Neighborhood Civic PAC

Willie Singletary Trying to Exchange Favors for Contributions

2007-08-08T16:48:00.000-04:00

http://youtube.com/watch?v=g32KtX3HU28

This is the Democrat Nominee for traffic court - cross over in the election and support one of the Republicans - We support Scott Cummings, but anyone is better than Willie Singletary.
He had thousands of dollars in traffic tix, a suspended license till 2011 and bench warrant out for his arrest. He also has number one ballot position on the Democrat side for the coming November General Election.

In this snippet after asking for money for his campaign, he states, "Y'all gonna need me in traffic court."
He later says, "Y'all gonna need my hook up right?"

Vote No on Singletary!

Scott Cummings for Traffic Court

2007-05-03T10:55:00.000-04:00

With the May Primary less than two weeks away, it is time to look to a proven leader for Traffic Court. Scott is President of the Mayfair Civic Association and 15th Police District Advisory Council. He has long been active in the community and the city and will be a great addition to the bench.

Michael Nutter Can't Have It Both Ways

2006-10-06T07:35:00.000-04:00

Today on 1340-AM WHAT, the Voice of the African-American Community:

Mary Mason was talking about Michael Nutter calling for John Street to declare a State of Emergency in high crime areas throughout the city (this is something we agree with as we feel John Street has not done enough, if anything at all. Text Messages and curfew are not going to cut it). A caller called in and said the Michael should be careful calling people out because he is STILL USING HIS CITY ISSUED CELL PHONE FOR PERSONAL BUSINESS. Mary was trying to get to the bottom of this and then went on to say that she is not sure if he is still using it but she had the number and as a matter of fact Michael uses that number on Election Day when he was going about the ward on election day to handle ward business.

While we find it appalling that he is still using the cell phone after he resigned, it is even more appalling that he uses it for Democrat Ward Business. Michael Nutter can't have it both ways. One day he is a holier than thou, man of the people, uber-progressive and the next day he is a ward leader and riding the status quo.

While Michael has done some good things in Council, he has to decide which Michael Nutter is running for Mayor. One day he is lobbying on behalf of Carol Campbell to get an $80K contract from the Sheriff's office and the next day is he is asking Bob Brady not to endorse a candidate (read Carol Campbell) for his vacant seat (we believe that Michael did this to appease his new liberal base, all the while realizing that this was done for publicity).

Michael, where do you stand? Are you a ward leader, a member of the Democrat City Committee and a proponent of business as usual or are you man of the people, progressive, and outside the establishment? You are either one or the other, you can't have it both ways.

Ed Dixon's Letter on Brendan Boyle's Inconsistency in Yesterday's Northeast Times

2006-10-05T09:10:00.000-04:00

A little consistency

please, Brendan

While reading the recent media coverage regarding the state House rematch between Rep. George Kenney and Brendan Boyle, I find a recurring item quite amusing.
Brendan consistently challenges Rep. Kenney due to his vote in favor of the controversial state pay raise, but he fails to mention that his boss, state Sen. Mike Stack, took the raise after not voting for it.
Personally, I find the politics behind not voting for the raise but still accepting it a more offensive issue. The public has been heard, the raise revoked, and now Rep. Kenney has to defend his vote. But apparently, according to Brendan (and Stack), voting against the raise but reaping the rewards anyway is somehow acceptable?
Although I disagree with the subject raise and how it was conducted, at least Rep. Kenney is holding himself accountable due to his vote. And as a result of the aforementioned, Boyle continues to spin the issue in his favor despite his boss’ acceptance of the same monetary benefit.
Since both parties accepted the raise, both are equally liable. Voting "for" or "against," in this particular instance, is effectively irrelevant.
Please let the hypocrisy rest.
Ed Dixon
Bustleton resident, member of Neighborhood Civic PAC

Daily News: "Cummings Continues to Climb"

2006-10-03T08:24:00.000-04:00

Dan Gross
Cummings continues to climb

Mayfair Civic Association President Scott Cummings is gaining some support in his bid for the late David Cohen's at-large City Council seat. The Republican candidate met Sen. Rick Santorum for breakfast at the Mayfair Diner Sunday morning before they attended church together at St. Matthew's, on Cottman Avenue.
They later joined Sen. Arlen Specter over at North Philly's Bright Hope Baptist Church.

ACORN Turns in over 3000 Bad Voter Registrations to Philly City Commissioners

2006-10-03T08:15:00.000-04:00

Allegations Trip Up Voting Rights Group
Voter Fraud Allegations Still Tripping Up Voting Rights Group Weeks Before Election

Oct 2, 2006 (AP)— An advocacy group that registered more than a million voters two years ago is facing new allegations of voter fraud and sloppy work just weeks before crucial midterm elections.
Philadelphia's municipal voter registration office has rejected about 3,000 cards submitted by ACORN the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now since April because of missing information or invalid addresses...

10/3/06 A Party On The Precipice

2006-10-03T08:02:00.000-04:00

The Republican Party in Philadelphia is at risk of being demoted from concerned bystander to rounding error unless concerted action is taken to revive it as a viable alternative to Democrat one-party rule.
Over the past 12 years (from November 1994 to September 2006), the Republican Party has suffered a net loss of more than 28,000 registered voters [187,276 to 159,116] despite the addition of nearly 200,000 total voters to the voter rolls [799,470 to 994,884]. It now accounts for only 16 percent of registered voters in Philadelphia County. Surprisingly, the Democratic Party has been unable to directly capitalize on this decline, having held steady at approximately 75 percent of the registered electorate [581,189 to 746,596 or 73 percent to 75 percent]. The beneficiary? The number of voters registered as "Other" has tripled over this same period to nearly 10 percent; an increase of nearly 60,000 voters [31,005 to 89,172].
While maximizing voter participation regardless of party in elections is always a commendable goal, non-aligned voters as a whole agree on no platform and, therefore, can provide no organized counterbalance to absolute power absolutely corrupting City Hall.
This 12-year period is also important because it covers the time since the National Voter Registration Act, also known as the "Motor Voter Act," has been in effect in Pennsylvania. Republicans may blame "Motor Voter" for packing the voter rolls with more phantoms than Eastern State Penitentiary on Halloween, but it is not to blame for the net decline in Republican Party registration.
Though it is no secret that "Motor Voter" has done great harm to the maintenance of accurate and current voter registration lists due to onerous and expensive requirements that must be met before removing even the demonstrably deceased and fraudulently fictitious from the voter rolls, neither it nor the much talked about Democratic National Committee's grassroots party-building efforts have apparently resulted in any noteworthy increase in the percentage of Philadelphians registered Democrat. If there is a silver lining for Republicans, this is it.
The decline of the Republican Party, however, should be of concern to all Philadelphians, regardless of one's positions on national-level foreign or domestic policy. The same assumption supposedly motivating voters to divide power in Washington, D.C., is theoretically no less applicable to our own city. It is the responsibility of the Republican Party to offer a viable alternative, rather than serving as a wholesale supplier of sacrificial lambs, or a platform for disaffected Democrats to make an end-run for higher office when they find their way blocked by other Democrats.
So what is to be done? Three things: First, learn to love the political machine and use it before it rusts solid. Unless you can think of a better way to turn out the vote block by block, division by division and ward by ward election after election, start by filling those vacant committee person spots with likeminded friends and neighbors. If you are reading this and live in a division where a vacancy currently exists, approach your ward leader and volunteer to fill the spot. Remember, committee persons choose the ward leader, not the other way around. Second, appeal to party leadership to agree on a consensus-driven platform for our Party. I know what I believe, but I'll be damned if I can tell you what the Philadelphia Republican Party's position is on a host of concrete and timely issues. Republicans need to be more than "not Democrats." And third, support those who are keeping our Party alive and doing our work for us. Joe DeFelice, for example, is a veritable Atlas carrying the Philadelphia Republican Party on his shoulders. Contact Joe at electionday@pagop.org and find out how you can help share the load.
The sooner Republicans get this message across to their fellow Philadelphians, the sooner Philadelphians will realize that they need the Republican Party as much as the Republican Party needs them.
Albert Schmidt, Ph.D., is a former Senior Analyst for the United States Government Accountability Office. He is currently a Republican Committeeman in Fairmount.

Inquirer: "Vote Republican" in Special Election; Scott Cummings, Most promising

2006-10-02T09:45:00.000-04:00

Editorial Your Ward Leaders Know Best

A most undemocratic party

Decades of dominance have made the Democratic Party in Philadelphia fat and arrogant.
This fall would be a good time for voters to send the city's complacent and corruptible power structure a little message.

The Democrats' method of choosing their three candidates for City Council recently highlights the problem. As the only real political power in town, Democrats had an obligation to city residents to conduct an open process to pick party nominees for this special election to fill three vacant seats.

The party's leaders know full well that their candidates will win in November, so the Democrats' nominating process was the only chance for the people to have a say.

Instead, U.S. Rep. Bob Brady, the city's party boss, and his lieutenants went back to their tired playbook. In a closed meeting of Democratic ward leaders, they anointed three candidates - Carol Campbell, Daniel Savage and William Greenlee. All three are ward leaders.

When a political system lacks a viable opposition party, corruption becomes more likely. Perhaps a stronger city Republican Party could have acted as a check against the pay-to-play abuses that have so weakened the Street administration. Instead, hampered by its national party's bad behavior and its long history as a complacent junior partner in City Hall patronage, the city GOP is a weakling.

Voters sick of corruption and arrogance need to take steps to shake up the city's Democratic cliques.

Here's one possible way: Vote Republican in this year's Council elections, simply as a protest against the fossilized status quo.

The Republican candidates are Scott Cummings, Mayfair Civic Association president; Joseph Gembala III, a lawyer; and Gary Grisafi, a former candidate for the state house.
Full disclosure time: The GOP chose its candidates in the same undesirable fashion - a meeting of its ward leaders. But given the Republicans' long history of futility in city races, the Democrats' selection process held bigger implications for the future of city government.

The Democrats' nomination of Campbell is the most troubling. A longtime ward leader from West Philadelphia, Campbell has repeatedly demonstrated arrogance and bad campaign-finance habits.

In 2003, Campbell finished a year of probation for breaking state campaign-finance law, an offense for which she paid a $1,250 fine. Now she is again facing questions about how a political action committee she founded, Genesis IV, spent its cash. The PAC has ignored inquiries from the state Bureau of Elections since Jan. 31.

Last week, she paid a $1,700 fine to the city Board of Elections regarding late campaign-finance filings from her City Council race in 1999. Campbell's belated attempts to clean up her record should fool no one. If she hadn't done so, she would be ineligible to be sworn into Council.

These are the actions of someone who is paying attention to the law only because she sees the brass ring within her grasp. She has already inquired where she will sit in the Council chamber as representative of the Fourth District. Michael Nutter resigned the seat to run for mayor.

Savage, leader of the 23rd Ward, is running for the seat vacated by Democratic Councilman Rick Mariano, who is serving a 61/2-year sentence in federal prison for corruption and fraud. Greenlee is hoping to win the at-large seat of his longtime boss, the late Councilman David Cohen.

The Republican candidates know they face long odds. The most promising is Cummings, who leads one of the city's largest civic groups. A father of three, Cummings, 44, has a laudable record of trying to improve his community.

Gembala is an attorney and part-time law professor who has waged uphill battles before, for Common Pleas Court judge and city controller. Grisafi, a professional musician who lost two bids for the state House, appears to be the least attractive of the GOP candidates.

It would be a political miracle for any one of these Republicans to win the special election, and they know it. In all likelihood, the city's Democratic machine will again prevail.

But voters who are tired of the way Democratic leaders have taken them for granted should strongly consider voting for Republican Council candidates - as a wake-up call to leaders who regard democratic process as their personal plaything.

Next year, when the entire Council is up for election, let's see some real, open competition in the Democratic primaries, particularly in the Council districts where this fall's insider trading occurred.

"SHAME OF A CITY" TONIGHT

2006-09-28T08:07:00.000-04:00

The Philly YRs , the Neighborhood Civic PAC, the Evening Bulletin and several Philadelphia area Republican Candidates are screening Tigre Hill's acclaimed "The Shame of a City". This film shows the Democrat Party undermine our chance to take back City Hall via deceit and spin. We will also be using this event to raise money for several Philadelphia area Republican Candidates, including Bob Mannino, Tom Rolland, Troy Bouie, Lindsay Doering, Ron Holt and Scott Cummings. Date: Tomorrow September 28th 2006Time: 7PM Doors Open at 6PMLocation: International House at U Penn 37th and Chestnut StPrice: $15 but feel free to give more to help the candidates. You will hear from Director Tigre Hill as well as our Republican Candidates. Bring literature if you have it. Other campaigns will be there to provide literature as well. After the event feel free to join others at the New Deck Tavern. For more information email mara@philadelphiayr.com

Scott Cummings for City Council

2006-09-11T17:21:00.000-04:00

Scott Cummings is running for the City Council At-Large Seat that was vacated by David Cohen. Hee will most likely face Bill Greenlee in the Special Election held the same day as the General Election.http://www.neighborhoodcivicpac.com/

GOP Looking For A Few Good Mayoral Candidates

2006-08-30T07:53:00.000-04:00

Philadelphia - Political talk fills the papers and airwaves in the City of Brotherly Love these days.
Most of the yowling and yammering at the moment has to do with the growing confidence the Democrats are feeling in the statewide elections coming in November.
While the bright hope lies with Republican Senator Rick Santorum rapidly closing the once double-digit lead of his Democratic challenger, Pennsylvania Treasurer Bob Casey, down to low single digits, most of the other Republican incumbents in this area are finding themselves in the fight of their political lives.
The general election in the fall will be followed by an important city primary election in spring. In most cases, in most races, it will be without doubt the winner of the May Democratic primary who will win the city office in the fall general election.
The last Republican Mayor in Philadelphia, Bernard Samuel, was first elected in 1944 and served until 1952. Democrats have been elected to that office ever since.
When City Council had a full body of 17 members serving in 2005, 14 members were Democrats. Three members, all Democrats, are now gone from their offices. When special elections are held in November three more Democrats are virtually guaranteed election, though Republicans note disgraced City Councilman Rick Mariano's seat was Republican before he came along.
For most observers' money, if the council numbers change at all next year it would likely change in the Democrats' favor not the Republicans.
Talks with Republican leadership in the city confirm the difficulty of finding Republicans willing to run for office in Philadelphia. The effort required to even get on the ballot, never mind winning, is so enormous most people who even think about running Republican are intimidated and give up the idea.
Local Republican Party Counsel Michael Meehan claims there are "two or three people" who have spoken with him about running as GOP candidates for mayor.
When talking with GOP ward leaders, a few Republican names come up as "interested" in the mayoral race. They include Councilman Frank Rizzo, Al Taubenberger, President of the Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and the Republican candidate for City Controller in 2005 Hillel Levinson.
There is also some talk of the Republican Party cross-endorsing Democratic Congressman and Democratic Party Chairman Bob Brady if he throws his hat in the mayoral ring.
Meehan says Rizzo has told him he has "some interest" in running.
Many Republicans hope that when the crowded field in the Democratic primary race shakes out one of the candidates on that side will come over and run Republican in the general election in November 2007.
That's what Rizzo's father, Frank Rizzo Sr., did a decade ago.J
oe DeFelice is an attorney from Mayfair who worked on John Perzel's campaign.DeFelice wants to see the apparent Democratic Mayoral hopeful and powerful union leader John Dougherty run for Mayor on the Republican ticket:"I'm open to other candidates, but Dougherty believes in family values and supports our neighborhoods," DeFelice asserts. "He often says that 'The only way to not forget where you come from is not to leave.' And I strongly believe in that too. I want my kids and my kids' kids to able to grow up and live here."
Meehan is more enthused about Republican chances in the at-large council seats where, he says, at least "eight to 12 people" have spoken to him about running for the seat.
Meehan also notes there is some talk about 6th District Councilwoman Joan Krajewski retiring. He believes if that happens the Republicans could run a strong candidate in that area.
Meehan acknowledges the difficulty of running Republican in City Council elections in most of the city. In many cases just getting enough signatures on the nominating petition to get on the ballot can be a huge challenge."In some districts there are only 3,000 registered Republicans," Meehan remarked. "We understand the plight of some of these candidates."
David C. Thomsen is the Republican Chairman in the 15th Ward. This past year he assisted in an effort to get Temple graduate David Corbett on the ballot to run against Frank Oliver in the 195th legislative district. The campaign came close to getting 300 signatures, but wasn't near enough."
Third parties get three or four months to gather signatures. We only get three weeks." Thomsen complained.
David Oh is the GOP Ward Leader in the 3rd Ward and a former candidate for City Council at-large in 2003. He's a former Assistant District Attorney and served in the U.S. Army Special Forces. He's now an employment attorney in his own law practice.
Oh is currently exploring another run for an at-large seat in 2007.
"I find that the barrier that arises is that people don't want to do this because they feel that everything is against them," he mused. "You've really got to want to run. You have to have a reason to run, present yourself, and be sincere about it."
I believe this would be a better city if people wouldn't discount the Republican Party. It would be a good city if there was strong competition between the parties."
Matt Wolfe is a Republican ward leader in University City and a Center City attorney.
He's optimistic about a 150 percent increase in Republican registrations in his 27th ward and attributes it to having better ward leaders in place.Still, he admits, "We are hopeful we will get enough signatures to run somebody against [Councilwoman] Jannie Blackwell. If we do run somebody it will be difficult to win."
Wolfe acknowledges getting enough signatures just to get on a the ballot is difficult, and a Republican candidate for mayor is likely going to be merely an exercise in party building next year - unless somebody decides to switch parties."
All too often," Wolfe notes, "days before circulating the nominating petition we are sitting around wondering who we are getting to run. That's not a formula for success. Citywide there will be no problem getting anyone to run for City Council-at-large. A few will be disappointed when they don't get the endorsement."
The problems, of course, are not all at the top.
DeFelice works for the Pennsylvania Republican Party in Philadelphia helping ward leaders staff election boards.
He notes, "Most people don't care. There are not enough Republicans in certain areas. And the few who are around you have to get them to want to work, but you need ten signatures to get on the ballot and sometimes there are not even ten Republicans in the division. The only way to get through is to have a big presence in the city and [Republican Gubernatorial Candidate and Hall of Fame football player] Lynn Swann is the man who's going to do it. He's already helping us reach areas we normally wouldn't be able to reach.
DeFelice's message for Philadelphians: "Give us a chance and we'll give you a choice. We won't let the Democrats take your neighborhoods for granted."

Philadelphia Police to Enforce Curfew in Mayfair

2006-08-12T10:47:00.000-04:00

PHILADELPHIA POLICE TO ENFORCE CURFEW IN MAYFAIR

In response to several incidents over the last few weeks, please be advised that The Philadelphia Police Department has been requested to strictly enforce the curfew laws in and around Mayfair. Philadelphia Police Department’s new captain of The 15th District Frank Bachmeyer has meet with members of The Mayfair Civic Association, Mayfair Community Development Corporation and Mayfair Townwatch as well as many neighbors concerning crime and the quality of life issues. The overwhelming response from the neighborhood was enforcing the curfews laws in Mayfair. Captain Bachmeyer agreed with the community leaders and has a special team of officers assigned to the Mayfair area to strictly enforce the curfew laws. You will also notice an increased police presence in the Mayfair area.
Any person age 17 and under must be off the streets by 10:30 pm Sunday through Thursday and 12:00 midnight Friday and Saturday. We are asking that the parents of children 17 and under assist your community as well as The Philadelphia Police department in assuring your children are home and under your guidance according to the above listed times. We hope to continue this program until Labor Day and the start of the new school year . This new program will assist in keeping Mayfair a great place to live and work as well as keeping a high standard of the quality of life. Thank you for your continued supported of Philadelphia’s greatest neighborhood, Mayfair.

Sincerely,

Scott Cummings Reese Hardy Art Dettra
President President President
Mayfair Civic Association Mayfair CDC Mayfair Townwatch

Mayor Rizzo?

2006-08-10T13:54:00.000-04:00

Mayor Rizzo?
Meanwhile, a Republican with great name recognition and popularity among Democrats is still mulling a mayoral run. City Councilman at-large Frank Rizzo Jr. said he is talking to advisors and will make a decision shortly. Rizzo, the son of the popular mayor, was first elected in 1995 after garnering more votes than incumbent GOP Councilwoman Joan Specter. His office is known for its constituent services. "It would be difficult to jump into a Democratic field," said Rizzo. "I would have to study the logistics and work out a strategy. If I ran as Republican, I know that Mike Meehan would endorse me."
Meehan said he would look favorably on any elected Republican official that wanted to run for mayor but had not yet had the discussion with Rizzo. "I think he may have some more work he wants to do in City Council," he said.
Still, Rizzo theorizes that he would do well in a crowded Democratic-primary field and would ask his Republi-can supporters to register Democratic for the primary if he ran in that party. "I do very well in the African-American community," he stated. "I would do better than Michael Nutter and Dwight Evans in the primary."
He may be right: In a recent poll conducted for a client of the firm Ceisler Jubelirer, Rizzo polled the highest. Larry Ceisler said he could not reveal the client or the poll questions, but the poll dealt with rating various elected officials in the city.
Speaking of Ceisler Jubelirer, congrats to firm co-principal Jeff Jubelirer and his wife, Tracey, on the birth of daughter Sofie Brett.

A Two-Party Town by '08?

2006-08-10T13:52:00.000-04:00

A Two-Party Town by '08
by Mary F. Patel
Kevin Kelly is on a mission. In an op-ed in last week's Inquirer, Kelly, chairman of the Philadelphia Federation of Young Republicans, slammed the local GOP party for laying down on the job. "If the city's Republican Party hopes to rise from the ashes of mediocrity, it better get into the business of providing the best ideas on each and every topic, and then finding a vehicle for delivering those ideas," wrote Kelly.
As a spin-off, he then organized the Philadelphia Leadership Project, a gathering of civic-minded young people that aims to change the incestuous climate of City Hall deal-making. Their first meeting was scheduled for Aug. 9 at a large cocktail party at the Vesper boathouse. Kelly, an Air Force Reserve fighter pilot who returned a few months ago from Iraq, planned to outline his frustrations with the city.
"We need poll watchers. There is not enough of a Republican presence and there is voter fraud where people vote multiple times," he said during a recent interview. "We live in a great city that is run by a machine that hands out patronage jobs. There are no ideas and no vision. We could be a first-class city, but we're not because of bad leadership."
Kelly added that the Republicans are part of the problem because they accept the status quo as long as they get jobs. "I want to start on the grassroots level and get people involved," he said. "Sunlight is the best antiseptic."
While Republicans in the city have not held power for 50 years, there are some out there. GOP City Committee General Counsel Michael Meehan, whose grandfather Austin, and father, Billy, held the reins of power when the Republicans had control, disagrees with Kelly's assessment that Republicans are shadow Democrats.
"Kevin should be recruiting committee people and candidates rather than hosting wine-and-cheese parties," said Michael Meehan during an interview from his office at Wolf Block. "The Republican Party is not going to gain power overnight. It takes time — and that time will come."
Meehan said the perception that he works with U.S. Rep. and Democratic Party Chairman Bob Brady is correct; the two of them get along and often cooperate. "I will work with anyone to move this city forward," Meehan explained.
Meehan agreed that voter fraud has been, and could again be, a problem since it is not required to show ID when voters appear at the polls. "This is one issue that the far right and far left agree on," he said.
The theory that maintains local Democrats and Republicans are similar may not be too far off and Meehan pointed out that many well-known Democrats were once Republicans.
"Frank DiCicco, Joan Krajewski, Russell Nigro and Jonathan Saidel were all Republicans once," said Meehan.

Back Channels | How to lose the hangdog attitude

2006-08-04T09:53:00.000-04:00

Commentary Philadelphia Republicans
Back Channels How to lose the hangdog attitude
By Kevin Ferris
Commentary Page Editor
Believe it or not, there are Republicans in Philadelphia who would like to try to win elections. Not just show up for the annual ballot-box slaughter. Actually compete for votes. Offer alternatives on issues. Give Philadelphians a choice of policies when it comes to solving the city's problems.
Some Republican candidates have done that, most notably Sam Katz in his tries for mayor. But too often, such campaigns are built around one candidate, and when that race is finished, it seems the party is, too. The momentum dies. The GOP gets put up on a shelf, to be dusted off in two or four years to back the next elephant-riding Don Quixote.
Some would like to change that dynamic.
In January, 400 to 500 people turned out for a candidate night sponsored by the Philadelphia Federation of Young Republicans at the Crystal Tea Room in Center City. When the first candidate rose to speak, the fire alarm sounded, clearing much of the room. Fortunately, there was no fire, fueling speculation that it was really a "GOP alarm" - that is, if 500 Republicans gather that close to City Hall, it trips a switch somewhere that puts Democrats on full alert.
Since then, some of the folks at the candidate night have stayed in touch, by phone, e-mail or in person. They've been asked what they think of next year's mayoral election. Specifically, what does the city GOP need to do to get in the game? So far, the media attention is going to six or seven Democrats who are running or considering a run. The Republican candidate-development plan seems to be to hope for one of the other party's rejects, like electricians' union leader John J. Dougherty.
One result of those conversations is today's impassioned commentary by Kevin Kelly, who organized the Crystal Tea Room event. He's not speaking for his group, but he's not alone in his concerns.
To start, considering recent events in the city, some Republicans have recently said they couldn't believe all the talk of Democrats' having a lock on winning again next year.
Joseph M. McColgan of the Northeast says, "When a corruption scandal within the walls of City Hall is firing on all cylinders, and you hear nothing from any Republican in the City of Philadelphia, that is not a good thing."
Robert S. Nix of Fox Chase agrees: "The local Republican Party is not yet taking full advantage of the opportunities presenting themselves through widespread disgust and distrust of longtime local Democratic Party control... . The Republican Party leadership is simply too resistant to change and too comfortable with the role of being the minority party."
McColgan says, "Questioning our leaders is the most important thing... . I'm not saying challenge the ward or committee structure or be disrespectful or obnoxious. But I am saying challenge them to do better, to think differently, and to accept that change is good and should not be perceived as a threat."
Republicans agree that there is no shortage of issues to campaign on. Nix says the priorities have to be crime and youth violence. McColgan has those on his list, but also stresses education, business development, job creation, lower taxes, and restructuring city government. ("Do we really need seven at-large Council seats?" he asks.)
Mara Toukatly of Fairmount says the party needs specific policy proposals that reject the a la carte approach to tackling issues. For example, she suggests a "full-blown initiative" that puts education, business, jobs and taxes on a continuum. First, she wants a push for a majority of city high school graduates to attend college, a local college. She believes businesses would be drawn to that local talent - if there's a sensible tax structure in place - and would create jobs that would keep local grads local. After some work experience, she wants those young people starting their own businesses - and then hiring local grads.
Local Republicans also emphasize finding, mentoring and training people to go out and compete - for mayor and other offices as well.
Jeff Jubelirer of Center City says: "The Republican Party needs to take baby steps. We need to convert a Democrat with moderate points of view who will show Philadelphians that the world isn't going to fall down because they vote Republican. Electing a mayor would be wonderful, a home run, better than we could hope for. But if we can't get mayor, why not go for Council districts or state representative?"
Of course, this is partisan talk, spoken by people who want to see one party replace another in City Hall. But these people are also Philadelphians who want to see their city succeed, who believe an election should involve more than a backroom deal that allows a mayor and a congressman to switch jobs.
As McColgan says, "It boils down to one thing: leadership, not only from the party in power, but from the party not in power - the desire to do good, not for yourself or your friends, but for the people."
Contact Commentary Page editor Kevin Ferris at kf@phillynews.com or 215-854-5801.

The party needs to stop thinking it can never win

2006-08-04T09:52:00.000-04:00

Commentary Philadelphia Republicans
The party needs to stop thinking it can never win
By Kevin Kelly
My high school football coach would always tell us, "Gentlemen, losing is a habit." With those sage words in mind, look at the inability of the Philadelphia Republican Party to win a mayoral election over the last half-century and you'll quickly realize that we are, indeed, in the habit of losing.
The last time we were able to hang the banner of victory was in 1947, when Bernard Samuel defeated Democrat Richardson Dilworth, 413,091 votes to 321,469. Since then, city Republicans have been on a losing streak that makes our beloved Eagles look like the New York Yankees (sorry about mixing sports leagues in my metaphor).
Excuses abound: Democratic registration outnumbers Republican 4 to 1; Philly is a union town and always will be; a Republican mayoral candidate could never get the black vote. But here's one I've never heard: We can't win because the Democratic leadership in our city is just too good, too outstanding, too competent.
Until someone convinces me that our city, the birthplace of the greatest nation in history, is being governed in a fashion that would please our Founding Fathers, I refuse to believe that a change in leadership is impossible.
I always liken Philadelphia voters to frogs. If you put a frog in a pot of boiling water, he'll leap right out. But if you put a frog in a pot of cool water and slowly turn up the heat, he'll stay there until he boils to death. Philly voters have been slowly boiling in a tub of systemic corruption, patronage, pay-to-play, cronyism, fiscal mismanagement, intolerably high crime, poorly performing schools, and business-killing taxes. Grab a voter from somewhere else and plop him into today's political cauldron. He'd scream bloody murder and jump right out. Not us. We let our political class keep us on slow burn.
On the heels of one of the city's biggest corruption scandals, what name springs to mind as the voice of the loyal opposition?
Who within the GOP is always there with an alternative vision, a better way of doing business?
Who is constantly on watch, pointing out unethical behavior that damages the public good?
When indictments are handed down or when the mayor's brother gets another city contract, what Republican does Channel 6 push a microphone in front of for a retort?
The answer to all of the above is - drum roll, please - I have no idea either! For as long as I can remember, our party has utterly failed to engage Democrats over ideas that would make Philadelphia a first-class city again.
This failure to create an alternative vision - on taxes, budgeting, schools, crime, quality of life, arts funding, social programs, and even something as simple as timing the lights to alleviate traffic jams, for goodness sake - is why every four years we look like Gerry Cooney squaring off against the young Mike Tyson. At the very least, we should learn from our losses and define how we are different from the Democrats, constantly reminding Philadelphians that there is a real and tangible substitute for the political machine that stands for high taxes, low standards, and dubious ethics.
Instead, we continue business as usual. We run a candidate, he gets shellacked and vanishes. Three and a half years later we scramble for a candidate as if we didn't realize there'd be another election.
How about a vision?
A farm team that cultivates prospective leaders?
A deep bench that we can go to when, say, a City Council seat is vacated due to a corruption conviction or when someone leaves for a stab at higher office?
Just as chance favors the prepared mind, it also favors the prepared political party. Quite simply, we have been consistently and woefully unprepared.
I realize there are many good people on both sides of an issue. There are not, however, necessarily good ideas on both sides of an issue. If the city's Republican Party hopes to rise from the ashes of mediocrity, it better get into the business of providing the best ideas on each and every topic, and then finding a vehicle for delivering those ideas. Only a real and substantial shift in our strategy and message will produce meaningful results. It will not be an easy change to make, but hard work spotlights the character of people: Some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all.
In order to be walked on, you have to be lying down. Our party has been lying down for far too long, and many Republicans are tired of it. They want to see a game plan with clear, measurable and achievable objectives. They want to be valued and contributing members of that plan. They want a party that is a force for change in the city we all love, a city that is hungry for and deserving of truly outstanding leadership. Please don't tell me that game plan is the status quo.
Talking Politics
Kevin Kelly will discuss city politics on
"The Michael Smerconish Morning Show" live today at 6:30 a.m. on WPHT-AM (1210). A podcast of the interview will be available later at www.thebigtalker1210.com.
Kevin Kelly (grace522@comcast.net) is chairman of the Philadelphia Federation of Young Republicans, but the views expressed are his, not the organization's.

The Philadelphia Leadership Project's Boathouse Bash

2006-08-04T09:47:00.000-04:00

Host: The Philadelphia Leadership Project PAC
Location: Vesper BoathouseKelly Drive, Philadelphia, PA
When: Wednesday, August 9, 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Join the Philadelphia Leadership Project for our first annual Boathouse Bash with Special Guest Jim Matthews, Candidate for Lt Governor Food, Open Bar and Entertainment
$25 per personplease make checks payable to PLP PAC

Mayfair Civic purchases blighted piece of property

2006-07-06T17:48:00.000-04:00

The Mayfair Civic Association has acquired a piece of ground long considered a blight on the neighborhood.The property is located at 7315-33 Crispin St. It sits in the rear driveway of homes on the 3400 blocks of Cottman and Ryan avenues.The ground is rectangular and measures 24,896 square feet. It was purchased many years ago by a man to give his daughter a safe place to play.The site continued to be owned by the family long after they moved. It deteriorated with high weeds and dead trees and attracted drug users, hookers, late-night partyers and bums.Scott Cummings, president of the civic association, convinced the owner — the daughter, now living in New Jersey — to sell the property for $10. Cummings plans to form a seven-member committee to monitor the site.The committee will consist of four members appointed by the civic association and three homeowners. Mary McCann, a Cottman Avenue resident, will chair the committee.Neighbors who want to belong to the committee will pay a yearly membership fee. They will be able to park on the lot and use it for parties. Cars belonging to non-members will be towed.Cummings said the committee will remove some trees and keep others. The grassy lot will be converted to blacktop. There will be plenty of lighting, and a surveillance camera will be installed to discourage illegal activity.A flagpole will be erected, and memorials will be created for the man who owned the property and to Gary Skerski, the slain 15th Police District community relations officer who chased dumpers on the site.Pennsylvania House Speaker John Perzel (R-172nd dist.) has agreed to fund fencing for a portion of the ground that will house benches and a shed for maintenance equipment.Other sponsors for the renovation are the Mayfair Community Development Corporation, Republic First Bank, Nazareth Hospital, Pat’s Shamrock Sports Bar and Jamz Roller Skating Center. Potential sponsors are welcome to contact the group at mayfaircivic2003@aol.comCummings and McCann hope to have much of the work done by the fall. They believe that the renovated property will be more pleasing for current and future residents of Cottman and Ryan avenues and Crispin Street.On a related note, Diamond Construction has agreed to donate its services to pave the rear driveways behind the 3400 blocks of Cottman and Ryan avenues and the 7300 block of Crispin St. The driveways are in deplorable condition. ••

One gun a month bill is far from the answer (Ed Dixon's Letter)

2006-06-23T11:10:00.000-04:00

One gun a month bill
is far from the answer
State Rep. Dennis O’Brien, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, has not allowed a vote on "one gun a month" legislation simply because the votes are non-existent.How can he convince his colleagues in the House chamber of a state that has been described by political pundits as "Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Alabama in-between" that there is a necessity to pass said legislation?The vast majority of the state is not experiencing Philadelphia’s violence epidemic; therefore, voting for the subject legislation would provide more rural constituents a disservice by impeding on their Second Amendment rights. However, let us assume that Rep. O’Brien could secure the votes needed to pass the "one gun a month" legislation. Although it would create a more complicated environment for straw purchasers from an administrative perspective, eventually, the same amount of guns would surface on the street. Crime lords, drug dealers, etc. would formulate a new method of accumulating weapons via identifying sellers in alternate states and accumulating more straw purchasers statewide. Many city officials, as well as the Northeast Times May 18 editorial, are citing guns as the core problem in the city’s recent increase in homicides, but such a mindset is so shallow and shortsighted. The issue is not guns; it’s the culture behind those utilizing guns. Take away guns and the issue could be an increase in homicides due to stabbings. Take away knives and the cause could be an increase in baseball bat beatings.Only through education will individuals realize that there are alternatives to careers in crime. And for those who defer to such a life, a larger, better-equipped police force as well as a more stringent legislative and judicial environment is the answer. Ed DixonBustletonNote: Mr. Dixon is a member of the Neighborhood Civic PAC, a medium for like-minded Philadelphia residents to carry out public service initiatives. For information, call 215-292-3926 or e-mail neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com

Doc Inching Closer to GOP?

2006-06-17T11:03:00.000-04:00

With John Dougherty no longer a member of Democratic City Committee Leadership, and Bob Brady pandering to the likes of Carol Campbell, is it inevitable that John will become a Republican? The Evening Bulletin thinks so:

Lamp Lighter

Is
John Dougherty feeling out Philadelphia Republicans about running for
Mayor as a Republican? It is well known that Doc is looking to run for Mayor and
now that the Democratic door is closing and Bob Brady is asserting his
leadership in Philadelphia Democratic Establishment and excluding John
Dougherty, the only realistic other possibility is the Republican
party.

Ward Fights Accross the City

2006-06-07T07:55:00.000-04:00

Ward-leader dramas play out
It was an evening of arguments and police presence, though no beatings or arrests, as Democrats picked 69 leaders.

Emilio Vazquez lost his second race in as many weeks. He was with the establishment as was shown in his race for Bill Reiger's Old seat where he was supported by several Democratic Ward Leaders, including Dan Savage, Marge Tartaglione and Carlos Matos. Does Bob Brady feel that the Democratic Party is dead? No, but it may have been resurrected with new people assuming roles once held by the old guard.
"

Nobody got beat up and nobody got locked up," said U.S. Rep. Robert Brady,
chairman of the Democratic City Committee. "People say that the Democratic Party
is dead, but I say it's alive and kickin'."
Still, party leaders now have to
sort through several complaints of unfairness from losers in the fights, Brady
said.

One complaint seemed sure to come from the 43d, where acting leader Tom Logan
defeated Emilio Vazquez, 28-17. Before the meeting, men and women were screaming
at one another over who could be admitted to the room to vote.
"They don't
have certificates!" a Vazquez supporter yelled, arguing that Logan was packing
the room with bogus committee members not elected in the May 16 primary.

They are even denying their own people the right to vote.

"They disenfranchised our committee people," Vazquez said, looking at a tally
sheet on the sidewalk outside.
"They say your vote counts - not in there,"
said Kimberly Lambert-Tores, who voted for Vazquez. "These are the same people
who've done nothing for the neighborhood."

In other areas, democracy was alive and kicking as well. Remember it is not the voters that decide an election, rather it is those that count that votes.

Former 33d Ward leader Donna Aument told Brady that she defeated incumbent
Candido Silva in a replay of their grudge match of four years ago.
But Silva
said, "I beat her by one vote," before declining further comment. "Let me enjoy
my victory with my family."

The same party that is alive and kicking saw one of their own, City Councilman Juan Ramos, go down in defeat.

Incumbent Helen "Lynn" Farrell won, 20-12, [against Ramos] despite heavy
lobbying by Ramos and fellow Council members.

In a battle that is going to help shape next years 6th Councilmanic District race.

In Mayfair's 55th Ward,lawyer Robert Delavella won a battle that centered on
nepotism and accusations that his opponent was the pawn of State Rep. Michael
McGeehan. Delavella bested Michael Lowry, the son of retiring ward leader
Vincent Lowry, 34-22.

Rival Democrats in Philadelphia charge intimidation, harassment, and improper assistance being provided to voters in the May Primary. One side also cl

2006-06-01T10:57:00.000-04:00

Payton is winner in the 179th - for now
The political newcomer has won the Pa. House seat. But the party-endorsed write-in candidate says he will fight.
By Thomas Fitzgerald
Inquirer Staff Writer

Round one in The Outsider vs. The Machine goes to Tony Payton Jr., by 19 votes.

But the bout promises to continue in court.

Completing a count of the ballots cast two weeks ago in the Democratic primary for the 179th State House District, the Philadelphia city commissioners declared yesterday that Payton had withstood the extraordinary write-in campaign waged by party power brokers on behalf of their choice, Emilio Vazquez.

The tally was 962 votes for Payton to 943 votes for Vazquez, following a painstaking review of paper tapes taken from electronic voting machines as well as provisional and absentee ballots.

Vazquez's lawyer immediately vowed to appeal the city commissioners' count in Common Pleas Court, arguing that some votes for his client were improperly disallowed. The campaign has until Monday to ask for court review.

"I'll take it," a relieved Payton, 25, said of his narrow victory. "I'm eager to serve the people and will be glad to put this behind us. At the end of the day, 962 people voted for change."

Payton was the only qualified Democrat on the primary ballot in the North Philadelphia district. The courts had disqualified Vazquez for failing to list his employer, the Philadelphia Parking Authority, on an ethics disclosure form required with nominating petitions.

Much of the city Democratic establishment snubbed Payton, endorsing Vazquez. Powerful Democrats, led by 62d Ward leader Margaret Tartaglione and her son-in-law, 19th Ward leader Carlos Matos, ran a write-in campaign for Vazquez, complete with rubber stamps to make it easier for voters to mark their ballots.

"It's not over," Vazquez said, adding that he would keep working in the community regardless of how the courts decide.

"I'm a hands-on guy. I'm not going to stop, whether I'm in or not," he said.

Vazquez, 38, is known for community activism, especially projects to remove graffiti and spruce up vacant lots. He ran in the Democratic primary for the state House seat two years ago, but finished fourth in a field of four.

This time, however, the unusual write-in campaign appeared successful; after election night, the category "write-in" led Payton.

But Vazquez's total shrank under the scrutiny of several days of commissioners hearings. It became apparent that, in some cases, the write-in button was pushed but no name was filled in, or voters' stamp marks were illegible. In addition, some votes that appeared to be for Vazquez were disallowed because they were stamped on the space provided for write-ins for other races, including Congress and ward committee seats.

A total of 212 Vazquez stamp marks were found in other spaces, but it is clear that the voters' intent was to vote for him for state representative, lawyer Ralph Teti argued.

"This is not a case of voters' remorse," Teti said. "Due to a variety of factors - machine malfunctions, wrong instructions - people wound up putting the stamp mark in the wrong place, negating their vote."

If the stray stamp marks had been counted, Vazquez would have won "in a walk," Teti said.

Both camps also have raised complaints of intimidation, harassment, and improper assistance being provided to voters, among other things.

The winner of the postelection battle will be the favorite in the fall general election against Republican Troy Bouie to replace 40-year incumbent Rep. William Rieger. The North Philadelphia district is overwhelmingly Democratic.

Vazquez also is about to enter another election - for Democratic leader of the 43d Ward, to be decided by ward committee members Monday night. The acting leader of the ward, Tom Logan, bucked top party leaders and supported Payton.

Philly Polling Locations, Senate Bill 999, Marian Tasco and PAVOTNGNIGHTMARE.COM

2006-05-10T07:35:00.000-04:00

We would like to call your attention to www.pavotingnightmare.com and you can see for yourself the polling place problem in Philadelphia. Nevertheless, Marian Tasco who has commented on this blog before and will be speaking this evening at the Committee of Seventy's "If These Wards Could Talk" seems to think that Senate Bill 999 will "repress" and "Deny" voters.
We guess she doesn't think that those Republicans voting in the 1ST WARD DEMOCRATIC HEADQUARTERS are disenfranchised or that those voting at 24th and Ellsworth in the Vacant Office with "DANGER KEEP OUT" plastered on the front door with broken windows aligning the second floor are repressed. How about, it is a safe idea to move a polling place like this. We can look at Tasco's 50th Ward where they vote in mostly public buildings this would be akin to moving another polling place into Finley Rec or Leeds School; where there are already multiple polling places. What is ironic about some of this is that Bok sits directly across the street and IN THE SAME DIVISION as the first Ward Democratic Headquarters.
Some complain about moving the polling place across the street or a block away into a builing; however, that may easier to walk then say up 14 steps into an inaccessible residence.
Any comments on this?

Some complain about moving the polling place across the street or a block away into a public building; however, that may easier to walk then say up 14 steps into an inaccessible residence.

Remember Officer Skerski

2006-05-10T06:56:00.000-04:00

Officer Skerski wasn't just a cop who reported to the neighborhoood for work and then went home. He became the neighborhood. He was at community meetings, church meetings etc. He cared aout the city as a whole and he will not be forgotten.

Scott Cummings, president of the Mayfair Civic Association, said the first e-mail in his in-box yesterday morning was from Skerski. The pair were thinking of a way to honor the crossing guards in their district.
"I don't think a guy like Gary can be replaced," Cummings said.
During one recent community meeting, Skerski could not stop praising two fellow officers for their arrest of a pair of gunmen, recalled John McCarthy, president of Mayfair Town Watch. He kept saying how brave the men had been, how they had willingly gone into a situation that they knew was dangerous without thinking twice. Because it was their job.
And then Monday night, Cummings said, Skerski did the same thing.
From todays Inquirer
"I think the man is an absolute hero," Cummings said.

Joan is running or she isn't

2006-05-08T06:54:00.000-04:00

Krajewski in after all?
She missed four months of work due to illness last year, and has enrolled in the city's retirement-incentive program. But despite widespread assumptions that City Councilwoman Joan L. Krajewski's seventh term would be her last, could the Northeast Philadelphia Democrat be thinking of running again after all?
That's the rumor making its way around City Hall. And Krajewski, 72, isn't exactly dispelling it, either.
"I really don't know," she said last week. "I'll tell you when I decide."
She was a bit more definitive, however, when it came to another part of the story: That her recent trip to Atlantic City with Council President Anna C. Verna had been an opportunity for Verna - who became president with Krajewski's support - to lobby against retirement.
"I don't need to go all the way to Atlantic City to have somebody put the arm on me," Krajewski said. "I like my poker." Verna did not return a call for comment.
- Michael Currie

Not exactly sure what this means but it seems that Joan is not sure whether she is going to run again

They shot down HB 1318, Here comes SB 999

2006-05-03T18:49:00.000-04:00

SB 999 recently passed the House 139-59...

AMENDING THE ACT OF JUNE 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, NO.320), ENTITLED <-- 7 "AN ACT CONCERNING ELECTIONS, INCLUDING GENERAL, MUNICIPAL, 8 SPECIAL AND PRIMARY ELECTIONS, THE NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES, 9 PRIMARY AND ELECTION EXPENSES AND ELECTION CONTESTS; CREATING 10 AND DEFINING MEMBERSHIP OF COUNTY BOARDS OF ELECTIONS; 11 IMPOSING DUTIES UPON THE SECRETARY OF THE COMMONWEALTH, 12 COURTS, COUNTY BOARDS OF ELECTIONS, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS; 13 IMPOSING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE ACT, AND CODIFYING, 14 REVISING AND CONSOLIDATING THE LAWS RELATING THERETO; AND 15 REPEALING CERTAIN ACTS AND PARTS OF ACTS RELATING TO 16 ELECTIONS," FURTHER PROVIDING FOR VOTING STANDARDS 17 DEVELOPMENT BOARD, FOR COMPENSATION OF DISTRICT ELECTION 18 OFFICERS, FOR POLLING PLACES SELECTED BY COUNTY BOARDS AND 19 FOR PUBLIC BUILDINGS TO BE USED WHERE POSSIBLE AND PORTABLE 20 POLLING PLACES AND FOR PROHIBITING POLLING PLACES IN 21 BUILDINGS OR ROOMS WHERE MALT OR BREWED BEVERAGES OR LIQUOR 22 DISPENSED; PROVIDING FOR POLLING PLACES IN OTHER BUILDINGS; 23 FURTHER PROVIDING FOR NOMINATIONS BY POLITICAL BODIES AND FOR 24 AFFIDAVITS OF CANDIDATES; FURTHER PROVIDING FOR OPENING OF 25 POLLS, POSTING CARDS OF INSTRUCTION AND NOTICES OF PENALTIES 26 AND VOTERS' RIGHTS AND EXAMINATION OF VOTING MACHINES, FOR 27 VOTING PROCEDURES, FOR DATE OF APPLICATION FOR ABSENTEE 28 BALLOTS, FOR CANVASSING OF OFFICIAL ABSENTEE BALLOTS AND FOR 29 VIOLATION OF PROVISIONS RELATING TO ABSENTEE VOTING; AND 30 MAKING A REPEAL OF THE ACT OF OCTOBER 8, 2004 (P.L.830,

MORE HERE
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/BI/BT/2005/0/SB0999P1790.HTM

HISTORY HERE
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/BI/BH/2005/0/SB0999.HTM

Ed Dixon's Letter on Johnny Doc

2006-05-03T18:48:00.000-04:00

Marcia Gelbart and Thomas Fitzgerald's April 20 article, "Phila. party's finances probed," implied that John Dougherty, treasurer of the Democratic City Committee (DCC), mishandled party funds. In Philadelphia, most campaigns' Election Day operations are financed via "street money," funds paid to individuals who are getting out the vote. Gelbart and Fitzgerald's article suggests that monies were improperly paid to members of electricians' union Local 98. I strongly believe that is not the case.
Without Dougherty, the Election Day operations of the Democratic Party would be severely diminished. In addition, over the years, Local 98 has supplied the DCC with an ample amount of funding, not to mention numerous donations to local candidates' campaigns.
If U.S. Rep. Bob Brady, chairman of the DCC, is dissatisfied with the work Dougherty has done for the Democratic Party, perhaps another political party would appreciate his passion and services.
The issue is not finances. It is about a real "neighborhood guy" rising through the ranks of the DCC and attempting to share power with other senior officials within his party.
Ed DixonPhiladelphia

Santorum comes to Northeast Philadelphia

2006-04-20T10:47:00.000-04:00

Santorum on Iraq:U.S. needs to hang in
By Tom Waring
Times Staff Writer
U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum conducted a survey of employees at Crown Cork & Seal, the packaging products manufacturer on Roosevelt Boulevard.In an April 10 visit to the company, he asked workers about their views on Iraq. A few wanted American military troops to withdrawal immediately. Many more wanted to fight until the United States won unconditionally. Most called for an orderly withdrawal within a year.
Santorum, a Republican, wants the United States to stay until it can claim a clear victory. He knows it won’t be easy."Democracies are hard to build," he said.
Calling Islamic fascists a threat to America, he wants President George W. Bush to articulate the consequences of losing the war.Setting a timetable to withdraw is wrong, he thinks, because the enemy would simply wait until the troops leave to initiate violence.An American pullout, he believes, would also signal to its enemies that the country is not willing to fight. Such a scenario would threaten the peace, he said, in the United States, the Middle East and parts of Asia and Europe.
The insurgents are hoping that the American people convince the government to withdraw troops, in Santorum’s view.
"Don’t let the terrorists terrorize you," he told the crowd.
According to Santorum, most Iraqis oppose the tactics of the insurgents. He also pointed to high retention rates in the American military as a sign that the troops believe in their mission.The problem, he said, is that round-the-clock cable television news coverage of the war is forcing public officials to respond immediately rather than thinking through the issue."If the founding fathers had a twenty-four-hour news cycle," he said, "we would still be singing Hail to the Queen."
Crown Cork & Seal CEO John Conway introduced Santorum, who faces a likely general election challenge from State Treasurer Bob Casey Jr.Conway thanked the senator for supporting a bill that would limit asbestos-related lawsuits against companies that are sued — years after mergers — despite never having produced, installed or sold products containing asbestos.
On another hot-button issue, Santorum said calls to his offices are running strongly against granting amnesty to illegal immigrants.The senator, whose father came to America from northern Italy, said action needs to be taken now."
First, we have to secure the border," he said.
Next, he’d favor additional detention facilities, a fence at the border of highly populated areas, and a system to verify that businesses aren’t hiring illegal aliens.As for the 4 million or so immigrants who came here legally but overstayed their visas, Santorum would want a criminal background check before allowing them to re-enter the country permanently.On another issue, Santorum is pushing for passage of a bill that would limit non-economic damages in medical malpractice jury cases to $250,000 for each defendant. Medical bills and wages would still be paid in full.
The senator complained that frivolous lawsuits and high malpractice premiums are causing the closure of obstetrician wards and chasing young doctors and specialists out of Pennsylvania."
The governor (Ed Rendell) is on the wrong side of the issue," he said, "and my opponent is on the wrong side of the issue.oo
Santorum, meanwhile, is targeting Philadelphia — and the Northeast, in particular — as he looks ahead to a probable general election showdown with Casey
I’d be disappointed if I didn’t win five or six wards," he said. "Philadelphia will be a big part of the key to victory."
State Rep. John Taylor (R-177th dist.) and Vince Fenerty, executive director of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, are co-chairing the campaign in the city.
While Philadelphia is overwhelmingly Democratic, Santorum has done well in the Northeast. His Philadelphia campaign team includes a bunch of Northeast residents — Kelly Preski, Joe DeFelice, Mick McKeown, Ed Dixon and Agnes "Chuckie" Tilley.
During a campaign event last week at Mayfair Caterers, Santorum was introduced by Scott Cummings, president of the Mayfair Civic Association and the incumbent’s voter registration coordinator in the Lower Northeast.
Santorum expects to win votes from union members. Among those in attendance at the catering hall was Wayne Miller, head of the local sprinkler fitters union.
Pennsylvania House Speaker John Perzel (R-172nd dist.), Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce president Al Taubenberger and Reynolds Baldwin, the Republican candidate in the 173rd Legislative District, joined Santorum in Mayfair.
Santorum, from western Pennsylvania, said he’s done "a heck of a lot" for Philadelphia. Among the accomplishments he cited was delivering federal funding to the Philadelphia Housing Authority for new construction, which created jobs for members of the building trade unions.
As the third-ranking Republican in the GOP-dominated Senate, Santorum acknowledges that he has a "big bull’s-eye painted on my back." He’s raised $16 million for the campaign and enlisted the help of 20,000 volunteers, adding that he plans to run the best grassroots campaign in state history.
Since February, his campaign has targeted likely voters in southeastern Pennsylvania through phone banks. ••Reporter Tom Waring can be reached at 215-354-3034 or twaring@phillynews.com

Letters | SWANN WAS RIGHT ON PITTSBURGH ARENA

2006-04-20T10:12:00.000-04:00

YOUR EDITORIAL on Lynn Swann "flip-flopping" for the Pittsburgh arena misrepresented the Republican gubernatorial candidate's position and what is best for the people of Pittsburgh.
Swann has been clear about his values, but being that the current administration has passed the legislation, he is realistic enough to recognize that gaming is something he'll inherit if elected. Assuming that, the Isle of Capri plan is an excellent opportunity. In fact, Lynn Swann was joined by 30 elected leaders who also endorsed it.
It's wrong to ask Pittsburgh to choose between losing the Penguins or building a new sports facility. Swann showed leadership - not naiveté - in promoting the best plan.
Ed Dixon, Philadelphia

“If These Wards Could Talk…”

2006-04-18T09:19:00.000-04:00

From the Committee of Seventy...
Kicking, yelling, even the occasional right hook – no I’m not describing the playground at recess time – I’m talking about some of the behavior that surrounds the process of choosing Philadelphia's ward leaders.
The Committee of Seventy is pleased to host, “If These Wards Could Talk…”on Wednesday, May 11 from 6 pm to 7:30 pm at the Fels South Philadelphia Community Center located at 2407 S. Broad St. This event is free and open to the public.
The panel is composed of past and present ward leaders who will not only talk about the Party rules, the ward-leader election process and the responsibility of this position, but they will also share their personal stories and experiences, and if we’re lucky, possibly some war wounds.
Panelists Include:
Jimmy Tayoun - Former Leader of the 1st Ward and current editor of the Philadelphia Public Record
David Oh - Republican Leader of the 3rd Ward, who also ran for Council in 2003
Marian Tasco - Democratic Leader of the 50th Ward and Councilwoman for the 9th District
Priscilla Cohen – Newly appointed Republican Leader of the 30th Ward
The panel will be moderated by Dave Davies of the Philadelphia Daily News
There is some street parking and the closest SEPTA stops are Snyder and Oregon. If you have any questions please contact Anne Mahlum at amahlum@seventy.org or at 215-557-3600 ext. 103.

NATIONAL NEWS: Wall Street Journal Highlights Voter Fraud in Philadelphia

2006-04-13T11:19:00.000-04:00

'A Rich History of Corruption'
WALL STREET JOURNAL
By JOHN FUND
April 13, 2006;
Page A13
HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Over five years after the near meltdown of the Florida presidential recount, politicians are still arguing over how best to reform state election laws. Ground zero in that battle now is Pennsylvania, which features two close statewide races, for governor and U.S. senator.
Democrats claim anything that impedes or discourages someone from voting is a violation of the Voting Rights Act. Republicans insist the state's rancid history of voter fraud requires preventive measures. The conflict of visions, to borrow Thomas Sowell's phrase, couldn't be more complete.
Take the bill the GOP-controlled Legislature passed, which would require voters show a form of official ID or a utility bill; another bill would end Philadelphia's bizarre practice of locating over 900 polling places in private venues, including bars, abandoned buildings and even the office of a local state senator. City officials admit their voter rolls are stuffed with phantoms. The city has about as many registered voters as it has adults, and is thus a rich breeding ground for fraud.
[Ed Rendell]
But Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell vetoed both bills last month, saying that in a time of voter apathy "the government should be doing everything it can to encourage greater participation." He warned that requiring an ID could disenfranchise the homeless, nursing-home residents and the poor. Mr. Rendell says there is no evidence people routinely impersonate others to vote. He also says requiring an ID at the polls doesn't combat absentee ballot fraud. True enough; election officials properly worry that some 25% of voters now don't show their face when voting. In 1998, Austin Murphy, a former Democratic congressman, pleaded guilty to fraudulently voting absentee ballots for nursing-home residents near Pittsburgh.
But Mr. Rendell's history doesn't inspire confidence that he takes fraud of any kind seriously. In 1994, Philadelphia Democrat Bill Stinson was booted from office as a state senator by a federal judge who found his campaign had rounded up 250 tainted absentee ballots. Mr. Rendell, then Philadelphia's mayor, had this reaction to the Stinson scandal: "I don't think it's anything that's immoral or grievous, but it clearly violates the election code." In 1997, Mr. Rendell admitted to the Journal's editorial board that Philadelphia judges had "a rich history of corruption" that called into question how fairly city laws are enforced.
Now governor, Mr. Rendell isn't eager to depart from business as usual. In 2004, a court had to order him to make changes in the deadlines for absentee military ballots so they would be counted. At the same time, his secretary of state asked prison wardens to post a document outlining how prisoners could vote absentee. When GOP Rep. Curt Weldon held a news conference to denounce illegal voting by prisoners, a TV camera crew captured voter operatives behind him carrying absentee ballots out of the prison.
Still, many liberals insist fraud isn't an issue in Pennsylvania. "Show us the fraud," said Elizabeth Milner, chairman of the state's League of Women Voters, urging a veto of voter ID. Well, Donna Hope of Philadelphia can show her, because in 2004 an organizer for Voting is Power, an offshoot of the Muslim American Society, registered her to vote despite her admission that she was a noncitizen. Although she was turned away from the polls for that reason that November, someone eventually voted in her name.
Ms. Hope, a citizen of Barbados, said the women registering her told her that if she "had been in the U.S. for seven years or more you can register to vote." Jocelyn Budd, the woman who is listed on Ms. Hope's registration form, recalls canvassing her street but not specifically registering her. "I heard that people were forging [registration] cards to meet goals, but I never falsified any information," she says.
As for the group that registered Ms. Hope, Noreen S. Ahmed-Ullah of the Chicago Tribune reported in 2004 on internal Muslim American Society documents which showed it is the "public face" in the U.S. of the Muslim Brotherhood, an international group that has spawned violent organizations including Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas.
MAS leaders say the documents obtained by the Tribune are either outdated or inaccurate. Shaker Elsayed, a top MAS leader, says that while the group was founded by Brotherhood members, it is independent. An MAS spokesperson denies the group has any connection to registration fraud.
Irregularities like these are representative of mushrooming fraud, and the general public clearly believes some safeguards are needed. Despite claims by NAACP chairman Julian Bond that voter ID laws represent "an onerous poll tax," polls show upward of 80% favor them. Andrew Young, the former Atlanta mayor and U.N. ambassador, believes that in an era when people have to show ID to rent a video or cash a check "requiring ID can help poor people." He notes that his native Georgia is deploying a mobile bus to issue free voter IDs.
But no antifraud laws will work if prosecutors and judges don't crack down on election irregularities. Several tell me they fear being accused of racism and aiding voter-suppression tactics if they pursue touchy fraud cases. One district attorney told the U.S. Government Accountability Office that he doesn't pursue phony voter registrations because they are "victimless and nonviolent crimes."
Even those few who are prosecuted often view the punishment as the cost of doing politics. Barbara Landers, a former Democratic state Senate aide, was convicted in 1994 on 30 counts of misleading absentee voters in the Stinson scandal. She was given a suspended sentence and fined only $1,000. Last month, she pleaded guilty to misappropriating up to $115,000 in state grants meant to help the needy. "If the book had been thrown at her for voter fraud, she might have been deterred from subsequent behavior," one Philadelphia prosecutor told me.The integrity of the ballot box is just as important to the credibility of elections as access to it. In not closing off opportunities for fraud and chaos, Pennsylvania is inviting trouble in its fall elections that could rival that of Florida in 2000

.Mr. Fund is a columnist for OpinionJournal.com.

Baldwin and McGeehan Spar over Voter Fraud

2006-04-13T10:52:00.000-04:00

Candidate Baldwin plans to win with ideas
Reynolds Baldwin calls himself a "man of service." Now he wants to serve in the state House as the representative from the 173 district.
Born in Frankford, Baldwin, a Republican from the 6600 block of Tulip St., is an adjunct professor of American History at Bucks County Community College. His family owns the Baldwin Frankford Dairies and he has served Fishtown as a Minister at Siloam Methodist Church. He has sold real estate in Tacony and Frankford, while co-founding the Aramingo Development Co. And now, he challenges state Rep. Michael McGeehan (D) for the 173rd legislative district.
"I'm a little disgusted about the condition of the community," he said, about his decision to run for office. "I didn't see anyone doing a good job. Other areas are doing it better and I think the 173rd can do it better."
Baldwin admits that he has no easy answers. And, as he goes door-to-door, he sees the frustration on people's faces. His most "radical" idea: "Hhow about enforcing the laws we have.""
Gambling was legalized," he said, "because they said it was going towards property tax relief."
More than a year after the slot machines bill passed, the state legislature has yet to decide has how to use the gambling revenue.
"I'm not sure if I was in the legislature I would have voted for gambling," he said. "It's a tax on the poor.
"While Baldwin understands that it's "not smart" for Pennsylvania to lose money due to New Jersey and Delaware's legalized gambling, he questions whether it will remain honest.
"Anytime you have something generating that kind of money," he said, "the temptation for corruption is overwhelming."
As for the other hot topic the legislature is debating, Baldwin believes voter identification is absolutely necessary.
"I don't see how it is a burden on the voters because most people have some piece of identification," he said. "I don't see how it's an attempt to disenfranchise people. And it's well known that there is voter fraud in Philadelphia."
Meanwhile, his opponent says it will not only hurt voter turnout, but it will also make it more difficult to find people willing to work the polls.
"We want to encourage more people to vote, not less," McGeehan said. "This will suppress people from participating in the voting process. We have a problem recruiting people now. This will further exacerbate the problem of recruiting poll workers."
But Baldwin doesn't think making voting easier will increase voter turn out. As for the polling workers, he says they are "serious about their responsibility" and believes them to be "capable" of asking for identification.
Although he is running as a Republican in a heavily Democratic area, Baldwin feels confident about his chances to win.
"I'm just going to be myself and be sincere," he said. "I think the voters will pick up on that."

It won't bring back nun, but might prevent another tragedy (from Philadelphia Daily News)

2006-03-14T08:20:00.000-05:00

The memory of Sister Paul Mercedes Perreca's violent hit-and-run death still haunts her Mayfair neighborhood, two months after she was killed crossing Cottman Avenue on her way to morning mass.
With an eye towards preventing similar tragedies in the future, the Mayfair Civic Association formally unveiled a speed radar yesterday that will monitor motorists on a daily basis.
The radar, which resembles a 6-foot-high trailer, was parked in front of St. Matthew's School, on Cottman Avenue near Hawthorne Street, during the open and close of school. Perreca was hit by a red pickup truck as she tried to cross that intersection on Jan. 9.
The radar flashes the suggested speed limit - 15 mph when kids are coming and going to school - and displays drivers' actual speeds, said Scott Cummings, the head of the civic association.
Police officers from the 15th District were on hand to write tickets to drivers who sped past the radar, as they will for at least the next two weeks, said Joe DeFelice, the association's legal counsel.
The radar was funded by a $6,190 grant from House Speaker John Perzel. Perzel previously posted a $5,000 reward for information leading to the driver of the truck that killed Perreca. Her case remains unsolved.
"We don't ever want to knock on somebody's door and tell them their child was run over," Cummings said. "We needed to reach out and be proactive."
If the radar proves to be a helpful tool to police, Cummings said, it will be moved to other locations. The radar was lent last night to a vigil on Harbison Avenue for Demiglio Bell, who was killed by a hit-and-run driver in Wissinoming over the weekend.

Filings for the House

2006-03-08T07:58:00.000-05:00

Tidbits:
169th Beloved State Rep. Denny O'Brien will run unopposed. Denny must be doing something right in this District where Democrats fear to tread.
170th State Rep. George Kenney will face Brendan Boyle yet again. George works tirelessly for the people of Somerton, Bustleton, Fox Chase, Burholme and other surrounding communities.
172nd PA Speaker John Perzel will face Tim Kearney in November. Still unsure whether or not perennial candidate John McDermott will enter the race. Perzel has increased his profile in recent years and continued to regularly provide great service to the people of Mayfair, Fox Chase , Holmesburg and the rest of the District.
173rd Mike McGeehan finally has a formidable foe in Reynolds Baldwin. Baldwin has been canvassing the District and plans to mount a good challenge. Early speculation that McGeehan would have a primary contest have obviously subsided.
174th This open seat vacated by Alan Butkovitz will be filled via a Special Election this month. John Sabatina, Jr. (son of Ward Leader John Sabatina) is the front runner. He will face a refreshing newcomer, Jamie Wong is the November General Election.
175th This is the Open seat that will be vacated by longtime State Rep Marie Lederer. Many are vying for the opportunity to replace her. They are Mike O'Brien, a former aid to Lederer; Terry Graboyes, business owner; Anne Dicker, from Philly for Change; Attorney Pete Fiorentino and Republican Patricia Dempsey.
177th Everybody's Favorite State Rep John Taylor will face a minimal challenge from Harry Engasser an aide to Mike Stack and Democratic Ward Leader.
179th Embattled and really old State Rep Bill Reiger will not run for reelection. This is a good thing because he has been accused of absenteeism, not having a real District Office and living outside the District. The front runner appears to be Emilio Agustin Vazquez who has been endorsed by the Ward Leaders and the local AFL-CIO. Other vying for that spot in that Democratic primary are Tony Payton, Walter Gnoza and Rodnell Griffin. The republican Candidate is likable community activist Troy Bouie.
180th Angel Cruz will face Carlos Matos sponsored William Cartagena in this tough Hispanic District. Republicans will field Charles Reynolds for November.
181st Curtis Thomas will face Lawrence Clark in the May Primary.
182nd Babette Josephs will run for reelection again. However, this time she will not face Andrew Hohns in the Primary. Rather she will see Larry Farnese and Frank Sileo. Republicans have fielded Doering Lindsay.
184th State Rep and former Longshoreman Billy Keller is up for Reelection. He will face Robert Mannino in November.
185th Rob Donatucci will not face former rough and tumble Darby Mayor Paula Brown as it does not appear she has filed nominating petitions. He will however see Malina Williams in the Primary. the winner of that contest will see South Philly native Greg Gentile in November.
186th Harold James will run unopposed.
188th Jim Roebuck will face young Devon Cade in the May Primary. Cade can be found chiming in on phillyblog.com, where he regularly criticizes Roebuck. Dan Klein was expected to run, it does not appear that he filed petitions.
190th Rematch from 2004 between Mike Horsey and Tommy Blackwell. Blackwel won the seat from Horsey in 2004. The Republican Candidate, Westley Ames, is well known in West Philly and should put forth a challenge.
191st Ron Waters will face opposition from Bennie Swans, Jr. in November. Swans is the son of activist Bennie Swans. Maybe he can ride the coattails of Lynn Swann.
192nd Louise Bishop runs unopposed.
194th Kathy Manderino will see Chris Rowland in November.
195th It appears that Frank Oliver will receive a free pass. It has been rumored that Milton Street would try and do what his nephew Sharif Street was unable to in 2002 and unseat Oliver. Milton faces to problems: he has not filed nominating petitions and he lives in New Jersey. Even is he were able to get in the race, Oliver promised him a good "whooping."
197th Jewel Williams will run unopposed. There was some speculation that Mr. Lewis Harris would run again. Harris is known for his Republican presence in the overwhelmingly Democratic District.
198th Rosita Youngblood will face Supreme Dow in the Democratic Primary.
200th Newly Elected State Rep Cherelle Parker will not face opposition. Cherelle was accused by the Committee of Seventy, in her first run, iof improper electioneering. Seventy has since retracted those accusations.
201st Myers will face Gerald Marshall in the Primary and will most likely face Joseph Messa in the General.
202nd A very interesting election here. Mark Cohen, Blogger and State Rep will see a primary challenge for the first time in 22 years when he faces long time City Council Aide, Attorney and Iraq War vet Pat Dugan. This should be interesting. Cohen seems to think that Dugan has no shot.
203rd Potential mayoral Candidate and State Rep Dwight Evans will see Lamont Thomas in the May Primary.

All told, this should be a very interesting election year. We have Santorum v. Casey, Swann/Matthews v. Rendell/Baker-Knoll or Rendell/Hoeffel or Rendell/Roberts or ...
We also have several contested Congressional ad State Senate races.

Great Things Happening in Mayfair

2006-03-07T17:22:00.000-05:00

Recently the Mayfair Civic Association, through a grant via PA Speaker John Perzel, has installed a radar machine at area grade schools including St Matts, St Tims and Mayfair. This was in response to the growing concern of traffic accidents and speeding violations in the Mayfair Area.
Scott Cummings has personally been installing the radar machine in various locations. He has also been the surrogate crossing Guard at Hawthorne Street for the last couple of weeks. If you would like to join the Civic and aide Scott in his efforts, email mayfaircivicassociation@yahoo.com.

Civic Associations Respond to Vern Anastasio's recent Email criticizing Frank DiCicco

2006-02-16T13:42:00.000-05:00

Dear Vernon,

We read your email dated 2/8/06 regarding the casinos and we share your interest and concern about what will happen on the riverfront. But we disagree with your allegations regarding Councilman DiCicco.

The Councilman has been proactive and had already implemented the type of strategy you suggested. Meetings with civic association presidents and developers had already been scheduled and public meetings with developers had been scheduled for mid-March.

We want to work together with other civic associations on all issues of common interest, including of course the casino developments. But we do not want any of these issues to be used as political barbs in an election year. We hope our usual substantive and productive civic association discourse will not continue to be used as a forum for negative campaigning.

We look forward to continued cooperation with you and all the other neighborhood folks involved.

Thank you,

Tania Rorke, President, Society Hill Civic Association
David Oâ€™Donnell, President, Queen Village Neighbors Association
Rich Horrow, President, Old City Civic Association
Matt Ruben, President, Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association
Judy Applebaum, President, Washington Square West Civic Association

(this email is being sent on behalf of all 5 presidents)

In a message dated 2/8/2006 5:38:36 AM Eastern Standard Time, AnastasioLaw writes:
Okay Friends:
I want to tell you I'm interested in this issue for two reasons.

First, I love this city. My family has called Philadelphia home for about 120 years. We've built homes, families and businesses here. And so it matters to me when I learn that one, and perhaps even two, casinos are coming to the Delaware River.

Second, and I don't think it's is a secret that I hope to be the next councilperson representing Philadelphia's First District and I look forward to earning that seat and advocating for the interests of all 1st District neighborhoods. And therefore, if a quality of life disaster can be avoided in 2006, then by all means I believe we should avoid it so none of us has to deal with too much traffic, litter, organized crime, prostitution and drug trafficking in 2010.

Months after four companies submitted proposals for casinos on the banks of the Delaware, the neighborhoods along the Delaware River -- Fishtown, Port Richmond, New Kensington, Northern Liberties, Society Hill, Queen Village, Pennsport, Whitman and to a lesser extent, Old City -- are still wondering what their plans are, how will it impact their communities and what partnerships are these companies willing to form in order to mitigate any negative impact.

This coming April, at Drexel University, the Pennsylvania Gaming Commission will hold public hearings on casinos in order to give residents an opportunity to speak up and speak out on the specific details in any or all of the applications.

Unfortunately, none of the neighborhoods along the Delaware will be prepared to make such a statement because all the details are being from them.

I believe it is the job of the District Councilperson to help facilitate an environment where these neighborhoods are empowered. It is also my firm belief that the district councilperson should be a vocal advocate for the interests of these neighborhoods. And, finally, I believe the district councilperson should contact each of the casino developers and call upon them to sit down with the specific neighborhood or neighborhoods that will be directly impacted if that developer is selected by the state gaming commission.

In my opinion, this makes perfect sense. District Councilmembers regularly weigh in on matters when an establishment in a particular community wants outdoor seating or a liquor license. It would follow, then, that a councilperson would want to pay close attention and be intimately involved in a development with several liquor licenses that will be open twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
Sadly, this isn?t happening along the Delaware River. Instead, Councilman Frank DiCicco has attended two meetings -- one in Northern Liberties and one in Fishtown -- urging neighbors NOT to organize into a cohesive coalition and suggesting that they NOT meet with any of the casino developers until after the State Commission has made their selections.

This suggested course of action is a recipe for disaster. It runs counter to any thoughtful approach to responsible community development or urban planning. And, most importantly, it will put those neighborhoods most directly impacted at a severe disadvantage. Instead of negotiating from a position of strength before the developers are awarded their license, these communities will be forced to deal with these companies from a position of weakness.

One only has to look across town to see how this process should work. Democratic ward leader Ralph Wynder, with the support of district councilperson Michael Nutter, has helped facilitate a coalition that has already begun a dialogue with Trump Entertainment, who recently applied for a license in the Allegheny West neighborhood of the City. Through these negotiations, Trump Entertainment has extended a thoughtful offer to help mitigate any potential negative effects of their casino (see the offer here: http://www.hallwatch.org/news/1139321659603/trumpoffer). This is a smart and thoughtful approach to dealing with casinos.

If you examine the proposal of Trump Entertainment, you will see there is an enormous amount of potential growth and investment for neighborhoods like Fishtown, Port Richmond or Pennsport and Northern Liberties. These neighborhoods have been historically neglected by the city for decades.

I envision a Community Investment Fund that gets annual revenue from casino developers and whose board is comprised of civic leaders of those neighborhoods within 1000 feet of the casino. This group would fund community investment projects like sidewalk safety lighting, green space, bike lanes, litter removal teams and other services. In effect, this organization could provide the services that City Hall is unable to fund. This organization would be very much like the Center City special services district or DiCicco's Citizens Alliance for Better Neighborhoods -- only without the taxes of the former or the politics of the later.

An attempt to organize a coalition of Delaware River neighborhoods is struggling to survive because of Councilman DiCicco's early warnings against such a group. I believe Dicicco has let politics cloud his judgment on this issue. I realize his former attorney, Richard Sprague, is connected to one of the casino proposals. And I also know that Mister DiCicco is attempting to build a better relationship with our mayor, who supports the idea of a minority owned business receiving one of the city's licenses. But while Mister Dicicco takes care of his friends, who, I ask, is protecting the interests of those who live along the Delaware from Port Richmond to Pennsport? His lack of leadership on this issue is tantamount to a dereliction of duty.

We are running out of time. The sooner people who live along the neighborhoods of the Delaware speak up and demand a seat at the table with these developers, the better.

If you live in the First District or just care about thi sissue, I urge all of you to contact your Councilman DiCicco at 215.686.3458 and ask that he do exactly what a district councilperson SHOULD do in this instance -- call each casino developer and demand a meeting with them and the community directly impacted by their specific development. Now is the time.

I look forward to working with you in the future so that Philadelphia can achieve its destiny of greatness.

Until then, I remain

Respectfully yours,
Vern Anastasio

Differing Views on House Bill 1318

2006-02-16T11:38:00.000-05:00

Majority Leader Sam Smith:
Our right to vote is a key to our freedom. This country's Founding Fathers fought the Revolution to protect that liberty, and the Voter Protection Act encompassed in House Bill 1318 will continue that protection. Every citizen has the right to vote and to have that vote count....
...We want to ensure everyone's vote is counted equally -- only once...
...It is the duty of every elected and government official to uphold the integrity of the election process, our basic American civil liberty, not perpetuate the problem with false arguments. The Voter Protection Act is a sensible solution to bring back the integrity of the election process....
http://phillyrecord.com/2006/0216/otheropinion.html

State Sen. Anthony Williams:

"As introduced, HB 1318 would have restricted voting rights for several populations in the Commonwealth, including seniors, those with limited polling options or in housing transition and ex-offenders."
...The fundamental concern remains that some voters may be disenfranchised, seniors in particular. As a proponent for democracy, anything that hinders voter participation draws my concern."...
http://phillyrecord.com/2006/0216/0-article-03.html

The bottom line here is, "One person, one vote."

Neighborhood Civic PAC Draft Scott Cummings Fundraiser a Huge Success - 2/9/2006

2006-02-09T15:36:00.000-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 9, 2006
Contact Ed Dixon, 267-918-6846
The Neighborhood Civic Political Action Committee is growing in its effort to Draft Scott Cummings for City Council.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Two winners were present Sunday at Chickie’s and Pete’s in Northeast Philadelphia. One was the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers; the other was local civic leader Scott Cummings. The Neighborhood Civic Political Action Committee, founded by several local residents to help jumpstart and resurrect local Civic Associations, has put a local leader at the front of its first foray into local politics. “Scott Cummings has single handedly resurrected the Mayfair Civic Association, helped propelled the Mayfair Town Watch to “Town Watch of the Year” status, and has reached beyond his neighborhood borders to help others, including Upper Holmesburg Civic Association and the Fox Chase Homeowners Association, take a stand in the neighborhoods and give power back to the people,” said attorney and PAC Chair Sam Mirarchi.

Mirarchi, along with other local activists, sees a vibrant future in the success of civic associations. “These are the backbone of our neighborhoods, “ he said. “That is why we are coordinating the effort to put Scott where he needs to be, that is in City Council continuing his fight for the neighbors in our City’s most critical arena.”

The event, attended by roughly two hundred people including local civic, community, labor and party leaders, as well as elected officials and the Quaker City String Band, with their Captain Bob Shannon, Jr., was a tremendous success. Scott, who has been at the forefront of rectifying concerns of the residents of the Northeast, was humbled by the amount of support he has received throughout the community and by the subject draft effort. “These individuals [referring to the PAC] have approached me about doing what is right. In their minds, that is taking my fight, along with the fight of the people, to City Hall. This is something I have been thinking about for quite some time. I, of course, still have to discuss this with my family and will make intentions known when the time is right.”

Kevin Kelly, who will be deploying to Iraq just days after the event and is the current Chairman of the Philadelphia Young Republicans, came out to support and has joined this effort. “Scott is a fighter. There are too many politicians that are only in this game for themselves. Scott has put the citizens first and I am sure he will continue to be their voice in City Council.” It is evident that many echoed this very sentiment based upon the attendance on Super Bowl Sunday.
If you would like to join the fight, help Draft Scott Cummings for City Council. For more information, email neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com, visit neighborhoodcivicpac.blogspot.com or call 267-918-6846.

Local Groups Unite to Fight Drug Use

2006-02-09T08:52:00.000-05:00

A rally was recently held at a Sunoco station in Fox Chase at the corner of Rhawn and Verree combating that store's sale of drug paraphernalia. Several groups came together including the Fox Chase Homeowners Association, the Mayfair Civic Association, the Neighborhood Civic PAC, Men United for a Better Philadelphia, Mothers in Charge, the Guardian Angels and Transit Town Watch. These groups have been active in combating quality of life issues in Philadelphia neighborhoods. Spearheading this event was Jerry Rocks, who became disgusted with rise of drug use in Philadelphia neighborhoods. Rocks enlisted the help of Mayfair Civic Association President Scott Cummings amongst others including Bob Tausendfreundt, father of slain teen Matthew Taylor, who has started the Northeast Chapter of Men United.
Cummings, "a likely candidate to replace City Councilwoman Joan Krajewski next year" spent $160 of his own money in order to clear all paraphernalia off the shelves. In a display of unity, Rocks, Cummings and Tausendfreundt destroyed the paraphernalia in a curb side demonstration and disposed of such. Sunoco plans on working with the group and has removed the rolling papers. However, several types of "Blunts" remained in the store until the group bought them out. If anyone is interested in aiding the effort to remove paraphernalia from neighborhood stores, contact the Neighborhood Civic PAC at mailto:neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com

Cummings Wins At Super Bowl Party (Philadelphia Public Record)

2006-02-09T07:51:00.000-05:00

Cummings Wins At Super Bowl Party
by Tony West
Pittsburgh wasn't the only winner last Sunday. More than 200 supporters turned out to support Scott Cummings at a fundraiser for his race for City Council, chipping in $50 a head to build his war chest.
The fundraiser, held at Chickie & Pete's, was a Superbowl party. Cummings, who is president of the Mayfair Civic Association, drew on a wide network of well-wishers. Cummings is seeking the GOP nod to contest the 6th Councimanic Dist. Being vacated by Joan Krajewski. Philadelphia Republican Chairman Vito Canuso dropped by to wish Cummings success in his race.

Emilio Agustin Vazquez Clears the Way to Harrisburg

2006-02-02T07:18:00.000-05:00

Emilio Agustin Vazquez, a member of District Council 33, has appeared to have cleared his path to Harrisburg by picking up the endorsement of the Philadelphia AFL-CIO and the powerful Building Trades. Mr. Vazquez ran unsuccessfully previously to replace State rep Bill Rieger, however, Mr. Rieger to various ethical and health concerns has indicated that he will not run again. With no Republican candidate and no other viable Democratic Candidate, it appears Vazquez is slated to be the Democratic Nominee almost ensuring him a seat in the General Assembly. Picture reprinted courtesy of the Philadelphia City Paper.

Building Trades Threaten Split with Philadelphia AFL-CIO Over CaseyEndorsement (Via PoliticsPA)

2006-01-25T12:23:00.000-05:00

PoliticsPA has learned that several influential members of the Philadelphia AFL-CIO have clashed with local, state and national leadership regarding the endorsement of Bob Casey Jr. over Rick Santorum for United States Senate. The divergence has become so great that the Philadelphia Building Trades, led by Pat Gillespie, threatened to split from the Philadelphia AFL-CIO at the endorsement meeting Tuesday night. Leaders representing unions including the Sprinklerfitters, Cement Masons and Longshoremen strongly opposed the endorsement of Casey.

Mayfair Civic Association Secures Grant from State Rep. John Perzel for New Radar Machine

2006-01-25T07:52:00.000-05:00

John Perzel Awards Check to Scott Cummings, President of the Mayfair Civic Association (MAC)-
Pictured is Scott Cummings shaking John Perzel’s hand in appreciation for the grant that was awarded to the Mayfair Civic Association (MAC). Cummings said the grant will be used to fund a portable speed radar machine in response to the community concern about the increase of traffic accidents. The radar unit will be placed throughout the neighborhood, especially in school zones, to help curb speeding and increase safety awareness.

Inquirer refers to Knox as GOP Mayoral Hopeful

2006-01-22T08:52:00.000-05:00

In today's Inquirer the front page of the City and Region declared GOP Mayoral hopeful resigns his position to concentrate on 2007 Mayor's race. It stated that the story was on B3. When you get to B3 there is a story on Tom Knox leaving the firm he is in, so that he can concentrate on running for mayor. However, there was no further mention of the GOP. Last we checked, Knox was vying for the Democratic nomination. Was a deal struck to bring him to the Republicans or was this just a faux pas. Could it be interesting if he decides to go to the GOP with 5 million dollars in hand? Nevertheless, there is no mention of the "GOP" in the online edition but you can read the story here
http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/local/13680318.htm

More Election Fraud Swept Under the Rug -

2006-01-17T06:53:00.000-05:00

Sun, Jan. 15, 2006
Tom Ferrick Jr. Political power to restart clocks
By Tom Ferrick Jr.
Inquirer Columnist
What is that foul odor I smell?
Wait, wait, I think I've found it. It's the aroma surrounding the criminal case involving local political bigwig Michael Stack Jr.
Stack, 76, was facing forgery and election-fraud charges in connection with a 2003 race for City Council.
The tense of the verb in the last paragraph is correct... was facing charges. The case was dismissed in a Dec. 22 ruling by visiting Judge R. Barry McAndrews.
McAndrews didn't grace us with a written opinion, but in his order he cited Rule 600, also known as the "speedy-trial rule," which states that a trial must begin within 365 days after a defendant is arrested.
For the record, Stack and two political associates were arrested on Feb. 24, 2004, so obviously more than 365 days have elapsed. Or have they?
Under Rule 600, the clock is stopped if delays are caused by defense actions or motions, lest defenders be tempted to use the rule to engineer dismissals for their clients.
You can see why we have Rule 600: to stop prosecutors from dragging their feet while a defendant sits in jail or walks around in limbo.
In the Stack case, it is clear that the State Attorney General's Office, which brought the charges, never asked for, never wanted, and repeatedly opposed attempts to delay a trial.
The only motion that state prosecutors initiated was two days after Stack was arrested, seeking to have an out-of-town judge assigned to hear the case.
No mental wizardry
It doesn't take a genius to figure out why. Stack is wired politically.
He is a lawyer, son of a congressman, the husband of Judge Felice Stack, father of State Sen. Michael Stack 3d, and longtime Democratic leader of the 58th Ward in Northeast Philadelphia.
His alleged crime: forging several hundred voters' signatures on the nominating petitions for a political protégé, John Farley.
In 2003, Farley quit his job at the U.S. Postal Service to run against Republican incumbent Brian O'Neill for City Council. A judge threw his name off the ballot after GOP lawyers challenged the validity of the signatures.
Feeling betrayed by Stack, Farley complained to District Attorney Lynne Abraham. She recused herself, citing her political ties to Stack as a ward leader, and tossed the hot potato to the state.
The Attorney General's Office took up the cause and convened a grand jury. When Stack and the others were charged, then-Attorney General Jerry Pappert said the case was important "because, in my view, when you corrupt the very beginning of the electoral and political process, you corrupt the entire process."
Not so fast
Stack's lawyers objected to the state's request to have an out-of-town judge oversee the case. Common Pleas Court Judge Frederica Massiah-Jackson ruled against the defense on March 29, 2004. Defense lawyers asked her to reconsider her ruling, and she agreed, telling both sides to file briefs on the issue. That process was completed in mid-August 2004. Massiah-Jackson said she would have a ruling after Labor Day.
It came after Labor Day, all right.
Seven months - that is not a misprint - passed before Massiah-Jackson finally ruled in favor of the prosecutors, and she did so only after the Attorney General's Office filed a pleading, urging her to act.
It is clear from the record that all parties agreed the Rule 600 clock would be stopped while Massiah-Jackson handled the defense objections to appointing an out-of-town judge.
McAndrews, a senior judge from Bucks County, was named in June to handle the case. A preliminary hearing was held in August. Before a trial could be held, Stack's lawyers, citing Rule 600, filed a motion for dismissal. McAndrews dismissed the case three days before Christmas.
"To say that we were shocked and dismayed is an understatement," said Kevin Harley, a spokesman for Attorney General Tom Corbett.
As to myself, I am shocked, amazed, dismayed, and just plain sickened by the smell of it.
To his credit, Corbett isn't giving up. He has appealed McAndrews' dismissal to state Superior Court.

Just another example

Raj Bhakta Raises More Than $110,000 in First Month - 1/12/2006 (Via Politicspa.com)

2006-01-13T06:49:00.000-05:00

January 11, 2006
Contact: Chris Brennan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
215-628-4005
215-628-4005 (c)
Raj Bhakta Raises More Than $110,000 in First Month

Pennsylvania Congressional Candidate Raj Peter Bhakta today reported that he has raised more than $110,000 only weeks after the creation of his exploratory committee in the 13th District."We are off to a great first month. I am encouraged and very thankful for the financial support generated within only a few weeks of my announcement - from people eager to bring change and reform to Congress. We gathered strength during the two biggest holidays of the year; it represents the growing momentum of my campaign and the attractiveness of legitimate and thorough reform message." Raj said.
Raj reported contributions of over $110,000.00 for the reporting period, with over $100,000 cash-on-hand.
Brian McDowell, a Northeast Philadelphia resident, said that he contributed and is supporting Raj because of he is a fresh voice and his reform agenda is type of cleansing Congress needs these days. "Raj brings a new voice, fresh ideas, and is not part of the old-boy network in Congress currently spending our tax dollars and under investigation right now. Raj has a clear vision that will improve the lives of people living here. We need a strong leader like Raj who stands for what he believes, brings a different perspective, and will not be a lifelong politician."
Raj is a Managing Partner of Vanquish Holdings, a real estate firm. He also appeared on the 2nd season of NBC's "The Apprentice" in 2004.

Possible New Mayor Candidate (Republican)

2006-01-12T06:13:00.000-05:00

It appears that someone by the name of Rob Gurtcheff wants to run for Mayor. He has launched a blog and wants to get signatures. He was born and raised in the Northeast. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, which we can respect. He is also a Mummer and an investigator for an insurance firm. Not much else is known. He has an interstice plan: "My strategy is very simple: #1)Get on the ballot and #2)get people to vote for me."
See his complete profile here http://www.blogger.com/profile/16913915
Visit his Blog here http://gurtcheff4mayor.blogspot.com./

UPDATE - Rob has withdrawn from the race due to fear for his job. http://gurtcheff4mayor.blogspot.com/2006/01/quicker-than-i-thought.html

Cummings Artice in City Paper

2006-01-11T19:26:00.000-05:00

Fast Track
The PPA gives one of its own a political head start.
by Jenna Portnoy

As candidates position themselves for a 2007 run at District Councilwoman Joan Krajewski's seat, the Republican-controlled Philadelphia Parking Authority recently gave a GOP-affiliated employee an edge over the field of possible contenders. PPA head of investigations Scott Cummings, who is vying for the 6th District, which includes Mayfair, Frankford and Holmesburg, has campaigned for House Speaker John Perzel, a Philadelphia Republican who orchestrated the state takeover of the PPA in 2001.

The Home Rule Charter bars municipal employees from running for higher office while on the payroll. No such rule exists for state officials, but the PPA had previously prohibited employees unless they took an unpaid leave of absence or resigned to avoid the perception that they were using public resources to campaign. That all changed Oct. 24, when its board of directors authorized its employees to seek office. Spokeswoman Linda Miller said the board "did not want to deter anyone from carrying out their civic responsibility."
Now Cummings is openly campaigning while possible Democratic contenders state Rep. Michael McGeehan, Finnegan's Wake co-owner Mike Driscoll and Marty Bednarek, a School Reform Commission member, mull a run.
The new policy of the PPA, a traditional bastion of patronage, could give an Authority employee an unfair advantage over a city employee. None of the potential candidates has made an issue of the change, probably because nothing, aside from the party bosses' OK, prevents them from declaring. McGeehan, who wouldn't have to give up his state seat to run, says he is focusing on winning re-election to the House this year. Driscoll ran an unsuccessful campaign for an at-large council seat in 2003 and if he opts to run for the district seat, opponents would likely bring up his connection to Kevin Rankin, a strip-club owner linked to indicted Councilman Rick Mariano.
Krajewski has enrolled in the city's early retirement incentive program, a sign the seven-term councilwoman will not run again. In the meantime, Cummings is working to ensure that political connections are not all he has going for himself in 2007.
Every Friday night, Cummings, a 44-year-old father of three and a former bodyguard for Donald Trump and Henry Kissinger, works the door at JAMZ roller skating rink when the Mayfair Civic Association (MCA) reserves the rink for residents. As president of the MCA, he made a name for himself turning around the former WOW Family Fun Center, which was previously blamed for youths terrorizing the area. "There were kids going through the neighborhood causing damage," Cummings says. "They weren't neighborhood kids."
He should know. Cummings' whole world exists within several miles of the rink. He hops in his white truck and drives to St. Matthew Elementary School for the varsity basketball game. Then it's on to the soon-to-be-opened John M. Perzel Community Center and finally a spin past row homes in search of "House NOT for Sale" signs he distributed to combat the number of sellers fetching high prices for their homes and bailing.
After graduating from Father Judge High School in 1979, Cummings went to Mansfield University, and thanks to his parents' reverse psychology—"That's OK, the neighbors didn't think you'd make it anyway"—earned a degree in criminal justice. He guarded Trump from 1989 to 1994.
In response to a rash of five murders stemming from domestic disputes in the Northeast, Cummings says he wants the large 15th police district split up or covered by surrounding districts. "It's hard to get a police car down here," he says. "They're busy under the El with shootings and stabbings."
Cummings is capitalizing on the chance the Republican establishment gave him to gain an early advantage in a city, but not a district, where Republicans are vastly outnumbered. Cummings, whose wife Vicki won the GOP nomination to challenge Krajewski before bowing out of the 2003 election, is planning a Super Bowl party fundraiser, but city GOP head Vito Canuso noted that bringing in the cash is not a priority. "A lot of the incumbents try to raise a lot of money to scare the other candidates away," he says. "A guy like Scott is doing it the other way. He's working hard."
Still, hard work may not be enough to succeed a "legend," says political consultant Larry Ceisler. "These things don't come up very often," he says. "You're going to have a lot of people interested in running. No one hands these seats to anyone on a silver platter."

Marrone Considering Congressional Run (PoliticsPA.com)

2006-01-10T16:33:00.000-05:00

Marrone Considering Congressional Run PoliticsPA has learned that Republican Christian Marrone is considering a run for the GOP nomination in the 13th Congressional District. Marrone, who previously served under Montgomery District Attorney Bruce Castor, now works in Washington as a Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense. He briefly considered a run for congress in 2004. Marrone would be forced to resign his job before announcing his candidacy. With deep ties in the district to both Republicans and Democrats, Marrone would be a threat to current frontrunner Raj Bhakta.

UPDATED - Marrone has dropped out of contention.

UPDATED - Preski Eyeing Run for City Hall

2006-01-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

First Perzel's race, then maybe her own
Kelly Preski says she likes to work on just one election at a time: First, state House Speaker John Perzel's - then her own.
Preski, whose husband, Brian, is Perzel's chief of staff, is thinking about running for an at-large City Council seat in 2007.
"You heard right," she said this week.
A registered nurse, Preski, 37, said she would make a decision at the end of next year, after Perzel, a Northeast Philadelphia Republican, ends his reelection race. Preski, who worked on Republican Sam Katz's failed bid for mayor in 2003, intends to work on Perzel's campaign.
The Preskis live in Councilman Rick Mariano's district but will soon move to a house they are building in another district, Kelly Preski said.
That district already has a Republican representative, Councilman Brian J. O'Neill, which is why Preski is mulling an at-large race.

Yesterday, on INSIDE STORY, hosted by Monica Malpass, Renee Amoore, President of the Amoore Group and prominent African-American Republican Woman, stated [paraphrased] "that 2007 will bring several Republicans vying for City Council, one of which was Kelly Preski, wife of Brian Preski, Speaker John Perzel's Chief of Staff. Keep your eye out for her." This came as part of the segment at the end of the show where each panelists gets thirty seconds to speak about anything involving politics. This was a very interesting point.

Cummings Makes Snooper Portion of Philly Public Record

2006-01-05T06:35:00.000-05:00

Snooper Election Special: Here we go already, and the next City primary is not even here yet. Scott Cummings, former Chief - Bench Warrant Officer-Family Court, and now a Community Leader, is off and running. Scott is going to throw his hat, into the Councilmanic races. Yes, it's going to be - A Neighborhood Civic PAC Draft. He is - the President of the Mayfair Civic Association, and he was also - Henry Kissinger's Security Advisor.

Draft Scott Cummings Super Bowl Fundraiser

2006-01-03T07:27:00.000-05:00

NEIGHBORHOOD CIVIC PAC
COMMITTEE TO DRAFT SCOTT CUMMINGS CITY COUNCIL 2007
SUPER BOWL PARTY FUNDRAISER
Sunday, February 5, 20065-10pm
Chickie's and Pete's on the Boulevard
11000 Roosevelt Blvd
Philadelphia, PA 19116
OPEN BAR/Buffet
Donation: $50.00 per person
If you are unable to attend, please consider a donation to:
Neighborhood Civic Political Action Committee
P.O. BOX 39548
Phila., PA 19136
Checks payable to: Neighborhood Civic PAC
“IT’S ALL ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOODS”
NEIGHBORHOODCIVICPAC.BLOGSPOT.COM
NEIGHBORHOODCIVICPAC@YAHOO.COM

Republican Governor Candidates on Display

2005-12-28T07:10:00.000-05:00

Evening with the GOP candidates for the 2006 Pennsylvania Governor’s Race
Jeff Piccola
Bill Scranton
Lynn Swann
Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Location: The Crystal Tea Room
The Wanamaker Building
100 Penn Square East,
9th Floor Philadelphia, PA
Time: 6:30pm – 7:30pm Check-in and Cocktails
7:30pm – 9:00pm
ProgramAdmission: Free
RSVP required at www.philadelphiayr.com
Business Attire Suggested
Event Details
This event is an opportunity for Philadelphia residents to meet the Republican candidates for the 2006 Pennsylvania Governor’s Race and to hear each candidate’s vision for the future of Pennsylvania. The evening will feature a keynote speech and question and answer session from each candidate. This event will draw an estimated 500 people. Invited attendees include the general membership of the Philadelphia Young Republicans as well as other Young Republican groups from southeastern PA. Other invited guests include PA Committee members, southeastern PA Republican elected officials, and Philadelphia ward leaders. This event will also be open to the general public. For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website at www.philadelphiayr.com.

Eyeing up the Contenders for 2007 Part 2

2005-12-24T07:21:00.000-05:00

Eyeing up the Contenders for 2007 Part 2
Second Round - On to the Republicans (Guaranteed two slots)
Jack Kelly (Incumbent)
Frank Rizzo Jr. (Incumbent)
James "Jamie" McDermott (Executive Director, Philadelphia Regional Port Authority, Perennial Candidate)
David Oh (Attorney, Green Beret, 2003 Candidate)
Sean Reilly (Attorney, Lobbyist, Almost a 2003 Candidate)
Kelly Preski (Political Consultant, Registered Nurse)
Scott Cummings (Civic Leader, Security Specialist, will probably go for the 6th District)
Marvin Barrish (Radio Personality)

Please Comment on any others that may should be added to this list or comment on whether some should not be on this list)

Emilio Agustin Vazquez for the 179th Legislative District

2005-12-23T07:27:00.000-05:00

Emilio Agustin Vazquez is looking to secure the Democratic Nomination for Bill Rieger's 174th Legislative District Seat. Mr. Vazquez, an employee of the Philadelphia Parking Authority who ran unsuccessfully for the Democrat Nomination in 2004, brings years of community involvement to the table in this District. He has worked tirelessly for the people in his community which has been under represented by Rieger for a long time. Too many times has Mr. Rieger been criticized for not adequately representing his District. The following are a few examples:
Ghost voting in the House of Representatives. Mr. Rieger would jam a wad of paper into his voting mechanism so that his vote would be recorded on days he was not in the State Capital. He did still collect his per diem for food and housing. Google "Rieger" and "Ghost Voting"
Living outside his District. Mr. Rieger has been living outside his District for quite some time although he still owns a property which he claims as his residence. Google "Bill Rieger" and "outside" and "district"
Absenteeism. Mr. Rieger has been absent a ridiculous amount of time from Harrisburg both in his capacity as a rank and file voter in the General Assembly to his committee post. Google "Bill Rieger" and "Absent"
Lack of a real District office. Would use the basement of one his legislative aides to serve as the District office as she collected rent for the like. Google "Bill Rieger" and "district office" and "basement".

***The above represents numerous violations, among others, of Bill Rieger's misrepresentation of his Legislative District. It is time for a change.

Can We Have Some Competition?

2005-12-23T06:29:00.000-05:00

There will be a Special Election called in the near future to fill the seat soon to be vacated by Controller Elect Alan Butkovitz. There will only be one candidate for that seat: John Sabatina, Jr. There were rumblings that Lisa Deeley was still interested but they have since fizzled out. There have been no Republicans mentioned at all for that seat. This District can still be a competitive District, but what is odd about the whole thing is whole people to tend to let John's father John Sabatina Sr. have his way with things. Having met John, the younger, he seems like a nice guy who also happens to be a lawyer. But the question remains, what has he done in the Community? This is not a criticism; rather it is a research project. John is going to become a Member of the General Assembly because 1. he is a Democrat and 2. because of who his father is. Now some may be saying this did not help Sharif Street in his failed bid to unseat Frank Oliver. No it did not help here, but that race had something that this one lacks: COMPETITION. Frank Oliver was an Incumbent with a long history and there was a race here. While in the 174th Legislative District, there is no competition. John's father wants John to have the seat and John will have it, nuf said. This is unacceptable. If there is a Republican or Democrat living in the 174th, you should look into running for this seat and help Democracy strive. This is not a Dictatorship.

Back with More Election Woes facing Philadelphia, and as always the Distrcit Attorney will do NOTHING

2005-12-16T08:53:00.000-05:00

Unity 2001 has failed to continously report its finance as is required. This PAC is headed by a member of the 34th Democratic Ward and has raised more than $600,000. This is no small sum but rather quite large. The Daily News stated that it would have been in the top 30 for fundraising. Yet they did not report it. The DA's spokesperson Cathie Abookire said that they reviewed the file and that it does not merit prosecution. She also looked into the free cheese give away a few months back and nothing was done. This is why Philadelphia was voted the #1 Fraud city in the US this year because our elected officials do not want to step in and rectify problems. Here, it could have very well been a mistake but any PAC handling that kind of money should have someone more responsible handling their finances. Oh and by the way, we have someone that plead guilty for fixing parking tickets last year sitting in a cushy job in City Hall.

Tom Knox is the First one out of the box with 2007 Mayoral Website

2005-11-17T07:37:00.000-05:00

knoxforphilly.com was launched yesterday.
Not the best website.
How soon can we expect the others to follow?

Eyeing up the Contenders for 2007 Part 1

2005-11-17T07:06:00.000-05:00

We will begin this study by looking at City Council Contenders on the Democrat side.
Jim Kenney (Incumbent)
Blondell Reynolds-Brown (Incumbent)
W. Wilson Goode, Jr. (Incumbent)
Juan Ramos (Incumbent)
Angel Ortiz (Former City Councilman)
Mark Cohen (State Representative)
Bill Greenlee (Chief of Staff - the late David Cohen)
Mike Driscoll (2003 Candidate, Business Owner - Also rumored for 6th District)
Sharif Street (Former State Rep Candidate, Attorney, Mayor's son)
Walt DeTreux (Former Staffer of Councilman Rick Mariano, Attorney)
Vernon Anastasio (Attorney, Civic Leader, RDA Employee, Former Candidiate for City Council 1st District 2003)
Please Comment on any others that may should be added to this list or comment on whether some should not be on this list)

Raj Launches Website

2005-11-17T07:03:00.000-05:00

Raj Bhakta, who will take on Allyson Schwartz has launched his website for his Congressional run for PA 13.
http://rajforcongress.com/

House Bill 1318 - Voter ID Required

2005-10-31T08:16:00.000-05:00

Photo ID may now be required to cast ballot. If you cannot present Photo ID or are Challenged, you would have to vote via provisional ballot. If you are unable to get an acceptable form of photo ID, you can sign an affidavit and request a non driver ID from the DMV. They will issue this for free.
This used to only pertain to first time voters, now all voters would have to show ID.

A Piece of the Bill:

B) NOTWITHSTANDING THE PROVISIONS OF 75 PA.C.S. § 1510(B) 12 (RELATING TO ISSUANCE AND CONTENT OF DRIVER'S LICENSE) TO THE 13 CONTRARY, THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SHALL ISSUE AN 14 IDENTIFICATION CARD DESCRIBED IN 75 PA.C.S. § 1510(B) AT NO COST 15 TO ANY REGISTERED ELECTOR WHO HAS MADE APPLICATION THEREFOR AND 16 HAS INCLUDED WITH THE COMPLETED APPLICATION A SIGNED AFFIDAVIT 17 STATING THAT THE ELECTOR IS UNABLE TO OBTAIN ANOTHER FORM OF 18 PHOTO IDENTIFICATION, INCLUDING A DRIVER'S LICENSE, THAT THE 19 ELECTOR IS UNABLE TO PAY THE REQUIRED FEE FOR THE IDENTIFICATION 20 CARD AND THAT THE ELECTOR IS A REGISTERED ELECTOR AS DEFINED IN 21 25 PA.C.S. § 1102 (RELATING TO DEFINITIONS).

This is only a House Bill and has not been voted into law yet. Other items included in this Bill are Absentee ballot requirements, people with felony convictions and people with Religious beliefs that conflict with Photo ID. How do you feel about this? Sound off.

http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/BI/BT/2005/0/HB1318P2366.HTM

Who Fills Mariano's Seat?

2005-10-20T21:53:00.000-04:00

With Rick Mariano almost certainly to vacate his City Council seat, the next logical question is, who gets it? It appears there have been some rumblings about Angel Cruz, but what about John Sabatina Jr who was planning to run for Alan Butkovitz's seat if Butkovitz won the Controller's race (Sabatina is already way ahead in name rec, labor support and money than other would be candidates). Nevertheless, maybe a deal would be struck where Lisa Deeley would be able to take Butko's seat thus keeping both factions happy. Any other names out there?
Nevertheless, we wish Councilman Mariano all the best as he deals with his inner struggles.

UPDATE - Wednesday, 10-26-05...
Rick Mariano was indicted yesterday and the Daily News has run a story about possible foes lining up for his seat. Angel Cruz was mentioned in the article as was , also mentioned were several familiar and past foes such as John Sabatina Sr, Maria Quinones Sanchez and Kathy Fitzpatrick. Lastly, another name that came out was Walt DeTreux, mariano's Former Chief of Staff. This could get interesting, more info available at http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/news/local/12998207.htm

MAYFAIR CIVIC PRESIDENT WEIGHS RUN FOR COUNCIL

2005-10-20T08:07:00.000-04:00

SCOTT CUMMINGS CONSIDERS CANDIDACY IN 6TH DISTRICT RACE AS REPUBLICAN

BY EDWARD VASSALLO
STAFF WRITER

Have you ever stopped and thought what you would do if elected to City Council?
Scott Cummings, President of the Mayfair civic Association, is currently weighing the pros and cons as he tries to decide whether or not to seek the Republican nomination in the Sixth Councilman District in 2007.

"Alot of people are trying to push me to do this", he said, "But if I am going to do this, it's not going to be for political reasons; it's going to be for community reasons."

Cummings, who works at The Philadelphia Parking Authority and previously worked for one Donald J. Trump, took over the civic association more than two years ago. Since then, he raised the membership from 10 to 1000. He reached out to other civic associations such as Holmesburg, Tacony and Wissinoming, in an effort to work together.

But what he calls his "biggest victory" is the agreement he made with the WOW Family Fun Center, which was a sore spot in the community because they would bus in teenagers in from other parts of the city.

In accordance of the agreement, WOW has Mayfair Civic nights as well as events for area schools. More importantly, Cummings, who said he used to receive phone calls from neighbors every Friday and Saturday night regarding WOW, has only received one complaint about the property since May.

" I have a love affair with Mayfair", he said," It's my neighborhood. I enjoy what I do. There's no perks, long hours and no pay, but I get the satisfaction of helping my neighbors. The one thing that you can give a community that can't be measured is your time."

With City Councilwoman Joan L. Krajewski(D-6) not expected to seek another term, Cummings said he needs to decide if helping his neighbors is something he wants to do on a broader scale in City Council.

Politically, he would need the support of House Speaker John M. Perzel( R-172). On the Democratic side, should Krajewski decide not to run, State Rep. Michael P. McGeehan (R-173) is widely expected to announce his candidacy.

"This is the hardest decision I've ever made", he said, " But the deciding factor will be my family. It all revolves around my family. The hardest part is going to be balancing my time
with them. How do you keep everybody happy? It's a difficult decision to make."

Sam Mirarchi, who lost his bid for State Senate against Sen. Michael Stack(D-5) last year, approached Cummings to throw his political hat in the ring, Cummings said.

"I am not a political animal by trade", Cummings said, "But I was honored to explore the opportunity."

The Draft Scott Cummings for City Council Committee has already held fundraisers attended by hundreds of people.

"I'm honored by the out-pouring of support" Cummings said. "I've had alot of people come up to me and say, "We are pulling for you Scott."

If he does run and win, one thing that will change is he will step down as president of Mayfair Civic.
"It's only fair to give someone else a shot," he said.

Other than that, Cummings still plans to live on Friendship Street and he plans to coach with the Holy Terrors.

"I am not about politics," he said. " I am about the neighborhoods." "Win, lose or draw, I like what I do."

You can reach Edward J. Vassallo by calling 215-969-5100, or at http://us.f515.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=evassallo@newsgleaner.com.

We've heard about Driscoll, McGeehan, Cummings and Krajewski, what about Bednarek? (From "The Public Record")

2005-10-20T08:05:00.000-04:00

Bednarek Touted For 6th District
Martin Bednarek is being pressured to consider a run for the 6th Councilmanic District seat now held by Councilwoman Joan Krajewski, who has given indications she will not be seeking re-election.
The Washington Savings Bank president, who is also a member of the City's School Reform Commission, isn't saying a word. He's mum on the subject, despite repeated efforts to get him to confirm or deny his interest.
Notwithstanding, a grass roots move is swelling up in the Northeast District long considered Krajewski territory. Having served as leader of the 64th ward, the post now held by his wife Lorraine. He has been a staunch ally of Councilwomen Krajewski through her tenure.
It is doubtful he'll make any comments, since his position on the School Reform Commission could be effected if he announced his intentions to run. Other wards in the district include the 41st, 45th, 54th, 55th, 56th, 62nd, 64th and 65th.

Scott Cummings' Letter in Support of Speaker Perzel

2005-10-20T07:45:00.000-04:00

Letters back Perzel
To the editor:
As president of the Mayfair Civic Association, I have been involved for a number of years now in working with many people to help make the Northeast the best it can be. In all the time I have been involved, there has been one constant ingredient in that fight to improve and protect our quality of life in the Northeast - John Perzel.
Local Northeast State Rep. John Perzel has been one of the leading advocates for the Northeast, setting partisan differences aside and working with countless local residents and civic groups. Perzel has worked with our civic group as well as the Mayfair Community Development Corporation to create a vision and long term plan for Mayfair.
Perzel has helped focus efforts on economic development projects like the Devon Theater project, as well has the building of the new Lincoln High School and Mayfair's own local community center. He's helped organize and fund the Frankford Avenue clean up efforts as well as helping to develop a long term business plan for the Avenue. And Perzel stood by our firefighters to insure that they receive adequate medical care when fighting Hep. C.
In spite of all that John Perzel has done and continues to do for the Northeast and Philadelphia as a whole, there are still some who are willing to resort to low blow attacks on Mr. Perzel for purely partisan purposes.
The interesting thing about these partisan snipers is that you never see them at any civic meetings or neighborhood clean ups. They criticize but seem to be unwilling to expend their own time or energy to get involved and help make Mayfair and the Northeast the best it can be.
Scott Cummings

Can Raj Turn the Tables and Tell Allyson Schwartz, "You're Fired!"?

2005-10-19T07:42:00.000-04:00

We would like to get into the mindset of residents of PA-13. Can Raj Bhakta, of The Apprentice, be triumphant in a bid to unseat Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz?

Brief synopsis - Raj was born in Philadelphia (Frankford/Oxford Circle) area and raised in Blue Bell. He currently resides in Fort Washington. Raj became famous while appearing on Donald Trump's hit show, The Apprentice. Before venturing into the world of reality television, Raj, a graduate of Boston College, was a successful real estate entrepreneur. He appears to exemplify the American dream. As a grandson of a shoeless goat herder and Immigrant Indian father and an Irish mother, Raj took advantage of his upbringing and attended the prestigious Hill School. All that aside, will Raj be able to receive to Republican endorsement for the 13th Congressional District and if so will he be able to defeat Allyson Schwartz, a longtime politician with plenty of cash on hand, who leans more to the left than her District would appear?
Who will be the other Republican nominees? NE Chamber pres Al Taubenberger? Montco DA Bruce Castor (already out)? Attorney Marina Kats? or will someone else throw their name into the ring? Lastly, is Allyson beatable?

Comments Appreciated...

Mayfair Civic Association Meeting Thursday Night

2005-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

MAYFAIR CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING
DATE: Thursday October 20, 2005
TIME: 7PM
LOCATION: Mayfair Elementary School
TOPICS:
1. New Membership - Applications and dues ($5) will be accepted for those interested in joining.
2. "Mayfair Proud" and "Not For Sale" will be distributed to members.
3. Joining Mayfair Townwatch
4. Updates
a. Abandoned Lot at 3400 Cottman Ave.
b. Lincoln High School Update
c. WOW Skating Rink Update
d. Rental property update
5. Zoning Issues
6. Abandoned Vehicles
7. Open Discussion
If there are any questions, Please Contact Mayfair Civic Assoc. Pres Scott Cummings at 215-776-6777 or http://us.f356.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=mayfaircivic2003@aol.com or Joe DeFelice at 215-292-3926 or at josephjdefelice@yahoo.com.
If you cannot attend the meeting but would like to join please remit 2005 membership dues in the amount of Five Dollars ($5.00) toMayfair Civic Association7201-07 Frankford Ave.Philadelpia, PA 19135
*If you are joining for the first time, please include your name, address, phone number and email address with payment. Also list the name of other members of your household.
SEE YOU ON THURSDAY
PLEASE JOIN AND TAKE OWNERSHIP IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Rest in peace David Cohen

2005-10-05T07:16:00.000-04:00

Since all politics are local, you couldn't get more local than David Cohen. He was a fighter and will be missed.

Denny O'Brien's 5K Run (Per Ed Dixon)

2005-10-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

All,
On Sunday, October 16, the above race will take place to benefit various Youth Athletic Clubs in Northeast Philly. Last year's race initiated at Father Judge H.S. with the course structured throughout portions of Mayfair through Torresdale. However, due to scheduling conflicts at Father Judge, the race will take place at and around the NE Phila. Airport.
The run begins at 9 AM with an award ceremony to commence at 10:30 AM. The walk will be held prior to the run at 8:15 AM. Pre-registration reservations (prior to 10/9) costs $15 for both the race and run; entry is $20 after 10/9. Registration will be held from 7:15 AM the morning of up until 10 minutes prior for those participating. All other donations are welcome as well.
Checks payable to:
Philadelphia Athletic Charities
611 Jamestown Street
Philadelphia, PA 19128

Regarding entry forms, I have copies that can be faxed or mailed. Any other questions/details needed, please ask and please forward to anyone who may be interested.
Hope you can participate one way or another...needless to say, it's for an outstanding cause.

Thank you,
Edward J. Dixon

Perzel to Host Senior and Safe Neighborhood Expos

2005-09-30T07:15:00.000-04:00

Rep. John Perzel (R-Philadelphia) will host his district's senior expos Thursday, Oct. 20, at Vogt Playground, 6700 Cottage Street, Philadelphia, and Thursday, Oct. 27, at Fox Chase Recreation Center, Rockwell and Ridgeway Streets, Philadelphia. Both events will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"These annual exhibitions provide senior citizens and their families with resources, information and products that help foster healthy and productive lifestyles, as well as an opportunity to learn about issues important to them," said Perzel. "Admission is free, and information is available all in one convenient location."
Nearly 50 vendors will be on hand to offer information on government services, volunteer opportunities, health care and elder care, insurance, and estate and financial planning.
Perzel also announced that his annual Youth and Safe Neighborhood Expo will be held Friday, Oct. 7, from 7-9 p.m., at the Northeast Community Center. Representatives from more than 30 community organizations, as well as local law enforcement officials, will be at the event with information on how to keep families and neighborhoods safe. There will also be a special appearance by the McGruff the Crime Dog.
Admission is free for all events. For more information, contact either of Perzel's district offices, 7518 Frankford Avenue, (215) 331-2600, or 8140 Verree Road, (215) 725-2100.
Rep. John Perzel172nd DistrictSpeaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives(215) 331-2600(717) 787-2016www.johnperzel.comContact: Beth A. WilliamsPress Secretary(717) 783-8125http://www.pahousegop.com/

Neighborhood Civic PAC and Mayfair Civic Association Team up to Rectify Neighborhood Problems

2005-09-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

On Thursday Evening, the Neighborhood Civic PAC and the Mayfair Civic Association will be teaming up to address a problem in the Mayfair Community. We previoulsy posted about this issue http://neighborhoodcivicpac.blogspot.com/2005/09/we-need-to-transform-this-blighted.html. There is a patch of land that has been neglected for far too long. This patch is wedged between the 3400 blocks of Cottman and Ryan Avenue and the 7300 block of Crispin Street. On Thursday September 29, 2005 there will be a meeting of all concerned citizens with regard to this property. This meeting will take place on the lot in question. For more information please contact Mayfair Civic Pres Scott Cummings at 215-776-6777 or at mayfaircivic2003@aol.com or Contact the Neighborhood Civic PAC at 215-292-3926 or neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com. The goal of this meeting is to get inside the minds of the neighbors of this area to help determine the course of action that needs to be taken

Raj for Congress?

2005-09-22T07:50:00.000-04:00

Raj Bhakta is a Neighborhood kind of guy, believe it or not. This isnt an old school definition of Neighborhood Guy, rather an updated one. Raj was born in Frankford and spent half his time growing up in Mayfair, where half his family still lives today. Raj can walk in any corner bar in the City and feel comfortable which may seem odd due to his Hill School pedigree. It is good to see a young guy like this using celebrity for the good of the populace. Good Luck Raj.

Courtesy of PhillyBurbs

Reality TV star looks to trump Schwartz
By SARAH LARSON
The Intelligencer
He was known for his bow tie and flirtatious ways on "The Apprentice," and now he's flirting with a run for Congress.
Raj Bhakta, former contestant on Donald Trump's reality show, said he is contemplating challenging Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz in next year's election for the 13th District.
"I think Allyson Schwartz is a formidable opponent, clearly. At the same time, I think she's beatable," Bhakta said, adding that he wants to run "because I think it's very important to have a fresh, progressive, conservative voice representing the parts of the country that are not necessarily blue and not necessarily red."
Bhakta, a 29-year-old businessman from the Fort Washington area, is a Republican. He said he has talked to Montgomery County GOP chairman Ken Davis and Philadelphia GOP leader Vito Canuso and plans to go to Washington, D.C., next week to talk to the National Republican Congressional Committee.
Davis - who said he never watched "The Apprentice" - said he had no trouble taking Bhakta seriously.
"Any candidate who decides to do this and is as organized and as thoughtful as I think he is, you have to take them seriously," Davis said Tuesday. "He has a lot of ideas, and he's a very bright young man. I think he is a serious candidate."
For now, he's also the only GOP candidate. Montgomery County District Attorney Bruce Castor had expressed interest in the office, but Davis said he since has decided against it.
Still, the Democratic incumbent is not showing signs of worry. Schwartz's staffers shrugged off an "Apprentice" challenge.
"In the nine months that Allyson's been in office, she has clearly delivered for the residents of Philadelphia and Montgomery County," said her chief of staff, Daniel McElhatton, pointing out that she gave a check for $1 million to Hatboro on Tuesday for street improvements. "I think that level of delivering for the people of the 13th will certainly be rewarded through re-election."
Bhakta grew up in Blue Bell, the son of an Irish immigrant mother, Mary Mullaney, and an Indian immigrant father, Bharat Bhakta. His father owned new car dealerships, Raj Toyota and Raj Chevrolet, which have since been sold and renamed.
DisplayAds ('Middle');

Bhakta went to the Hill School near Pottstown, a private, college preparatory boarding school, then to Boston College, graduating with a degree in history and economics and a minor in finance. He now owns two businesses; one, Vanquish Holdings, deals with real estate, and the other, Automovia, deals with the valuation of used cars.
He also founded a group called the Coalition for the Advancement of the Republic. A blog on the Web site outlines his take on current issues, from foreign policy and immigration to education and social security.
Before he can hammer his opinions into a campaign platform, however, Bhakta said he knows he has a monumental task: figuring out where the cash will come from.
"Everywhere I've gone, even before they ask me what I believe, they ask how much money I can raise," Bhakta said. "For one district in Congress, to know that $10 million could be spent on the election, aggregately. Well, something's wrong there."
As for his chances of winning, even Davis was cautious.
"For somebody who's not well-known by the electorate, except for people who watch the television show, I would say it's an uphill battle," Davis said. "But he knows that, and if he catches fire with the committee people, well, elections can be funny things sometimes. He could be a good candidate, but it's a question of money and message."
On "The Apprentice," Bhakta gained a reputation as a ladies' man, asking for tennis star Anna Kournikova's phone number and even flirting with Donald Trump's receptionist after Trump had just fired him.
Bhakta dismissed the banter as the makings of "good television" and said he hopes women voters would see him as "a forceful advocate for women to play a full and pre-eminent, certainly equal, role in society."
"Another girl who got fired from The Apprentice is off eating bugs," Bhakta said. "I've gotten off and tried to talk about issues I think are important for the country. I care deeply, and that's why I'm doing this."
Sarah Larson can be reached at (215) 345-3187 or slarson@phillyBurbs.com.

Response to Email from Councilwoman Tasco and Apology to Cherelle Parker along with the Email from Ms. Tasco

2005-09-20T08:04:00.000-04:00

Dear Ms. Tasco,

I have read your email and compliment you on your professionalism when dealing with this matter. Let it be known that the Neighborhood Civic PAC prides itself on holding up the integrity of the neighborhoods as well as the value that comes with voting. As you may know, Philadelphia was recently named the #1 City for Voter Fraud in the United States by the American Center for Voting Rights. This is an issue that we hold very strongly. This is the City where our republic was born and to see this kind of negative coverage totally appalls us. Even worse than that is the response (or lack thereof) from many politicians who simply just swept this under the rug.
With respect to Ms Parker's case, we offer an apology to her and her supporters. We do not know Ms Parker nor should we have any ill will towards her. However, when looking at the race from the outside, it appeared improper that Ms Parker was in the polling place she did not represent. Yes, we are aware of roving watcher certificates but were confused by Ms Parker telling the Representative from the Committee of Seventy that she just finished voting. Nevertheless, we were excited to see the Committee, under the new direction of Mr Stalberg, taking a stance with respect to ballot integrity and voter fraud and we may have jumped the gun by taking their words at face value. Next, we will be sure to research the facts more clearly. With respect to allegations of voter fraud in the 50th ward, 200th legislative district or 9th council district, we am not sure of what actually exists, but would not want to jump the gun in claiming that there are. That would require some research on our part.
Thank you,
Neighborhood Civic PAC

This is the email we received from Ms. Tasco

From: Tasco
Date:Sat, 17 Sep 2005 19:54:43 EDT
Subject:Cherelle Paqrker
To:neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com

Please read the Committee of Seventy's web site and see that they have finally admitted that they were wrong and have issued an apologyYou should not jump to conclusion and make charges without having all of the facts. That is what the Committee of Seventy did. If we are to trust the organization which is charged with overseeing elections, we must have faith and confidence that they will conduct their business in a fair and honest manner.There has never been any charges of election fraud in our 50th ward, 200th legislative district or 9th council district and I want the record to show that.If your organization desires creditability, I suggest that you conduct yourself in a manner that will gain respect.

Cherelle Parker Accused of Election Impropriety. Is this a surprise,? No, especially not when Coupled with Our DA's Own Impropriety

2005-09-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

Once again, the city of Philadelphia receives a black eye. Cherelle Parker won in a landslide victory on Tuesday Night, but not without cheating. For years people have cheated in the Number 1 Fraud City in America and the new State Representative from the 200th legislative District is no different. It is about time the Committee of Seventy, under the new leadership of Zachary Stalberg, got off their tails and made a stink about this. Lets hope this doesn't go away. Some may look and say, "She only brought lunch" or "she only stopped in to say,'hi'". This is not the point. She violated the Election Code. But no one is going to care, tomorrow this will be an afterthought and she will do the same thing next November.

The article even says that the DA's office will look into the complaint. We all know that that is not going to happen. When they were giving awayt free cheese, she was supposed to look into that incident. Well, guess what, after looking at the numbers received from the City Commissioners office, she did not looks into because she wins big in fraud areas. The Democrats in the 35th Ward 20th Division tried to lure voters with cheese and DA Abraham was supposed to look into it. Nevertheless, she has failed to do so maybe because she won that division over Seth Williams with 76% of the vote (this is a housing project) when she only won this division in 2001 over Talmadge by 9 votes however the division right next door 35-20 she only by 1 vote. Why would she want to look into the free cheese it helped out. Also, a major problem in this city is voting in bars and she has the power to step in bc it is illegal and order that polling place moved, but in the 1st ward 6th division she received 84% of the vote (43-9). Also another illegal polling place is the one in Sen. Fumo's office, of course she doesn't want to step in and change that she won that division by 85% of the vote (56-10). It appears Ms Abraham is part of the problem not the solution. The polling place which was house in a bar in the 48th ward 4th division was changed before this Primary after the change she won the division by 2 votes whereas in 2001 she lost this division by 23 votes....

So anyway, Cherelle Parker, congrats on being elected to the State House, even if you did have to do it the old fashioned way.
The Following is the text of the article courtesy of the Daily News...
Accusations of election impropriety spoil Parker's celebration
By DAVE DAVIES
daviesd@phillynews.com
Cherelle Parker had a rough first day as a state representative-elect yesterday.
Within 24 hours of her landslide win in a special election in Northwest Philadelphia, the watchdog group Committee of Seventy announced it has referred several alleged election code violations by Parker to the District Attorney's office.
In a three-page statement issued late yesterday, Committee of Seventy accused Parker of repeatedly entering polling places in violation of the state election code, and of buying lunch for election officials, creating "the appearance of impropriety."
Parker said if her actions violated the election code, it's news to her.
"I visited polling places throughout the 200th legislative district yesterday," Parker said in a telephone interview. "I know you can't engage in electioneering within 10 feet of the polling place, and I didn't."
"I went into polling places to make sure people got their lunch," Parker said. "My campaign bought lunch for committee people and election workers as is customary. It's been done for years. If that's a problem with the election code, that's not something I or my campaign was familiar with."
Committee of Seventy didn't cite the free lunch as a violation of law. But the group's policy director, Christopher Sheridan, said the election code prohibits anybody from entering polling places except voters, election workers and certified poll watchers.
The Committee of Seventy statement said Parker had entered polling places throughout the day even after her campaign was contacted by Committee of Seventy and the District Attorney's office.
"It was election day. There was a lot going on," Parker said. "I remember somebody saying something that you can't campaign in a polling place, but I wouldn't have thought twice about it, because I never do that."
The Committee of Seventy statement said the first time Parker was observed coming out of a polling place in Chestnut Hill, she told a staff member she had just finished voting and was going to visit other polling places.
The committee found that was not her polling place, which Sheridan said suggested she'd misled their staff. Parker said she never misled anyone.
"Someone may have misunderstood what I said," Parker said.
Spokeswoman Cathie Abookire of the District Attorney's office said the office would look into the complaint.

We Need to Transform this Blighted Area

2005-09-02T08:10:00.000-04:00

This is an issue that concerns several neighbors in Mayfair. Between the 3400 blocks of Cottman and Ryan Avenues and the 7300 Block of Crispin St (About one block west of Cottman and Frankford) there is a privately owned lot in the shape of a triangle that has been blighted for far too long. We need to take back this property for the public good. Nevertheless, this property would have no value for residential or commercial purposes as it is in the driveway of all three of those blocks. One possible use for this area is a Civic park to used by the residents of those blocks for their enjoyment rather than a place to illegally park their cars and dump their trash (believe me people used to drink back there when I was a teenager - the trees and weeds had been terribly overgrown creating a good camuflage for those that want to conceal themselves from the outside community, however CLIP has stepped in and helped rectify that problem, but they can only do so much). We are going to call a neighbors meeting next week. If you would like more information on this, email the Neighborhood Civic PAC at neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com.

Community Leader Vern Anastasio calls upon Frank DiCicco to Clean up 9th Street

2005-09-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is the kind of stuff that the Neighborhood Civic PAC is here to promote: communities being their own voice, leaders taking charge and civic leaders promoting the values of their community.

Courtesy of Politicspa.com

For Immediate Release
1 September 2005
215-435-5857

Anastasio Calls on DiCicco to Remove Blight in Passyunk Square
---------Former Democratic candidate for City Council Vern Anastasio called
on 1st District Councilman Frank DiCicco to “develop and implement an
economic development plan for South 9th Street from Washington Avenue to
Federal Street” in the South Philly neighborhood of Passyunk Square.
This section of the Philadelphia Italian Market has been left to decay after
a DiCicco plan to bring a Value Plus Department store to the corridor failed
to materialize several years ago. DiCicco had removed all sidewalk vendors
from the block in anticipation of the Value Plus deal. As a result, blight
and a dangerous beer deli now line the last block of the historic 9th Street
Italian Market.
“In 1994, Joe Vignola and Senator Vince Fumo kick-started the revitalization
of the 9th Street Market. New sidewalks were installed, new streets were
poured, new sewer inlets were put in, merchants suffered through months of
construction and relocation and new awnings began to be installed in
earnest. But over a decade later, almost half of the 9th Street market is
boarded-up and left for ruin because of Councilman DiCicco's lack of vision
for economic renewal from Washington Avenue to Federal Street”, Anastasio
announced.
Anastasio continued, “If, after 12 years, Frank DiCicco doesn’t have a
vision or a plan to revitalize this south Philadelphia block, then he should
step aside and let someone with an actual plan give it a try. The
hard-working volunteers of the Passyunk Square neighborhood deserve a
thoughtful policy.”
Anastasio pointed to the hulking block-long blighted property known as the
“ice house” on south 9th street as the cornerstone upon which his
revitalization plan would be built. Anastasio’s plan calls for the
long-abandoned property to be condemned by the city of Philadelphia, a
responsible developer located and the property conveyed to that developer
for residential and commercial use. Anastasio’s plan would also include the
distribution of façade improvement grants to other property owners to fix
smaller properties.
“If Frank DiCicco spent as much time helping neighbors revitalize their
neighborhoods as he does helping developers with their pet projects, this
part of Passyunk Square would be thriving by now”, Anastasio concluded.
In 1994, the Editorial Board of the Philadelphia Daily News praised the
city’s efforts to revitalize the 9th street market. The Daily News
Editorial Board wrote “credit goes to Anastasio” for “spearheading the
effort” while he worked as a legislative aide to the former 1st District
Councilman, Joe Vignola. Anastasio is a fourth-generation Italian Market
resident and is rasing his two children around the corner from his childhood
home.

Northeast News Gleaner Highlights Several Neighborhood Leaders

2005-09-01T17:30:00.000-04:00

Movers and Shakers
By: Edward J. Vassallo and Lauren Fritsky
09/01/2005

A Salute to leaders in Northeast Philadelphia

Martin Bednarek -
Motivated by Personal Pride
Martin Bednarek serves Northeast Philadelphia not only as CEO of Washington Savings Banks but also as a member of the School Reform Commission for the School District of Philadelphia and chairman of the St. Hubert High School President's Advisory Board.

How do you see your role in the community?
As CEO of Washington Savings Bank, I am sensitive to the financial needs of the community and thus provide personalized services. All of our five offices, including our new headquarters, are located in Philadelphia. My employees and I work closely with the neighborhood civic groups and schools near our branches to better the neighborhoods. At no other bank can you call up and speak to the CEO directly. I have in the community. I and my fellow members of the School Reform Commissioners are working tirelessly to improve the education of the children in the district by increasing teacher training, making the schools safer, upgrading the learning facilities, and encouraging partnership with the business community to help stabilize and better our neighborhoods. I also serve as the chairman on the President's Advisory Board at St. Hubert High School and am on various other local boards. I have been a coach of various youth sports for over 30 years teaching young people not only athletic skills but also life lessons to help them grow and aspire to positive goals.
When did you know that you had become a leader?
When I was a junior in high school I was asked to organize a school spirit day, which incorporated motivational speakers and a sports rally. I made a decision to bring in some former drug addicts to speak about their lives and how important it was for us to stay in school and not to abuse drugs. When I looked out into the audience and saw how every person was focused on these speakers, I knew I had done something special.
Who are your role models?
First and foremost are my parents, Joe and Norma, who gave me the foundation of how to treat people with respect. My dad taught me never to lie-if you don't lie you don't have to remember what you told someone; tell the truth and you won't go wrong. My mom taught me to treat people as I would like to be treated. Cuncilwoman Joan Krajewski is not only a friend but also a mentor. No one loves Northeast Philadelphia more than Joan. She does so much for our neighborhoods and is devoted to our community.
What motivates you?
Personal pride motivates me. I enjoy interacting with people, especially children and senior citizens. There is so much to learn from their perspectives. Giving of myself to others has always been rewarding. What image do you hope to convey to the community? I hope that I convey an image of personal integrity, that I am a truly caring person who is a good listener in tune with the needs of the community. Most people know that I am an accessible person and a problem solver. If I give you my word that I will commit myself to a project, then you know that you can count on me 100 percent.
What is your favorite time of day?
I feel good about most of my day. But my most productive time is midnight to about 3:00 a.m. My family is asleep, the phones are quiet and I can get a lot of paperwork and planning done. I also enjoy dinnertime with my kids.
How do you unwind after a long week?
Friday night is "date night" with my wife Lorri. We've been married 25 years this September and after a hectic week of meetings and activities, we've made it a habit of setting aside time alone together to reconnect and catch up on each other. We usually go to one of the many great restaurants in the Northeast, sometimes a movie or a concert.
What are your hobbies?
I am a "gym rat". I love basketball and organized a girls AAU basketball program (Northeast Rockers) here in the Northeast nearly 10 years ago. I am also involved in the Northeast Girls Inter-Club Basketball League. I love to coach and have been very successful because of my positive coaching style. I try to bring out the best in players through respect and honesty. The greatest thrill for me is when my former players call me up to ask for advice or to just chat.
Give us a little know fact about yourself. I love to wear Jerry Garcia ties. The late Grateful Dead band member was an artist whose works have been incorporated into a clothing line of men's ties. I also enjoy listening to the music of Barry White.
____________________________________________________________
Patricia DeAngelis -
Advocated for those in needPatricia DeAngelis,
President and CEO of Nazareth Hospital, began her career as a nurse and now runs a hospital that was ranked #1 for stroke care in PA three years in a row. The Catholic Leadership Institute recently named her one of the 2005 recipients of the Award for Outstanding Catholic Leadership. She runs the hospital while keeping with the traditions of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth and also contributes to the community.
When did you know you had become a leader?
In nursing school.
How do you see your role in the community?
I am an advocate for those in need. What image do you hope to convey to the community? Excellence, quality, safety, service and love.
What is your favorite time of day?
Morning. It is another gift and another opportunity to grow and impact the lives of others.
How do you unwind after a long day/week?
Embarrassed to say, but I read People magazine!
Who are your role models?
Mother Theresa; Pope John Paul II; my husband.
What motivates you?
Need and love.
What are your hobbies?
Kayaking, walking and playing ball with my sons and husband.
Give us a little known fact about you?
I met the Pope - It was awesome!____________________________________________________________
Gary Cozens -
His credo is helping others
Gary Cozens works at Heritage Insurance, but he is best known for his work with the youth of Mayfair and as the driving force behind the Mayfair-Holmesburg Thanksgiving Parade. Each year, thousands of Mayfair families gather on Frankford Ave. for what has become the largest neighborhood parade in Philadelphia.
When did you know you had become a leader?
My first clue was when the News Gleaner contacted me to complete this questionnaire. Prior to that, I was just a volunteer offering my help as needed.
How do you see your role in the community?
I feel all citizens should step forward and take whatever necessary action is needed to make their community or neighborhood a better place in which to live and raise their families. Don't wait or expect someone else to do it for you. I feel any positive action is always better than a reaction.
What image do you hope to convey to the community?
I hope that my image is taken as a neighbor that cares about others.
What is your favorite time of day?
My favorite time of day usually comes when I least expect it. To bring a smile, or make a difference in someone's life is always my favorite time of day.
How do you unwind after a long day/week?
Usually, I take off my shirt and tie and veg out with my family. Nothing like watching the History or the Western channel after a long day.
Who are your role models?
Those who enjoy the same things that bring a smile to my face. I respect those community members that honestly care about others.
What motivates you?
Doing a good job at what I attempt to do. Always expect the best from yourself and others.
What are your hobbies?
When my children were younger, I enjoyed getting involved in their sports activities. Now that my girls are older, I enjoy cooking for family and friends as we come together on special occasions. My deviled eggs are supposed to be good.
Give us a little known fact about you?
I'm the only "COZENS" in the phone book. And, I was "All Public" in fencing at Frankford High School. Everyone asks - which kind, cyclone or picket?____________________________________________________________
Reese Hartey -
Striving for a better Northeast
As Chairman of the Mayfair Community Development Corporation, Reese Hartey works to strengthen the community by redeveloping the Devon Theater and through the construction of the John M. Perzel Community Center at Mayfair Playground, which will be opening this fall.
How do you see your role in the community?
I see my role as chairman of the Mayfair CDC as the advocate for the community. As that advocate I work with other organizations within the community, city and state to make sure that Mayfair is well represented and is portrayed in the positive light that it should be. As the chair of the CDC, I believe it is my responsibility to develop programs that will benefit the Mayfair community and make sure that I identify the resources needed to make that program viable.
When did you know you had become a leader?
My first experience at real leadership was as a 20-year-old sailor on board a nuclear submarine and I was put in charge of the forward electrical section. Since then I think I have grown as a leader by watching the examples of others, Tom Forkin for one, and having the benefit of working with and being surrounded by great people.
Who are your role models?
President Reagan, Saint John Neumann, my wife, Teresa. My wife and I have four boys, between them and me it is a full-time job and no matter what the dilemma she seems to pull it off.
What image do you hope to convey to the community?
That the CDC is here to make sure that Mayfair continues to be a great place to live and work and that people working together can be a force for positive change in the community.
What is your favorite time of day?
At home, I really like the evenings. Things are usually quieter and I can get caught up with the family. Down the shore, I like the mornings before anyone else gets up, to get a cup of coffee and read the paper.
How do you unwind after a long week?
I spend time with my family, read and watch old movies.
What are your hobbies?
I read and I enjoy watching my boys play sports.
Give us a little known fact about you.
I took three weeks and drove cross-country in a 1967 Mustang after getting out of the Navy.
____________________________________________________________
Sister Francesca Onley -
Devotion to God, fellow man
Sister Francesca Onley has been president of Holy Family University since 1981. She has received recognition is several publications, including the Philadelphia Business Journal and the National Association of Women Business Owners, where she was listed as one of the 2004 Women of Distinction. As a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, she receives no pay for her work as university president, but remains an integral part of the institution's continual growth and success.
When did you know you had become a leader?
Leadership is a "state of becoming." It is a never-ending process of personal development that never ends.
How do you see your role in the community?
As a religious woman dedicated to service and leadership for others.
What image do you hope to convey to the community?
The image of a peaceful, progressive educator working for the benefit of others as a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth.
What is your favorite time of day and why?
Early morning quiet time to pray, think and plan.
How do you unwind after a long day/week?
Read, pray, enjoy a movie!
Who are your role models?
All those who live around me and those who have similar goals.
What motivates you?
Other persons who see that the needs of others must be met.
What are your hobbies?
Reading.
Give us a little-known fact about you.
I'm a "Mayfair girl" who has traveled the world in fulfillment of my religious and educational responsibilities.
____________________________________________________________
Tom Forkin -
Heart never far from Mayfair
Tom Forkin, Vice President of the Mayfair CDC, is an entrepreneur and former PIDC member. No matter what area of the city he is developing, his heart is never far from Mayfair, a community he has already helped revitalize in a few short years.
How do you see your role in the community?
Advocate, community liaison and trouble-shooter
When did you know you had become a leader?
In my view, leadership evolves. It is earned and recognized over time. Hopefully, I am working to earn that label through my civic involvement and other activities.
Who are your role models?
Historic? JFK, RFK, Pope John Paul II. Personal? My dad.
What motivates you?
Personal sense of accomplishment; concrete results, betterment of neighborhood and helping people.
What image do you hope to convey to the community?
Accessibility and competence.
What is your favorite time of day?
Evening - time to relax (sometimes) and for family
How do you unwind after a long week?
Being with and doing things with my family (Donna, Tommy and Becky), going out to dinner and/or a ball game.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, walking, Eagles, Jersey Shore.
Give us a little known fact about you. I was on the field for part of BP during 1996 All-star game in Philadelphia.

Bob Lee responds yet again to Joe DeFelice's letter, guess someone hit a sore spot with Mr Lee.

2005-08-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

Letters In defense of city voting
RE THE LETTER "Voting for a better city" by Joseph J. DeFelice (Aug. 17):
We are confident that ward leaders, committeepersons, poll officials, and voters and media have seen the city commissioners' successful efforts in improving the city election systems during the past 10 years.
We implemented a new imaging system that enables production of books listing voter records and a digitized signature for use at the polls. We replaced our mechanical voting machines with a proven electronic voting system. We implemented a computerized system for producing and counting absentee and provisional ballots.
In 2004, we implemented the voter ID and provisional voting requirements of the Help America Vote Act during Philadelphia's most active and volatile election in more than 20 years, in which more than 672,000 Philadelphians voted.
Before Jan. 1, the commission will upgrade its electronic system to enable the visually impaired to vote independently.
Philadelphia is an older city and locating fully accessible polling places, with designated parking for the disabled within every election district is almost impossible. A high percentage of our residents walk to the polls. It is vital to keep polls properly sized and in the division.
The city has 316 fully accessible polls, 675 where the building is accessible and 175 where portable ramps may provide access. We are researching properties in the other 500 divisions.
Mr. DeFelice was issued a Republican certificate for the 64th Ward, 11th Division for the May 17 election. State law limits each candidate to two watchers per division. The form submitted by the 64th Ward contains numerous entries contrary to state law, listing three-six individuals in 10 of the 18 Divisions and one for a division that doesn't exist.
It would be a waste of city taxpayer funds to procure a new county database. Before Jan. 1, the commission will move its data and operations onto the Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors. A more detailed response is at phillyrecord.com/2005/ 0825/0-article-09.html.
Bob Lee, Voter Registration Admin.
Philadelphia County
Reprinted Courtesy of Philly.com

Bob Lee responds to voter fraud issues on a blog in the comments section - guess he didnt want to respond in print media with his partisan rhetoric

2005-08-29T17:53:00.000-04:00

I am shocked (yeah, right) to learned that you failed to check into the facts regarding some of the allegations in the American Center for Voting Rights Report on fraud.
No. 1 - Had you check the archives of both the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Philadelphia Daily News from October 2004 you would have learned that some of these allegations were covered in articles by your corporation.
1. I had spoken to Inquirer reporters at length at the time. Rose Ciotta was covering the events regarding mailings from Republicans to "new" registrants that were returned undeliverable. My understanding is that they repeated requested that the Republican operatives provide them with copies of the returned envelopes or the names and addresses of the registrants to attempt to determine the facts. I do not believe the operatives provided them more than a handful of name, if any.
Although it is possible, we shouldn't assume that paid canvassers completed applications with the names and address of deceased. I explained to the Inquirer reporters some of the reasons why it may appear that a deceased individual submitted a new application according to data files (more on that below in my answer to a Pittsburgh reporter). At least they asked us. Victory 2004 failed to even attempt to check the facts, inquire as to the records, or provide the Inquirer or the Commission the names and addresses of the individuals for whom mailed was returned undeliverable.
Victory 2004 also failed to check Federal law, the National Voter Registration Act regarding the process for removing names from the files of eligible voters. At least the Inquirer reporters asked about the process. One of the primary reasons the NVRA was enacted was because jurisdictions were cancelling records merely because mailings were returned undeliverable without using alternative methods to verify the facts regarding the eligibility of the voter to be registered at the address. Federal Law prohibits the Commission from cancelling a record merely because mail is returned undeliverable. The Commission must first investigate. Federal Law also mandates that ALL voter removal programs be concluded no later than 90 days prior to an election. Within the 90 day period, Federal and State laws, and a 1998 Agreement in US District Court permit the counties to reject an application after investigating returned mail, however that process can only be used when the mail is returned within ten days of mailing; most are not.
The intent of Congress in the NVRA in administering voter registration files can be found in the Senate Conference Report 103-6 on Pages 3, and 18 - 20. Information on the process for Counties to investigate and reject applications can be found in Directives issued by Dick Filling, the Pennsylvania Commissioner of Elections, in June 1996, and again in September and October of 1998. These Directives were issued pursuant to a Settlement in US District Court in ACORN v. Ridge, and US v. Pennsylvania on the NVRA.
2. The 43 polling places listed in the ACVR Report are from a list of 63 polling places that the Republican operatives tried to have changed in the 2 weeks before the election. I will let the Inquirer and Daily News articles speak to that:
Daily News, October 19, 2004: A tally of election semi-dirty tricks - By WILLIAM BUNCH
Daily News, October 18, 2004: GOP fails in effort to move pollsLast-minute bid tried to relocate 63 mostly black polling places - By CHRIS BRENNAN
Inquirer, October 19, 2004: Accusations fly as GOP seeks to shift polling placesBy Michael Currie Schaffer
Daily News, Oct. 20, 2004: Elmer Smith GOP TACTIC: KEEPING BLACKS FROM VOTING
Daily News, Oct. 21, 2004: GOP loses poll shift planCity Commission refuses to change 63 locations - By CHRIS BRENNAN
The request to move the 63 polls included a request to move one from Senator Fumo's District Office, which is accessible due to a ramp, to a school which was located 5 voting Divisions away.
3. As far as the fact that the number of registered voters was nearly equal to the number of voting age citizens in Philadelphia, the authors of these reports failed to take into account the fact that the files included approximately 134,000 records designated as INACTIVE. These are records which are designated for cancellation after waiting the mandated 2 Federal General Elections of non-activity by the registrant. In December 2000 Philadelphia canceled approximately 22,400 of these Inactive records; in December 2002, approximately 119,000; and in December 2004 we canceled more than 68,000.
Once a record is designated INACTIVE we are prohibited from removing that record from the files of eligible voters unless the voter fails to contact our office or vote in any election in the period between the date the record was designated Inactive and the date of the second Federal General Election afterward, usually 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years after designation.
Philadelphia uses and fully complies with every single mandated and optional voter removal program to keep its files current.
As listed in the City Commissioner's 95th Annual Report for Year 2000: - In the 2000 Presidential General Election, Philadelphia had 1,025,498 records in the files of eligible voters, 848,903 were designated Active, and 176,595 Inactive. The voting turnout on these two designations clearly tell the story - 549,777 or 64.8% of Active registrants voted, while only 10,402, or 5.9% of Inactive registrants voted - It's simple, estimates are that approximately 75% - 80% of the Inactive registrants are no longer in Philadelphia and are not even here to vote. These records are merely waiting for the Federally mandated 2 Federal Election time clock to expire when the will be removed.
I would refer you to a paper from the Committee of 70 at:
http://www.seventy.org/nycu/2000/relocated.html
and this October 2004 response to Fox News:
http://mediamatters.org/items/200410250006
As a final note on this issues I would be much more concerned if the number of voters casting ballots exceeded the number of citizens registered. The highest turnout % per registration in recent years in Philadelphia was in Nov 1992 at 72.9%. Since the three ACVR officials mentioned in your article all had official campaign roles for Bush / Cheney 04 perhaps they should explain the election and registration statistics listed on the following sites for Wyoming first:
Nov 2004 - Number Registered = 232,396
http://soswy.state.wy.us/election/2004/gen-reg.htm
Nov 2004 - Total Number Votes Cast for President = 245,789
http://soswy.state.wy.us/election/2004/results/04-gsum.htm
I am making no assumptions regarding the above and I would guess the Wyoming Election Officials could explain the discrepancy if they were asked. That's my point. Before spreading urban legends maybe someone show check.
4. I can add nothing to the incident of the use of cheese in enticing voters as I was not involved in reviewing the issue and not aware of the facts. It does however remind me of an article I once read in the early eighties about someone giving twinkies and kool aid to voters at a senior citizen home in Minnesota.
5. Finally, when this ACVR Report surfaced I was contacted by a reporter from one of the Pittsburgh daily papers, either the Post-Gazette or the Tribune-Review, Below is what I told him:
One of the Pittsburgh newspapers called today regarding the release. I told him that these events were covered by the Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Daily News in October 2004, shortly before the election. He wasn't aware that these were old reports. I also explained that RSC issued a Press Release regarding these same polling places the day before the May 17, 2004 Primary.
I set him straight on the contents of request to move polling places, telling him to review the Philadelphia coverage that even local Republican Party officials distanced themselves from the request and the claims about the fraudulent registrations.
I told him that they wanted to move two divisions from an accessible facility, to a church two voting districts away that had ten steps (43rd Ward).
I told him that in S. Philadelphia they wanted to move two divisions from an accessible community room to a location two or three divisions away.
I explained that many, many Philadelphians walk to the polling places in the denser, older neighborhoods and that moving the polls further from the district would present barriers to seniors who may be able to walk two or three blocks but cannot walk 7 - 10 blocks.
I told him the Inquirer spoke to voters in the division where the bar was used and the voter told them it was no problem as the bar was closed and didn't sell alcohol during the time it was used for voting. I also told him how they failed to request to move a polling place out of a bar in a majority non-minority area. I also said they failed to address how many polling places in suburban or rural counties are located in VFW or sons of Italy Clubs that dispense liquor.
I also explained to him how one might think a deceased persons turned in a "new" application and that the Victory 2004 committee never provided the Inquirer with the names on the undeliverable mail as to enable them to determine the facts. I also explained that Victory 2004 never checked our records to determine the facts.
He asked if I was saying it wasn't true that 15 deceased individuals submitted "new" applicants and I said no, no one knows because no one checked the records.
I told him of the likely scenario:
15 new registrations for deceased individuals? Victory 2004 needed to check into the facts - besides not providing the Philadelphia Inquirer with the names of these purported new registrants they failed to check to determine why a deceased individual may have been mailed a new voter id card with a new date of registration.
Assuming that they mailed correspondence to the deceased "applicant" and it was returned to them undeliverable marked "deceased".
Without me knowing the names of the individuals - Want the likely answer to this mystery?
Simple - The deceased "new" registrants could merely be a deceased registrant's record being transferred to the home of a child or family member based upon change of address information submitted to the Post Office to transfer the deceased individuals mail so the family can take care of their personal affairs.
We run the NCOA program match, the NCOA vendor reports a change of address for the individual, we mail an NCA, and AVN and when family doesn't respond informing of that the individual is deceased and that the NCOA change was for them to continue getting the mail, then according to Federal and State law we transfer the record.
A new id card, with the new address, with a new date of registration is then mailed to the NCOA address. It is usually then that the family will call and since we can track the reason for the change we explain the process, they acknowledge they submitted an address change.
We inform them to mark the response form as "Deceased", sign it and note their relationship to the individual and mail it back.
When we get it we check the family members signature to confirm they are who they say they are and if so we cancel the record as deceased.
See, everyone jumps to conclusions without checking the facts first.
I also told him that the news coverage in Philadelphia on the polling place change request apparently resulted in USDOJ contacting me and requesting that if anything further occurred to contact them and that they would have a presence in Philadelphia on election day.
At least the Pittsburgh paper took the time to call.
Unfortunately most just jump to conclusions without checking the law, the facts and the records.
As you have duly noted, the ACVR is far from being "non-partisan". The Report is merely another rehashed attempt to turn some of the allegations into fact, without the benefit of reviewing ALL of the facts and factors involved.
Bob LeeVoter RegistrationPhiladelphia County

Posted by: Bob August 6, 2005 11:02 AM

Bob Lee Responds to Joey DeFelice's Daily News Letter

2005-08-25T08:10:00.000-04:00

Why Philadelphians Vote On Cutting Edge
by Bob Lee
Voter Registration Administrator
Philadelphia County

The Daily News published an opinion letter by a Joseph J. DeFelice titled Voting for a Better City., charging "Elections in this city are very old-fashioned."
Every Republican and Democrat Ward Leader, Committee Person, Polling Place Official, and our voters and media know different!

They have experienced the improvements made in the election systems in Philadelphia during the past ten years.

In 1995, the City Commissioners successfully implemented the Federal mandates of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 and has utilized every voter removal program, and every address update program required and permitted by Federal and State law. The City Commissioners administration of voter registration and implementation of the Federal "fail-safe" voting procedures has been affirmed by the US Third Circuit Court of Appeals in February 2001 in Welker v. Clarke.

In 1997, Philadelphia implemented an Imaging System which enabled production of Pollbooks listing eligible voter records and digitized signatures for use at the polls. This eliminated the old, heavy metal binders holding each voters original paper record allowing they remain secure at our central office and substantially eased the work of our pollworkers. In May 2002, the Commission replaced its old mechanical lever voting machines with a proven electronic voting system and conducted an extensive education program on the new machines for Ward Leaders, Committeepersons, Poll Officials and voters throughout the City. It has substantially decreased the reporting time of results and saved tens of thousands of dollars while eliminating errors in reading, manually writing and tabulating vote totals from the old lever machines.

In 2003, well before the effective date for implementing the Provisional Voting requirements of the Help America Vote Act, the City Commissioners procured a central count, optical scan voting system for use in designing, printing, scanning, and counting paper Absentee, Alternative and Provisional Ballots. This ensures that problems highlighted in Florida 2000 in detecting and resolving voter intent issues on manual or opt/scan paper ballots are resolved in accordance with "What Constitutes A Vote Standards", issued by the Commonwealth, at a public hearing, so that each and every vote can be properly counted, recorded and reported.

In 2004, the Commission successfully implemented the voter ID and provisional voting requirements of the Help America Vote Act. Prior to the Nov. 2004 Election, the Commission conducted the most extensive voter education program in the Commonwealth.

During Philadelphia's most active and volatile election in more than 20 years, the Commission personnel processed more than 250,000 registration applications, provided access for review of approximately 80,000 voters records and efficiently assisted Commonwealth Court in Hearings on the Nader petition challenge, prepared more than 3,430 machines, processed absentees, conducted a relatively problem free election in which more than 672,000 Philadelphians voted; and processed more than 12,000 voted Provisional Ballots.

In May 2005, the Commission obtained approval for approximately $20 million in Federal Help America Vote funds, the bulk of which must be used to reimburse the City for replacing its lever machines and to upgrade its electronic machines for compliance with accessibility standards.
Prior to January 1, 2006, the City Commissioners will upgrade its electronic voting system and voting machines to provide the accessibility for visually impaired voters to independently cast their ballot.

Mr. DeFelice also writes, "It's nearly impossible to find a polling place that meets even early 20th century standards, such as running water, handicap accessibility and the right not to vote in bars and Democratic headquarters."

He should realize Philadelphia is an older, major urban city and obtaining fully accessible facilities, with designated parking for the disabled, within, or adjacent to every election district is almost impossible. The City has 316 fully accessible polls and another 675 where the building is accessible. The City has identified another 175 where portable ramps may provide accessibility. We are researching properties in the remaining 500 voting Divisions, and adjacent Divisions to locate additional accessible locations.

Complaints about Philadelphia polling places from some in Pennsylvania are often distorted and selective in nature. On May 16, 2005, the day before the May Primary, Republican State Committee (PAGOP) issued a Press Release on Philadelphia polling places also included the following: "Perhaps most astonishingly, residents of the 18th Division of the Twenty-Ninth Ward will be voting in a Vacant Funeral Home. It has long been rumored that the dead vote in Philadelphia, but this is apparently the first time they've ever been given their own polling place"

Although it wasn't included in Mr. DeFelice's letter, he is a Republican Committeeperson in the 64th Ward, 11th Division. The registrants in this Division vote in a "working" Funeral Parlor - Fluehr's, at 3301 Cottman Ave. It puzzles me how PAGOP could be so concerned about using a vacant Funeral Home in the 29th Ward, yet totally fail to mention the use of an "active" Funeral Home in the 64th Ward.

The PAGOP and Mr. DeFelice's letter also complain of a polling place in a Senator's Office. Three weeks before the Nov 2004 Election, PAGOP had local candidates file a late request to move that polling place to a public school located more than four voting Divisions away.
The new accessible John Perzel Community Center is being constructed behind the inaccessible Mayfair School which currently serves as the polling place for four Divisions of the 55th Ward and one Division of the 64th Ward.

Unfortunately, if we apply the same logic and argument from PAGOP and Mr. DeFelice against the use of one Sen. Fumo's accessible office then it would appear PAGOP and Mr. DeFelice would also urge us not to use this new facility for the five Divisions as it too would have the name of a current elected official (and possible future candidate) permanently installed over the door.

The same PAGOP Press Release goes on "Pennsylvania law states that voting cannot take place in a location used for the sale or serving of alcohol" and, like Mr. DeFelice, condemns the use of a few bars in Philadelphia. Yet the Release fails to condemn polling places in Pennsylvania's other 66 Counties that are located in VFW's or other establishments that have a license for "the sale or serving of alcohol." Like Philadelphia, these locations are more than likely used as a last resort to provide voters a convenient polling place within, or adjacent to their voting district.
Philadelphians are well aware that parking can be difficult and many do not drive. A large percentage of Philadelphians walk to their polling place. It is vital that voting districts be properly sized and that polling places be located within the Division, and no further than the adjacent Division, to avoid barriers to voting such as long lines, and long walking distances. The Commission will continue its efforts to locate accessible buildings within each Division and will select locations after consideration of all factors for the convenience of all electors, including seniors and disabled voters.

In his letter Mr. DeFelice also writes, "It is nearly impossible to receive all the poll watchers certificates for which you applied." He was issued a Republican certificate for candidate Hillel Levinson for the May 17, 2005 Primary Election. This certificate was available for pickup on April 28, 2005, 18 days before the election. A review of the Watcher Request Form submitted for the 64th Ward watchers, including Mr. DeFelice's, clearly has numerous errors or entries contrary to the limitation imposed by law.

The form submitted for the 64th Ward included the following number of individuals in the following Divisions: four in the 2nd Div., six in the 4th Div., three in the 3rd Div., five in the 10th Div, four in the 11th Div, five in the 12th Div, three in the 13th Div, three in the 15th Div, four in the 17th Div, six in the 18th Div, and one individual in the 64th Ward, 19th Division which does not even exist.

Since State Law limits Watchers to two per candidate per Division, Commission personnel could have simply rejected the requests over the limit. However, the extra individuals in each Division were issued Certificates under the names of other cross-filed judicial candidates. Forms completed properly in accordance with the limits imposed by State Law, increase efficiency in processing and eliminate confusion and false perceptions.

If Mr. DeFelice is referring to the 2003 General Election when campaign operatives, notably the Katz campaign, requested hundreds of certificates the day before Election Day, then he should be aware that it is necessary for our personnel to leave the office by 8 or 9 p.m. so they can return before 6 a.m. the next morning, Election Day. These same late submissions from numerous campaigns and operatives occurred again during the 2004 November Election.
Mr. DeFelice also suggests a temporary shutdown of the Commissioner’s office to load all pertinent data onto a database. First, the workload does not permit temporarily shutting down the office. Additionally, it would be foolhardy and a total waste of city taxpayer funds for the Commission to implement any new database.

Prior to January 1, 2006, the Commission will be converting its data and daily operations to the Help America Vote Act mandated and funded Statewide Uniform Registry of Electors. Unfortunately in 2002 the Ridge/Schweiker Administration, selected a system that was expensive, inferior and non-compliant with Federal and State Voter Registration and Election law when it was placed in operation. The law requiring the system exempted the procurement from the normal procurement and regulatory processes. It has taken more than three years to revise and upgrade the system. As recently as March 2005, the SURE system could not even meet the contractual requirement of a three second response time for a single query.

Finally, Mr. DeFelice writes, "Now is the time to establish a computer program that will expedite the processing of watcher certificates, while at the same time turning a blind eye to partisan politics." He should be aware that this expensive and inferior Statewide SURE system lacks many modules, applications, and reports needed in administering elections and it does not include a computer module for processing and maintaining data for printing Watchers Certificates.

The City Commissioners and their personnel will continue their efforts at improving the electoral process in Philadelphia and we thank all Ward Leaders, Committeepersons, and Polling Place Officials for their assistance in implementing these improvements.

What Exactly is Handicap Accessible?

2005-08-18T08:12:00.000-04:00

According to the City, a polling place that is not handicap accessible is allowable because there are alternative means to which one cast a ballot such as the absentee ballot. Nevertheless, disabled people are still being discriminated against because they have only one option in how they may cast a ballot. They are being stigmatized and not able to participate in the ppolitical process the same way all of the neighbors can. However, they still have an option available to them.
What about disabled people that are interested in being pollwatchers or running for judge of elections. They are denied the ability to this if their polling place is not accessible. One may run for Judge of Elections and win but not be able to serve if they can not get into the polling place. This saddens me. All citizens should not be denied the basic tenets on which our country was founded. We need to change the polling places in this City so that all are fully, handicap accessible and those wishing to make a contribution to society not be denied because they are in a wheelchair or have other disabilities.

Another Example of Election Frau (Atleast Something is being done about this)

2005-08-17T08:26:00.000-04:00

Hearing on City Councilelection-fraud case set

Reprinted Courtesy of the Northeast Times

Three local political officials will face a preliminary hearing on Friday morning on charges of election fraud.
Those facing charges are Mike Stack Jr., Democratic leader of the 58th Ward, and two of his committee people, Arline Petroff and Jim McGinley.
The hearing will take place at City Hall and will be presided over by Senior Common Pleas Court Judge R. Barry McAndrews, of Bucks County.
Pennsylvania Deputy Attorney General Patrick Blessington will prosecute the case.
The trial stems from the 2003 race in the 10th Councilmanic District. The Democratic candidate, John Farley, was disqualified from running for lacking the necessary signatures to win a spot on the ballot.
Authorities believe that Stack, Petroff and McGinley forged many of the signatures without Farley’s knowledge.
A state grand jury indicted the trio in February 2004. They are charged with forgery, perjury and other counts.
The state attorney general’s office requested an outside judge because Stack’s wife Felice is a Municipal Court judge and because most judges get elected with the help of Democratic ward leaders like Stack.
The ward leader is also the father of state Sen. Mike Stack

Dixon Speaks out in regard to Stack's Billboard

2005-08-17T08:25:00.000-04:00

He’s ashamed ofthe senator’s billboard

reprinted courtesy of the Northeast Times

As most of us are unfortunately aware, Ashley Burg, a troubled teen originally from the Fishtown section of Philadelphia, died July 31 of an apparent drug overdose. Her partially clothed corpse was found Aug. 1 on Red Lion Road in Crestmont Farms.
Per the Philadelphia Daily News article entitled Tattle Tales dirty little secret (dated Aug. 11), Ashley was last seen alive in Montgomery County on July 31 being dispatched to a home in the suburban county as a result of her involvement in a sex-for-hire operation.It is the police department’s belief that an informal sex setup has been operating from Tattle Tales South, a topless bar in Port Richmond. According to a probable-cause affidavit, David Downey, the owner of the aforementioned Montgomery County home, contacted a Tattle Tales dancer called Kim for an escort on July 30. Early on July 31, Kim and her boyfriend dropped Burg off at Mr. Downey’s home.
The case is still under investigation with an outcome pending.
The above is just another example of the litany of sad and troubling events that surface far too often in our great city. What is also troubling is the fact that state Sen. Mike Stack had an enormous campaign banner hanging from the east side of the Tattle Tales South building during his 2004 re-election campaign. Said advertisement, which promoted his "commitment" to our neighborhoods, remained posted through this spring.
When first seeing the subject banner, I could not comprehend how a public servant who was "for the neighborhoods" could promote such an ideology from the side of a topless gentlemen’s club? Now, with the news of Burg’s death, I am all the more disheartened and ashamed.
Ed DixonTorresdale resident and member of Neighborhood Civic PAC
Note: The Neighborhood Civic PAC is a medium for like-minded Philadelphia residents to carry out public service initiatives. For more information, call 215-292-3926 or e-mail neighborhoodcivicpac@yahoo.com

Voting for a Better City (From the Philadelphia Daily News)

2005-08-17T08:10:00.000-04:00

Reprinted Courtesy of Philly.com

Letters VOTING FOR A BETTER CITY
WITH THE 2005 municipal races right around the corner and very important elections coming up in 2006, it is time to make a clean sweep through the offices of City Hall and the cubicles at Delaware and Spring Garden. It is here that all the corruption and mismanagement begins.
Elections in this city are very old-fashioned. It is nearly impossible to receive all the poll watchers certificates for which you applied. It's nearly impossible to find a polling place that meets even early 20th century standards, such as running water, handicap accessibility and the right not to vote in bars and Democratic headquarters. It is nearly impossible get accurate, up-to-date data from the City Commissioners office.
Now is the time to make a concerted bi-/tri-partisan effort to search and identify sufficient polling places within an election division and if none is available, to look beyond that division so that citizens can cast their ballots in clean, voter friendly environments. Now is the time to establish a computer program that will expedite the processing of watcher certificates, while at the same time turning a blind eye to partisan politics. Now is the time to temporarily shut down the City Commissioners office, so that they can take the time to load all pertinent information onto a computer database so that regular people can have the kind of access to public records that now only the politicians and their friends enjoy.
We are calling on all city commissioners to reform their offices for the betterment of the populace. We are calling on the Committee of Seventy to begin this new era by breathing fresh air into this stale political environment. We are calling on the leaders of both parties to reach out to their members to make them aware that their priorities are aligned with the nation, as a whole, to incorporate the Help America Vote Act into mainstream election referendums. It is time for Philadelphia to leave the past behind and chart a new path to future.
Joseph J. DeFelice, Esq.
Mayfair

John Street's Statement on Today's Indictments

2005-08-09T17:29:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of PoliticsPA.com

Statement of Mayor John F. StreetConcerning Today's Indictments"The indictments announced today by United States Attorney Patrick L. Meehan of former Streets Commissioner William Johnson and several others resulted from the initial work of City Inspector General William Gill. I am proud that an honest and vigilant city official, who suspected wrongdoing, alerted the Inspector General, who determined that federal funds were involved and referred the matter to federal authorities.
Although I am disappointed by the unfortunate circumstances surrounding those indictments, I am confident that our system of monitoring the integrity and accountability of city employees work. We continue to have a policy of zero tolerance for corruption of any kind or size. The public has a right to expect honesty and integrity from all city employees, in every instance."

Please post any comments you may have on this matter.

More Corruption...More Indictments

2005-08-09T07:59:00.000-04:00

Today more of Philadelphia's public officials were indicted on charges of theft and conspirarcy to defraud the government.
"A federal grand jury has indicted former Philadelphia Streets Department Commissioner William M. Johnson and two other individuals on charges of stealing from the Keep Philadelphia Beautiful program and conspiracy to defraud the government. (reprinted courtesy of philly.com)"
There is that word again, FRAUD. These people were trusted with the People's money and they accused of stealing that money and that trust. This is the governement of the People, by the People and for the People. Fraud keeps abounding. We need to clean this up.

State Rep. Dennis (Denny) O'Brien does for Neighborhood Sports Teams with the 2nd Annual Northeast Philly 5 Mile Run.

2005-08-08T08:10:00.000-04:00

State Rep. Dennis O'Brien will sponsor the Second Annual Northeast Philadelphia 5 mile run. This run is slated for Sunday, October 16, 2005 at the Northeast Philly International Airport. registration will begin at 7am with the race set for 9 am. For more information about this event Contact O'Brien's District Office at 215-632-5150 and ask for Carol.
The event is the same as last year with one difference. The race will be held at the Airport aas will registration rather than RAMP playground do to scehduling conflict. The race benefits local youth organization. To see the story about last years race click the following
http://www.northeasttimes.com/2004/1007/race.html

Spindecision 2005

2005-08-08T07:59:00.000-04:00

With respect to an article published in the Pittsburgh Tribune http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/opinion/columnists/vassilaros/s_360812.html and brough to our attention by PoliticsPhilly.com http://www.politicsphilly.com/node/237
Many seem to be more interested in the Spin than the actual story of voter fraud in Philadelphia, from Will Bunch, to Dimitri Vassilaros, to countless bloggers and meetup groups. The group acvr includes many Republicans but also contains some Democrats. Maybe they are not nonpartisan, but they sure are bipartisan. While some facts a slanted along partisan lines, some cannot be disputed. According to the report and common knowledge, there were fraudulent registrations in Philly, the Polling Places are a poor excuse for Democracy, and the voter rolls were not adequately purged. Nevertheless, what wasnt mentioned in the article and should have been was how even more fraud would have been reported had pollwatchers received their watchers certificates to grant them access to the polling places. Bob Lee recently issued a retort to the report in the comments section of a blog, guess he didnt want to go on air or in print media with this so to give it more coverage. He stated many things in his retort, http://blogs.philly.com/blinq/2005/08/election_cheese.html#more
but he conveniently left out the lack of watcher certificates received by these Republican operatives. Had each person legally received their certificate, more concrete evidence of fraud would have been reported. However it wasnt. Check the facts! Forget the group that issued the report, stop making execuses for fraudulent government, clean up elections in this City.

Joan Krajewski's CLIP does for the Neighborhood

2005-08-08T07:22:00.000-04:00

City Councilperson Joan Krajewski has long been an advocate for cleaning up qualiity of life issues affecting Mayfair and other areas in the 6th Councilmanic District. Nevertheless, no where was this more inyour face than when she created C.L.I.P. - the Coummunity Life Improvement Program to ensure that the neighborhood remains safe and clean. If you have a neighbor who you are at your wits end with, ie doesnt clean up dog dirt, doesn't take out the trash, doesnt cut their lawn, be sure and call clip who will come out to that persons home and remedy the problem most urgently. CLIP, coupled with the cleansweep initiative between John Perzel, Joan Krajewski and the Mayfair CDC, has helped revitalize Frankford Ave and continues to make Mayfair a Great Place to Live and Work. For more informationon CLIP, click here http://www.mayfaircdc.org/clip.html

Clarification

2005-08-05T07:57:00.000-04:00

With respect to Chris' comment in the below column, I feel I should clarify myself. I may have fell victim to the "dont believe everything you read syndrome". Yesterday I claimed that Philly for Change and the Neighborhood Networks were one in the same, Chris assured me that they were not. However, when reading yesterday's Public record, I came across this article
http://phillyrecord.com/2005/0804/Pols%20On%20the%20street.html
Some text follows:
"Officially titled "Philly for Change", the group hosted a gathering at the Yards Brewery to get its members to meet with Democratic Candidates for Congress: Lois Murphy, Lois Herr, and Paul Scoles.
The group, also operating under a communications network as "Neighborhood Networks" has affiliated itself with Democracy for America and considers itself to be a volunteer based political organization."

I would like to clarify, I will not issue a retraction until I receive a more definitive answer. But atleast I have clarified my statement.
Cheers

John Perzel and the Mayfair CDC do for the Neighborhood

2005-08-04T20:03:00.000-04:00

The Mayfair Community Development Corporation ("MCDC") is pleased to present the John M. Perzel Community Center in the Mayfair section of lower Northeast Philadelphia.
The parcel is approximately .624 acres situated 73.75 feet along St. Vincent Street and extending 378.5 feet toward Princeton Avenue. The new address assigned to the Community Center is 2990 St.Vincent Street. Access to the site will be provided by new curb cuts along St. Vincent Street.
Specifically, the proposed development parcel will replace 4 outdoor basketball courts and will sit between recreation department baseball fields and the Mayfair Elementary School surface parking lot.
The land where the John M. Perzel Community Center will be built, this image was taken September 2004, just prior to ground-breaking on the project. The Mayfair Community Development Corp will construct a 23,785 square foot (355 ft. long x 67 ft. wide) one-story building consisting of the following:
2 full court basketball gyms
1 multi-purpose community room
1 computer lab
1 kitchen and related office space
All of the above-referenced uses serve well-established recreational and cultural needs of local Mayfair area residents.
Estimated construction costs for this new facility are $2.75 million.
Ground Breaking: October 13, 2004Construction Commencement: December, 2004Grand Opening: November 2005
(Pictured below is the future John M. Perzel Community Center)

To View the Construction Cam click the following link:
http://media1.pahousegop.com/perzel_webcam

Does "Philly for Change" support fraud?

2005-08-04T08:16:00.000-04:00

How about the neighborhood Networks. Then there is the Philadelphia Young Democrats...

All of these groups have responded negatively to the idea that there is fraud in this city. They want change they say, but only when it agrees with them. I guess they like voting in abandoned buildings. I guess the like people getting attacked at the polls.

Philly for Change and the Neighborhood Networks (whichare one in the same) call themselves progressives; however, when a National Voting Rights group comes out and bashes the City for allowing fraud to go on, they dismiss it as partisan. These are the same people that ran back and hid behind the Democrat label when the bug was found in City Hall. These so called progressives don't want progress. Progress is hard to attain, they want safety. They want to buck the trend only when they think it is a safe move. They set up this shadow group so that they could support progressive candidates and progressives ideologies, which is ironic because you don't get much more progressive than election reform. They'll say we want it everywhere, not just Philly. Well go do it somewhere elese, expand your group. I would like to see you push this election reform because if you fail here, your group will fold even before they are any kind of factor in this City.

Also, the Philly Young dems are lead by a group of Young progressive liberals that moved into Center City, however they must not practice what they preach. When the idea of reform was posted on their meetup group, the post was removed. When it was posted again, it was removed again. That explains it, the Philadelphia Young Democrats are "For Fraud."
VIVA LA FRAUD - http://youngdems.meetup.com/5/ -

Find your State Officials

2005-08-04T07:52:00.000-04:00

This will help you find your State Representative, State Senator and Governor.

Find Phila. Officials

2005-08-04T07:51:00.000-04:00

This will lead you to find your Philadelphia elected officials as well as State Senator and Congressperson.

Find Your polling place

2005-08-04T07:48:00.000-04:00

Please visit this to find your polling place.

Kenney Does for the Neighborhood by Securing Grant Funds for Rockledge Park

2005-08-04T06:37:00.000-04:00

Kenney Secures Grant Funds for Rockledge ParkWednesday July 27, 2005
Rep. George Kenney (R-Philadelphia/Montgomery) announced that he has secured grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for renovations now underway at Rockledge Park.
"I am happy that I was able to assist Rockledge Borough in obtaining funds for the renovations to Rockledge Park," Kenney said. "This grant money will help the borough to provide greater recreational opportunities for residents of all ages."
The grant funding, which totals $30,000, was awarded to Rockledge Borough through the DCNR Community Conservation Partnerships Program and is administered by the department’s Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
The program provides financial and technical assistance to local governments, river and trail organizations, land trusts and other nonprofits for the planning, acquisition and development of park, recreation, conservation and greenway projects. Funding sources include the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental Stewardship Act Fund and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund.

Let's put the partisan politics aside and enact some change.

2005-08-03T07:56:00.000-04:00

what i don't understand is the blogging community backlash against the partisanism of this group (ACVR) when the real anger should be spewed at this City that allows this type of stuff to go on. Alot of people out here are deaniacs always talking about change, ie neighborhood networks, phillyforchange, democracy for america; but when the Right proposes such things they fall back in line. These are the same people that are always calling for change. lets put the partisan bs aside and look at the facts. This city is antiquated with the way that it runs elections, let unite both sides and "change" this. You call yourselves progressives, lets make some progress.

Philadelphia Identified As No. 1 Election Fraud 'Hot Spot' In America, Says American Center for Voting Rights Legislative Fund

2005-08-03T05:02:00.000-04:00

We've been saying this all along!!!!!!!

WASHINGTON, Aug. 2 /U.S. Newswire/ -- In a report released today, the American Center for Voting Rights Legislative Fund ("ACVR Legislative Fund") identifies Philadelphia as the number one election fraud "hot spot" in America. The report, "Vote Fraud, Intimidation & Suppression In The 2004 Presidential Election," is the most comprehensive and authoritative review of the facts surrounding allegations of vote fraud, intimidation and suppression made during the 2004 presidential election. The report lists the top five election fraud "hot spots" in the country based on its findings and the cities' documented history of fraud and intimidation. ACVR Legislative Fund calls for immediate attention to these areas.
"Election after election, political parties, election officials and the news media act surprised when fraud, intimidation and suppression activities occur. Now everyone is on notice that there's a problem in Philadelphia and those who don't participate in a solution will be held accountable," said Brian Lunde, ACVR Legislative Fund board member.
ACVR Legislative Fund will work with national and state political parties, state legislators and local officials to create a process that supports local election officials in each of these "hot spot" cities and ensures that any effort to continue the historic pattern of fraud and intimidation in the 2006 election is exposed and stopped. Other "hot spots" identified in the report were Milwaukee, Seattle, St. Louis/East St. Louis and Cleveland.
Summary Of Philadelphia Findings:
-- Republican volunteers violently intimidated by union members, who assaulted the volunteers' vehicle and chased them in traffic.
-- At least 15 new registrants found to be deceased.
-- Many addresses listed for new registrants were in fact vacant lots and boarded-up buildings.
-- Polling places located in local bars, unsafe abandoned buildings, district office of Democrat state Sen. Vincent Fumo and private home decorated with Kerry sign in window.
-- 43 polling locations inaccessible to the handicapped and 17 in businesses or homes where voters could be intimidated.
-- ACT and MoveOn illegally distributed and collected absentee ballots from prison inmates in at least one Philadelphia prison, according to news reports.
-- City voter rolls nearly matched census estimates of the voting-age population.
-- ACORN reportedly put inaccurate information on voter registration forms.
Violence against GOP volunteers in Philadelphia addressed on page 29; City vote fraud/election irregularities section begins on page 62.
ACVR Legislative Fund sent a letter to national political party chairmen Howard Dean and Ken Mehlman today calling on them to identify issues of concern in Philadelphia and other "hot spot" cities by October 1, 2005. ACVR Legislative Fund also called on the national political parties to adopt a zero- tolerance policy against vote fraud and intimidation that commits them to pursuing and fully prosecuting individuals and allied organizations who commit vote fraud or who seek to deter anyone eligible from participating in the election through fraud or intimidation.
"No amount of legislative reform can effectively deter those who commit acts of fraud and intimidation if there is no punishment for the crime and these acts continue to be tolerated," said Mark F. "Thor" Hearne, ACVR Legislative Fund Counsel. "We must put a stop to vote fraud, intimidation and suppression in Philadelphia for people to regain confidence in our electoral process."
The report finds that thousands of Americans were disenfranchised by illegal votes cast and a coordinated effort by members of certain "nonpartisan" organizations to rig the election system through voter registration fraud in more than a dozen states. The report further finds that while Democrats routinely accuse Republicans of voter intimidation and suppression, neither party has a clean record on the issue. The report finds that paid Democrat operatives were far more involved in voter intimidation and suppression activities than were their Republican counterparts during the 2004 presidential election.
The report makes eight key recommendations that, if implemented, will secure the American election system so that all voters will have the ability to participate free of harassment and no legitimate voter will be disenfranchised by an illegal vote.
ACVR Legislative Fund was founded on the belief that public confidence in our electoral system is the cornerstone of our democracy. The organization was established primarily to further the common good and general welfare of citizens of the United States of America by educating the public about vote fraud, intimidation and discrimination which impacts the constitutional right of all citizens to participate in the electoral process. ACVR Legislative Fund is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that neither supports nor endorses any political party or candidate.
Please visit http://releases.usnewswire.com/redir.asp?ReleaseID=51235&Link=http://www.ac4vr.com to view the report in its entirety.

Phillly Fraud by the numbers (a logical look at Philadelphia)

2005-08-02T18:51:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Politicsphilly.com to bringing light to this fact. We need to reform the way elections are done in this city.

Phillly Fraud by the numbers (a logical look at Philadelphia)Myself November 3, 2004 2banana
Posted on 11/03/2004 7:03:35 AM PST by 2banana
Pennsylvania Vote:
From CNN: (http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2004/pages/results/states/PA/P/00/index.html)
STATUS CANDIDATE VOTE % EV
Kerry 2,868,674 51% 21
Bush (Incumbent) 2,746,856 49% 0
Badnarik 20,902 0% 0
Peroutka 6,426 0% 0
Cobb 6,192 0% 0
Bush lost Pennsylvania by 121,818 votes
------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Vote:
From CNN (http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2004/pages/results/states/PA/P/00/county.002.html#42101):
Kerry 517,054 80% 97% of precincts reporting
Bush (Incumbent) 124,710 20%
Badnarik 860 0%
Cobb 464 0%
Peroutka 375 0%
Total Philly votes cast: 643,463
So Kerry got 4.14 votes for every 1 Bush vote in Philly (an absolutely astounding number - even heavily democratic Broward Country, Fl only went for Kerry 2:1 and heavily democratic Cook County, IL went for Kerry 2.5:1)
------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Voting Population:
From the US Census Bureau: (http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/42/42101.html): Philadelphia County Pennsylvania
Population, 2003 estimate 1,479,339
Population, percent change, April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2003 -2.5%
Population, 2000 1,517,550
Population, percent change, 1990 to 2000 -4.3%
Persons under 5 years old, percent, 2000 6.5%
Persons under 18 years old, percent, 2000 25.3%
Persons 65 years old and over, percent, 2000 14.1%
Female persons, percent, 2000 53.5%
Total age eligible aged persons in Philly : Overall Philly population (1,479,339) - those under 18 (25.3% of 1,479,339) = 1,105,066*
Does not exclude those not eligible to vote by other factors (immigrants, felons, etc.)
------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Registered Voters:
Total number of people registered to vote in Philly (http://www.seventy.org/stats/regstats.html) 2001 - 1,011,149
Total number of people registered to vote in Philly (http://www.pennlive.com/politics/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/109698120624990.xml) 2004 - 1,035,395
Total number of people registered to vote in Philly (http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/103-10042004-376969.html) 2004 - 1,035,395
------------------------------------------
Some conclusions:
1. Even as Philadelphia looses population, the number of registered voters continues to increase
2. Nearly every person of voting age is registered to vote (as compared to a national average of 50% by the Census Bureau http://www.census.gov/prod/2002pubs/p20-542.pdf)
3 The total lopsidedness of the vote is an astounding number to believe
4. Either Philadelphia has the most engaged and civic population in the WORLD, or there is massive fraud.
5. The amount of fraud easily exceeds the margin of loss of President Bush. If Bush had won Pennsylvania, it would have been a landslide (no Ohio hand wringing).

VISIONS OF TAMMANY HALL, NOT INDEPENDENCE HALL (WHY PHILADELPHIA IS NUMBER ONE IN VOTER FRAUD)

2005-08-02T17:35:00.000-04:00

This is what we have been saying all along. The reason we are number 1 in voter fraud is because of the archaic way our elections are run.Visions of Tammany Hall, not Independence Hall!

THIS WAS PICKED UP BY POLITICSPHILLY.COM

Rush & Philadelphia Voter Fraud - We're #1?

Tim Saler sent me word that Rush Limbaugh was reading from a report on-air today that cited Philadelphia as the #1 city - in voter fraud.
I'm at a loss for details on this so if anyone with more information would be kind enough to comment or drop me an email at tulin@politicsphilly.com, it would be most appreciated.
I have no idea of the truth behind this, so I am - as I'm sure many of you are, anxious for answers.