Why Can't (or Won't) American Car Makers Do This?

According to PennFuture, Toyota has announced the introduction of 10 additional gasoline-electric hybrid car models by early next decade. One of the models will be a hybrid pickup truck. The world's second-leading automaker is also aiming to sell at least one million hybrids a year worldwide, and to have hybrids account for 25 percent of Toyota's annual U.S. sales.

Rankings, Shmankings

A new study, "Grading Places: What Do the Business Climate Rankings Really Tell Us?" indicates that many of those ranking studies can be biased and misleading. The study identifies examples of shoddy work, such as identification of Las Vegas as having the best airport infrastructure in the country, while New York City is ranked 40th. However, Las Vegas has only one large commercial airport and New York has three. What should we conclude here in Philadelphia? If our City comes out being ranked well in a survey, believe it. If Philadelphia is poorly ranked, the survey is dubious and should be ignored (see story).

Thanks to T. Madres, Board Chair of Young Involved Philadelphia for this tidbit.

Philadelphia County: We're #23!!

According to a recent report by the Census Bureau, Philadelphia County - coterminous with the City of Philadelphia - is the 23rd best paying county (out of 3,141), in terms of payroll per employee (see story).

Councilman Mariano: Don’t Read this, It’ll Bum You Out

Philadelphia politicians under federal scrutiny are not alone; the Feds are taking a hard look at public officials in places like Atlanta, San Diego, and Chicago. The Justice Department's Public Integrity Section - which prosecutes political corruption cases - reports 43 convictions or guilty pleas at mid-year, compared with 51 for all of 2004 and 48 in 2003

According to research by The Dallas Morning News, the Public Integrity Section has a proven record of effectiveness. Between 1984 and 2003, they achieved convictions for 20,393 of the 23,320 people they indicted. That’s an 87% conviction rate. Success is predicated on the propensity of federal prosecutors to indict only when the evidence is strong and its probative value provides a high likelihood of conviction (see story).

Indy Racing in Philadelphia?

Paul Newman (the salad dressing guy and actor) and representatives from “Champ Car World Series” are scheduled to meet with senior City officials this afternoon to discuss holding an Indianapolis Speedway-style race on Philadelphia streets. Champ Car draws international media coverage and an average of 150,000 fans per event and could generate $25 million to $50 million in revenue, including 10,000 room nights at local hotels (see story). Watching a bunch of cars rip around Philadelphia streets; can’t we already do that during rush hour? But seriously, if it’s good for the Philadelphia economy, America’s Hometown is for it (and would probably go down to watch it).

GoodWorks-PAC.org

GoodWorks-PAC.org, a Federal political action committee based in Philadelphia, has endorsed the campaign of New York City Council candidate Gur Tsabar as a model for all Democratic campaigns. GoodWorks-PAC.org recruits and assists Democratic candidates who use public service in their campaigns. These campaigns highlight Democratic values, earn positive media, and strengthen the Democratic Party’s ability to turn out voters.

Ritz-Carlton Hotel to get a 44-Story Neighbor

The “Residences at the Ritz-Carlton” will be a $250 million, 44-story condominium project on the former Meridian Plaza office building site at 15th and Market Streets in Center City. Shovels will hit the ground this Fall and project completion is scheduled for the Spring of 2008 (see story).

Philadelphia Housing Market Not Risky?

A list of the 13 riskiest housing markets and Philadelphia is not on it...

Greenhouse Gas Reductions and Economic Vitality

According to PennFuture, new data from Portland (OR) indicates that it is possible for a City to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions without a negative impact on the economy. Portland has reduced its emissions below 1990 levels, the standard for the Kyoto accord.

To view the City's progress report on global warming, visit this site.

FDIC report says Philadelphia is one of 55 housing 'boom' markets

A new report by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation says Philadelphia is considered one of 55 "boom" housing markets (see story). "Increased population, improved job growth, limited housing supply and innovative mortgage products have contributed to strong housing trends," says the report.

Temple University: The Owl that Could

Temple University produces a bit more than $1 of every $100 generated in the five Pennsylvania counties in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Statistical Area, according to a recent report (see story). The University annually generates $2.7 billion and creates 17,818 full- and part-time jobs in the five-county region. The economic activity produced by Temple results from the direct and indirect effects of its spending on operations and construction, plus the direct and indirect effects of spending by Temple employees, students and visitors.

Sports Complex Skyway?

Mark Allen Hughes has an interesting idea: build an elevated walkway to connect the subway station and indoor/outdoor stadia at the sports complex, as well as whatever parking or retail/office complex that gets built on the former Vet site (see op ed). The walkway would enable pedestrians to avoid the parking lots, making it more convenient (and safer) for motorists and mass transit riders. Mr. Hughes suggests that the project would be a strong candidate for federal transportation funding for cutting congestion. Says Mark Allen, ”We missed a chance to build downtown sports venues. We should at least make it as easy as possible to get from downtown to those venues. Done right, that might even make for the best solution after all.”

The Next Police Commissioner Ascends?

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia's police commissioner is about to appoint Captain Richard Ross - commander of the department's Homicide Unit and a bright, energetic, innovative police officer - to a new departmental position as deputy commissioner in charge of gun violence.

Philadelphia Utility Work: Better Coordination

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, a new, coordinated system for mitigating disruption and congestion caused by utility work on Philadelphia streets has been established. Eighteen utility and telecommunications companies, City departments/agencies, SEPTA and other stakeholders will meet monthly to resolve conflicts and coordinate work. The working group and related agreement also gives effect to an ordinance enacted last Spring requiring companies to reimburse the City for damage caused by street digging.

City Year Positions

City Year still has full-time AmeriCorps positions available. If you know someone between the ages of 17-24 who can spend 10 months making a difference, then please have him/her attend a City Year information session. Information sessions are held at the City Year office at 6 pm every Wednesday, 2nd floor of the Red Cross Building at 23rd and Chestnut. Additionally, anyone can visit their website for more information or call (267) 386-7013.

Friedman, Out!

I'm taking a break from blogging and all other serious activity; heading up to the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania. See you all when I get back. Take care!

Suburban Boomers Become Center City Roomers

According to a recent study by Commerce Bancorp, the Center City baby boomer influx could continue for decades and is an important component of Philadelphia’s economic growth and prosperity. Economist Joel Naroff - writing in the bank’s “Spring Economic Outlook” newsletter – said, “Now that the boomers are nearing their retirement years, they are reconsidering their locational choices. Without children, they are starting to rid themselves of their huge suburban homes to live where the amenities match their new lifestyles. Center City Philadelphia has become one major winner in the housing lottery, setting off a major boom in the construction of apartments, condos and co-ops. This demographic and locational shift could last for decades and is likely to help reverse the decline in the city [emphasis added]. When the city expands, it adds to growth throughout the region, so the future for the region looks even brighter.”

Center City Hotels Did Well in May

According to Smith Travel Research, Center City hotels had an occupancy rate of 78.3% in May, up 5.7% from May 2004. Revenue per available room (“RevPAR”) was at $97.79 in Center City for May.

Blue Future PAC

According to their website, the mission of Blue Future PAC "is to provide financial and other support to the campaigns of new Democratic candidates for state and local political offices in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, Pennsylvania. Blue Future PAC seeks to support candidates who demonstrate the capacity for state-wide office." This group is seeking to replicate - to some extent - the locally focused, grass-roots electoral successes that the Republicans have produced over the past two decades. The idea is to get fresh, progressive Democrats elected to local offices in more Republican-friendly areas by giving them the organizing and fiscal tools they need to succeed.

Schuylkill River Skatepark: Coming Along

Plans for the Schuylkill River Skatepark - the place where exiles from Love Park are supposed to flock to - have been unveiled; while approval by the Fairmount Park Commission is still required, there’s an expectation that shovels will be in the ground by next Spring. A nonprofit called Franklin's Paine seeks to raise the $5 million needed for construction from the skateboard industry's equipment manufacturers, clothing makers and retail outfits, as well as from Philadelphia corporate interests (see story).

Philadelphia Law Firms: Nationally Competitive

Eight of Philadelphia's largest law firms made it onto a list of the nation's top 100 firms (see story). American Lawyer Magazine said it was one of the best showings by Philadelphia firms in two decades. Three of them, Pepper Hamilton, Cozen O'Connor and Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, were not on the list in 2003. Others that made the list were Morgan, Lewis & Bockius; Dechert; Duane Morris; Blank Rome L.L.P; and Drinker Biddle & Reath. Thriving law firms bring significant economic benefits to the City and region, in the way of tax revenue and employee and firm spending in the local economy.

RecycleBank to Make Live 8 Environmentally Friendly

From the good friends of America's Hometown at RecycleBank:

June 30, 2005 – (Philadelphia) - RecycleBank announced today that it has been named the Official Recycling Provider for Philadelphia’s Live 8 Concert on July 2, 2005. RecycleBank will provide large, clearly marked recycling containers for an expected one million concertgoers, as well as arrange for collection and disposal of recyclable materials.

“We are thrilled to be a part of Live 8,” said RecycleBank co-founder and President Patrick FitzGerald. “It is an extraordinary global event, and as local company, RecycleBank is proud to help Philadelphia host guests from all over the world and demonstrate that Philadelphia can be a model environmental community.”

RecycleBank was founded in 2003 as a cost-effective and environmentally conscious solution to waste disposal. Through partnerships with more than 100 local and national vendors (including Starbucks, Whole Foods, Coca-Cola, ACME, Home Depot, and FedExKinko’s), RecycleBank financially rewards households that recycle. RecycleBank has tripled the recycling rates in the Philadelphia neighborhoods that are included in the program and will expand to the Philadelphia suburbs, Southeastern New Jersey, and Northern Delaware in September 2005. For more information please visit us at: www.recyclebank.com

They Like Us, They Really Like Us

A survey of 2005 college graduates – recently conducted by Right Management Consultants – indicates that seventy-six percent of the area's college graduates prefer to stay in the Greater Philadelphia region. Thirty-nine percent of college graduates surveyed indicated they were “very likely to stay”, 37 percent were “somewhat likely”, 15 percent were “not very likely”, 6 percent had “no idea” and 3 percent said they were “not at all likely”.

Cancer Fighting Hospital to Open in Northeast Philadelphia

According to the Philadelphia Business Journal, Cancer Treatment Centers of America (“CTCA”) – an Illinois-based company – is creating what will be its first East Coast hospital on the site of the former Parkview Hospital in Northeast Philadelphia. The cancer-fighting center - scheduled to open in November 2005 – should generate 170 new jobs in year one and up to 500 jobs within the first three years. CTCA estimates the center's regional economic impact to be $6 million in its first year of operations, and approximately $22 million annually by year five. The Philadelphia hospital will be CTCA's fourth regional cancer center, joining others in Zion (IL); Tulsa, (OK); and Seattle (WA).

LISC Makes $22 Million Committment to Philadelphia

Philadelphia Local Initiative Support Corporation (“LISC”) announced a $22 million commitment of private/public funding to Philadelphia over the next couple of years (see story). Philadelphia LISC has assisted in the development of thousands of housing units, the construction of shopping facilities and community centers, commercial corridor rejuvenation, and cultivation of Philadelphia's community development corporations’ professional capacity. Among other things, LISC gathers corporate, government and philanthropic capital to help community development corporations revitalize underserved neighborhoods.

Modern Courts Coming to Philadelphia?

This Monday, two state senators plan to introduce a measure that could make groundbreaking changes to the way judges in Philadelphia come to the bench (see story). "Our method of picking judges has become too heavily dependent on things such as ballot position, campaign contributions and street money," Sen. Vince Fumo said. "Judges should serve on the basis of their legal experience, competency and professional temperament." Consequently, Fumo and Sen. Anthony Williams (D., Phila.) have announced that they are advancing legislation that would amend the state constitution by requiring the Governor to appoint judges who are recommended by a judicial nominating commission. Who else is supporting this measure? Lynn Marks, executive director of Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts; Zack Stalberg, president of the Committee of Seventy; Andrew A. Chirls, chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association; and Michael Coard, head of a new watchdog organization named Judging the Judges. The legislation - affecting judicial placements for the Philadelphia Common Pleas and Municipal Courts - would create a 19-member judicial nominating commission populated solely by Philadelphia residents. There are a number of procedural hurdles before modern, progressive courts can come to Philadelphia. The proposal must win approval in two consecutive legislative sessions, then voters across the Commonwealth would have to approve the change (affecting only Philadelphia). Finally, Philadelphia voters also would have to support the change in a citywide referendum. A well organized and participatory selection process is the way that most states select their judges, and it's heartening to see Philadelphia move towards a more progressive judiciary selection process. For more information, go to the Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts website.

The One Great Thing About the Bush Administration (for Philadelphia)

History will show that George W. Bush was a bad president. From domestic to foreign policy, to his unyielding, repugnant, and regressive stances on homosexual marriage, gun control, and the environment, the President is a divisive, ineffectual, uninspiring leader. However, when he was first elected, I thought that if there was anything positive that his presidency could do for our great City, it would be to commence federal corruption investigations of those local public officials that our loyal partisan District Attorney would never go after. A few years later – while I don’t claim any credit/blame – news of a bug planted in the Mayor’s office revealed that the Feds had in fact been conducting a massive fraud/corruption investigation for several years. That bug (and others) led to the City Hall corruption case and recent convictions (and guilty pleas) of over a dozen political operatives. Assisted by a network of cooperating witnesses and 60,000 secretly recorded conversations, FBI agents indicate that they are far from completing their corruption-busting work in Philadelphia. "I see this case as being open when I retire in a few years," said FBI agent James K. Welch, supervisor of the public-corruption squad in Philadelphia. "We're not halfway done yet." Welch did not elaborate, but it has been reported that the Feds are examining City contracts related to insurance, Penn's Landing, minority contracting, and the Philadelphia International Airport. According to the article in last Sunday’s Philadelphia Inquirer, the FBI hopes for changes, such as proposed ethics reforms, in "what we see as a corrupt system." While the investigation and subsequent guilty pleas and convictions don’t guarantee positive changes to our political/government systems and culture, there are hopeful signs that Philadelphia residents and politicians are taking the issue seriously. The City’s Board of Ethics has staffed up and Councilman Nutter’s anti pay-to-play bills will become law, pending voter approval. While there’s certainly a downside to the corruption investigation – who needs the bad press and notoriety – the ongoing investigation will keep this issue in the public’s mind heading into the next mayoral elections and will no doubt shape the outcome, hopefully in favor of a candidate who will provide strong ethical leadership and improve the quality and focus of governance in Philadelphia.

Texas Developer Building 285 Luxury Rental Units in East Falls

Winther - a private developer from Houston, Texas - is building a $50 million, eight-building apartment complex on the grounds of a former mill in East Falls (see story). The community will be called Dobson Mills Apartments and will encompass 306,000 square feet; 7,000 square feet of street-level retail will be provided on Ridge Avenue. Winther focuses on developing luxury rental properties in high-density, urban “infill” locations. The company’s vice president – James Tollett III - believes the luxury rental market is underserved in Philadelphia and that people are seeking out new construction. The average apartment at Dobson Mills will be 1,000 square feet and monthly rents will average $1,800. "We're looking for people who like a Center City lifestyle and can put their feet on the grass every day and be five minutes from the business district," said Tollett. This new development will be proximate to downtown East Falls’ burgeoning restaurant and commercial district.

The Rendell Administration: Running the Commonwealth More Efficiently

One of the things that most people don’t fully realize about government is that it’s a real enterprise, not an abstraction to be argued about at cocktail parties. Like any large business or institution, the Commonwealth’s state government administers a vast amount of personnel, physical resources, programs, and processes. This means that there are usually many opportunities to develop management and productivity initiatives that can save money and/or enhance service levels. That said, the Rendell Administration has identified procurement strategies that will generate $140 million in annual savings (see story). It’s a result of “strategic sourcing” (i.e., organizing contracts for maximum savings) initiatives. In addition to public policy and other more “exciting” issues, this is the kind of thing that Rendell and the excellent folks on his team focus on; the mechanics and processes of government. It’s not sexy, but it’s the real stuff of managing a government.

Pennsylvania to take Action on Global Warming?

According to PennFuture, Pennsylvania House Bill 500 - the "Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act" - has been gaining political momentum in Harrisburg recently. The global warming bill, sponsored by Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware), has bipartisan support with 10 Republicans and 43 Democrats as co-sponsors.

The legislation would require Pennsylvania to:

- Conduct a statewide inventory of greenhouse gas emissions;
- Create a stakeholder group to advise the state on global warming issues;
- Develop and publish a global warming statement for Pennsylvania that includes an analysis of economic opportunities for the Commonwealth; and
- Develop an action plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state.

Center City Hotel Occupancy and Tourism: Still Going Strong

April was an exceptional month for Center City hotels, which were 83.6% occupied, up 18.6% from April 2004, according to Smith Travel Research. Revenue per available room (“RevPAR”, a standard industry measure) was at $123.22, up 27% from last April. Year to date, downtown hotels' occupancy was up 8.4% and RevPAR was up 15.2%. PKF Consulting's April industry “Snapshot” also reported that attendance was up this year through April at most attractions in Center City; the National Constitution Center was up a whopping 64.1%.

National Council of La Raza: Philadelphia Bound

According to the Center City District and the Philadelphia Multicultural Affairs Congress ("MAC"), the largest Latino organization in the country - the National Council of La Raza - is holding its 27th annual conference in Philadelphia from July 16-18. The more than 15,000 delegates - including Latino civic activists and elected leaders - will have a projected economic impact of $8.2 million.

Philadelphia School District Creates More Comprehensive History Curriculum

The Philadelphia School District has become the first in the nation to require courses in African and African-American history as prerequisites for high school graduation (see story).

Random Pennsylvania Factoids

PA has 2,569 units of local government, 500 public school districts, and 67 counties. The only state to have more units of government is Illinois. Of those municipalities, 56 are considered cities, 964 as boroughs, and 1,548 as townships. There is also one town - Bloomsburg - the only one in the state, created so by special charter championed by state Senator Charles Buckalew in 1870.

Architectural Salvage Industry in Philadelphia Expands

Second Chance – the Baltimore-based, non-profit architectural salvager – will open a retail operation this fall in Philadelphia, according to the architectural salvage industry’s leading publication, Architectural Salvage News. Second Chance’s executive director said that Philadelphia was the first city with the interest, manpower, and desire to make the enterprise a success. Second Chance focuses on deconstruction, architectural salvage, and job training. They work with low-income residents to train them in a wide variety of skills, ranging from carpentry to craftsmanship.

Philadelphia Art Museum: Going to the Moon

Ok, it’s not exactly going to the moon, but it’s just as ambitious. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is planning what will be the largest cultural expansion in our City’s history, an exciting $500 million push to expand/renovate the facility, including a dramatic subterranean excavation that would create addition display capacity (see story).

The Emperor has no Clothes

Mark Allen Hughes from Penn has an op/ed about the Street Administration’s NTI program in today’s Daily News (see story). Mr. Hughes says that “NTI was a pile of money, and its only strategic imperative was to be spent. Without a core strategy, NTI was little more than a story told by the [M]ayor about the effects of absentee landlords and boarded-up windows.” Mr. Hughes notes that - according to the fifth-year budget for NTI - the program will have incurred $300 million in new debt and have knocked down less than half of the collapsing houses in Philadelphia, not exactly stellar performance with regard to one of the program’s main goals. I remember being at a “kaffee klatch” (at Babette Joseph’s house) for Mayor Street when he was running for the office in the 1999 Democratic primary. Mr. Street discussed the NTI concept then and I was struck by how half-baked the idea sounded coming from somebody who’d been in City Council for nearly twenty years representing a largely blighted area. He didn’t seem to have an informed vision/plan for advancing a structured anti-blight program, just – as Mr. Hughes points out – a pile of money that needed to be spent and an election that needed to be won.

Fuji Bikes Pedals into Northeast Philadelphia

Quietly, Fuji Bikes has moved their world headquarters from North Jersey into an industrial park tucked near Philadelphia's Northeast Airport. Fuji has renovated an old structure and built new facilities that house office space and a distribution warehouse totaling 70,000 square feet. While Fuji isn't the largest bicycle company, they have a distinguished 100-year history and have currently captured 10% of the bike sales market and continue to grow. Fuji could have gone anywhere in the world, but chose the urban center that is rapidly becoming the center of the universe – Philadelphia – America’s hometown.

Philadelphians Mistrust Local Government According to a Recent Poll

An Issues PA-Pew statewide poll suggests that the recent Philadelphia municipal government corruption trials (and various guilty pleas and convictions) has affected area residents' perception of government. AHT is shocked. Apparently, Philadelphians faith in local government is at a low ebb. A scant 20 percent of Philadelphians say they trusted local government to do the right thing at least most of the time. In the Philly suburbs, that level of trust jumps to 47 percent. What can be done to increase Philadelphians’ level of faith in their local government? Support current efforts to tighten ethics laws and in 2007 vote for a Mayoral candidate with the fortitude and conviction to restore dignity, professionalism, and high ethical standards to the second floor of City Hall.

Convention Center Expansion: Funding is on the Way

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is expected to soon release the first installment of land acquisition funding that will expand the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s footprint. The Commonwealth committed $632 million to the project last summer. The expansion is on schedule for a late 2008 opening, according to Councilman Michael Nutter, the chair of the Convention Center Authority.

Montco to Develop Global Warming Strategy

According to PennFuture, Montgomery County will be the first county in the Commonwealth to develop a global warming strategy. Penn State University is helping Montco prepare a greenhouse gas inventory and decision makers will begin meeting this fall to develop a list of policy options that will produce emission reductions.

Councilman Nutter, Smokin' (actually, not smokin')

By a 10 to 7 vote margin, Philadelphia's City Council approved amendments that clear the way for a citywide smoking ban in bars and restaurants. Councilman Nutter shepherded the bill through after working on compromise amendments that exempts sidewalk cafes, offers a wavier process to private clubs, and gives bars an extra two years to comply with the law. For others, the smoking ban begins next January (see story).

Cira Centre: 90% Leased

The office tower being constructed adjacent to 30th Street Station in Philadelphia – the first ever in University City - is almost fully leased out (see story). Out of 730,000 square feet, 412,000 square feet will be filled by tenants moving from within Center City. The remainder of the space will be filled by companies from outside the City and State. McKinsey & Company - an international consulting firm based in New York - will open its first Philadelphia office at the Cira Center. For those not in the consulting business, getting McKinsey in town is a big deal. It’s another indication that large, prestigious international businesses want to be in an urban setting that is economically and socially vibrant; America’s Hometown, Philadelphia, PA.

Breaking Wind?

The Pennsylvania Consortium for Interdisciplinary Environmental Policy ("PCIEP") runs an energy purchasing collaborative made up of 34 member colleges and universities. Nine have increased their purchase of wind-generated electricity to at least 10 percent. These schools are Eastern University (32.2 percent), Dickinson College (12.1 percent), the University of Pennsylvania (10.4 percent), Juniata College (10 percent), Allegheny College (10 percent), Chatham College (10 percent), Duquesne University (10 percent), Keystone College (10 percent) and Mercyhurst College (10 percent). Instead of "burning the midnight oil", will people say that students pulling all nighters at these schools are "breaking wind"?

I See Dead People (voting, that is)

While it is not clear whether the Chairwoman of the Philadelphia City Commissioners has a vision for running fairer, more effective and efficient elections in the City, Marge Tartaglione is apparently psychic (see story).

Zoning Bills: First Steps Toward Reform?

Three deceivingly minor zoning bills may constitute a big first step towards regulatory reform in Philadelphia. These bills – proposed by the Building Industry Association of Philadelphia ("BIA") - will be considered at a public hearing at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 24 in City Council Chambers.

These bills address difficulties encountered by those building/improving homes in Philadelphia. According to BIA, the bills would eliminate the outdated inner court requirements adopted to offer light and ventilation to tenements, exclude architectural features such as bay windows from setback requirements, and increase the maximum residential fence height to four ft. to permit Philadelphia homeowners to use standard retail fences. “If We Fix It, They Will Come” is BIA's agenda for “streamlining the development process and modernizing the zoning code” and can be downloaded here.

High School Students from West Philadelphia Build the Word’s First Hybrid “Super Car”

The car – that took almost two years to build - accelerates from 0 to 60 in four seconds and generates almost no greenhouse pollution (see story). The team is made up of 10th to 12th grade students from West Philadelphia High School's Automotive Academy. The sports car and the team that built it are leaving soon for the 17th Annual Tour de Sol, an alternative fuel vehicle event sponsored by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (“NESEA”).

Mayor Steps Down

Saying that the city "needs a fresh start." and that "[a] good leader knows when it is time to move on" the Mayor plans to step down on July 15. The Mayor’s announcement came after a recent Time Magazine article named him one of the three worst big-city mayors in the country and as a swirl of federal investigations has hindered his administration’s ability to effectively govern. Of course, I’m talking about the Mayor of San Diego, Dick Murphy. Did you have somebody else in mind?

Question: Does anybody have an opinion about what the Mayor of our City should be doing at this time, as former employees and associates are tried for and/or convicted of federal crimes? Should he be thinking about stepping down, for the good of the City? Should the public be thinking about retiring him - via the City Charter's recall provision?

Philadelphia Film Festival Set Record

The recently completed 2005 Philadelphia Film Festival drew record crowds; 65,101, up 4,000 over last year's record, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Of 300 screenings held from April 7 to 20, a record 90 were sellouts.

Corruption Trial Verdicts Troubling You? Let's Stop Play-to-Play

In March, Philadelphia City Council could have modernized City government by passing two of Councilman Michael Nutter's bills that would have significantly changed the method by which professional service contracts are solicited and secured. The bills each needed 12 yes votes, but fell one vote short in each case. If you're disappointed, let the "status quo five" (the five Councilpeople who didn't support the bills) know that you are disappointed in them and want them to approve these bills - or similar pieces of legislation - when they come up in the future. Here's the website: http://www.stoppaytoplay.info

Cira Center is Filling Up

According to the Center City District, the Cira Centre has landed three new tenants; all are relocating from the Main Line. Mand Marblestone & Danziger - a Bala Cynwyd law firm - has leased 10,000 square feet. Reger, Rizzo, Kavulich & Darnall - a King of Prussia law firm - has signed a lease for 27,600 square feet. And Capsicum Group - a technology-consulting firm - is relocating from Berwyn, square footage unknown. Filling up this building and luring firms from outside the City is fantastic, but don't forget that they're coming in part because of the Keystone Opportunity Zone tax incentives. These tax incentives are fantastic, but think of all the other firms we'd lure if we could lower the tax burden more universally.

Philadelphia Construction Boom: Unprecedented

Ninety-five construction projects are under way in Philadelphia, with an aggregate value of $3 billion. The quantity and cost of these projects is unprecedented. In particular, Center City has never seen anything like it. The Philadelphia Business Journal has a good wrap up.

RecycleBank a “Raging Success” - Increases Residential Recycling Rates to over 50%

RecycleBank has brought a groundbreaking recycling concept to neighborhoods in Philadelphia's “Fabulous Northwest” (see story). RecycleBank provides the City of Philadelphia with bar code technology that tracks a household’s recycling volume; households subsequently earn points that can be redeemed for coupons at local businesses. Cities and towns around the nation are looking to Philadelphia as the laboratory for this novel approach to incentivizing household recycling. Patrick Fitzgerald – one of RecycleBank’s founders – reports that the recycling rate in Chestnut Hill neighborhoods served by RecycleBank has increased from 15.5% to 50% percent since the program began in January. Initially, 600 households were involved; the program has since doubled. RecycleBank was launched by social entrepreneurs Fitzgerald (who is from Jenkintown) and Philadelphia native Ron Gonen, who conjured up the business model while graduate students.

RiverLink Ferry Season Begins

The RiverLink Ferry is now operating between Penn’s Landing and the Camden waterfront. The ferry runs Friday to Sunday from April to October. Daily service is available from May through September. Another ship - the Independence - will offer 90-minute harbor tours beginning May 1.

School District Establishes Center City Region

The School District of Philadelphia – led by the visionary CEO Paul Vallas - has established a 10th, separate region for Center City that includes all public elementary, middle and high schools in the area circumscribed by Poplar Street, Washington Avenue, and the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. This initiative is a collaborative effort of the Center City District and Philadelphia School District designed to improve public school options for Center City residents through marketing campaigns, expansion of school choice programs and infrastructure improvements. For more information, go to the Center City Schools Initiative.

Philadelphia and the BPT: Imperfect Together

The Philadelphia Inquirer had an interesting story this weekend about Philadelphia’s wage tax. It talked about recent wage tax collection data and the story it tells; while employment and population continue to shrink (albeit slowly) incomes in Philadelphia are going up. The last four years for which the City has complete data – 2001 through 2004 – indicate that private-sector jobs in Philadelphia decreased approximately 4.3 percent. The wage tax rate paid by residents and commuters also went down, as it has annually since 1996. However, aggregate wage tax revenue increase during that same period by over $60 million. These figures suggest that the “Philadelphia story is no longer one of straight-line loss in employment and people, but rather of an evolving city, gradually becoming home to higher-paying jobs and higher-earning residents.” However, Philadelphia's recent gains are apparently concentrated in sectors dominated by non-profit employers such as colleges and hospitals. Other industry sectors are either static or decreasing in Philadelphia, but growing elsewhere in the region. Firms that create such jobs are for-profit and subject to the City's tax on gross receipts and profits – the Business Privilege Tax. This tax receipt data suggests that such for-profits are apprehensive about investing in Philadelphia. What’s the solution? Continued incremental wage tax reductions and a wholesale reengineering of the business privilege tax, with a gradual phase out of the gross receipts portion. Philadelphia Forward and about a million other people have been talking about it for years; the question has been asked and answered, with anecdotal and empirical evidence proving the point over and over again.

Cruising from Philadelphia

The cruise ship terminal at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard will see more than 92,000 travelers this year, 50% more than last (see story). In fact, cruising from Philadelphia has become so popular that some are concerned that the former Navy Yard will run out of capacity for passenger handling. Not to worry. The Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation - the agency that manages and markets the Naval Yard - is working with the Philadelphia Port Authority to find expansion space.

Another Philadelphia Hidden Treasure: The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is a regional and national leader in urban environmental education. According to their website “The Schuylkill Center's primary purpose is to promote, through environmental education, the preservation and improvement of our natural environment by fostering appreciation, understanding and responsible use of the ecosystem; by disseminating information on current environmental issues; and by encouraging appropriate public response to environmental problems.” The Center owns over 400 acres of land in Andorra - the largest private parcel in Philadelphia - in the most northwesterly part of the City.

May is "Buy Local Philly Month"

When we buy local, money stays in our neighborhoods and helps build a strong, local economy. Did you know that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $45 goes back into the community while only $14 comes back when that same $100 is spent at a chain store? A new campaign is launching in May to support local, independent Philadelphia business. For more information, check out www.buylocalphilly.com

February Results for Center City Hotels

Center City's hotels did well during a typically slow month. According to Tyson Hospitality Consulting, hotel occupancy was at 61.9%, a 3.7% increase from February 2004. Most rooms were occupied by commercial travelers (35%) with convention/meeting attendees and leisure travelers at 31% and 26%, respectively.

Tax Reform in Philadelphia: Ya Think?

According to Philadelphia Forward, “A 1998 study by Vertex, Inc., a state and local tax research and software firm, determined that Philadelphia’s business tax burden was the highest among 27 major U. S. cities. The study estimated the combined federal, state, and local tax liability of a representative service company with $15 million in gross revenue and $1.5 million profits. In terms of local business taxes, Philadelphia’s tax burden ranked fourth out of 27 cities, behind only New York City, Chicago, and Cleveland. While the overall business tax burden in Philadelphia in 1998 declined by 2.15 percent from the 1993 estimate published in a previous Vertex report—more than any other city—the overall tax burden in Philadelphia in 1998 remained the highest among the 27 comparison cities.” Think this is just a concern to big and wealthy corporations? Not exactly; small businesses are excoriated by our City’s oppressive tax burden. Check out this recent film by Philadelphia Forward that chronicles the plight of small business in our town.

Clinton, Rendell, Kvaerner, and $1 Billion Dollars

As reported by KYW radio, former president Bill Clinton and former Mayor and now Governor Ed Rendell were in town today for the announcement of a $1 billion, 10-ship deal at the Kvaerner shipyard. Before Kvaerner, the former Philadelphia Navy Yard had gone three decades without a constructing a new ship. Ten double-hulled ships (pursuant to new environmental safety regulations) are to be fabricated, guaranteeing over 1,000 jobs through 2010 and could possibly generate 5,000 jobs in service/trade businesses that support the facility. Reviving the shipbuilding industry in Philadelphia was fueled by an infusion of hundreds of millions of Federal and State economic development funding; cynics and realists alike thought this might be too much. While hindsight is certainly 20/20 and nobody should gloat about the fabulous success of this revival initiative, it should be an inspiration to the Philadelphia region and others who would bring back manufacturing jobs to a city that used to be known as the “workshop of the world.”

Temple Town to Get a Supermarket: Another Positive Development for North Philadelphia

The Fresh Grocer - a Drexel Hill-based supermarket chain with three stores in University City and West Philadelphia - has signed a lease to operate a 24-hour supermarket in Progress Plaza Shopping Center, right next to Temple University on North Broad Street (see story). Fresh Grocer's occupancy will begin after Progress Plaza is renovated and supermarket space is constructed. It is expected that having a strong anchor tenant like Fresh Grocer sign on will encourage private lenders and the Commonwealth to finance the estimated $7-$10 million project. The North Philadelphia renaissance continues.

Center City Parking Lots: Enough Already

A recent, comprehensive Philadelphia Planning Commission study has determined "there is a major gap between the perceived availability of parking and the actual number of spaces that are available at any one time." (see story). Philadelphia parking policy has been driven by developers and anecdotes; let’s hope that the findings in this report signal the beginning of a more informed parking policy that is less auto-centric and guided by an informed and enlightened vision for Center City.

Philadelphia Sustainable Business Network Annual Conference

The 2005 SBN Annual Conference (May 20-21, 2005 at the University of Pennsylvania’s Law School) will bring together entrepreneurs, non-profit leaders, government representatives and citizens who care about building a sustainable economy in the Philadelphia region. Entrepreneurs will learn how to strengthen their business and their communities. Speakers will include Randy Hayes, founder and Board President of the Rainforest Action Network and current Director of Sustainability for the City of Oakland (CA) and Amy Goodman, host and executive producer of Democracy Now! For more information, go to www.sbnphiladelphia.org.

Proposed Quantitative Performance Measurement to Gauge School/Community Connectivity

Currently, no metric gauges connectivity between a Philadelphia public neighborhood school and its catchment area, the community in which it sits and ostensibly serves. School/community connectivity is important for a variety of reasons, including a school’s potential to be an educational, social, and recreational community center. Further, connectivity is important in that taxpayers with children are essentially customers (potential or actual) of their local school; these taxpayers/customers are justified in their expectation that the local school will actively seek out their “business” (e.g., sending their children to the school) and work to keep it over the long-term.

One measure of school/community connectivity is to track the percentage of eligible students attending a catchment area’s school. Initial measurements could serve as a baseline against which to gauge future progress/regress. Percentage metrics could be developed for the entire catchment area as well as sub-catchment areas. A more refined sub-catchment measurement would reveal how well a school’s student attraction/retention efforts are working in smaller subsets of a community/catchment area. If the percentage of eligible students from the catchment or sub-catchment area decreases over a period of time, strategies should be developed and implemented to reverse the trend. Relatedly, if sub-catchment areas are lower to being with, strategies to address particular attraction/retention issues could be developed. Creating this metric would be possible using GIS mapping and demographic data.

Philadelphia to Host 2020 Olympics?

An advisory committee has been formed to determine whether the Philadelphia region (including the suburban counties, NJ and DE) has the resources to compete for the games and if so, whether we should pursue them. The committee is collaborating with the Philadelphia Sports Congress, a division of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Pennsylvania Economy League. The William Penn Foundation is providing funding. Joe Torsella – who led the effort to build the City’s spectacular National Constitution Center – is heading up the advisory committee.

Encourage City Council to Pass Anti "Pay-to-Play" Legislation

In March, Philadelphia City Council could have modernized City government by passing two of Councilman Michael Nutter's bills that would have significantly changed the method by which professional service contracts are solicited and secured. The bills each needed 12 yes votes, but fell one vote short in each case. If you're disappointed, let the "status quo five" (the five Councilpeople who didn't support the bills) know that you are disappointed in them and want them to approve these bills - or similar pieces of legislation - when they come up in the future. Here's the website: http://www.stoppaytoplay.info

More Center City Condo News

A new, 43-story condominium complex has been proposed for the northwest corner of 21st and Market Streets. The project will also include approximately 10,000 sq. ft. of street-level retail. Solomon Cardwell Buenz - who designed the St. James project near Washington Square - is the architect.

Spanning the Globe

US Airways has announced plans for non-stop flights from Philadelphia International Airport to Venice and Barcelona starting next month. Additional flights to Bermuda, Denver and Los Angeles are also in the works.

Philadelphia Taxis to Improve

The Philadelphia Parking Authority (“PPA”) will assume authority over Philadelphia’s 1,600 taxicabs and limos on April 10th. The PPA has set tight new rules requiring drivers to take a five-day course that includes customer-service training and will also require GPS technology as well as newer, more presentable vehicles. The plan is to improve taxi service for residents and visitors alike.

The Cookie Crumbles?

So far, five unions – the Fraternal Order of Police (“FOP”), District Council 47 (the “white collar” City workers’ union), District Council 33 (the "blue collar" City workers' union), Local 234 (the transit wokers' union), and Local 1199C (the hospital workers' union) have thrown their support behind Seth Williams' surging candidacy for District Attorney. Young Philly Politics has got the latest. Union support in Philadelphia isn't everything, nor should it be. However, it can be important. These recent endorsements certainly reveal that a diverse group of labor groups think the DA's office should head in another direction.

Hotel Occupancy Off to a Strong Start in 2005

Smith Travel Research reported a 60.1% occupancy in January/February for Center City hotels, compared to 55.7% for the same months a year prior. February 2005 was at 61.9% this year, compared to 59% in 2004.

More North Broad Street Rebound

Over the next five months, the Philadelphia School District will consolidate multiple administrative operations into one refurbished building at 440 N. Broad Street (see story). When fully occupied this Summer, 1,551 administrators will work there; approximately 500 visitors daily will visit on business. A few restaurants, a food store, and residential projects have commenced and more are planned. Census tracts in the area grew from by 100 residents from 1990 - 2000. Planned residential expansion could double that increase during the next few years.

Economic Development in North Philadelphia

A planned $75 million project at North Broad Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue in North Philadelphia will contain a 7-screen movie house, 60,000 sq. ft. of retail, and housing for 800 students (see story). This project is adjacent to Temple University, North Philadelphia's economic powerhouse.

They'd Rather Fly From Philly

Philadelphia International Airport now attracts more domestic passengers than any of New York's three major airports. A significant number of New Yorkers are making the two-hour trip south in search of cheaper flights. A recent New York Times article attributes the attraction to plummeting airfares related to the Philadelphia debut of Southwest Airlines in May.

Philadelphia Airport Gets an "A"

Standard & Poor's has affirmed Philadelphia International Airport's "A" credit rating and offered a stable outlook (see story). Among reasons given for the strong rating: moderate cost/debt levels for an airport of its size and hub status; steady passenger growth with “enplaned” numbers growing an average 2.4% for fiscal years 2001-2004; a diverse local economy; and a strong origin/destination base of 66% of total enplaned passengers in fiscal year 2004. What does this all mean? Philadelphia International Airport is well-managed and the prognosis for its future is good.

Most Sportsmanlike: Philadelphia School District Athletes

The School District of Philadelphia has recently joined the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (“PIAA”). PIAA membership establishes connectivity between the Commonwealth’s broader student athlete community and the Philadelphia School District. One notable recent achievement: during the 2003-2004 school year, the PIAA reported that Philadelphia had the lowest number of players and coaches disqualified or penalized (see story). Relatedly, the District is in the midst of a $27 million spending program to upgrade programs and implement non-traditional urban school district programs such as golf and crew. Take a second, third, and fourth look at what Paul Vallas, his staff, and the School Reform Commission are doing; it's nothing short of revolutionary for Philadelphia's public schools.

Don't be Sad, the House of Blues Found a Home in Center City

Plans are moving forward to put a House of Blues in the bottom floors of the “The Grand”, the luxury apartment building at 15th and Chestnut Streets (see story). A letter of intent has been signed and the process is moving forward. The House of Blues – second-largest live music promoter in the world - has operations in eight other US cities.

Biomass Exporter Opens Philadelphia Port Facility

Green Energy Resources of Huntington (NY) has opened a port facility in Philadelphia that will annually export up to 1 million tons of biomass to other countries (see story). Biomass (plant matter used to fuel wood-burning power generation facilities) is the 4th largest energy fuel source in the world, after petroleum, natural gas and coal.

Planning Commission Executive Director to Step Down, Deputy Will Take Over

Richard Lombardo – a 35-year Planning Commission veteran and current Deputy Executive Director – will assume the post of Acting City Planning Commissioner when the incumbent (Maxine Griffith) steps down (see story).

No Retreat, No Surrender

One bill would have virtually banned smoking in public places. The other would have prohibited campaign contributors from getting no bid City contracts (see story). Both didn’t move forward last week in Council. The first didn’t go to a vote and was held and the other was narrowly defeated – by just one vote. Will these setbacks dissuade Councilman Michael Nutter, the bills’ legislative shepherd? Nope. Said the Councilman, "I'm tenacious. I don't just drop issues, and these issues won't go away." Councilman Nutter has faced the mountain before and climbed to the top. You can thank him for the Police Advisory and Tax Reform Commissions. Don’t think he and his allies on Council can do it? AHT does. AHT believes. AHT has higher expectations for this City and believes that our best days – and a government to complement them – are ahead of us. Do you want to do something about it? Send a fax to City Council - via Hallwatch - and let them know where you stand.

$100 Million Mixed-Used Project Slated for University City

The University of Pennsylvania and the Hanover Company have announced plans to create a $100 million mixed-use development including high-end apartments, stores and a parking facility at the northwest corner of 34th and Chestnut Streets (see story). The seven or eight story structure will contain 295 apartments. Plans call for project commencement in September with completion by late 2007.

University City: A Neighborhood Ascends

In 1995, Penn began implementing a strategic plan to improve University City; ten years later, their actions have produced dramatic results (see story). The mechanism for moving forward much of this progress is the University City District (“UCD”). Since 1997, this special-services agency has supplemented municipal services in areas such as security and litter abatement and taken a more administerial role with respect to district governance and economic development. The results are decidedly impressive; according to a recently released report, 19 retail, entertainment and eating establishments opened last year, including World Cafe Live. The Cira Centre - a 28-story office tower and the first on the west side of the Schuylkill – will open later this year right next to Amtrak’s 30th Street Station. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (“CHOP”) $650 million expansion will double that facility’s size. Finally, the population has increased by nearly 3,000 and median home prices have jumped from $72,700 to $245,000.

College Students Love Pennsylvania

According to the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania, the Commonwealth does better than 49 other states in college student retention (see story). Pennsylvania has overtaken New York – for the first time - as the #1 destination for first-time freshmen leaving their home states to attend university. The net gain is 12,209 students; Pennsylvania is now #1 in this "net migration" metric as well. In the longer term, nearly 20% of out-of-state graduates will remain five years after graduation. This means 3,500 young, college-educated workers are added to our state every year; not too shabby. Finally, with over 80 institutions of higher learning in or near Philadelphia, our town is reaping a majority of the benefits from this demographic trend. The evidence? A booming real estate market and exploding restaurant/entertainment sector and a generally younger, hipper vibe that's getting hard to ignore.

Condo-mania in Philadelphia

Since 1998, over 12,000 residential units (mostly condos) have sprouted up in Center City. Citywide, there are more than 15,000 new single-family homes and condos proposed (see story). Why is this happening? A couple of reasons: (1) Tax Benefits: Philadelphia offers a 10-year property tax abatement on commercial and industrial buildings converted to residential use and for new residential construction; and (2) Demographic Trends: Baby boomers with money are looking to downsize and move back into the City for the social and cultural amenities and young urban professionals are looking for relatively inexpensive first homes that are close to their jobs and social lives in the City.

A Vision for Enhanced Rail Transit in Philadelphia

The Delaware River Port Authority (“DRPA”) is contemplating various transit enhancements, including two options with direct implications for Center City. One alternative would create new trolley/electric streetcar service originating at PATCO’s Franklin Square Station (currently moth-balled) to Spring Garden Street and Pier 70 along Delaware Avenue. Service could be extended to the burgeoning Navy Yard complex and stadia in South Philadelphia. Another possibility would extend SEPTA’s Subway/Surface light rail system underground along Market Street to Delaware Avenue with service extending north to Spring Garden Street and south to the Pier 70 shopping plaza. Service could be extended to the Navy Yard complex and stadia in South Philadelphia.

Philadelphia's Aspiring Class

Tom Ferrick has an excellent column in today's Philadelphia Inquirer that discusses the great work that Paul Vallas (the Philadelphia School District's CEO) is doing to respond to the "Aspiring Class". Ferrick notes recent School District initiatives to create more magnet high schools and to implement enrichment programs at all district grammar schools. Ferrick describes the Aspiring Class as "consist[ing] of parents in the city - who come in all colors and classes, who want more for their children than marginal or minimum-wage jobs, and who see education as the way to achieve it. They demand more of their children and they demand more from their children's schools."

While public education is a major priority, the Aspiring Class is a growing demographic in Philadelphia that has broader concerns. The Aspiring Class loves the City and urban living but demands excellent public services. If they don't get what they need here (or don't know they can get it), they leave. Other City agencies would do well to listen to and respond to the Aspiring Class. Keeping these folks - and their tremendous intellectual, social, and fiscal resources - are essential to the long-term economic viability and social vitality of our great city.

Another Philadelphia Hidden Treasure: Settlement Music School

Settlement Music School was founded in 1908 and is the largest community arts school in the nation. With six branches in the area, Settlement provides instruction in music, dance, and the related arts to more than 8,000 students on a weekly basis.

Philadelphia School District: Pursuing Excellence

The Philadelphia School District plans to expand programs for high-achieving and gifted elementary students, including creating three separate schools that could serve up to 1,200 students by September 2006. In addition, 50 centers featuring more rigorous curricula will be created within existing schools next year. And beginning in September, every school will offer after-school, Saturday, and summer school programs for high achievers in reading, math and science. Paul Vallas and his amazing team continue to delight and amaze.

Another Center City Office Tower Planned

Plans to build Center City's third new office building are coming together as Viacom International contemplates occupancy at a proposed 15th and Arch office tower. The 17-story structure would house Viacom’s local television broadcasting operations. If everything works out, Viacom would move in about March 2007.

Symphony House Sales Hit a High Note

A week prior to the sales office opening at Dranoff Properties’ 31-story “Symphony House” at Broad and Pine Streets, nearly 1/3 of its 163 condominiums were sold. The Center City residential housing boom continues apace, with ownership and rental units being added with rapidity. Philadelphia’s growing downtown population (the third largest in the US) continues to fuel an explosion of retail, culinary, and entertainment offerings.

PA Democrats - Growin' Up

In a show of unity evidencing a maturation that could propel the Pennsylvania Democratic Party to ascendancy, the field of strong contenders in the US Senate primary has been reduced to one. Barbara Hafer and Joe Hoeffel - both excellent politicians and admirable public servants - have put aside personal aspirations and provided Robert Casey a clear path to the nomination. AHT believes this is a good thing; the Democratic Party - nationally and in Pennsylvania - must become more ideologically diverse to win national and statewide races. Democrats also must adopt strategies that can propel them to electoral victory. Sometimes this means getting behind those who don’t pass our myriad litmus tests but can get the most votes. In contrast to Casey, AHT is unequivocally pro-choice (of the safe, legal, and rare variety) and is vehemently pro gun control; however, we believe that winning elections - this one in particular - is more important than ideological orthodoxy and a potentially divisive and costly primary.

Philadelphia Chamber Supports Smoking Ban

The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce has declared its support for Councilman Michael Nutter’s legislation that would prohibit smoking in most public venues - including restaurants, bars, and hotels. “The facts prove that banning smoking in public places will not adversely affect business," said Mark Schweiker, Chamber President/CEO and former Governor of Pennsylvania (see story).

Philadelphia Phlash Returns for the Season

Beginning March 1, 2005 and running through November 30, 2005, purple Phlash buses will ride again. The Phlash fare is $1 and its route takes riders to 19 important destinations including Center City hotels, Penn's Landing, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Temple Womens Basketball: Best in the Region

Temple's Lady Owls have won 21 consecutive games and became the first team since the 1996-97 season to go undefeated in the Atlantic 10. They are nationally ranked at #16 - higher than the Villanova men. Dawn Staley - the coach of Temple, Philadelphia native, and Olympic gold medalist - just received the Atlantic-10 "Coach of the Year" award for the second straight time. The Lady Owls are seeded #1 going into the A-10 tournament this weekend.

Former Green Party Candidate for Governor to Try Out for Pittsburgh Steelers

This is funny but accurate...from Politics PA:

(HARRISBURG, PA)—Former Green Party candidate for governor, Michael Morrill, today declared his intention to try out for the position of wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Morrill admits he has no experience in organized football, has only a casual fan’s understanding of the game and at age 50 might be a little slow for the National Football League. When asked why he thought he might be qualified to be a wide receiver for the Steelers, Morrill said he was inspired by four-time Super Bowl Champion Lynn Swann. “If Lynn Swann can run for governor with absolutely no public policy experience, why shouldn’t I be able to try out for the Steelers?” Morrill responded. Morrill was also asked what he thought his chances were to make the Steelers. “About the same as Swann’s chances to be elected governor,” he replied.

Innovative Blogger Networking Site: Bloggers Market

From their website: "Let's say you read [various blogs] everyday. Many of us are going to these same blogs, but don’t have the opportunity to interact when we are there. Even if your favorite blog offers comment or diary opportunities, you still basically stick to the thread topics and overall focus of that blog, be it politics, music or sports, etc. Bloggers Market will enable bloggers to "network in ways [they] can't on [their] favorite blogs. Here [they] can search for items posted by...fellow blog readers who list services, meetups or old items they want to sell and identify themselves by listing their favorite blog."

Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development

The Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development (“PHENND”) is a collaboration of 42 local colleges/universities that strives to build its members' capacity to develop mutually beneficial, sustained, and community-based service learning partnerships. PHENND seeks to rejuvenate/support local communities and their public schools through the cultivation of civic responsibility among the region's colleges and universities.

Excessive Fragmentation: PA has Too Many Local Governments

Pennsylvania has nearly 2,600 local governments and a few thousand quasi-governmental units. Sixty percent of local governments in PA have populations under 2,500. This excessive fragmentation thwarts local governments’ ability to effectively and efficiently deliver services. The answer? While easier said than done, municipal consolidations/mergers must be encouraged and small, non-viable units should be discouraged, possibly through withholding of state funding. See Terry Madonna's op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer for more background.