Explainer: Why you can't divide city's billion dollar five-year budget gap by five
March 5, 2009
It turns out what may seem like a math problem a 5th grader could solve, isn't as simple as dividing by five. The city's estimated $1.045 billion dollar budget shortfall over five years isn't evenly spread over each year. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler has more.
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More information:
You can hear Elizabeth Fiedler's entire interview with Budget Director Agostini by clicking on the play button below or download the interview by right clicking on this link and choosing "Save Link As."
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Plus, Where did the budget gap come from? Check out the city's presentation on what makes up the greater parts of the shortfall.
Connections for NJ GOP gubernatorial candidate may jeopardize state campaign funding
March 5, 2009
The Republican gubernatorial race is starting to pick up steam leading up to the June primary. However, WHYY's Monica Miller says one candidate who worked for an anti-tax interest group may have hit a snag collecting matching funds for his war chest.
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Fumo jury to begin deliberations
March 5, 2009
A jury of ten women and two men will begin deliberation Thursday in the federal corruption trial of former state Senator Vince Fumo. Fumo faces 139 counts of fraud and obstruction of justice. The jury heard dramatic conclusions from both sides on Wednesday. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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More trash talk about PhillyStat budget meeting
March 5, 2009
Trash was a hot button issue for top city officials at a meeting last night. The Mayor and City Council discussed the citizen feedback they've received from community budget forums, a citizen survey, and "kitchen table" talks. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports that City Councilmembers are divided over a proposal to charge residents fees for trash collection.
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Phila. school superintendent dialing for dollars
March 5, 2009
It takes a village to raise a child, as the saying goes. But according to Philadelphia Schools Superintendent Arlene Ackerman, it also takes a village to fund a five-year school reform plan. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports the schools CEO is looking at all possible sources of revenue.
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Rendell announces close oversight of state's stimulus funds
March 5, 2009
Governor Rendell says Pennsylvania is instituting "unprecedented" oversight of the federal stimulus process. On Wednesday he outlined three steps the commonwealth is taking to make sure federal funding is spent correctly. WHYY's Scott Detrow was there.
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Camden financial records disorganized for third consecutive year
March 4, 2009
For the third consecutive year - Camden's financial records are so disorganized that an auditor says he can't judge the city's economic status. New Jersey took over Camden seven years ago, promising to improve the city and its financial picture. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Fumo defense rests its case today
March 4, 2009
Following four and a half months of testimony, the defense will rest its case today in the federal corruption trial of former Pennsylvania state Senator Vince Fumo. The former Democratic powerbroker faces 139 counts of fraud and obstruction of justice. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Corzine offers ideas on ending budget defecit
March 4, 2009
New Jersey Democratic Governor Jon Corzine's office is floating some ideas about how he plans to plug a 7 billion dollar budget hole. WHYY's Monica Miller looks at reaction from a Republican lawmaker.
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Defense closing: Don't "demonized" Fumo
March 4, 2009
The fate of former state Senator Vince Fumo is now in the hands of a jury of two men and ten women. The four and a half month federal corruption trial wrapped up today with a dramatic pitch to the jury by both the prosecution and the defense. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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U.S. Supreme Court hears judicial ethics dispute
March 4, 2009
The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments yesterday in a sensitive dispute about judicial ethics. At issue - when do elected judges have to recuse themselves if a campaign contributor is party to the case? The ruling could affect how judges in Pennsylvania are elected. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Governor Rendell offers stimulus funds for higher education
March 4, 2009
Governor Rendell says he'll use federal stimulus money to restore more than 40 million dollars in higher education cuts that he initially proposed in last month's budget address. The heads of state-related universities say while they appreciate the funding, their institutions still face an up-hill battle as WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Farmer Philly? Vacant lots targeted as crop sites
March 3, 2009
Philadelphians who live near one of the city's many vacant lots, may be surprised to learn who their new neighbors might be. About a dozen farmers have expressed interest in a city pilot project to grow crops on empty city land. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Philadelphia Daily News gets a little closer to rival
March 3, 2009
The Philadelphia Daily News will soon be printed as an edition of The Philadelphia Inquirer. The Daily News will be published as an edition of The Inquirer effective March 30th. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the papers will remain separate for now.
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Snowstorm means big expense for state, city
March 3, 2009
The weekend snowstorm turned out to be an expensive one for the Philadelphia region. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation spent about $2 million in the region. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports timing is everything when it comes to snowplowing.
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Mayor cautious but open to citizen-advised revenue raising ideas
March 3, 2009
Mayor Nutter says he's considering citizen input, while he decides what cuts and tax increases to include in his upcoming budget address. More than 1,700 taxpayers attended four budget forums and shared their values as they brainstormed about how to close a roughly $200 million annual budget gap. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler has more.
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Few specifics on Rendell's tuition plan
March 3, 2009
Details of Pennsylvania Governor Rendell's controversial video poker proposal are hard to come by during budget hearings in Harrisburg, as WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Arlen Specter faces tough challenge from former GOP rival
March 3, 2009
A former rival of Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter could be coming back for another challenge. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports Pat Toomey is thinking about putting his hat in the ring again.
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Closing arguments continue in Fumo trial
March 2, 2009
The corruption trial for former state Senator Vince Fumo is expected to continue Tuesday with closing arguments by Fumo's defense lawyer. The government charges the Democratic power broker with defrauding the State Senate, the Independence Seaport Museum and a non-profit of $3.5 million dollars. But a key element of the case against Fumo includes obstruction of justice charges. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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New Jersey lawmakers debate on stimulus dollars
March 2, 2009
Some New Jersey legislators say they are worried about whether the state will distribute federal stimulus dollars fairly - especially when it comes to construction contracts. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Funeral for PA guardsmen killed in Iraq
March 2, 2009
Funeral services will be held today for a member of the Pennsylvania National Guard who died in Iraq. 32-year-old Staff Sergeant Mark Baum from Quakertown was recently killed in action north of Bagdad. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Development continues along Philadelphia's "other" river
March 2, 2009
Philadelphia is moving forward with development of the Delaware River Waterfront. Over the weekend, officials announced a $1 million foundation grant and $1 million in city money will be used for planning, design, and construction on the Delaware Riverfront. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports a similar deal is helping to develop the city's other waterfront.
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City, unions prepare for tough contract talks
March 2, 2009
Philadelphia labor unions are working under a one-year contract that ends on June 30th. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports with budget talks approaching, the city and union are beginning to square off on contentious issues like healthcare.
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Snow slows region down
March 2, 2009
An early March snowstorm has slowed things down in the Philadelphia region. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports now that the worst of the storm has passed, it's time to clean up and work on returning to normal.
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City snow alerts break digital ground
March 2, 2009
The snowstorm that bombarded the region last night and this morning was a test for the Delaware Valley's emergency notification systems. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports city officials are happy with the results.
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Mayor announces grant, plan for Delaware riverfront
March 1, 2009
Today Mayor Nutter, Councilman Frank DiCicco and the William Penn Foundation will announce a major grant to help make the Delaware riverfront a major destination. For years, some city officials and residents have said the waterfront is poorly used and not easily accessible for pedestrians. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Plan for Delaware to be put into action
February 28, 2009
Philadelphia is moving forward with plans to develop the Delaware River Waterfront. City officials and representatives of the William Penn Foundation have launched new efforts designed to make the riverfront easier to get to, and more fun for the people who do. Grant money will help kick into gear the Penn Praxis "Action Plan for the Central Delaware." WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Airport trains for epidemic preparedness
February 28, 2009
Philadelphia International Airport Employees this week undertook an exercise to determine their preparedness for an overseas epidemic. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Efforts to put Philadelphia in the "Green Belt"
February 27, 2009
The manufacturing jobs that once kept Philadelphia's economy up and unemployment down, may soon be replaced with green jobs. At an announcement this morning, two local groups said they'll use major grants from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to push forward with green job training programs. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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City delays again fix to property assessment system
February 27, 2009
In Philadelphia there are two factors that determine how much tax people pay on their home: the dollar value assessed by the Board of Revision of Taxes, and the property tax rate set by City Council. The city's been working toward a new, simpler system where properties would be assessed their actual value. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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City Council holds private budget meeting
February 27, 2009
Philadelphia City Council held a private meeting this week to discuss public budget hearings. Media reports have criticized the legislative body for doing so, and legal experts are now asking whether the closed-door session was within the scope of law. WHYY's Kerry Grens reports.
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City workers demand new efforts to collect revenue
February 26, 2009
The union representing white collar workers in Philadelphia is among those calling for a revenue Czar to improve the city's tax collections. But WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the request by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, is falling on deaf ears at City Hall.
Caption: City white collar union leader Cathy Scott says city can avoid cuts by collecting revenue.
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Council not keen on shrinking itself
February 26, 2009
Philadelphia City Council members are not happy with a suggestion to shrink their legislative body to cut costs. The city's political watchdog group says Council's seventeen member makeup was established at a time when the city had twice as many residents. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Employee Free Choice Act pushed in Philly rally
February 26, 2009
Organized labor's effort to change the 1935 National Labor Relations Act has sparked a major struggle between unions and employers. Democrats in Congress say passing the Employee Free Choice Act, also known as EFCA, is one of their top priorities. The Act would let employees vote on whether to form a union through a controversial system known as "card check." WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that unions hope it will help them gain ground lost over the years.
Caption: AFL-CIO Secretary Treasurer Richard Trumka
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Early opposition to Art Museum price increases from City Council
February 26, 2009
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is struggling to make ends meet. The museum wants to raise admission prices which is subject to city approval. But some members of City Council, are reluctant to immediately embrace the idea. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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RNC chair sends warning shot to Specter
February 26, 2009
The new Republican National Committee chair Michael Steele has suggested the party establishment might not necessarily back the three Republicans who voted for the President's stimulus package. That includes Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter, who's up for re-election in 2010, after more than 25 years in office. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Foxwoods casino still searching for a home
February 26, 2009
The Foxwoods casino originally slated to open along the Delaware Waterfront discussed setting up shop in the Gallery Mall at 11th and Market Streets. Now according to a Foxwoods spokesperson, the slots parlor's list of possible future homes includes the Strawbridge's building further down Market Street. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Pew survey reveals opinions on quality of life in Philly
February 26, 2009
A new survey by the Pew Charitable Trusts examines Philadelphians' opinions on quality of life in their city. In this, the second of a two part study on the issue, citizens weighed in on what they think are assets to the city, as well as what problems need to be addressed. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Design professionals advise on improving access to healthy food
February 26, 2009
Some underused areas of the city are getting a makeover from design professionals. The Community Design Collaborative provides community groups with free design services from a network of hundreds of local archiects, planners, and design professionals. Community leaders looking to improve food access in low and moderate income neighborhoods applied for help from the pros. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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New Jersey's highest court upholds police right to search cars without warrants
February 26, 2009
New Jersey's highest court has upheld the ability of police officers to search a stopped car without a warrant. But the state Supreme Court set more limits on what constitutes an urgent need for them to do so. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Pennsylvania residents support Governor Rendell's budget proposals
February 26, 2009
Pennsylvania residents support the bulk of Governor Rendell's budget proposals including legalizing video poker. But he could have a harder time getting some of his other plans through the legislature. That's according to the latest Franklin and Marshall College poll released today. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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With 4 workshops complete citizens wonder what's next
February 25, 2009
Over 1800 people participated in a series of community budget forums that wrapped up this week. The forums have brought people out to comment on what the city should spend their money on and what they would be willing to live without. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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South Jersey transit agency expects funding to double
February 25, 2009
A South Jersey transit agency expects its federal funding to double thanks to the economic stimulus plan, but WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that PATCO officials say that still won't cover their long-term capital needs.
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Catholic church needs to raise $200 million
February 25, 2009
Amid the recession, Philadelphia's Roman Catholic Archbishop says the church needs to raise $200 million dollars. But some say the church needs to be more financially transparent. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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VP's task force to discuss green jobs
February 25, 2009
On Friday, Philadelphia will host the first meeting of Vice President Joe Biden's Middle Class Task Force, and the high-powered group will be talking about Green Jobs. WHYY's Denis Devine reports on why Philadelphia is hosting the meeting.
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Pennsylvania Secretary of State backs early voting expanision
February 25, 2009
Pennsylvania's Secretary of State is backing efforts to expand early voting in the commonwealth before the next presidential election. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Camden Mayor will not seek third term
February 25, 2009
Camden Mayor Gwendolyn Faison has announced she will not seek a third term in office. She was first elected in 2001 and then again in 2005. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports her successor will become mayor of a city largely run by the state.
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New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission must raise fees
February 25, 2009
New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission says it has to raise fees but not because the state department is short on revenue. WHYY's Mary Fuchs explains.
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Bankruptcy proceedings expensive proposition for Philly newspapers
February 25, 2009
Bankruptcy court proceedings are underway for Philadelphia Newspapers Incorporated, the parent company of the Philadelphia Inqurirer and Daily News. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the company will spend a lot of money going through the bankruptcy process.
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Workshops complete, Nutter continues work on 2010 budget
February 24, 2009
The four community budget workshops are over, but work on the city budget continues. WHYY's Tom MacDonald spoke with Mayor Nutter about what impact the forums will have on his budget decisions.
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More information:
You can see the most up-to-date results from the first three budget workshops here, here, and here. Reports, videos and material from "the wailing wall" for the fourth workshop will be available soon.
WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler had this report from last night's final budget workshop.
Schools chief releases reform plan, some are skeptical
February 24, 2009
Philadelphia School District superintendent Arlene Ackerman has released more details on her plan to reform the city's public schools. A large focus is on high schools. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Republican jumps into race for City Controller
February 24, 2009
The field of candidates running for Philadelphia City Controller is filling out. Alan Butkovitz is expected to launch his bid for reelection at a press conference today, WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports that the Democratic incumbent's announcement will come one day after a new Republican challenger entered the race.
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Final community budget forum
February 24, 2009
Over the course of four Philadelphia community budget forums that wrapped up last night - hundreds of residents gave their input on how the city should address its budget gap. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports some came to West Philadelphia last night determined to lobby for a cause while others offered sacrifices they'd be willing to make.
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Member of Pennsylvania National Guard dies in Iraq
February 24, 2009
A member of the Pennsylvania National Guard has died in Iraq. 32-year-old Staff Sergeant Mark Baum from Quakertown was killed Saturday north of Bagdad. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Philly gets EPA funds for water-watching
February 23, 2009
The City of Philadelphia has gotten a federal grant to install high tech sensors to monitor water quality. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the story.
Caption: Federal and city officials hold the symbolic check for $2 million in EPA funding for the city's water-quality monitoring system.
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Newspapers in city and suburbs seek bankruptcy protection
February 23, 2009
The owner of Philadelphia's two biggest newspapers has filed for bankruptcy protection. Philadelphia Newspapers Incorporated is seeking bankruptcy protection in an effort to restructure its $390 million debt. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports for now it's business as usual at the Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News.
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Final forum for citizen input on budget
February 23, 2009
Tonight is the last of four forums where Philadelphians can say what they'd cut and which taxes they would raise to address the city's 1-billion-dollar budget shortfall. Citizen input from the forums will be provided to the city before Mayor Nutter makes budget decisions. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports participants are making some of their priorities clear.
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Police Department considers cost-savers
February 23, 2009
The Philadelphia Police Department is considering cost-saving alternatives to getting officers where they're needed throughout the city. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Closing arguments in Fumo trial
February 23, 2009
Following four months of testimony, jurors will hear prosecutors closing arguments today in the federal corruption trial of former Pennsylvania State Senator Vince Fumo. The Democratic power-broker faces 139 counts of fraud and obstruction of justice. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Study: Region's families increasingly underfed
February 22, 2009
Community Health Database surveyed 10,000 households in the Philadelphia area's five counties. Before the current economic crisis adults and families in the region had already been cutting back on food consumption. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Library advocates cry foul over security guard requirements
February 21, 2009
The last round of budget cuts could have closed 11 library branches, but a judge required the city to keep them open. Mayor Nutter has said everything is on the table in the next round of cuts. Now there is some concern that the city may be trying to find other ways to close libraries. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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City wins massive federal anti-homelessness funding
February 21, 2009
Federal housing officials say Philadelphia will receive $28 million in new funds for homelessness prevention programs. It's part of the federal stimulus package signed into law this week. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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"Firesetter" treatment for a Coatesville arson suspect
February 21, 2009
One of three men arrested in connection with a string of arsons in Coatesville has been sent to a juvenile treatment center that specializes in what are known as firesetters. Experts say there's a good chance that the seventeen-year-old suspect's deadly fascination can be controlled. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Garbage pickup may get price tag
February 20, 2009
Philadelphia city officials are thinking about different ways they can charge residents for trash collection. Different models exist in cities across the country. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Advocates want more Philly housing
February 20, 2009
Two new reports are urging Philadelphia officials to preserve the city's current housing stock and link new affordable housing projects to community revitalization. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Police Department honors slain officer
February 20, 2009
Members of the Philadelphia Police Department are gathered at the Cathedral-Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul for the funeral of an officer slain in the line of duty. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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City seeks savings in energy, money
February 20, 2009
It's time to turn off the lights and turn down the thermostat in city buildings. Philadelphia officials working to close the city's budget gap are looking at ways to reduce energy costs. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Citizen input sought at third budget forum
February 19, 2009
The third of four community forums on the Philadelphia budget crisis takes place tonight in South Philadelphia. Participants will be asked to weigh budget decisions and try to balance the budget by making cuts and increasing revenue. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Port panel hires Governor's former firm
February 19, 2009
The Delaware River Port Authority has approved a plan to give a contract to Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell's former lawfirm. According to a business ethics expert, the move falls into a gray area. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Police Commissioner: Cutting budget means cutting cops
February 19, 2009
Philadelphia public safety officials are saying proposed city budget cuts would cripple their departments. Mayor Nutter recently asked every department head to say how they might implement budget cuts of 10, 20 and 30 percent. WHYY's Tom MacDonald was at a budget review hearing this afternoon, and reports that Mayor Nutter didn't even want to hear the worst-case scenario.
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Senator Specter one of three Republicans to vote for stimulus package
February 19, 2009
Pennsylvania's Arlen Specter was one of only three Republican Senators to vote for the Obama administration's economic stimulus plan. Specter says the "very tough" but "necessary" vote" puts him in a "perilous" political position. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Republicans Weary of Rendell's Tuition Break Plan
February 19, 2009
Republicans are wary of Pennsylvania Governor Rendell's plan to provide tuition breaks at state schools through revenue generated by legalizing video machines.Now a top GOP Senator is introducing a measure he says would accomplish the same goal, but keep poker machines illegal. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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New Jersey State Employees may be Recieving Extra Health Benefits
February 19, 2009
New Jersey officials say some state employees may be receiving more health benefits than they're entitled to. But that may not last much longer, as WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Citizens weighed in on budget at forum
February 19, 2009
Residents attended the second of four city budget forums, where they got the chance to weigh in on the priorities for next year's budget. Citizens broke into small groups to weigh the options as WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Fumo finishes testimony
February 18, 2009
Former state Senator Vince Fumo is expected to wrap up his testimony today in his federal corruption trial. The case could take a dramatic turn if Fumo's former friend and attorney Richard Sprague takes the stand. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Lawmakers say taxpayers may make up budget shortfall from failed stocks
February 18, 2009
Pennsylvania's two primary public pension programs lost more than 28 billion dollars last year, mostly due to the fallling stock market. During yesterday's budget hearing in Harrisburg, officials told members of the House Appropriations Committee that taxpayers may have to make up the shortfall. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Second Philadelphia budget forum in Germantown
February 18, 2009
The 2nd of four public forums on the Philadelphia city budget takes place tonight at the Mastery Charter School in Germantown. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Financial experts predict a grim year for PA economy
February 18, 2009
With financial experts predicting a bleak outlook for Pennsylvania's economy for the rest of this year, WHYY's Scott Detrow was in Harrisburg yesterday as a grim round of budget hearings got underway.
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Port Authority to decide on new projects
February 17, 2009
Special projects in Philadelphia and Camden could receive funding from the Delaware River Port Authority. The DRPA Board is expected to vote tomorrow on whether to spend $11 million dollars for non-transportation projects including the President's House memorial on Independence Mall and a medical school in Camden. Some lawmakers and citizens oppose the spending, in light of DRPA's recent decision to increase tolls. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Fumo's testimony parses meanings of 'ethical' and 'legal'
February 17, 2009
Former state Senator Vince Fumo is back on the witness stand today, defending himself under cross-examination. Fumo has admitted to a multitude of charges while on the witness stand. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Philadelphia mayor longs for stimulus
February 17, 2009
The city of Philadelphia is still not sure how much money it will get from the federal stimulus plan. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports Mayor Nutter has put forward his wish list.
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Forums giving city officials an earful
February 17, 2009
Philadelphians with an opinion about how the city should address its 1-billion-dollar budget gap, can give their two cents at a series of forums that continue this week. About five hundred people took part in the first forum Thursday night, and wrestled with the tough choices facing the city. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Tough financial times slow underground economy
February 17, 2009
The recession is hitting Philadelphia area residents of all ages and professions. The tough financial situation is also putting a crimp in the "underground economy," those who don't pay taxes or get permits, but who sell all manner of things like t-shirts, CDs, DVDs, and even illegal taxi rides. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler has more.
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Meningitis scares Penn students into clinics
February 16, 2009
Three University of Pennsylvania students remain hospitalized with meningitis and two others are hospitalized with flu-like symptoms. Campus officials have urged anyone who attended a fraternity or sorority event since February Second to seek medical treatment. That has thousands of students lining up at Penn's clinics, nervous that they might have been exposed to the potentially fatal disease. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more.
Caption: Penn sophomore Rose Scheckler didn't think she was exposed to meningitis, but decided to take antibiotics given out at a Penn student health clinic as a precaution.
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Critic: Mayor reinventing tax-reform wheel
February 16, 2009
Philadelphia has the second-highest tax burden of any major city in the United States, after New York, and business leaders say high taxes are scaring away entrepreneurs and industry giants alike. Mayor Nutter has asked a task force to review the city's tax structure, but WHYY's Tom MacDonald spoke with a leading tax critic who says the task force is about to repeat work that was already done not that long ago.
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City can't yet bank on casino cash
February 16, 2009
The city of Philadelphia is looking for every penny to pay for services, but one major potential source of revenue remains untapped. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports opposition to gambling has kept the city from getting its share of revenues from casinos that haven't been built.
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Probe targets cop corruption charge
February 14, 2009
The FBI is assisting Philadelphia in an investigation into possible police corruption regarding a narcotics officer. The officer is suspected of using a confidential informant to target suspected drug dealers by using false evidence. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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From Port of Philadelphia, with love
February 14, 2009
On this Valentine's Day chocolate lovers might wonder where their favorite treat comes from. The bulk of the nation's imported cocoa beans arrive in this country through the ports of Philadelphia. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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A green pilot project at McGuire AFB
February 14, 2009
A federal grant is going to McGuire Air Force Base to create alternative and renewable fuels. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the goal is to use bio waste to create electricity and gas.
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Trial continues over chemical giant merger
February 14, 2009
Philadelphia-based Rohm and Haas has sued Dow Chemical to force the Michigan company to complete a merger. A Delaware judge has ruled that the trial can begin next month. With the proposed 15 billion dollar buyout up in the air, WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports on the deal's possible implications for the 3,000 Rohm and Haas employees in the Delaware Valley.
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Local banks better poised to weather recession
February 14, 2009
Broad concerns remain regarding the health of the nation's banks, as the U.S. banking system faces the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. The nation's banks are weighed down by bad debt. But smaller community banks largely avoided the risky loans and complex securities that sank some of the nation's best-known financial firms. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Governor Rendell promotes video poker plan
February 13, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell is promoting his plan to permit video poker this week. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports the proposal has the backing of a key legislative leader in Harrisburg.
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New Jersey Supreme Court reviews Governor's executive privilege in the case of e-mail privacy
February 13, 2009
The New Jersey Supreme Court may decide whether Governor Corzine can invoke executive privilege to keep his emails private. The communications in question were sent to union leader Carla Katz. Corzine dated her before he took office. Corzine says the e-mails didn't touch on state contract negotiations with the union Katz represents, but Katz has contradicted that claim in her own attempt to keep the e-mails secret. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Nutter hears info from Recreation, Health on budget cut impact
February 13, 2009
City officials are reviewing a wide array of options in their effort to close the budget gap while keeping service cuts to a minimum. Mayor Nutter met with department heads yesterday in a brainstorming session focusing on Health and Opportunity. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports you could be paying for previously free city services in the near future.
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Crisis temporarily averted, stimulus restores money to states
February 13, 2009
The final version of the federal stimulus restores much of the funding the Senate had cut out, according to Governor Rendell. Scott Detrow reports from Harrisburg.
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Pension board has savings plan
February 13, 2009
Philadelphia's Pension Board has voted to do some creative financing in order to help the city balance its budget. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Community members build mock budgets
February 13, 2009
The first of four Philadelphia community budget forums attracted around 500 participants last night. They broke into small groups to reach consensus on how to plug a $1 billion dollar budget gap. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
Captions: Participants at the budget workshop had the option of sharing their thoughts and comments which will be included in the final report to the mayor (top). Glenn Moyer (left) and Nancy Stollsteimer (right).
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Restaurants hope Cupid fills their seats
February 13, 2009
Valentines Day is tomorrow and it's one of the biggest days of the year for restaurants. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more.
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Penn students stricken by meningitis
February 13, 2009
Two University of Pennsylvania students are being treated for bacterial meningitis, and dozens more have received pre-emptive treatment. School officials say the two cases are likely related. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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PSE&G asks to charge for $700 Million
February 13, 2009
PSE&G has asked New Jersey power regulators for the right to charge customers for installing 700 million dollars worth of solar panels on poles and rooftops across the state. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Vice President Biden and Governor Rendell rally support for stimulus plan
February 12, 2009
With Congress preparing for voting on the federal stimulus package, Vice President Joe Biden joined with Pennsylvania Governor Rendell in the state capitol yesterday to rally support for the plan. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Prosecutors continue cross-examination of former State Senator Vincent Fumo
February 12, 2009
Prosecutors continue their cross-examination of former Pennsylvania state senator Vincent Fumo today. Fumo's appearance on the stand is bringing the four-month trial to a dramatic finish, as WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Philadelphia officials review prison system for potential cuts
February 12, 2009
With Philadelphia officials trying to close another billion-dollar budget gap, the city's prison system is coming under scrutiny. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Couples marry in City Hall Valentine's Day ceremony
February 12, 2009
Forty-two couples were married today at lunchtime ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall. Usually, this mass wedding is held on Valentine's Day, but City Hall is closed on Saturday, and well, not many couples want to get hitched on Friday the 13th. WHYY's Denis Devine was there.
Captions: Mr. and the new Mrs. Feather (left). Officer and the new Mrs. Lawyer (right).
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Winds whip region
February 12, 2009
High winds are caused problems throughout the Philadelphia region. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports issues range from transit to power lines.
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Northwest Philly loses two neighborhood newspapers
February 11, 2009
Two neighborhood papers in Philadelphia have printed their final issues and will be shutting their doors. The Mt. Airy Times-Express and the Germantown Courier have announced they will end their operations effective. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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City drops appeal of judge's library decision
February 11, 2009
The city of Philadelphia has given up it's appeal of a judge's decision that keeps libraries ordered closed by the Nutter Administration open. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the mayor says it was an issue of time and money.
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Home scam in Philadelphia DA's sights
February 11, 2009
Philadelphia's District Attorney says stealing homes has become a major problem in the city. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports criminal charges have been filed against 15 in a home stealing scheme.
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Measuring impact of potential budget balancing scenarios
February 11, 2009
The city could see major police and fire layoffs if those departments are forced to take a budget cut. That's according to scenarios released by department heads earlier this week. As the city works toward closing a $1 billion budget gap, the heads of other city departments also unveiled their potential 10, 20 and 30 percent cuts. Those include some changes that wouldn't directly impact public safety, but could change daily life in the city. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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New Jersey residents want cut to state payroll
February 11, 2009
Governor Jon Corzine has a lot riding on his proposal to let New Jersey's towns skip their payments into the state pension system. But a new poll says more New Jersey residents think the governor should concentrate on cutting the state's payroll. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has more.
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Fumo defends secret deal with Peco Energy
February 11, 2009
Former Pennsylvania State Senator Vince Fumo is defending a secret deal he brokered with Peco Energy to donate $17 million dollars to a non-profit organization he controlled. Fumo is on the stand this week, as the final witness in his four-month-long federal corruption trial. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Pennsylvania expands pre-election day voting eligibility
February 11, 2009
Following record turnout in November, Pennsylvania is among several states considering expanding pre-election day voting eligibility WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Lawmakers urge Congress for final stimulus package
February 11, 2009
Now that the Senate has passed a stimulus package, Pennsylvania politicians are urging Congress to put together the final bill as quickly as possible. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Mayor proposes committee to review tax structure
February 10, 2009
With the city facing a projected $1 billion budget shortfall, the region's business community welcomed Mayor Michael Nutter to the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce annual Mayoral luncheon on Tuesday. At a budget briefing on Monday night city officials laid out potential cuts and potential tax increases, both of which could have big impacts on the business community. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Anti-hunger activists hope for stimulus help
February 10, 2009
The Federal economic stimulus package contains increased funding for food stamps. The Senate version of the bill would boost funding by 12%. WHYY's Tom MacDonald spoke to people on the front lines in the fight against hunger.
Caption: Angela Sutton, a single mother of two, talks about her constant struggle to put good food on the table.
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Mayor unveils new budget cuts
February 10, 2009
Philadelphia Mayor Nutter gathered budget officials and City Council members at the Municipal Services Building in Center City last night as city department heads unveiled their 10, 20 and 30 percent budget cuts in the face of a billion dollar deficit. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Union and civic groups not pleased with forum format
February 10, 2009
Some union and civic groups are not pleased with the format for a series of forums on the Philadelphia budget deficit. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says they are calling for a new perspective to the exercise on civil engagement.
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Education will recieve spending increase in Rendell's budget
February 10, 2009
Education is one of the few areas that will receive a spending increase in Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell's budget plan. But as WHYY's Scott Detrow explains he's still proposing 87 million dollars worth of program cuts in the department.
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Specter shows support for stimulus package
February 10, 2009
Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter is one of three Republican lawmakers who support the federal stimulus package, ensuring the measure will go to a vote in the upper chamber. The move is generating some anger from conservatives as WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Report: For-profit management working in schools
February 10, 2009
A new report gives high marks to schools managed by for-profit companies in Philadelphia, and much lower grades to schools run by non-profit agencies. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Union targets Temple University
February 9, 2009
The Philadelphia Council of the AFL-CIO has called on its unions to withhold donations to Temple University until the school strikes a deal with two major unions. More than 2000 faculty and staff are members of the local American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees and Temple Association of University Professionals. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Towards goal of city population growth, Mayor welcomes immigrants
February 9, 2009
Mayor Nutter hopes to attract more immigrants to the city to help meet his goal to increase the city's shrinking population by 75,000 in the next five years. Last Friday, as part of his outreach efforts, Mayor Nutter hosted a swearing-in naturalization ceremony for a dozen new citizens at City Hall. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Rendell takes the stand at Fumo trial
February 9, 2009
Star witness Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell takes the stand at former State Senator Vince Fumo's federal corruption trial today. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Many jobs expected to be lost
February 9, 2009
Official Pennsylvania job numbers for January will be released later this month, but the national figures show there could be 30-thousand newly unemployed in the state. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports it might take a long time for new jobs to come.
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100 state programs to be cut in new budget
February 9, 2009
100 state programs are on the chopping block in the budget address delivered by Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell last week. But some of those programs might survive months of legislative debate and hearings before the final budget is passed. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Firefighters protest mayor's budget cuts
February 6, 2009
Philadelphia's firefighters are angry about the city's budget cuts, and today more than 100 took to the streets. They announced they have "no confidence" in Mayor Nutter and the fire commissioner, and criticized both officials for putting citizens safety at risk. One month ago the Mayor shut down 5 engine and two ladder companies in an effort to save $10 million. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Rendell gives counties option of boosting sales tax
February 6, 2009
Governor Rendell says there are no 'so-called' broad-based tax increases in his 2009-2010 budget. But he does want to give Pennsylvania counties the option to boost sales taxes by one percent. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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Mayor says firefighters' ads are out of line
February 6, 2009
Firefighters in Philadelphia have voted no confidence in their Commissioner and are running ads saying the city's recent budget cuts are putting residents in danger. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports Mayor Nutter is urging them to stop.
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Pew poll gives mayor high marks
February 6, 2009
A new poll gives Mayor Nutter a good approval rating. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the people who responded to the poll are split on the direction the city should go to close the budget gap.
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DTV transition pushed back
February 5, 2009
Television broadcasters are being given the option to delay the switch to digital television for another four months. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports Philadelphia TV stations are poised to keep their analog signals on during the extension.
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SRC meeting focuses on charter schools
February 5, 2009
Some education officials say there needs to be greater oversight of Philadelphia's 63 charter schools, in light of questions about financial decisions and academic performance. Tonight the School Reform Commission's Charter School Taskforce is hosting a meeting for the public to weigh in on the District's accountability measures for charter schools. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Thousands of Pennsylvanians without heat
February 5, 2009
Thousands of Pennsylvanians don't have access to their heating system because service has been cut off. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports almost half of those without central heat statewide live in Philadelphia.
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Council approves Verizon FiOS deal
February 5, 2009
Philadelphia residents will soon have another choice when it comes to pay-TV service in the city. City Council approved a contract with Verizon to deliver TV and internet service to city residents. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Rendell proposes tuition relief from video poker machines
February 5, 2009
In Governor Rendell's budget address he said he wants to fund tuition relief by legalizing and taxing video poker machines. The Governor says he wants to draw some financial benefit from the machines that are already illegally operating in bars and other businesses across the state. The plans have some gaming experts and activists crying foul. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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National stimulus program to bring 150 thousand jobs to Pennsylvania
February 5, 2009
The proposed Obama Administration stimulus program is expected to bring 150 thousand jobs to the state of Pennsylvania. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more.
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Recruitment up due to poor economy
February 5, 2009
The U.S. Army says recruitment is up dramatically in the Delaware Valley, mostly because of the poor economy. But fewer men and women have been enlisting in Philadelphia, which has historically been a tough market for the Army. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Million dollar revenue shortfall in Philadelphia
February 5, 2009
Philadelphia's revenues are a billion dollars short of expenses, for the second time in just the last few months, and Mayor Nutter is expected to announce cuts to city departments any day now. A panel the mayor appointed in September to push the city toward sustainability is saying the city can save money and the environment at the same time. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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Education advocates give mixed reviews on Rendell's budget increase
February 5, 2009
Education advocates give Governor Rendell high marks for a budget that increases public school funding even as it reduces spending overall. But some say he's making a mistake by trying to change the way local school boards handle their business. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Medical community impatient for stem cell decision
February 4, 2009
The Obama Administration still hasn't fufilled a campaign promise to remove limits on embryonic stem cell research, causing concern in the medical community. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Snow plows shelved by city budget cuts
February 4, 2009
Across the Delaware Valley residents and business owners are digging themselves out from last night's snow storm. In November Mayor Nutter announced budget cuts including scaling back city snow plowing. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Snow brings riders onto mass transit
February 4, 2009
When the snow falls, extra riders flock to mass transit. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports there is some extra capacity, but no extra buses or trains to accomodate the new riders.
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Pennsylvania residents need help with heat
February 4, 2009
More Pennsylvania residents need help to pay their heating bills this winter. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Verizon deal could be stalled over the issue of public access
February 4, 2009
The effort to break Comcast's hold over pay-TV in Philadelphia could hit a snag over funding for public access television. As WHYY's Susan Phillips reports - City Council is expected to vote this week on the city's deal with Verizon to bring FiOS service to Philadelphia.
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Rendell wants video poker funds to go towards education
February 4, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell hopes to help students afford college by legalizing video poker machines. He's expected to ask the legislature for their support in his annual budget address today. Students from families earning up to $100,000 a year would be eligible for tuition relief at any of Pennsylvania's 14 community colleges or 14 public universities. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Governor wants to give, take from schools
February 4, 2009
Governor Ed Rendell's proposed 2009 budget includes millions in new education funding. But he also asks for big changes in the way local school districts are organized. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Public-private funds help home-owners
February 4, 2009
A public-private partnership is working to keep some cash-strapped Philadelphians in their homes. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Governor's schools could feel Governor's cuts
February 3, 2009
Artistically and academically talented high school students in Pennsylvania may soon be looking for new ways to spend their summer vacation. Reports have indicated that when Governor Rendell announces his budget plans tomorrow, the five-week-long summer residential programs in the state's Governor's Schools of Excellence may be slashed. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Lawmakers hard at work to increase health coverage despite deficit
February 3, 2009
Pennsylvania lawmakers aren't letting a billion-dollar budget deficit stop them from working to increase health care coverage for Commonwealth residents. State Senate Republicans say it's worth another try to reintroduce measures that stalled in the last session. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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NJ lawmakers say they want more time in office
February 3, 2009
Some New Jersey lawmakers say they'd like to serve longer terms in office. And that interest has sparked a contentious debate about term limits in an election year. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Recession boom for PA exports
February 3, 2009
Pennsylvania is exporting more of its major products: coal, steel, aircrafts and other machinery. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the down economy could be one reason for the boost.
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Mayor Nutter reviews proposals looking for staff cuts
February 3, 2009
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is reviewing proposals from his department heads to make cuts ranging from 10-30 percent. The city's fiscal crisis focuses new attention on non-departmental city employees. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports on the Mayor's non-union exempt staff.
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Governor Rendell asks for 200 million dollars
February 2, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell is asking the General Assembly to relinquish its 200 million dollar surplus to help close the state's 2.3 billion dollar budget gap. But Republican leaders say Rendell is holding onto his own excess fund. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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New era for Delaware River development
February 2, 2009
Philadelphia planning and design advocates are cheering the advent of a new era regarding the development of the Delaware river waterfront. The Penn's Landing Corporation is out, and a new board committed to transparency is in. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports on challenges.
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Wilmington lawmakers may reject Verizon plan
February 2, 2009
While Philadelphia officials are discussing a deal to bring a Verizon fiber-optic cable network to the city. Lawmakers in Wilmington seem poised to reject a similar plan. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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City getting shortchanged as entitled residents unaware of benefits
January 30, 2009
City officials say tens of thousands of older Philadelphians aren't getting the public benefits they're entitled to. But the city won't be repeating the intensive outreach program that helped thousands more get signed up. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Threatened layoffs cause labor backlash for Rendell
January 30, 2009
Pennsylvania labor leaders are saying Governor Rendell crossed a line with his recent warnings that the state might have to lay off large numbers of employees. WHYY's Scott Detrow has the story in Harrisburg.
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Mayor Nutter shakes up waterfront board
January 30, 2009
New plans are underway for Philadelphia's Delaware River waterfront. Mayor Nutter disbanded the old Penn's Landing Corporation today and replaced it with a new board. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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PA seeing surge in uninsured
January 30, 2009
The number of Pennsylvania residents without health insurance is more than one million, according to a new Insurance Department study. And with layoffs rapidly cutting into the public and private sectors, that number is expected to rise as employees lose employer-provided coverage. In Harrisburg, WHYY's Scott Detrow has more.
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Changes coming to Penn's Landing board
January 30, 2009
Mayor Nutter will make a major announcement regarding the redevelopment of the Delaware River Waterfront, at a meeting of the Penn's Landing Corporation today. The details haven't been announced, but the Mayor's moves may be influenced by a plan for the riverfront he's publicly embraced. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Layoff bug sure to bite New Jersey towns and cities
January 30, 2009
With local and state revenues falling, New Jersey towns must try to balance their budgets with a limited set of tools at their disposal. A spokesman for New Jersey's town officials says many will have no choice but to layoff workers. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Trash, health centers "on the table" as city discusses budget scenarios
January 29, 2009
Mayor Nutter says he will respect a court order to keep open eleven libraries, but says the city's budget-cutting mission has only just begun. Mayor Nutter today asked Philadelphians to keep their fingers off the panic button while the city explores ideas. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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New Jersey bill would allow private contractors to clean toxic waste
January 29, 2009
New Jersey is home to an estimated 20,000 contaminated toxic waste sites. No one is pleased with the slow pace in addressing the problem and the state's business community is backing a bill allowing private contractors clean up the toxic sites with less oversight from New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection. But not everyone thinks that's a good idea. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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State Republicans react to stimulus bill
January 29, 2009
Pending Senate approval Pennsylvania and New Jersey may come into millions of dollars for schools, as well as roads, bridges and mass transit. As President Obama's economic stimulus plan passed in the House last night along party lines. Republican lawmakers spurned Obama, saying the bill contains too much spending and not enough tax cuts. Democrats say the potential for job growth is key in an economy at its worst since the Great Depression. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Stimulus bill will help Pennsylvania education
January 29, 2009
Education advocates say Washington's role in funding schools could be redefined. Pennsylvania state officials say that at the very least, the stimulus bill passed in the House last night will allow them to maintain last years' spending levels and avoid painful budget cuts. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Philly cops not collecting
January 29, 2009
Philadelphia's City Controller says the city should be actively collecting fees for police services rendered to private entities and other government agencies. The city sends police to private establishments like night clubs in exchange for payment. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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New Jersey lawmakers try to extend voting machine requirement deadline
January 28, 2009
New Jersey lawmakers are still trying to extend a deadline on the state's voting machine requirements. But they're running out of time - as elections and a court case stand in their way. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the details.
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Rendell says prison costs rising, won't be cut
January 28, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell has told unions to expect rolling furloughs for state workers. Rendell previously announced he would cut between 1,000 and 2,000 jobs from the state workforce as a way to plug a multi-billion dollar budget gap. But one budget item that won't be reduced is money for prisons. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Governor Rendell says to expect zero growth
January 28, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell told a meeting of the region's business leaders to expect zero growth in the upcoming year. Rendell will be delivering his budget address next week and is expected to annouce layoffs and significant budget cuts. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Wyeth employees await merger
January 28, 2009
Wyeth employees across the Philadelphia area are waiting to see what their employer's merger with pharmacutical giant Pfizer means for their jobs. About 5,000 people work at Wyeth facilities in Collegeville and Malvern. A Wyeth spokesperson says the Madison, New Jersey-based firm doesn't yet know whether jobs will be cut or facilities closed. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Health insurance failing to reach children
January 28, 2009
Children's health advocates are hoping that the Obama administration can make good on a promise to expand the federal Children's Health Insurance Program known as CHIP. But here in greater Philadelphia they say the biggest obstacle to expansion is signing people up. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Help wanted! City looking for park and rec commissioners
January 28, 2009
The city of Philadelphia wants applicants to the new Commission on Parks and Recreation. The move is an important step toward merging the Fairmount Park Commission with the city's Recreation Department. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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New Jersey closes prison
January 28, 2009
News that New Jersey is closing a prison just north of the Ben Franklin Bridge has Camden leaders excited about redeveloping a prime piece of the city's waterfront. The North Camden neighborhood resisted the prison's construction in the early 1980s, and has been eagerly anticipating its end ever since. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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Youth program expands
January 28, 2009
A youth intervention program in Philadelphia is expanding its outreach. The Safe Place program encourages troubled teens to seek help for themselves. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Anti-casino activists rally for an ally
January 27, 2009
Today, members of Casino-Free Philadelphia declared the city's independence from casinos. The activists have been protesting the Sugarhouse site along the Delaware River in Fishtown, and the potential Foxwoods sites in South Philadelphia and at the Gallery in Center City. Organizers say they hope at least one elected city official will publicly support their position that casinos would be bad for Philadelphia. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Coatesville in state of emergency
January 27, 2009
A state of emergency is in effect in Coatesville, where authorities say 29 fires have been deliberately set over the past 8 weeks. The city's police force is working with county, state and federal agencies to apprehend those responsible for committing the arson that has caused more than $3 million dollars in damage. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Rendell keeps own counsel on budget
January 27, 2009
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell is expected to give his budget address next week. With a projected deficit of more than $2 billion dollars, the governor faces tough choices. But don't expect him to ask the public to weigh in. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
Credit: AP Photo
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Chemical merger in hands of Delaware judge
January 27, 2009
The future of a merger between Dow Chemical and Rohm and Haas is in the hands of a Delaware judge today. The $15.4 billion dollar buyout hit a snag this week when Dow Chemical announced it would not meet today's federal trade commission deadline to close on the deal. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Peace activist passes away
January 26, 2009
Philadelphia area Quaker activist Lillian Willoughby has died. Willoughby spent 65 years protesting war, racism and nuclear weapons. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Fumo defense starting
January 26, 2009
Prosecutors are expected to wrap up their corruption case against former state Senator Vincent Fumo today after three months of testimony. Fumo's defense is likely to bring prominent witnesses to the stand. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Gitmo attorneys pleased by Obama's order
January 26, 2009
President Obama's executive order to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center is good news to some Philadelphia-based attorneys who represent some of the detainees. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Working to minimize wind turbine dangers
January 26, 2009
With the Obama administration pushing for more alternative energy, many are predicting that wind turbine construction will increase over the next few years. As WHYY's Scott Detrow reports, the Pennsylvania State Game Commission is working with energy companies to minimize risk for non-humans.
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PA comes down hard on smoking ban violators
January 26, 2009
Within Philadelphia's boundaries, city law dictates where smokers can light up. Outside the city - in restaurants, bars, and other businesses across the state, the state's smoking ban sets the rules. Since the law went into effect in September, officials say they've sent out more than 300 warning letters about following the law. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Making NJ's energy sources more efficient could be costly
January 26, 2009
PSE&G says it will cost more than 800 million dollars to make New Jersey's energy sources more efficient. And the company says the long term gain must come at the short term cost of higher utility rates for customers. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Port Authority back to funding economic development
January 23, 2009
The Delaware River Port Authority is planning to fund more special projects, after a DRPA committee voted yesterday to use $11 million for non-transportation projects in Philadelphia and Camden. They include funding for the President's House memorial on Independence Mall, a restaurant in Center City Philadelphia, and a medical school in Camden. However, when it announced it would raise tolls last summer, the board said the dollars would keep up bridges and PATCO, not fund economic development projects. The story from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
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Councilman: Get satellite dishes off roofs
January 23, 2009
A city councilman says satellite dishes are ugly and he's introduced a bill to get them off the fronts of houses. But Federal regulations could trump his aesthetic views. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Brady bans "Made in China" souvenirs from Capitol gift shop
January 23, 2009
A U.S. Congressman from Philadelphia says he has instituted a ban on foreign made items in the U.S. Capital Gift Shop. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that thousands of dollars of items are in storage because of the ban.
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Governer Rendell says layoffs of state employees a possilibility
January 23, 2009
With a projected budget deficit of more than two billion dollars, Pennsylvania Governor Rendell says layoffs of state employees are now on the table. WHYY's Scott Detrow reports.
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New Jersey Department of Education struggles with budget cuts
January 23, 2009
New Jersey's Department of Education is struggling with budget cuts. And Commissioner Lucille Davy doesn't know if it's going to get any better next year. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Dates, locations for Philly citizen budget input announced
January 22, 2009
You can give your two cents about how the city should address its budget problems at four upcoming forums, whose details were just announced. A week ago, Mayor Michael Nutter announced the city faces a second budget deficit of $1 billion and that painful choices will have to made. City officials will be listening to public input, but this time before they decide how to close the budget gap. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Poor economy encourages giveaways
January 22, 2009
As the economy slides, everyone is looking for bargains and "free" definitely qualifies as a bargain. More and more people are giving away things on websites such as craigslist and freecycle.com, and the free stuff you can grab off such sites isn't just old baby clothes and scrap building materials. As WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports, you can find things you might actually want.
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Philadelphia School District in control of Mayor Nutter and Governor Rendell
January 22, 2009
With the departure of School Reform Commissioner Jim Ghallager, the board that oversees the Philadelphia School District is now entirely in the control of Mayor Michael Nutter and Governor Ed Rendell. Ghallager was the last board member to be appointed by a Republican, as WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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City Council must do more with less
January 22, 2009
Philadelphia City Council embarks on a new session today, and a key question for Council members will be "how to do more with less?" The city faces a $2 billion dollar budget gap over the next five years. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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PA high schools, colleges falling short in student prep
January 23, 2009
A flurry of new studies suggest that Pennsylvania's high schools aren't providing colleges with enough qualified graduates, while the state's colleges aren't providing the economy with enough qualified workers. State officials say the answer is to make college more affordable, and high schools more accountable. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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High schools in PA leaving students unprepared for college
January 22, 2009
New data from the state department of education show that as many as one in three Pennsylvania high school graduates arrive at college without all the skills they need. The Rendell administration is using the numbers to revive its push for a system of statewide high school graduation exams. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Police officers shot two on Tuesday
January 22, 2009
Philadelphia police officers shot two people Tuesday night, bringing the total of civilians shot by officers up to five in the first weeks of 2009. Police investigations are trying to determine whether there's a pattern to be found in this year's rash of officer-involved shootings. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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City Council may allow break-up of Comcast TV's near monopoly
January 22, 2009
Philadelphia City Council could take a step today that would allow Verizon to offer pay-TV service in the city and break Comcast's near monopoly. The contract with Verizon was fast-tracked by the Nutter administration, but Public Access Committee members are unhappy with the bill. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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More room for babies at Einstein
January 21, 2009
Einstein Medical Center in Olney is renovating and expanding its maternity ward. Delivering babies is one of the least profitable services hospitals provide, and in the past decade fifteen area hospitals have closed their maternity wards. Einstein is investing 10 million dollars into theirs. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Taking a closer look at Municipal Mergers
January 21, 2009
One New Year story that has been lost amid news about the economy, politics, and war is that Pennsylvania has one fewer municipality in 2009. Just south of Pittsburgh - tiny Alexander Borough in Washington County has merged with Donegal Township. WHYY's Dave Heller speaks with Mark Muro, Fellow and Policy director at the Brookings Institution about the benefits of municipal mergers in Pennsylvania.
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Temple University makes broad cuts
January 21, 2009
Temple University has announced a five percent across the board budget cut. And there may be more cuts to come as WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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A second Mayor Green?
January 21, 2009
City Council is preparing to gather for its first session of the year. In just his first few months, freshman City Councilman Bill Green has drawn plenty of attention for challenging veteran politicians and long-standing city political traditions. His aggressive style has some wondering about the political ambitions of the new at-large City Councilman. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
Caption: Councilman Bill Green celebrates his 2007 victory with his father, former Mayor William "Bill" Green, III. Photo courtesy of GreenForPhiladelphia.com
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For the transcript of this story and to comment on it, visit It's Our City
Listen to Liz Fiedler's interviews with Councilman Bill Green and Councilman Jim Kenney below.
Listen to the entire Councilman Bill Green interview:
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Listen to an abridged version of the Councilman Jim Kenney interview:
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Obama prompts high hopes; some try to lower them
January 21, 2009
There are big hopes for the administration of President Barack Obama and many people are anticipating a major change in the way the government functions. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports both political and civic leaders are trying to lower expectations for the nation's first black president.
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Hundreds Watch Inauguration at Independence Mall
January 21, 2009
Independence Mall drew a few hundred people to watch yesterday's Inaugural proceedings. Some watched the ceremony on TVs inside Independence Visitor's Center and the National Constitution Center, but most chose to brave the cold and watch on a Jumbotron screen. So did WHYY's Peter Crimmins.
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Philadelphia students hope new administration will bring change
January 21, 2009
Students and educators across the city are hoping that change in the White House will mean change in the Philadelphia School District. Not all the changes they hope to see can be measured in dollars and cents. As WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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An urban President could benefit Philadelphia
January 21, 2009
Barack Obama is not only the first African American president but the Chicago resident is also the country's first urban president in decades that could benefit the Philadelphia area. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Deleware State Students React to Inauguration
January 21, 2009
Students at Deleware State University gathered on campus to watch the Presidential Inauguration yesterday. WHYY's Stella Payne was there, as well.
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Large crowd at inauguration reminds some Philadelphians of civil rights movement
January 21, 2009
Yesterday's inauguration brought back memories for some Philadelphians of Martin Luther King's famous 1963 march on Washington. WHYY's Alex Schmidt reports.
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City hopes better economic times are ahead
January 20, 2009
Today's inauguration of Barack Obama has Philadelphians hoping for better economic times. The city faces a growing deficit, library closings, and possible tax increases. So, what can the new administration do for Philadelphia? WHYY's Susan Phillips has more.
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SEPTA shutdowns and security tightens for Saturday's inaugural train ride
January 16, 2009
Security tightens up Saturday morning and the SEPTA R2 Marcus Hook train won't be going to Wilmington. Just two of the expected hiccups for weekend commuters around 30th street station and downtown Wilmington where the inaugural train with President Elect Obama and Vice President Elect Biden aboard. WHYY's Tasha Jamerson reports from eyeshot of the Wilmington station where excitement is palpable.
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Philly airport also on the lookout for birds
January 16, 2009
The plane that crash-landed in the Hudson River yesterday took off from La Guardia airport, which shares something with Philadelphia International. Both are along the same migratory bird flight corridor. The flight is reported to have gone down because birds got caught in its engines. Philadelphia Airport makes efforts to avoid a similar accident here. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Camden's riverfront state prison set to close
January 16, 2009
Plans are in the works to shut down Camden's riverfront state prison. WHYY's Denis Devine reports the prime waterfront property next to the Ben Franklin bridge would be used by the city of Camden.
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Firefighters might try to recall Nutter
January 16, 2009
Philadelphia firefighters could take some drastic action in response to potential budget cuts. Mayor Nutter announced Thursday that the city faces another $1 billion dollar deficit over the next five years, and wouldn't rule out additional layoffs or tax increases. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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State universities set fundraising mark
January 15, 2009
Pennsylvania's state-owned universities raised a record $52 million in private donations during the last fiscal year. And that money is being funneled toward different efforts. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Mayor announces another billion dollar shortfall over next 5 years
January 15, 2009
The city's budget problems have grown because of falling city revenues and rising costs. Mayor Michael Nutter announced two months ago that the city faced a $1 billion shortfall over the next 5 years. Today the Mayor said the budget gap is expected to be at least twice as large. He said the city will look for ways to cut costs and increase revenue. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Trump tries again to stop Foxwoods in Philly
January 15, 2009
The group behind putting a Trump Casino in Philadelphia has petitioned the State Gaming Control Board to revoke the license granted to Foxwoods Casino and give it to Trump. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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District apologizes for editing meeting video
January 15, 2009
The Lower Merion School District has apologized for editing a video recording of a heated School Board meeting. The Board had posted a video online with 5 minutes of footage removed, when a community member disrupted discussion of a redistricting plan that has divided the community. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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New Jersey close to accepting island park
January 15, 2009
New Jersey officials are on the verge of accepting an offer to take over an island in the Delaware River and turn it into a park. The fate of Petty's Island, which lies near the Betsy Ross Bridge between Port Richmond and Camden, once pitted South Jersey Democrats against environmentalists and an oil company. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Obama train will disrupt SEPTA service
January 15, 2009
SEPTA says some service on the regional rail lines will be affected by the inauguration train on Saturday morning. President-Elect Barack Obama will be coming through Philadelphia on an Amtrak train and heading south to Washington D.C. for the inauguration. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Delaware hotels are filling up fast for inaugration
January 15, 2009
Philadelphia-area hotels may not be booking up because of spillover from the inauguration celebration in Washington, but it appears Delaware hotels are seeing vacancies dwindle. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports.
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Deleware State University marching band will perform in inaugural parade
January 15, 2009
One group that will have one of the best vantage points at the inauguration next Tuesday will be the Delaware State University marching band - better known as the "approaching storm." WHYY's Bill Cook explains.
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All aboard the train ride to "change"
January 14, 2009
Plans for the Obama/Biden whistle stop train ride from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to Washington Saturday... are being finalized. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports some Delaware residents are staking out their spots to see history happen.
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Children legal cases get fast tracked in PA
January 14, 2009
A new Pennsylvania Supreme Court Ruling is designed to help some of the most serious legal cases involving children. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports a children's advocate says it could shave years off of the adoption process among other things.
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Protestors flock to City Hall in defense of city libraries
January 14, 2009
About 60 noisy protestors gathered at Philadelphia City Hall last night. They say Mayor Michael Nutter is in contempt of the people's court for refusing to keep all the city's libraries open. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the group put on some street theater to get their point across.
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Lawmakers back on duty in Dover try to deal with the budget crisis
January 14, 2009
Delaware lawmakers are back in Dover for the start of the new legislative session, bearing the weight of a huge budget shortfall. Governor-Elect Jack Markell says lawmakers have never seen anything like this budget crisis. WHYY's Bill Cook has more.
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All aboard the train ride to "change"
January 14, 2009
Plans for the Obama/Biden whistle stop train ride from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to Washington Saturday... are being finalized. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports some Delaware residents are staking out their spots to see history happen.
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Lawmakers back on duty in Dover try to deal with the budget crisis
January 14, 2009
Delaware lawmakers are back in Dover for the start of the new legislative session, bearing the weight of a huge budget shortfall. Governor-Elect Jack Markell says lawmakers have never seen anything like this budget crisis. WHYY's Bill Cook has more.
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SEPTA Cops volunteer for Inauguration duty
January 13, 2009
SEPTA is sending a contingent of officers to Washington DC to help patrol the District of Columbia's Mass Transit System. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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We're looking for more local angles to the Inauguration. Submit your own stories or photos of how Philadelphia is preparing for January 20th to WHYY's politics blog - Y Decide. Details are here.
Volunteer programs seeing gains in applicants
January 13, 2009
The sinking economy could be one reason more young people are tapping into volunteer programs. The nationwide program, City Year, is reporting applications have tripled in the last year. More from WHYY's Susan Phillips.
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Wilmington welcomes back a supermarket after long absence
January 13, 2009
The first full-service supermarket in years is open in the city of Wilmington. The grand opening of the Shop Rite near the riverfront is a plus for residents in the neighborhood. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports.
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Philly cops connect with Asian business community
January 12, 2009
The Philadelphia Police Department is reaching out to the Chinese American community. A crime-prevention seminar today [12 noon-2pm] comes in the wake of the murder of Korean-American businessman last week. Police say a series of crimes targeting Asian business owners may have occured because of their banking habits. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Natural gas savings may hinge on your address
January 12, 2009
The price of natural gas in the region is down. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports just how much you are going to save depends on where you live.
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Abundance of schemes may keep investors vigilant
January 12, 2009
Several local ponzi schemes have been uncovered since Bernard Madoff was arrested in New York last month for allegedly using billions of dollars from new investors to pay off older ones. One local expert says people may need to re-think how they decide who invests their money. WHYY'S Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Business leaders discuss economic downturn
January 12, 2009
Some of the region's top business leaders gather tomorrow for the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce's annual Economic Outlook breakfast. They'll be looking to find opportunity in troubled times. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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City to use social networking sites for emergency information
January 12, 2009
The city of Philadelphia is using new media to contact people in case of emergency. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports they are specifically seeking out young people with social networking sites.
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Fumo leaves big shoes to fill in Harrisburg
January 12, 2009
Prosecutors are still two weeks away from wrapping up their case against Former State Senator Vincent Fumo. But when the legislature in Harrisburg begins its new session next week, lawmakers will be meeting without one of Philadelphia's most powerful advocates. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Sugarhouse Casino takes case to the Supreme Court
January 9, 2009
Lawyers for Sugarhouse casino say the city of Philadelphia has blocked efforts to build on the waterfront in Fishtown and have taken their case back to the Supreme Court. Sugarhouse wants the court to appoint a special master to resolve their dispute with the Nutter administration. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Five New Jersey institutions for the disabled to close
January 9, 2009
A proposal to close five of New Jersey's seven state-run institutions for the disabled is drawing both criticism and support among advocates for the disabled. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Senate race open with the exit of Chris Matthews
January 9, 2009
Experts say Pennsylvania's 2010 senate race is wide open now that political talk show host Chris Matthews is out of the running. They expect Republican incumbent Arlen Specter to face strong challenges from the left and the right. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Prosecution claims Fumo obstructed an FBI investigation
January 8, 2009
The corruption trial of former State Senator Vincent Fumo continues today in federal court. The prosecution is laying out its case charging that Fumo obstructed an FBI investigation. Some say the trial in its third month could mark the beginning of the end of pay to play culture in philadelphia. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Low income energy program reinstated
January 8, 2009
A low income energy program has been reinstated just days after the oil pipe was supposed to be clamped shut. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports a local congressman and a member of a famous political family teamed up to get the oil flowing again.
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Digital-conversion deadline approaching
January 8, 2009
There are only 40 days left until all television broadcasts in the country switch to a digital signal. That means beginning February 17th you won't be able to watch anything on TVs that only get an analog signal. WHYY's Peter Crimmins has more.
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Watchdog doesn't bark at mayor's move to close libraries
January 7, 2009
Philadelphia's government watchdog agency supports the mayor's authority to close 11 libraries despite a recent court ruling. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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SEPTA tests new quiet car on the R5
January 7, 2009
Beginning Monday SEPTA will offer a designated quiet car on the R5 rail line. Riders are discouraged from using cell phones, radios, or engaging in loud conversations in the lead car during rush hours. WHYY's Peter Crimmins found out many riders welcome the idea.
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Three new eyes for traffic Big Brother
January 7, 2009
The city of Philadelphia has three new red light cameras that are up and running. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the program has done exactly what it was supposed to do.
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PA makes the grade in ESL
January 7, 2009
Pennsylvania ranks above the national average when it comes to teaching english as a second language in public schools. That is according to a report issued by the trade journal "education week." Philadelphia area schools are facing tougher state standards in teaching foreign-language students. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Stimulus package stimulates questions
January 7, 2009
With the inauguration of President-Elect Barack Obama on the horizon, a stimulus program won't be far behind. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports there are questions about just what should be a part of the program.
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Pizza delivery dangers loom in Newcastle County
January 7, 2009
Newcastle police report after seeing more than 40 robberies last year, there have been four more already - only six days into 2009. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports.
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Analyst: Corzine cuts a challenge for NJ GOP
January 7, 2009
Republican lawmakers say it's about time Governor Corzine made cuts to state departments. But the political battle to balance the budget may not be over yet. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Citgo pump for the poor dries up
January 6, 2009
A program that brought discount fuel oil to thousands is becoming a victim of the difficult financial times. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Mayor, unions begin arbitration
January 6, 2009
The Nutter administration has made a proposal to the Police and Firefighters unions as part of the arbitration process. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports both sides are on opposite ends of the spectrum in their demands.
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Libraries stay open, but changes are still underway
January 6, 2009
The Nutter administration lost its effort in court to defend closure of 11 city library branches. Now the Mayor is making widespread changes in the library system to save money in the faltering budget. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Philadelphia judges under fire
January 6, 2009
Several Philadelphia area judges are making news for a recent string of unrelated legal actions and accusations lodged against them. On Monday the state Court of Judicial Discipline suspended a Philadelphia Municipal Court Judge for issuing a fake "stay-away" order on behalf of an acquaintance. In a separate case, yesterday Pennsylvania's judicial watchdog panel filed a misconduct charge against a Philadelphia Judge for using his judicial office to help manage his real-estate holdings. WHYY'S Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Scheduled closings of Philly fire companies proceed
January 5, 2009
It's the end of the line for five engine companies and two ladder companies in the city of Philadelphia's fire department. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports they were the victim of the budget-cutter's axe.
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Nutter: financial outlook gets bleaker
January 5, 2009
The city of Philadelphia's fiscal situation is worsening. WHYY's Tom MacDonald report Mayor Michael Nutter says there could be even more cuts to city services.
Caption: Mayor Nutter at African American History Museum earlier today.
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Philadelphia says goodbye to hero doctor
January 5, 2009
Hundreds of mourners gathered at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul today to pay their final respects to Dr. John Pryor. The leader of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania's trauma team was killed during his second tour of duty in Iraq on Christmas Day. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
Caption: Frank Thompson salutes Maj. John Pryor.
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New Christmas tree recycling program
January 5, 2009
The last of the holiday wrappings, wreaths, and Christmas trees are heading to the curb. Many communities have recycling programs for the greenery. Philadelphia's Christmas tree recycling program starts today and runs through Saturday January 17. This is also the start of weekly recycling, city-wide. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service
January 5, 2009
The anniversary of the birthday of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King will be marked with a day of service. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: Martin Luther King Jr. addresses a crowd from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the Aug. 28, 1963, march on Washington, D.C., Credit: Courtesy: U.S. Navy
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Republican lawmaker pushes for stronger parole reform plan
January 6, 2009
While Governor Rendell will push for a tougher sentencing law for repeat violent offenders, Northeast Philadelphia's Republican lawmaker, John Taylor, is pushing his own parole reform plan. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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City touts first days of 3-1-1 hotline
January 2, 2009
Philadelphia city officials are declaring the launch of a new non-emergency number a success. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Electricity service out for homes on New Year's Day
January 2, 2009
Talk about your New Year's hangover. WHYY's Denis Devine has the cold-hard-facts on homes waiting to get their electricity service back after a wind-blown holiday.
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New safeguards against carbon monoxide in Philadelphia
January 2, 2009
With the new year comes new mandates to safeguard Philadelphia residents from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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A new Post for D.A. Lynn Abraham?
January 2, 2009
Philadelphia D.A. Lynn Abraham finishes her term in office at the end of this year. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says her name is being mentioned for two important posts.
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DA: Don't ring in New Year with gunshots
December 31, 2008
Philadelphia's District Attorney is sending out a stern holiday warning for people to holster their firearms. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
District Attorney Lynne Abraham and shooting victim Joe Jaskolka.
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Mayor Nutter Will Appeal Judge's Order
December 31, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter says he will appeal a judge's order keeping 11 public library branches open to the public. Nutter says he's required to balance the city's budget and ordered the closings to save about $8 million a year. But, WHYY's Tom MacDonald talked to library patrons who are thrilled with court decision.
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Police Make Progress in Crack Down Against Possession of Illegal Guns
December 31, 2008
The "stop and frisk" tactic used by Philadelphia police to crack down on those carrying guns illegally has resulted in a 60% increase in pedestrian stops over last year, though the number of guns seized is up only 1.5%. Mayor Michael Nutter says the widely publicized program has made the city safer by succesfully cut down on criminals carrying guns on city streets - and Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey reveals plans to build on statistics showing a 15% drop in homicides in 2008. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Controller's plan for budget savings called "stunt" by mayoral administration
December 31, 2008
Philadelphia officials say city controller Alan Butkovitz's plan to save the city almost half a billion dollars is more of a publicity stunt than a blueprint for success. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Judge stops city from closing libraries
December 30, 2008
A Philadelphia Judge has issued an order preventing the closing of 11 city libraries for now. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports a suit by taxpayers and members of City Council prompted the special order.
Caption: Councilman Bill Green celebrates with a library supporter.
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New state law on child safety
December 30, 2008
In West Philadelphia. Safeguarding children from preventable tragedies is the intent of Pennsylvania state law that takes effect next week. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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Philly crime down in 2008
December 30, 2008
It's been a difficult year for police officers in Philadelphia. Four officers were killed in the line of duty. But Philadelphia police have delivered on Mayor Michael Nutter's promise to reduce the number of homicides. The Police Department managed to cut violent crime 3 percent and the murder rate fell by 15 percent this year. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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It's Our City: Share your thoughts - Would you consider Mayor Nutter and Commissioner Ramsey's strategies on crime to be successful so far?
Nutter suggests library branches become "Knowledge Centers"
December 30, 2008
While the possible fate of 11 Philadelphia library branches slated to close plays out in court again today, Mayor Nutter offers an alternative solution - to reopen the branches as "knowledge centers." Nutter's proposal was met with boos when it was announced yesterday at a news meeting. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Investigations into Philadelphia charter schools reveals need for oversight
December 30, 2008
With at least three Philadelphia charter schools under federal investigation for financial misdeeds, a growing number of education officials are calling for stronger state oversight. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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What's the 3-1-1? City to find out Wednesday
December 29, 2008
Caption: Agents keep score of callers and wait times.
Need a pothole filled? Need to know when to put out recycling? Need help with a barking dog? If you live in Philadelphia, soon you'll be dialing 3-1-1. Philadelphia's new system will provide one-stop-shopping for information on city services and is set to launch this Wednesday. In a city that has a bad reputation when it comes to customer service, a large part of the launch involved training city workers on phone etiquette. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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It's Our City: In response to this story, we ask - what questions will YOU have for 3-1-1 when it starts on Wednesday?
Olde City Retailers Experience Slow Sales
December 29, 2008
From Sears to Circuit City, major retailers are reeling from slow sales this holiday season. In Olde City Philadelphia, owners of much smaller shops worry they may have it even worse. WHYY's Sarah Whites-Koditschek reports.
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Mayor to be "indicted" over library closures
December 29, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is expected this afternoon to announce a program to save some library services in the neighborhoods where eleven branches are set to close. This comes as hearings on a lawsuit filed to halt the closings begin today in Common Pleas Court. Nutter wants to close the branches to help stem a growing budget deficit. But one group of angry library users says that unless today's announcement means the libraries stay open, they won't be satisfied. They plan to issue what they call a "people's indictment" of the mayor and may use civil disobedience to prevent the closures. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Mummers Parade is Almost Ready
December 29, 2008
Thousands of participants are making sure every costume feather and sequin is in place as they prepare to strut in the 2009 Mummers Day Parade. The Franklin Institute forecasts a sunny New Year's Day - high 38 degrees for the throng expected to line Broad Street to cheer on the golden slippered comics, String bands, fancies and brigades. WHYY's Bill Hangley looks at some serious challenges facing members and organizers of the more than century old Philadelphia tradition.
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Doubt about Mummers, fireworks means good hotel deals
December 29, 2008
In Philadelphia, there is room at the inn. Good viewing spots are plentiful for the Mummers Parade and New Years Eve Fireworks. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says uncertainty over whether the events would take place has left rooms available.
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New policy for recycling collection
December 26, 2008
What's good for environment is also good for the municipal budget. That's the hope of Philadelphia officials, who hope to boost city recycling by changing to a weekly collection policy starting with the new year. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Retired captain uses navy skills as teacher
December 26, 2008
The math and science skills retired Navy Captain Richard Colonna relied on as a ship commander are now coming in handy in a high-school classroom. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Another holiday tradition: the Christmas Bird Count
December 26, 2008
Among the holiday traditions - bird lovers across the country are scanning the skies as part of the Audubon Society's Annual Christmas Bird Count. The month-long effort wraps up January 5th, so there's still time for Philadelphia-area birders to get in on the ornitho-logical action. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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Can Public-Private Partnerships save Philly's libraries?
December 24, 2008
The city's budget crunch has book lovers looking for ways to keep 11 library branches open, reaching out to foundations, individuals and corporations. Mayor Michael Nutter says an announcement about a partnership is imminent. But options may be limited for Philadelphia residents hoping to save their neighborhood libraries. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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To see photos and engage in a discussion about this story, go to the It's Our City Blog.
Montgomery County to Privatize Assisted Living Services
December 24, 2008
The Montgomery County Assisted Living Services is looking for private facilities to house their elderly residents. Pennsylvania's only County-run facility is slated to close next year due to budget cuts, and the Board of Commissioners say they can save one million dollars a year by seeking out the private sector. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Hearing on Library Closures
December 24, 2008
Patrons and employees at 11 Philadelphia library branches slated to close hope a hearing Monday will lead to an injunction keeping the facilities open. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Lawsuit Against Community Organizing Group Dropped
December 24, 2008
More than seven weeks after the election, Pennsylvania State Republican officials have dropped a lawsuit accusing a community organizing group of gathering phony voter registrations. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Toyota Dealer Remains Optimistic
December 24, 2008
Domestic and foreign automakers are being hit by the downturn in the economy. Even as Toyota this year is expected to eclipse General Motors as the world's largest car company, the president of Toyota reportedly plans to step down amid a forecasted fiscal year operating loss of more than one and a-half billion dollars. Nonetheless, WHYY's Tom MacDonald found a local car dealer who remains optimistic.
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Reaction to the Fort Dix Five verdict
December 23, 2008
Sentencing is scheduled in April for the Fort Dix five convicted of conspiring to carry out an attack on soldiers at Fort Dix. They were found not guilty of attempted murder. More from WHYY's Peter Crimmins on reaction to the verdicts read in federal court in Camden.
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Last minute shoppers will face big crowds
December 23, 2008
'Tis the season for procrastinators. The final shopping days before Christmas have retailers extending hours and in some cases staying open 24 hours until the big day. WHYY's Tom Macdonald reports people who've waited till the last minute could be fighting crowds to get some big deals.
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Memorial for 83 homeless dead in Philadelphia
December 23, 2008
A national day to remember homeless people who've died on the streets took place at Love Park Monday. WHYY's Tom Macdonald reports 83 homeless people died in the city in the past year.
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Federal investigations into Philly Core Scholarship Program
December 23, 2008
Philadelphia School District and city officials haven't decided how they'll replace the core philly scholarship program, which Congressman Chakah Fattah abruptly ended two weeks ago. Federal investigators are now taking a close look at a program that once provided city students with thousands of college scholarships every year. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Fort Dix Five found guilty of plotting, not guilty of attemping to attack
December 22, 2008
The five young men charged with conspiring to attack Fort Dix in New Jersey showed little emotion when their guilty verdict was read in Camden Federal Court today. Their families reacted with tears and anger. They could all face life sentences. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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State agency halts French Creek project
December 22, 2008
State environmental officials have ordered a halt to a development project near French Creek State Park in Chester County. The builders say they thought they already had the state permits they needed. They say red tape from the agency has already put them well behind schedule. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Mayor Doug Palmer, no plans to work for White House, committed to reviving New Jersey
December 22, 2008
Trenton faces a looming deficit and Mayor Doug Palmer says he and other mayors are asking President-elect Obama for a helping hand. Despite rumors of a new job at the White House, Palmer says he's more invested in this state's capitol. WHYY's Mary Fuchs talked to the mayor and has this report.
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Remembering a fallen police officer one month later
December 22, 2008
Religious leaders, city officials, police officers, and family members of Sargeant Timothy Simpson gathered Monday to remember the fifth Philadelphia police officer killed in the line of duty in just over a year. The group gathered at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, one month after Sargeant Simpson was killed when his patrol car was struck by another vehicle. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Code Blue for city's homeless
December 22, 2008
A dangerous dip in the mercury has city of Philadelphia officials trying to keep the homeless warm and safe. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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National Homeless Day observed in Philadelphia
December 22, 2008
A wave of winter weather that has dumped snow and ice from Seattle into New England, reminds many of people who live on the streets. More than 80 homeless people died this year in Philadelphia. National Homeless Memorial Day is marked today with a noontime ceremony in Love Park. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Travel down for holidays
December 22, 2008
Travel is again expected to be down during the long holiday break. While gas prices have plumetted in the past few months amid the sinking global economy. Nationwide, travel is expected to be down 2-percent. Travel by airline could be down 10-percent this season. WHYY's Elizabeth Fieldler reports.
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Vigil against closure of Northeastern Hospital
December 22, 2008
A vigil is expected to take place tonight outside Philadelphia's Northeastern Hospital in an effort to keep the facility open. Maternity care advocates are especially concerned about mothers who would otherwise rely on the hospital for local, affordable care. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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National Guard soldiers from 56th Strker Brigade celebrate holidays at home
December 22, 2008
Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers from the 56th Stryker Brigade head home to their families today for a final visit before being deployed to Iraq in mid-January. This will be the Pennsylvania's largest guard deployment to Iraq. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Illegal poultry in motion downstream
December 19, 2008
The owner of a former poultry plant in Bucks County about 40 miles northwest of Philadelphia was charged today with repeatedly dumping chicken parts, grease and blood into a tributary of the Schuylkill River over two years. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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Consumer Advocate calls for change of power
December 19, 2008
Pennsylvania's Consumer Advocate is calling for a re-thinking of how electricity is generated. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Donald Trump sues Pennsylvaina gaming control board
December 19, 2008
Donald Trump is suing the Pennsylvania gaming control board, adding another layer of complexity to the struggle over the building of casinos in Philadelphia. Trump filed the lawsuit in federal court in Harrisburg on Thursday. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Mummer's post-parade party in question
December 19, 2008
The Mummers are planning to strut around city hall on New Year's day for the 107th time, but the unofficial party after the parade is still in question. The mummers' march back to their culbhouses on second street attracts thousands of revelers. The city says it can't afford that. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Mixed reactions to Bush's car company bailout
December 19, 2008
President Bush unveiled his plan to aid struggling auto companies earlier today. His strategy includes $13.4 billion in emergency loans to prop up General Motors and Chrysler, then an additional $4 billion. The car companies must undergo major reorganization, and prove that they can become profitable. The President said he didn't want to step in to help the car manufacturers, but he had no choice, given the country's serious economic problems. WHYY's Elizabeth Fieldler reports.
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Possible human-trafficking case in Upper Darby
December 18, 2008
Police are trying to find a group of young, Liberian women who may be caught up in a human-trafficking operation. The case drew the attention of Upper Darby police after a girl said she and other girls were brought from Liberia by a woman who posed as her mother. While police dig deeper, some immigration professionals say the case could draw much needed attention to the plight of human trafficking victims. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Restaurant menus must have labels
December 18, 2008
In a city once labeled as the fattest in the country, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter has signed legilsation that will require fast food and chain restaurants to label menus with nutritional information, including calories, fat content, carbohydrates and salt. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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City could face lawsuit over library closures
December 18, 2008
The Nutter administration will face angry library users again tonight at the final town hall meeting scheduled to address budget cuts. Activists eager to keep open the 11 libraries Mayor Nutter slated for closure plan to hold a rally tonight at Martin Luther King High School. The Mayor could also face a class action lawsuit over the issue. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
Caption: Josina Guess, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuits, holding her daughter.
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Assessing impact of Center City casino
December 18, 2008
The Foxwoods Casino was slated for construction along the Delaware Waterfront. Now officials are considering the Gallery Mall in Center City in part because it's close to transportation and tourist hubs like Chinatown, and the Convention Center. Gamblers and gaming experts alike are considering what's at stake. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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More information:
See video interviews of Gallery patrons and nearby workers as they give their perspectives on the potential casino.
Independence Hall "free" from tyranny of bike rack barricades
December 18, 2008
Security at Independence Hall is changing and getting very high tech and almost invisible. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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A new community center opens in North Philadelphia
December 18, 2008
A new community center going up in North Philadelphia promises to offer a host of amenities to the impoverished community that surrounds it. Officials gathered today for the groundbreaking of the Ray and Joan Kroc family center. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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City Planning Commission wants to create a separate advisory board to review land development projects
December 18, 2008
The city planning commission is taking its first steps toward changing how it reviews large development projects. The commission wants to create a separate advisory board that would focus on how proposed buildings look and how they fit into their neighborhoods. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Deleware Budget gap has dropped 560 million dollars
December 17, 2008
With state revenue dropping in Delaware by another 100 million dollars, the budget gap now stands at about 560 million dollars for the current and upcoming fiscal years. How do they get out of it? One paper clip at a time, says the woman nominated by governor-elect Jack Markell to head the budget process. WHYY's Bill Cook has the story.
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Toys-for-Tots searching for aid in tough season
December 17, 2008
A program to help make the holidays happy for children is in need of some help itself. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Two charged in bilking nursing home patients
December 17, 2008
Two nurse's aides are accused of stealing from their patients, including wheelchair-bound and elderly veterans. Philadelphia Police says the pair stole money from patients at the Veterans Nursing Home on Civic Center Boulevard. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Lawsuit by firefighters to delay station closings
December 17, 2008
Philadelphia Firefighters continue their fight this afternoon to keep stations on a closing list open. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: Caption: Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers.
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Number of homes without power or heat worsens
December 16, 2008
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission released its Cold Weather Survey on Tuesday. The annual tally of homes heading into winter without utility power was expected to be high this year, and the Philadelphia region always has the lion's share. But this year, it's even worse. WHYY's Denis Devine reports.
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Rendell to Philadelphia: No state money for your libraries
December 16, 2008
Pennsylvania's Governor says there's no state money available to save libraries in Philadelphia set to be closed under budget cuts mandated by the Nutter administration. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Walmart steps in with grant for teachers
December 16, 2008
Caption: Governor Rendell and Mayor Nutter accept check on behalf of schools.
An area retailer is helping teachers in some of the city's schools buy supplies for students. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Attorney General's office investigates Fumo charity
December 16, 2008
While the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office is investigating a charity at the center of the ongoing corruption trial of former State Senator Vince Fumo, the organization's former accountant is testifying that he was misled about expenses at the non-profit. Federal prosecutors accuse Fumo of illegally using the group to pay for political polling, shopping sprees, and other personal items. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Fattah announces nationwide scholarship program
December 16, 2008
A local US Congressman says he wants to help students pay for their college education. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Fort Dix 5 arguments end today
December 16, 2008
Today defense lawyers are expected to present closing arguments to the jury in the Fort Dix case. Five foreign-born Muslim men are accused of planning to attack a New Jersey army base. Yesterday the prosecution laid out its arguments, as did one of the defendants' lawyers. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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More on the National Lampoon's securities fraud
December 16, 2008
The CEO of the company responsible for the Animal House and National Lampoon's Vacation movies could be facing jail for securities fraud. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Survey reveals numbers of no-heat households
December 15, 2008
A report due out today will reveal how many Pennsylvanians are going into winter without gas or electric heat in their home. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission's Cold Weather Survey comes a few days after it released a related list: a grim tally of all the deaths since 1989 in homes whose electric or gas service had been cut. Both lists are expected to grow this year, with the recession making it harder for Pennsylvanians to pay their utility bills. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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A week in South Street bridge shutdown, no major delays
December 15, 2008
The city is one week into a $67 million bridge reconstruction project that's expected to take up to 2 years. Last Monday, the city shutdown the 85-year-old South Street bridge that connected University City to Center City. While commuters are forced to find another way to get to work, officials say so far - so good. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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National Lampoon executives, others charged with securities fraud
December 15, 2008
The head of National Lampoon is among those who aren't laughing and could be facing jailtime if some federal charges stick. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Laurid Magid and Dan Hawk, Director of the Security and Exchange Commission's Philadelphia regional office.
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Lack of library-closure hearings angers some
December 15, 2008
A delay on the hearings surrounding the closure of city libraries has many upset. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Closing statements in Fort Dix trial
December 15, 2008
Jurors hear closing statements today in the trial of five men charged with plotting to attack soldiers at Fort Dix. The jury in federal court in Camden heard 26 days of testimony including audio tape from two FBI informants and video recorded by the defendants. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Crowded primary field for new District Attorney
December 15, 2008
There could be a croweded primary field in the race for a new Philadelphia Distric Attorney. WHYY's Tom Macdonald reports.
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A report on the number of Pennsylvanians without heat this winter
December 15, 2008
A report coming out today will detail how many Pennsylvaninas could go through winter without heat in their homes. Another Pennsylvania P-U-C report last week showed since 1989 the number of deaths in homes where electric and gas service had been but. WHYY's Denis Devine reports the recession could make things worse.
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Council approves zoning for new skyscraper
December 12, 2008
Philadelphia's skyline could get taller. City Council gave approval to zoning changes that paves the way for a 1500 foot sky-scraper at 18th and Arch streets. The building would be one of the highest in the world. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Two million dollars worth of narcotics seized in Philadelphia
December 12, 2008
Authorities are hailing a major heroin bust as a prime example of law enforcement cooperation. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Torsella steps down as Constitution Center CEO
December 12, 2008
The head of the National Constitution Center says two terms is enough and is stepping down to look for his next professional opportunity. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Controversy between non-profits to come to Philadelphia
December 12, 2008
A fundraising event for an animal-rights group to be held in Philadelphia tomorrow has pitted non-profit groups against each other. One organization is being called a terrorist group, the other a corporate shill. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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NJ may once again delay implementing paper ballots
December 12, 2008
In New Jersey, votes are counted only one way - electronically. According to a law passed three years ago, the state was supposed to have machines including a paper trail by January first 2009. But WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports a bill to extend that deadline is swiftly moving through the legislature.
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Council postpones Verizon deal again
December 11, 2008
A Philadelphia City Council committee delayed, for the second time, voting on a bill that would allow Verizon to offer pay TV service in the city. The contract with Verizon was fast-tracked by the Nutter administration, but remains stuck in council committee. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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The Fumo trial continues
December 11, 2008
As the corruption trial of former State Senator Vince Fumo continues into its eighth week, the former head of the Pennsylvania Convention Center and fumo ally Al Mezzaroba is expected to testify today. On Wednesday, Fumo's former English butler told the jury that employees from the non-profit Citizens Alliance performed multiple tasks at his Greene Street mansion. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Council debates city moneymaking ventures
December 11, 2008
Philadelphia City Council is discussing potential revenue enhancements to close the city budget gap. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Teachers stay home in support of gay rights
December 11, 2008
Since California voters banned same-sex marriages last month, gay communities across the country have seen a new wave of activism. In Pennsylvania, gay-rights advocates are focusing on passing anti-discrimination and hate-crimes laws. WHYY's Denis Devine has the story.
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New report bolsters case for gay marriage in New Jersey
December 11, 2008
New Jersey may have taken a step closer to legalizing gay marriage on Wednesday. The state's Civil Union Commission released a report yesterday that says the only way same sex couples will be granted equal rights is through gay marriage. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Calling all Girl Scouts, leaders wanted
December 10, 2008
The Girl Scout Research Institute has developed a series of leadership training programs for girls and volunteers. The project stems from a report showing both boys and girls have a difficulty wrapping their heads around leadership roles. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with Dr. Michael Conn, Vice President of the Girl Scout Research Institute. There's more information at www.gsep.org.
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Montessori students hold read-in to protest library cuts
December 9, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter's planned budget cuts have drawn criticism from some government officials and citizens. On Tuesday, more than 30 preschool through 4th grade students protested at West Philadelphia's Charles Durham branch - one of 11 libraries that's slated to close. The students don't have a library at their school, so they held a read-in and march to show their concern. The story from WHYY'S Elizabeth Fiedler.
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New Jersey businesses hoping for piece of stimulus package
December 9, 2008
Industry leaders in South Jersey want to be first in line when a new federal economic stimulus package is approved by President-elect Barack Obama. A dozen South Jersey banking, industry and labor leaders met with Congressman Rob Andrews yesterday to discuss ways in which South Jersey can rebound from the economic crisis. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Rep. Murphy eyed for Senate run
December 9, 2008
A US Congressman could be looking towards higher elected office. Democratic Congressman Patrick Murphy says he's been approached to run for U.S. Senate. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports he isn't committing to anything just yet.
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New Chancellor for Philadelphia Bar Association
December 9, 2008
The Philadelphia Bar Association welcomed its incoming chancellor at an Annual Meeting and Luncheon yesterday. The Bronx native has worked for decades as a personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia, and has also made a name for herself as a television analyst on well known cases including the O.J. Simpson trial. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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New Jersey introduces information website
December 9, 2008
How much does New Jersey spend and where does that money go? You might be able to find that out soon if New Jersey creates a searchable public information website. Republican lawmakers in Trenton are trying to do just that. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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Councilman: More water main breaks on the way
December 9, 2008
The break of a major water main is just a small part of a major infrastructure problem in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Report: Delaware Valley vulnerable to bioterror
December 9, 2008
A new report says Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware would still have problems dealing with a bioterrorism attack. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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PA Government weighs possibility of new taxes
December 8, 2008
Many Pennsylvania lawmakers oppose tax hikes to patch Pennsylvania's budget deficit. But Governor Ed Rendell and others say new taxes may be necessary to balance the books. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports.
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Program aims to put disabled veterans in financial jobs
December 8, 2008
A Philadelphia firm is doing more than just offering financial assistance to veterans who are returning seriously injured from the battlefield. It is training them for a new career. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Doubts about New Jersey state aid for poor
December 8, 2008
Poverty rates were rising in New Jersey two years ago and are continuing to rise in the current economic climate. Legal Services of New Jersey, which released those statistics in a report, says the state has a unique position to help the poor, if they can find the money. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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New Jersey remembers Pearl Harbor
December 8, 2008
The attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec 7, 1941 was commemorated Monday morning at the Battleship New Jersey at the Camden waterfront. It was the 18th annual ceremony organized by New Jersey Congressman Rob Andrews. WHYY's Peter Crimmins was there.
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South Street Bridge closes today for two year reconstruction
December 8, 2008
Commuters who usually travel the 85 year old South Street bridge between University City and Center City, now have to find an alternate route. Starting today, and for the duration of the $67 million bridge reconstruction project, which is expected to take up to 2 years, South Street will be closed to all traffic from 27th Street to Convention Avenue. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Court ruling on Fox Chase expansion this week
December 8, 2008
A ruling that will determine the future of a Northeast Philadelphia landmark is expected this week. Park supporters went to Orphans Court to stop the city from selling part of Burholme Park to a neighboring hospital. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Bucks County gets federal funds to fight gangs
December 8, 2008
A federal grant will be used to address crime in Bucks County. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports the money will be spent on both prevention and enforcement.
Caption: Bucks County District Attorney Michelle Henry
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Consumer Reports
Options for your holiday electronics shopping
Dec. 5, 2008
Electronic items top most people's holiday gift lists - both for giving and receiving. The question, though, is where to shop? Consumer Reports Electronics Editor, Paul Reynolds, has the answer.
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Council rejects ban on leaflets littering city doorways
December 5, 2008
If you're sick and tired of unwanted advertising on your doorstep, city officials say they can help. But they've rejected a bill in city council that would have banned the leaflets altogether. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Congressman returns scholarship effort to city
December 5, 2008
After failing to meet his own fundraising goals, Congressman Chakah Fattah is putting millions in scholarship funds in the hands of the city. City officials say they've seen this money before. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Council considers ways to boost local economy
December 5, 2008
City Councilman Darrell Clarke introduced a package of bills this week aims to stimulate the local economy by adjusting real estate taxes. But one real estate economist says it could have the opposite effect. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Controller keeps heat on school district over TransPass-crime link
December 5, 2008
Philadelphia City Controller Alan Butkovitz says the School District is avoiding the spike in subway crime caused by its Transpass program, and he's upset about the situation. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Adults talk about easing kids' transition to Kindergarten
December 5, 2008
A conference in Philadelphia is working to link children to the proper pre-schools so they can make a smooth transition to Kindergarten. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: State Education Secretary Gerard Zahorchak
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Library fans prepare for big rally Saturday
December 5, 2008
Library advocates are gearing up for a major rally outside the Central branch Saturday. They're opposing Mayor Michael Nutter's plans to close 11 libraries across the city to fill a budget gap. Organizers says after the rally the group will march to City Hall to drop off petitions protesting the closures. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin
Good things can come in small packages
December 5, 2008
The banking sector in the region is reinventing itself as some smaller banks capitalize on their long histories and stability. Here's Frank Devlin of the Philadelphia Business Journal-dot-com.
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Council asks Nutter to halt library closures
December 4, 2008
City Council passed a nonbinding resolution today asking the Nutter administration to delay closing libraries until the council holds hearings on the issue. But Mayor Nutter is digging his heels in on the library closures, and even some councilmembers say the resolution sends the wrong message. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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NE Philly prison going solar
December 4, 2008
The Riverside Correctional Facility on State Road in Northeast Philadelphia is turning towards the sun to help cut costs. WHYY's Tom MacDonald had a look at what is being billed as the first prison in the country to be partially powered by solar energy.
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Verizon grant helping South Philly's young readers
December 4, 2008
The Philadelphia School District has a new grant to help with literacy. WHYY's Tom MacDonald traveled to South Philadelphia to see a reading program funded by the grant in action.
Caption: Mayor Michael Nutter, School Superintendent Arlene Ackerman and Verizon Pennsylvania President Gale Given speak to children at George Washington Elementary School.
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Pennsylvania budget shortfall steeper than expected
December 4, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell announced today he will make more cuts to the state budget in anticipation of a multi-billion dollar deficit by June 30th. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports.
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Local businessman alledged to run prostitution ring
December 4, 2008
A Richboro Businessman with US and Russian citizenship is facing charges he traveled to Russia to have sex with underage girls. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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City lights Christmas Tree
December 4, 2008
The city of Philadelphia turned on the lights to its official Christmas Tree last night. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Students make biodiesel fuel
December 4, 2008
A group of junior high students at Wissahickon Charter School in North Philadelphia are filling up gas tanks with their own batch of biodiesel. For a science project they built a biodiesel processing system that converts fryer oil into fuel for cars. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Camden County anticipates rise in food stamp applications
December 4, 2008
Federal jobless benefits may have been extended but Camden County officials say that's the only thing preventing food stamp applications from soaring there. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Markell taps private sector for appointments
December 4, 2008
Delaware's Governor-Elect is reaching into the private sector to help guide the First-State's finances through some rough water. WHYY's Mark Eichmann reports.
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Council delays vote on Verizon cable franchise
December 4, 2008
Philadelphians will have to wait for the new year to find out if they'll get fresh competition in the local cable tv market. Last night a city council committee chose not to vote on a proposal to award a cable franchise to Verizon. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Nutter hopes cities get Federal help as well
December 3, 2008
The country's governors have delivered their wish lists to President-elect Obama. At a meeting in Philadelphia yesterday, the heads of states asked for help with their budget problems. Mayor Michael Nutter also made some requests of the next president. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Philly politico raves about Richardson nomination
December 3, 2008
Today President-elect Barack Obama officially announced his secretary of commerce will be New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson. A local political consultant who headed Richardson's presidential campaign in Pennsylvania says he is the right man for the job. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Nation's governors meet in Philadelphia to ask Obama for help
December 3, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell says he's optimistic President-Elect Barack Obama will heed his and other governor's advice when it comes to rebuilding the economy. Obama met with more than 40 governors Tuesday in Philadelphia. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine was once considered a candidate for Treasury Secretary in President-elect Barack Obama's administration. But on Tuesday, he joined his fellow governors to discuss the states' responses the economic crisis. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports Corzine made his case for a federal stimulus package.
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Specter, auto industry discuss bailout
December 3, 2008
US Senator Arlen Specter met Tuesday with people connected to a possible auto industry bailout to talk about the problem. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Council advances tallest skyscraper plan
December 3, 2008
As early as next week, City Council could give full approval to a plan to build one of the nation's tallest buildings in downtown Philadelphia. Today a council committe approved zoning changes that would clear the way for the 63 story American Commerce Center proposed for 19th and Arch Street. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Penn's Landing fireworks show preserved
December 3, 2008
An almost two-decade long Philadelphia tradition is preserved by some last minute funding. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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FBI informant continues testimony in Fort Dix case
December 3, 2008
Federal prosecutors are presenting evidence suggesting 5 young men from Cherry Hill accused of plotting to attack Fort Dix were immersed in radical Islamist propoganda. Videos siezed from computer hard drives celebrate military violence in the name of Holy War. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Hunting Park shooting results in one death
December 3, 2008
Philadelphia Police are seeking a suspect in a fatal Hunting Park shooting. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Two from Wilmington were in Mumbai during attacks
December 3, 2008
Two businessmen from Delaware who were at the Taj Hotel in Mumbai as terrorists went on a killing spree last Wednesday are back home now. WHYY's Mark Eichmann has their story.
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Former U.S. Treasury Secretary weighs in on the economy
December 2, 2008
WHYY's Dave Heller talks about the state of the economy with Paul O'Neil - former U.S. Treasury Secretary during President George W. Bush's 1st term in office.
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Families with foreclosing homes will get New Jersey money
December 2, 2008
Twelve million dollars in state aid will go to New Jersey families facing foreclosure. And even though the state will have to make more cuts to pay for legal counseling and mediation, Governor Jon Corzine says he hopes to help nearly thirty thousand homeowners in two years. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Fort Dix informant testifies
December 2, 2008
The trial of the alleged Fort Dix terrorist conspiracy has entered a new phase as the second FBI informant took the stand. Jurors are hearing audio recordings secretly taken of the 5 young men accused of plotting to kill U.S. military at the New Jersey base. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Kids seeking help to be witnesses to history
December 2, 2008
A North Philadelphia Youth Group is seeking funding to give some deserving students a trip the historic inauguration of the nation's first African American president. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Lehigh to train administrators with new grant
December 2, 2008
Officials at Lehigh University say they're ready to help the Philadelphia school district tackle one of its toughest problems. A new federal grant will help them train principals for the city's comprehensive high schools. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Gamblers try to keep themselves out of casinos
December 2, 2008
While the debate over two casinos slated for the city grinds forward, some gamblers are asking the government to keep them out of the state's gaming halls. More than 450 gamblers have added their names to Pennsylvania's self-exclusion list - preventing themselves from collecting winnings, recovering losses, and putting themselves at risk of arrest for entering a casino. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Chester breaks ground on soccer stadium
December 2, 2008
Construction is officially underway for a new professional soccer stadium in Chester. WHYY's Tom MacDonald was there as the first official shovels of dirt were turned.
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Utility shutoff moratorium underway
December 1, 2008
The winter moratorium is underway and utilities are barred from shutting off service to the poor. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports if you are having trouble paying your bills, you shouldn't neglect them altogether.
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Superintendent to get input from parents, teachers
December 1, 2008
Officials at the Philadelphia School District expect a full house when they host their first strategic planning meeting tomorrow night. Over 150 teachers, principals, advocates and parents have signed up to help the first-year superintendant chart a fresh course. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Clang, clang, clang went the (late) trolley
December 1, 2008
SEPTA is having a difficult time working out some bugs on the Subway-Surface Lines WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports on the problem that's causing delays for trolley riders.
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Car dealers tuned in to auto bailout
December 1, 2008
Pennsylvania car dealers are paying close attention to the national debate on whether Ford, General Motors and Chrysler should be bailed out by the federal government. WHYY's Jen Rehill spoke with a dealer from northern Pittsburgh about the implications for his family-run business.
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Governors, Obama to meet at Independence Hall
December 1, 2008
The nation's governors will be meeting with President-Elect Barack Obama in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Obama is expected to give details of his economic recovery plan and seek input from the governors. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Specter most popular pol in PA
November 29, 2008
Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter is the most popular politician in the Commonwealth, according to a new poll. And as WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, that could spell bad news for Democrats hoping to topple him from office.
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Holiday spending advice from ING Direct founder
November 28, 2008
On this Black Friday, Wilmington, Delaware based ING Direct founder and co-author of 'The Orange Code' Arkadi Kuhlmann argues for resisting the call to spend, spend spend today.
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Ice rinks get private funding; remain opened
November 26, 2008
Three Philadelphia ice rinks that were on the chopping block will open as scheduled on Monday thanks to a deal the city struck with a local youth hockey foundation. Its the first public private partnership agreement since Mayor Nutter announced service cuts to plug the $1 million dollar budget gap. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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To have turkey, many will travel
November 26, 2008
The busiest travel day of the year will have people headed to the highways in the quest for Thanksgiving fun. Tom MacDonald reports.
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Development and preservation on the Delaware
November 26, 2008
The Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers are a major focus of projects underway. The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is in the midst of several pieces of the development and preservation. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with PEC Senior Vice President Patrick Starr.
Caption: The Tidal Delaware Water Trail Map, developed by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
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Nutter gets earful at first town hall
November 26, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter met the public last night in the first of 8 town-hall meetings scheduled throughout the city. About 400 people filled the South Philadelphia high school auditorium to hear the mayor explain the cuts to services that are part of the city's response to a projected 108 million dollar deficit. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Trouble in toy land
November 25, 2008
Toys made with a dangerous chemical compound phthalates will still line the shelves this holiday season despite a new law banning their manufacture. That's the word from an annual review of toy safety released today by the Public Interest Research Group. WHYY's Bill Hanley has more.
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Mendte gets probation, house arrest
November 25, 2008
Former CBS news anchor Larry Mendte was sentenced to 6 months of house arrest and 3 years probation yesterday. He pleaded guilty to hacking into co-anchor Alycia Lane's email account 500 times in a 5-month period. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Clinics primary care source, report says
November 25, 2008
Outpatient clinics are siphoning off patients from larger hospitals in Pennsylvania, according to a new report. It is creating a network of spcialized clinics but leaving large hospitals in the red. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Biden advisor to take senate seat
November 25, 2008
Delaware's newest senator has been officially named. WHYY's Mark Eichmann has more on Ted Kaufman: the man who will take over the senate seat of Vice-President Elect Joe Biden.
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Nutter prepares for an earful at town hall meeting
November 25, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter was preparing to face some angry residents in South Philadelphia tonight at the first of eight town hall meetings on the city's budget crisis. But Nutter says that residents who oppose his budget cuts should suggest alternative cuts that can deliver long-term savings. WHYY's Susan Phillips has the story.
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First town hall on budget cuts tonight
November 25, 2008
Tonight Mayor Michael Nutter explains his decision to make some controversial budget cuts at the first of a series of town hall meetings at South Philadelphia High School. Mayor Nutter has come under fire for plans to close some libraries, swimming pools, fire companies, and suspend planned tax reductions to deal with a one billion dollar budget gap anticipated over the next 5 years. WHYY'S Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Rendell sounds off on Philadelphia budget cuts
November 25, 2008
Governor Ed Rendell is giving his opinion on Mayor Michael Nutter's budget cuts, as Mayor Nutter prepares to face the public. Tonight at the first in a series of town hall meetings, Mayor Nutter defends his plans to address a one billion dollar budget gap anticipated over the next 5 years. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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ACORN calls for halt to foreclosures
November 25, 2008
Local housing advocates are hoping to convince one of the nation's largest banks to put a hold on housing foreclosures. Wachovia Bank has so far declined to take up the offer. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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New Jersey Pension Fund in decline
November 25, 2008
New Jersey's pension funds lost nine billion dollars in investments in October. That has some state senators convinced that the state pension board needs more oversight on the investments it makes. But Governor Jon Corzine disagrees. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Funeral for Philadelphia Police Sgt. Timothy Simpson
November 24, 2008
Hundreds turned out at the funeral of a slain Philadelphia Police officer in a show of support. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Listen to the final police radio call for Philadelphia Police Sgt. Timothy Simpson
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Zebra mussels found in Susquehanna
November 24, 2008
Pennsylvania environmental officials are calling on the states boating and fishing enthusiasts to help stop the spread of a very unwelcome guest. The invasive zebra mussel has been spotted in the lower Susquehanna River, bringing the threat of both environmental and economic damage. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Mendte to be sentenced today
November 24, 2008
Former CBS-3 TV news anchor Larry Mendte is scheduled to be sentenced today in federal court for hacking into the emails of former colleague Alycia Lane. He could face 6 months in prison. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Police and firefighters honored at school luncheon
November 24, 2008
Even as the city remembers one of its fallen heroes, an elementary school in Frankford is preparing to celebrate the living. The Smedley School's annual Heroes Luncheon has become a neighborhood Thanksgiving tradition. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Juvenile delinquency down in New Jersey
November 24, 2008
Since 2003, fewer children are being arrested and detained in New Jersey and the program responsible for the reform has been so successful, the state is expanding it. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Salle Mae to set up shop in Newark, Delaware
November 21, 2008
The world's leading provider of student loans is moving to Delaware and bringing with it more than one thousand job opportunites. WHYY's Phil Andrews has more.
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Hospitals not immune from economic downturn
November 21, 2008
Many economists claim Philadelphia is largely recession-proof because so much of the local economy is based on the health care industry. But a new report shows that even hospitals are beginning to feel the economic downturn. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Community College expansion underway
November 21, 2008
Officials at the Community College of Philadelphia say they're moving ahead with a major expansion plan despite a recent round of unexpected budget cuts. The college broke ground today for a 56 million dollar renovation to its downtown campus. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there.
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Philadelphians trade guns for food vouchers
November 21, 2008
Trading guns for groceries was the mission of a gun buy back program in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: S.W.A.T. officer Ed Quintana holds one of the guns traded in today.
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Season's first snow should prompt car checkup
November 21, 2008
A winter weather wakeup today is a good reason to check to see if you are ready for what is to come. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Lawmakers press auto bailout
November 21, 2008
A Philadelphia Congressman says a bailout of the auto industry is an absolute necessity. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Charges in major fraud case
November 21, 2008
Six people are charged in connection with a major fraud scheme that resulted in a 40 million dollar haul before they were caught. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Young readers rally behind their libraries
November 21, 2008
Citizens, councilmembers, and other city officials have weighed in on Mayor Michael Nutter's proposed budget cuts, which include some libraries and swimming pools. Some young library patrons made the trip to city council yesterday to make their opinions heard too. The story from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
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Educators push for more school safety
November 21, 2008
State education officials say it's time for a collaborative approach to school safety. Thursday the board of education announced that it's launching a statewide working group charged with strengthening the bonds between students and their schools. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Council tries to bury the hatchet
November 20, 2008
Discussions between city councilmembers were calmer today - the day after a lively and sometimes tense debate between councilmembers, about Mayor Michael Nutter's budget cuts. The buzzwords today were "cooperation" and "together."
WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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PA senators seek to expand Philadelphia foreclosure program
November 20, 2008
Pennsylvania Senators Bob Casey and Arlen Specter are moving to expand a widely-praised foreclosure prevention program launched right here in Philadelphia. They're asking the federal reserve to help send in the lawyers. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Tension between mayor and some council members over budget cuts
November 20, 2008
There is still some debate over whether or not Mayor Michael Nutter consulted with City Council enough over his budget cuts. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Looming cuts for Pennsylvania budget
November 20, 2008
A top Pennsylvania official says more budget cuts are being planned as the state's economy slides into recession. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports.
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Emergency Fund struggles to offer help this winter
November 20, 2008
As the temperature drops, the Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians may not survive the winter. The amount of money in the fund is lower than the projected need. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Council moves toward approving delay in tax cuts
November 20, 2008
Philadelphia City Council took a step toward approving Mayor Michael Nutter's plan to delay tax cuts, which the mayor says will help fill 20 percent of the city's $1 billion dollar budget gap. But the approval did not come easy. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Mt. Holly residents angry over displacement
November 20, 2008
Redevelopment continues to be a point of contention in New Jersey. Some say it ruins communities because lower-income residents are forced to relocate when they can't afford the price of newer properties. That's the case in Mount Holly. Since 2002, more than three hundred homes have been bought by the township. Remaining residents say they have no where to go and only legislators to turn to. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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North Philly gets green
November 20, 2008
A home improvement retailer is donating a million dollars to help create environmentally sustainable communities in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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eHarmony forced to offer same-sex matching
November 20, 2008
The online dating site eHarmony will offer same-sex matching, after a settlement in a discrimination case filed in New Jersey. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Students lace up their running shoes for the Philadelphia marathon events
November 20, 2008
Caption: Student Run Philly Style participants in the broad street run.
The non-profit mentoring and training organization Students Run Philly Style has dozens of teenagers lacing up their running shoes for the Philadelphia marathon events Sunday. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with executive director Heather McDanel and student Alisa Footes about the program.
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Police get help in grieving fallen colleague
November 19, 2008
Philadelphia Police are teaming up with mental health professionals to help the men and women of the force cope with the death of another one of their own, the 24th district's Sgt. Timothy Simpson. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Police recruits undeterred by fallen officers
November 19, 2008
The death of six Philadelphia Police Officers in just over a year hasn't had an effect on recruitment. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Gang membership on the rise in New Jersey prisons
November 19, 2008
More than half of the twenty five thousand inmates in New Jersey state prisons are gang members. Experts say that their numbers are growing, and that prison bars are barely slowing down their criminal behavior. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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As NJ jobs disappear, state official offers advice
November 19, 2008
Six thousand New Jersey residents lost their job in the month of October, according to new numbers released by the state's Department of Labor and Workforce Development. And Department Commissioner David Socolow had some tips for those looking for a job. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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American car manufacturers on the brink
November 19, 2008
The Big 3 US Automakers are struggling for survival and an expert on the industry says they should have seen their problems coming. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more on the issue.
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City officials defend budget cuts
November 19, 2008
Officials from the fire department and the Free Library explained new cuts in services at a public forum called Phillystat yesterday. They defended their decisions to close 7 engine and ladder companies, and 11 library branches in an effort to meet a growing city deficit. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Slain police officer's funeral set
November 19, 2008
The funeral for a police officer killed in the line of duty has been set for Monday at the Cathedral in Philadelphia. Questions remain as to why the man involved in a fatal accident that killed a police officer was on the streets at the time of the crash. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Fugitives invited to turn themselves in at NJ church
November 19, 2008
New Jersey fugitives can turn themselves at a Camden's Antioch Baptist Church today, Wednesday, Nov. 19, through Saturday, Nov. 22. More than 1,000 fugitives turned themselves in at a recent Fugitive Safe Surrender program in a South Philadelphia church. WHYY'S Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Acting New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram leads indictment of a New Jersey dentist
November 19, 2008
A dentist accused of dumping medical waste that washed up on the beaches of Avalon, New Jersey, in August, has been indicted. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Caption: Acting New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram.
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Former councilwoman dies
November 19, 2008
Former Philadelphia City Councilwoman Carol Ann Campbell, the first disabled member of council and a woman whose political influence was larger than her short time in office, has died. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Panel to discuss Pennsylvania and national politics
November 19, 2008
Pennsylvania may lead the nation when it comes to growing christmas trees and mushrooms, but one thing the keystone state does NOT produce is strong presidential candidates. A panel at the Pennsylvania HIstorical society tonight takes a close look at a state whose leaders don't often rise to the top. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
Credit: Photo Courtesy of the James Buchanan Foundation, Lancaster, PA.
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New Jersey considers lowering drinking age
November 18, 2008
Three New Jersey college presidents were part of a group that called this summer for lowering the drinking age. The state's Senate Education Committee held a special hearing Monday focusing on underage and binge drinking, and whether a lowered age limit is a solution New Jersey should consider. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Shelter to open doors to Philadelphia youth
November 18, 2008
The largest teen shelter for homeless and runaway youth in the Philadelphia area, opens its doors to the community tonight in recognition of National Runaway Prevention Month. Each year hundreds of 12 to 18 year olds head to Youth Emergency Service at 1526 Fairmount Avenue for immediate shelter and support services, medical care, and academic enrichment programs. The story from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
Caption: Willie Little and Raheem Harvey.
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More information:
Find out more about Raheem Harvey's Urban Entrepreneur business at www.urbanentrepreneurs.org.
Police once again grieve for one of their own
November 18, 2008
The black bands are again encircling police badges in Philadelphia as a sign of mourning for a fallen officer. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
Captions: Sgt. Timothy Simpson (top), William Foster (left) and Deputy Police Commissioner William Blackburn (right).
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Fumo's ex-girlfriend testifies against him
November 18, 2008
Defense attorneys in the corruption trial of State Senator Vincent Fumo are expected to begin cross examination of the senator's ex-girlfriend today. The witness, who is cooperating with the prosecution, testified Monday about the senator's lavish spending habits. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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District Attorney unhappy about cuts to her office
November 18, 2008
Philadelphia's District Attorney is upset about how her office is being treated by the city as it cuts department budgets. WHYY's Tom MacDonald sat down with her and talked about her budget.
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Tightened New Jersey budget has legislators nervous about future
November 18, 2008
As New Jersey faces a budget deficit that Governor Jon Corzine said last week was $1.2 billion and growing, state legislators are debating where the money will come from for his economic stimulus package. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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City offers forum for feedback on budget cuts
November 18, 2008
Mayor Nutter has announced a series of town-hall style meetings to discuss the city's budget crisis and what can be done about it. He says he wants residents to learn about the economic situtation directly from city officials. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Libraries may get outside help
November 17, 2008
A group is offering the city of Philadelphia help to save its soon to close libraries. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more on the offer.
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Phillystat meeting postponed
November 17, 2008
Philadelphia city officials have postponed a public data-sharing meeting scheduled today. It's a decision that's sure to disappoint the firefighters who wanted to hear city officials make their case for a series of proposed firehouse closures. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Economists paint grim picture of U.S. finances
November 17, 2008
As Japan officially slips into recession, a study conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia says America has already been in a recession for many months. A quarterly survey of financial forecasters confirms the economy will worsen before it gets better. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Slowdown in new housing starts
November 17, 2008
Area homebuilders are mired in the economic downturn. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Bob Brady introduces rescue bill for cities
November 17, 2008
A local congressman is proposing a bailout for major cities, including Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom Macdonald reports if the proposal becomes law, it could give Philadelphia a major infusion of federal dollars.
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Pennsylvania taxes get good grade
November 17, 2008
A new report from a non-partisan policy research group finds that Pennsylvania ranks favorably when compared to the nation and to competitor states in overall tax and spending levels. The report is designed to help explain the state budget and taxes to the general public.
WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Fugitive killed in police shootout
November 14, 2008
A fugitive is dead after opening fire on police in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Arrest could shake up school-parent picture
November 14, 2008
Education advocates say the arrest of the head of the Philadelphia Home and School Council could offer a chance to take a fresh look at the school district's parent groups. Council President Greg Wade is out on bail after allegedly stealing more than 60,000 dollars from his own organization. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Shuttle Commander has local roots
November 14, 2008
The Commander of the Endeavor Space Shuttle flight expected to lift off today has Philadelphia roots. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Cutbacks in store for New Castle County
November 14, 2008
Declining revenue for Delaware's most populous county is leading to spending cuts. WHYY's Mark Eichmann reports.
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Mayor and Council at odds on Fire Company closures
November 14, 2008
Philadelphia City Council passed a resolution asking the mayor to commission an independent study of the budget cutting move, taking five engine companies out of service. Mayor Michael Nutter plans to eliminate the companies as part of his plan to plug the $1 billion dollar budget gap over the next five years. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports council is concerned about the impact on public safety.
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Verizon poised to compete with Comcast
November 14, 2008
Philadelphia residents could finally have a choice when it comes to cable tv service. Verizon Communications has cut a deal with the city to offer FiOS in Philadelphia, which could end the near monopoly held by Comcast Cable. A bill was introduced in City Council on Thursday. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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New Jersey may delay implementing paper ballots...again
November 14, 2008
Three years ago the state passed a law with a deadline for voter-verifiable paper ballots. That means two ways to submit your vote - one electronically, and one on a piece of paper. The state has since extended that deadline twice and may do it a third time. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Philadelphia Council votes to move casino
November 13, 2008
Philadelphia City Council took a step today toward approving a new site for a slots parlor in Center City at the Gallery shopping mall. But Chinatown residents are angry the process is moving so fast. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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School district considers its financial future
November 13, 2008
As costs rise and student enrollment shrinks, officials say they're ready for a citywide discussion about the future of the Philadelphia School District. They want parents and advocates to be part of a long-term planning process that starts next week. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Philadelphia releases list of tax delinquents
November 13, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is enlisting the help of the city Sheriff's Department to go after individuals who owe business taxes. The city published a list of about 90 businesses and individuals who together owe more than $27 million dollars. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Home and School President charged with embezzling
November 13, 2008
The head of the Philadelphia Home and School Council is out on bail after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from his own organization. School officials say they're still not sure just how bad the damage is. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Mayor Nutter hesitant to move casino
November 13, 2008
The mayor of Philadelphia is in no rush to approve a bill to give the zoning for a casino in the Gallery Shopping Mall. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Catherine Baker Knoll remembered for breaking glass ceiling
November 13, 2008
A trailblazer, Kennedy-esque, a consummate politician -- those are just a few adjectives used by those who knew Lieutenant Governor Catherine Baker Knoll. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports on the life and legacy of Pennsylvania's departed second-in-command.
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Astronaut from Philadelphia speaks to local students
November 13, 2008
A Philadelphia born astronaut came home to speak at the public school that bears his name. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more.
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Pennsylvania Lt. Governor Catherine Baker Knoll dies
November 13, 2008
Pennsylvania's first female lieutenant governor has lost her battle with cancer. WHYY's Tom Macdonald has more.
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Officials from across the state are reacting to Knoll's death with shock and sadness. From WITF in Harrisburg, Scott Detrow reports.
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Catherine Baker Knoll is being remembered as a dedicated public servant who was passionate about helping Pennsylvanians. From WITF in Harrisburg, Scott Detrow reports.
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Council to vote on Foxwoods Casino move
November 13, 2008
Philadelphia City Council is expected to approve zoning legislation today. That could pave the way for re-locating a planned South Philadelphia slots parlor in Chinatown. Chinatown residents who oppose the casino say council is jumping the gun. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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In New Jersey, calls for enhanced transit plan
November 13, 2008
There's been a lot of talk in Trenton about transportation, including highways and bridge repair. Members of the business community and transit advocates now say more needs to be done to revamp the state's outdated development plans. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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FCC Commissioner visits Philadelphia, talks digital transition
November 13, 2008
A FCC Commissioner came to Phialdelphia to talk about an important television transition. WHYY'S Tom MacDonald reports it could mean a blank set for some people next year if they don't pay attention.
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Rendell seeks federal help for state budget gap
November 12, 2008
With national debate underway on how to jump start the economy, Governor Rendell hopes for some federal help to ease the state's money crunch. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Corzine considers NJDOT source of jobs, with federal help
November 12, 2008
New Jersey's Department of Transportation is pushing for a stimulus package from the federal government. Last month, Governor Jon Corzine said road construction would create new jobs. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports the state needs those dollars in order to make that happen.
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Open space referendums in New Jersey will be funded by taxpayers
November 12, 2008
New Jersey voters in fourteen counties approved ballot measures to fund open space preservation in last week's election. But environmentalists say it's not enough because state funds may still run out in six months time. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Pennsylvania Revenue Secretary resigns
November 12, 2008
Pennsylvania Revenue Secretary Tom Wolf has resigned his post in the Rendell administration. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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Zoning code reform looks for citizen input
November 12, 2008
The Philadelphia Zoning Code Commission is moving on with plans to rewrite its outdated guidelines. Tonight, the public gets the chance to learn about rules on building in the city, and offer opinions to Mayor Michael Nutter and members of the panel. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Questions and concerns remain about South Street Bridge new design
November 12, 2008
When the South Street Bridge is demolished in December, a completely new bridge will be built on the old foundations. The city and community groups have agreed on pedestrian lanes on the deck, but the final bridge design is still not complete. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Feds offer vouchers to aid homeless veterans
November 12, 2008
Homeless veterans have housing vouchers under a new federal-city cooperative program. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Blight on agenda as PA House returns
November 12, 2008
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives returns to session today in Harrisburg. And as Jen Rehill reports from the Harrisburg, one of the first items on the agenda is a vote on legislation to get rid of blight across the state.
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Veterans Day at Delaware Memorial Bridge
November 12, 2008
Delawareans remembered the service of our veterans - at the Memorial Bridge ceremony which has been a First State tradition since 1951. WHYY's Phil Andrews has more.
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Despite controversy NJ WWII monument celebrated
November 11, 2008
Two hundred and fifty thousand dollars is still needed to finish the state's World War II memorial in Trenton. While acknowledging that controversy, veterans still heralded its unveiling today. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports on how recent and past arguments were briefly forgotten.
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Veterans remembered in Philly ceremony
November 11, 2008
Traditional Veterans Day ceremonies were held at the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald was there.
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Comparing Philly budget bind to other large cities
November 11, 2008
Some city residents are criticizing Mayor Michael Nutter's budget cuts. With a $1 billion budget gap looming over the next five years, city officials say tough choices had to be made. As WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports, Philadelphia isn't the only city in an economic bind.
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School district crunches to tackle annual teacher vacancy routine
November 11, 2008
Philadelphia school officials say they still have over a hundred vacant teaching positions. Tomorrow's meeting of the School Reform Commission will feature an update on the District's latest attempts to solve a perennial problem. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Chesco drivers to get delay information on road side
November 11, 2008
Commuters in Chester County will have a new way of knowing how long they'll be stuck in traffic. Starting next week PennDOT will start displaying travel times on signs along routes 202, 30 and 100. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Fumo trial watch: Consultant claims political work on Senate payroll
November 11, 2008
A political consultant for State Senator Vince Fumo says the bulk of the work he did while on the senate payroll was political campaign work. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Low income heating help expands but may still fall short
November 11, 2008
Last year more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians got help with home heating bills through a state's program for lower income residents but the available funding wasn't enough to help everyone who qualified. As Jen Rehill reports from the Harrisburg, the program will assist more residents this year, although state officials aren't sure how many that will be.
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Maryland's approval of slots could be a drain on Delaware
November 11, 2008
Some results on Maryland's ballot last week may have an effect on the First State. Voters in Maryland approved legalizing slot machines in several counties over the next few years. WHYY's Bill Cook looks at whether Maryland could draw Delaware gamblers over the border.
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Budget cuts proposed, but are they enough?
November 11, 2008
Philadelphia plans to cut hundreds of jobs and salaries, close swimming pools and libraries, and suspend planned tax reductions. Mayor Michael Nutter says the moves are necessary given a $1 billion budget gap expected over the next 5 years. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke to one budget watcher who applauds the mayor's moves but thinks that even more could be done.
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Doubling down on Center City metered parking
November 11, 2008
Philadelphia officials say that by doubling the cost of downtown parking meters, they'll actually make it easier to park. They're hoping that City Council approves the increase before the end of the year. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Getting to know the real James Bond
November 11, 2008
As the new James Bond film, Quantum of Solace hits the theatres, turns out the Academy of Natural Sciences was the workplace home of the "real" James Bond; A Chestnut Hill resident who spent his life and career in Philadelphia. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with academy researcher and writer Robert Peck who knew the real Bond.
Captions: Academy of Naural Sciences researcher and writer, Robert Peck (top). The "real" James Bond, the Academy of Natural Sciences ornithologist (left), and Bond with James Bond author, Ian Fleming when the two met in 1964 in Jamaica (right).
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Nutter announces plans for South Street Bridge
November 11, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter announced Monday, that the city is moving forward with the reconstruction of the 85-year-old South Street Bridge. The $67 million project is set to start in December 2008 and will be financed with 80% federal, 15% state, and 5% city dollars. As WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports the mayor used this project as an example of the huge amount of infrastructure that requires government attention.
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Comparing Philly budget bind to other large cities
November 11, 2008
Some city residents are criticizing Mayor Michael Nutter's budget cuts. With a $1 billion budget gap looming over the next five years, city officials say tough choices had to be made. As WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports, Philadelphia isn't the only city in an economic bind.
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Budget cuts proposed, but are they enough?
November 11, 2008
Philadelphia plans to cut hundreds of jobs and salaries, close swimming pools and libraries, and suspend planned tax reductions. Mayor Michael Nutter says the moves are necessary given a $1 billion budget gap expected over the next 5 years. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke to one budget watcher who applauds the mayor's moves but thinks that even more could be done.
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While core of jobs is secure, Philly starting to feel unemployment
November 10, 2008
While the nation's unemployment rate is at its highest since 1994, experts say Philadelphia's main industries - including health care and legal services - are immune to market fluctuations. But the region's temporary employment agencies indicate the job market is weakening. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Rendell wants lame duck action on health care
November 10, 2008
Pennsylvania's governor is pushing for a lame duck session of the assembly to get healthcare legislation approved. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports it's in the hands of the state senate leadership to make a decision.
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Concerns arise over sewage, pollution of North Delaware casino
November 10, 2008
Northern Liberties residents are fighting the plan put forth by a riverfront casino to handle its sewage. WHYY's tom macdonald reports the group thinks a casino could cause pollution and flooding problems.
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Fishtown to rally to save threatened library
November 10, 2008
A rally tonight at the Fishtown Library is designed to send a message to the city that residents don't want their neighborhood sanctuary shut down due to budget cuts. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Lower Merion school redistricting irks pedestrian advocates
November 10, 2008
A growing number of Narberth residents with children in Lower Merion public schools in Montgomery County are challenging the district's redistricting proposal, saying it overlooks one thing - the value of walking over taking the bus. WHYY's Jennifer Lynn reports.
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Perzel angling for return to power in State House
November 10, 2008
All four parties will hold new caucus elections later this month - but in recent years the House contests have been the most volatile. As Jen Rehill reports from the Harrisburg, this year it's possible former Republican leader John Perzel could try to retake that post.
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While core of jobs is secure, Philly starting to feel unemployment
November 10, 2008
While the nation's unemployment rate is at its highest since 1994, experts say Philadelphia's main industries - including health care and legal services - are immune to market fluctuations. But the region's temporary employment agencies indicate the job market is weakening. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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As temperature drops, winter weather tips
November 10, 2008
Winter's winds are soon going to be blowing full force, and now is the time to prepare to keep the heat in and the cold out. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
State troopers seeking diversity
November 10, 2008
A new effort is underway in Pennsylvania to boost the number of minority state troopers. Here's Frank Devlin of the Philadelphia Business Journal-dot-com.
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Nutter: Obama must make cities a priority
November 8, 2008
The same week the country elected a new president, Philadelphia city officials announced drastic cutbacks in light of a $1 billion budget gap expected over the next 5 years. In addition to lay-offs and service cuts, Mayor Michael Nutter says the city needs help from the country's next leader. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Public housing agency reacts to mayor's cuts
November 8, 2008
The Philadelphia Housing Authority is coming to grips with Mayor Michael Nutter's budget cuts, even though they get very little funding from the city. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Job losses in New Jersey come with one small benefit
November 7, 2008
Job losses in New Jersey have reached twenty thousand so far this year. The state has yet to release its unemployment figures for the fall. But one man who represents business employers says there may be a very thin silver lining. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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A visit to a city library on the chopping block
November 7, 2008
The city plans to close 11 libraries as part of a plan to address a $1 billion budget gap expected over the next five years. Mayor Michael Nutter made the announcement yesterday, and is already drawing criticism from library patrons. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler paid a visit to one of particularly vital branch in South Philadelphia to hear from users of the Fumo Family branch.
Caption: Library patrons Quinn Sowell and Lewis Lepow
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For Nutter, the day after the big cuts
November 7, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is dealing with the fallout of budget cuts. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Business and charities react to budget cuts
November 7, 2008
Representatives of Philadelphia's business and philanthropic communities say they're ready to do their part to help the city through its latest budget crisis. But they'll also have their own bottom lines to worry about. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Trial in Danieal Kelly murder gets underway
November 7, 2008
The preliminary hearing continues in the trial of Danieal Kelly, the 14 year-old girl with cerebral palsy who died from neglect under the watch of the Department of Human Services. Both Kelly's mother and the DHS caseworker are being tried for murder. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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To close an historic budget gap, Nutter proposes cuts to libraries, rec centers
November 7, 2008
With a $1 billion budget gap expected over the next 5 years, Mayor Michael Nutter is slashing the city's spending. Yesterday the mayor announced lay-offs, pay cuts, and the closing of 68 pools and 11 libraries. Mayor Michael Nutter said that the library cuts would be especially painful for him, but are necessary given the city's financial predicament. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Return Day in DE starring the new vice-president elect
November 7, 2008
Delaware's Joe Biden was only part of the story. As Governor-elect Jack Markell said, return day is a time to set partisanship aside. Or as others call it - to bury the hatchet. WHYY's Bill Cook has more from Georgetown, in Sussex county.
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Math in NJ economic aid bills not adding up
November 7, 2008
Measures intended to help New Jersey's economy have been racing through the legislature. But some say lawmakers aren't doing the math to make sure those bills will help the state rather than hinder it. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Deceased State Senator wins re-election, special election looms
November 7, 2008
A number of candidates are being considered for the state senate seat of the late James Rhoades. He held a senate spot in northeastern Pennsylvania. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from the Capitol.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Prospects for minority business in Philly brighten
November 7, 2008
Good news for minorities who want to do business with the city of Philadelphia. More from Frank Devlin.
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Consumer Reports:
The best double-A batteries to power your life
November 7, 2008
When everyone is posed and saying cheese, you might use stronger language if your camera's batteries have died. Consumer Reports Electronics Editor, Paul Reynolds, has the latest on double-A batteries.
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Reactions to Obama election from two local journalism icons
November 7, 2008
This week's election of Senator Barack Obama to be the first African American president has some of journalism's trailblazers in Philadelphia excited about the future. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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With PA Dems claiming victory in house, attention turns to leadership
November 6, 2008
House Democrats are claiming a new, larger majority in the state House of Representatives, even as several elections in the Philadelphia area remain too close to call. But, as WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, it remains to be seen if the embattled current majority leader will be re-elected when the caucus holds its private elections later this month.
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Latest on City budget cuts
November 6, 2008
A mid-year revision of epic proportions. That's what Mayor Michael Nutter calls a new budget plan designed to slash the city's discretionary budget and salvage his five-year spending plan. WHYY's Bill Hangley has the early update.
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Prominent black journalists recall difficult times in the profession
November 6, 2008
Two legendary African American journalists were honored during a luncheon in Philadelphia today. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports they remember a time when it was difficult to do their jobs.
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Conservation preached for public housing residents
November 6, 2008
The Philadelphia Housing Authority is trying to encourage its residents to cut energy use to battle the increasing costs. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports from their energy fair in North Philadelphia.
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In NJ, ballot questions split on state legislature power
November 6, 2008
The fate of New Jersey's two statewide ballot questions has some puzzled. Both were designed to take some power away from legislators and give it to residents. But only one question was successful in the voting booth. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Nutter to announce budget cuts today, City Controller has suggestions
November 6, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter plans to release details today about major budget cuts designed to address a projected $850 million dollar deficit. The mayor's office is mum on the details, but Nutter is already getting some unsolicited financial advice. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Pennsylvania's role in Obama victory could mean a lot for state
November 6, 2008
Voters from cities and suburbs around Philadelphia turned out in large numbers for president-elect Barack Obama and other Democrats. The election results may leave the Keystone State in the spotlight for the next presidential administration. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Rendell hesitant about possible cabinet post
November 6, 2008
Don't expect to see Pennsylvania's governor moving into a post in the Obama administration. WHYY's Tom MacDonald asked the state's chief executive if he would be open to a cabinet post.
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Rendell speculates about Obama priorities
November 5, 2008
Pennsylvania's governor says with the election over, it's time to look ahead to the priorities of the Obama administration. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Some merchants running for cover during World Series parade
October 31, 2008
It's party time in Philadelphia as hundreds of thousands of people are expected to line Broad Street today for the Phillies' victory parade. Some business owners along the route suffered smashed windows and other damage Wednesday night but as WHYY's Susan Phillips reports, some are planning to close while others are looking forward to the business the parade will bring.
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Chinatown anti-casino activists gear up for tough fight
October 31, 2008
Community activists from Chinatown will visit City Council tomorrow to try to stop the Foxwoods Casino from opening on Market Street East. But city officials say casino opponents don't stand much of a chance. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Psychological impact of World Series win
October 31, 2008
The Phillies' World Series victory is good for the economy and for hungry fans who waited 28 years for the title. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports that the championship may also improve the city.
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Parade planning proves difficult
October 31, 2008
It's time for a Phillies party, and WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports it's a logistical nightmare to deal with the thousands who will pack the parade route.
Photo Caption: Commissioner Ramsey discusses police efforts to prevent further damage.
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Championship gear flies off the shelves
October 31, 2008
With a champion home team, baseball fans are suiting up in a whole new set of clothes. Phillies merchandise is in high demand right now and stores are having a hard time keeping up. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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City rebuilds after a night of World Series partying
October 30, 2008
The joy of the Phillies championship series last night turned into headaches for some Center City merchants now left with cleaning up the mess. Fans toppled light poles, smashed bus stops, set trees on fire and broke windows last night along Broad Street. Police arrested 88 people for everything from burglary to disorderly conduct. Twelve were charged with assaults on police officers. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
Photo Caption: Streets Department workers rebuild a light post in the sports complex.
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Could parade attract a million?
October 30, 2008
Philadelphia police are expecting a million people or more could line the streets of Philadelphia for a victory parade. As WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports, Mayor Nutter has a strong warning.
Photo Caption: Mayor Nutter looks on as Phillies President Dave Montgomery addresses reporters.
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Fans dig deep to buy a piece of Phillies history
October 30, 2008
The hometown champs are causing people to open their wallets today. Stores are mobbed with fans picking up t-shirts, hats, pennants, flags, anything they can find with World Champs printed on it. WHYY Peter Crimmins reports.
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Ballpark turns into one big party...
October 30, 2008
Celebrations across the city erupted when the Phils won the World Series last night. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports from the one at the ballpark.
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...that spreads to neighborhood streets
October 30, 2008
Phillies fans took to the street right after the final out to celebrate a Phillies victory. WHYY's Tom MacDonald spoke to several fans along the route.
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Defense in Fumo trial gets crack at Fumo kin
October 30, 2008
Cross examination of State Senator Vince Fumo's estranged son-in-law continues Thursday in a federal courthouse in Center City Philadelphia. Fumo and an aide, Ruth Arnao, are charged with defrauding the State Senate, the nonprofit Citizen's Alliance and the Independence Seaport Museum of more than $3.5 million. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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PA town's anti-immigration laws get heard in court
October 30, 2008
A federal appeals court in Philadelphia will hear arguments Thursday on the constitutionality of Hazleton, Pennsylvania's anti-immigration laws. The decision will be closely watched across the country as a test of whether or not local municipalities can regulate immigration. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Fort Dix Five trial continues with informant-produced recordings
October 29, 2008
The trial of the Fort Dix Five continued today with hours of secretly recorded conversations between an FBI informant and one of the young men accused of plotting to attack the New Jersey military base. Both the prosecution and defense attorneys say the recordings support their respective arguments. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Bike parking added to B.F. Parkway institution
October 29, 2008
A Philadelphia cultural institution is the first in the city to add bicycle parking under a new program. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Bring out the dogs? Police prepare for post-game possibilities
October 29, 2008
Philadelphia police are ready to handle any post-game Phillies celebrations. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Pouring rain keeps World Series-related cash pouring in
October 29, 2008
While baseball fans are frustrated by the delays in the World Series, some local businesses are cashing in. Retail, hotels, and sports bars are seeing tremendous sales, but it may be too much of a good thing. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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If Phillies win, City passes on costs of parade
October 29, 2008
If the Phillies win tonight, a victory celebration could be privately financed, but there won't be any name attached to it. WHYY's Tom MacDonald explains.
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City Council fights handicapped parking abuse
October 28, 2008
The abuse of handicapped parking in Philadelphia was the subject of a Philadelphia City Council hearing. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Nutter backs MLB decision to postpone game
October 28, 2008
Game Five of the World Series remains suspended. Major League Baseball has decided not to play the rest of the game tonight due to bad weather. While calling the game disappointed many fans, one of the biggest Phillies fans is behind the decision of Major League Baseball to suspend last night's game. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Phillies-Rays brace for un-baseball-like conditions
October 28, 2008
The Phils and Rays have a chance of completing their rain shortened game at Citizens Bank Ballpark. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that the forecast for tonight won't be the best for the players, or the fans.
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Fumo trial continues as witness describes Vince's "king-like" lifestyle
October 28, 2008
Testimony resumes tomorrow in the federal corruption trial of Pennsylvania State Senator Vince Fumo. A prosecution witness describes Fumo as a powerful politician living like a king in a 33-room mansion with state-paid underlings to carry out his orders. Fumo and an aide, Ruth Arnao, are charged with defrauding the State Senate, the Philadelphia Independence Seaport Museum and a nonprofit group of more than $3.5 million. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Fort Dix Five face government's star witness
October 28, 2008
The federal prosecution's star witness is expected to take the stand in Camden today in the case of the Fort Dix Five. Paid FBI informant Mahmoud Omar used a concealed microphone to capture conversations with the five alleged conspirators from Cherry Hill. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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New Jersey passes economic stimulus bills
October 28, 2008
New Jersey Assembly members approve more than two dozen economic rescue bills in a busy day at the Trenton Statehouse. Yesterday's votes were part of lawmakers' focus on easing financial hardships facing Garden State residents and businesses. The bills include aid for some homeowners facing foreclosure, a cash infusion to food pantries and more generous tax write-downs for businesses. Lawmakers promise the bills will become law and help residents quickly. Though it has yet to be determined where the funding will come from. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Phillies fans put hopes on hold
October 28, 2008
When the weather clears and play resumes — Phillies fans who endured soaking rain to cheer the team on last night will return with the knowledge that a delayed victory is all the sweeter when it results in a World Series title. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Teachers union contemplates a strike
October 28, 2008
With just days to go before its contract expires, the Philadelphia Teachers union has called a special membership meeting for tomorrow night. The members could accept a new contract, or they could authorize a strike. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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School District lunch program threatened with federal cuts
October 28, 2008
Some of the region's top elected officials say they'll fight hard to protect the Philadelphia School District's universal feeding program. The federal government wants to end a free lunch policy that supporters say is both efficient and effective. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Among weekend's sports winners: SEPTA
October 27, 2008
SEPTA set a record over the weekend for people using mass transit to go to the sports complex. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Philly police prepare for Game 5
October 27, 2008
Extra philadelphia police are being called in to handle any post-Phillies game celebrations. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Nutter treads lightly on the "P" word
October 27, 2008
Philadelphia's mayor is suffering from a case of Phillies fever. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says this is one disease that is good for the city.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Your tax dollars not at work any more?
October 27, 2008
Government spending is among the many casualties of the financial crisis. How might this affect you? Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Philly weathering economic crisis well
October 27, 2008
The head of the Center City district says Philadelphia is faring well in these tough economic times. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Bracing for a traffic storm in South Philadelphia
October 26, 2008
South Philadelphia and fans of the Phillies, Eagles and rock group, The Who, are bracing for a harmonic convergence of traffic trouble today. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the gory details.
Photo Caption: Deputy Commissioner Steve Johnson warns of a traffic tsunami
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More information about parking and transit:
SEPTA Regional Rail, bus and trolley routes provide convenient connections with the Broad Street Line in Center City and weekend parking at SEPTA Regional Rail stations is free. The Philadelphia Parking Authority will also have parking lots available for commuters on game day who want to park in Center City and take SEPTA. Commuters may park at any of the lots for $5.00 and purchase SEPTA tokens ($2.90) from parking lot attendants. The parking lots are all located near City Hall Station on the Broad Street Line including:
AutoPark - JFK Plaza Garage - 15th & Arch Sts.
AutoPark - Center City Lot - 15th & Arch Sts.
Gateway Garage - 15th & Vine Sts.
AutoPark - Gallery Mall - 10th & Filberts Sts.
AutoPark - Jefferson - 10th & Ludlow Sts.
Parkway Lot - Broad & Race Sts.
Parkway Lot - Broad & Wood Sts.
Parkway Lot - Broad & Callowhill Sts.
Nutter hosts World Series trophy
October 24, 2008
The World Series trophy made a visit to Philadelphia City Hall. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says Mayor Michael Nutter hopes it stays in the city, but also is sending a stern warning to Phillies fans.
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Low local foreclosure rate cited as model for country
October 24, 2008
Philadelphia's foreclosure prevention program should be a model for the nation. That's the word from Pennsylvania Senators Bob Casey and Arlen Specter, who held hearings on foreclosures at City Hall today. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there.
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What's that smell? Check New Jersey
October 24, 2008
A smoky smell in the Philadelphia area is because of a New jersey forest fire. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Phillies World Series means city on a world stage
October 24, 2008
The City of Philadelphia is gaining benefits from the Phillies entry into the World Series. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that it's not all financial.
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Fumo trial gets personal as family takes the stand
October 24, 2008
Testimony in the federal corruption trial of State Senator Vincent Fumo continues Monday when Fumo's estranged son-in-law is is back on the witness stand. Fumo faces a 139-count indictment. He is charged with misusing almost $3.5 million dollars and turning his staff into personal servants and political operatives. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Affordable "green" housing comes to Philadelphia
October 24, 2008
Habitat for Humanity is putting the final touches on the first set of affordable housing built to certified Green housing. Low-income families will begin moving into these energy-efficient and sustainably constructed row homes next week. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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NJ moves to fund low-income aid organizations
October 24, 2008
The state is moving right along with legislation to help the economy. At least that's what some Budget Assembly Committee members say. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Delaware's Chrysler Plant announces closing
October 24, 2008
Delaware's economy takes another big hit. The Chrysler plant, running just one shift since 2006, will be shut down a year earlier than expected. WHYY's Bill Cook reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Big business in depression treatment
October 24, 2008
A Chester County company is making strides in a treatment for depression. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Consumer Reports:
The cost of deferred car maintenance
October 24, 2008
When budgets are tight, it can be tempting to save money by putting off scheduled maintenance on your car. While this can save money in the short term, it can cost much more in the long run. Here's Consumer Reports Automotive Editor, Rik Paul.
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Business leader Cohen: Slow down tax cuts
October 23, 2008
The new chairman of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce says businesses need more than tax cuts. Legendary mover and shaker David L. Cohen has an ambitious agenda for the city's leading business association. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Former Phils on Phillies bandwagon
October 23, 2008
Some former Phillies are feeling good about the chances of the home team in the World Series. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Caption: Former Phillies pitcher Ricky Bottalico
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Campus Philly announces plans for retaining graduates
October 23, 2008
The effort continues to keep college students in Philadelphia after they graduate. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Caption: Campus Philly Director Jon Hermann
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Fallen police honored with street renaming
October 23, 2008
Fourteen city streets will be renamed after seven of Philadelphia's fallen police officers. The city will permanently change the street names where the officer both lived and died. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Crime stopping citizens honored by Center City improvement group
October 23, 2008
Civilians and police who helped stop crime have been honored by the Center City District. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Testimony in Fumo trial focuses on staff time
October 23, 2008
Testimony continues today in the federal corruption trial of State Senator Vincent Fumo. Fumo faces a 139-count indictment. He is charged with misusing almost $3.5 million dollars and turning his staff into personal servants and political operatives. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Treasury program aims to get more to open bank accounts
October 23, 2008
The recent Pew poll estimates that over 81,000 Philadelphians do not have bank accounts. Now Philadelphia has been chosen to be part of a U.S. Treasury pilot program to get more people to use financial services. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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New Jersey counties racing to get new voters on the books
October 23, 2008
With less than two weeks to go, counties around the state are putting new voters' names in the system and on the books as fast as they can. But even if every county makes it, there will still be longer lines and probably confusion at the polls WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Formerly flood-ravaged towns along Delaware get relief
October 23, 2008
Residents of Yardley, Pennsylvania can expect less damage after future storms than in the past. Two years ago floods wreaked havoc with the borough's sewer system. It's only now recovering financially from the disaster. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Teen drivers still refusing to buckle up
October 23, 2008
It's National Teen Driver Safety Week, but Pennsylvania's youngest drivers still aren't buckling up like they should. That's the word from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, which is trying to convince teenagers to stick with a healthy habit. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Opening statements lay out the Fumo case
October 23, 2008
Testimony in the federal corruption trial of State Senator Vincent Fumo began yesterday. Attorneys for both sides wrapped up their opening statements this afternoon at the courthouse in downtown Philadelphia. Fumo faces a 139-count indictment and is charged with misusing almost $3.5 million dollars. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Council grills Philly Finance Director on deficit
October 22, 2008
The City Finance Department came before City Council's Financial Stability Committee to explain why the original budget deficit projection may nearly double in 5 years. The Finance Director heard suggestions on how to trim city expenditures. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Report: NJ employees abuse state vehicles
October 22, 2008
State cars are still being misused by New Jersey state employees. A report by the State Auditor shows that workers are not reporting mileage backlogs and are driving cars that are months overdue for service. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Delaware Food Bank gets creative in seeking donations
October 22, 2008
As the holidays approach the need for food donations are greater than ever. The Food Bank of Delaware kicked off its annual holiday food drive. WHYY's Stella Payne has more on the story.
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Inquirer sportswriter Jim Salisbury on the Phillies
October 22, 2008
The Phillies World Series journey is underway against the Tampa Bay Rays. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with Inquirer sportswriter Jim Salisbury.
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Mayor Nutter's environmental agenda attracts praise
October 21, 2008
Environmental groups are giving Mayor Michael Nutter high marks for making good on his promises during his first ten months in office. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Rendell lifts parole moratorium but keeps violent offenders locked up
October 21, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell is lifting a three-week-old moratorium on paroles for state prisoners, but only for non-violent offenders. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Dunkin Donuts bandits strike in West Philly and Upper Darby
October 21, 2008
Police say a group of armed robbers are targeting convenience stores in and around Upper Darby and West Philadelphia. They want shoppers and store clerks throughout the western part of the region to be on the lookout for four men considered armed and dangerous. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Fort Dix Defense: Five guilty of machismo not terror
October 21, 2008
In their opening statements in the Fort Dix trial, federal prosecutors say they have hours of audio recordings from a wiretapped FBI informant that proves the five young men who lived in Cherry Hill conspired to kill American soldiers at Fort Dix. Defense attorneys say they will use those same recordings to prove their innocence. WHYY's Peter Crimmins.
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Local 98's fine seen as victory for city's ethic board
October 21, 2008
Local good government advocates say the city's Board of Ethics has proved it has real teeth by fining a local union for illegal campaign activities. But the size of the fine leaves them wondering whether those teeth are sharp enough. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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NJ prosecutes fraudulent "rent-to-own" schemers
October 21, 2008
Thirty-seven mortgage lenders across the state may spend time in court with Attorney General Anne Milgram. In a scheme to make money off of foreclosures, these lenders allegedly walked away with $13 million dollars and $3 million in home equity. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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New Councilmembers suggest ways to cut city's shortfall
October 20, 2008
As Philadelphia city government considers ways to deal with a potential $850 million shortfall over the next five years, three freshman council members are suggesting the city trim the fat before cutting major programs. They call is losing the "freshman 15." WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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More information:
It's Our Money: Freshman 15: 15 ways to save $50 million
Rendell continues support for statewide high school graduation exam
October 20, 2008
Governor Ed Rendell says he's not giving up the fight to create mandatory graduation exams for all Pennsylvania high school seniors. The governor spoke today a conference on workforce development sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PA State Senator killed in weekend car accident
October 20, 2008
Pennsylvania Schuylkill County State Senator Jim Rhoades died Saturday following a car accident Friday night. As WHYY's Jen Rehill reports, Rhoades served 28 years in the Senate, and used his chairmanship of the Education Committee to improve schools across the Commonwealth.
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Fort Dix 5 trial begins
October 20, 2008
The trial against the 5 men who allegedly ploted to attack Fort Dix in New Jersey began today in Camden with opening statements by federal prosecutors and defense attorneys. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Population loss leads to uneven use of Philly public schools
October 20, 2008
According to a new study, decades of population loss have left the Philadelphia School District with thousands of extra seats. But some parts of the city still suffer from chronic overcrowding. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Fumo jury selection to wrap up today
October 20, 2008
Jury selection in the federal corruption trial of Pennsylvania State Senator Vince Fumo is expected to wrap up today followed by opening statements on Tuesday. The powerful state senator faces a 139-count indictment. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Truancy centers evaluated, some cut
October 20, 2008
A major initiative of the John Street administration is being scaled back under Mayor Michael Nutter. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin
The good news: one bank that is doing just fine
October 20, 2008
One Pennsylvania-based bank is faring well despite the credit crisis. Here's Frank Devlin of the Philadelphia Business Journal.com.
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Feds wiretap jail toilet for the straight dirt on a suspect (seriously!)
October 18, 2008
A unique method of communication was used by a suspect to coerce witnesses. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says the U.S. Attorney used a unique wiretap in this case.
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Investment clubs look for silver lining in Wall Street turmoil
October 18, 2008
A month that has made financial history on Wall Street has one Delaware investment club taking action. WHYY's Megan Pinto reports.
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Rendell enacts tough gun law to protect PA police
October 17, 2008
As of today, twenty years in prison is the mandatory sentence for annyone who fires a gun at a police officer in Pennsylvania. But even as Governor Ed Rendell signed the bill into law, he said it doesn't do enough to stop gun violence. The NRA, on the other hand, claims it goes too far. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Jocelyn "Bonnie" Kirsch gets 5 years despite pleas of mental illness
October 17, 2008
The former Drexel student convicted of identity fraud was sentenced to 5 years in prison today. Jocelyn Kirsch faced a federal judge and said that she is sorry for using the identities of 50 friends and neighbors to steal over 100,000 dollars. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Despite more access to food aid, prices may lead to more hunger in the region
October 17, 2008
City and state officials say that changes to the food stamp program mean thousands more Philadelphians will be eligible. But advocates worry that rising food prices mean a hungry winter in still in store for the region. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Local food charity gears up for annual "Pie-in-the-Sky" fundraiser
October 17, 2008
This is the 12th year that the Philadelphia organization MANNA is baking up gourmet desserts for its Thanksgiving "Pie-In-The-Sky" fund raiser. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports on the scrumptious way to help people in need. The deadline to order is November 19th.
Photo Caption: A MANNA volunteer shows off his organization's famous product
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Top economic development official leaving Rendell's cabinet
October 17, 2008
Pennsylvania's top economic development official is departing the Rendell administration. As Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Yablonsky leaves the post next week.
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Governor Corzine reveals plan to bail out New Jersey
October 17, 2008
In a highly anticipated joint legislative session, Governor Jon Corzine offered an economic plan to solve the state's woes. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports some money will go to the state's neediest while legislators continue to slash the budget.
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GOP and Dems in NJ react to Corzine's plan
October 17, 2008
Both sides of the aisle applauded Governor Jon Corzine's economic plan. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports there was still grumbling in the State House halls, but not much.
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Casino legislation moves forward for Center City location as Chinatown asks for a say
October 16, 2008
Chinatown residents are angry that City Councilman Frank DiCicco introduced zoning legislation that could pave the way for a slots parlor at the Gallery. Councilman DiCicco introduced the bill at a council session this morning. He says the proposal to move the planned Foxwoods Casino from South Philadelphia to Center City is far from a done deal. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Prison program teaches fruit and vegetable raising to inmates
October 16, 2008
The harvest season is drawing to a close at Philadelphia's county prison. A program through the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is giving inmates the chance to grow organic vegetables for area food pantries. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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School District announces new discipline system to combat violence
October 16, 2008
Philadelphia school officials say they're toughening up their approach to violence in public schools. Yesterday the district announced that it's streamlining a disciplinary system that critics have long held is cumbersome and ineffective. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Cyber crimes on the rise as economy tanks
October 16, 2008
The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania warned people to watch out for cyber criminals looking to take advantage in this economy. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Caption: U.S. Attorney Laurie Magid sounds alarm on cyber criminals.
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NJ GOP argue for economic plan
October 16, 2008
Thirty-nine hundred jobs were lost in the state in September but Republican state lawmakers say their economic plan won't create new jobs but keep the ones residents already have. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Help on the way for rising energy bills
October 15, 2008
Governor Ed Rendell has announced an additional $87 million of state and federal money to keep Pennsylvania warm this winter. A program to help low-income people pay their heating bill is being extended to moderate-income people. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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School Reform Commission expected to revoke school charters
October 15, 2008
The future of a Northwest Philadelphia charter school hangs on a vote by the School Reform Commission today. The school could become the first Philadelphia charter to lose its access to public school dollars. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Nutter endorses ballot measure for Parks-Recreation merger
October 15, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter has put his support behind a ballot measure that would combine the Department of Recreation and Fairmount Park. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Officers cleared in recent shootings
October 15, 2008
Two Philadelphia police officers have been have been cleared in two separate shootings. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Caption: Over 155 separate casings and bullet fragments were found at the scene of 1711 and 1713 N. 59th Street.
Photo Caption: District Attorney Lynne Abraham (left) says her office will not pursue criminal charges against police officers involved in recent shootings. More shell casings at the basement entrance to 1713 N. 59th Street.
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Parking Authority cops to issue refunds for wrongful red-light tickets
October 15, 2008
The Philadelphia Parking Authority is sending out thousands of refunds to people who actually ran red lights and got caught by the city's red light camera system. WHYY's Tom MacDonald explains why the refunds are being issued.
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Mayor Nutter talks baseball
October 15, 2008
Philadelphia's number one fan isn't trying to jinx anything when it comes to the Phillies advancing beyond the National League Championship Series. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Credit: Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter on the mound at the Phillies' home opener, Monday, March 31, 2008. AP Photo by Matt Rourke
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NJ GOP explores cutting revenue from sales tax
October 15, 2008
This year's sales tax is supposed to bring in nearly nine billion dollars for the state's budget. But Republicans say New Jersey's already high tax will keep shoppers from buying this holiday season. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports state legislators are trying to predict who will buy and why if they bring the tax down to three point five percent.
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Campbell's breaks ground on new facility in Camden
October 14, 2008
Campbell's Soup has begun building a new employee center in Camden, New Jersey, on Tuesday. City and New Jersey state leaders are banking on the project attracting new businesses to one of the poorest cities in the country. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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City expects no danger to funds due to bank failures
October 14, 2008
A wave of bank consolidations doesn't have the City of Philadelphia worried. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Suspect arrested in I-76 shooting
October 14, 2008
Philadelphia police have arrested a South Philadelphia man in an apparent road rage shooting that left a man in critical condition. The victim's eight-year-old daughter was also in the car. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Princeton professor, NYT columnist Krugman wins Nobel Prize in economics
October 14, 2008
His contributions to economic theory have aided policy makers, educated young economists, and are read religiously by followers of his column. Princeton Professor and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman was awarded the Nobel Prize yesterday. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story.
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New Jersey hosts conference on treatment of brain-injured veterans
October 14, 2008
Thousands of Iraq War soldiers have sustained major brain injuries from road side explosions. And an international conference in Paterson this week will look at just how to treat those veterans. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports that both medical professionals and Congress members say they have a stake in this research.
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Mayor appoints ethics, campaign finance reform task force
October 13, 2008
A new task force in Philadelphia is looking into reform the rules on ethics and campaign financing. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Despite today's gains, stock market future uncertain
October 13, 2008
The stock market is up today, but some local experts say it's too early to tell whether the market has really bottomed out. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Photo Caption: Bear, DE resident 8-year-old Michael Anderson (left) and Bensalem resident Sam Breustedt (right)
Phillies Fever
October 13, 2008
Phillies fever is sweeping the area, as the team heads into tonight's game 4 showdown with the Los Angeles Dodgers. It's been decades since the Phils won the World Series. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke with some fans who say this just might be the year the city finally wins a championship.
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More information:
Join in the fun on WHYY's sports blog, Unobstructed View
Police have clue in Schuylkill Expressway shooting
October 13, 2008
Philadelphia police have new information in the quest to find the person responsible for a Schuylkill Expressway shooting. Police have a picture of the vehicle of interest as it pulled away from the tolls after coming into Philadelphia on the night of the shooting. Poice Lieutenant Frank Vanore said that the driver of the charcoal gray Ford F-150 (pictured above) might have seen the shooting that occurred on October 4th near Passayunk Avenue. A full description of the truck: super cab with two regular sized doors and two smaller doors. Anyone with information about the truck or the identity of the driver should call South Detectives at 215-686-3013 or the Philadelphia Police tip line at 215-686-TIPS.
City grapples with rapidly expanding budget deficit
October 13, 2008
Most city office are closed for Columbus Day today, but the city finance department has a big problem looming over it. The expected $450 million city deficit over 5 years may grow to be almost twice that much, and city officials saw it coming. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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The psychology of a winning baseball team
October 13, 2008
The troubled economy and what some call the dirty politics of the ongoing presidential race have some people struggling to figure out how to pay the bills and for whom to vote. Part of the answer to making sure cooler heads prevail may lie with the Philadelphia Phillies. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler explains.
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Wildwood boardwalk undergoing environmentally friendly facelift
October 13, 2008
A multi-million dollar replacement program begins today for the Wildwood Boardwalk. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says the project isn't using hardwood from the Brazilian rainforest.
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Schuylkill Expressway begins weekend closures
October 11, 2008
This is the first weekend of a closure of portion of the Schuylkill Expressway as part of a redecking project. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that state officials say the best thing to do is avoid the area.
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For region's Wachovia employees, future remains uncertain
October 10, 2008
After announcing a merger with New York's Citibank less than two weeks ago, Wachovia Bank has agreed to be purchased instead by San Francisco's Wells Fargo Bank. Today, federal antitrust officials approved the $12-billion deal, which means an uncertain future for hundreds of Wachovia employees in the region. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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City's emergency prep efforts recruit universities
October 10, 2008
Philadelphia officials are looking to universities to assist in preparing for disasters. Today the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Preparedness is joining professors from around the country to discuss how to use academic theory in disaster planning. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Consumer Reports
Avoid costly confusion and loss of service from conversion to digital television signals
October 10, 2008
With the switch to all-digital TV coming in February, cable companies seem to be capitalizing on confusion about the transition as a chance to boost the bills of cable customers. So says Consumer Reports Electronics Editor Paul Reynolds.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin
Could economic downturn put the brakes on building in Philly?
October 10, 2008
Building projects in Philadelphia could be the next casualty of the faltering economy and credit crisis. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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 Photo Caption: New Philadelphia Police Sergeants
Slain officer promoted along with 11 other new Sargeants
October 10, 2008
Twelve members of the Philadelphia Police Department have been promoted to the rank of sergeant. Among them was the posthumous promotion of Officer Patrick McDonald who was killed in the line of duty last month. The promotion was the first of its kind in the history of the department. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Captions: Mayor Nutter with Pat McDonald's family (left), and Police Chief Ramsey with Pat Mc Donald's parents (right).
Mayor touts job expansion by city company
October 10, 2008
The city of Philadelphia is proud about securing a major financial company's nod to expand in town. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
Photo Caption: Aberdeen U.S. CEO with Mayor Michael Nutter at announcement of job moves to Center City
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More information:
Read more and comment about this story on It's Our City: The Flip Side of City's Latest Job Acquisition Announcement
Temple students face eviction as North Philly neighborhoods strike back
October 9, 2008
Some students at Temple University have received warnings from the city that they may be evicted. The city's zoning code makes much off-campus student housing illegal. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Photo Caption: The Phillies Phanatic stopped traffic earlier today to prepare fans for the National League Championship Series
Phillies Fans go Phanatical at afternoon rally
October 9, 2008
Phillies fever is sweeping the City of Brotherly Love and it's turning people red with hope of a trip to the World Series. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Join in the fun on WHYY's sports blog, Unobstructed View: Let's get ready to rumble!
In face of utility company opposition, Rendell considers continuing caps on electric rates
October 9, 2008
Governor Rendell says he may extend rate cap on electricity prices in the Commonwealth, if negotiations with utility companies on the issue do not progress. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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Tough economic times make open space preservation difficult in NJ
October 9, 2008
Although funding for open space in New Jersey will dry up by June, environmentalists say there are still ways to preserve land amid tough economic times. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Schools with "temporary" charters seek decision from School District
October 9, 2008
A group of aspiring Philadelphia charter schools called for the School District to release them from what they described as "bureaucratic limbo." District officials said that a decision on the permanent status of those schools will have to wait. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Deplorable conditions at city nursing home sparks protest
October 9, 2008
Members of the city's disabled community came to City Hall complaining about conditions at the Philadelphia Nursing Home. WHYY's Tom MacDonald was there.
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Nutter appoints LGBT advisory panel
October 9, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter has appointed members to a panel who will advise him on issues in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Work rules at issue in contract talks between teachers and district
October 9, 2008
There have been no talks for the past month between the union representing Philadelphia public school teachers and the School District. Another session is expected this week. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports that the two sides are still miles apart.
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Photo Caption: Mayor Nutter with finance team Chief of Staff Clay Armbrister, Managing Director Camille Barnett, Budget Director Stephen Agostini, (not pictured: Finance Director Rob Dubow)
Earlier city deficit projections appear to be rosy compared to latest picture
October 9, 2008
Another day, another development in the global economic crisis. The European central banks are offering $120 billion to prop up lending between banks but investor enthusiasm for that move was tempered by the ongoing credit crisis. The Bush administration is considering taking ownership stakes in some banks to deal with the credit crunch. On the local front, Philadelphia city government coffers are dwindling. Mayor Michael Nutter painted a new picture of shrinking city revenues announcing yesterday that the city's budget deficit for the next five years will be well beyond the $450 million that he projected in September. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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More information:
It's Our Money: Ben Waxman explains consequences of credit crunch for city finances
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Hopes for innovative Philly teachers contract fade as time passes
October 8, 2008
About six weeks have passed since Philadelphia school officials and representatives for the Philadelphia teacher's union last sat down for face-to-face contract talks. The two sides will meet later this week, but some observers worry that it's already too late to carve out a truly innovative deal. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PA offers some low-cost help to local gov'ts for road repairs
October 8, 2008
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is offering assistance to local municipalities in fixing their roads. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says the assistance comes in the form of education.
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Payback time: New Orleans recognizes Philly's Katrina aid
October 8, 2008
The City of Brotherly Love welcomed refugees from Hurricane Katrina three years ago. Now a group of ambassadors from the Crescent City came to town spreading some New Orleans charm and seeking partnerships for the future. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Private firm offers rehab in new facility for short-term prisoners
October 8, 2008
A new detention facility is officially open in Philadelphia. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says this one is run by a private company and is much different from the other city jails.
Photo Caption: Hoffman Hall Alumni Coordinator Altorice Frazier
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Healthy eating advocates lobby Council for menu labeling
October 8, 2008
Teams of nutrition supporters will be blanketing City Hall today. National and local advocates from the "Label That Menu" campaign will be visiting City Council members as they try to build support for a bill requiring fast food restaurants to post complete calorie counts for all their products. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Blood on the rise on Delaware highways
October 8, 2008
Motorcycle accidents in Delaware are on the rise so some highway safety campaigns are aiming to save lives. WHYY's Stella Payne has more.
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Business lessons from "the happiest place on earth"
October 8, 2008
Former Disney executive Dennis Snow has seen Goofy and Mickey taking a "smoking" break at Disney World and venting about annoying guests. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with Snow about his management techniques that create a place for constructive criticism and a more positive work atmosphere which ultimately create better customer service.
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City's environmental efforts continue with new sustainable food program
October 7, 2008
Tonight the city unveils its new Food Charter at Center City's Reading Terminal Market. The Food Charter creates a framework for improving food access and sustainability, along with the region's health, economy and environment. The story from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
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Safety plan for one of city's most dangerous roads announced
October 7, 2008
Today officials announced the start of a vehicle and pedestrian safety campaign for Roosevelt Boulvevard in Northeast Philadelphia. The Boulevard carries nearly 100,000 vehicles every day, and officials say many drivers treat the 12-lane, 12-mile stretch of road more like a highway than a city street that they share with bicyclists and pedestrians. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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As stockmarket down another 500, advice for near retirees
October 7, 2008
Downturns in the stockmarket have retirees and people preparing to retire worried. WHYY's Tom MacDonald spoke to a financial advisor who says this is a time to think about your future choices.
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City to engage in home fire drills tonight
October 7, 2008
Sirens will sound throughout the City of Philadelphia tonight. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says they are a signal to execute a home fire drill. In this report, MacDonald talks to Commissioner Lloyd Ayers who has some fire prevention and escape tips for city's residents.
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New Jersey legislators differ on effects of economic downturn
October 7, 2008
Both the Assembly and the Senate Budget Committees met Monday but not to talk about the budget even though Governor Jon Corzine said last week that the state will have to cut more after the bailout bill was decided in Congress. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports it may be longer before the state takes action.
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Home foreclosure help continues to stall in New Jersey Assembly
October 7, 2008
Legislation to help foreclosures in the state may have already come through with the Save New Jersey Homes Act. But Assembly member Bonnie Watson Coleman says even more must be done. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports on Coleman's bill that has languished in the Assembly for six months.
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Alleged romantic affair between City Councilman, aide sparks ethics questions
October 7, 2008
Questions continue to circulate about an aide to City Councilman W. Wilson Goode, Jr. and her boss. Tom MacDonald reports that a political watchdog group — The Committee of Seventy - is calling for an investigation. Despite this, Council doesn't seem to be in a rush to investigate one of their own.
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Wachovia an example of "survival of the fittest" in banking industry
October 7, 2008
The fight for Wachovia is a sign that a new round of consolidation in banking is underway. WHYY's Tom MacDonald talked to one local finance professor who says it's a fight for survival.
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Philly tour guides safe from history tests - for now
October 6, 2008
A federal judge has blocked a Philadelphia law that would require all tour guides to be certified by the city. Opponents of the law won a six-month extension before it goes into effect. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Legislators talk about tax increases as state faces enormous budget deficit
October 6, 2008
Some Pennsylvania lawmakers are warning of a tax increase to address a budget deficit that could approach $3 billion dollar this fiscal year. As WHYY's Jen Rehill reports, such a deficit would far eclipse the previous record set over 15 years ago.
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Public access television closer to reality in Philadelphia
October 6, 2008
Philadelphia's Public Access Corporation has met for the first time. WHYY's Tom MacDonald says it's a meeting a quarter century in the making.
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Wells, Citi battle over Wachovia
October 6, 2008
As Wachovia Bank continues to struggle under the weight of some poor past decisions, a new fight has begun between two of the financial industry's biggest firms. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports it could be sliced up and parceled out to the two competitors if an agreement can't be reached.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
New facility at Penn Health makes health care more customer friendly
October 6, 2008
The Penn Health System has a new center. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com with more on that story.
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Wintertime tips for saving energy and money
October 6, 2008
Even though the weather doesn't feel like it fall is here and winter is coming around the corner. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has a few energy saving tips from a local utility.
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Houses passes bailout, Sestak warns of further "bumps"
October 3, 2008
After a failed house vote Monday and days of negotiation, the House gave final approval to the government's $700 billion bailout of failing financial institutions this afternoon. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Philly welcomes landscape architects for "green" convention
October 3, 2008
Landscape architects from across the world are heading to the Pennsylvania Convention Center for their annual gathering, which runs through Tuesday. The focus this year is "green" -- including topics from green roofs and tree selection, to municipal storm water management, and promoting public health through community planning. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Discovering a faster way to the Phillies
October 3, 2008
A hidden mass transit gem in Philadelphia isn't getting enough business. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Around the blogosphere:
SEPTA Watch: Go Phils!
Atrios: If You Build Acres Of Parking, They Will Drive
Market Watch Press Release: SEPTA to Provide Enhanced Broad Street Subway Service to Phillies Playoff Games
PA legislators pushing for tougher sentences
October 3, 2008
A group of area lawmakers is calling for tougher sentencing regulations to keep violent offenders behind bars. It's part of a wave of law-and-order proposals that follows the recent death of a police officer at the hands of a repeat offender who was out on parole. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PA election officials take the vote to overseas soldiers
October 3, 2008
Pennsylvania's Secretary of State has spent most of the week traveling overseas in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait to make sure the Commonwealth's enlisted personnel can vote in the upcoming election. Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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NJ takes steps to shut down diploma mills
October 3, 2008
Even though Freehold Superintendent James Wasser's faux Ph.D. was discovered months ago, the dispute continues at the State House. Now Senators Dick Codey and Jennifer Beck are trying to make sure educators in the state are getting their diplomas from accredited universities. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Philly D.A. nets two with insurance fraud unit
October 3, 2008
Two are facing charges in unrelated insurance fraud cases. Tom MacDonald reports that the arrests include one suspect who promoted herself from paralegal to lawyer.
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NJ Republican questions state's investment practices
October 3, 2008
Republicans in Congress may have become notorious this week for conservative economic theories and hands-off approaches. But that has not stopped State Senator Joe Pennacchio from weighing in on recent state investments — and losses — in Lehman Brothers. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
As some banks close doors, others planning grand openings
October 3, 2008
Despite the faltering economy, two specialty banks are planning openings in Philadelphia. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Controller Butkovitz has bleak forecast for city economy
October 3, 2008
Philadelphia's City Controller says the economic problems are hitting home in the city. Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Consumer Reports:
What you can do about environmentally damaging excessive packaging
October 3, 2008
Good things may come in small packages, but should small things come in huge ones? Some mail-order companies seem to think so and Consumer Reports wants to know why. Here's Consumer Reports Editor Kim Kleman.
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More information:
You can find out more at ConsumerReports.org
Mayor Nutter reads to kindergarten as part of literacy project
October 2, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter joined a kindergarten class in the city's Fairmount section today to highlight the importance of reading. He was hosted by a school that's getting extra help from the federal government in the fight to improve early childhood education. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Disabled seek state support for home care help
October 2, 2008
Disabled and elderly Pennsylvania residents want more say when it comes to choosing and managing their home care attendants. They're asking the state to establish a board to protect the rights of those requiring long-term care. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Phillies fans hopeful after playoff opening win
October 2, 2008
Philadelphia Phillies fans are riding a high after a win Wednesday, and WHYY's Tom MacDonald talked to many fans who want this feeling to continue right through to the World Series.
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Saying their final good byes: A city pays tribute to a fallen officer
October 2, 2008
It has been a difficult week for members of the Philadelphia Police Department. On Tuesday, the men and women in blue buried Sergeant Patrick McDonald, who was killed last week during a foot pursuit in North Philadelphia. Sergeant McDonald was the fourth officer to die in the line of duty in the last 12 months and city officials asked citizens to come out to the funeral to show their support for the grieving police force. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke with some Philadelphia-area residents who made the trip to Center City's Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
Captions: Ina and Venard Johnson (top), Dave Price (left), and Mary and Georgeann Marie Goodman (right). Download Audio (mp3)
Analysis: Local businesses feel the credit crunch
October 2, 2008
The ongoing drama over how to fix the nation's economic crisis could be resolved soon. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports that the resolution can't come soon enough for local builders and developers for whom credit is key.
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Nutter replaces embattled Minority Business Enterprise Council
October 2, 2008
Fulfilling an early campaign promise to abolish the dysfunctional and oft-criticized MBEC, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter has reorganized and repurposed several government entities to expand the use of minority contractors in the city. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports on a series of executive orders that are designed to help make the effort become reality.
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Local housing activists skeptical of new federal foreclosure aid program
October 1, 2008
A new federal program designed to keep families out of foreclosure officially starts today. It allows lenders to forgive some of the debt of borrowers faced with rising mortage payments. But local advocates say those borrowers will probably fare better with some of the region's homegrown programs. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Nutter announces new efforts at minority business aid
October 1, 2008
In an event that spilled into the hall outside the Mayor's Reception Room, a new era of minority participation in the City of Philadelphia began today. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Continuing conversation with Sen. Casey on economic crisis
October 1, 2008
Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey says a solution needs to be reached to free up borrowing. Here is more about Tom MacDonald's conversation with Senator Casey regarding the ongoing financial crisis.
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Bethlehem, PA to borrow big for security cameras
October 1, 2008
Surveillance cameras may be going up in the city of Bethlehem next year. A $3 million bond measure is going before City Council to pay for a network of cameras in public parks and streets. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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DHS goes to the people with series of town hall meetings
October 1, 2008
The Philadelphia Department of Human Services is beginning a series of town hall meetings tonight. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that the effort is designed to give the agency a feel for needed changes and improve its beleaguered image in the eyes of the community.
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City mourns fallen officer
September 30, 2008
Today the city mourns the death of Police Officer Patrick McDonald, who was shot during a foot pursuit last week in North Philadelphia. Earlier today citizens, police officers, and officials joined family and friends of Officer McDonald for his funeral at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Viewing for officer McDonald recalls his Northeast Philly roots
September 30, 2008
Thousands of Philadelphians are expected to turn out to honor Officer Patrick McDonald at his funeral in downtown Philadelphia today. Monday night the officer was remembered at a viewing near his alma mater of Archbishop Ryan High School in Northeast Philadelphia. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there.
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Governor calls for parole board review
September 30, 2008
In the wake of Officer McDonald's death, questions are being asked about the shooter who was released after serving 10 years of a 12-year sentence. The murder prompted members of the police to call for a review of the sentences handed down by Philadelphia's judicial system, and the decisions made by the Commonwealth's parole board. On Monday, the president of the police union and the Police Commissioner called for a moratorium on the release of violent offenders until the parole board's actions are reviewed. Now Governor Ed Rendell has ordered a review of the state's parole board, and says he's waiting to see the results before making any drastic decisions. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Senator Casey says final deal should come soon for Wall St. bailout
September 30, 2008
Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey says he's seeing a light at the end of the financial bailout tunnel. Here is the first part of Tom MacDonald report on his conversation with the senator about a bailout timetable.
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City takes taxpayer-funded cars away from several employees
September 30, 2008
The City of Philadelphia is cutting down its vehicle fleet, and people who need to do business at City Hall and the Municipal Services Building will benefit. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Photocredit: AP Photos/Morry Gash
Quest for the World Series begins with the Brewers
September 30, 2008
The Philllies are in their second post season in as many years. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with Phillies President and General Partner Dave Montgomery on the eve of the playoffs against the Milwaukee Brewers.
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Free Library goes green
September 29, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter cut a green ribbon earlier on Monday, officially unveiling the first green roof on a city-owned building. Made up of 5,000 square feet on the roof of the Free Library's central building on Vine Street, the green roof includes 100 cubic feet of soil and more than 5,400 plants. More from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
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Funding to combat domestic violence comes through for city
September 29, 2008
A grant designed to help Philadelphia police deal with domestic violence situations has been extended. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Area Congressional delegation part of debate over bailout
September 27, 2008
Congress continues to debate the terms of a $700 billion federal bailout of some of the nation's largest financial institutions. This week, another failing bank, Washington Mutual, was saved from liquidation by J.P. Morgan, which bought the company for $1.9 billion. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Court to Milton: Go directly to jail
September 27, 2008
Former State Senator Milton Street has been sent to jail immediately to start serving his two and a half year sentence for not filing his taxes. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports that along with jail time, Street faces the prospect of having to pay back an enormous restitution amount.
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Philabundance, other food banks suffer through tough economy
September 27, 2008
The economic crisis is not just hitting Wall Street. It also means local food banks are feeling the pinch. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports on just how bad it is getting.
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State court denies City attempt to regulate firearms
September 26, 2008
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court has ruled that state law pre-empts the city from passing its own gun laws. Earlier today the court released its decision on a lawsuit brought last fall by Philadelphia City Councilmembers. They claimed the state general assembly created a "state of danger" by refusing to act on city gun ordinances they had passed that required state approval. The ordinances require the reporting of lost or stolen weapons and limit gun purchases to one a month. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Milton Street begins sentence
September 26, 2008
The brother of a former mayor is in federal prison for failing to pay his income taxes. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Aide to Councilman Goode to apologize for accusations of racism
September 26, 2008
Forgive and forget. That's the sentiment of Philadelphia City Councilman Wilson Goode, Jr. Goode's legislative aide has been embroiled in controversy after referring to a television news reporter as a member of the Ku Klux Klan and calling his station racist. WHYY's Paul Jackson spoke with Goode who now says his aide intends to apologize.
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Rendell not hopeful for turnpike lease, transit funding
September 26, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell says he's not giving up on his plan to lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike, even though Republican leaders who control the State Senate have said they won't move the legislation this year. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports.
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Rendell orders review of release of cop killer
September 26, 2008
City and state officials continue to mourn the death of Philadelphia Police Officer Patrick McDonald who was killed earlier this week. Governor Ed Rendell says his office is reviewing why the man accused of the officer's murder and wounding of another officer, was released from prison early. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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United Way's new CEO moves forward despite uncertain economic times
September 26, 2008
United Way's annual campaign is underway. Hundreds of non-profit organizations will benefit from grants that will focus on improving education and health care in the region. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with new CEO Jill Michal.
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New Jersey bills seek to create "business friendly" state
September 26, 2008
It was mere coincidence that bills before the Assembly yesterday were meant to aid the state's economy. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports that didn't stop legislators from promoting or passing the bills.
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Rendell wants a new "New Deal" with bailout
September 26, 2008
Governor Rendell is calling on Congress to enact a $100 billion dollar economic stimulus package for the American economy in addition to the $700 billion bailout for Wall Street. Jen Rehill reports from the Harrisburg.
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Consumer Reports:
How much can a used car save you?
September 26, 2008
In these tough economic times, many car buyers are searching for the best value. As Consumer Reports Automotive Editor, Rik Paul, tells us the real values will be found among used cars.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Boutique health care means great service - if you can afford it
September 26, 2008
Doctors in private practice sometimes consider changing the way they do business. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Philly City Council ends a newsworthy, if not productive, week
September 25, 2008
Philadelphia City Councilman Wilson Goode, Jr. spoke for several minutes today in the Council's last session of the week. His topic: the recent controversy with one of his aides. Last week, Latrice Bryant held up signs during a session of Council accusing a Fox 29 reporter of racism. This week, Goode took a jab at the press in general. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Governor Rendell skeptical of bailout ideas
September 25, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell was quick to react to a deal to bail out the nation's financial system. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Gun violence task force cracks down on straw purchasers
September 25, 2008
City and state law enforcement officials are calling the gun violence task force a success. Today, District Attorney Lynne Abraham and Attorney General Tom Corbett announced since it began in December 2006, the task force has opened more than 700 investigations involving the illegal transfer of firearms, made 216 arrests, and seized 450 firearms. Whyy's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Philly Fugitives turn themselves in
September 25, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter has called for an investigation after the Tuesday afternoon murder of Philadelphia police officer Patrick McDonald. The Mayor says he wants to know why the man accused of killing officer McDonald was on the streets despite outstanding warrants for his arrest. Last week 1,200 non-violent fugitives turned themselves in during Fugitive Safe Surrender. The U.S. Marshalls program set up makeshift courtrooms inside a South Philadelphia church. The goal was to clear some of the city's 38,000 outstanding misdemeanor warrants. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke with some of the fugitives who turned themselves in at the True Gospel Tabernacle church.
Volunteers welcome fugitives to the church, and one fugitive, Tiffany Wilder, turns herself in.
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NJ Cong. Andrews has his own federal bailout plan
September 25, 2008
The proposed $700 billion federal bailout of failing financial institutions has Congress calling for more oversight on Wall Street. But one local congressman is putting his own plan forward. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Philly: Harbor a fugitive, go to jail
September 25, 2008
The City of Philadelphia is planning to step up prosecutions of people who harbor fugitives after Tuesday's slaying of a city police officer. Tom MacDonald reports.
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Delaware coast braces for severe weekend storms
September 25, 2008
According to weather reports, up to 4 to 5 inches of rain could fall on Delaware by the end of the weekend. For low-lying areas that means the possibility of flooding and contaminated water supplies. As WHYY's Bill Cook reports, the National Guard is standing by, ready to take fresh water where it's needed.
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Commissioner Ramsey, cops deal with death of colleague
September 25, 2008
After the death of one of their own Tuesday, Philadelphia's Police Commissioner says tempers are short and nerves are frayed. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Old cell phones help against domestic violence
September 25, 2008
Groups fighting domestic violence in Philadelphia are looking for a little assistance and a gadget gathering dust in your house could make a lifesaving difference. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports on the efforts of one Pennsylvania state senator who is herself a former victim of domestic violence.
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Corzine pushes for greater campaign finance limits in New Jersey
September 25, 2008
The Clean Election program has been abandoned but that has not stopped Governor Jon Corzine and other legislators from trying to control wheeling and dealing inside the State House. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports from Trenton.
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PA legislature takes steps to insure smooth election in November
September 25, 2008
The Pennsylvania House State Government Committee is holding a meeting later today on Pennsylvania's preparations for the November 4th election. They will seek to solve any problem areas that need to be remedied now. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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As ban on offshore oil drilling ends, local Dems regroup for new alternative energy strategies
September 25, 2008
The decades old ban on offshore oil drilling has quietly expired. Now, Democrats who had supported the ban are trying to make the best of the situation. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov spoke to one congressman who thinks the onus should be on the oil companies to drill in areas already open to them.
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Frankford's black community seeks answers in shooting of 14-year-old robbery suspect
September 25, 2008
A candlelight vigil will take place tonight to remember a boy shot and killed by a retired policeman a month ago. The African-American community in Frankford is threatening legal action against the Philadelphia Police Department for what they say was an inadequate investigation. WHYY Peter Crimmins reports.
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Continuing coverage of police officer death:
Cop killer walked the streets despite extensive record
September 24, 2008
Philadelphia city officials cannot believe why a man who killed Officer Patrick McDonald was on the streets of the city. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Mayor Nutter expresses outrage over cop death
September 24, 2008
The Mayor of Philadelphia is continuing to vent his anger in the killing of a Philadelphia Police Officer and the wounding of a second. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Murder of cop reignites gun legislation debate
September 24, 2008
The murder of 30-year-old highway patrolman Officer Patrick McDonald has some gun control advocates and criminologists pointing their fingers at lawmakers. McDonald is the fifth Philadelphia police officer to give his life in the line of duty since 2006. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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PA state officials look to shore up state against financial market woes
September 24, 2008
As Congress considers ways to rescue out the nation's troubled financial markets, Pennsylvania's Banking Secretary and state Treasurer are making plans to help the Commonwealth weather the storm. For WHYY, Jen Rehill reports from the Harrisburg.
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PennDOT faces winter short of salt
September 24, 2008
A nationwide shortage of road salt doesn't have PennDOT worried. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Corzine, NJ Republicans debate job creation strategies
September 24, 2008
State legislators are trying to control collateral damage caused by last week's economic turmoil. While both sides of the aisle agree new jobs need to be created, some say high paying private sector employment is more important than new blue collar jobs. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Philly cop gunned down in the line of duty
September 23, 2008
A Philadelphia Police Officer has been shot in the line of duty today. Officer Patrick McDonald, of the Philadelphia Highway Patrol, was killed in an exchange of gunfire in a North Philadelphia neighborhood. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Convention Center expansion spurs new wave of hotel building
September 23, 2008
The expansion of the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City is prompting renovations to existing hotels, and a boom in new hotel projects. According to new numbers from the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association, Philadelphia hotels have recently spent, or are budgeted to spend, more than $231 million in renovations and new hotel developments. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Ben Franklin paint job nears completion
September 23, 2008
Crews are out on the Ben Franklin Bridge putting the final touches on its $87 million dollar paint job. The project sandblasted more than 25 layers of lead paint put on over the last 80 years. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Bank bailout or social programs? Both?
September 23, 2008
A group of Pennsylvania community leaders want Congress to expand the bank bailout to include social programs. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has more.
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Orchestra ends neighborhood concert season at City Hall
September 23, 2008
The Philadelphia Orchestra has a unique venue for its final neighborhood concert tonight. Tom MacDonald has the details.
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Philly Ex-Offender office expanding services
September 23, 2008
The Mayor's Office for the Re-Entry of Ex-Offenders is expanding its network of services. The office that helps ex-convicts re-integrate into society is helping local organizations attract grant money. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Corzine convenes summit to deal with New Jersey's stake in economic crisis
September 23, 2008
In a closed-door meeting, New Jersey's Governor Jon Corzine spoke with business leaders, academic experts, and labor organizations around the state as a way to try and reduce the effects of last week's economic downfall. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Dems in PA legislature push for confirmation of top environmental official
September 23, 2008
Supporters of acting Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger are pressing the Senate to move forward with the confirmation process. Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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Phila. homeless voting bloc gears up for election
September 23, 2008
Philadelphia's homeless community marched through the streets of Philadelphia in an effort to get out the vote for the presidential election. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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EZpass makes it EZ to go after scofflaws in NJ
September 23, 2008
The South Jersey Transportation Authority is proactively going after EZpass drivers who do not pay tolls on the Atlantic City Expressway. Some delinquent accounts add up to tens of thousands of dollars. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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New Jersey legislature explores effects of economic collapse on Garden State
September 22, 2008
Playing catch up, legislators in the state's Labor Committee met today and tried to better understand how last week's events will affect New Jersey's economy. After testimony from experts and local leaders the results were less than optimistic. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Congressman Murphy proposes scholarship for children of fallen police, firefighters
September 22, 2008
A Philadelphia-area congressman wants to establish a scholarship program for the children of slain police and firefighters nationwide. The bill is named for the fallen police officer at the heart of the Mumia Abu-Jamal case. WHYY's Tom Mac Donald reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Philly autism treatment center expands
September 22, 2008
A center for autistic children in northwest Philadelphia has expanded meaning a faster road to treatment for many autistic children and their families. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Inquirer packaged-DVD on "radical Islam" attracts concern of Human Rights Commission
September 22, 2008
A controversial documentary DVD that was distributed as a newspaper insert in the Philadelphia Inquirer is causing concern among some Arab-Americans. The 1-hour video draws parallels between Radical Islam and Nazism. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Safe Surrender the beginning of long slog through warrants
September 22, 2008
According to city officials, last week's church-based surrender program successfully rounded up hundreds of fugitives. It's only the beginning of the effort to clear out the thousands backlogged arrest warrants. WHYY's Tom MacDonald reports.
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Trouble for Philabundance, other charities hits hard on city's children
September 22, 2008
As Americans struggle to cut expenses in the troubled economy, charities are seeing fewer donations, and experts say things won't be getting better soon. The hunger relief agency Philabundance announced last week that it will be cutting its program to provide milk for after school and daycare agencies due to fewer donations. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Seniors in Delaware could lose their rides
September 21, 2008
People in Kent County, Delaware who rely on a certain government-supported transportation service could eventually have to find another way to get around. WHYY's Amy Szutowicz has more on cuts to a program that serves seniors.
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Flooding at Rehoboth attracts state attention
September 21, 2008
Flooding is causing major problems for people living along Rehoboth Bay in Dewey Beach. Officials are prepared to spend thousands of dollars to repair the town's storm drainage system in the next two years. WHYY's Stella Payne reports.
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Councilmembers Goode, Kelly trade barbs over minority representation requirement
September 20, 2008
Philadelphia City Council could have some rocky weeks ahead as the fall session is underway. City lawmakers have to address a mounting 5-year projected deficit that is hitting 450-million dollars. There's also some resistance to ethics reform and a proposal to eliminate one of the guaranteed Republican at-large council seats. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports on a particular battle between two at-large council members.
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Philly Council introduces cell phone ban for more than just cars
September 20, 2008
Drivers in Philadelphia may have to hold off on text-messaging, emailing or speaking on a cell phone without a head-set. A bill introduced in City Council on Thursday would regulate cell phone use in the city. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports that drivers wouldn't be the only cell users affected.
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Transgender lawsuit could end gender ID on SEPTA passes
September 19, 2008
SEPTA may have to remove gender-identifying stickers from TransPasses. A case of a transgender person trying to get on a bus has escalated into a power struggle between SEPTA and the city. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Senator Casey: Economic crisis "worst in a generation"
September 19, 2008
A Pennsylvania senator says quick action must be taken to avoid a bank collapse. WHYY's Tom MacDonald caught up with Senator Bob Casey at 30th Street Station after a briefing with the Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernacke and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson.
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PA lawmakers prepare for budget crisis of their own
September 19, 2008
A state revenue shortfall in the wake of national economic uncertainty has some lawmakers concerned about meeting state expenses this year. For WHYY, Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg on their plans.
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Fugitive Safe Surrender sees some success
September 19, 2008
The conversion of a church into a surrender mecca is working. WHYY's Tom MacDonald has an update on the Fugitive Safe Surrender Initiative inside the True Gospel Tabernacle Church at 16th and Mifflin Streets.
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Huge Mexico-Philly crystal meth ring busted
September 19, 2008
Pennsylvania's state Attorney General has announced the break-up of a multimillion dollar crystal methamphetamine ring which operated between Mexico and Philadelphia. As WHYY's Paul Jackson reports the alleged traffickers smuggled their drugs in most unusual containers.
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Phila. City Council off to contentious start over ethics legislation
September 19, 2008
It's a bumpy start for Philadelphia City Council, which began its fall session Thursday with a full plate. Council will have to contend with a newly discovered budget deficit, wrestle with the casino controversy, and take up a package of ethics bills that may not be so popular. As WHYY's Susan Phillips reports one victim of a possible backlash against Councilman Frank Rizzo's ethics legislation could be his airing of problems with police and fire communications equipment.
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Senator Casey pushing for aid to Iraqi refugees
September 19, 2008
Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey wants the federal government to do more to help refugees from the Iraq War. Thursday the senator introduced legislation that is intended to help millions of Iraqis help themselves. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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State legislator takes up foreclosure assistance bill
September 19, 2008
Pennsylvania homeowners facing foreclosure could get substantial help from the state to avoid that outcome, if a new measure before the state House of Representatives is enacted. For WHYY, Jen Rehill reports from the Capitol.
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Local Business with Philadelphia Business Journal's Frank Devlin:
Planned transformation for West Market corridor
September 19, 2008
More retail space is planned in Center City Philadelphia... without a new building going up. The new space could turn a section of the city that's very busy in the daytime into a popular evening destination. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Consumer Reports:
Are your pensions and Social Security safe from creditors?
September 19, 2008
If you're buried in debt or worried you might be soon you may be wondering if creditors can seize your pension funds to repay what you owe. Consumer Reports Money Adviser Senior Project Editor Mandy Walker has the answer.
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For more information check the Consumer Reports website.
Disabled in PA oppose new standards for assisted living facilities
September 18, 2008
Some disabled Pennsylvanians may be forced to live in non-accessible rooms, if new regulations from the Department of Public Welfare are adopted. As Jen Rehill reports from the Capitol, the House Committee on Aging held a public hearing on Thursday on proposed standards for assisted living residences.
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Wall St. crisis forces Wachovia to look for options
September 18, 2008
Hoping to deliver a counter-punch to the global credit crisis, the Federal Reserve today pumped billions of dollars into financial markets in the U.S. and abroad. But as WHYY's Paul Jackson reports, the roller coaster ride on Wall Street has already had major implications for the Philadelphia region's largest financial institutions.
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New SDP plan for charter schools concerns advocates
September 18, 2008
Supporters of Philadelphia's charter schools aren't thrilled with a new oversight plan from the School District of Philadelphia. They worry that district employees won't be able to avoid what they see as a basic conflict of interest. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Nutter joins Council during opening session
September 18, 2008
Philadelphia City Council began their fall session today with a visit from Mayor Michael Nutter... who handed out lapel pins. Nutter will be giving Council a revised budget next month in an effort to plug an unexpected deficit. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Hunting the wild pig in New Jersey
September 18, 2008
Wild hogs were once only a problem in about a dozen states, but now there are feral swine in 39 even New Jersey. They're living in the Pinelands in a rural part of Gloucester County. But the state wants them out and has called in the "Feds" to get rid of the pigs. Eugene Sonn has the story.
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Council back in session finds major budget shortfall on its agenda...
September 18, 2008
Philadelphia City Council is back in session today. Council will have much on its plate this session including the work to close the newly discovered $450 million dollar city budget gap over the next five years. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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...along with bills on cell phones, ethics and student behavior
September 18, 2008
In addition to the budget shortfall, Council will take up several bills, including a ban on cell phone use while driving, a package of ethics bills, and an effort to get Temple students living off campus to behave better. WHYY's Susan Phillips has the story.
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School District, Union continue wrangling over new contract
September 18, 2008
With new one-year contracts in hand for three of its five unions, officials at the Philadelphia School District say they want to strike a similar deal with the 16,000-member teachers union. But the teachers say they're still holding out for a long term deal. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PA constitution one step closer to a re-write
September 18, 2008
Pennsylvania may have a state constitutional convention if any of three bills approved Wednesday by a Senate Committee are made law. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from the Capitol.
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"Empowerment schools" get special attention of Philly School District
September 17, 2008
The Philadelphia School District says it has a plan to raise performance at its worst performing schools. Starting tomorrow, district officials will be paying the first of many visits to dozens of schools that have failed to meet state academic targets for five years or more. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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"Safe Surrender" nets several fugitives on first day
September 17, 2008
Fugitives have been heading into a South Philadelphia church today, hoping to settle up their legal issues. Today through Saturday, city officials and religious leaders are welcoming people with outstanding non-violent warrants to a makeshift courtroom set up inside the True Gospel Tabernacle Church at 16th and Mifflin streets. Officials say around 100 fugitives came to the church in just the first few hours this morning many leaving with new court dates. The story from WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler.
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Port official: no connection between higher tolls, decreased traffic
September 17, 2008
Just a week and a half after an increase in bridge tolls from 3 to 4 dollars on four area bridges, the CEO of the Delaware River Port Authority says traffic volume has gone down. But, he says, it's probably not because of higher tolls. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports.
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Nutter announces effort to get seniors the benefits coming to them
September 17, 2008
Thousands of older Philadelphians will be getting letters and phone calls from Mayor Michael Nutter in the upcoming weeks, urging them to sign up for state and federal benefits. The initiative targets residents who are missing out on prescription drug benefits, food stamps, and property tax rebates. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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To learn more about BenePhilly or how to enroll in benefit programs, please contact the City or call one of the numbers below:
BenePhilly assistance: 800-236-2194, M-F 9am-5pm
Food Stamps assistance: 215-430-0556, (Coalition Against Hunger Hotline)
Economic Stimulus checks: 866-234-2942, (Deadline is October 15; IRS Hotline)
Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): 800-692-7462.
PA takes up crusade against employment of illegal immigrants
September 17, 2008
A Pennsylvania lawmaker has introduced legislation that would crack down on illegal immigrants and their employers. Opponents say national immigration reform, not piecemeal state-by-state legislation, is needed. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Opening the legislation bottleneck in PA legislator
September 17, 2008
A resolution in being introduced in the House of Representatives that will change the way bills are introduced... in the House of Representatives. State Representative David Steil of Bucks County is proposing new rules to loosen the legislative bottleneck. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Anti-puppy mill legislation gains momentum in Harrisburg
September 16, 2008
Major's changes to the state law regarding commercial dog breeders could be approved before the end of the month. Some of the dog owners spoke with WHYY's Jen Rehill who reports that the bill is expected to pass the House, but until today its fate in the Senate was uncertain.
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As hundreds of dogs and their owners rallied today at the state for more humane treatment of animals at large commercial kennels, the sides of the debate outline their positions. Rehill also reports on the major changes to Pennsylvania's dog law and what each side wants from the process.
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Murder suspect on the lam for a decade returns to Philly custody today
September 16, 2008
After a decade on the loose, a murder suspect is expected to be taken into custody in philadelphia today. Former Montgomery County resident David Nam fled to South Korea in 1998 to avoid trial for the murder of an elderly Olney man. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Innovative supermarket for 31st and Girard to be unveiled tonight
September 16, 2008
Communities around 31st street and Girard Avenue in North Philadelphia may be moving a step closer to getting a grocery store in their neighborhood after years of trying. Tonight architects who volunteered their time will unveil a final and very dramatic design. "Infill Philadelphia" is a five-year initiative of the Community Design Collaborative. It provides community groups with pro bono design services from a network of 700 local archiects, planners, and design professionals. Check back here for Elizabeth Fiedler's full story about this new development for Girard Avenue, available later this morning.
Discussing the supermarket plans (from left) Community Deisgn Collaborative Executive Director Beth Miller, Girard Coalition interim Executive Director Angel Coleman, Westrum Development Vice President John Dean, Interface Studio architect Brian Phillips.
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Nutter joins other PA mayors for gun legislation
September 16, 2008
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter will be joining mayors from seven other eastern and central Pennsylvania cities who plan to introduce gun legislation. The mayors will gather in Reading, a smaller city with its share of gun violence, for the announcement. Their goal is modest: local laws requiring the reporting of lost and stolen weapons. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Regional banks mostly safe from Wall Street troubles
September 16, 2008
While financial institutions on Wall Street are going through hard times, experts say regional commercial banks are largely immune to their trouble. The smaller institutions are often better equipped to survive turbulent economic crises. In fact, according to one local economics professor, the current crisis could open the door to future opportunities. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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New poll: Citizens favor limits on presidential power
September 16, 2008
With just over six weeks remaining in the presidential campaign, a new survey from the National Constitution Center finds that Americans remain very cautious about granting presidents too much power. The Center released the survey to help kick off a new exhibit called "Headed to the White House" that opens this Wednesday. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PA makes overseas voting easier
September 15, 2008
The commonwealth of Pennsylvania has just made it a little easier for members of the military deployed overseas to vote in November's election. Jen Rehill files this report from the Harrisburg.
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More information about absentee voting is available at the State Department website votesPA.com
Nutter announces city's bike friendly efforts
September 15, 2008
During Bike Philly festivities over the weekend, Mayor Michael Nutter announced that the city would be installing 1400 new bicycle racks throughout Philadelphia. The mayor outlined a number of steps that the city will take to make the city more bicycle friendly. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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PA lawmakers get to work on very short session
September 15, 2008
Energy independence, government reforms and universal health care are just a few of the items on lawmaker's wish lists for the session which begins today. But as Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, it remains to be seen how much gets done in the short nine-day session before the election.
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Gallery architect: building is set for Foxwoods expansion upwards
September 15, 2008
Foxwoods officials say there's still a lot of work to be done, before deciding whether to locate a casino in Center City or stick with their original site along Delaware Riverfront. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke to the original architect of The Gallery mall. He says the building is ripe for high rise expansion if necessary.
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Pennsylvania and New Jersey set for separate trials of State Senators
September 15, 2008
In Philadelphia, jury selection in the federal corruption trial of Pennsylvania state Senator Vince Fumo is expected to wrap up today followed by opening statements. The powerful senator faces a 139-count indictment. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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While in Trenton, the corruption trial for NJ St. Sen. Bryant begins today after selection of a jury of ten women and seven men wrapped up in U.S. District Court. WHYY's Mary reports.
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Bidder to name new Giants Stadium pulls out
September 15, 2008
The Giants are already having trouble with bids for naming the new stadium. Allianz, a German based insurance company that helped fund Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime more than seventy years ago, may have been one of the top choices. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports Allianz is no longer in negotiations with the Giants owners and they say it has nothing to do with their past. Others in the community were ready with opposition to such a selection.
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Infant mortality decreasing in Delaware
September 15, 2008
Delaware mothers are giving birth to healthier babies. The First State previously ranked among the worst in infant mortality rates. But, as WHYY's Andrea Boyle reports, advocates hope that's a mantle the state will soon shed.
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Consumer Reports:
Choosing protection for your computer
September 15, 2008
When it comes to security software, it's best to look into a suite. Suites provide better overall protection against viruses, spyware, and spam and cost less than buying a full complement of stand-alone commercial programs. Consumer Reports Electronics Editor Paul Reynolds has more.
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Embattled PA higher ed. agency to be reorganized
September 13, 2008
The Pennsylvania State Auditor General says the IRS has given the green light to his proposal to shake up the state student loan agency. The agency was the subject of a blistering audit released earlier this week. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Delaware EMS team places 3rd in international competition
September 12, 2008
The Sussex County EMS Paramedics team returned today as 3rd place winner in a competition that drew teams from around the globe. WHYY's Stella Payne talked with the team about their impressive performance.
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Funeral for 3rd fallen Philly officer in 10 months
September 12, 2008
Police officers, firefighters, family and friends paid their respects to fallen police officer Isabel Nazario today. The 18-year police veteran killed in the line of duty was remembered at a funeral service at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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I-80 tolls rejected, Rendell pushes Turnpike lease again
September 12, 2008
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell is pushing state lawmakers to take a serious look at a $12.8 billion potential Turnpike lease. The federal government yesterday rejected the state's proposal to toll Interstate 80. That leaves a $450 million funding gap in the state's plan to raise funds for bridges, roads, and mass transportation. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Rendell, State Senate disagree on low-income health care plans
September 12, 2008
Governor Ed Rendell says expanding state health insurance to include more low-income Pennsylvanians is his number one priority this fall. But as Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg the Democratic Governor and his allies in the state House have very different ideas from the Republican Senate leaders on how to make that happen.
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Nutter puts education plan into action
September 12, 2008
The Philadelphia School District is hiring more than a hundred new special assistants to help parents keep their children in school. That's just one of a wide range of new initiatives announced last night by Mayor Michael Nutter, who wants to cut dropout rates, boost college attendance, and improve education across Philadelphia. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there.
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Philly budget hole may force layoffs
September 12, 2008
The same problems that have plagued the national economy are hitting Philadelphia government. Mayor Michael Nutter announced Thursday that the city faces a $450 million funding shortfall over the next five years because of lower than expected Business Privilege Tax revenues and poor performance by the city pension fund. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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It's Our Money blog: City faces $450 million shortfall
I-80 toll plan rejected, Turnpike lease recommended by Governor
September 12, 2008
The federal government is rejecting Pennsylvania's plan to add tolls to Interstate 80. As Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, Governor Ed Rendell says it's time to seriously consider leasing the Turnpike instead.
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Foxwoods to Center City gets mixed reception
September 12, 2008
The recent proposal to locate a slots parlor in Center City at The Gallery mall has community groups up in arms. But others say it could be a boon to the Market East business district. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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NJ State Senator puts foot down on lower drinking age idea
September 12, 2008
Montclair State University, Stevens Institute of Technology, and Drew University have joined with more than a hundred other schools across the country that want to lower the drinking age. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports Senator Dick Codey says he will not have it, not in his state.
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NJ emergency management expert: disaster preparedness is a mindset
September 12, 2008
National security is still on the minds of many seven years after 9/11. But how safe is New Jersey from a hurricane, terrorist attack, or biological weapon? WHYY's Mary Fuchs spoke to Hank Straub, a retired Air Force Colonel who now helps businesses prepare for natural or man-made disasters.
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More information:
BENS (Business Executives for National Security)
Philadelphia national leader on dealing with Foreclosures
September 12, 2008
There've been lots of efforts to deal with the housing crisis at the federal level, but those measures don't necessarily keep people in their homes. As WHYY's Alex Schmidt reports, the city of Philadelphia has been taking matters into its own hands.
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Chinatown activists plan for casino opposition
September 11, 2008
Community activists in Chinatown are already gearing up for a fight over a planned casino in Center City at The Gallery, even though the plan was announced just yesterday. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports that the Foxwoods casino and elected officials may have missed a crucial step again - consulting the neighborhoods.
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Guilty pleas in Boeing helicopter vandalism case
September 11, 2008
A Bucks County man faces jail time after pleading guilty to vandalizing an Army helicopter at a Boeing plant in Ridley Township last spring. The defendant was a disgruntled employee who chose the wrong place to vent his frustration. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Examining Philadelphia's disaster preparedness plan
September 11, 2008
Across the country, people are taking a moment today to remember the victims of September 11th, 2001. The tragic events prompted many cities to step up their emergency preparedness plans. Philadelphia officials responded to a report that made over 200 recommendations to improve preparedness by increasing the capacity of its Office of Emergency Management. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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More information:
To view the city's evacuation plan go to: www.Phila.Gov/ready
City's first responders memorialized at September 11th
September 11, 2008
Firefighters and first-response rescue workers were honored today at a ceremony marking the 7th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. WHYY's Peter Crimmins was there and has this report.
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9/11 Education Curriculum begins in NJ
September 11, 2008
Commemorating 9/11 comes in all different forms of monuments and memorials. And some say the best way to honor those who died is by telling stories and memories to those who may be too young to remember the days' events. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports on new curriculum for high school students that is meant to do just that.
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PECO: pay a little more now before you have to pay a lot more later
September 11, 2008
PECO energy wants Greater Philadelphia's electricity customers to pay a little more now in order to pay a little bit less later. The utility wants to help ease in the impact of electric rate deregulation, but officials with the Rendell administration say they're skeptical. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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Memories of 9/11 remain strong even as number of ceremonies dwindle
September 11, 2008
In memory of the attacks on September 11, 2001, firemen and other rescue workers will be honored in two ceremonies in Philadelphia today. There will be a procession from the Fireman's Hall Museum to the Betsy Ross House, and the Boy Scouts will honor Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers later in the afternoon. But on the 7th anniversary of the attacks, there are fewer memorials in the Greater Philadelphia region than in previous years. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Lawmakers reconsider multiple exemptions to PA indoor smoking ban
September 11, 2008
Approximately 700 businesses in Pennsylvania have applied for exemption from the state's indoor smoking ban, which went into effect today. Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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State agrees with advocates' on foster care problems
September 11, 2008
A new report from a Pennsylvania child advocacy group points to series of shortcomings in the foster care system. The Commonwealth's welfare department, doesn't dispute the findings. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports.
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Foxwoods could be on the move...
September 10, 2008
Slot machines could be ringing just a few blocks from Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and the site where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. City and state officials are working out a deal with Foxwoods Casino to relocate their planned slots parlor from the South Philadelphia Delaware waterfront to Center City. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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...but new site could come with its own controversy
September 10, 2008
As Foxwoods works out the details of a possible move to Center City with Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, they may find their new location to come with just as much resistance as the old. WHYY's Susan Phillips talked to one community organizer who compared the move to Chinatown's resistance to a new stadium for the Phillies.
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Residents seek more advanced notice of aerial mosquito spraying
September 10, 2008
Pennsylvania health and environmental officials stand behind their last minute decision last month to spray for mosquitoes to minimize the risk of West Nile Virus in suburban Philadelphia. WHYY's Jennifer Lynn reports a town meeting in Lower Merion Township on aerial spraying has Montgomery County residents calling for improved notification of spraying in the future.
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Report: PA has potential for 86,000 new "green" jobs
September 10, 2008
The country's manufacturing industries could be revived if the federal government invests in renewable energy sources, says a new report presented by two non-profit institutes. The report outlines a plan to stimulate the economy by investing $100 billion over a 2-year period in wind energy, solar power, biofuels and mass transit. Pennsylvania would be in line for a health chunk of that investment and the jobs that would come with it. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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More information:
Read or download the report Green Recovery - A Program to Create Good Jobs and Start Building a Low-Carbon Economy
-Political Economy Research Institute
-Center for American Progress
-Natural Resources Defense Council
End of electricity rate caps means big profits for utility companies
September 10, 2008
Gov. Ed Rendell says he's will intervene if Pennsylvania lawmakers don't act quickly enough to pass legislation to blunt the impact of rising electricity rates that are expected when state imposed rate caps expire in 2010. Rendell is responding to a misplaced internal communication from one utility company touting a potential new windfall. WHYY Paul Jackson reports.
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Fort Dix Six seek delay in trial
September 10, 2008
The trial of five men accused of plotting an attack on Fort Dix will begin as scheduled at the end of the month. Defense lawyers wanted to delay the federal trial because an expert witness for their clients is an army reservist who is being called up this month for active duty in Iraq. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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New Jersey GOP legislators propose plan for transportation, road woes
September 10, 2008
As the state scrambles to find a suitable transportation plan and fund state roads, Republican legislators are pointing the finger and the blame at Governor Jon Corzine. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Build here, build now: NJ Republicans make unusual suggestions for affordable housing sites
September 10, 2008
Nearly three hundred towns are suing the state over the Affordable Housing law, and now Republican legislators are making their own suggestions to the landmark bill that was supposed to end housing segregation in the state. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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More information:
NJ Council on Affordable Housing
My Central Jersey.com: Hunterdon assemblywoman to hold forum on state's revised affordable-housing rules
Lawmakers seek remedy for smoke ban loopholes
September 10, 2008
Pennsylvania's new indoor smoking ban goes into effect tomorrow. But as Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg, some lawmakers already want to rewrite the law.
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Taking a year off before college
September 10, 2008
The "Gap Year" is catching on among more students who want to take a break from academics and learn more about life before starting college. WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with Holly Bull, President of the Center for Interim Programs in Princeton and Lizzie Mulvey, starting at Princeton University after taking a year off following high school.
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Nutter tours school facility for former dropouts
September 9, 2008
Mayor Michael Nutter is touring traditional and alternative schools across the city this week to gain insight into how to improve the city's education system. Today Mayor Nutter stopped in to talk with some students at an E3 center in West Philadelphia. E3 Power Centers serve young people who have dropped out of school or who are returning from juvenile placement. The centers provide GED and job readiness preparation, and life skills like personal finance and anger management. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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PENNDOT paints grim picture of state's highways for legislators
September 9, 2008
PENNDOT presented a laundry list of projects to the The Pennsylvania House Transportation Committee, displaying pictures of deteriorating bridges and roadways in the Philadelphia area. As WHYY Paul Jackson reports, many of those projects may have to be delayed or even eliminated because of an unfolding highway funding crisis now facing the state.
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Muslim Philadelphia takes fight for headscarf to court
September 9, 2008
A Philadelphia police officer is continuing to fight for the right to wear a Muslim headscarf while on duty. Patrol Officer Kimberly Webb appeared in the U.S. Court of Appeals today to say her constitutional right of free speech and religious expression were violated when the Philadelphia police department did not approve her request to wear a hijab. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Lower Merion School District redistricting plan gets public hearing
September 9, 2008
Construction of two new high schools of equal enrollments in Lower Merion Township is the driving force behind a redistricting plan unveiled last night by school officials. WHYY's Jennifer Lynn reports now it's time for residents to make sense of what's on the table.
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More information:
Watch a recording of last night's redistricting announcement in Lower Merion on the school district's website (Click on "Redistricting")
Catching a culprit: Cause of Rehoboth fish kill revealed
September 9, 2008
A Rehoboth Bay fish kill last week has been blamed on low levels of oxygen. WHYY's Stella Payne reports.
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Philly fugitives implored to surrender through new church-based program
September 9, 2008
Philadelphia and federal authorities are partnering with city religious leaders to urge fugitives to turn themselves in at a South Philadelphia church. Yesterday Mayor Michael Nutter, acting U.S. Attorney Laurie Magid, and District Attorney Lynne Abraham held a press conference inside the True Gospel Tabernacle Church to announce that next week the city will participate in the Fugitive Safe Surrender Program. The initiative of the U.S. Marshals Service gives non-violent fugitives the chance to answer to outstanding warrants in a less-threating atmosphere. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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PA Hit-and-Run drivers could face increased jail time
September 9, 2008
Drivers in hit and run accidents will face stiffer penalties if a new proposal before the state House Judiciary Committee becomes law. Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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Corzine displeased with Turnpike toll hike plan
September 9, 2008
As the toll hike plan moves forward with the Turnpike Authority, many are watching Governor Jon Corzine for his response. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports he has the ultimate veto power to prevent the plan and he just might use it.
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Day 1 of Fumo jury selection comes to a close
September 8, 2008
Jury selection in the federal corruption trial of State Senator Vince Fumo continues tomorrow. The powerful senator faces a 139-count indictment. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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NJ Supreme Court marks sixty years
September 8, 2008
It has been sixty years since the Supreme Court first began in the state. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports it is a milestone for many, especially Justice James Coleman Jr., the first African American judge to sit on the state bench.
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What does Fed takeover of Fannie and Freddie mean for Pennsylvanians?
September 8, 2008
Pennsylvanians facing foreclosure or looking to buy a house for the first time could see some benefit from the federal takeover of mortgage lenders Fanny Mae and Freddie Mac. WHYY's Jen Rehill reports from Harrisburg.
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Long-anticipated Fumo trial starts today
September 8, 2008
Jury selection in the federal corruption trial of State Senator Vince Fumo begins today. The powerful state senator faces a 139-count indictment. The trial will showcase a number of high profile witnesses. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports on how picking a jury in such a case may be a lengthy process.
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Iranian professor bound for Penn jailed in home country
September 8, 2008
An Iranian scholar scheduled for a year-long residency at the University of Pennsylvania has been detained in Iran. No charges have been filed and his colleagues at Penn say there has been no communication with him. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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NJ farmers look forward to fall season
September 8, 2008
Summer may be almost over but farmers in New Jersey say the season for fresh produce is only halfway done. Many are also adapting to more sustainable farming techniques by marketing their products closer to home. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Local Business with Frank Devlin:
Business takes on high health care costs with a unique partnership
September 8, 2008
One Philadelphia business is taking steps to try to control health care costs for the company and employees. Their plan includes an innovative partnership with a local hospital. Here's Frank Devlin of PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com.
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Police step up patrols in at University of Delaware
September 6, 2008
More police are hitting the streets in Newark, Delaware, home to the University of Delaware. The city's police force is closely monitoring areas where three robberies have occurred in the past three weeks. WHYY's Andrea Boyle has the story as well as some advice from police for students.
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Strike continues as Souderton teachers, school district remain far apart
September 5, 2008
Talks on the ongoing teachers strike at the Souderton School District ended after just one hour on Friday, when a state mediator deemed the process fruitless then pulled the plug on negations indefinitely. WHYY's Paul Jackson reports.
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Former high school dropouts completing degrees offer Mayor Nutter advice on schools
September 5, 2008
Some Community College of Philadelphia students took a break from their nutrition class today to give the mayor some advice. They told him why they dropped out of the city's public schools and how they've managed to get back on track through enrollment in CCP's Gateway to College Initiative. The 110 high school dropouts in the program work simultaneously toward a high school diploma and an associate's degree or certificate. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Nutter give go ahead to President's House memorial
September 5, 2008
Mayor Nutter has finally authorized the construction of a memorial on the site of the first presidential house where President George Washington kept slaves. The projected $7 million price tag for the project is less than half met but as WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports, Nutter and former mayoral rival Congressman Bob Brady are working together to make the memorial a reality.
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Delaware prepares for Hanna in Rehoboth...
September 5, 2008
The possibility of big surf and strong rip currents has the Rehoboth Beach Patrol warning people to watch from a distance. WHYY's Kyle Schmoyer reports.
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...and along the rest of the coast
September 5, 2008
Delaware authorities are cautioning people living along the coast to keep an eye on weather reports. Tropical storm Hanna is moving up the eastern seaboard and some form of it is expected to hit the area on Saturday. WHYY's Bill Cook reports that state environmental officials and coastal residents hope this weather event will not be a repeat of a major storm that hit Delaware just a few months ago.
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Thinking locally, group tackles PA greenhouse gas emission
September 5, 2008
The first meeting of the state's new Climate Change Advisory Committee was today. The group was formed to figure out what Pennsylvania can do about excessive greenhouse gases. Taunya English reports from Harrisburg.
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NJ Turnpike toll hike still on the table
September 5, 2008
Even though the 800% toll hike is "dead, dead, dead," a new Turnpike Authority plan still wants to raise them. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports on how tolls may go up next year and the legislature won't be able to stop it.
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Councilman Goode suggests shrinking City Council
September 5, 2008
With just two weeks until Philadelphia City Council begins its fall session, one city councilman says the legislative body should shrink from 17 members to 15. No, he's not proposing to be on of the two. Councilman Wilson Goode, Jr.'s idea would eliminate the two guaranteed Republican at-large seats. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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Chestnut Hill hospital to close maternity ward
September 5, 2008
One more area hospital is getting out of the baby business. Chestnut Hill hospital will close their obstetrical unit in early November. The move leaves the northwest, northeast and south sections of Philadelphia without facilities to deliver babies. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports.
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State shames businesses in paying delinquent taxes
September 5, 2008
The state has added 26 businesses to its internet list of tax delinquents. State officials say they are intent on collecting more than $6 million from the 210 businesses on the list. Since the state started posting the web list two years ago, 65% of the debtors who have appeared on it have settled up, committed to deferred payment plans, or gone out of business. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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More information:
The complete PA tax delinquent list is available at: www.Revenue.State.Pa.Us
Philly school district copes with annual teacher vacancies
September 5, 2008
Thousands of Philadelphia schoolchildren will start the year with substitute teachers. District officials say some teaching vacancies are inevitable, but critics say the District could do more. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Philadelphia's new regional produce market finds a site
September 4, 2008
Thursday, business and government officials announced that they have found a new site and funding for the city's regional produce market after a seven-year search. Thanks to a public/private partnership it looks like this time the fruit and vegetable distributors will get a brand new 667,000 square foot state-of-the-art home nearly twice the size of their current site. The total development cost is more than $218 million and the Commonwealth has agreed to release $152 million to support the project. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Public students return to class in Philadelphia
September 4, 2008
The summer of 2008 is now officially just a memory for young Philadelphians. Almost two hundred thousand public and charter school students started class today. City and district officials launched the new school year with a traditional bell-ringing ceremony at a new school in West Philadelphia. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there and has this report.
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School District representative helps grieving families cope
September 4, 2008
The 200,000 students who attend Philadelphia's public and charter schools are heading back to school today. District officials say about 25 of their students die each year from illness, accidents and violence. One district representative is charged with reaching out to the surviving family and classmates. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler spoke to Dr. Victoria Yancey.
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Children's Hospital employee charged in noose incident
September 4, 2008
An employee at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is being charged with a hate crime in federal court. 62 year-old William Gould is accused of threatening racist violence. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports.
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Facebook and New Jersey team up to fight abuse
September 4, 2008
New Jersey is the first state to team up with social networking websites like Facebook so that users can report online abuses. Attorney General Anne Milgram says the new icon will make it even easier. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports from Trenton on how one such abuse report may have prevented a tragedy.
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"Kinship approach" to foster care gaining acceptance in PA
September 3, 2008
Pennsylvania Family Court judges and social workers are in training this week learning new ways to find families for abused and neglected children. WHYY's Taunya English reports.
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Immigration status illegally used by NJ schools
September 3, 2008
The American Civil Liberties Union New Jersey chapter finds almost 200 schools in the state are asking for illegal information about immigration status when a new student registers. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports.
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Foster child abuse numbers questioned in NJ
September 3, 2008
The number of cases of foster child abuse in New Jersey corroborated by investigators last year was down from the prior year. But state officials say that's because of better investigations, not a drop in the number of cases reported. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports the new figures has child advocates calling for answers from the Department of Children and Families.
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Nutter's "Education Week" starts with trip back to catholic school
September 3, 2008
With classes set to start for public and parochial school students across the city, Mayor Michael Nutter is using this week to highlight the importance of all the city's schools. He started this morning with a visit to a catholic school in Northeast Philadelphia. WHYY's Bill Hangley was there.
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Philly School District, teachers continue quiet contract negotiations
September 3, 2008
Classes start tomorrow for students in the Philadelphia School District and their teachers will start the new academic year without a new contract. The district's 16,000 teachers are working under a contract extension, but both sides are not being very forthcoming on the results of their negotiations. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more.
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PECO building to get state's largest green roof
September 3, 2008
Prodded by parent company Exelon, PECO has put its efforts to go green into high gear. The energy company has announced plans to build the largest green roof in Pennsylvania. WHYY's Paul Jackson has the details and talked with high level PECO officials on the symbolic benefit of this effort.
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School still out for summer as teachers strike in Souderton
September 2, 2008
It's day one of a teacher strike at Souderton Area School District in Montgomery County. After six hours of talks yesterday, the parties were deadlocked. Today, as teachers across the area head back to school, Souderton teachers hit the pavement. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Body Parts thieves plead guilty
September 2, 2008
The gruesome tale of a fraternal pair of profiteering funeral directors took another turn today as the accused thieves pled guilty. Officials say the Garzone brothers helped steal body parts from almost 250 bodies. The bones and tissue were then sold for use in surgery patients. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Help for Katrina victims continues
September 2, 2008
New Orleans was spared the worse of Hurricane Gustav yesterday. Meanwhile, a volunteer relief effort helping to repair/restore homes of displaced residents following Hurricane Katrina in 2005 is still going on. WHYY's Dave Heller talks with Liz McCartney, the director of St. Bernard Project.
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Philly schools superintendent prepares for new year
September 2, 2008
School Superintendent Arlene Ackerman will tour a handful of Philadelphia public schools today in advance of classes getting underway Thursday. The new superintendent's first academic year comes with plenty of challenges. WHYY's Bill Hangley reports.
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Short session leaves little room for PA lawmakers
September 2, 2008
Pennsylvania lawmakers have just nine session days scheduled in Harrisburg before the November election meaning that some issues may not be addressed before a new session begins in January. WHYY's Taunya English reports from Harrisburg.
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Temple U wants their students to learn from the city
September 2, 2008
Temple University undergraduate students will be the first to experience a new program this fall -- that's been five years in the making. The new general education curriculum required for all new bachelor's degree candidates is replacing Temple's core curriculum, which was last modified in the 1990s. The theme of the new classes? Let students learn from the city that surrounds the school. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports.
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Philly-area Red Cross readies for Gustav
August 29, 2008
The Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania has volunteers in the Gulf Coast ready to assist should Hurricane Gustav come ashore and cause major damage. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports. Listen to the mp3 »
GAO faults FAA for Philly International flight plan change
August 29, 2008
The fight continues over whether the Federal Aviation Administration can implement a plan to redirect flight patters across the country. South Jersey Congressman Rob Andrews has been vocal in his opposition to the plan, which would see planes redirected over his district. Now, the United States Government Accountability Office says the FAA plan is lacking in a number of areas. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Fight over Burlholme park continues in court
August 29, 2008
Testimony continues today in a case that could decide the future of what city officials call an unprecedented land deal. Residents of Northeast Philadelphia are challenging the city's right to lease 19 acres of the park to the Fox Chase Cancer Center. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more. Listen to the mp3 »
Mass killing of puppies spurs action on Dog Protection Bill
August 29, 2008
State lawmakers have just nine session days scheduled before the November election, but it looks like they may tackle the hotly debated dog law bill. Taunya English reports from Harrisburg. Listen to the mp3 »
PECO to lower prices for natural gas
August 29, 2008
PECO energy will lower its natural gas rates by 5 percent beginning next month. The move is a reaction to falling natural gas prices over the past few months. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Church closings in Camden has Diocese thinking radically
August 29, 2008
Opposition to Camden Diocese church closings has not gone unnoticed. Now Bishop Joseph Galante - or at least his spokesman - is using a word not often associated with the Catholic Church. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports on their new use of the "c" word. Listen to the mp3 »
Local Business with Bernie Dagenais:
Philly area enjoys healthy tourist season
August 29, 2008
The summer travel season is ending and it has not been a bust for the region. Here's Bernie Dagenais of PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com. Listen to the mp3 »
Consumer Reports:
SUV options that are budget friendly
August 29, 2008
The term SUV has become synonymous with gas-guzzling excess for many people. With today's wide range of models on the market, Consumer Reports Automotive Editor, Rik Paul, says you can often find one that meets your needs without draining your bank account when you fill 'er up. Listen to the mp3 »
AIDS activists protest Rendell's acceptance of "abstinence only" funding
August 29, 2008
Local aids activists are up in arms about Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell's move to accept $1.7 million in federal funds for abstinence only sex education. The group picketed this morning outside the Bellevue hotel in Philadelphia, where the governor keeps an office. A spokesman for the governor argues that acceptance of the money does not signal a change in state policy. WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Philly taxi drivers unite, city looks for better service
August 28, 2008
City officials hope a new association of taxi drivers can help strengthen the city's tourism industry. The Unified Taxi Workers Alliance held a pre-Labor Day rally yesterday, marking the merger of two competing driver's groups. Their choice for president, however, is facing some legal troubles of his own. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more. Listen to the mp3 »
PA considers mandatory paid sick days
August 28, 2008
Pennsylvania's House of Representatives Labor Committee is considering whether to mandate paid sick days in the state. The committee heard testimony on and debated the measure yesterday as WHYY's Shai Ben-Yaacov reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Aerial spraying for mosquitoes in Philly region continues tonight
August 27, 2008
Aerial spraying to control West Nile Virus in the region continues tonight. Planes will be releasing pesticides over parts of Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties in an effort to reduce the highest rates of infected mosquitoes ever measured in the state. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more. Listen to the mp3 »
Philly Free Library introduces support for non-English speakers
August 27, 2008
More than 150,000 immigrants use the Free Library of Philadelphia and about 34,000 of them do not speak English. A new program is aimed at helping librarians communicate with these residents. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Unisys sign on Two Liberty denied
August 27, 2008
The Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment has ruled unanimously that the Unisys Corporation cannot hang two large illuminated corporate logos from its new headquarters at Two Liberty Place. The decision leaves the company's plan to move to Center City up in the air. WHYY's Bill Hangley has more. Listen to the mp3 »
New Jersey Democrats at Convention leave ghost town at State House
August 27, 2008
With Democratic legislators and the Governor gone to the Convention, it is even quieter at the State House than usual even for the August doldrums. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports. Listen to the mp3 »
DE sees increase in motorcycle fatalities
August 27, 2008
Officials with the state police say they can't remember anything like the current, statewide rash of fatal motorcycle accidents. Troopers say most of the crashes have a single common factor - speed. WHYY's Bill Cook reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Wilmington suspends issuance of handicap parking
August 27, 2008
Anyone seeking a handicapped parking space in Wilmington can't get one for 90 days. As WHYY's Andrea Boyle reports that complaints from neighbors prompted a moratorium on new spaces. WHYY's Andrea Boyle reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Senior citizen meal program losing funding
August 27, 2008
Officials at the Cheer Center of Sussex County say they may have to start turning seniors away. Their senior meal program is in jeopardy because of fewer donations and grants. WHYY's Stella Payne has more. Listen to the mp3 »
Philadelphia PD receive Taser training
August 26, 2008
The Philadelphia Police Department's newly launched Crisis Intervention Team received the very latest training in none-lethal weapons. As WHYY's Paul Jackson reports, the officers will soon carry Tasers while on-duty. Listen to the mp3 »
Gift card expire too soon? New law could change that
August 26, 2008
A Montgomery County lawmaker wants to improve the shopping and gift-giving experience for Pennsylvania residents. Taunya English reports from Harrisburg. Listen to the mp3 »
Implications for race relations in dispute over NJ affordable housing requirement
August 26, 2008
Thirty four towns in New Jersey claim that they have no more room for low-income housing and are suing the state. But supporters of the recent bill say they are prepared to fight, even if it gets ugly. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Bounty hunting in NJ now requires a license
August 26, 2008
The days of unlicensed bounty hunting in New Jersey are over. According to state police detectives, that means safer streets, fewer kidnappings, and fewer felons posing as officers. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Preventing future child welfare tragedies
August 25, 2008
Philadelphia's Department of Human Services is struggling to reform itself after some of its workers were blamed for the death of a 14-year-old girl. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are working on a pilot program that could have prevented Danieal Kelly's 2006 starvation death. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports. Listen to the mp3 »
RecycleBank experiment comes to a close in Philly
August 25, 2008
Through an experimental 4-year program, some residents of Chestnut Hill and West Oak Lane have been able to receive coupons to local businesses for their recycling efforts. The pilot program ends this week but many thought it was a great idea. WHYY's Peter Crimmins reports that the city won't be picking up the program - at least for now - because it may be too expensive. Listen to the mp3 »
Tough equation for DE schools - costs up, state funding down
August 25, 2008
School is underway in some districts across the Greater Philadelphia region. WHYY's Bill cook reports that the shaky economy could have effects on classrooms in Delaware this year -- and beyond. Listen to the mp3 »
Local Business with PBJ's Frank Devlin:
Hope on the waterfront for Gloucester City
August 25, 2008
Efforts are underway to revitalize Gloucester City, NJ. Here's Frank Devlin of the PhiladelphiaBusinessJournal.com. Listen to the mp3 »
School officials looking for more pre-K funding from state
August 23, 2008
As children across the area prepare to head back to school, some of the region's youngest students are stuck on waiting lists. This year's state budget includes an $11 million increase for pre-kindergarten but some school officials say they need more. WHYY's Elizabeth Fiedler reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Sussex County prepares for disaster
August 23, 2008
Emergency medical services and school districts in Sussex County are prepared for disaster. WHYY's Stella Payne takes a look. Listen to the mp3 »
Small college in Delaware counsels financial aid in tough market
August 23, 2008
Times are tough for some college students getting ready for a new academic year. Tuition is up and the national credit crisis is making it difficult for many students to get a loan. At one college campus in Delaware, financial aid officers are telling students: don't worry. WHYY's Bill Cook reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Surfers work with state to save Del. dunes
August 23, 2008
Delaware officials and surfing groups are working together to protect sand dunes on the shoreline. WHYY's Stella Payne has more. Listen to the mp3 »
PA helps out Ambler condo project with toxic clean-up funding
August 23, 2008
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has contributed $4 million dollars to an Ambler developer Friday to help build a 288-unit condominium and office project. WHYY's Paul Jackson has the details. Listen to the mp3 »
PA OK but still affected by national economic woes
August 22, 2008
A new report from The Keystone Research Center confirms that the Commonwealth is touched by the slowing national economy even if Pennsylvania is faring better than other parts of the country. Taunya English reports from Harrisburg. Listen to the mp3 »
NJ Professor:
Vice presidential pick only matters when it's a bad one
August 22, 2008
As the build up for Obama's Vice Presidential pick reaches its zenith, some say it's not really that big of a deal. WHYY's Mary Fuchs reports. Listen to the mp3 »
New methods for bilingual teaching
August 22, 2008
A pair of New Jersey teachers are putting their language skills to work and leading by example when teaching Spanish-speaking students. WHYY's Mary Fuchs has the story. Listen to the mp3 »
Center City trees victimized by hacker
August 22, 2008
An unknown assailant has damaged a row of young trees along Walnut Street in Center City Philadelphia. City officials say they might not survive the attacks. WHYY's Susan Phillips reports. Listen to the mp3 »
Fumo remains optimistic despite recent legal setbacks
August 22, 2008
State Senator Vince Fumo says he's optimistic about his upcoming federal corruption trial, despite the recent guilty pleas of his two co-defendants. Two former Fumo aides have agreed to cooperate with the prosecution but the Senator says he's definitely heading to trial. WHYY's Susan Phillips caught up with the embattled state senator earlier this week and filed this report. | 
