A former Philly Councilman looking for bucks from yucks

A former City Councilman is trying his hand at comedy. 

Former Councilman Rich Mariano says after spending time in jail for his corruption conviction, surviving cancer, and struggling to find a job, comedy is a good way to earn some extra money.

 Mariano served more than four years in prison after being convicted of taking nearly $30,000 in bribes.

“Life’s a little harder as a returning citizen,” Mariano said in an interview, referring to a Council measure changing the term “ex-offender” to “returning citizen” in city documents. “I keep waiting for my returning parade but I didn’t get it yet.”

Mariano also offered a humorist’s take on Mayor Nutter.

 “We got a pretty funny mayor,” he said. “He’s like Urkel on percosets, but he’s a pretty funny guy.”

 Former Councilman Frank DiCicco, who served several years with Mariano said in an interview the former electrician was often misunderstood.

“He always had a sense of humor but I don’t think people recognized it they saw it as arrogance or ignorance,” DiCicco said  in an interview. “Who knows, there’s life after council they say, who knows. This could be the beginning of a great career.”

 Mariano is performing tonight (Friday, Dec. 6th) at the Columbia Social Club in Port Richmond, 3521 Almond St. Tickets are $30:00, beer and food included. Doors open at 7. Show at 8:00. Call 215-634-0406 for tickets and more info.