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Faxes Sent to Louise Williams Bishop

Letters

From:	R
To:	Representative Bishop
Date:	Wednesday, 11/19/08
Subject:	Haddington Library

Do Not allow Mayor Nutter to close a piece of our community.
That library is a haven for the entire community. Access to
knowledge should not be something subject to budget cuts, it is
vital to the health of our community. KEEP HADDINGTON LIBRARY
OPEN!!!!!!!!

Dear Mayor Street:

Please hold off on any decision about the SugarHouse land
acquisition until Mayor Nutter takes office. The next mayor will
have to deal with these issues for years to come, he should make
the appropriate decision.

Dear Governor Rendell:

I've read that you've given up trying to re-site the casinos out
of their South Philly neighborhoods. You were mayor for 8 years
and earned a reputation as a political leader who cared about the
city's future. These casinos will degrade the quality of life and
help impoverish the residents nearby. Would you buy a house near
a monstrosity of a building with all the attendant traffic?

Please redouble your efforts to put pressure on the corporations
before this travesty is finalized. These casinos will be a
terrible legacy from you to the residents who will suffer for years.

BD

Dear Governor Rendell:
Though I do not live in South Philadelphia, I am concerned
about the impact that casinos will have on the poor who live
near them. I signed the petition to keep these casinos from
being so close to people's houses. I have been surprised by
your unwillingness to listen to the people who have treated you
very well. We are the reason you were elected. Don't forget
where you came from and the devestation that these things can
have on those who won't have a choice but to live near all of
the bad influences that will come.

Dear Governor Rendell:

You promised neighborhood leaders you would try to persuade the
casinos to relocate if somebody came to you with suitable sites.
Councilman DiCicco provided you with such a list on August 9, but
to date neither the Councilman nor the 150,000 people he
represents have heard back from you.

I ask you to do the following by October 12, 2007 at the latest:

1. Provide me and Councilman DiCicco with a detailed report
describing your efforts to persuade the casinos to move and your
progress to date.
2. Convene a blue ribbon panel of experts to study and
recommend alternative locations using Councilman DiCicco's list
as a starting point.
3. Ask the Supreme Court not to rule on any casino's request
for zoning permits until January 15, 2008 so that you and the
casinos have enough time to thoroughly explore moving their
facilities elsewhere.

Thank you for your past support of Philadelphia's neighborhoods
and for the families and children who live in them. Please let me
know if you can accommodate my request for action on your part.

Dear Gaming Oversight Committee Member:

I urge you to vote House Bill 1477 out of committee at the next
scheduled meeting of the Committee.

House Bill 1477 would protect neighborhoods by requiring casinos
to locate at least 1500 feet away from any residence, church or
school.

I expect my elected officials to look out for the best interests
of me and my family. Most especially, the General Assembly must
take steps to protect the children of Pennsylvania and the
neighborhoods in which they live from casinos.

HB 1477 is common sense legislation that deserves your
wholehearted support. I urge you to vote House Bill 1477 out of
committee at your next committee meeting.

Dear Senator Fumo:

All residents deserve a buffer zone around their homes or
apartments which protect their quality of life from instrusive
businesses. Please honor your pledge to defend Philly neighborhoods.

Greetings!

While I did not pen the letter below, I do think it is very
important that you read it!

I personally particapted in the grass roots effort to obtain
signatures for supporting the petition and had written letters
to each councilperson urging them to support sending these
badly needed resources to the classrooms and not otherwise. If
the resources are redirected to the EMO's or otherwise
compromised, then the will of the people has been again
circumvented by their elected representatives. I ask you for
your help and I would like to remind you of the trust placed in
you by the citizens.

Sincerely,

Sal Sandone

To members of City Council:

I am sure you were as surprised as many parents were about
Friday’s announcement by Rep. Dwight Evans. I hope you'll allow
me to share with you the renewed sense of urgency about the EMO
funding – both the moral and financial implications of it. If
you can lend your support to struggling over this, it is sorely
needed.


Parents across the city fought for more than a year to support
increased funding for our schools. The last thing we want is
for Council's granting of $19 million through the Public
Education Reinvestment Act to go straight to failing EMOs, two-
thirds of which fail to meet federal standards of progress.



It has been suggested that since the District receives $25
million in revenue from the EMOs but only spends $19 million,
isn’t that a better option than Rep. Evans’ threat to take away
all $25 million?



I would hope that this SRC would rather make a strong statement
about accountability and achievement, than be bullied into
pouring another $90 million into a failed venture.



In a game of chess, we would have the advantage by making the
first move, by cutting the EMOs, even entirely terminating
these draining contracts, and making a powerful statement that
we stand by accountability and achievement and that our
children are not for sale. It would be up to Rep. Evans then to
make his move, and if he took out the $25 million in his
desperation to “punish us” then so be it. Both actions would
reflect – in the clearest of light – the intentions behind them.



For our children it is a wash either way. If we keep the EMOs
we lose $19 million from our schools; if Rep. Evans takes away
our $25 million, then we lose $19 million as well. At least, in
one of these ways, we will be able to sleep at night knowing
that we at least stood by principle and moral integrity.



But if the SRC cuts a deal on the EMOs, I honestly don’t think
it has much chance of maintaining any amount of credibility,
and that would be a shame for the incoming commissioner Denise
Armbrister. Already the SRC's credibility is strained by such
questionable affronts as

The sweetheart EMO contracts, negotiated by Chairman Nevels’
own handpicked consultant, that grant EMOs:
· payment for students they don’t even teach;

· the ability to make optional ELL and bilingual ed
even though the SRC turned over to EMOs a number of schools
with high populations of English language learners;

· the ability to evade responsibility for non-
compliance on special ed; their contracts state that any non-
compliance complaints be the legal and financial responsibility
of the district;

The SRC’s refusal to release the internal District study on the
EMOs to the public, more than a month after its publication;
The communications between Nevels and Edison both before Edison
came into this District to today;
The campaign donations by Edison Schools, Inc. to the two
Philadelphia legislators, Dwight Evans and Anthony Hardy
Williams, advocating for the full retention of the EMOs
(according to the state’s Campaign Finance website).
I want to believe in the integrity of the SRC. But I also
remember that in Chester-Upland a state takeover had to be
orchestrated against a state takeover in order to remove those
that fought tooth and nail to keep Edison Schools, Inc. in that
district.



I hope you'll consider supporting the call (either privately or
publicly): Do not endorse the EMOs. Terminate the failing
contracts. For the others, change the funding formula so they
are not given extra dollars, shorten the contracts and demand
accountability for their non-compliance and failures.



If there’s anything I can do, please feel free to contact me at
any time.



Sincerely,



Helen Gym

Parents United for Public Education

215-808-1400

hgbf@aol.com

I have been trying since October of 2006 to get a dilemma
solved with Verizon. I have been reporting the problem with my
phone over and over again and Verizon has not to this date
resolved it. The trouble is inside which I have established
with Verizon because they had sent a technician out to check
the outside.

Last week I called again because using my phone is now
difficult because of the static on the line. Verizon arranged
an appointment with me for Thursday, April 26 between 4 and 8
pm. I left my job two hours early to be home to give the worker
access to the property, but needless to say, no one showed up.
I called at 8.06 pm and I was told that some one was there at
2.44 pm and that said person (Mark Johnson) reported that there
was no problem on the line. I spoke with a supervisor, James
Woodrit, who gave me his direct number 610.408.6803, which is
someone else’s number, and he promised that someone would be
there after 5.00 on Friday April 27. I made sure Woodrit
understood that the ongoing problem is inside and that I would
have to leave my job early yet again. No one came.

For a third time someone was supposed to be there on Monday
April 30 and no one showed up.

I beseech you to please step in on my behalf to solve this
problem with Verizon. I am sure you would agree, that an
existing problem since October 2006 should have been remedied
last year.

I thank you in advance for your quick action in this matter of
utmost importance.

Violette A. Swinton

Home: 215.476.1141
Work: 215.898.1509

To my elected officials:

Let Philadelphians decide how casinos will be zoned!

Dear Sen. Fumo:

Please preserve Philadelphia's right to regulate casinos through
zoning.

Sincerely,

BD

Dear Representative WIlliams
I am currently making a documentary about Solomon Burke for BBC television.
As you know, Philadelphia is Solomon's home town and I will be there next week for
his show at the Kimmel Auditorium. I hope to be able to illustrate how important
the city was in shaping his career and spirituality and would very much welcome the
opportunity of intervewing you for the film. I understand the exhaustive demands
on your time, but I also realise how important your unique perspective on the
city's gospel tradition would be in accuratley reflecting its oft-neglected influence
on Solomon and indeed all American popular music. Thank you for considering my
request.
Kind regards,
Paul Spencer

* refers to Thomas Blackwell IV
Hello, I am a 27 year old African American mother of three. I
have lived in several (4) homeless shelters in the past 15
months. *I was a resident at Traveler's Aid months ago when you
came to speak, and had the honor and pleasure of meeting with
you days later about a probate issue. I am seeking help and or
advice on my current situation. I do not know where to turn,
and my Aunt says to ask you and your office for assistance.

In May my family was selected for the 1260 housing program. I
came so close, that i was simply waiting on inspection. During
this time my then, 4 month old daughter, Layla, suffered a
fractured femur. All of my children, Andrew 13, and Skylar 1
have been removed.
Because of this we, my family, have lost our "spot" with 1260
housing.
I was told that you must have the children living with you in
the shelter to remain in the program.
Deborah Savage(215-551-8484 ext 3217) who was my contact person
at 1260 housing. Stated she received an email from Marcella
Maguire (215-685-5419)instructing her to "pull" my application.
I, at that time, left several phone messages for Marcella
Maguire ,NONE, were returned. I telephoned her today about
my "situation" she says,She is not involved with the program
anymore and cannot comment.

DHS found me indicated of neglect, NOT PHYSICAL ABUSE, and my
children went to live with the maternal grandmother, BAD MOVE,
she Syeeda Stevenson (maternal grandmother 215-924-1459)
left all three children in the home, ALONE, because she had
jury duty. i REALIZED THAT INFORMANT WAS UNSAFE FOR MY
CHILDREN.So i took them to a neighbors home, and then they went
to live with my Maternal Aunt. I informed DHS Supervisor Carol
Featherson(215-683-6214) of all of the changes A.S.A.P.

As a result of the removal of my children , in order to acquire
low income housing, I must remain "in Shelter". I was told by
Ms. Savage, that once the children are returned, "I pick up
where I left off", by selecting another scattered site to
reside in.

However, The judge, The honorable BRENDA FRAIZER-CLEMONS,
ordered that if both parties agree, (DHS AND PHILADELPHIA CHILD
ADVOCATE) my children may return to my custody prior top next
court date 1-13-06. Child advocate, JILL BUTLER of the Public
Defenders Assoc. wants housing before her office will consider
retuning the children. Charles Furman (DHS 215-683-6243) says
he is for reunification now, because he understands the
children are a requisite for housing program 1260.

Is there any programs or any way that you and your office can
help guide me in the appropriate direction.
I don't know what to do, I fell stuck between the proverbial
rock and a hard place.
I came into the shelter system at the insistence of DHS and
Scoh, they said 90 days and i would receive low income housing.
I have been in shelters were the steeple collapsed, (Luther
house on 43 rd and chest), slept in population rooms and had
items stolen (i have police reports to prove this (stenton
family manor), pay telephones falling of the wall upon my head
while pregnant (travelers aid family shelter 111 north 49Th
street, i have hospital and EMT reports to prove this as well
as eye witness accounts), to lastly the Woodstock Family Center
where i now reside.

I just want some answers and guidance in the right direction.

Thank you for taking the time to read this,

Alexis Kian Ferguson

215-287-3612

215-726-9218

1981 Woodstock

room 232

phial pa 19121

"IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY NAME, SHALL HUMBLE
THEMSELVES, AND PRAY, SEEK MY FACE, AND TURN FROM THEIR WICKED
WAYS: THEN WILL I HEAR HEAVEN, AND WILL FORGIVE THEIR SIN, AND
HEAL THEIR LAND." 2 CHRONICLES 7:14

IF YOU'RE TIRED OF THE VIOLENCE, DESPAIR, AND
DISRESPECT OF OUR COMMUNITY, ON ALL LEVELS,

COME JOIN THE MANTUA COMMUNITY IN MOMENT OF PRAYER.
SATURDAY, JUNE 25TH @ 9:00AM SHARP
WE'RE ASKING ALL MANTUA RESIDENTS AND GUESTS, WHO
LIVE, WORSHIP, WORK, OR VISIT, TO BE PRAYERLINE POSITION AT THE
OUTLINE AREA OF MANTUA, AT EXACTLY 9:00AM. PRAY FOR WHATEVER
NEEDS AND CONCERNS OF OUR COMMUNITY, THAT YOUR PRAYER PETITION
MAYBE HEARD GOD. REMEMBER, GOD IS NOT A RESPECTER OF PERSON, NOR
RELIGON; JUST, "PRAYER."

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: KEITH E. DUCKETT @ MANTUA
HAVERFORD COMMUNITY CENTER, 215-382-4591 OR REV. LARRY PATRICK
OR REV. ANDY JENKINS OR REV. ANTHONY STAFFORD. ALSO VISIT,
WWW.MANTUA1.COM. IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE PRAYER IN MANTUA IS
THE 2ND ANNUAL FUN DAY, CELEBRATION.

I need to ask why should we wear unifroms? we only wear
them to show our school colors. Mostly teenagers don't
wear them and it's like 50% chance that somepeople in
school will wear them. So If you have a chance please call
back. A t 215-339-5180 thank you.


Sincerly, L ashaye Nidera Bolds

Dear Rep. Bishop,

I have just learned via hallwatch.org that you have joined the
group of legislators working to overturn stealth bill 1954.
Thank you!

When I read articles about this issue, I am not sure which
upsets me more, the fact that one of my rights as a citizen has
been taken away, or the sneaky, underhanded way in which it was
done. Those of us in Overbrook Farms, as well as the city of
Philadelphia, must now rely on you and your fellow elected
officials to repeal bill 1954. Thank you for continuing to work
for the residents of your district.

Yours truly,
Jane Rozmiarek

Greetings Representative Williams, I am writing to you due to
grave concerns at Liberty Tower Apartments (formerly known as
Overbrook Arms). The living conditions are deplorable. When
this group acquired this building I believe it was March 2004,
they brought in the media and promised that their interest was
to provide a safe and pleasant living environment.

A little history. Although you have helped in the past, I will
refresh your memory. Dr. Berman was the prior owner. We had
problems with heat and hot water as well as drug dealers taking
over the premises. When this particular group came in, they
hired security from Mantua Against Drugs --who did an excellant
job of eradicating the problem. However, once the manager Aaron
saw that the problem was better, he reduced their hours from 16
a day down to 4 hours a night in spite of the fact that the
tenants signed a petition asking him to refrain from doing so.
Our seniors are afraid to come in out of the building. But
that's another story.

The major problem at the moment is the water situation. For the
past year, we have no clue when we will have hot water or
water, for that matter. As recently as March 17-21 2005, we had
no hot water. The hot water situation is a daily event
evidenced by the fact when I come in from work and turn it on,
air is in the pipes which causes water to come out spurting.
Today Sunday, March 27, 2005 we have NO water.

Another issue that has been addressed with the manager, Aaron,
is the filthy living conditions of the premises. Trash rooms
are not cleaned on a regular basis. Elevators are filthy. The
entire building is not kept like human beings live here. One
tenant in particular (>20 years resident) complained to me that
her clothes smell like garbage. Her closets are next to the
trash room--all apartments on the '05' line are exposed to the
smell.

Twice I have had tenants sign petitions about the living
conditions. Both ignored.

When addressed concerning the issues, both personnel and
management are argumetative and want to lay the blame at the
tenants' feet. They treat us as though we owe them.

When I met with him on December 28, 2004 to express my
disappointment in the way we are treated he actually suggested
the problem would be solved if the tenants spied on other
tenants by going through trash and telling him. This so when he
takes them to court for eviction we can testify for him. Told
him it was not going to happen. Was not going asked people to
risk bodily injury for doing his job. I have already
experienced that myself.

Further he promised me then that he was giving the employee
responsible for cleaning 3 weeks to improve or he would be
discharged. He's still here doing less.

As a matter of fact this same individual (Axel)during a
tenants' meeting, threw a broom and dust pan at my feet and
told me "if you want the building clean, clean it yourself".

And, Aaron's favorite complaint when asked why the place is not
cleaned is about chicken bones in the trashroom. I too am not
happy with the way some tenants put out their trash and have
addressed in meetings to those who attend. However, in spite
of, managements' job is to provide a safe and clean environment.

Thank you again for your help in the past and I pray that you
can help us again.

God Bless
Merdis Foster

Dear Rep. Bishop,

I hope that I am correct in assuming that you are already
solidly supporting the repeal of HB 1954. You know your
constituents in the Overbrook area and how active we are in
voicing our opinions on issues that affect us. We have
temporarily lost that voice. It is up to you and your fellow
elected officials to overturn an unbelievable breach of the
democratic process. Thank you. Jane Rozmiarek

I am writing to ask for your support for measures to improve the
House Rules and Procedures by adopting the amendments proposed by
State Representative Greg Vitali. The recent passage of HB 1954
clearly demonstrates the need for reform. This stealth amendment
was passed during a late-night, lame duck session last November
through a flawed process that denied many of our elected
representatives adequate time for thoughtful and informed lawmaking.

As citizens, we expect that our elected representatives will
make laws that preserve and protect citizens’ rights not conspire
with private interests and their lobbyists to revoke them. It
is time to establish new procedures that will restore citizen
confidence and empower lawmakers to protect the public interest.


Please encourage your colleagues in both parties to hold a
vigorous and healthy debate on the House Rules and refrain from
using the temporary muzzle rule. I urge you to pass House Rules
which guarantee that legislators not only know what they are
voting on but require them to be on the House Floor when a vote
is taken.

Sincerely,

Mary Tracy