RE: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
I didn't think Tony needed others to chime in, even though he requested it, but I guess he does. I'm very happy to see any agency go the extra mile, or step, or whatever, to do something that is within their general mandate, but perhaps isn't strictly allowed by the bureaucratic rules. So much of the time the reverse is true--that the organizations don't even do what they are supposed to do--that I'm not going to slap somebody for going above and beyond. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
If going above and beyond means putting up campaign posters at a church fair, I'm going to complain every time. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 01:57 AM, Bill Sanderson wrote: I didn't think Tony needed others to chime in, even though he requested it, but I guess he does. I'm very happy to see any agency go the extra mile, or step, or whatever, to do something that is within their general mandate, but perhaps isn't strictly allowed by the bureaucratic rules. So much of the time the reverse is true--that the organizations don't even do what they are supposed to do--that I'm not going to slap somebody for going above and beyond. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
Speaking from experience as the former Treasurer and President of a 501(c)(3) organization, the sadly-defunct Cherry Tree Music Co-op, I'll offer a brief explanation. 501(c)(3) refers to a specific section of the Internal Revenue Code. It is a status that is granted by the IRS to certain types of charitable organizations -- corporations, community chests, funds, or foundations that are organized exclusively for a charitable purpose. Such purposes include ...charitable, religious, educational, scientific, literary, testing for public safety, fostering national or international amateur sports competition, and the prevention of cruelty to children or animals. The full details on eligibility, reporting requirements, etc., can be found here: http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/index.html An organization with this status can receive tax-deductible contributions. It is still required to pay many other Federal, State, and local taxes on payroll, earnings (from interest or investments), etc., and to make regular reports to the IRS on certain aspects of its operations. Different states have different policies on how they recognize and treat 501(c)(3) organizations. For instance, here in Pennsylvania, such an organization is normally required to incorporate as a non-profit, and is exempt from paying Sales and Use tax on its purchases. The individual states also have a variety of regulations on the fund-raising activities performed by a 501(c)(3) organization. Pennsylvania requires a substantial amount of additional registration and reporting if a 501(c)(3) solicits donations, as compared to merely accepting them when offered or when spending money that was given to them via a will or trust (such as the local Pew Charitable Trust). -Original Message- From: Bill Sanderson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: UnivCity@list.purple.com Sent: Thu, 24 May 2007 3:21 pm Subject: RE: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News I believe that the 501c3 status comes from the Feds, not the state. It is federal taxes that contributions to such organizations can be exempted from, not state taxes. I suspect the possibility of this incident arousing enough interest in a Federal (anything) to prompt some action is near zero, but maybe I lack imagination. Not saying that there wasn’t a situation that could be construed as a violation, but I suspect that the folks who would look at this have bigger fish to fry. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of S. Sharrieff Ali Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2007 2:26 PM To: 'UNIVERSITY*CITOYEN'; 'University City List' Subject: RE: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News UCD management is accountable to it's Board of Directors. UCD management by mission is accountable in part to those it services through geographic boundaries, it’s relationships of support (which would include ALL the local politicians), and individuals who donate money to supplement the on-going institutional support. UCD management is accountable in part to the State of Pennsylvania based on it’s 501-C3 status. If sustained funding were to happen through a local assessment, then, in that case the UCD management would be accountable to the public interest based on that assessment and still would be accountable to a Board of Directors representative of that interest. S AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com. =0 You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
In my experience, most people like nice parks in their neighborhood and prefer them to shabby ones. I have actually logged hundreds of hours sitting in park space and asking people how they feel about it, so I respect my own opinion on this subject at least as much as I respect your opinion on virtual communities. There may be a hidden majority out there that quietly dislikes nice parks and wishes people would let them run down, but I doubt it. I don't dislike Ray at all. He has just raised a very interesting issue about UCD governance that I've been trying to explore with him. It extends broadly to any kind of local service group or agency below the City level (and this is a very large city). I think it's useful to focus attention on practical issues from the beginning, to steer common inquiry away from blind alleys. Some lines of thought Ray pursues are not blind alleys. -- Tony West From: Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] This is another example of an area with specific boundaries that you have decided don't exist because you don't want them to exist. You've even decided that your opinion is that of most people in the neighborhood and you imply that those who disagree are insane. The arrogance I see in this post is incredible to me. Is your dislike for Ray so strong that you have to resort to this? Must you respond to his every sentence with the opposite opinion? Why respond at all? You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
[UC] Best Fest returns to Clark Park jun 2
(Posting this for Erin. -- T.W.) Best Fest Music Festival kicks out on Saturday, jun 2 at 43rd Chester, 2pm-8pm. The time has come for our third annual, to be held in the only place we see fit for a music and arts extravaganza: the Dog Bowl at Clark Park. This year's fest promises to be just as sensational as the last two, so come with your senses open and let your cup overfloweth! Performers include local musicians such as Tickley Feather, Serpents of Wisdom, Bad News Bats, Pads and Steel, as well as many others with a few surprises thrown into the mix. A total of 14 bands will perform throughout the day. There will also be local artists and activists with tables for queries and overall enjoyment, as well as food vendors to keep bellies happy. Best Fest is generously sponsored by Sherman Arts, Philly Car Share, Badmaster Records and The Green Line Café. We invite the entire community to come celebrate the start of the summer that Saturday with Best Fest. For more information please contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] or visit www.myspace.com/bestfest for a complete list of performers. Your day in the sun has arrived. Do not let it pass you by! -- Erin Engelstad Philly Best Fest 215.382.2880 You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
[UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
For those who are interested (as opposed to merely argumentative), here's some information directly from the IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations. This is extracted verbatim from the IRS website at _http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=154712,00.html_ (http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=154712,00.html) -- in case anybone wants to learn even more. Information on filing complaints for tax fraud activity -- including violations of tax exemption conditions by 501(c)(3) organizations -- is online at _http://www.irs.gov/compliance/enforcement/article/0,,id=106778,00.html_ (http://www.irs.gov/compliance/enforcement/article/0,,id=106778,00.html) Al Krigman -- - The Prohibition on Political Campaign Intervention Under the Internal Revenue Code, all section 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office. The prohibition applies to all campaigns including campaigns at the federal, state and local level. Violation of this prohibition may result in denial or revocation of tax-exempt status and the imposition of certain excise taxes. Those section 501(c)(3) organizations that are private foundations are subject to additional restrictions that are not described in this fact sheet. What is Political Campaign Intervention? Political campaign intervention includes any and all activities that favor or oppose one or more candidates for public office. The prohibition extends beyond candidate endorsements. Contributions to political campaign funds or public statements of position (verbal or written) made by or on behalf of an organization in favor of or in opposition to any candidate for public office clearly violate the prohibition on political campaign intervention. Distributing statements prepared by others that favor or oppose any candidate for public office will also violate the prohibition. Allowing a candidate to use an organization’s assets or facilities will also violate the prohibition if other candidates are not given an equivalent opportunity. Although section 501(c)(3) organizations may engage in some activities to promote voter registration, encourage voter participation, and provide voter education, they will v iolate the prohibition on political campaign intervention if they engage in an activity that favors or opposes any candidate for public office. Certain activities will require an evaluation of all the facts and circumstances to determine whether they result in political campaign intervention. ** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.
RE: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
Boundaries would come into play if there was consistent service to an area which is not subsidized or advertised. Any supervisor, in order to do his or her job effectively needs to use their own reasonable judgment on a day-to-day basis. If the local Councilperson asked John Fenton if a crew he was managing could help set up the Malcolm X Park for a community fair, personally, I think it would be reasonable. At the point he arrived and it looked to be more than expected?.. it was probably easier to get it done and move on rather to turn around and leave Jannie Blackwell hanging. Malcolm X Park and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell are community partners of UCD, Penn, and many of the board institutions. At least that is how it is stated and portrayed at the Penn First Thursday meetings. Penn has used multiple resources to improve the conditions at the park and many Penn employees live directly around the park. I think it would be particularly hypocritical of the UCD Board (who is controlling the outcome) to suddenly disassociate themselves. So.. making a boundary argument?, I believe does not hold up to scrutiny. S -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Frank Sent: Friday, May 25, 2007 1:33 AM To: UnivCity@list.purple.com Subject: Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News This is another example of an area with specific boundaries that you have decided don't exist because you don't want them to exist. You've even decided that your opinion is that of most people in the neighborhood and you imply that those who disagree are insane. The arrogance I see in this post is incredible to me. Is your dislike for Ray so strong that you have to resort to this? Must you respond to his every sentence with the opposite opinion? Why respond at all? Which brings me to your earlier question about how some online communities deal with trolls. We have ignored them. It works. So does creating a moderated environment but, given the nature of this list, I don't think it is appropriate here. I'm sure we would have some disagreements about what constitutes a troll. As far as the John Fenton/UCD controversy is concerned, dismissing it by saying that's the way Philly politics works just doesn't wash with me. People make conscious decisions about whether or not to participate in this kind of logrolling. In my opinion, people should just fess up and take their lumps. If they think it's for the greater good, then they can make their case and see what happens. And remember, this might not be an isolated incident, just the only one we've heard about. Frank On May 24, 2007, at 10:33 PM, Anthony West wrote: As a park activist, I'd have to say this argument is thin. If you serve a community of residents within certain boundaries, but one of their dedicated facilities lies one block beyond those boundaries, a wise and responsible community organization will seek to extend them some coverage. It's meaningless that some neighborhood service lies one block outside some boundary. Suppose the West Philadelphia Y requested some assistance from UCD -- would that bother you? I'm asking for the opinion of every neighbor on this list as well as yours. I personally know readers of UC-list who are also Friends of Malcolm X Park. How many readers have been quietly thinking Greg Cojulun is doing a lousy job, over at Malcolm X Park? By contrast, how many readers have noticed how much better Malcolm X Park has been looking, compared to 1997? If you belong to the latter group (aka the not-insane group) Facilitating Malcolm X Park activities in general is one of the best things either UCD or any of its haughty rivals could do. I'm totally for that. It makes sense to most people who are comfortable living in this neighborhood. If any of you are uncomfortable with Malcolm X Park, call me and talk to me. Yes, it is very much part of our neighborhood and a very safe and well-maintained space, I might add. -- Tony West Ray wrote: ucd states on their website precisely where their boundaries are, and that's where everyone funding ucd expects them to be servicing. and that's where ucd claims all its credit, it's where ucd draws its statistics to write up its report cards, etc. this incident involved taking workers away from servicing an area within the ucd boundaries to an area outside the ucd boundaries. workers that included ucd staff as well as 2 penn students. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To
RE: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
I don't think anybody, Tony included, has said that they were anything but completely opposed to UCD supporting anybodies political campaign. I'm certainly opposed to them putting up campaign signs for anyone. Not only is it wrong for a non-profit to do so, it's illegal; this goes for churches, and it goes for UCD. Whether UCD can cross the invisible line set up on their maps to perform a service however is a completely different issue. As long as they're keeping their funders happy, UCD can certainly go an extra block or so and extend services as they see fit. In fact, I can think of at least one other instance where UCD provided safety ambassadors to walk people back from an event on 52nd street. To stand on the opposite side of the street and shout sorry! we can't help you! there's an invisible line down the middle of this road! would be a foolish consistency. imho anyway. UCD has, in the past, expressed a desire to extend services West. The proposed NID maps showed how they'd planned to add street cleaning and safety ambassador service several blocks farther out (I don't recall the exact numbers). So, crossing the road to help out in Malcolm X park seem to me like going the extra mile in spite of funding difficulties. Now, if they did go the extra mile to put up campaign signs for Jannie Blackwell, I'm completely opposed to that, as I'm sure Tony and Ray are too. This is another example of an area with specific boundaries that you have decided don't exist because you don't want them to exist. You've even
RE: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
Allowing a candidate to use an organization's assets or facilities will also violate the prohibition if other candidates are not given an equivalent opportunity. Although section 501(c)(3) organizations may engage in some activities to promote voter registration, encourage voter participation, and provide voter education, they will violate the prohibition on political campaign intervention if they engage in an activity that favors or opposes any candidate for public office. Certain activities will require an evaluation of all the facts and circumstances to determine whether they result in political campaign intervention. Thanks for posting this Al. It provides context for the argument of what is reasonable. Given the facts of the case, helping a local councilperson set-up (1) community event during campaign to encourage voter participation will not hold water. There is no evidence or statement saying the volunteers participated in promoting or opposing a candidate in any way. Based on everything we know today (which is not much), I believe thinking people would not see this particular argument as a productive use of time or taxpayers dollars to press a case. Including the IRS. S -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, May 25, 2007 8:41 AM To: UnivCity@list.purple.com Subject: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations For those who are interested (as opposed to merely argumentative), here's some information directly from the IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations. This is extracted verbatim from the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=154712,00.html -- in case anybone wants to learn even more. Information on filing complaints for tax fraud activity -- including violations of tax exemption conditions by 501(c)(3) organizations -- is online at http://www.irs.gov/compliance/enforcement/article/0,,id=106778,00.html Al Krigman --- The Prohibition on Political Campaign Intervention Under the Internal Revenue Code, all section 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office. The prohibition applies to all campaigns including campaigns at the federal, state and local level. Violation of this prohibition may result in denial or revocation of tax-exempt status and the imposition of certain excise taxes. Those section 501(c)(3) organizations that are private foundations are subject to additional restrictions that are not described in this fact sheet. What is Political Campaign Intervention? Political campaign intervention includes any and all activities that favor or oppose one or more candidates for public office. The prohibition extends beyond candidate endorsements. Contributions to political campaign funds or public statements of position (verbal or written) made by or on behalf of an organization in favor of or in opposition to any candidate for public office clearly violate the prohibition on political campaign intervention. Distributing statements prepared by others that favor or oppose any candidate for public office will also violate the prohibition. Allowing a candidate to use an organization's assets or facilities will also violate the prohibition if other candidates are not given an equivalent opportunity. Although section 501(c)(3) organizations may engage in some activities to promote voter registration, encourage voter participation, and provide voter education, they will violate the prohibition on political campaign intervention if they engage in an activity that favors or opposes any candidate for public office. Certain activities will require an evaluation of all the facts and circumstances to determine whether they result in political campaign intervention. _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
[UC] The Green Bird at Curio -- List Meetup at Abbraccio, 7:00 - play at 8:00 (ooh, and photos!)
If you're sitting on the fence about coming to the show, stop, it can't be comfortable. Here are some photos I took of the show last night: http://www.kylecassidy.com/images/2007/green-bird/ Our own Margie Politzer played a key roll in the performances' success last night. But I'll leave that to her to tell. I'll see y'alls at Abbraccio tonight. kc P.s. I also have info on the August Wilson show. More on that later. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
RE: [UC] Sex Advice from Real Estate Agents
Heh. I know the person that writes that column now. The next one will be ... From Librarians. - Mike V. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Brian Siano Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2007 7:27 PM To: Univcity Subject: [UC] Sex Advice from Real Estate Agents http://www.nerve.com/regulars/sexadvicefrom/realestateagents/ Somehow, it seemed _right_ for this list. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
RE: [UC] UC Review Graffiti Contest
http://www.asc.upenn.edu/usr/cassidy/lj/2005/whitey.jpg You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
RE: [UC] UC Review Graffiti Contest - manipulative PR?
Whitey is obviously Whitey The Chairman of the Board Ford one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. He allowed an average of only 10.94 base runners per nine innngs and posted 45 career shutouts. Apparantly this title is contested. I'm also a bit puzzled though as to why the UC review would glorify taggers with some page 1 exposure There must be better uses for that space on the front page. kc -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, May 25, 2007 1:21 PM To: univcity@list.purple.com Subject: Re: [UC] UC Review Graffiti Contest - manipulative PR? In a message dated 5/25/2007 12:37:23 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: http://www.asc.upenn.edu/usr/cassidy/lj/2005/whitey.jpg Who is whiley, and why did you do this? Photos of comely Curio actresses dressed in sacks is probably more appropriate for page one, just below the fold, of the UC Review. And, why no complaints about the UCD removing for free graffitti, when a subsidiary of the Partnership CDC did the same work for a fee? Apparently, even the UC Bourgeoisie doesn't want to give up its entitlements and stoops to creating the perception of need by manipulating the local media. More artists. Fewer vandals. Craig See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 . You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
Re: [UC] John Fenton Politics
I have not heard any updates about John Fenton's situation aside from the claims that he had been suspended in connection with the allegations about the Knox rally. I have found John Fenton enormously helpful, energetic, and competent. I think we are extremely lucky to have him assisting us to keep developents in University City moving on the right track. I would hate to lose such an asset. Not having supported Knox and not seeing how UCD could justify using someone to facilitate a Knox rally, I am not disposed to ignore the seriousness of the allegations. However, having no inside information about what actually transpired and who might ultimately be to blame, I would not rush to judgment based on the allegations. Like some others, I am surmising that someone higher up might have been the decider in this matter. I do hope John knows that many of us feel indebted to him for doing such a fine job and hope very much that he continues in his position. Ann
Re: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
The original article in the Daily News says this:Included in the setup were Knox for Mayor posters, which made Walker think this was unusual community service indeed. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 10:24 AM, S. Sharrieff Ali wrote: There is no evidence or statement saying the volunteers participated in promoting or opposing a candidate in any way.
Re: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
Does that mean that Walker posted Knox posters or that yellow jackets or even Councilwoman' Blackwell's other volunteers posted Knox posters while Walker set up the moon bounce? I don't believe Walker ever specifically stated that he was directed to hang Knox posters. Cheers, Stephen On 5/25/07, Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The original article in the Daily News says this:Included in the setup were Knox for Mayor posters, which made Walker think this was unusual community service indeed. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 10:24 AM, S. Sharrieff Ali wrote: There is no evidence or statement saying the volunteers participated in promoting or opposing a candidate in any way. -- -- University City Yoga http://www.ucyoga.com
Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
What does this mean exactly? I believe my point about boundaries was clarified in the final paragraph of my post. Going outside of any kind of boundary can sometimes be for the greater good of the organization. The person who makes that decision, though, will sometimes be called on to justify their decision. I'm sure that's exactly what's happening now. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 08:42 AM, S. Sharrieff Ali wrote: Malcolm X Park and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell are community partners of UCD, Penn, and many of the board institutions. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
[UC] The UCD answer
I'm catching up on the developments. I've worked with John Fenton in the past and he is the only UCD leader I would trust. It is so obvious to me that he is the fall guy. UCD's answer really completes the outrage. I hope John stands up and tells the actual story behind this policy. I really hope this will bring the end to UCD UCD is an organization that focuses on spin. In their official statement and calls, Mr. Lewis Wendell claims that he knew nothing about the implementation of this punishment policy. What ??? How dare the UCD board and Mr. Wendell dump a policy of this magnitude, community service, upon Mr. Fenton and not concern themselves with it? This community service policy involves the public humiliation of offenders whom are used for the free labor. ( I observed these unsupervised offenders last year when they spent the day on my block. I hope we talk about this terrible community service policy, in general, as a result of this current UCD problem.) If Wendell speaks the truth and knew nothing, isn't the statement a proof that UCD must not be entrusted with the secret policymaking they insist is a UCD right? They have contempt for our rights and the diverse voices in the community, and now we see that they're stupid and incompetent while they rule over us. What does Wendell and the board say to John? 'Yo John, as long as you see that these guys are humiliated, do whatever the hell you want as long as you keep it a secret Who are these clowns trying to fool with that spin? When their policies come under the scrutiny that they hate, we are told that a policy of this magnitude was all up to John and so its John's fault now??? I'll happily forgive John, but in either case UCD cannot be forgiven. First, UCD showed us its contempt for us with its arrogance. How can they demand power and secrecy over such policies yet have complete indifference when these are implemented? Then, instead of apologizing and vowing transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness which they have refused to date, they engage in a cover up and try to focus blame on the only executive who is generally respected in the community. They're trying to make this a poor decision by a well liked lone employee. To me, it looks like they are attempting to confuse the real issue by focusing blame on this one person. They want us to quickly forget the real failing and focus on forgiving John. The Board and Wendell should be ashamed of themselves. I will be happy to contribute to any effort to file a formal complaint against UCD. I personally hope Penn, an institution I love and hate, will redirect the funding given to UCD to rehire Mr. Fenton and form the West Philadelphia, Southwest Philadelphia, Grays Ferry Special Street Cleaning Service. After all, the decades of Philadelphia bashing hurt the residents of the communities beyond the district boundaries. If Penn honestly wanted to engage and partner with the people of Philadelphia and make restitution, why not share the only successful portion of UCD, the street cleaning, with the larger community? Mr. Fenton could get the trash picked up in all of our parks and instead of using the community service labor, Penn could support a well designed system to employ recovering substance abusers, ex-offenders, and others whom would like a chance to do the same entry level work with dignity. UCD must go! Glenn
Re: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
ATTN: University City Listserv RE: UCD and the possible violation of their tax-exempt status I think we're finally getting down to the prescient legal issues about this situation. John Fenton's guilt has already been pronounced by some people off-list, on-list and, judging by his suspension with pay, possibly within UCD. We know nothing specific about any actual legal charge that has been raised against UCD in general or John Fenton specifically. I say John Fenton is innocent until proven guilty. **We have to give Mr. Fenton the benefit of the doubt before passing judgment.** There's still too much circumstantial evidence and testimony that haven't been properly disputed. I would eventually like to hear some new public statement by Mr. Wendell, the director of UCD, about this matter. Lewis Wendell's measured response is a certainly reasonable from a legal standpoint, but to the local community it's still a little disquieting. I've not heard Mr. Wendell at least defend Mr. Fenton's right to explain himself or give full testimony of what happened the day of the rally in Malcolm X Park. If I were a journalist, police detective or district attorney, I'd be sniffing around for more information from the employees of the University City District. This all begins and ends with them and their deposition of what they had intended to due during the Knox rally and why. After they've fully disclosed to the public what it is they were doing, we then have to look at other involved party's like Councilwoman Blackwell. Did Councilwoman Blackwell actually ask for a help or assistance that should not have been coming from a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization? How much does Ms. Blackwell ask UCD to do? and why? **We have to give Mr. Fenton the benefit of the doubt before passing judgment.** Mario Giorno 36 S. 48th Street Philadelphia, PA 19139 [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 5/25/07, Doc Baldy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Does that mean that Walker posted Knox posters or that yellow jackets or even Councilwoman' Blackwell's other volunteers posted Knox posters while Walker set up the moon bounce? I don't believe Walker ever specifically stated that he was directed to hang Knox posters. Cheers, Stephen On 5/25/07, Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The original article in the Daily News says this:Included in the setup were Knox for Mayor posters, which made Walker think this was unusual community service indeed. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 10:24 AM, S. Sharrieff Ali wrote: There is no evidence or statement saying the volunteers participated in promoting or opposing a candidate in any way. -- -- University City Yoga http://www.ucyoga.com
Re: [UC] The IRS on political involvement by tax-exempt organizations
From the article: The next day, they drove us out to Malcom X Park [51st and Osage] and had us unload, inflate the Moon Bounces and set everything up, Walker said. Included in the setup were Knox for Mayor posters, which made Walker think this was unusual community service indeed. Sounds to me like the community service workers did the entire setup. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 03:12 PM, Doc Baldy wrote: Does that mean that Walker posted Knox posters or that yellow jackets or even Councilwoman' Blackwell's other volunteers posted Knox posters while Walker set up the moon bounce? I don't believe Walker ever specifically stated that he was directed to hang Knox posters. Cheers, Stephen On 5/25/07, Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The original article in the Daily News says this:Included in the setup were Knox for Mayor posters, which made Walker think this was unusual community service indeed. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 10:24 AM, S. Sharrieff Ali wrote: There is no evidence or statement saying the volunteers participated in promoting or opposing a candidate in any way. -- -- University City Yoga http://www.ucyoga.com
[UC] Malcolm X Park rally video
Jannie Blackwell said it was a church rally. Well, there *was* a church event there but her rally wasn't part of it. From malcolmxpark.org: http://malcolmxpark.org/?p=51 Tom Knox and Jannie Blackwell Rally in Malcolm X Memorial Park Posted May 13, 2007 at 6:11 pm · Filed under Uncategorized, Park Events On Saturday May 12th, mayoral candidate Tom Knox and his wife Linda were joined by Jannie Blackwell in a political rally. A local pastor had reserved the gazebo for the day, so the rally took place in front of the storage shed. Some sights and sounds from the brief rally: This video is not an endorsement of any candidate!
Re: [UC] self storage
Matthew Snyder wrote: Can anyone recommend a clean, safe, affordable (pick 2 of 3 if necessary) self storage facility in the area? It doesn't have to be in West Philadelphia, but somewhere within a few miles would be good. I'm looking for about 75 square feet. Thanks, Matthew Salutations, gentlefolk, I've had a locker at All-City Self Storage, on Sansom between 55th and 56th, for about two years now. I've found the place kept clean, the workers courteous and competent, the prices among the lowest (and I checked most locations in West Philly and eastern Delco), and the security seems solid. Check it out for yourself, tho. Yours, John Desmond You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
Re: [UC] Malcolm X Park rally video
The most important info on that website is that it is someone's personal blog and not an official website of the park or even the friends of the park. It was certainly irresponsible of channel 6 to imply that this was the website of the park. http://malcolmxpark.org/?page_id=82 The friends site is here: www.malcolmxpark.info Also, neither of the students have said they passed out any campaign info. Given political plastering in West Philadelphia I'm not surprised there were Tom Knox posters in all 4 corners of the park but who knows how long they'd been there, or who put them there. John is getting a raw deal. I hope he stays with UCD but I could imagine a number of private organizations (Drexel, Temple, CC District) would be more than happy to steal him away and are recruiting hard while he's away from UCD. Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Jannie Blackwell said it was a church rally. Well, there *was* a church event there but her rally wasn't part of it. From malcolmxpark.org: http://malcolmxpark.org/?p=51 Tom Knox and Jannie Blackwell Rally in Malcolm X Memorial Park Posted May 13, 2007 at 6:11 pm · Filed under Uncategorized, Park Events On Saturday May 12th, mayoral candidate Tom Knox and his wife Linda were joined by Jannie Blackwell in a political rally. A local pastor had reserved the gazebo for the day, so the rally took place in front of the storage shed. Some sights and sounds from the brief rally: This video is not an endorsement of any candidate! - Food fight? Enjoy some healthy debate in the Yahoo! Answers Food Drink QA.
Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News
I'm with you, Wilma. John Fenton is in an unfortunate situation and predicament. Here's hoping John stays in UCD and this brouhaha goes away as fast as it materialized. - Original Message - From: Wilma de Sotomailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: S. Sharrieff Alimailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ; UnivCity listservmailto:UnivCity@list.purple.com Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2007 6:28 PM Subject: Re: [UC] Tom Fenton on ABC News Actually, if the UCD should want all of us (businesses and residents) eventually to help sustain them and contribute, they should be more open since they are a community-based non-profit. I think John Fenton is the wonderful. I wish he had not been caught up into this chanchuyo.
[UC] Friends of Malcolm X Park web site created TODAY!
Nice try Greg but... THE SUPPOSED FRIENDS OF MALCOLM X PARK WEB SITE WAS CREATED TODAY!!! Domain ID: D18037734-LRMS Domain Name: MALCOLMXPARK.INFO Created On: 25-May-2007 18:58:33 UTC Here's the rest of the whois info: http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/results.jsp? domain=malcolmxpark.info Hilarious. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 07:44 PM, Greg Smith wrote: The most important info on that website is that it is someone's personal blog and not an official website of the park or even the friends of the park. It was certainly irresponsible of channel 6 to imply that this was the website of the park. http://malcolmxpark.org/?page_id=82 The friends site is here: www.malcolmxpark.info Also, neither of the students have said they passed out any campaign info. Given political plastering in West Philadelphia I'm not surprised there were Tom Knox posters in all 4 corners of the park but who knows how long they'd been there, or who put them there. John is getting a raw deal. I hope he stays with UCD but I could imagine a number of private organizations (Drexel, Temple, CC District) would be more than happy to steal him away and are recruiting hard while he's away from UCD. Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Jannie Blackwell said it was a church rally. Well, there *was* a church event there but her rally wasn't part of it. From malcolmxpark.org: http://malcolmxpark.org/?p=51 Tom Knox and Jannie Blackwell Rally in Malcolm X Memorial Park Posted May 13, 2007 at 6:11 pm · Filed under Uncategorized, Park Events On Saturday May 12th, mayoral candidate Tom Knox and his wife Linda were joined by Jannie Blackwell in a political rally. A local pastor had reserved the gazebo for the day, so the rally took place in front of the storage shed. Some sights and sounds from the brief rally: This video is not an endorsement of any candidate! Food fight? Enjoy some healthy debate in the Yahoo! Answers Food Drink QA.
[UC] House numbers on transoms
Many older homes had gold and black house numbers on the transom above the front door. We're interested in restoring ours. If you have info about the fonts and the way the figures were applied, please e-mail -- [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thanks! R. Mimi Iijima _ Like the way Microsoft Office Outlook works? Youll love Windows Live Hotmail. http://imagine-windowslive.com/hotmail/?locale=en-usocid=TXT_TAGHM_migration_HM_mini_outlook_0507 You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
[UC] ...and another thing
Both malcolmxpark.org and malcolmxpark.info are registered at and hosted by the same web host. Also the Friends text on both sites are identical. Frank You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
[UC] The Green Bird
Well! I finally went to see The Green Bird at Curio Theater (on its penultimate DING DING DING night), and frankly, I can't see what all the fuss is about. The jokes, if you can call them jokes, went right over my head although I admit it was slightly amusing to hear young Chelsea Bulack screaming Douchebags! at all the actors and ranting about the pterodactyl in her tummy. Otherwise, I guess you have to had put in your time suffering through at least six previous shows to catch all the nuances, if you can call them nuances. There was lots of stuff about high school prom dancing which was utterly beyond me, since, as an Orthodox Mennonite, I never learned to dance, certainly not the sort of dirty dancing which was on shameful display right smack in the space where we Mennos meet to worship Sunday mornings at 9:00 am. (The Deacons have told me that it's a real pain in the ass to have to come in extra early to exorcise and disinfect the sanctuary.) Seriously, the only thing vaguely cultural about the evening was a few bars of Tristan und Isolde when the Princess and the King were doing a sort of slo-mo love scene, if you can call it a love scene. That and the Disney Animatronix slapstick number, which I could totally relate to, and which sort of brought things up to the level of a Mack Sennett comedy or maybe the Three Stooges. At any rate, word on the street is that Cassidy is smitten by one of the members of the cast, and may apparently be doing it with her. My guess is that it's the Queen Mother, or the Mother Queen -- the one with the pendant DING DING DING bosoms. But perhaps next season will be better. Starting in October they're presenting (I kid you not): Breasts and the Maiden The Buttocks Did It Penis Envy and The Nutcracker. Things can only go up DING DING DING from here. -- Ross Bender http://rossbender.org
Re: [UC] self storage
I hear there's still space open for self storage in the Woodland Cemetery. On 5/25/07, John Desmond [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Matthew Snyder wrote: Can anyone recommend a clean, safe, affordable (pick 2 of 3 if necessary) self storage facility in the area? It doesn't have to be in West Philadelphia, but somewhere within a few miles would be good. I'm looking for about 75 square feet. Thanks, Matthew Salutations, gentlefolk, I've had a locker at All-City Self Storage, on Sansom between 55th and 56th, for about two years now. I've found the place kept clean, the workers courteous and competent, the prices among the lowest (and I checked most locations in West Philly and eastern Delco), and the security seems solid. Check it out for yourself, tho. Yours, John Desmond You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. -- Ross Bender http://rossbender.org
Re: [UC] ...and another thing
On 5/25/07, Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Both malcolmxpark.org and malcolmxpark.info are registered at and hosted by the same web host. Also the Friends text on both sites are identical. Oh what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive. -- Ross Bender http://rossbender.org
[UC] Re: [UC-Announce] Beaumont Porch Sale Items
What is the date, time? Joe Clarke [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Just a detail to spark your interest. Some of the items will be available when you arrive. Children's books, fairy tales, Children's bible Religion - general Catholicism - catechism and other works Boombox style radio Dictionaries Music - CD's Video - DVD VHS Other Goodies to tempting to mention Safe Porch Sailing over to 4800 block of Beaumont Ave You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity-Announce. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see . You may post announcements to this list, but this list attempts to prevent discussion. Please use univcity to discuss messages on this list. Subscribers of univcity receive all mail to this list. - Take the Internet to Go: Yahoo!Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, photos more.
Re: [UC] self storage
If you can get through all the deer. Frank On May 25, 2007, at 10:34 PM, Ross Bender wrote: I hear there's still space open for self storage in the Woodland Cemetery. On 5/25/07, John Desmond [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Matthew Snyder wrote: Can anyone recommend a clean, safe, affordable (pick 2 of 3 if necessary) self storage facility in the area? It doesn't have to be in West Philadelphia, but somewhere within a few miles would be good. I'm looking for about 75 square feet. Thanks, Matthew Salutations, gentlefolk, I've had a locker at All-City Self Storage, on Sansom between 55th and 56th, for about two years now. I've found the place kept clean, the workers courteous and competent, the prices among the lowest (and I checked most locations in West Philly and eastern Delco), and the security seems solid. Check it out for yourself, tho. Yours, John Desmond You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html . -- Ross Bender http://rossbender.org
RE: [UC] The Green Bird
As I was sitting closest to Ross I can perhaps best address this. Upon entering the theater, we were given a bell which we were told to ring if the jokes became too risqué -- this as a signal to the actors that the line betwixt salt and sin was being crossed and the audience felt the icy grip of impending moral denouement. Within the first few minutes one of the characters, dressed as a large, pink, hot dog, uttered a line with the word buttocks in it. Shocked into a state of intense action, Ross immediately clutched for the bell, but in the dark missed by inches and knocked it to the floor where it rolled under a chair across the isle from us -- far from reach. Unfortunately, in rapid succession the same actor uttered the word bosoms and the phrase clean as a whistle, which was used in a manner I'd never imagined before but the salaciousness of which could not be disputed. Ross clutched his chest, gasping a faint but well rehearsed Mennonite oath to ward off evil, and his eyes rolled back into his head. He quickly collapsed into his seat, at which time I espied a phial of what I took to be smelling salts in his breast pocket. I broke it open and waved it under his nose in a puissant dose. Later we discovered that this ampule in fact contained Amyl nitrite, a fierce and powerful drug which Dr. Bender had apparently been self-administering already in somewhat ill-advised amounts. He quickly revived, but I fear he witnessed the rest of the play in a chemical fueled frenzy for which I feel partly (if not wholly) responsible. He seemed at times to have been transported back through the years to a production of Heidi he had seen in his youth and began to weep at the scene where Peter pushes Clara's wheelchair over the cliff. This pageant seemed to replay several times in his fevered mind, as Ross would stand at intervals, waving a penny loafer in the air and shouting No Peter! No Peter! -- which only stirred the actors on stage into bouts of further lasciviousness, thinking they were being egged on in the manner of the bawdy audiences they had come to expect, the theater being so close to such a number of Fraternity Houses. By the end of the evening, Ross was sweat drenched and raving -- the actors said, to a man, that they had never seen a more animated patron and plied him with coupons beseeching him to return to tomorrow nights performance to pepper them once again with the non sequitors which are the very life-blood of this particular show. There were others there from the list who can probably fill in any small details I may have missed. kc -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] on behalf of Ross Bender Sent: Fri 5/25/2007 10:33 PM To: Univcity; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [UC] The Green Bird Well! I finally went to see The Green Bird at Curio Theater (on its penultimate DING DING DING night), and frankly, I can't see what all the fuss is about. The jokes, if you can call them jokes, went right over my head although I admit it was slightly amusing to hear young Chelsea Bulack screaming Douchebags! at all the actors and ranting about the pterodactyl in her tummy. Otherwise, I guess you have to had put in your time suffering through at least six previous shows to catch all the nuances, if you can call them nuances. There was lots of stuff about high school prom dancing which was utterly beyond me, since, as an Orthodox Mennonite, I never learned to dance, certainly not the sort of dirty dancing which was on shameful display right smack in the space where we Mennos meet to worship Sunday mornings at 9:00 am. (The Deacons have told me that it's a real pain in the ass to have to come in extra early to exorcise and disinfect the sanctuary.) Seriously, the only thing vaguely cultural about the evening was a few bars of Tristan und Isolde when the Princess and the King were doing a sort of slo-mo love scene, if you can call it a love scene. That and the Disney Animatronix slapstick number, which I could totally relate to, and which sort of brought things up to the level of a Mack Sennett comedy or maybe the Three Stooges. At any rate, word on the street is that Cassidy is smitten by one of the members of the cast, and may apparently be doing it with her. My guess is that it's the Queen Mother, or the Mother Queen -- the one with the pendant DING DING DING bosoms. But perhaps next season will be better. Starting in October they're presenting (I kid you not): Breasts and the Maiden The Buttocks Did It Penis Envy and The Nutcracker. Things can only go up DING DING DING from here. -- Ross Bender http://rossbender.org
[UC] Community service prisoners
Here is another anger driven policy. While it seems appealing to an angry middle class desire for revenge, this policy designed around public humiliation does little good other than providing free labor and potentially does a good bit of harm. One of the articles covering the illegal UCD actions revealed that this community service is an option to those who plead guilty. This is another type of plea bargain designed to keep the broken justice system processing the lower classes at an accelerating rate. I didn't realize Penn students were now in this system too. First, we should assume that a large percentage of the guilty are in fact innocent. This happens all the time because if you ask for a hearing your punishment will be much more severe. Many vulnerable people can't afford the type of legal help they would need and simply plead guilty. I wonder how many people really believe that the lower classes receive hearings when they contact the criminal justice system? For this group, this punishment which is designed to add public humiliation to the disposition is not going to lead to some repentance but anger. For those that made some transgression against society, it is also ridiculous to assume that the humiliation will lead to repentance. Do we wish to delude ourselves while we get our revenge or consider the more likely response to attempted humiliation? Some may be guilty of crimes such as drinking a non-upscale beer in UCD Park. Maybe some were hanging illegal anti war posters on UCD poles, maybe some were illegally singing in Rittenhouse Square, or playing with a puppy in UCD Park. But again there is no repentance through this community service. I expect to get arrested for quality of life crimes in UCD Park, and I will feel oppressed and not evil because I was playing with my dog and having a beer with the working folks. Now the last group, those with more serious underlying problems. Instead of adding public humiliation to these individuals, this contact with law enforcement could be a time to assess individuals for underlying difficulties and use the opportunity to refer them for the appropriate assistance. From my work with disadvantaged populations, offering literacy and employment services stand out so prominently as a more intelligent, cost-effective policy for society. But that would be a sound policy decision based on evidence and wouldn't be committed to popular anger and revenge. Folks should also think about the reality of having people with undiscovered problems outside their houses receiving this punishment with no supervision. When I saw this last year on Baltimore Ave, I felt very uncomfortable watching this community service. First I saw one of the prisoners surveying a neighbors alley. A couple hours later as I returned with my girlfriend another individual was staring at her very aggressively. Bike riders on Baltimore Ave might remember the day because the refuse they were raking was put in bags and tossed on the bike lane for a long period. I never saw any type of supervision. Except for the free labor, this community service path offers very little good and greatly increases the potential to cause more anger and future damaging behavior. Sure, it satisfies our vindictive cravings to know that these individuals will be publicly humiliated if their friends or neighbors see them in their orange jumpsuits. How long will we demand that our politicians adopt these terrible policies because we're constantly pissed off? UCD must go! Glenn
[UC] .org/.info
I have posted a clarification on the relationship between these two sites here: http://malcolmxpark.org/?p=92 I am still finding my feet as a blogger, so any confusion is owing entirely to my own inept administration. Andrew Quoting Frank [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Both malcolmxpark.org and malcolmxpark.info are registered at and hosted by the same web host. Also the Friends text on both sites are identical. Frank You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html. You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named UnivCity. To unsubscribe or for archive information, see http://www.purple.com/list.html.
