Also this issue:

Biker Wars
The holidays were a festive time for mobsters of all stripes.
-Brendan McGarvey

Walker in Suburbia
Inky Editor Lundy sees a bright future in the hinterlands.
-Deborah Bolling

Soundbites
-Deborah Bolling

Supreme Courting
-Mary F. Patel

January 16-22, 2003

the bell curve

City Paper's weekly gauge of Philly's Quality of Life

At least 13 groups have opted not to visit Philly because of unresolved labor issues and other problems with the Convention Center, the Daily News reports. Warren Sapp says that's also why he never shows up for a game here. Minus 6

School District says disruptive students -- and their parents -- now will have to attend classes on Saturdays. Inspired, John Hughes rounds up The Breakfast Club cast and their kids for a sequel. Plus 2

During playoff game, fan gets all the way to Eagles bench and sits next to Donovan McNabb before being spotted by security. Warren Sapp calls and offers money to man to learn his secret for getting close to McNabb. Minus 1

Motorcycle and bike cops surround field at end of Eagles' nationally televised playoff win over Atlanta. Philadelphia, the place that -- "sit the fuck DOWN!" Minus 2

Business leaders pressure mayor to reopen Chestnut Street in front of Independence Hall. If assholes from Jersey can't blare shitty techno while cruising Chestnut in their SUVs on their way to scope the hotties at Marmont, then the terrorists have already won. Plus 3

After spending $23,000 in taxpayer money on lawyers, city judges opt not to pursue complaint against D.A. Lynne Abraham for past criticisms. "She scares us," one judge admits. Plus 1

State Rep. Dwight Evans says he may challenge Mayor Street in the primary. We don't doubt he'll run, but "challenge" may be too strong a word. Plus 1

Cop allegedly attacks inspector, two captains and two lieutenants before his own Police Board of Inquiry hearing. Warren Sapp calls him too. Minus 1

Total pluses: 7

Total minuses: 10

Score for the week: -3

Last week’s score: -2