November 13-19, 2003

the bell curve

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

A shortage of surgeons at Hahnemann and a nurses' strike at MCP force both hospitals to close their trauma centers. Patients sigh in relief, ask to go to Jefferson or Pennsylvania. Minus 5

Pew Charitable Trusts wins court approval to become a public charity. The shame of being a private charity was killing them. Plus 4

SEPTA saves $40,000 by not setting up Magical Holiday Railroad model train set at its headquarters this winter. Sadly, that was the only train that ran on time. Minus 1

Stephen Starr offers $1.3 million for the bankrupt Striped Bass. He then offers Neil Stein $5.75 an hour to sweep the joint. Plus 1

Airport director recuses himself from contract talks with vending companies, which his relatives work for. Because they're getting the gig anyway. Plus 1

According to a report by the American Tort Reform Association, Philadelphia is a "judicial hellhole" that invites lawsuits. American Tart Reform Association reports that South Philly is "doing just fine." Minus 4

West Philly Democratic ward leader accused of slapping a doctor outside a polling station on Election Day is charged with simple assault. Only because "dimwitted assault" is not an option. Plus 2

State Supreme Court nixes GOP takeover of Pennsylvania Convention Center. Court instead hands it over to Green Party, which turns it into Biosphere 4. Plus 2

Sam Katz says he knew he would lose. Aw. Even

Total pluses: 10

Total minuses: 10

Score for the week: Even

Last week's score: -4

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