February 17-23, 2005

the bell curve

The Bell Curve

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

Police officers are instructed to ask their supervisors before forcing entry into a suspect's home. Also encouraged to press doorbell rather than shoot it.
Even

Thousands rally in Harrisburg to demand a solution to the mass transit problem. Woulda been more, but the first bus to Harrisburg wasn't taking any more passengers, and the second one never came.
Plus 3

Hundreds gather to protest cutbacks in library service. Woulda been more, but the first bus to the Parkway … .
Plus 1

Some City Council members have three BlackBerries or five cell phones, all paid for by the city. Well, you know: One for home, one for the office, one to turn over to the feds.
Minus 2

Fire truck attempting a U-turn on I-95 is hit by a tractor trailer, causing a huge explosion and a seven-hour delay. Philly debut of CHiPs Re-enactment Players said to have gone "awesomely."
Plus 1

Daily News cover story on Jose Canseco is headlined "Ernest Hemorroid." "Honest to God," says new editor Michael Days, "we will print the first thing that pops into our heads."
Minus 5

Mayor Street's new budget cancels pickup of large trash items, like old washers and air conditioners, saying citizens will instead have to bring them to drop-off centers. "What's the big deal?" asks Street. "Just throw 'em in the back of your monster truck."
Minus 3

Enormous sinkhole opens up on 15th Street near City Hall. Can we stick our old appliances in it?
Minus 2

Total pluses: 5
Total minuses: 12
This week's total: -7
Last week's total: -11