The Bell Curve

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

Strawbridge's name may not survive department store merger. Go toward the light! Give our best to Gimbel's and Wanamaker's and Lit Brothers!
Minus 1

Temple's John Chaney removes himself from Atlantic 10 tournament. "And I spent most of the morning trying to break my own arm," he adds.
Even

Kimmel Center leaders say impending competition from Clear Channel will compound its budget woes. "Of course, that won't be a problem once we start selling $4 SuperPretzels and $8 beers in cello-shaped cups," says Christoph Eschenbach.
Minus 3

Ed Rendell secures $412 million in federal highway money to stabilize SEPTA and avoid rate hike. When you're spending $412 million just to fix your transit system, it's time to buy a new one.
Plus 5

The Philadelphia Phlash resumes operations after winter hibernation. "This money's just burning a hole in our pockets," says SEPTA to Phlash. "And you're so cute. Can we buy you?"
Even

Y100 changes format and staff. Thousands of Jersey kids blink, look around and wonder where they know the word Hoobastank from.
Plus 2

Philadelphia University alum wins Bravo reality show Project Runway. Meanwhile, Drexel alum wins studio apartment from Project H.O.M.E.
Plus 3

Some Philadelphia residents complain their streets were not plowed after Monday's snowstorm. Street encourages complainers to "ski on over" and say it to his face.
Minus 1

This winter, PennDOT has only spent 60 percent of the $21.3 million budget for snow removal in the five-county Philadelphia area. Looks like that whole "not plowing" plan has worked like a charm.
Plus 1

Total pluses: 11
Total minuses: 5
This week's total: 6
Last week's total: -4