Nov. 15, 1982: The Philadelphia Inquirer ran an article titled “For The Glory of Phila., Fumo Wants A Top Senate Post” and authored by Bonnie Rodden. In the piece, Fumo plainly lays out his ambitions for a leadership position. Three years later, he was the Minority Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, one of the most coveted positions in Harrisburg. He was either the majority or minority head of that body for roughly the next 22 years, until February 2007.

Although Fumo said some senators have told him they don’t want to change the makeup of the leadership, legislative sources have said some senators may challenge [Minority Leader Edward] Zemprelli and other senators in top positions.

“Once the change starts, I’m not going to sit back,” Fumo said.

Senate sources point out that Fumo has several factors going for him:

* The taint of his conviction on charges of padding the Senate payroll with ghost employees has nearly dissipated in political circles. The conviction was overturned by a federal judge on a technicality and the ruling was upheld in September by a U.S. appeals court.

* Fumo helped elect a Philadelphian, Rep. M. Joseph Rocks, as the only new Democrat in the Senate.

* Senators interested in running for statewide office in the future want to stay on Fumo’s good side because he can deliver South Philadelphia’s votes, particularly in a primary.

At least three senators – Michael O’Pake, Craig Lewis and Robert Mellow - have been mentioned as possible candidates for state treasurer or auditor general.

As Fumo put it: “I don’t think you can ignore my base in South Philly. People are very loyal and we’re very good salesmen.”

It’s safe to say both of those highlighted quotes passed the test of time.

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