Also this issue: Did Feds Foil Terrorist Plot Against Bell? FBI says no way, but several sources claim that park rangers and FBI saved the day. -Howard Altman and Brendan McGarvey Time's Up? A 10-year-old program that gives young offenders a chance to wipe their records clean is in dire need of volunteers. -Mary F. Patel Don't Go Away Angry -Daniel Brook Meet the Press -Daniel Brook Bin There, Done That Will collecting trash and recyclables on the same day keep materials out of the landfill? -Gwen Shaffer

June 27-July 3, 2002

the bell curve

The Bell Curve

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

92-year-old woman says SEPTA paratransit driver kneed her in the back to force her off a van. Adds that she's never been treated so well by a SEPTA employee. Minus 5

Handcuffed drug suspect takes off with police car and escapes. Police confident he'll turn up in Mountain Dew commercial sooner or later. Minus 1

City lifts water-use restrictions as drought nears end. Society Hill Towers residents celebrate end of their "suffering" as fountain is turned back on. Plus 5

New political action committee exploring scenarios for ousting John Street in next mayor's race. Andrew Hohns turned away at the door. Plus 1

After 10 years, Old City business Mr. Barstool cited by city for displaying Elvis and Blues Brothers statues on sidewalk without permit. Also, the kids in Three Bears Park are playing Ghost in the Graveyard all wrong. Minus 3

Activists from Bella Vista organize grassroots summit on giving city residents more "reasons to stay." Unfortunately, the top reason to stay in Bella Vista -- housing prices are through the friggin' roof -- is also the top reason to leave. Plus 1

City's memorial to Korean War veterans dedicated. Most overheard remark at event: "You know, the one on M*A*S*H." Plus 1

Crime rates down in Philly, despite increase nationally. Fewer residents, fewer crimes -- why is this a surprise? Plus 6

Total pluses: 14

Total minuses: 9

Score for the week: 5

Last week’s score: 1