Also this issue: The Battle of Fort Mifflin The city is miffed over a website -- created by the fort’s executive director -- which takes potshots at the airport and Osama. -Daryl Gale Love Story A jailed mobster mulls suicide to help the woman he loves land a movie deal. -Howard Altman Safe Streets Fallout 17th District cops want the public to know they are out there. -Daryl Gale Debt and Taxes The BRT and City Councilman Frank DiCicco are at war over the recent property tax hike. -Jenn Carbin Judicious -Mary F. Patel In Black and White The Daily News draws fire for a cover some found racist. -Deborah Bolling

September 12-18, 2002

the bell curve

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

National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running endorses use of cameras at intersections in Philly. "Will the photos be available for purchase?" asks spokesperson for SEPTA bus drivers. Plus 2

Eagles play poorly enough to squander two-touchdown halftime lead in season opener. Chants of "P-H-I-L-L-I-E-S" heard in the upper deck. Minus 4

Blue Cross executives defend practice of raising rates while sitting on multibillion-dollar surpluses. "The rates will go down," say execs, "when everybody puts on their helmets." Minus 1

Two years after house-sale scam was revealed by the Daily News, city finally begins to take action. That's how long it takes to use the philly.com archives. Plus 1

Despite drought, the worst in decades, city again asks state for exemption from water-use rules. "Monster trucks don't wash themselves," explains Mayor Street. Minus 5

Teen whose brutal beating of a pit bull was caught on a surveillance camera can't be tried as an adult, judge rules. In related news, pit bulls lobby to have teens put down. Minus 1

City's technology czar promises major improvements to city website. Says spokesperson: "We think people will really enjoy the new Thacher Longstreth Death Watch." Plus 1

Cop sues Eagles kick returner Brian Mitchell, saying he injured her when she ended a four-month affair. "That was in the first two months of the relationship," says Mitchell. "I didn't do anything at all noteworthy in the second half." Minus 1

Several people injured when hot dog cart explodes during festival on Market Street. Says one survivor, "I haven't seen that many wieners since the Fringe show I went to last night." Minus 1

Total pluses: 4

Total minuses: 13

Score for the week: -9

Last score: 10