Also this issue: Risque Business Was it fetish phobia or money woes that killed off a popular lesbian burlesque? -Daryl Gale Warpath: Cool Hand Bill -Daniel Brook Open To The Public -Daryl Gale Strike Two -Mary F. Patel

April 10-16, 2003

the bell curve

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

School District¹s zero-tolerance violence policy not applied consistently, Inquirer reports. It¹s the new math, a spokesperson explains. Minus 2

Police commissioner to appoint 32 new commanders. Somebody's got to drive all those SUVs. Plus 1

Owner of South Philly exotic car business indicted for fraud. Of course, in South Philly "exotic" means it has Pennsylvania tags. Plus 1

Pat Croce's brother, Vince, admits he helped defraud Blue Cross out of millions. Pat admits he's felt better. Plus 1

Cops investigating case of body that was missing organs consult expert on occult. Joss Whedon and Sarah Michelle Gellar confused by request. Minus 1

City Hall clock tower to remain closed, for security reasons. Mayor's had a funny look in his eye ever since getting that new rifle. Minus 1

Local Civil War historians and enthusiasts already planning for 2011-2015 sesquicentennial. Plan to spend next five years just explaining what sesquicentennial means. Plus 1

Daily News "investigates" anonymous gay sex in public restrooms. Story preceded by heated newsroom debates -- over whether to call an anonymous source "Deep Throat." Minus 3

Phils pummeled by Pirates, 9-1, in home opener. See Bell Curve from this week last year. And year before that, and year before that Minus 1

Unusual April snowstorm hits Philly. Damn you, Saddam! Minus 5

Total pluses: 4

Total minuses: 13

Score for the week: -9

Last week’s score: -3