September 4-10, 2003

the bell curve

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

Unlit firebomb is tossed into Sam Katzís North Philly headquarters. Looks like Operation Light Fuse could use some more funding. Minus 5

SEPTA officials puzzled by mysterious water bottles placed in Broad Street line subway stations. Above ground, bus drivers are puzzled by funny red lights and bicyclists who just wonít die. Even

Police bust Asian sex parlors in Northeast Philly. In other news, City Paper ad revenue is down this week. Minus 2

Remote-controlled airplanes may no longer be welcome in Northeast Philly park. "Unless," says City Council, "you let us all have a turn." Minus 1

Mayor Street proposes a grace period for illegal drivers, giving them 45 days to become legal drivers. Angel Ortiz asks how many days are in 25 years. Even

Catholic schoolteachers from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia go on strike. City contemplates hiring corporate nuns. Minus 2

The financially troubled Phlash ceases operations until spring. It was last seen crying at Pennís Landing where SEPTA officials berated it with taunts of "Why canít you be more like the Duck?" Even

City ponders traffic problems outside the Linc. The latest plan is to pave over the subway stop to create more parking spots. Minus 1

Total pluses: 0

Total minuses: -11

Score for the week: -11

Last week’s score: -24

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