February 12-18, 2004

the bell curve

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

Sydney Dance Co. performs in Philly without sets after their luggage is detained by Homeland Security. Local performance artists rejoice that someone still considers art dangerous. Minus 1

Phillie Phanatic's head is stolen at Vet Stadium charity sale. And with that, the unknown thief moves ahead of Pat Burrell on the all-time steals list. Minus 1

At least 80 guests at Loews Hotel suffer stomach illness. Hotel issues statement, saying, "We're just amazed that we had 80 customers." Minus 3

Mayor Street gives away his two Great Danes. Little Milton is still up for adoption. Even

Flyers trade away promising young center Mike Comrie for 37-year-old goalie and ex-Flyer Sean Burke. Still, he's the youngest guy on the team. Minus 7

Sixers fire coach Randy Ayers. Billy King throws him a goodbye luncheon at Loews. Plus 1

Philly Soul, Jon Bon Jovi's arena football team, loses its home opener. Yeah, but can they repeat the feat in the playoffs? Minus 1

Suspicious powder found in Center City hotel, originally thought to be anthrax, turns out to be the baking soda a guest used to brush his teeth. Doesn't anyone do coke anymore? Plus 1

Comcast proposes to buy Walt Disney Co. Soon, kids at the Magic Kingdom will be greeted by Goofy, Donald and Lynn Doyle. Plus 1

Flyers goalie Jeff Hackett retires due to vertigo. "But I'm planning on reacquiring him in a couple of years," says Bob Clarke. Minus 4

Total pluses: 3

Total minuses: 17

Score for the week: -14

Last week's score: -24