March 4-10, 2004

the bell curve

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

St. Joe’s Hawks go undefeated in regular season. Plus 10

Officials say harsh winter is the reason for poor attendance at the Constitution Center. Or maybe it’s the huge animatronic Sandra Day O’Connor that greets visitors with an ominous, "Beware!" Minus 3

PGW suspects thousands of households taking advantage of a senior discount do so even after the seniors are dead. Well, they get even colder then. Minus 2

After baby seal strands itself on a floating dock at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphians attempt to feed it by throwing hot dogs and steaks. Governor Rendell sees an opportunity, strands himself on the same dock. Plus 1

Handcuffed prostitution suspect steals police van and escapes. Her ad in the back of City Paper now boasts of a mobile office. Plus 5

Inquirer says that the The Real World’s upcoming season in Philly means the city is "cool" now. Dad, you’re such a square. Even

Crime is on the rise around St. Joe’s campus. Well, they sure stole that one from the University of Rhode Island. Minus 1

Center City residents upset they weren’t given much notice of changes in the garbage collection schedule. What’s to change? Every Sunday morning the garbage gets up and staggers back to Jersey ’til next weekend. Minus 1

Mom who thought her baby died in a fire six years ago meets her kidnapped child at a birthday party. Surprise! Plus 10

Total pluses: 26

Total minuses: 7

Score for the week: 19

Last week's score: 7

-- Respond to this article in our Forums -- click to jump there