June 24-30, 2004

the bell curve

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

There's $30 million in artwork hanging in Philly schools, says Inquirer. And it's all on the refrigerators in the teachers' lounges.
Plus 1

Philadelphia is no longer on Black Enterprise magazine's list of 10 best cities for African-Americans to live. Despite slight, most Philadelphians still agree that Black Enterprise could be the show that saves the Star Trek franchise.
Minus 4

Two bus accidents in one day leaves 47 Septa riders injured. More than 100 have already filed lawsuits.
Minus 2

The fire department will cutback its ladder and engine companies, and add medic units. Well, with fewer people fighting fires we probably will need some more ambulances.
Minus 2

Al Gore comes to town, praises local students for their environmental activities. His endorsement immediately reduces their electability for class president.
Plus 2

The city will buy a $500,000 boat to clean its rivers. Al Gore applies to be the captain.
Plus 1

Septa still hasn't installed its promised emergency callboxes in its subways, says Daily News. And the ones they have only accept tokens.
Minus 7

Study says Philadelphia is doing more to prevent heat deaths than any other city. Club Heat deaths however …
Plus 5

City will unveil statue of Wilt Chamberlain on Monday. The immediate Chamberlain family will rent out the Spectrum for a private party.
Plus 13

Total pluses: 22
Total minuses: 15
This week's total: 7
Last week's total: 390