July 14-20, 2005

the bell curve

The Bell Curve

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

Pennsylvania workers ranked #8 in the nation in workplace slacking, wasting 2.6 hours per day and $43 billion in salary. And that's just Phillies games.
Minus 3

$25,000 bas-relief angel sculpture stolen from the side of a Locust Street townhouse. In related news, somewhat less valuable Fishtown Municipal Beeramid toppled.
Minus 1

Penn's 2005-2006 freshman class will include 139 hometown students, the highest number in decades. "Don't get excited," say new students, "we're leaving the minute we graduate."
Plus 4

In response to London transit attacks, the Ben Franklin Bridge's pedestrian walkway will be closed indefinitely. Terrorists hate freedom so much they don't even want us watching the Riversharks for free.
Even

New study suggests that walking on cobblestones improves balance and lowers blood pressure. This study brought to you by Ankle Surgeons of America.
Plus 2

He's not complaining, but John Street estimates Live 8 cost the city around $500,000. "We'll make up that deficit in library cutbacks by November," beams Street.
Even

Councilman Nutter questions the ethical judgment in Milton Street benefitting from a no-bid Live 8 vending contract. Isn't it adorable how Nutter can still feign surprise at this kinda thing?
Minus 3

Condos to be built on Pier 34, site of the Club Heat tragedy. Real estate experts expect the condos' prices to hold steady for a while before plummeting suddenly.
Even

Phillies' Bobby Abreu wins All-Star Game home run derby, shattering several event records in the process. "I just pictured Howard Eskin's face on every ball," says Abreu.
Plus 7

Total pluses: 13
Total minuses: -7
This week's total: 6
Last week's total: 10