August 25-31, 2005
the bell curve
The Bell CurveCity Paper's weekly gauge of Philly's Quality of Life
Man who tipped police off in the LaToyia Figueroa case could get $100,000 if Stephen Poaches is convicted. And look at you and your broke ass in that "Stop Snitching" T-shirt.
Plus 5
50 Cent sues Gary Barbera for using his name and picture to sell Dodges. Is Barbera depressed? Boy, I guess!
Minus 1
New York is apparently in the midst of a cheesesteak boom. Or as we the citizens of Philadelphia like to call them, Sixth Borough Subs.
Even
For the fourth year in a row, the city's public schools improved in state math and reading test scores. Unfortunately, those statistics were compiled by city high school seniors.
Plus 2
Still, only a third of students are reading at or above their grade level. The rest are projected to go on to be Daily News readers. Or writers. Aw, snap.
Minus 2
Inky reports artists priced out of Old City and Northern Liberties are now setting up in a tiny neighborhood called "Port Fishington." Philadelphia Weekly announces real estate boom in Queenwark Bellasport.
Even
Residential recycling in the city is way down. Curby Bucket, why hast thou forsaken us?
Minus 5
Two breeds of invasive insects are threatening to converge on Philly. That's right, folks, it's back-to-school time at UArts and Moore.
Minus 1
Total pluses: 7
Total minuses: 9
This week's total: -2
Last week's total: 12
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