July 13-19, 2006
City Beat : The Bell Curve
The Bell CurveCity Paper's weekly gauge of Philly's Quality of Life
Facing mounting debts, the Independence Seaport Museum sells its luxury yacht, the Enticer. Buys a dinghy, christens it the SS They Told Us They Were Developing Penn's Landing. What Happened? Plus 1
Task force finds Philadelphia unprepared for a disaster. Which is surprising, since we've got the recipe. Minus 5
According to a recent survey, Philadelphia ranks 14th when college-educated 25- to 34-year-olds are asked where they want to live. Coming in first place? Amsterdam. Second? White Castle. Minus 2
Phillies owner Bill Giles says Brett Myers, the pitcher who was arrested for spousal abuse, was "trying to help his wife." Kinda like how Gary Heidnik helped those hookers and the Zoo helped all the cute little monkeys. Minus 5
Rick Mariano sentenced to 6 years in jail. Jesus wept. Even
Massage parlor in SW Philly is robbed of $60,000. "I can't wait to blow this wad," says perp. Minus 1
"Philadelphia-style" merry-go-round opens in Franklin Square. When the ride starts, hopes are high. But by the time it's done, all your dreams have been shattered and you're right back where you started. Plus 1
Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard wins the Home Run Derby. Step right up for your free ride on the Philly-style merry-go-round, Mr. Howard. Plus 3
Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro has "potentially serious" complications and isn't healing properly. If things don't improve, trainers may call in Brett Myers to help the horse out. Minus 4
Total pluses: 5
Total minuses: 17
This week's total: -12
Last week's total: 4