Harrisburg Happening

Monday, July 31, 2006

Crime blotter

Well, seems not all the crime is homegrown. A West Shore couple have been active in Harrisburg, too according to the Patriot:

"Five charged in city burglaries, robberiesFour people were arrested by city police over the weekend on robbery charges, and a fifth person was arrested as a suspect in a series of midtown burglaries. Frank Clark, 36, of the 2600 block of North Sixth Street, was arrested in connection with two burglaries Saturday in the midtown, police said. After Clark tried to enter a home in the 1200 block of North Second Street and the residents called police, officers found Clark in a backyard nearby with a bag of items stolen earlier in the day from a home in the 100 block of Boas Street, police said.Clark is charged with burglary, criminal mischief, criminal attempted burglary, loitering and prowling, public drunkenness, receiving stolen property, and motor vehicle code charges. Mayor Stephen R. Reed said police believe Clark might be responsible for more burglaries in the midtown in recent months.Police also arrested Corey Jordon, 21, of Philadelphia, in connection with the June 3 robbery of a 26-year-old Allison Hill man.Jordan and an unidentified accomplice reportedly robbed the man of his wallet at gunpoint just after 1 a.m. near South 13th and Derry streets, police said. The victim waved down a passing police car and the officers chased the pair, capturing Jordan after a lengthy foot chase. Police said they found a weapon used in the robbery. The accomplice got away. Jordan, who police called a suspect in several robberies, has been charged with two counts each of robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery and possession of drug paraphernalia. City police have charged a West Shore couple accused of robbing a 30-year-old Elizabethtown woman at 12:45 p.m. June 22 at Kline Plaza shopping center. Police siad William Stuart Watson, 35, of Mount Holly Springs, stole the woman's wallet and left the scene in a white vehicle driven ty Michelle Marie Dagneau, 28.Watson and Dagneau were arrested July 7 by Camp Hill police after a purse snatching outside the Giant Food Store on Trindle Road. The two later admitted to arresting officers that they had committed the Kline Plaza robbery, police said.Watson and Dagneau were charged with two counts of robbery, one count each of conspiracy to commit robbery, forgery, fraud and related charges. More charges will be filed against them in Cumberland County, police said.

Patriot News on crime

Well, not the Patriot seems to have concluded there is nothing but crime in Midtown. Their reporter creates the impression people come home at night and barricade themselves in. There has to be a happy medium in reporting, and the Patriot can't find it.

For the record, I did the following yesterday (Sunday) I took a walk from my home to the river, up Verbeke and down Green and didn't run into a single assailant. Then I drove to Muench Street, got out of my (conspicuous by its large size ) SUV and looked at a series of open houses in the 1900 block of Green. Again, no assailants, no drug dealers on the corner, no problems.

Then, well after dark, I walked my dog (little white fluffy French dog) several blocks. No sirens, no criminals, no trouble.

Come on folks, we don't need to live in total fear. This is an over-reaction. Yes, we need information, we need police presence, but this isn't Beirut or Bagdad.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/115431274792810.xml&coll=1

Friday, July 28, 2006

We are not alone

According to USA Today, there is a resurgence in crime in many cities, perhaps tied to more gang activity. Maybe our small size and the new outpouring of public support for efforts to reduce crime in our area will mean we have a good chance of making a big impact locally.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-07-27-street-crimes_x.htm

Thursday, July 27, 2006

"Struggling" City Schools buy building

Well, folks, the Harrisburg School District may be in a budget crunch and wants to sell a school to condo developers, but they are also on a property buying spree. Consider this news bulletin from the Patriot.


"The Harrisburg School District will no longer be a tenant at the downtown campus its SciTech High program shares with Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. The city school district isn’t moving the popular science and technology high school. Thursday night, the Board of Control approved buying the lab-laden building at 215 Market St. from the university for $12.5 million.

Readership Increasing

I've been crunching some numbers, and the regular readership is increasing nicely. Quite a few Harrisburgers have this blog bookmarked or on their favorite blog lists. Thanks one and all.

This started as an experiment, and I will continue to post provocative and what I hope are interesting insights into all that is life in Harrisburg. I'm also moving on to develop my other personal blogs (codebluemalpractice.blogspot.com and crescentcityrising.blogspot.com)

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Milton the Censor is . . . .

I think Steve Ibanez the PennLive editor. Yesterday, someone posted a question asking Steve whether he could please respond to an email requesting a new forum. I responded by saying Ibanez doesn't answer email or return calls. The poster was then critical of PennLive, pointing out that readers who log on are a valuable commodity. I suggested he start his own blog like we had to, and told him our posts would probably be removed. And presto! Tonight our posts are gone. Me thinks Steve is Milton and doesn't want any criticism.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Harrisburg arrests

Courtesy Jennifer Storm, who is on the distribution list. Where will they put them all?

NEWS INFORMATION FROM
THE OFFICE OF MAYOR STEPHEN R. REED
The City of Harrisburg
10 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1678 FOR IMMEDIATE USE
Contact: (717) 255.3040 25 July 2006
Fax: 255.3036

23 ADDITIONAL SUSPECTS ARRESTED ON
ROBBERY, BURGLARY& OTHER CHARGES

Harrisburg, PA – Mayor Stephen R. Reed today reported the arrests of 14 adults and 9 juveniles on robbery, burglary, firearms violations, drug, assault and other charges in connection with city robberies and burglaries dating back to last year, with nearly all of them being repeat offenders. The arrests are the result of on-going police saturation operations and investigations.

The arrests are in addition to the 11 suspects announced last Friday, which included 5 adults and 6 juveniles.

(1) Two city juveniles, ages 14 and 17, have been charged with single counts of robbery for an incident that occurred on February 5, 2005, near 15th and Swatara Streets. The pair donned ski masks and black hats and stole the purse of a city woman who was exiting a corner grocery store. The 17-year old suspect struck the woman in the face and grabbed her purse while the 14-year old acted as a look-out. Both are now in custody.

(2) A 17-year old juvenile of the first block of Summit Street has been charged
with the April 11, 2006 robbery of a city man in the 1200 block of Block Alley. The suspect and an as yet unidentified accomplice stole money from
the victim, who was uninjured in the attack. Police continue to search for
the juvenile’s accomplice in the crime.

(3) Hector Baez-Cosmo, age 20, of the 1300 block of Derry Street, has been charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Crack Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of a Firearm after undercover officers observed him striking his girlfriend near the intersection of 13th & Derry Streets on July 7, 2006. It was the second week in a row that Baez-Cosmo was arrested in possession of an illegal weapon.



-- more --



Page Two – 23 ARRESTED

(4) Michael Chavis, age 38, of the 1200 block of Bailey Street, has been charged
with Armed Robbery for his part in robbing two women in the 1700 block
of N. 17th Street on July 8, 2006. A 16-year old juvenile has previously been
arrested in the case, during which cellphones and purses were stolen and the
victims were indecently assaulted. Both suspects face additional charges for
other robberies they committed around the same time.

(5) Three juveniles, one 15-years old and two aged 17, have been charged with
the July 12, 2006 robbery of another 17-year old youth near 19th and
Brookwood Streets. All three of the suspects are currently on probation for
previous crimes and were wearing court-ordered ankle bracelets when they
accosted the victim. Each now faces new charges of Robbery and Conspiracy
to Commit Robbery. The arrest of one of the 17-year old suspects was
reported last week.

(6) A 17-year old juvenile of the 200 block of N. 14th Street faces adult charges for armed robbery and conspiracy stemming from a July 13, 2006 robbery of two men in the 1400 block of Fulton Street. The juvenile and a yet to be identified accomplice, armed with an assault rifle, were cruising city streets looking for victims to rob when they came upon the victims just after Midnight.

(7) Jamal Cooper, 18, of the 500 block of Maclay Street, was arrested in the 500
block of Forrest Street on July 14, 2006, following a shots fired call. Cooper fled into a nearby home when police arrived, where the officers found him hiding in a kitchen, holding a bag of crack cocaine. Cooper struggled with the arresting officers and a .40 caliber pistol dropped from his waistband. He is now charged with single counts each of Possession with Intent to Deliver, Resisting Arrest, Carrying an Illegal Firearm, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

During this incident several bystanders attempted to intervene and defied
police orders to disperse, while also screaming obscenities at the responding
officers. Additionally charged were Jennifer Slaughter, age 18, charged with
a single count of Obstruction of Law Enforcement; Train Walker, age 19,
charged Obstruction of Law Enforcement, Disorderly Conduct, and
Trespassing; Christopher Slaughter, age 22, charged with False
Identification to Law Enforcement and Disorderly Conduct; and Tracy
Latham, age 19, charged with Disorderly Conduct.



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Page Three – 23 ARRESTED

(8) Christopher Slaughter, age 22, of the 2100 block of Green Street, has been
charged with illegal possession of a firearm and parole violations following
a July 14, 2006 incident in the 500 block of Forrest Street. Already being
sought for parole violations, Slaughter was found in possession of an illegal
firearm and also had a portable scanner tuned to city police frequencies. A
relative of Slaughter’s, 19-year old Tyhmia Drew, was also arrested during
the incident on a single count of Tampering with Evidence for helping the
suspect hide his illegal firearm when police entered the home.

(9) Celestino Arvelo, age 19, of the 1500 block of Swatara Street, and a 14-year
old juvenile have been charged with single counts of burglary in connection
with a July 18, 2006 incident in the 200 block of S. 13th Street, where police
found the pair removing building renovation materials from the property.

(10) Andre Hall, age 33, of the 1800 block of Penn Street, has been charged
with parole violations and is a prime suspect in a series of recent midtown thefts and burglaries. Officers engaged in a Midtown undercover saturation
operation observed Hall and an accomplice casing homes and vehicles
for thefts and burglaries on July 18, 2006.

(11) Adam Naftzinger, age 23 of the 100 block of Fishburn Street in Lower
Paxton Twp., was charged with multiple counts following an incident in the
1600 block of N. 3rd Street on July 19, 2006 in which he pointed a gun at
another person. Already being sought on outstanding warrants, Naftizinger
has now been additionally charged with Former Convict Not To Possess
Firearm,Terroristic Threats, Simple Assault, Possession of Cocaine, and
other firearms violations, and a 9 mm. handgun was recovered. 23-year old
Paul Blom, of Penbrook, was also charged with Hindering Apprehension
during the incident for his refusal to acknowledge that Naftzinger was
hiding inside the house and that he had been with him moments earlier.

(12) Carlton Williams, age 38 of Susquehanna Twp., has been charged with
Burglary and Possession of Crack Cocaine in connection with a July 21,
2006 incident in the 200 block of Hillside Road. A resident returning home
found his front door ajar and Williams still inside. The resident and a
neighbor detained Williams until police arrived.



-- more --



Page Four – 23 ARRESTED

(13) Joandaba Cosigo, age 25, of Allentown, has been charged with one count of
robbery for his July 21, 2006, theft of a cellphone from a man walking on
the Mulberry Street Bridge. Cosigo ran up behind the victim and grabbed
the phone from his waistband. The victim notified a passing police officer,
who arrested Cosigo seconds later on the ramp down to Cameron Street.

Reed said further saturation patrols and intensive on-going investigations are expected to result in the arrests of additional suspects, as well as additional charges against those already arrested.

###

NEWS INFORMATION FROM
THE OFFICE OF MAYOR STEPHEN R. REED
The City of Harrisburg
10 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1678 FOR IMMEDIATE USE
Contact: (717) 255.3040 21 July 2006
Fax: 255.3036

ARRESTS MADE IN SERIES OF CITY
ROBBERIES & HOME INVASIONS

Harrisburg, PA – Mayor Stephen R. Reed today announced that city police have arrested ten different individuals in connection with eight different robberies and home invasions that occurred over the past two months. The suspects include five adults and six juveniles, including two 14-year olds and a 15-year old.

Reed said intensive police investigations have been underway for a number of different home burglaries, invasions, cab driver robberies and muggings involving separate suspects in each. Most of the investigations remain open and ongoing and additional arrests and charges are expected.

- 19-year old Charles Bibbs, of the 2100 block of Moore Street, and a 17-year old Peffer Street resident have each been charged with Robbery, Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Reckless Endangerment in connection with a robbery that occurred May 26 in the 2300 block of Logan Street. The pair, joined by two other suspects still being sought, robbed four people sitting on a porch and took a cellphone from one of the victims. None of the victims were injured in the robbery, during which the suspects fired several shots into the air.

- 20-year old Tasia Layton-Jackson, of the 6300 block of Ann Street in Susquehanna Twp., has been charged with one count each of Burglary, Robbery, Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary in connection with a June 30 home invasion in the 100 block of Summit Street. Layton-Jackson and three accomplices entered the home around 1:30 a.m. and tied up a male occupant before robbing he and a female occupant of cash, an unregistered hand- gun, cellphone and approximately 6 ounces of cocaine, which they later sold on the street. None of the victims were injured, and charges are pending against Layton-Jackson’s accomplices in the robbery, including 24-year old Bradley J. Jackson, of the 2200 block of Rudy Road, 24-year old Christopher J. Raye, of the 400 block of Muench Street, and Tyron T. Stewart, age 28, of the 1100 block of Mulberry Street.


-- more --


Page Two – CITY ROBBERY ARRESTS

- 18-year old Audury Davis, of the 2700 block of Green Street, has been charged with Receiving Stolen Property, in connection with a July 7 home invasion in the 2200 block of Brookwood Street, during which a small amount of cash, cellphones, jewelry and sneakers were stolen. The suspect was identified when he tried to sell the stolen jewelry at a local pawn shop. None of the victims in the robbery were injured, and police continue to look for an accomplice of Davis, who is yet to be identified. Additional charges are likely to be filed against Davis as well.

- 37-year old Sylvester Bitting, no current address, has been charged with Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in connection with a July 11 home invasion in the 1500 block of S. 13th Street. Bitting and an accomplice entered the home shortly after 3 a.m. and rousted two female occupants, taking a cellphone and sneakers from the residence. The victims were uninjured. The accomplice remains unidentified and at-large.

- Two city juveniles, one 14 years of age and another 15 years of age, have been charged with Robbery and Conspiracy to Engage in Robbery for their robbery of a cab driver near Kline Plaza on July 12. The pair were part of a trio of youth that climbed into the cab and stole a small amount of cash from the driver, who was not injured in the attack. Police continue to search for the third juvenile involved in the robbery.

- A 17-year old juvenile suspect of the 1500 block of Berryhill Street has been charged with single counts of Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in connection with the attempted robbery of a 17-year old youth on July 12 near 19th and Brookwood Streets. The suspect, on probation for earlier crimes and wearing an ankle monitoring bracelet, along with two other juvenile suspects still being sought and also wearing ankle bracelets, were attempting to rob the youth when other witnesses passed by and stopped them and called police. Responding units saw the trio and were able to capture the suspect after a brief foot choice. His two juvenile accomplices have been identified and charges are pending against them as well.

- 28-year old Eric Lamont Ross, of the 400 block of Woodbine Street, has been charged with a single count of robbery in connection with the July 17 robbery of a Grantville woman. The victim was leaving a friend’s house in the 2000 block of Penn Street when Ross jumped into her vehicle and stole her purse from the front seat. Ross got away with the purse and her cellphone.


-- more --



Page Three – CITY ROBBERY ARRESTS

- A 14-year old suspect has been charged with a single count of Theft by Unlawful Taking in connection with the purse snatching from a cab driver in the 1200 block of S. 13th Street on July 19. The suspect, a Hall Manor resident, has also been charged in connection with the July 12 robbery of a cabdriver at Kline Plaza. Additional charges are pending against his accomplices in the case, who are likely the same as those sought or already charged in connection with the Kline Village robbery, and the trio may also be responsible for a series of other recent cab driver robberies on Allison Hill.

Reed said that even though arrests have been made in these cases, many additional suspects are expected to face charges in the coming weeks, and additional robberies, home invasions and other crimes are likely to be solved as more arrests are made. Police continue to investigate all of the cases and are making substantial headway in tying different crimes together with those so far arrested.

“In virtually every instance,” said Mayor Reed, “those arrested have extensive prior criminal histories, yet they remain on our streets to prey upon the innocent. We will pursue the strongest possible penalties against all.”

###

Other city approaches to crime

Courtesy of PennLive member Change4Hbg, here's a list of other cities that report on crime:

803.3. Tid bits and comparisons... by Change4Hbg, 7/25/06 14:48 ET Re: Mayor comments on WHP 580 this mroning by cd3, 7/25/06
The State of Connecticut has a great website with information released on the good, bad and indifferent of their police activity .
http://www.ct.gov/dps/cwp/view.asp?a=2152&q=294376
Oconomowoc , Wisconsin (?!) even has a link provided on their website to their online newspaper which is allowed to provide their city with the current police reports, etc.
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?brd=1402&pag=460&dept_ID=173494
The city of Sacramento provides info on their police activity
http://www.sacpd.org/press/
etc…etc…etc…
I’ve also thought about the idea that Randy King may be considered the Public Information Officer even if that's not his official title, however upon further look at the true title, and what we’re all requesting of our small city is:
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
PURPOSE:
To provide clear, impartial and effective method of disseminating police information to the public and the news media; to ensure the accuracy and consistency of information; and to prevent disclosure of information that might adversely affect any individual or and criminal or civil court proceedings. (That doesn’t mean we don’t get to know about the crime, just the victims, evidence, etc, in response to Reed mentioning that they withhold info to protect.)
The Public Information Officer (P.I.O.) serves as the liaison between the Department and the public to promote public relations by:
• Assisting in handling crisis situations in the Department.
• Assisting news personnel in covering news stories as they pertain to public safety.
• Coordinating and authorizing the release of information about victims, witnesses and suspects.
• Coordinating and authorizing the release of information concerning confidential investigations and operations, as directed by the Chief of Police.
• Serve as a liaison between the Police Department and other City departments, as necessary.
Or perhaps all we need is the positive backing of our city and the police department, like the city of Macon in Georgia
http://www.maconpd.com/youth/cop.asp

Another (stupid) approach

Look how the Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi is handling crime. Can't say I like his approach, either. We don't need Rambo or our own ostrich. We need sensible policies and information.

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/us/AP-Jackson-Crime.html

Monday, July 24, 2006

Patriot News Editorial

Finally, the Patriot News is speaking out on disclosure from Reed and King. Their editorial confirms what I have long suspected - that the news media isn't getting the information it needs, either.

But here's where I differ with the editorial. Yes, the city should be forthcoming. But asking nicely won't work. It is the press' job to push, not ask. Use the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law, and sue for the information. If it is important for the Patriot to get access to Joe Paterno's salary, it's also important to get access to crime statistics. Sue 'em.

http://www.pennlive.com/editorials/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/opinion/1153522524132200.xml&coll=1

Stupid Crime Fighting Ideas

Just got an email from Jennifer Storm, the Executive Director Victim/Witness Assistance Program of Dauphin County (copied below)

Yessiree - ice cream and dunking tanks will take a bite out of crime. This is theater of the absurd. What we need are cops on the street and accurate reporting by precinct and neighborhood.


"Hello Everyone~

I hope this email finds you all doing well. I wanted to apprise you all of an upcoming event on Tuesday August 1st. Please see the attached flyer. We are hoping to get as many residents of Midtown out to this event as possible and we need your help!!!

With all the recent break-ins and criminal activity, now is the time to get out of our homes and be as visible as possible. We need to take our streets back and send a clear message to criminals in our area.

I currently have flyers at my house if you are interested in helping us get the word out. If you wish to stop by and pick some flyers up please call me at 805-0222 and we can arrange a time.

If you wish to volunteer the night of the event, please email me or call and we will set you up. We will have several opportunities including helping with children’s activities, scooping ice cream, running the dunk tank etc.

Thank you and I hope to see each of you out at the National Night Out!!!

Jennifer

Jennifer Storm Executive Director Victim/Witness Assistance Program Dauphin County Courthouse Front & Market Streets Harrisburg, PA 17101 717-780-7078 Pager/Cell 717-805-0222"

Sunday, July 23, 2006

I hope the crime meeting was well-attended

I was unable to make it after all - had a deadline I had to meet. Any input from any attendees?

More censorship at PennLive

You may remember that yesterday, Steve Ibanez posted a request on PennLive Harrisburg forum for citizen crime bloggers and I responded with a comment adressed directly to him. I told him to hire a crime beat reporter and not ask us to do his job. My response was (predictably) deleted. Here's the email I wrote directly to Mr. Ibanez:

By now, I'm sure you are familiar with me and my local blog, Harrisburg Happening, which I started several months ago in response to the deletions made on the PennLive Harrisburg Forum. I now have dozens of regular readers (including several with advance publications or patriot news isp addresses) A growing number of locals read my blog everyday. Among the most popular topics are the lack of reporting from the Patriot News staff and what do do about crime in Harrisburg.

Yesterday, you posted a request for citizen bloggers on crime. I answered your posting with a call for you to simply put a crime beat reporter to work. Then I commented on past deletions. Now you or someone else monitoring the forum predictably deleted the posting.

I'd really like a comment from you on this issue. Step up to the plate - why are the forums censored?

-- Anniken U. Davenport, Esq.
Davenport Communicationsanniken@davenportcommunications.com216 7th Street, Suite B
New Cumberland, PA 17070717) 770-2250Fax: (717) 770-2252- - - Visit my website on the medical malpractice crisis at www.codebluemalpractice.com Subscribe to my newsletter at codebluemalpractice-subscribe@topica.com Check out my blog at http://codebluemalpractice.blogspot.comMy Harrisburg blog is at http://harrisburghappening.blogspot.com

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Open Letter to Broad Street Market Management

I see the new manager is as clueless as the last one. Now he's telling vendors they may not be open on Tuesdays. That will drive more out, since you really can't run a business selling food just 4 days a week.

And in case the manager is blind to trends, here's a news blast. The Market's patrons are not just state workers at lunch and residents of Cumberland Court and Jackson Lick anymore. With houses selling for up to $300,000 (corner of Forster and Second) these days, and most homes selling in the $150,000 plus range, people are moving in with lots of disposable income. Guess what? They don't get home before 5 pm. They would love to walk to the Market and pick up fresh ingredients to prepare on their Viking ranges and granite countertops.

Instead of closing at 4 p.m. and only being open Wednesday through Saturday, how about expanding hours? As it stands now, if I leave my office later than 3:30 p.m I have to stop at the new Giant Giant in Camp Hill for the evening's ingredients. I'd much rather walk across the street . . .

The problem is no new blood in any of the organizations that haven't done a damn thing for the city over the last twenty years. The Harrisburg Historic Association is a prime example. All talk and no action. And now their executive director also runs the Broad Street Market. Talk about continuing on in the shallow end of the gene pool. Fresh blood and fresh ideas - it's about time.

Patriot News' Brilliant Idea

Here's what the PennLive editor posted on the Harrisburg Forum and my response. Here's a profit making entity trying to get more free content and refusing to do it's job as a member of the free press:


787.2. From PennLive.com by sibanez, 7/21/06 20:37 ET Re: Penn Live Crime Response Meeting Sunday 3PM by jasonsmith, 7/21/06
From reading the forum, it is easy to see that there are several people here who would like to report on their neighborhood. We are getting ready to begin offering community blogs that will be showcased on the site with a focus on reporting the news currently not found on PennLive.com. What we are looking for is very wide open, anything from crime/safety items to Little League box scores will be welcomed; the goal is to really let the community become a partner with the site.
If you are interested in doing this, please drop me a line atsibanez@pennlive.com. If there’s anything you’d like to do to help point the spotlight on your neighborhood/interest, let me know, even if it’s not a blog, we are very open to new ideas.

My response: How censored will these be? My blog exists because you wouldn't allow me to speak here. Why should I do your job for free? Hire some crime beat reporters and do your job!

Major Reed's Excuse

Here's what Reed told the Patriot is holding up the idea of informing the public:

"The mayor said only four people work in his office. To make crime information available to the public would take one employee much of the day, he said. "

So there is so much crime it would take a full time employee all day to report it? Well, then we have a problem buying artifacts and funding museums won't solve. How about hiring Levanda to report crime instead of chasing museums on city island?

Friday, July 21, 2006

Great March on Mayor's House

The Great March on the Mayor's House
I like this idea of the protest over crime reporting/lack of warning. If you are interested and have some ideas, please email them to me at anniken@comcast.net (wouldn't want our city hall readers to have all the info ahead of time.)

P.S. Had to turn on moderator mode, since I was getting spam posts

Open letter on crime to Reed and King (our regular reader)

Yet again, we have been lied to and misled by Reed and King and the Harrisburg Police. It seems a band of roaming robbers have been targeting women walking in Midtown for robbery and pistol-whipping, with no word from the Administration to be on the look-out.

What will it take for some honesty from the administration? Why aren't reporters looking at the crime logs at Harrisburg Police stations? Is it because Reed is clueless or is he just protecting the image of Harrisburg as safe? Are they reporting crime to the FBI appropriately, or is that all a fraud?

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1153450571218240.xml&coll=1

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Historic Harrisburg Association and the GSA

The Business Journal article in its July 21 issue certainly does show the sadder side of the Cumberland Court decision. Also interesting is that it points out that the new manager of the Broad Street Market, David Zwifka, is also executive director of Historic Harrisburg Association. He is quoted as saying an influx of office workers could boost Broad Street Market business. He does seem sympathetic to the plight of Cumberland Court Apartments.

But isn't this the same Zwifka who wrote the following to the GSA? Notice he never mentioned the apparent conflict between his role as Market director (since he now says the Market will benefit from the site selection.) Seems like hypocrisy to me


Dr. David Alan Zwifka
Executive Director
Historic Harrisburg Association
General Services Administration, Mid-Atlantic Region
Attention: Abby Low, Project Manager
20 N. 8th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-3191
Dear Ms. Low:
I write today in response to the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for site selection of the
Proposed U.S. Courthouse in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
On behalf of Historic Harrisburg Association, I wish to express our gratitude for the opportunity
to have input into this important project.
Historic Harrisburg Association (HHA) is aware of the limitations placed upon the GSA from
several sources. The criteria established by legislatures, executive orders, and internal policy
statements can make such a process extremely complicated for those charged with making these decisions. However, HHA is also profoundly aware that the site selection process will have adeep and abiding impact on elements of the Harrisburg community regardless of decision taken.
The EA outlines in detail the site selection process. It further outlines the various factors that ledto the selection of three "short-listed" sites. The EA also outlines in detail, GSA's assessment ofthe many factors that will contribute to a final decision. HHA is aware that this is an assessmentdocument only and not an argument for or against any particular site.
This response will limit its observation to the site at N. 3rd and Forster Streets. HHA's missionfocuses primarily on the preservation of historic assets (fabric and neighborhoods). While HHAboard and members feel strongly about the impact this project will have on other sites listed, itfeels that its prime focus must be historic assets threatened by this project. HHA's observationshere and its effort to confine comment to the single site in no way implies that other proposed sites are to be preferred.
It is the opinion of HHA that the EA overall does not adequately communicate the gravity of
specific factors in the decision process, especially in the EA's Executive Summary. For example,
the report describes the nature of many of the structures at the N. 3rd and Forster site as havinghistoric character. What the report fails to communicate adequately is that these structurescomprise a significant element of the inventory of a post-Civil War neighborhood. If thesestructures are demolished, the negative impact on the historical architectural assets of the citycould be classified only as catastrophic. Moreover, the impact to the historical assets of the area would not be limited to the site only.
What would remain of the architectural inventory in the immediate area would suffer as a sort of"critical mass" is reached where investment in preservation and maintenance of the remaining
structures may suffer from the increase in traffic density, the need for parking, security concerns,and other factors that often have a negative impact on such neighborhoods.
For example, on p. 52 the EA notes "indirect impacts to land use may occur as properties in the
vicinity of the courthouse are converted to commercial space to serve employees and visitors to
the courts or to provide office space for businesses with activities related to the courts.
Properties … could experience a conversion from residential land use to commercial land use or
parking activities. Therefore, this alternative would have moderate, long-term, direct and
indirect adverse impacts on land use planning in the City." The statement, however, fails to
convey the significance of demolishing these historically significant structures.
While existing buildings at the N. 3rd and Forster Streets site might be functionally rebuilt, since
people and functions can be relocated, the structures themselves cannot ever be replaced. Put
bluntly, once they are gone, they are gone forever. This fact needs to be stated boldly, not in
terms that may cause the reader to miss their significance.
On this point alone, the report fails to take cognizance of the strong preservation ethos that existsamong residents of the affected neighborhood and the importance of such neighborhoods to thelarger community. The report notes that the area has undergone a sort resurgence because of other downtown development ("they began renovating the neglected row homes of thedowntown and mid-town neighborhoods."). While the EA recognizes the impact of this projecton the historic district as such, it fails to recognize that much of this work is not merely updatingor repair but genuine preservation and restoration. The area lies not only partly within theHarrisburg National Historic District but also completely within one of Harrisburg's six
municipal historic districts. As a result, the Harrisburg Architectural Review Board must
approve any work done to houses in the area. Moreover, the work already accomplished has
created a cultural environment that cannot be except in like neighborhoods of which there are bydefinition a limited number. As further evidence, many of these homes have been featured on
semi-annual house tours sponsored by HHA that boast of nearly 1000 participants at each event.Many of the houses have been designated as premier examples of historic preservation and restoration through HHA's Preservation Award program, where preservation projects are singledout for excellence using defined criteria.
The report continues concludes that there will be "no cumulative impacts" from this project
concerning the continued trend of downtown "residential and downtown development." On the
contrary, this project represents the kind of development that is antithetical to the redevelopmentrecently experienced in this area. Instead of redeveloping and enhancing existing resources, thisproject would demolish existing assets and lead to the deterioration of what it has taken ageneration to heal.
The report assesses the impact on population and housing for the N. 3rd and Forster Streets site
as follows: "Relocations would have direct, moderate, short-term adverse impacts to individual
tenants . . . There is ample replacement housing available in the City of Harrisburg for the
homeowner/occupants . . . though the replacement neighborhoods lack some of the historic

What would remain of the architectural inventory in the immediate area would suffer as a sort of "critical mass" is reached where investment in preservation and maintenance of the remainingstructures may suffer from the increase in traffic density, the need for parking, security concerns,and other factors that often have a negative impact on such neighborhoods.
For example, on p. 52 the EA notes "indirect impacts to land use may occur as properties in the
vicinity of the courthouse are converted to commercial space to serve employees and visitors to
the courts or to provide office space for businesses with activities related to the courts.
Properties … could experience a conversion from residential land use to commercial land use or
parking activities. Therefore, this alternative would have moderate, long-term, direct and
indirect adverse impacts on land use planning in the City." The statement, however, fails to
convey the significance of demolishing these historically significant structures.
While existing buildings at the N. 3rd and Forster Streets site might be functionally rebuilt, since
people and functions can be relocated, the structures themselves cannot ever be replaced. Put
bluntly, once they are gone, they are gone forever. This fact needs to be stated boldly, not in
terms that may cause the reader to miss their significance.
On this point alone, the report fails to take cognizance of the strong preservation ethos that existsamong residents of the affected neighborhood and the importance of such neighborhoods to thelarger community. The report notes that the area has undergone a sort resurgence because ofother downtown development ("they began renovating the neglected row homes of thedowntown and mid-town neighborhoods."). While the EA recognizes the impact of this projecton the historic district as such, it fails to recognize that much of this work is not merely updatingor repair but genuine preservation and restoration. The area lies not only partly within theHarrisburg National Historic District but also completely within one of Harrisburg's six
municipal historic districts. As a result, the Harrisburg Architectural Review Board must
approve any work done to houses in the area. Moreover, the work already accomplished has
created a cultural environment that cannot be except in like neighborhoods of which there are bydefinition a limited number. As further evidence, many of these homes have been featured on
semi-annual house tours sponsored by HHA that boast of nearly 1000 participants at each event.
Many of the houses have been designated as premier examples of historic preservation and
restoration through HHA's Preservation Award program, where preservation projects are singled
The report continues concludes that there will be "no cumulative impacts" from this project
concerning the continued trend of downtown "residential and downtown development." On the
contrary, this project represents the kind of development that is antithetical to the redevelopmentrecently experienced in this area. Instead of redeveloping and enhancing existing resources, thisproject would demolish existing assets and lead to the deterioration of what it has taken ageneration to heal.
The report assesses the impact on population and housing for the N. 3rd and Forster Streets site
as follows: "Relocations would have direct, moderate, short-term adverse impacts to individual
tenants . . . There is ample replacement housing available in the City of Harrisburg for the
homeowner/occupants . . . though the replacement neighborhoods lack some of the historic
ambience of the subject site." Such a statement demonstrates that the impact assessment misses the mark. The very reason most of the residents of this neighborhood live where they do is precisely because of the "historic ambience." This writer also acts as a real estate professional inthe city of Harrisburg. It is not unusual, when clients look for housing in these neighborhoods, tochoose an older house rather than a "new-build" even though they may be in the same proximate neighborhood. This only underscores the irreplaceable (might one say "priceless"?) nature of a historic architectural asset. Low vacancy rates, waiting lists and other factors point to the importance these assets hold for housing in the city of Harrisburg. Moreover, the N. 3rd andForster Streets site is the only site where there are multiple property owners, several of which are owner-occupants.
With the exception of a single multi-story office building, the mixed-use buildings housing
With the exception of a single multi-story office building, the mixed-use buildings housing
commercial enterprises for the most part are neighborhood-based businesses that thrive because of the context in which they exist. Like other property owners in the area, they respect the historic nature of the neighborhood and are governed by the same standards concerning
renovation or modification of their buildings. Moreover, if these businesses are forced to
relocate, services may be lost to the neighbors that remain causing further deterioration in the
neighborhood fabric.
The impact on neighborhood cohesion seems self-evident. The EA, however, seems to minimize
this impact without a recognition of the human toll involved: "Those who remain would lose
neighbors and local gathering places as affected residents, restaurants and bars/clubs would
move out of the neighborhood . . . These indirect impacts are typically short-term, as remaining
residents adjust to their modified community or decide to leave and others move into the
neighborhood. Therefore, a short-term, moderate adverse impact to the larger CAN community
is anticipated as a result of this alternative." The report seems to conclude "they'll simply get
over it or leave." That conclusion may be correct. HHA for most of its 33 years has seen
neighborhood stabilization and development as part of its mission through the use of a historic
preservation ethos. By its nature, this process understands this kind of development to be slow
and incremental of deeply rooted and dynamic. This project would dismantle many years of
effort by numerous dedicated citizens and expect the situation to right itself with the passing of
time. HHA respectfully disagrees that this outcome is inevitable.
HHA wishes to recognize the EA's conclusion that the project would have a "major, direct, longterm, adverse impact to historic structures" (p.107).
However, this conclusion must be seen in the real-life context of this impact as noted above.
Historic assets are preserved not for themselves but for the community, which they serve. To
see the assets in isolation does not provide an adequate assessment of their importance. Again,
HHA is grateful for the opportunity to respond to this EA. If HHA can offer further input or
guidance, please contact us directly.
With every kind wish, I remain
Sincerely,
Dr. David Alan Zwifka
Executive Director

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Museums

I just read that the African-American Museum plan is still on hold. So in effect, the city is tying up prime redevelopment property by announcing the plans before they are ready to actually build the thing. I for one am getting tired of plans announced and no action. Is this just a way to drive away other potential plans? After all, who would pursue other Furlow Building plans if the City has dibs on the property. Meanwhile, rats and birds inhabit the building, spreading filth and disease, not to mention keeping adjacent property values down.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Final GSA Environmental Assessment

Here's a link to the final report:

http://www.gsa.gov/gsa/cm_attachments/GSA_DOCUMENT/Appendix%20E_R25FK_0Z5RDZ-i34K-pR.pdf

Courthouse selection

Well, the good folks at GSA have saved a gentrified section of town in favor of disrupting the lives of the working poor. Not that I expected anything different from this administration, which caters to the rich and seems to have a real distain for anyone who might be struggling. Yes, let's displace single mothers and children from a relatively safe and clean environment. Mustn't inconvenience the DINKS at all.

Anyone look at the racial disparity between the sites? Looks like a discrimination case to me. Yes, I'll play the race card, because it is the right card. And I don't care if the regional administrator is an African-American Bush-loving ex-Harrisburger.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

What's With the Broad Street Market?

I went to the Market in Saturday, and it seemed so empty. No more cheese stand, lots of empty space, very little variety in the selection. I estimate about 25% of the available space is empty. What is management doing wrong? Are they charging too much? Not providing enough support? Not advertising enough?

After exploring Florence's Mercanto Centrale, I am struck by how great a market can be. Any ideas on what we can do (other than open a stand - no time for that!)

The Big World Cup Win


Tuscan View


Friday, July 14, 2006

I'm Back, Folks

I'm back from two glorious weeks in Florence, ready to blog Harrisburg again. I didn't have a reliable Internet connection at my villa. Sorry about that.

Now I need you guys to fill me in on what I've missed in Harrisburg. Any new plans from the Mayor? Is crime up or down? Have 10 new restaurants opened their door?