Harrisburg Happening

Crime in the Burg

2007-09-24T19:32:00.000-07:00

The 2006 FBI statistics are out and I've done the hard work for you, dear readers. It's almost official - as far as violent crimes per capita, Baltimore and Harrisburg are in a statistical dead heat. For rape, Harrisburg wins hands down. Yes, folks, you are five times as likely to be raped in Harrisburg as in Baltimore and three times as likely as if you walked the streets of DC.

Rates per 100,000 for various crime categories:

Harrisburg: Violent crime = 1690 Murder = 21 Forcible rape = 107
Savannah: Violent crime = 555 Murder =14 Forcible rape =30
DC: Violent crime = 1445 Murder =29 Forcible rape =31
Baltimore: Violent crime = 1696 Murder =43 Forcible rape =21
Philadelphia: Violent crime = 1562 Murder =28 Forcible rape =66

Source: FBI annual crime statistics http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/cius2006/index.html

Court House 4.0

2007-06-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

Two possible sites just announced:

"I wanted to provide you with an update on our progress of site selection for a new courthouse in Harrisburg. GSA has reduced its long list of ten sites to a short list of two sites. These sites include: the southwest corner of 3rd and Pine Streets which is bounded by Pine Street, 3rd Street, Cranberry Street and Court Street; and the southeast corner of 2nd and Locust Streets which is bounded by Locust Street, Court Street, Walnut Street and 2nd Street. During the selection process, these two sites rated well overall in the following areas: · Identity of Site within the Community · Consistency with Adjacent Activities, Land Use and Community Character · Compatibility of Districts and Scale · Cost Factors GSA believes that these site alternatives would best fulfill its statutory mission and responsibilities, giving consideration to economic, environmental, technical and other factors. A final decision on the site selection is expected by early 2008. GSA will continue to have an open process throughout the project and continue to solicit public input. An e-mail address and a phone line have been setup to receive comments and suggestions regarding the new courthouse. The public may send e-mails to HarrisburgCourthouse@gsa.gov or call 215.446.4933.

We're Number One!!!

2007-05-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Mayor Reed and the millions spent on the Harrisburg School District - we're number one in the ranks. Way to go! Give the Superintendent a bonus.

Oh, wait. I read the list backwards . . .

We're actually dead last - Number 500 our of 500 school districts in the state.

http://albuquerque.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/stories/2007/05/21/daily24.html

A Master Plan, Public Comments Solicited

2007-05-24T07:26:00.001-07:00

What a fabulous idea. The City comes up with a master plan for development, holds a meeting, invites everyone to view the plans and make comments right then and there. People are heard, ideas exchanged . . . sound like a pipe dream?

It doesn't have to be.

http://savannahnow.com/node/291690

The State of the City

2007-05-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Guess what? The incinerator isn't making money! Real Estate taxes up 17% - school taxes due to go up quite a bit too. Great job, Mayor Reed.

http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/05/harrisburg_incinerator_contrac.html

Commercial space on City Island

2007-05-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

If you don't mind flooding, there's commercial space for rent on City Island. Actually, just a press release and web site. But it looks as if plans for the Sports Hall of Fame have been resurrected - courtesy Mayor Reed.

http://nationalsportshalloffame.net/

$16 Million slush fund?

2007-05-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't catch the news, Reed just sold the Senators at a profit. But what's most interesting is a sentence from the news story:

"The next step, Reed said, is getting state support for renovation. The city has set aside $16 million and is eligible for $18.2 million in state funds, he said."

Okay, where is that $16 million sitting? Set aside? Where? Why hasn't it been used to balance the budget, pay for police or even for snow removal? More importantly, are there more pockets of money just lying around?

Please, someone audit this city!!!

http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/05/mayor_to_talk_about_senators_s.html

Voter Alert

2007-05-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

Dauphin County buried the school/tax referendum on the republican side of the ballot. You will miss it if you focus strictly on the democratic side of the ballot.

Calls to the Dauphin County election bureau were met with nonsense replies - they say Department of State is responsible for the layout. Department of State denies - they say all they do is send the question to the county and then the county decided where it goes on the ballot.

City Council Endorsements

2007-05-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it looks like every blogger in the 'burg is busy endorsing city council candidates - no matter what the focus of their blog.

I'll stop short of endorsement, since I can't imagine what a blogger's endorsement is worth. But I can tell you that only two candidates showed up at my door -Susan Brown-Wilson and Kia Hansard. The rest haven't bothered - although the "Reed Team" sent a postcard claiming they missed me on their rounds, but sought my vote anyway.

Brown-Wilson in particular actually engaged in a lively discussion on the issues as she stood on my stoop. I was impressed.

New Midtown Master Plan

2007-04-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

Mayor Reed makes another development announcement:

http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnews/2007/04/major_development_project_anno.html

Is it just me, or does anyone else think it would be nice to see one project actually happen before another is announced??

PHEAA's New Code of Ethics

2007-04-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

courtesy of "anonymous"

http://www.pheaa.org/about/CodeOfEthics.pdf

PHEAA in the hotseat

2007-04-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Despite the post from a PHEAA 'insider' on this blog, it does appear that PHEAA is involved in this whole scandal - at least as far as being a 'sponsor' of a conference put together by the now seemingly tainted Widener financial aid officer:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/13/education/13loans.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Welcome Sallie Mae

2007-04-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

Gee, PHEAA has company. Sallie Mae is busy reading about PHEAA right here. Too funny.

PHEAA/AES Call to Ethics

2007-04-12T04:22:00.000-07:00

As my readers can see from a recent post by a self=proclaimed PHEAA employee, the quasi-private, quasi-public entity doesn't like being challenged. However, until PHEAA and its business arms publicly state they are abiding by the new ethics policy proposed by Cuomo for student lenders, their explanations don't have much credibility. So here's the challenge to the poster: Do you and the agency you work for follow these simple, no-nonsense rules?

1. Ban on Financial Ties. Lenders are prohibited from giving anything of value to any college in exchange for any advantage sought by the lender. This severs any inappropriate financial arrangements between lenders and schools and specifically prohibits "revenue sharing" arrangements.
2. Ban on Payments for Preferred Lender Status. Lenders may not pay or give colleges any financial benefits whatsoever to get on a college’s preferred lender list.
3. Gift and Trip Prohibition. Lenders are prohibited from giving college employees anything of more than nominal value. This includes a prohibition on trips for financial aid officers and other college officials paid for by lenders.
4. Advisory Board Rules. Lenders are prohibited from paying college employees anything of value for serving on the advisory boards of the lenders.
5. Call-Center and Staffing Prohibition. Lenders must ensure that employees of lenders never identify themselves to students as employees of the colleges. No employee of a lender may ever work in or providing staffing assistance a college financial aid office.
6. Disclosure of Range of Rates and Defaults. Lenders must disclose to any requesting school the range of rates they charge to students at the school, the number of borrowers at each rate at the school, and the lender’s historic default rate at the school. This will ensure that schools will have the information they need to select preferred lenders who are best for students and parents.
7. Loan Resale Disclosure. Lenders shall fully and prominently disclose to students and their parents any agreements they have to sell loans to any other lender.

Source: Press Release at http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2007/apr/apr11a_07.html

Sallie Mae caves

2007-04-11T12:06:00.001-07:00

Can PHEAA be far behind? Let the games begin . . .

http://www.cnn.com/2007/EDUCATION/04/11/student.loan.probe.ap/index.html

Welcome AES Success

2007-04-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

How interesting that AES Success IP addresses are showing up. More interesting still the search they did to find the blog on Cuomo and PHEAA - they googled PHEAA and came up with several blog posts, mine included, questioning where Pennsylania's Attorney General is in all this and asking for investigation.

So, are folks at AES worried, or just wasting our student loan interest dollars on web searched for press on their company?

Is PHEAA/AES Next?

2007-04-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the news on student lenders, consider this. New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is conducting a nation-wide investigation into student loan fraud and abuse - by lenders and college financial aid officers. Sallie Mae has been subpoenaed, some lenders have agreed to reimburse students and more investigations are coming.

The major complaint - that student loan companies paid financial aid officers with exotic trips, stock options, consulting contracts and other goodies to get on the preferred lender lists - controlled, of course, by the college financial aid officers.

So, is PHEAA/AES next? Didn't they just try to defend their lavish spending by saying they have to be competitive?

This is what Cuomo said in a news conference today:

"Cuomo said various officials have been examining the issue for about a year but his investigation was spurred after a lender came to him to complain about the domination of a few lenders in the lucrative market. Cuomo would not name the lender.
''The new lenders were saying because they weren't doing the conferences, they didn't have these relationships with financial aid offices, they weren't willing to do or hadn't been doing the financial aid incentive,'' Cuomo said. ''They couldn't even compete.''"

And where is our own Pennsylvania Attorney General in all this? Why no investigation? After all, two of the colleges allready named in the New York investigation are Pennsylvania institutions - the University of Pennsylvania and Widener.

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/business/AP-Student-Loan-Probe.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Reed Put Harrisburg on the Map

2007-04-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

just not as far West as he thought.

In case you didn't catch it, the New York Times has a front page stories on the Reed Follies today. That's right, front page Sunday edition.

It's not a good thing.

The article is a stinging criticism of the Mayor for Life, his artifact buying sprees and the way the were financed.
I can't link to the article, as it is one of the "premium" offerings. But go to today's edition and you will be treated to a slide show featuring Reed and others.

How to do development

2007-03-09T10:40:00.000-08:00

I think I'm beating a dead horse, but after 20+ years of watching oh-so-slow development in Harrisburg, I can't help it. Here's what the web site for a new development in Savannah looks like. The virtual tour is incredible. Sure beats a static page with no updates . . . or architectural drawings for museums that never materialize.

So, what is actually happening with the Boutique hotel on 2nd, the PAL building, the African-American Museum on Verbeke and Third, etc. The only action I see is HACC.

http://www.savannahriverlanding.com/virtual_tour.html

I've had it

2007-03-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

If you are wondering why I haven't posted for a while . . .. it's because I have had it - with Reed, with lawsuits, with development plans that never pan out, with unplowed streets, with layoffs and petty fights, with pie-in-the-sky budgets that don't allow any room for error.

Goodbye Harrisburg - I'm heading south

PAL Project

2007-02-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

By now, you have all probably heard about the PAL building project. I'd like to open up a discussion of what those of us who will clearly benefit can do to help. Any ideas?

I know that the project principals are fairly approachable as one emailed me about a month before the announcement, providing me with some early details. However, I also heard through the grapevine (AKA pennlive harrisburg forum) that the partners had been 'warned' to keep me out of the loop (gee, thanks, chip and jan - that's really helpful for development) Therefore, loyal readers - how about getting in touch with the developers and offering your support for their project as I may not have any influence even though I would be happy to volunteer some services such as copyediting - their website could use that.

Crime grants soon coming

2007-01-30T07:38:00.000-08:00

Here's news about a grant to fight crime coming up - since Harrisburg City reads this blog, maybe they can act on it.

"Feds plan $200M grant program aimed at curbing violent crimePosted 1/29/2007 10:43 PM ET
By Kevin Johnson, USA TODAY
The Bush administration is proposing a $200 million grant program to help law enforcement agencies respond to surging violent-crime rates in cities across the nation, Justice Department officials said Monday.
The program would help local and state police agencies pay for officers' overtime, equipment and other expenses stemming from new regional task forces aimed at curbing violent crime, Domingo Herraiz, director of the Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Assistance, told USA TODAY.
The program has not been announced publicly; Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is scheduled to begin briefing law enforcement officials on it this week.
The task forces would be staffed with federal, state and local officers to deal with a range of growing crime problems, including recent increases in gang-related violence, gun-related crimes and illegal sales of methamphetamine.
The grant plan marks the administration's broadest recognition yet of the threat posed by rising violent-crime rates.
The FBI reports that violent crimes — homicides, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults — increased 2.3% nationwide in 2005 compared with 2004, the first such rise since 1991. The trend has continued through the first half of 2006, the FBI reports.
If approved by Congress as part of President Bush's spending plan for the budget year that begins in October, the program also would symbolize a renewed interest in federal funding for local police initiatives, which often have taken a backseat to homeland security programs since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The grant program — known as the Violent Crime Reduction Partnership Initiative — would not, however, be designed to help police agencies hire new officers.
Instead, it would allow local and state agencies to apply for grants of $30,000-$200,000 to better deploy and equip officers who make up the anti-crime task forces, said Herraiz and Assistant Attorney General Rachel Brand, the Justice Department's director legal policy.
Herraiz said dozens of cities could be eligible for the grants. He said agencies applying for grants would have to outline specific strategies to attack violent crime, and show improvements in crime rates to be eligible for further funding.
Police chiefs' groups such as the Police Executive Research Forum have called repeatedly for the White House to reprise the Clinton administration's $8 billion police hiring program that added tens of thousands of officers to the nation's streets.
Chuck Wexler, executive director of the group, said the grant program falls well short of that, but "is a step in the right direction."
"It is encouraging that the Justice Department recognizes the significant change in violent crime across the country," he said."

Court House 3.0

2007-01-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

The new long list is out, and boy did they relax the requirements. My favorite site is N. 6th and Reily.

"January 30, 2007

Dear Community Leader:

I would like to update you on the plans to acquire a site for the construction of a new federal courthouse in Harrisburg. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has moved forward in this process and has evaluated a number of sites for the relocation of the U.S. Courthouse. GSA revised and relaxed certain site criteria including size, budget and floodplain requirements in order to broaden the search for sites within the city limits.

GSA is currently reviewing a long list of sites for the new U.S. Courthouse location. These sites include:
S. Front and Sycamore Streets
Eastern corner of 2nd and Paxton Streets
Western corner of 2nd and Paxton Streets
N. 6th and Reily Streets
Maclay and Cameron Streets
Scottish Rite Cathedral – N. 3rd and Wiconisco Streets
3rd and Pine Streets
2nd and Locust Streets
7th and Boas Streets
Dauphin County Administration Building – 2nd and Market Streets

We have set up an e-mail address and a phone line to receive your inquiries regarding the new courthouse. Please send your e-mails to HarrisburgCourthouse@gsa.gov or you may call 215.446.4933. Written comments may also be sent to my attention at:

General Services Administration, Mid-Atlantic Region
Attention: Abby Low, Project Manager
20 N. 8th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-3191

You are also invited to attend the Public Meeting, which will be held on Wednesday, February 21 from 6:30 pm – 8:00 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel located at 23 South Second Street. The meeting will be held in Ballrooms A & B. This meeting will be an informal open house where you will learn more about the project and site selection process.

We look forward to working with you to bring a new, state of the art U.S. Courthouse to the City of Harrisburg. This facility will make a positive, long lasting impact on the region, and we are honored to be involved with this project. I will continue to share appropriate information as we proceed with this project.

Sincerely,

Abby Low
Project Manager
GSA Public Buildings Service
Mid-Atlantic Region"

Reed's Disconnect

2007-01-24T07:33:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't noticed, Reed has been announcing all sorts of development plans, while at the same time telling us all that if we have a major snowstorm, the City will be bankrupt.

Now, how stupid is that? Announce plans for construction without any signed tenants yet, and then tell those prospective business tenants that they won't be able to open if it snows? And that the city can't provide basic services like police, fire and thrash removal during the winter?

another project?

2007-01-24T07:30:00.000-08:00

There's another major announcement on development this week - for Third and Reilly across from the new HACC campus.

"Harrisburg Mayor Stephen R. Reed and representatives of Powers & Associates LLC are to announce plans today for a major new office and retail complex at 1426 N. Third St. in the city. Joining the mayor at today's announcement at the site will be developers Tom Powers, president and CEO; Doug Neidich, chairman, and John Tierney, chief operating officer. The first floor will provide street-level retail space while the upper floors will offer office space for commercial and retail tenants.The historically styled four-story project estimated to cost $11 million is to be built on the site of the former Baker Garage at North Third and Reily streets.The site is across from the former Evangelical Press building, which is being renovated by Powers & Associates to become part of the new Midtown Campus of Harrisburg Area Community College.Demolition work is expected to begin within two months, with construction of the new building to follow. Completion is expected by summer 2008."

Again, I'll believe it when I see it . . .

The British Are Coming, The British Are Coming!

2007-01-24T07:23:00.000-08:00

Well, I've heard through the grapevine that a pair of British transplants have plans in place for the PAL building on Third. There's already a skeletal website and it looks exciting. As always, I reserve judgment until the work crews arrive and the renovation begins . . .

http://www.harrisburgarts.com/

Note - I've actually spoken with one of the project principals and he seems legitimate.

More development

2007-01-19T07:49:00.000-08:00

Here's what WCI Partners have planned - hopefully, it will actually happen, unlike so many announced and abandoned projects this city has seen:
"Harrisburg Mayor Stephen R. Reed and midstate developer and entrepreneur Alex Hartzler, principal and CEO of WCI Partners LP, are announcing plans today for a residential construction and rehabilition project to add 85 towntown houses in the city's midtown section.The new housing, near the Governor's Residence, will be located between North Second and North Third streets and Maclay and Muench streets, with most of the work to be done on Penn, Green and Susquehanna streets. Plans are to be announced at a news conference early this afternoon at 1908 Green St., the project's model home.The over $12.5 million project involves building 19 new townhouses to be offered in the $189,000-$200,000 range and restoring 66 existing homes, most of which are vacant, at prices from $90,00 to $180,000. "

Well, well - it's bloggers' fault

2007-01-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

Randy King is 'retiring' to a promotion as a lobbyist. Great, here we are, paying a pension for a 50 year old, who'll be collecting consulting fees from the city, no doubt!

To Quote Randy

"I've been the target of countless attacks, innuendo and defamation for years," he said. "In recent times, thanks to Pennlive bloggers, Patriot-News columnists and editorial letter writers, I'm now being threatened with physical harm, vilified as a political hack and reading frequent calls for my termination. That's the reward you get for years of selfless service."

Physical harm? Come on, no blog or letter I've read has been incendiary.

Egomaniacs run amok?

2007-01-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

Randy King is retiring and considering a run for office. Here's part of his press release:

"I believe Steve Reed is a true genius of our time and one of the greatest leaders of our generation. Having the opportunity to work at his side has been an honor and a privilege, and I have learned much about governance, leadership and even life itself. I have often likened my role to that of an apprentice or aide to such notable historical figures as DaVinci, Churchill, or JFK, as each were blessed with the same vision, strength of will and leadership skills and abilities as our good mayor. History will look kindly upon the Reed era, and I am proud to have played a part, however small, in helping advance Mayor Reed’s vision for this city."

Churchill and JFK???

More boutique hotels

2007-01-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

I guess city council will allow this increase in height, too . . . and of course, tax abatements:

http://www.pennlive.com/newslogs/patriotnews/index.ssf?/mtlogs/penn_patriotnews/archives/2007_01.html#222837

Harrisburg Hello Apology

2007-01-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I got an apology - maybe they'll be more sensitive from now on:

Dear Ms. Davenport, Esq.

Thank you for contacting me regarding your concerns about the newsletter. I appreciate your feedback and concerns.
I can assure you that neither Mr. Bleacher nor the Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District have any negativism towards Muslims or persons of Middle-Eastern decent. I apologize if you or anyone else was offending
by anything in the newsletters. I assure you, neither of the stories
and comments you sited were intended to offend or denigrate anyone, any religion, or any culture.

Our newsletter goes out weekly to over 4000 people. We receive many very positive comments about the style, information, and content of the
newsletter. And from time to time we receive negative feedback as well, however, I believe we have received less then a half dozen negative comments last year about the newsletter.

None-the-less, I apologize if you were offended by this week's newsletter and the reference to SaddamHussein's execution. If you wish, I would be happy to have your email removed from the
distribution list. Everyone receiving the newsletter is able to have
their email removed from the distribution list by simply clicking the
link included at the bottom of each newsletter.

I have instructed Mr. Bleacher to include the following message in nextweek's newsletter:

In last week's newsletter we made a reference to the execution of Saddam
Hussein. We apologize to anyone who may have been offended by that
comment. The newsletter is meant to be informative, entertaining, and
engaging for the reader using a creative writing style. We often make tongue-in-cheek comments related to current events, news items and popculture. Our intent is never to harm or offend anyone.

Again, I apologize and appreciate you sharing your feelings with us about the newsletter. I promise in the future we will strive to avoid newsletter content which may unintentionally offend some of our readers.

Sincerely, Jeff Murison
Executive Director
Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District

Good Bye Good Wine

2007-01-04T05:52:00.000-08:00

The chairman of the PLCB has resigned, and a CEO at twice the salary has replaced him. Unfortunately, that's really bad news for those of us who had been flocking in for the Chairman's Choice wines. Nationally recognized for the bargain prices on superb wines, the program was the brainchild of Jonathan Newman, who resigned in protest over Rendell's sweetheart appointment of crony Joe Conti, a Republican and former state senator. What was the deal?

Now we'll be back to Boones Farm

Harrisburg Hello is Clueless

2007-01-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have received an email newsletter on Harrisburg events sponsored by Harrisburg Hello. Their director of marketing seems to have a bug up his you know what about Muslims. Here's the letter I just sent to the executive director:

Jeff S. Murison
Executive Director
Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District
22 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101

Dear Mr. Murison:

As a Harrisburg City resident, attorney and person of Middle-Eastern descent, I am writing to complain about the content of the Harrisburg Hello E-mail Newsletter. Your editor, Ron Bleacher, has now in two issues managed to offend Muslims and any person with any degree of religious or moral sensitivity.

I am referring to two articles penned by Mr. Bleacher.

The first advertised a puppet workshop to be held at the Jewish Community Center. In it, Mr. Bleacher stated parenthetically, “Please tell me there is no Kermit the Allah puppet in the Middle East.”

To equate Kermit and God would constitute blasphemy for Muslims, and the ‘joke’ falls flat. May I remind you of the furor caused by the Mohammed cartoons last year in Denmark? Riots followed the publications of cartoons depicting the Prophet. It simply isn’t done, and to make a joke of it is irresponsible, to say the least. It certainly isn’t good marketing. Besides, would you call Jesus a frog?

The second article is equally offensive. I quote from the most recent newsletter,

“The champagne has been uncorked, the strawberry, the pickle, the goatand Saddam have dropped and we have officially begun a new year."

To make a joke of an execution that is likely to spark more sectarian violence in a country where our own soldiers and countless civilians are losing their lives daily is beyond offensive. It shows a total disregard for human decency.

I think it significant that both comments are aimed at Muslims. What does Mr. Bleacher have against persons of Middle-Eastern descent or Muslims in general?

I will be filing a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission unless Mr. Bleacher issues a prompt retraction and apology in the email newsletter."

Reed - Our Very Own Borat

2006-12-05T08:57:00.000-08:00

So, Mayor Reed has managed to get enough people to vote for him at worldmayor.com to make it in the top list of mayors worldwide. And the Patriot News actually does a front page story on it.

Reminds me of a recent movie . . .

It's nice to know my tax dollars are in the hands of folks who are clearly delusional when it comes to the real world.

More PennLive Censorship

2006-11-25T16:32:00.000-08:00

Someone who also posted here about having his postings on PennLive deleted has now had my response to his question deleted.

I told him to call Steve Ibanez to complain. That bit of advice was promptly deleted.

Never mind that I personally spoke with Ibanez a few months ago and he promised he would check into deletions and that my postings linking to this blog would not be deleted. Everyone needs to call Ibanez and complain - again.

Gotta hand it to Reed

2006-11-16T10:54:00.000-08:00

the University is getting PR:

http://insidehighered.com/news/2006/11/15/harrisburg

Reed still wants his way

2006-11-15T11:53:00.000-08:00

According to the latest, the $7 million loan Commerce gave the City will mean no cops are laid off. Instead, some city managers will go. And Reed wants city coucil to approve $10.5 million in another loan, to repay the $7 million plus cover the rest of the shortfall for the year. He wants to take 10 years to pay that off.

Does anyone else think this is odd? Remember, Commerce approved a revenue and tax anticipation loan. Presumably, someone at the City certified they had that much coming by the due date on December 31. Now it will be repaid with more loans? Did the City certify it had the money coming falsely? Loan proceeds are not revenue or taxes by any definition.

And if City Coucil does not approve the long term loan? Will Reed say it's their fault the City defaulted?

I'm sure glad I don't have money in Commerce Bank. . .

Here's what Reed is quoted as saying in the Patriot:

"Reed said he would propose a 2007 budget that would avoid additional layoffs as long as city council is willing to approve a long term $10.5 million loan. The 10-year bank loan would repay the short-term, $7 million loan received today and would cover a part of the remaining $6.8 million deficit for 2006. "

Golden parachutes sighted - golden showers coming

2006-11-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

It seems there may be an early retirement offer coming. I wonder what highly paid officials will 'accept' the offers and continue to be paid at our expense until death do us part?

http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=71E0277E-FBC3-4F90-87AE-228CF6E8EC88

Something's not right in the 'burg

2006-11-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

It seems Commerce Bank had approved a $7 million tax and revenue anticipation loan, to be paid back by year end. And layoffs are still on. The Mayor plans on paying off the lone with the sale of artifacts . . . and take out a larger loan to pay off the first one.

Why wouldn't the city have an existing credit line for tax anticipation and revenue anticipation cash flow problems? And why is the Parking Authority using earnings from parking to fund the new pie-in-the-sky Harrisburg University? What promises did the city have to make to get the Commerce loan? How, for example, could they certify that this is a tax and revenue anticipation loan if they are admitting they don't have the money and won't have the money to pay staff? It all makes no sense.

http://www.wgal.com/news/10317843/detail.html

Patriot updated the story

2006-11-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

http://www.pennlive.com/newslogs/patriotnews/index.ssf?/mtlogs/penn_patriotnews/archives/2006_11.html#203298

Did Patriot Pull It's Randy King Story?

2006-11-09T11:56:00.000-08:00

The King quotes are no longer on PennLive - but I still had the article on my trusty Microsoft Clipboard. Here's what the original story said:

"Shots fired after Method Man concertBy Tom Bowman/The Patriot-NewsAt 1:30 a.m. today, police answered a call to River Alley and Pine Street for reports of gunshots. Officers found 12 empty shells from three different handguns at the intersection, said police spokesman Randy King. No one was injured in the shootings. At least one of the shots went through a window of a home in the 100 block of South Street. Police made no arrests, King said.King said the shootings followed a Method Man concert inside the Dragonfly Club, 234 Chestnut St. “Method Man is one of the more notorious gangster rap artists with a large thug following,” King said. “The city has repeatedly warned Dragonfly owner Judd Goodman about booking this type of act and the problems it inevitably draws to the downtown. His refusal to voluntarily curb this type of programming may result in the city pursuing nuisance bar closure action against him.” "

All Not Well on Restaurant Row?

2006-11-09T10:26:00.000-08:00

Did someone forget to make a campaign donation?

It seems Randy King doesn't like the acts playing at Dragonfly on restaurant row. According to the Patriot, Method Man, a musical ensemble characterized by music critic Randy King as "one of the most notorious gangster rap artists with a thug following," is attracting the wrong kind of crown to restaurant row. King added this not-so-veiled censorship threat -

"The city has repeatedly warned Dragonfly owner Judd Goodman about booking this type of act and the problems it inevitably draws to the downtown. His refusal to voluntarily curb this type of programming may result in the city pursuing nuisance bar closure action against him."

I guess Goodman isn't on the "in" list anymore.

You go, Randy. Never mind that the police (or what's left of the police force) didn't make any arrests after shots were fired in the vicinity. The answer to the budding crime problem is to shut down bars on Second Street.

Wait . . . I thought restaurant row was a shininsuccessss. . .

Hackers break into Harrisburg water system computer

2006-11-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

and the Patriot didn't cover it - unless I missed it.

http://security.itworld.com/4340/061101waterhack/pfindex.html

Can't the city afford virus protection? According to this report, the hackers could have changed the treatment of the water, making it unsafe.

http://www.itcinstitute.com/display.aspx?ID=2564

Who is Roy Christ?

2006-11-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

Apparently, according to the Patriot, one Roy Christ printed the original posters that the police distributed while armed and in uniform (talk about intimidation!) Who is this Christ, and how is he connected with the Harrisburg Police Department or Mayor Reed?

Rally sign update

2006-11-02T06:06:00.000-08:00

So, it turns out to be true. According to the Patriot, police officers were told to hand out the rally signs assailing City Council. Quoting the Patriot, " . . . some say they were ordered to hand out fliers for a rally set for 6 p.m. today in front of City Hall." It continued: "Uniformed patrol officers said they were called in during their shifts by shift commanders and handed a stack of the fliers announcing tonight's rally for city police, employees and residents. "

Mr. Reed - have you no shame? Or was it just your top cop who took this on himself? Or theatrics orchestrated by the FOP attorney? The same guy TatooJim says had unpleasant words after the council meeting?

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1162442410123040.xml&coll=1

Rally signs everywhere

2006-11-01T16:06:00.000-08:00

Today, I came home to find signs posted for a rally in "support of police" and against city council's actions. I've heard the signs were distributed by the Harrisburg City Police. If that is true (and I didn't see it myself) then I am outraged - especially if it was done during working hours.

Not everyone in the city supports Reed, some of us applaud City Council for finally having some balls. I resent my private property being posted with propaganda. I've posted a few Impeach Reed signs myself.

Rhetoric Heats Up

2006-11-01T08:30:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I'm outraged at the statements made by Sean Welby of the Fraternal Order of Police as reported in the Patriot. He's quoted as saying "They are putting out a sign to all the criminals in the area -- Harrisburg is open for business."

Gee, thanks. That's helpful. I'll buy some more bullets so I can play cop on my block.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1162353335102880.xml&coll=1

The Fiscal Crisis

2006-10-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

Does anyone know when city managers first realized when the incinerator (a) wasn't properly designed to handle ingress and egress and (2) when the revenue predictions for the incinerator clearly weren't going to come true?

It seems to me that city managers should have gone to city council much sooner to discuss an amended budget and borrowing power. That way, these layoffs and cuts could have been either better planned or avoided altogether.

And Aries has a point - Internet access at city hall probably doesn't amount to a hill of beans in terms of total cost. What matters is who knew what when. I'd hate to think they knew about the shortfall before the primary.

Reed's Got to Go

2006-10-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

I've crunched some numbers, and I'm totally appalled that Reed would cut police officers in the current budget crisis. This is fearmongering at its worst.

Not only does Reed have absolutely no understanding of statistics (as evidenced by his insistance to the Patriot News that the crime stats for Harrisburg are really half what's being reported because we have only 48,000 people and the crime rates are per 100,000) but he is willing to cut police in his battle with the City Council when we are facing a crime wave.

Here are the figures, based on crimes per 100,000 as reported by the Harrisburg Police Department to the FBI. I took the violent crime statistics for 2005 and calculated the rate per person, then multiplied by 100,000 to get the rate below.

Based on this, Washington DC is much safer!

Harrisburg = 1687 per 100,000

DC = 1401 per 100,000

Baltimore = 1787 per 100,000

Savannah = 650 per 100,000

Shouldn't they be looking for funding

2006-10-26T13:31:00.000-07:00

instead of reading this blog - again . . . .

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http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=harrisburg
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14:02:39
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26th October 2006
16:04:56
harrisburghappening.blogspot.com/http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=harrisburg

With money in short supply, City

2006-10-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

takes weeks to deposit revenue checks.

Over a month ago, I sent a check to pay my newly increased water bill. It took city hall a month to deposit the money. Meanwhile, I paid my local occupation tax bill - over a month ago. That one still hasn't cleared.

You would think in a budget crunch, the first order of business is depositing checks.

I guess not, if you wanted to create a crisis. Is that what this is all about?

layoffs announced

2006-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, the layoffs have begun. And according to the press release issued, other cost-saving measures will include:

1. Cutting the tax abatement for new homes from 10 years to 5
2. Increasing the sewer rate by 15%
3. Increasing the real estate tax by an amount to be determined

Notice that all this is beyond the Mayor's control, or so he says. It's all the fault of health insurance increases, delivering services to tax exempt entitites, the steel industry, e-911 moneys "that could not be obtained," and a rate swap opportunity on Parking Authority bonds that was missed because it took too long to be approved. I assume that last item was City Council's fault? Oh, I forgot - also there were decreased parking revenues. I guess that all the suburbanites here on the weekends don't pay to park. May I suggest running the meters 24/7?

http://www.blogs.pennlive.com/default.asp?item=248621

http://www.wgal.com/news/9877282/detail.html

More Threats

2006-10-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

The City seems intent on playing the mushroom-cloud card. Now Randy King tells us the budget crisis means:

"unpaid vendors continue to pressure the city, with suppliers of bullets for police officers and an Internet provider for patrol car computers threatening to cease shipments and services.
"Vendors are cutting us off," King said. "We're talking about no Internet service for officers in the field; no bullets for officers."

I guess the officers will have to get bullets at Wal-Mart and will have to check for warrants the old-fashioned way.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1161743109112960.xml&coll=1

Facing layoffs, city employees read my blog

2006-10-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

Come on, folks. If you are facing such a budget deficit and possible layoffs, shouldn't you be working rather than cruising the Internet and reading my blog? Because that's what at least one city employee is doing this morning. Note the recurring vists this morning. At least bookmark the blog instead of spending tax dollars doing a google search! See below:

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23rd October 2006
10:29:58
harrisburghappening.blogspot.com/http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=harrisburg

Link to the blog PennLive censored

2006-10-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

http://jerseymike.blogspot.com/

Anybody else tired of City Hall's Threats?

2006-10-18T07:27:00.000-07:00

Today, the Patriot reports on the Harrisburg budget shortfall. In one article, city budget director Lingle says:

"it's only a matter of time before vendors cut off supplies necessary to run city operations, such as the trash incinerator or the water purification plant. "

So, not only are we being threatened with lack of fire and police protection, but also with bad water. Come on, folks. Start working together. Reed must show City Council the financial information and reveal why last year's projected budget figures are off, and City Council must look at those figures, along with next year's projected budget and find a way to raise the money. That means Reed needs to unveil the budget now, not wait until November 21.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1161138308143640.xml&coll=1

Derry Township, Hotbed of Crime?

2006-10-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

I just came across an article on PennLive that shocked me - if the reporting is accurate. Derry Township, that bastion on upper-middle class suburbia, has an astonishing crime rate. The article states:

"Derry Township has a population of 21,754. Of that number, 2,604 people were victims of crime in 2005, said Jennifer Storm, executive director of the Victim Witness Assistance Program."

Jennifer, say it ain't so. If my calculations are correct, Jennifer's figures mean 12 % of residents were crime victims in Derry Township. 12 people our of every 100 men, women and children? Or is this fuzzy math? If true, there ought to be a mass exodus for a safer place - like Harrisburg, where about 3,882 persons were crime victims. With a population of 48,659, that means the crime rate per 100 persons in Harrisburg is a mere 6%.

http://www.pennlive.com/newslogs/patriotnews/

http://www.cityrating.com/citycrime.asp?city=Harrisburg&state=PA

Courthouse 2.1

2006-10-16T05:02:00.000-07:00

After 2 years and $1 million spent on finding a site for the new courthouse, GSA is starting over. Let's hope they learned something from this experience - ask the people directly affected first, not last.

I urge everyone who wrote, emailed and called the GSA to come up with a few alternate sites and let the GSA know where those sites might be.

I have another possible suggestion - how about the block currently occupied by the now defunct Ronald S. Brown Charter School through the block that houses the former PAL building? It appears the city isn't serious about renovating PAL - it's been empty since 1984 and is falling apart - and that Ron Brown's owners will be looking for a buyer anyway.

City in Crisis

2006-10-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't heard, the City is in crisis. Not only has there been an uptick in violent crime (including apparent revenge killing), but now the brilliant minds at City Hall have the temporary solution. Since City Council wants more information on the deficit before they will approve a round of borrowing, they'll lay off police and fire fighters. I call that fearmongering.

But I bet City Council will buckle right under. After all, I'm sure they read about the elected school board members who were removed from office and ordered to pay legal fees for challenging Reed's Board of Control when it came to refinancing the school district's debt.

Courthouse Phase 2

2006-10-12T14:53:00.000-07:00

It's good to see the GSA reconsidered placement of the courthouse, and I'm sure glad they aren't taking any tax generating property. The city surely can't afford that.

Now, let's keep pushing for the right location - somewhere in Harrisburg where it really would add value. I vote for one of the almost empty tracts of land along 4th, 5th or 6th streets. Now, that would push some development in the still seedy Third Street Corridor

Courthouse decision delayed

2006-09-22T15:08:00.000-07:00

September 22, 2006

Dear Community Member,

In an ongoing effort to communicate major developments regarding the new U.S. Courthouse in Harrisburg project, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has some information to share with you. We expected to announce the selection of a final site by the end of the summer, but must now inform you that the decision has been delayed.

As you know, the Regional Administrator has received the Site Selection Board's recommendation that the 6th & Verbeke site is the preferred alternative. The Regional Administrator is in the process of reviewing the comments received during the 6th & Verbeke site community meeting and the recent calls and letters received from those on the site. In addition, the Regional Administrator is in the process of reviewing a number of project studies, evaluations, reports and other related documents. These documents contain information on all three sites and must be fully examined before a final decision is made. A careful and informed decision will be made once all of the information has been thoroughly reviewed.

We will continue to provide you with updates on the project. Thank you for your interest and support. Please feel free to share this information with others who may be interested in this project.

Sincerely,

Abigail Low
Project Manager
GSA Public Buildings ServiceMid-Atlantic Region

More taxes, higher water bills, oh my oh my

2006-09-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

Well, they are at it again - threatening to hold us hostage with taxes or decreased services. Hey Reed - how about a special tax on all the revelers. They'd never notice another 50 cents added to the cover charge.

What galls me most is probably the sewer/water increases. All of us who bought efficient low water toilets and washers and dishwashers, we will be paying more because we dared use less. Some incentive.

Good to Be Back

2006-09-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

and see that nothing has changed. Last week, Mayor Reed led the announcement of a new hotel project at Second and State. It was to be privately financed and built quickly. But alas, a detail was left out - current zoning doesn't allow a hotel at that location. Now the developer says unless he gets the zoning law changed by late October, the project is dead.

Yessiree, folks, it is another example of a press release and plans with nothing behind it.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1158200708217990.xml&coll=1

More censorship

2006-09-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

I have now officially given up on PennLive Forums. Despite promises from Steve Ibanez, the Pennlive Editor, posts have lately been aggressively censored. As of today, I will no longer visit, read or post on the forums.

"Least vocal" residents lose courthouse fight

2006-08-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

As I have said here before, it was the "least vocal" who lost out in the GSA selection process for the courthouse. Now, there's a surprise. It seems good ol' boy Barbara Shelton, who now admits she is the "ultimate decision maker" for the selection, has met with residents of Cumberland Court Apartments and is surprised at their anger.

http://www.pennlive.com/news/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/news/1155876058271540.xml&coll=1

Rival "groups" versus the "G" world

2006-08-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

Last week, the Patriot referred to rival "groups" as a possible source of the tension that ended a 14 year old child's life. I guess "gang" can't be used. Well, if we can't even name the problem, we cannot solve it.

Other papers and other cities are more forthcoming, despite possible impact on "tourism." Take a look at this approach:

http://new.savannahnow.com/node/122991

Latest from the City

2006-08-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

Rival gangs, shootings and general mayhem - isn't it time Reed and the police department did something? Or are they too busy on 2nd Street?

http://www.pennlive.com/weblogs/print.ssf?/mtlogs/penn_patriotnews/archives/print172129.html

Development in Harrisburg

2006-08-14T04:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the Patriot ran a series of articles on the New Harrisburg - and quoted someone as calling it "The new New Orleans." Now, that seems a bit off, but at least there is some coverage of improvements. I was encouraged to see that there are several new townhouse projects slated for Midtown. I was not encouraged to see Walmart may be scouting a site.

Censorship, Phase 3

2006-08-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, the posts complaining about censorship - including the post asking why some topics are deleted that seem "on point," are gone.

Censorship, Redux

2006-08-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today, there are some posts complaining about more censorship. Who actually controls what is censored? I thought we were making headway - but are we? Is it some sick game by our Milton?

Here's a sample:

852. Why are my posts being deleted? by jerseymikepa, 8/12/06 18:08 ET
Who's got an axe to grind?

852.1.2. Topic 848 Deleted by Swampfox22, 8/12/06 20:22 ET Re: Why are my posts being deleted? by jerseymikepa, 8/12/06
The series of posts under topic 848 have been deleted. Are there some caveats, restrictions or undesired topics that we need to know about? Are discussions about terrorists forbidden on these forums?

852.1.2.1. Basically by cd3, 8/12/06 20:47 ET Re: Why are my posts being deleted? by jerseymikepa, 8/12/06
If anyone complains about somethign it is removed.

852.1.2.1.1. Arbitrary Standards by Swampfox22, 8/12/06 21:19 ET Re: Why are my posts being deleted? by jerseymikepa, 8/12/06
How can that be true when there are a number of complaints about taxes, crime, politicos, smoking ban, etc, etc,etc. Seems that there may be some arbitrary censorship being imposed. It's funny that the newspaper web-site would censor when they find it convenient to talk about freedom of the press when they want to beat a particular drum but look at it differently when "John Q. Public" wants to evpand the envelope of discussion. Is this site under the paper or is it an independent site subject to the whims of whoever is "big daddy"?

Censorship Update

2006-08-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

It appears that PennLive is relenting - that the censors are not censoring out links to this blog or onecityonevoice.com anymore. After months of protest, we have been heard.

When I spoke with Ibanez, he was somewhat defensive and asked for examples of posts that had been deleted. He seemed to think only off topic comments had been deleted. I pointed out that onecityonevoice was most certainly on topic, and that deleting questions about censorship was just plain odd.

Today, Ibanez actually posted a link to this blog as well as to onecityonevoice.com

A conversation with PennLive Editor

2006-08-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

Miracle of miracle, the PennLive editor actually called me today. Seems Milton is located at some central office in New Jersey, where he and others like him monitor the postings at PennLive to make sure they stay on topic. Mr. Ibanez admits that at times they may go beyond their mandate. He is meeting with them re censorship issues soon.

Another local blog

2006-08-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here's another local blog to visit:

http://jerseymike.blogspot.com/

PennLive censoring crime fighting efforts

2006-08-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone who has been reading this blog knows there is an effort underway to create an effective and accessible source for information on crime in Harrisburg as well as a forum to discuss solitions. The website, which is the brainchild of TattooJim and Jason Smith, but which appears to involve many members of the public, was recently launched and can be found at http://www.onecityonevoice.com/

Yesterday, the address was listed in the Harrisburg Forum. It was removed. Then someone asked why it was removed. That was also removed. Apparently, the Harrisburg Forum is not a place where it is safe to discuss actual solutions to Harrisburg's problems.

Cities push for inclusiveness, tolerance

2006-08-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

There's a new initiative from cities putting out the welcome mat to a diverse influx of people. Here's the USA Today article. Note that York and Carlisle are on the list. Perhaps Harrisburg should follow their lead?

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-08-04-inclusive-cover_x.htm

Time to Balance the News

2006-08-04T06:16:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid all out emphasis on crime is creating the wrong impression. Yes, we need to do what TattoJim and Jason are doing, gather the information, press for more police protection, etc. But we have to balance that with the good news about Harrisburg, or we will create the impression this is a terrible place to live. Here's what one person thinking of moving to Harrisburg posted on PennLive:

831. Might move to Harrisburg, need advice by TonyNJ48, 8/4/06 7:00 ET
Where are the decent low crime areas ofHarrisburg?
I have read so much recently about the crime rate in Harrisburg that I am concerned about making this move.
Thanks for your help and advice.

Criminals now reporting on crime

2006-08-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a good one. It seems that in the earlier, scary report by the Patriot on crime in Midtown, the crack reporters at the Patriot (that would be you, Ms. Carrie Cassidy) are interviewing the criminals on crime. According to police, and the PennLive site, a man just arrested for burglary and other crimes gave the Patriot News a fake name when he commented on the Midtown crime spree. It seems the guy's latest victim was able to ID the alleged burglar from a photo he saw in the Patriot News about crime in Midtown.

From PennLive:

"The burglary victim also was able to identify Robinson from his picture in Monday’s newspaper, where police said he gave a fake name to a reporter who interviewed him about the city’s recent crime problem."

http://www.pennlive.com/newslogs/patriotnews/index.ssf?/mtlogs/penn_patriotnews/archives/2006_08.html#168387

Crime blotter

2006-07-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

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

We are not alone

2006-07-28T06:13:00.000-07:00

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

"Struggling" City Schools buy building

2006-07-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-27T20:04:00.000-07:00

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)

Milton the Censor is . . . .

2006-07-26T18:58:00.000-07:00

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.

Harrisburg arrests

2006-07-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

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.

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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

2006-07-25T12:30:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

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

Patriot News Editorial

2006-07-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-24T06:45:00.000-07:00

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"

I hope the crime meeting was well-attended

2006-07-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

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

More censorship at PennLive

2006-07-23T05:23:00.000-07:00

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

Open Letter to Broad Street Market Management

2006-07-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

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?

Great March on Mayor's House

2006-07-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

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)

2006-07-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

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

Historic Harrisburg Association and the GSA

2006-07-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

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 Â 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 Â 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

Museums

2006-07-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

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.

Final GSA Environmental Assessment

2006-07-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

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

2006-07-18T05:25:00.000-07:00

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.

What's With the Broad Street Market?

2006-07-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

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!)