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Doctor, Wife Give Alcohol to Minors: Police

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A doctor who lives on the Main Line, and his wife are accused of supplying alcohol to more than one dozen minors.

Family practitioner Dr. Stephen Ficchi, 61, and his wife Donna Marie Ficchi, 52, were arrested in early June for the alleged incident, which court records state took place in May.

Since their arrests, the Ficchis have been free after posting bail.

Each Ficchi faces 13 counts of reckless endangerment, 13 counts of supplying alcohol to a minor and other counts, including corruption minors, according to court records.

Stephen Ficchi practices medicine in Bensalem, Bucks County, Pa.

Exact details about what led to the Ficchis arrests are expected to be revealed in today's preliminary hearing.

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You Can't Lose (Sort of) at Revel

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Atlantic City’s Revel Casino is desperate to get you in the door. So desperate in fact that they want to make sure gamblers can't lose.

For the whole month of July, A.C.’s newest casino resort will refund all slot losses. The offer covers cumulative losses of $100 or more at slot machines, video poker machines and/or electronic table games over the month and can't exceed $100,000 in loses, according to the casino.

In addition to that, Revel will match slot offers from the other 11 Atlantic City casinos. Customers will need to bring the original mail piece to the Revel Card Desk to receive the offer.

The offers will be doled out using the Revel Card, according to the casino.

“We are excited to re-launch this property with a promotion that says it all -- You Can’t Lose,” said Randall A. Fine, Managing Director of The Fine Point Group, which is overseeing Revel’s marketing strategy. “We intend to give gamblers more of what they want -- more fun, more action, more amenities, and the best casino experience in the history of this market.”

Revel’s newest promotions are part of their “Gambler’s Wanted” campaign. This campaign is the product of the casino’s new management and marketing team that took over following its emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

“Everybody deserves a second chance, and in order for Revel to earn one, we are offering a second chance to every slot customer,” said Jeff Hartmann, Chief Executive Officer. “Whether you played with us last week, have not visited in a year, or have never tried Revel, this exciting promotion is open to everyone and proves that at Revel, gamblers are wanted.”

Revel hopes to rebound from its disappointing opening year by putting an emphasis on its customer’s interests with the gambler-oriented campaign.

“We want gamblers, and with these two promotions, along with our new affordable dining options and Atlantic City’s largest contiguous smoking section, we hope players come to one simple conclusion -- why gamble anywhere else?” Fine said.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Daulton Goes Under the Knife

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One of the most beloved Phillies alumni is expected to go under the knife today.

Darren Daulton, who spent parts of 14 seasons with the Phightins, announced that he was diagnosed with two brain tumors last week.

On Monday morning, doctors are expected to operate on the Phillies Wall of Famer.

Earlier, Daulton thanked his fans for the outpouring of support he’s received since 97.5 The Fanatic, the radio station where he hosts "Talking Baseball with Dutch," broke the news.

“I want to thank everyone for your uplifting support. Special thanks to the Phillies and 97.5 The Fanatic. Right on, fight on! Love ya, Dutch,” Daulton said in statement released by the radio station.

In a statement posted on their website, the station announced that Daulton had not been feeling well for the past two weeks and went to the doctor, who discovered the tumors.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this difficult time," said the statement.

The late Harry Kalas, pictured on the right with Daulton, once referred to him as the "all time clubhouse leader of the Philadelphia Phillies."

That leadership was key in helping the rag-tag 1993 Phillies win the National League pennant.

Those Phillies fell short of winning the World Series, but Daulton eventually did get his championship after being traded to the Florida Marlins during the 1997 season. He ended his career that October with a World Series title.

Daulton, 51, now chairs the Darren Daulton Foundation, which helps in the development of youth sports programs and homelessness organizations.

97.5 offered up Daulton's email address of  dutch@975thefanatic.com to anyone who would like to send their well wishes.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

1st Same-Sex Marriage Issued in Delaware

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Delaware's Sate Senator, Karen Peterson and her partner, Victoria Bandy, were the first same-sex couple to get married in the state of Delaware. NBC10's Tim Furlong reports from Wilmington, Del with the latest.

Photo Credit: NBC10 Philadelphia

Boy Rescued From Water, 2nd Missing

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Rescue crews have pulled one boy from the rain-swollen Pennypack Creek in Northeast Philadelphia.

The are now searching for a second, according to the Philadelphia fire department.

The report came in as a boy in the water in the area of the creek near Winchester Avenue and the Roosevelt Boulevard.

NBC10's Harry Hairston is headed to the scene.

Check back for the latest information on this developing story.

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Photo Credit: AP

Former Hero Cop's $60M Bail "Inappropriate:" Judge

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Bail has been cut by tens of millions of dollars for a former hero Philadelphia police officer who has been indicted on allegations he raped and assaulted women.

Richard DeCoatsworth, 27, has been held since May 18 on $60 million bail for allegedly forcing two women to take drugs and perform oral sex on him at gunpoint. Police also claim he forced one of those women into prostitution and assaulted his girlfriend in separate incidents.

Defense attorney L. George Parry said the unusually high bail was highest ever levied in Pennsylvania history.

At a motions hearing Monday, Common Pleas Judge Charles Ehrlich called the multi-million dollar bail "inappropriate" as he drastically reduced the amount to $3 million. DeCoatsworth must post 10-percent of the total -- or $300,000 -- to be released from prison.

DeCoastworth will be subject to house arrest if he posts bail and will not be allowed to have contact with guns or illegal drugs.

The former officer would also need to have a judge's approval before leaving his home and will be required to wear a GPS monitoring bracelet.

Philadelphia Assistant District Attorney Joseph McGlynn argued against the reduction in bail saying DeCoatsworth was a flight risk. According to McGlynn, he has family members in Florida and his car is also registered in the state.

DeCoatsworth has been locked up at the city's prison complex in Northeast Philadelphia since May, in a cell bock reserved for the city's most dangerous criminals.

Parry previously said his client was being mistreated in prison. Parry said DeCoatsworth had been held in isolation and was not allowed to wear clothing the first week in prison.

The bail reduction hearing has stretched on for weeks. The first hearing was continued twice until Monday's proceedings.

On June 18, DeCoatsworth was indicted on 13 crimes including rape, trafficking of persons, promoting prostitution, witness intimidation and possession of drug paraphernalia. The indictments came down following a grand jury investigation into the former officer's alleged activities.

The 27-year-old had previously been charged with 32 crimes in the three cases.

DeCoatsworth was shot in the face during a September 2007 traffic stop. After being shot, he chased the suspect for some time before collapsing. Police say he was able to radio enough information about the shooter for other officers to nab him.

He was honored for his heroism in 2008 with a Top Cop award and sat next to First Lady Michelle Obama during President Barack Obama’s first address to congress at the U.S. Capitol.

DeCoatsworth left the Philadelphia Police force on disability in December 2011.

Judge Ehrlich also put a gag order in place in the case at the hearing Monday. That will prevent the prosecution and defense from speaking publicly about the proceedings.


Contact Vince Lattanzio at 610.668.5532, vince.lattanzio@nbcuni.com or follow @VinceLattanzio on Twitter.



Photo Credit: NBC10.com

Fourth of July Celebrations Around the Region

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Fourth of July Celebrations by County

NOTE: This list of 4th of July Celebrations will continue to be updated through the holiday weekend.

PHILADELPHIA COUNTY

Philadelphia Fourth of July
Thursday, July 4
Wawa Welcome America
12-7 p.m. Party on the Parkway

Philly’s Fourth of July Jam and Grand Finale Fireworks
Thursday, July 4
Concert on the Ben Franklin Parkway
Celebrate America’s birthday with the “Largest Free Concert” in the country, hosted by Kevin Hart and featuring John Mayer, Neo, Jill Scott, J. Cole, Grace Potter, Ben Taylor, Demi Lovato and The Roots.

Betsy's Independence Day Bash
Thursday, July 4
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Enjoy Independence Day activities for children, including a naturalization ceremony at 1:30 p.m. and ceremonial bell ringing at 2 p.m.

Celebrate the 4th with Patrick Henry
Thursday, July 4
1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Patrick Henry and the Pa. Sons of the Revolution “Let Freedom Ring” to celebrate Independence Day at the Barry Statue behind Independence Hall.

Adventure Aquarium Splash in the Square
Friday, July 5
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Franklin Square

Pennsylvania Counties

BERKS COUNTY

Exeter Township
Thursday, July 4
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Independence Day Program at Daniel Boone Homestead, 400 Daniel Boone Road. Historic activities recreated for families, bring a picnic lunch. 

Reading
Thursday, July 4
FirstEnergy Stadium, 1900 Centre Avenue
6 p.m. Concert of Patriotic Music
8 p.m. Fireworks
Rain date is July 5

Union Township
2 p.m. Reading of the Declaration of Independence at Hopewell Furnace, 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson, Pa.

Wyomissing 
Thursday, July 4
10 a.m. Fourth of July Parade
Begins at Cleveland Avenue and ends on Garfield Avenue

BUCKS COUNTY

Doylestown
Thursday, July 4
Fonthill Castle Museum Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration
12-4 p.m.  Experience an early 20th century inspired July Fourth
Tickets $4 adults, $1 youth. For more info, 215-348-9461

Holland
Wednesday, July 3
Free Community Patriotic Concert
7-9 p.m. Saint Bede Venerable Parish Grounds, 1071 Holland Road

Levittown
Thursday, July 4
9 a.m. 2nd Annual Fourth of July Parade
700 Veterans Highway

Newtown
Saturday, July 6
Newtown's First Fouth
6 p.m. Newtown Middle School
9:30 p.m. Fireworks
Rain date is July 7

CHESTER COUNTY

Celebrate Coatestville 
Sunday, July 7
12-9:30 p.m. at Gateway Park
Food, craft booths, games and activities for entire family, ending with fireworks

Downingtown Good Neighbor Day
Thursday, July 4
Kerr Park in Downingtown
8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. 5K run/walk, big wheel race, carnival rides, crafters, games, music and watermelon seed spitting contest
Fireworks at dusk
More info: 610-285-1119

Phoenixville Fireworks 
Thursday, July 4
Friendship Field at corner of Fillmore Street and Franklin Avenue
9 p.m. Fireworks
Rain date July 5

Nottingham 
Saturday, July 6
22nd Annual Freedom Fest
6-11 p.m. Nottingham County Park
Rain date is July 7

Tredyffrin Township Fourth of July Celebration
Thursday, July 4
Shire Pavilion, Wilson Farm Park, 500 Lee Road, Chesterbrook, Pa. 
7 p.m. Chester County Concert Band and fireworks

DELAWARE COUNTY

Collingdale
Thursday, July 4
Fourth of July Festivities
9 a.m. Parade stgarts at MacDade Blvd. and ends at Collingdale Park with games starting thereafter 
Fireworks begin at dusk
Rain date Saturday, July 6

Lansdowne Independence Day Parade
9-11 a.m. Parade beings at East Greenwood and Wycombe Avenues, including marching bands, decorated bikes and cars. 

Radnor
Thursday, July 4
29th Annual Independence Day Fireworks
6:30 p.m. gates open with music, children's games and refreshments.
Fireworks begin at dusk
Tickets in advance are $3 for children under 13, $6 for teens and adults, $12 for a group car or at the door: $5, $10 and $20 respectively. You can get tickets in advance at Wayne Sporting Goods, D'Amicantonio Shoes, Braxton's Animal Works, Radnor Township Building, Dayton Lock Co and Bryn Mawr Trust
Rain date is Saturday, July 6

LEHIGH COUNTY

Allentown
Thursday, July 4
A Star Spangled Celebration
4-10 p.m. Street Festival on Linden Street, outside the J. Birney Crum Stadium, The event is free
Music performances, food vendors, skydivers, face painting, children's activities and beer garden
9:15 p.m. Fireworks 
Severe weather delay date is July 5

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 

Ambler
Friday, July 5
9:00 p.m. Fireworks at Wissahickon HS
 
Wednesday, July 3
Sutcliffe Park
5 p.m. Activities start
9:30 p.m. Fireworks
 
Thursday, July 4
Includes Abington and Cheltenham
4 p.m. Parade
Fireworks at Dusk at Abington Senior High School
 
Narberth Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks
Thursday, July 4
Narberth Playground, 100 Conway Avenue
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Baby parade, kids activities, games, sports contests and pie eating contest
9 p.m. or dusk Fireworks start
Rain date is Saturday, July 6 for daytime activities and fireworks on the next clear night
 
Thursday, July 4
8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
5k run at 8:30 a.m., Parade at 10:30 a.m., Concert Old School at 12:30 p.m., British invasion tribute at 6 p.m., Fireworks at dusk, Elmwood Park 
For more details, contact 610-270-0467

Pottstown
Thursday, July 4
10:15 a.m. Parade on High Street in Pottstown
No fireworks
  
New Jersey Counties
 
CAPE MAY COUNTY
 
Thursday, July 4
9 a.m. Independence Day Parade
Begins at 15th and Atlantic Avenues and proceeds north to 2nd Avenue. The Patriotic Pooch Parade will join in the march of the Independence Day Parade through the island at 8th and Atlantic Avenues in North Wildwood.
9-11 a.m. The Beach ‘n Boardwalk 5K Run and 1-Mile Family Walk 
Begin at the iconic Wildwoods Sign located at Rio Grande and Ocean Avenues, and travel north to the Wildwoods Convention Center then down the boardwalk extension to the beach. The 1-mile walk will head down the Wildwoods Boardwalk to Cresse Avenue and back to the Wildwoods Convention Center.
6 p.m. The Jimmy Buffett tribute band, “Changes in Latitude” 
This FREE concert takes place at Fox Park on Burke and Ocean Avenues in Wildwood. 
7-9 p.m. The Philadelphia Mummers
The Mummers will strut along the Wildwoods Boardwalk from 16th Street in North Wildwood to the Wildwoods Convention Center. 
7 p.m. Wildwood Talent Showcase
Dancers from ages 6 to 18 will perform at the Wildwood Bandshell, located at Schellenger Avenue and the Boardwalk. 
7:30 p.m. FREE live music with the Manhattan Dolls
This patriotic show takes place in Wildwood Crest at Fern Road and Ocean Avenue. 
10 p.m. Fireworks
A free fireworks show is visible from anywhere in the Wildwoods. 
 

 



Photo Credit: White House Photo Office

For the Phils, It's Time to Sell

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For a lot of teams, the first of July represents the point in the season where you have to have a clear
idea as to how the rest of the year is going to play out. Depending on your record, it could mean a lot of things. It could be the start of an exciting month where the GM acquires players who can be useful in getting to the playoffs. It could be a month of standing pat with what you have. It could also be a month of selling off your prized assets so you can live to fight another day.

For the Phillies, it will be the second straight season in which they are going to be raising the white flag at the All Star break. At 39-44, they are 9.5 games out of first place in the division, and  7.5 off the pace for the Wild Card. Despite the fact that there is a ton of time left in the season, the writing is on the wall, and the Phillies are more than likely going to be playing golf come October.

In other words, it's time to sell.

General Manager Ruben Amaro took baby steps in his first time as a mid-season seller in 2012, when he traded Hunter Pence, Shane Victorino, and Joe Blanton at the trade deadline. Things are a bit dicier this season, as he'll potentially need to deal with trading longtime Phillies Chase Utley, Carlos Ruiz and Kyle Kendrick, along with the likes of Michael Young and Jonathan Papelbon. It's not an easy spot for Amaro, who not only has to make tough personnel decisions, but also has to deal with the potential PR backlash that comes along with a fire sale. If he trades Chase Utley, the fans have to be convinced that it was the right move to trade one of the most beloved players in team history. While a GM shouldn't avoid making a move because he might anger the fans, it's important to remember that happy fans make the team more money, and a team with more money has a bit more flexibility when it comes to signing big-name free agents.

But the question, really, isn't whether or not they should become sellers, but whether Amaro can pull the trigger. He's never been the one to admit defeat, and coming into the 2013 season, it was pretty clear that he felt that this team could contend heading into the season. But after a 3-4 road trip that was notable for late-inning losses and one 16-1 blowout, the Phillies are in dire straights heading into the month of July.

And despite Jimmy Rollins' optimism about the team's chances, it's just not looking very good. Too many injuries have taken their toll on what was already a so-so team, and the bullpen – which was thought to be a strength heading into the season – has done more harm than good. There have been bright spots, like Cliff Lee's dominance, Kyle Kendrick's continued success, and Domonic Brown's breakout season, but that's not going to get the Phillies back to October any time soon.

It's unfortunate, but it's the truth, and one that is often hard to accept, especially when this team was so good for the better part of the last seven years. It's not a feeling that any fans are used to, but the sooner they accept that it's coming to a bitter end, the sooner they can move on and be somewhat content with these strange new circumstances.

The rumor mill has just started to churn over the last couple weeks, but I predict that by the middle of July, it will be moving fast and furious, with a lot of familiar names dominating the conversation. The only question is whether or not Ruben Amaro can pull it off.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Family Asks for Prayers for Sarah Murnaghan

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The family of Sarah Murnaghan is asking for prayers for the young girl as she continues to recover from two separate lung transplants.

Murnaghan, who has a severe case of cystic fibrosis, received a lung transplant at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on June 12 after her family spent months petitioning physicians and lawmakers to allow the 10-year-old to be moved onto the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network's adult organ donor list.

However, Sarah’s mother Janet Murnaghan said Friday that the girl’s health began to “spiral out of control" following the first surgery. She says her daughter's vital signs plummeted, and the lungs began to fail within hours of the transplant.

"There were about 30 people in the room and we just kind of stood outside of the room helpless," Janet Murnaghan said.

The newly transplanted lungs were removed and Sarah was placed on a bypass machine that took over the work for her heart and lungs -- circulating blood outside the body, according to the mother. That same day, the 10-year-old was also once again placed on the adult organ donor list.

Doctors said Sarah developed a complication called Primary Graft Failure, due to the poor quality of the lungs, according to the family. They said the girl most likely wouldn't survive longer than a week on the bypass machine.

"The doctors are telling us that the first and second transplants have nothing to do with each other. That the first donor transplant was a donor issue," Janet Murnaghan said. "Her body did not reject them."

Janet said the family knew Sarah was being given "marginal" lungs, but were left with no choice because her condition was so dire.

Three days later, a new set of donor lungs became available and her doctors performed a second transplant.

But the new surgery had its own risks. The new donor lungs, which were also from an adult, were infected with pneumonia.

Luckily, the mother said, doctors were able to cut away the portion of the lungs that were infected before implanting.

Following the second transplant, doctors kept the girl's chest open to alleviate pressure from severe swelling.

“Under a bandage, you can see her heart beating, her lungs rising because she was so swollen from the two procedures,” Janet said.

After spending two weeks in a medically-induced coma, Sarah was woken up, unaware of the ordeal that played out.

“So here we are, we wake her up two and a half weeks later and I say, 'So guess what, you didn't have one transplant, you had two...and then your chest was wide open'" Janet said. “She really did not believe me until she saw the pictures.”

The girl, who is set to celebrate her 11th birthday on August 7, is now communicating with her hands and being weaned off of a ventilator.

Sarah is still having trouble breathing because of a paralyzed diaphragm -- a common complication from the transplant surgery. Doctors are expected to fix that issue during a follow up surgery on Tuesday.

Asked why the family waited to share that a second transplant had taken place, Janet said they were simply afraid their little girl was going to die.

"It was never something that we wanted to keep a secret for any period of time, but it was something that, in that moment, we felt like we weren't prepared to live out her dying in public."

On Monday, Janet wrote on her Facebook page that the young girl has been suffering from anxiety and asked supporters to pray for her.

"She has struggled with fears that she will suffocate and stop breathing," Janet wrote. "Please pray for comfort and peace of mind that she knows she is safe." 

Sarah has spent more than three months at CHOP, prior to her transplants, as she awaited a new lungs. Since she was under 12-years-old, Sarah was subjected to a different set of donor rules.

Those under 12 who are in need of a lung transplant, must wait until those over 12-years-of-age pass on the lungs no matter how severe a child's condition may be.

The Murnaghans challenged the policy in court and on June 5, a judge put a temporary restraining order in place -- allowing Sarah to be placed on the adult donor list.

The latest transplant is not a cure for her cystic fibrosis, according to doctors. Although, the transplant will extend her life by several years.


Contact Vince Lattanzio at 610.668.5532, vince.lattanzio@nbcuni.com or follow @VinceLattanzio on Twitter.



Photo Credit: Family Photo

Shore Town Hopes New Project Will Revitalize Economy

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A swing of a sledge hammer marked a critical moment in the rebuilding process of a Jersey Shore town.

“It’s time,” said Lois Spiegel of Ventnor. “It’s absolutely about time.”

Ventnor Mayor Mike Bagnell along with developers from Pelican Properties struck the bricks of the once flourishing Monaco Motel during a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday. Vacant for years, the motel is now an eyesore and is set for demolition in a few weeks.

“It’s all image,” Bagnell said. “Once people realize that there is activity and once this building comes down to the ground, that’s going to be a plus. People are going to realize that they are taking a chance and they are starting to build there.”

In the motel’s place will be a project that the town hopes will revitalize its economy in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Named “the Waves,” the project will include 27 luxury townhomes on Ventnor’s oceanfront. Officials say “the Waves” will provide what will likely be the last opportunity for shore homebuyers to purchase newly constructed beachfront homes. It’s the first project of its kind in a quarter century.

Ventnor resident Marsha Pecker believes the $25 million development will be a shot in the arm in the shore’s recovery by inspiring homeowners or new buyers to invest in new construction.

“It will boost the economy here,” Pecker said. “Our little neighborhood here is really rejuvenated. We have an art gallery and we have lovely restaurants.”

“The Waves” townhomes include five bedrooms and an elevator in each unit. In Sandy’s aftermath, economic developers believe that the ambitious project is proof that the shore is truly stronger than the storm.

“This is true economic development after the storm,” said David Perlman of Pelican Properties. “Sandy has set us back slightly but in the long run has helped us build a better product to weather a stronger storm.”

In Ventnor, only five new homes have been built in the last several months. Bagnell says there was a 30% increase over last year but it’s still slow due to residents who waited for the rezoning of FEMA flood maps. Both the mayor and developers hope “The Waves” will create a swell in residential development and provide inspiration to other shore communities.

“I’m hoping people take a page out of their playbook and say, ‘Hey, they took a chance on the Monaco, let’s take a chance elsewhere in the city,” he said. “Sandy did knock us down. But she didn’t knock us out.”

 



Photo Credit: NBC10.com

Where is the Money for Philly Schools?

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The search for funding for Philadelphia's public schools continues, as students, parents and teachers await answers from City and State officials. While the City has announced that it secured $74 million, and yesterday, Governor Corbett announced $140 million secured on behalf of the State, the funds combined still do not meet the $304 million the District needs and many of the announced dollars are conditional. Navigating these conditions, and keeping up with union negotiations and pass-or-fail legislation can be difficult. While the School District's budget is sure to remain a topic of discussion throughout the summer, those discussions are likely to be riddled with misinformation.

TheNotebook.org investigates and reports extensively on the Philadelphia School District. We reached out to contributing editor Dale Mezzacappa, and asked her to break down the City and the State's plans and where they stand today for saving Philly's schools.

Q: What sources of new money does the governor’s plan include?

A: For this year, it includes $45 million in a one-time federal infusion, and $50 million from additional borrowing against money that will start coming to the District next year from extending the 1 percent city sales tax surcharge beyond 2014 and diverting proceeds to the schools. It also projects that $30 million additional will come from more aggressive city property tax collection (the city projects only $28 million). And it includes nearly $16 million increase in state basic education funding for the city. But that is only $2 million more in the basic education subsidy than the District had already included in its austerity budget. The governor says it all adds up to $140 million, but the plan would produce roughly $125 million in revenues not already factored into the budget.

Q: How much of this is city vs. state money?

A: The basic education increase is state money, and the $45 million is money the state would have otherwise had to pay back to the federal government – it is forgiveness of a past overpayment. The rest of the money will come from people who live, own property, or shop in the city.

Q: How much of the money is one-shot vs. recurring?

A: The $45 million grant will definitely have to be replaced next year. Increases in basic education funding are recurring. The sales tax surcharge should ultimately generate $120 million in recurring revenue, but the proceeds from 2014-15 are being split between this year and next. It is still unclear whether the $30 million from more efficient city property tax collection will be recurring, or a one-time recouping of delinquent taxes. Certainly the hope is that the city will be able to collect more of the money it is owed from taxpayers each year than it currently does.

Q: What additional action is needed to guarantee the funds?

A: The plan makes the $45 million and the $50 million contingent on the new Secretary of Education, William Harner, “certifying” that the District has adopted certain operational, educational and fiscal reforms. Increasing property tax revenues on a recurring basis may depend in part on whether the city gets three new bills from the state expanding its powers. Those bills are not on the immediate docket, but Council members are confident they will be approved.

Q: Some are saying Corbett’s plan provides $274 out of $304 million needed. Has this plan closed nine-tenths of the gap?

A: To draw that conclusion assumes that the deal guarantees that the District will get the entire $133 million it is seeking in concessions from the unions. The provision requiring certification by the Secretary of Education strengthens the District’s hand in getting the concessions. But union president Jerry Jordan argues that the union is now being asked to contribute more than the combined efforts of the city and state.

Using the $274 million figure also counts the entire $16 million increase in the basic education subsidy as an increase over what the District had already budgeted, when only $2 million is above what it had already factored in.

Q: Does this plan mean that the District can avoid nearly 4,000 layoffs?

A: That is not yet known. The District will most likely offer a more detailed response to the package later in the week after it is finalized and budget officials have had the chance to analyze its implications. Negotiations with the union are likely to continue at least up to the August 31 deadline. State action at best gives the District about half the dollars needed to avert the layoffs in its gap-closing plan.

Q: What will the sales tax extension mean long-term?

A: It means that people who live and shop in Philadelphia will pay a higher sales tax and that “up to $120 million” from that 1 percent bump will be used to fund the schools. The $120 million matches the amount that the District had asked for from the state, but the money will come from local sources, and that full amount won’t be achieved until 2016.



Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Reward Offered in Death of Missing Mom

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A reward is now being offered for information on the death of a Gloucester Township woman.

Carol Reiff, 59, was reported missing on June 21 from her home at the Lakeview Apartments located at 590 Lower Landing Road in Blackwood, N.J.

Family members say they last heard from Reiff the night of June 20 after she told them she had plans to travel to Manahawkin, N.J. to visit other family members.

But investigators say she never arrived and family members never heard from her after.

Police say Reiff’s car was found in front of her apartment home.

On June 24, around 11:50 a.m., police say they found Reiff's body near the Lakeview Apartment complex.

While police were able to identify the body, investigators say an autopsy performed the night of June 24 was unable to determine a cause of death. While Reiff's death has not been ruled a homicide, officials say they are still treating the circumstances surrounding her death as a criminal investigation.

Reiff's family is offering a $4,150 reward for anyone with information leading to an arrest in the case. The money will be administered by the Camden County Prosecutor's Office.

Reiff's family, who helped raise the money with friends, is asking for additional contributions to the reward fund. Anyone who would like to contribute money should send a check to the Camden County Prosecutor's Office at 25 N. 5th Street, Camden, New Jersey, 08102. Donors should write, "Carol Reiff Reward Fund" as a note on the checks.

Police are also offering an additional $1,000 reward. If you have any information on her death, please call the Camden County Prosecutor's Office at 856-225-8653 or Gloucester Township Police at 856-228-4500.



Photo Credit: Gloucester Township Police

Former Philly Congressman Bill Gray Dies in London

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Former member of the U.S. House of Representatives and Philadelphia minister William Herbert Gray III is dead, according to a family spokesperson.

The spokesperson said Gray was attending the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London on Monday when he suddenly died. He was 71 years old. The spokesman said he had not been ill and that it appears he died from natural causes.

Born in Baton Rouge, La., Gray graduated from Simon Gratz High School in Philadelphia back in 1959. In 1972, he became the senior minister at Bright Hope Baptist Church, also in Philly.

Church leaders from Bright Hope Baptist learned of Gray's death during an emergency meeting.

"We're talking about someone who not only became majority whip but was the Barack Obama of his day." said Reverand Kevin Johnson of Bright Hope Baptist.

"It's heartwrenching," said Brenda Willingham, who attends the church. "It hurts so bad. He's going to be truly missed by his congregation."

In 1978, Gray was elected as a Democrat to represent Philadelphia in the House of Representatives. He represented Pennsylvania’s 2nd congressional district until he resigned in 1991.

Gray was also the first African-American to chair the House Budget Committee and the first to serve as the Majority Whip.

"He was a big man doing a big job," former Philadelphia Mayor Wilson Goode said. "He knew how to get stuff done."

Goode, who was Philly's first African American Mayor, says Gray paved the way for him and other African Americans in politics.

"He was a pathfinder," Goode said. "He proved that an African American can run without party support."

While chairman of the Committee on Budget, Gray introduced H.R. 1460, an influential anti-apartheid bill.

From 1991 to 2004, Gray served as president of the United Negro College Fund.

Gray leaves behind a wife and three sons. The family spokesperson says funeral services will soon be announced.

Mayor Michael Nutter ordered that all city flags at city buildings and facilities will be at half-staff on Tuesday, in honor of Gray.

“I am truly stunned, saddened and hurt by the loss of this great man who was so influential in my own growth as a public servant as well as dozens of other Philadelphians, particularly in the African American community," Nutter said. "Bill Gray was also a unifying force bringing together a multi-racial coalition to work in the best interests of all Philadelphians. Bill’s passing is a dramatic and significant loss for Philadelphia, the Commonwealth and the nation he served with honor and distinction."

Philadelphia Council President Darrell Clarke called Gray "one of the most significant figures in Philadelphia politics" in a released statement.

“From advocating for Philadelphia’s fair share of federal dollars to fighting against the injustice of apartheid in South Africa, Congressman Gray’s mark cannot be erased," Clarke said. "He helped make the renovation of 30th Street Station possible, and the sight of that magnificent structure should give us all reason to be thankful for his service."
 



Photo Credit: NBC10.com

Man Shot, Run Over

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A man died late last night after being shot and run over.

Philadelphia Police say the yet-to-be-identified man was shot multiple times along the 4500 block of Morris Street -- near where Route 1 crosses through Fernhill Park -- in the city’s Germantown neighborhood around 10 p.m.

The victim managed to stumble down the street despite being shot twice in the back and once in the wrist, according to investigators. He eventually collapsed in the street.

A passing driver didn’t see the man passed out and wound up running over the man.

Police rushed the shooting victim to Temple University Hospital where he died from his wounds.

The driver who struck the shooting victim stopped and wasn’t charged, police said.

The search continued Tuesday morning for the shooter. Anyone with information is asked to contact Philadelphia Police.



Photo Credit: NBC10

Deadly Trash Truck Crash

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A trash truck overturned early this morning leaving one man dead along the side of a rural area roadway.

The crash closed roads in the area of Bypass and Dublin Roads in Hilltown, Bucks County, Pa. after the G&C Waste Services truck crashed around 5 a.m. The truck came to a rest on its side along a wooded area next to the roadway.

One man died in the wreck. It wasn’t clear if he was the driver.

SkyForce10 hovered overhead as crews worked the scene. The truck remained on its side as of 6 a.m.

Roads in the area remained closed. Some alternate routes included nearby Rickers Road and Welcome House Road, according to NBC10 traffic reporter Jillian Mele.

  • Click here for the latest traffic from NBC10.com.

The cause of the crash wasn’t clear and the investigation continued through the morning.



Photo Credit: SkyForce10

Nursing Home, Convent Lose Water After Main Break

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The Nazareth Hospital property in Northeast Philadelphia is dealing with another water main break. The hospital has water service again but a nursing home and convent on the property reamined without water Tuesday morning. NBC10's KAty Zachry reports.

Photo Credit: NBC10

Former Gosnell Clinic Doc, Assistant to Be Sentenced

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Two employees of former abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell are set to be sentenced for their role in his West Philadelphia clinic dubbed a “House of Horrors.”

Steven Massof and Lynda Williams will appear before Common Pleas Judge Benjamin Lerner Tuesday morning. Both former employees had previously taken third-degree murder plea deals in exchange for their testimony during Dr. Gosnell’s capital murder trial.

Massof, 51, was an unlicensed doctor who worked at Dr. Gosnell’s clinic, the Women’s Medical Society, at 38th Street and Lancaster Avenue in the Mantua section of the city.

Massof admitted to snipping the necks of at least 100 babies born alive during abortion procedures. The medical school graduate told a grand jury he would induce the mothers, deliver the babies, cut the umbilical cord and then sever the spinal cord.

Williams was a medical assistant at the Women’s Medical Society. She also acted as the clinic’s anesthesiologist even though she only had an 8th grade education and no formal training.

The 45-year-old administered four doses of pain killers and anesthesia during a 2009 abortion procedure that killed 41-year-old patient Karnamaya Mongar. She also admitted to snipping the neck of one of the babies Gosnell was charged with murdering.

Both Massof and Williams could face decades in prison, but will most likely receive reduced sentences in exchange for their cooperation with the prosecution.



Photo Credit: NBC10.com

Another Surgery for Lung Transplant 10-Year-Old

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The local 10-year-old who made national headlines after he family fought to get her an adult lung transplant is set for another surgery today.

Sarah Murnaghan needs surgery to repair her diaphragm.

Murnaghan, who has a severe case of cystic fibrosis, received a lung transplant at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on June 12 after her family spent months petitioning physicians and lawmakers to allow the 10-year-old to be moved onto the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network's adult organ donor list.

Murnaghan is scheduled to have the latest procedure at CHOP at 10 a.m. Tuesday. That's according to a post on the Facebook page of her mother, Janet Murnaghan. But as of 1 p.m., the surgery had still not started.

The family revealed Friday the girl had to receive a second set of lungs after the first failed within hours of the original June 12 transplant. The newly transplanted lungs were removed and Sarah was placed on a bypass machine that took over the work for her heart and lungs -- circulating blood outside the body, according to the mother. That same day, the 10-year-old was also once again placed on the adult organ donor list.

Doctors said Sarah developed a complication called Primary Graft Failure, due to the poor quality of the lungs, according to the family. They said the girl most likely wouldn't survive longer than a week on the bypass machine.

"The doctors are telling us that the first and second transplants have nothing to do with each other. That the first donor transplant was a donor issue," Janet Murnaghan said. "Her body did not reject them."

Janet said the family knew Sarah was being given "marginal" lungs, but were left with no choice because her condition was so dire.

Three days later, a new set of donor lungs became available and her doctors performed a second transplant.

But the new surgery had its own risks. The new donor lungs, which were also from an adult, were infected with pneumonia.

Luckily, the mother said, doctors were able to cut away the portion of the lungs that were infected before implanting.

Following the second transplant, doctors kept the girl's chest open to alleviate pressure from severe swelling.

“Under a bandage, you can see her heart beating, her lungs rising because she was so swollen from the two procedures,” Janet said.

After spending two weeks in a medically-induced coma, Sarah was woken up, unaware of the ordeal that played out.

“So here we are, we wake her up two and a half weeks later and I say, 'So guess what, you didn't have one transplant, you had two...and then your chest was wide open'" Janet said. “She really did not believe me until she saw the pictures.”

The girl, who is set to celebrate her 11th birthday on Aug. 7, is now communicating with her hands and being weaned off of a ventilator.

Sarah is still having trouble breathing because of a paralyzed diaphragm -- a common complication from the transplant surgery.

Asked why the family waited to share that a second transplant had taken place, Janet said they were simply afraid their little girl was going to die.

"It was never something that we wanted to keep a secret for any period of time, but it was something that, in that moment, we felt like we weren't prepared to live out her dying in public."

On Monday, Janet wrote on her Facebook page that the young girl has been suffering from anxiety and asked supporters to pray for her.

"She has struggled with fears that she will suffocate and stop breathing," Janet wrote. "Please pray for comfort and peace of mind that she knows she is safe." 

Sarah has spent more than three months at CHOP, prior to her transplants, as she awaited a new lungs. Since she was under 12 years old, Sarah was subjected to a different set of donor rules.

Those under 12 who are in need of a lung transplant, must wait until those over 12 years old pass on the lungs no matter how severe a child's condition may be.

The Murnaghans challenged the policy in court and on June 5, a judge put a temporary restraining order in place -- allowing Sarah to be placed on the adult donor list.

The latest transplant is not a cure for her cystic fibrosis, according to doctors. Although, the transplant will extend her life by several years.



Photo Credit: Family Photo

Jim Rash & Nat Faxon Team Up Again for New Movie

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NBC10's Keith Jones sits down with Academy Award-winners Jim Rash and Nat Faxon. The two first worked together on the movie, "The Descendants" which starred George Clooney and now the screenwriting duo are teaming up again for the movie "The Way, Way Back." It's a funny coming of age sotry about a 14-year-old boy who goes on vacation with his mom and her overbearing boyfriend, who is played by Steve Carrell.

Photo Credit: NBC10 Philadelphia - Dan Stamm

Pope John Paul II 1 Step Closer to Sainthood

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The canonization ceremony for the late Pope John Paul II is one step closer to being finalized. A second miracle by the the late Pope is awaiting approval by the Catholic Church. A pope needs to reach a quota of two miracles in order to be deemed as a saint. NBC10's Matt DeLucia reports.

Photo Credit: Getty Images
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