Letters to the Editor

Nutter wrong on Germantown project

Residents in Germantown were recently dismayed by Mayor Nutter's support for the proposed Chelten Plaza retail development. In 14 years here, I have never witnessed such universal civic opposition to a development project, nor such grassroots community organizing.

What happened to the Michael Nutter with whom I shook hands when he was representing true neighborhood interests as a councilman? People in this historic neighborhood are committed to living in a mixed-income, multicultural community where all deserve respect. To be tagged as a throwaway ghetto that deserves to do our grocery shopping at the dollar store is deeply offensive.

The Chelten Plaza debacle has stunk of corruption from the start: the developer's healthy donations to State Rep. Dwight Evans, redevelopment money promised without community support, and the fact that the site is located in a special-control district that prohibits additional variety stores. The mayor's support for this project deflates the most ardent pro-Philadelphians, and makes it clear that as voters and citizens we are left to accept whatever politicians and their cronies feel like throwing at us.

Nicole Juday, Philadelphia

Christie's 'time' not coming soon

I'm gratified that Gov. Christie would be honest enough to recently acknowledge that, as far as the United States presidency is concerned, "Now is not my time."

I would add that, based on Christie's incredible record of super-heavyweight bullying, posturing, and grandstanding, his time will hopefully come at the same time that hell hath frozen over.

Jules Slatko, Holland

Ease rules on Pa. wine shipments

I was pleased to read chef Jennifer Carroll's "One Great Idea" Wednesday about changing the way Pennsylvania regulates its wine shipments.

I believe those of us who are 21 and older should be able to take advantage of Pennsylvania's amazing wineries. So, I introduced Senate Bill 886 to allow in-state and out-of-state licensed producers, suppliers, importers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers who obtain a direct wine shipping license to mail 18 liters, or two cases, a month to Pennsylvania homes and businesses.

Philadelphia has some of the greatest BYOBs, restaurants, and bistros around - not to mention wine lovers - and I want to use this bill to expand consumer choice and enhance our dining experience.

Sen. Lawrence M. Farnese, Philadelphia

One way to create jobs