So, the previously announced community meeting with Councilman Squilla originally planned for this month has gotten moved back until December 17 at 2 pm at Mother Bethel (6th / Lombard)
The date was changed as we await the planning report the 76ers have commissioned; we know it will be biased in favor of the stadium, but that’s one of the issues to put on the table with Councilman Squilla when we meet with him. As well, we know that now no legislation can be passed before the City Council reconvenes (expected at the end of January). Also, our meeting with our Councilman might lend itself to some actions at the swearings in of the new Mayor and City Council in early January.
Michael’s idea is that after worship on Dec. 17, we could have a “Gaspar Luncheon” – catered Chinese food as a fundraiser for the Save Chinatown Coalition. Gaspar is the Magi that is traditionally represented as Asian. We might think we are getting to have lunch with him on his (and our) way to meet the Christ child in Bethlehem. If you want to work with Michael on organizing this fundraiser, please speak with him.
We also need two OF leaders to join a committee from the Center City congregations that will be responsible for planning the meeting on the 17th with Squilla. The idea of the gathering is to confront the Councilman in front of a bunch of his constituents as well as people from across the city who want to know why he has reneged on his public promise that there would be no stadium if the Chinatown community did not approve of it. Please let Michael know if you can work on this meeting.
