They won't drink to that

OPINION

Add Comment | Comments: 0 | Posted Nov. 18, 2004

Bistro owners promise taste

To the Editor:

Thanks for your coverage of the proposed restaurant at 10th and Tasker. I thought Ms. Gennaro did a fine job reporting on what has, unfortunately, turned out to be a heated and, in my opinion, misunderstood situation.

When my business partner and I decided to go forward with a Mediterranean-style restaurant last spring, we were thrilled to discover that the space occupied by the former 10 Spot would be available.

As South Philadelphia homeowners are well aware, property values have gone through the roof. Young professionals are flocking south, bringing with them new, exciting businesses. No more so than along the East Passyunk Avenue corridor, which seems poised to explode with growth -- and we'd very much like to participate. We only ask for the chance to prove ourselves.

We are happy to make concessions to earn support. We have, for example, decided to reduce the size of the antique bar as a sign of good faith. That alone will delay our opening and press our budget. But we're happy to incur the cost if it helps to convince our neighbors of our sincerity.

We are not looking to make a quick buck at the community's expense. Both my partner and I have mortgaged our homes to pay for this restaurant, and plan to be married to the project -- he'll be in the kitchen while I serve food.

If this venture ever gets off the ground, we both look forward to serving you and your readers.

--Claude d'Hermillon Jr.,
1601 Bistro

Fans deserve penalties

To the Editor:

I wrote last year in regard to the mayhem at 15th Street and Packer Avenue after an Eagles game.

On a recent Sunday, I came home from the supermarket and parked my van in the driveway behind my property on Packer Avenue. At approximately 8 p.m., an SUV with four people came up the drive, stopped and began leaning on the horn. When my son and I went outside to see what was going on, one of the passengers used profanity to demand I move my van. Then the SUV backed out of the driveway.

We went inside and about five minutes later, I was walking around the back to the van when I saw headlights. The same vehicle came back and was pulled up on my bumper. I believe something would have happened if the cowards inside the vehicle would have gotten out. They saw me come to the side of the van and leaned on the horn and pulled away.

All throughout the time of the game and for about three hours after the game, there were at least two cop cars in front of Chickie's and Pete's, but when I needed to talk to a cop, I could not find one.

It is a disgrace that outsiders come into our neighborhood and attempt to take over and harass responsible citizens.

--Gene Carboni,
South Philadelphia

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