Dwight Evans Webchat III

This evening’s live webchat with Philadelphia mayoral candidate Dwight Evans went well. In fact, I thought it was the best of the three I have been in one. Previous webchats have been available on the campaign website, www.evansformayor.com, within a day or two and it is safe to assume this one will be as well.

There was no theme for this hour-long discussion, questions were submitted on a variety of subjects and I thought Evans gave thorough answers to all of them. Those who signed on late sometimes asked a question that had already been asked and answered but Evans was willing to reiterate and sometimes expand on what he had said earlier.

A few times I was called away from the computer to attend to family matters so I cannot provide a complete list of questions and answers. Instead here are a few of Evans’ comments and sometimes what they were in reply to. As always, let me state that these are my impressions and my apologies for any errors or misconceptions.

He would like to make Philadelphia the Hollywood of the East. One related vision is to create a Kenny Gamble entertainment district.

Regionalism is very important. As three examples, mass transit, tourism, and the health care industry all depend on the area as a region, extending outside the city limits.

We need to welcome newcomers to the city, including those from other countries. Immigrants have contacts with their home countries that can be useful to the area economy. Violence and school quality can have an impact on people coming here.

For education he plans to focus on four areas: preschool, class size reduction, modernization, and reducing the drop out rate.

Parenting not government is the answer. Parenting is the hardest job in the world.

In answer to whether or not Rep. Bob Brady should be taken off the ballot he said that was up to the courts.

He would like to stress entrepreneurship. Safety is also a concern. He said if there are no customers there can be no businesses.

In closing he said if we work for him for the next 60-some days [I didn’t catch the exact number], he will work for us for the next eight years.

The next webchat is scheduled for Monday, March 19 at 7:00 p.m. To join in simply click on the link off the campaign site.