This is part of ongoing coverage in “District 172: The Politics of Change after State Rep. John Perzel,” a collaborative effort with Philadelphia Neighborhoods funded by J-Lab.

UPDATE: Stokes and McClintock have pleaded guilty to one count each of criminal conspiracy Wednesday, and Stokes also pleaded guilty to one count of conflict of interest. Friday, Towhey pleaded guilty to one count of criminal conspiracy and one count of conflict of interest.

Three men linked to and charged in connection with the John Perzel corruption trial are expected to plead guilty this week. The former state representative’s brother-in-law, Samuel “Buzz” Stokes, former campaign aide Don McClintock and former chief-of-staff Paul Towhey are set to enters pleas between today and Friday. continue reading »

RecycleBank's Carla Castillo encourages Holme Circle residents to sign up for the citywide program and earn rewards for reducing waste.

The hour-long meeting last night of the Holme Circle Civic Association drew about 20 people. And while most came out for an update on the Stokes property, many took interest in the city’s Recycling Rewards Program. continue reading »

Mock-ups for the proposed duplexes at 2976-80 Welsh Rd.

“I will carry that message back,” is the answer most Holme Circle residents heard Wednesday night as they voiced concerns over the future of the Stokes house.

The house — a notable farmhouse among a sea of twins at 2976-80 Welsh Rd. — faces a questionable future as the owners, the Stokes family, prepare to move on.

Though the house dates back to the 19th Century, the Stokes family has owned the house for the last 70 years. But with the family spreading out and the cost of upkeep increasing, Samuel “Buzz” Stokes has plans to sell. And Holme Circle residents have plans to protect their neighborhood. continue reading »