The Graduate

As I mentioned during my earlier Post of Glee, today was the promotion ceremony. My family was in the crowd and afterwards, my father told me, "I have never seen you smile so much and for so long." He was right; I was downright scary happy, which was why I only posted today's news without the usual editorializing. The last thing you folks want to read is a happy, sappy Wyatt. I'm still smiling, but it's less like a "killer clown" grin now.

Anyway, the promotees were to report by 0915 for the 1100 ceremony - which was moved up from 1000 to accommodate Philadelphia Mayor John "I ain't been indicted yet" Street. We were notified of the time change on Friday. After a run-through of the festivities, the show began more or less on time. As the dignitaries approached the stage, the mayor was absent. It was announced that "hizzoner" was running late, and my friend Tony said, "He ain't coming."

After the National Anthem and an invocation - just don't tell the ACLU - several speakers addressed the class. First, D.A. Lynne "I don't prosecute famous people who beat up cops" Abraham congratulated us, and told the crowd how the city desperately needed these promotions. It was actually a decent speech, and she was very friendly when we shook hands on stage. Next, City Controller Jonathan Saidel spoke about how cops and firefighters were so special, and that he signed our paperwork for our raises that morning. (That got a terrific applause.) Saidel, who is present at every police/fire function, is set to run for mayor in '07, and will get my vote.

It's been almost a half hour, and the mayor still hasn't shown up.

Police Commissioner Sylvester Johnson spoke next, and told us all to "not forget where we came from," and treat everyone with respect. When he noticed that Street still hadn't shown, he ordered the staff to begin the procession. One by one, we approached the dais, received our promotional certificates, saluted the commish, and shook hands with the dignitaries. Abraham, Saidel, and Deputy Commissioner John Gaittens stood out; they seemed genuinely happy for us. The procession took about a half hour.

After the end of the procession, it was announced that the mayor would not be attending. Go figure. The crowd gave out a combination of giggles and sarcastic "awwww's," and we were dismissed to the second floor for our new badges (and "shields" for detectives). The detective's shield is much smaller than I envisioned - maybe two and a half inches in height - but it has hardly left my hand since noon. It's very cool.

Editor's note: I realize that this post is much of the same verbal diarrhea, but I need another paragraph to explain Street to those who never dealt with him.

John Street is everything that is wrong with politics. His utter disdain for the police officers and firefighters in this city is almost laughable. He did not attend the last Police Academy graduation, nor did he attend the funeral of Gennaro Pellegrini, an officer who was killed in Iraq. What's worse is that today's ceremony was held at Temple University's McGonagle Hall, which is not only in his former council district, but a few blocks away from his home. It is also about twenty city blocks from City Hall. He could have walked there. God, what a scumbag.