Here's one burden off Mayor Nutter's shoulders: his job as leader of Wynnefield's 52d Ward.

Although an official election won't take place until the spring, the ward, with its 56 committeepeople, was slated to gather Saturday and offer Nutter an early endorsement for his ward position.

"Since he's so busy doing other things, this is something he doesn't have to worry about," ward chairman Steve Jones explained last week.

The gesture is largely symbolic. "It's a sign that says, 'We are happy with you,' " Jones said.

Things weren't always so peachy keen.

In 2007, during Nutter's mayoral campaign, Jones contended that it was he who had won a vote that appeared to oust Nutter as ward leader.

Nutter never actually gave up the spot, though, and what tensions were there seem to have settled down.

"Whatever differences we had, we no longer have them," Jones said. "I am his biggest supporter in the ward."

- Marcia Gelbart

Rendell dubious of Foxwoods idea

After a Friday news conference in the city on the impasse for table-game legislation, Gov. Rendell cast doubt over whether Foxwoods would succeed with a possible plan to build a temporary casino on the Delaware River.

"I don't think the [Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board] would approve it," Rendell said as he was leaving the news conference. "But I don't want to prejudge them," he added before heading down an escalator.

Two weeks ago, Foxwoods notified the gaming board that it would "seriously consider" erecting a temporary gaming hall before starting a permanent structure. The developers said potential lenders had expressed concern that if they proceeded first with a permanent casino, they might not be able to meet a deadline of May 2011 for having 1,500 slot machines in operation.

A temporary casino, however, would allow them to meet the deadline, while also continuing with plans to build a full-scale facility.

The gaming board would have to approve a temporary casino. In August, regulators ordered the developers to give up on building a casino in Center City and to return to its original waterfront site.

- Jennifer Lin

Bill on Philly pedicabs gets legs

Looking for a new way to get around Philly? Pedicabs may be coming your way soon.

Pedicabs - defined in the bill as "a pedalcycle with three or more wheels, propelled by human power, or primarily by human power with some battery-powered electrical assist, constructed and operated to transport passengers for hire" - are not legal in the city right now.

City Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown's bill was unanimously recommended for approval last week by Council's Committee on Licenses and Inspections. The bill would regulate pedicabs by requiring approved routes and licensing for operators. They would be limited to four seats (excluding the driver).

Advocates see pedicabs as another way to reduce pollution in the city and provide a good alternative to automobiles. The bill could be approved Nov. 12 by the full Council.

- Jeff Shields