Philadelphians continue to benefit every day from the flow of federal dollars to improve our infrastructure and create jobs.

The U.S. and Europe may have more breakthroughs in neuroscience, but you have to put that in perspective. The U.S. has 350 million people, and there are 28 countries in the European Union. Israel is third behind these countries in its neuroscience developments, but per capita, it is way ahead of everyone.

There are no problems that exist in the District that have been solved elsewhere in the country. Whatever problems exist in this city exist other places.

Democracy derailed is democracy denied.

I can't talk about the education of black children if I ignored two of my nieces who were a couple of grade levels behind. I believe that charity begins at home, and I take seriously the role of a godfather to fill the gap when the parents aren't doing their job.

If I'm riding my bike I just replay the same scenarios over and over in my head, like I haven't had a new mental adventure since high school. So that's what I like about books on tape, so my mind can't wander anywhere.

We weren't wealthy but we weren't poor either. My mum was a teacher and my dad, Chris, was an England international cricketer. We were always taught respect when it came to money, and that stands me in good stead now. I've always respected my parents, and still look to them for advice when I need it.

There is no better teacher than life itself.