Gort42

PA 17th Congressional District update

2012-01-28T17:23:00.003-05:00

Matt Cartwright announced Tuesday that he take on Tim Holden for the Democratic nomination for the the newfangled 17th CD.

His announcement speech was music to a lot of Democrats ears (via DWT) saying "But when a handful of representatives from the Democratic Party turn their backs on the middle class, and start voting like Wall Street Republicans, something is really wrong. Something even more fundamental is broken.What’s broken is their promise to protect the middle class instead of the profits of big banks…or the oil & gas companies… or Wall Street. What’s broken is their promise to vote for bills that benefit the middle class and not loopholes that benefit special interests. What’s broken is their pledge to make decisions based on what’s best for the average family and not what’s best for the lobbyists contributing to their campaign funds...As a Congressman I won’t need campaign donations from special interest groups to know what the right thing to do is. I will already know what the right thing to do is....As a Congressman I will not apologize for being a Democrat. As a Congressman I will not forget that the Democratic Party is the party of Franklin Delano Roosevelt....Let’s elect a Democratic congressman who votes like a Democrat. Let’s elect a Democratic Congressman from the Democratic wing of the Democratic Party."

Contrast that statement with the press release Tim Holden sent out last March.

REP. HOLDEN RANKED 14th MOST CONSERVATIVE CONGRESSIONAL DEMOCRAT IN 2010

Rep. Holden was ranked the 187th most conservative member in all of Congress, fourth most conservative remaining Democrat after the 2010 midterm elections.

More from Howie: 2010 was a conservative year and Holden won. Since then, he has voted (on crucial roll calls) with the Democrats 31.96% of the time. That's right-- Holden has backed the right-wing agenda espoused by Cantor and Boehner 68% of the time.

I was wondering if any Republican would get into the race, none so far , then we get this from PoliticsPA

Luzerne County Councilman Stephen Urban, who made headlines last year when he switched from Republican to Democrat, is circulating nominating petitions for U.S. Congress. He would face incumbent Rep. Tim Holden and Democratic primary challenger Matt Cartwright, an attorney from Scranton....If Urban enters the race, it would be a big boon to Holden. He would likely split the Lackawanna-Luzerne bloc that is key to Cartwright’s campaign.

I don't know how much of an impact Urban would have on the the race as his fundraising for his past campaigns for Congress, State Senator, Lt. Governor, etc. (as a Repuplican) has always been anemic. He rode his name recognition to a seat on the new Luzerne County Council then left a poison pill budget as outgoing Commissioner under the old system that the new bunch can't reconcile because it just doesn't add up. I have always liked Steve but lately he has been acting like a jerk. Not taking the oath of office with the rest of our new councilors and abstaining on the vote for the Manager because he applied for the position. Now this.

Chris Carney is not running

2012-01-27T03:39:00.004-05:00

This story in the The Daily Item about a petition party for candidates in Union County caught my eye.
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Committee Chairman Rick Thomas said "We haven't heard if Carney is going to run again," Thomas said of former Democratic Rep. Chris Carney, who lost his seat in Congress to Marino in 2010. It's been widely reported that Carney planned to challenge Marino in the next election, but Thomas said there's been no news of late."If no one decides to declare at this point, it's possible we won't have a challenger on the ballot."
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There was also speculation that Carney might run in the 11thCD. He teased that he would run again but wouldn't answer the telephone calls of reporters or bloggers. There is a Draft Chris Carney Facebook page that is now dead and the Act Blue account has been deleted.
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Chris Carney landed a job with a defense contractor in Virginia and the redistricting probably put his old district out of reach. I posted in September that he was unlikley to run. Too bad, I'll take a blue dog in a Republican district over a tea bagger any day.

Kevin Haggerty for State Represenative

2012-01-27T02:50:00.004-05:00

I usually don't cover political happenings in Lackawanna County but my friend and fellow blogger Tom Borthwick of NEPartisan sent this along.
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HAGGERTY ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY IN THE 112TH

Dunmore, Pa. -- Kevin Haggerty is pleased to officially announce his candidacy for Pennsylvania's 112th legislative district.
"I believe this district needs somebody who represents their values and so I'm asking for the support of the voters of the 112th," said Haggerty. "The blue collar, hard-working families need a voice. They've been ignored by Harrisburg for too long."
Haggerty's previous experience running for state representative, along with his continued outreach to its residents, lends him insight into the needs and wants of the people of the district, he argued. "People prioritize education, they want to see legislators working to bring in new jobs, and they want to make sure their representatives are accessible and accountable. I hear that message loud and clear."
Kevin has a deep respect for public education. He knows that without adequate investment in education, our future is in jeopardy. As the state has failed to properly fund out schools, local property taxes have risen, teachers and programs have been cut, and students are being shortchanged. Coming from a family who attended public school from K-12, Kevin has a great interest in the public school system and would never vote for cuts to education. Instead, he will work to restore funding to our schools to give our kids the education they deserve and need to compete in the 21st century. Haggerty's opponent, current Representative Ken Smith, voted with Republicans to take vital funds away from education on HB 1330 and has been a supporter of charter expansion.
As a Former Member of the Board of Directors for Penn's Northeast and NEPA Alliance, Kevin has the background and experience needed to create and strengthen regional businesses. Supporting the growth of small business is essential to creating a healthy tax base in our communities. Kevin wants to strengthen programs that invest in family-owned businesses and go after employers who don't pay their fair share or allow unsafe working conditions. Representative Smith has not, in his nearly 6 years as a legislator, co-sponored any pro-union legislation, nor even written or introduced major legislation in the General Assembly. Kevin will be an active legislator who doesn't stay on the sidelines. Additionally, Mr. Smith has never adequately addressed the issues of his failure to pay taxes, his failure repay a government-backed loan, and his failure to pay into Social Security and Unemployment for his workers during the time he owned Smith's Restaurant. Kevin believes our representatives need to be held to a high standard: one of integrity and credibility.
As this is a Democratic Primary, it should be noted that Mr. Smith voted with Republicans to gerrymander the state during the Congressional Redistricting process. Kevin is vehemently opposed to disenfranchising Democrats, particularly since they have a roughly 1.8 million voter registration advantage over Republicans. Mr. Smith guaranteed Republican dominance at the expense of those whose interests he should be guarding.
Kevin hasn't stopped being an active participant in his community and his district. Reaching out to community members through local events and door-to-door, Kevin has made sure to be there to listen to the concerns of residents. That won't stop if elected. "It would be my priviledge to serve as a voice for the citizens of the 112th," Haggerty said. "I'll work tirelessly to be the representative the 112th deserves."
Kevin is a Dunmore resident along with his wife, Jennifer Griglock Haggerty, and his son, Kevin Joseph. Kevin graduated from Villanova University and is a former US Marine.
Visit TalkToKevin.com for more information

PA Supreme Court throws out reapportionment

2012-01-26T03:20:00.006-05:00

Pa. high court rejects remapping plan

Wow. This is a surprise given that there are 4 Republicans and 3 Democrats on the court. Chief Justice Ronald Castille sided with the Democrats that the plan for the state legislature chopped up too many towns just to advantage the Republicans.

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Justice Joan Orie Melvin predictably thought that was OK. In a 2009 appearance in Wilkes-Barre she gave a speech that was inappropriately long for a warm up act, Melvin basically said "elect me so Republicans make of the majority of the PA Supreme Court, and we can rig the 2010 reapportionment for the Republicans." She later had a campiagn ad with a Soviet-era hammer-and-sickle inside the "O" in Obama's last name. Now she is the target of a criminal investigation.

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Calls grow for Supreme Court Justice Melvin to resign

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Right now it looks like the old maps wil be used in the upcoming election but that could change once the Supreme Court opinion is released.

Aaron Kaufer for State Representative

2012-01-24T22:23:00.007-05:00

Young Republican Aaron Kaufman announced he is a candidate for the 120th State Representative seat presently held by Democrat Phyllis Mundy. It looks like this will be a 2 person race as no Libertarian seems to be interested unlike last time and I haven't heard of another Republican on the west side willing to take on my 4th favorite state legislator.

Kaufer gave a very polished speech saying it's time for a change and cited an old adage about not making waves in politics, he said he wanted to make waves. Then he lamented that "compromise became a dirty word" and promised to work across the aisle.

He hit 4 issues in his talk.

1. The grant system. He doesn't like WAM's

2. Government reform. He is running against the perks of the legislature opposing their pensions, health care, COLA's and the per diems of $163 a day.

3. He said some things about educating our children. We should do it.

4. Economic growth. He is for it.

Without naming his opponent Kaufer asked "are you being adequately represented"? and said "I can do better." Invoking Saint Ronny he declared "our best days are ahead."

After the event I asked Kaufer what the the first bill he would introduce he said it would be about the perks and per diems of the legislature. I asked him how much money that would save but he didn't have a number. He also favors reducing the size of the legislature.

This a great picture below. All the Republicans and a Libertarian wh0 came up short in past elections with the latest GOP candidate in the 120th Discrict.

(Lto R) Bill James, Aaron Kaufer, Rick Arnold, Tim Mullen, Bill Goldsworthy, John Cordara

Phyllis Mundy has been the State Reprensenative of the 120th District since 1991. She will be hard to beat.

Luzerne County Council to hire a manager

2012-01-24T04:24:00.010-05:00

The papers are reporting that a guy from California will be offered the job as the first Luzerne County manager under home rule later today. The CV and the TL say the pick is Robert Lawton. I don't know much about him other than what I read in papers but certainly wish him the best. He is walking into a mess of a budget situation left over by former Commissioners Maryanne Petrilla, Steve Urban and the other guy that interim manager Tom Pribula has been trying to address. He keeps proposing a mix of tax increases and budget cuts that the new council keeps shooting down. Sounds a lot like what is going on in Washington.

I have been getting beat up in the comments and other blogs for my backing of the new form of government. It's a school board, it won't work, etc. The new charter is not perfect but then what is? I preferred the previous charter with an elected county executive and a mix of distict and at-large elections for the council. That plan was shot down when Skrep and Vondy said "trust us." That worked out well.

This new form of government was passed as a reaction to the Juvie Brothers scandal for sure. The thing I like about it was elimination of most of the row offices that were power centers with no oversight. How many of them went to jail? There is no Democratic or Republican way to perform an autopsy (Coronor) or to register a will. And What the hell is a Prothonotary?

If they hire Lawton and he doesn't back out before February 21st the Yonk has some advice. A couple of my favs

Don’t take it personally if people don’t like you because you’re an outsider. People from Scranton have the same problem.

If someone says you’re a cousin….don’t believe them

Abe’s Hot Dogs, South Main, the original. Don’t settle.

There are two Steve Urbans on the County Council, one has hair, the other doesn’t. Both may seem like the same person so you’ll need to tell them apart.

Ransom Young for State Representative

2012-01-23T14:14:00.002-05:00

From the inbox:

Ransom Young announces today that he is a candidate for the Democratic nomination for State Representative in the 116th district.

Young, 57, a life-long resident of Butler Township with deep roots in Southern Luzerne County, owns and operates the family farm of four generations that has been enrolled under the Luzerne County Agricultural Preservation Program since 2001.

He is married to Deborah Jones, formerly of West Hazleton.

Young, no stranger to civic involvement has been a member of Butler Township Board of Supervisors for 28 years and was former chairman. Young has been chairman, vice chairman and is currently treasurer of the Luzerne County Association of Elected Officials. He feels his involvement will benefit both his candidacy and the people o the 116th district. "I'm proud of the fact that Butler Township boasts one of the lowest property taxes in Luzerne County. I've worked hard over the years to make sure we've kept taxes low while still providing the services the citizens of the township deserve. Despite our low taxes we've managed to build and maintain a full time police force, provided recreational facilities and maintained good roads and invested 17.7 million dollars to update our sewage treatment plant."

In describing his desire to run, Young states; "This district needs a representative that symbolizes the face of the community, and I am willing to fight for those people. I'm a blue-collar person who will use common sense when facing a problem. I think what is missing in Harrisburg is the common sense approach. As a candidate and State Representative, I promise you, no one will work harder for you than I will. I will surround myself with quality and caring people."

"The Marcellus Shale issue is something that concerns everyone. Once we lose our fresh water source, we lose it forever. We have to make sure that regulations are in place to keep our people and our water safe. We have an amazing opportunity to eliminate our dependency on foreign energy sources, if we manage it correctly. With nearly 8% unemployment in the state we must ensure that the jobs created in the gas industry are for Pennsylvania residents; we have the best skilled and most dedicated workers in America. If the gas industry paid their fair share in a severance tax, the money could go into the general fund so that the gambling revenues would go towards property tax relief as it was originally intended."

"I believe I am the best choice for this office, because I understand the issues and will represent the diverse people of the 116th district, from Huntington Mills to Hazleton. I am a farmer, worked blue-collar jobs and I have balanced budgets in local government. I'm ready to take on this responsibility and I'm asking for your support in April and November.

A Newt fan

2012-01-22T17:13:00.002-05:00

This a blast from the past. When I first started blogging one of my regular sparring partners was Dr. Rick. I haven't from him in a while until this popped up in my inbox today.

Newts Authentic Conservatism by Richard R Tennesen

The overwhelming results of the South Carolina primary indicate not necessarily that Newt Gingrich is their (or anyone’s) favorite candidate but that Newts authentic conservatism and representation of the pulse of America is best articulated by him. While accepting the victory, Newt acknowledged this very fact. Let’s be clear: America is not searching for an anti-Romney candidate. America has been searching for a bona fide conservative with the record to back it up and whose views are aligned with their own. They find this in Newt Gingrich.

Newt has an astute mind, possesses poignant debate skills, is focused on issues, continues to attack Obama for failed policy and an abysmal economy, represents American exceptionalism, and has an American Conservatives Union rating higher than any other candidate. Historically speaking, Newt also took on Bill Clinton as Speaker of the House to collaboratively enact entitlement reform, experience job growth with minimal unemployment, and enact four-consecutive balanced budgets which often get accredited to Clinton.

Some claim however, that Newt has too much baggage.

On the contrary, Newt distinguishes himself from the perceived frontrunner Mitt Romney as being the conservative not to have enacted the precursor to Obamacare in Massachusetts. Newt has legislated as a conservative, and despite Romney’s touted experience as an executive in the private sector, he neglects to mention the failures of many of those companies. Are these the kind of issues that you want to see Obama levy at Mitt on the debate stage? Romney has no retort. In fact, Obama might even suggest that the two are quite similar.

Newt Gingrich, on the other hand, would have the President sleepless at night in preparation for their debates. Fearless in confronting media bias, “gotcha” moderators, liberal talking points, and disingenuous competition (Romney), Gingrich appears comfortable at the podium and at times professorial. His media contrived reputation for having a temper and unpredictable nature is (I believe) simply a manifestation of contempt for and opposition to distractions away from the real issues. Why? Because the media knows focusing on issues is a loss for Obama on all accounts.

Some say Newt is unelectable. South Carolina results and exit polls prove otherwise. Strength in debating and command of the issues catapulted Newt to prominence and victory for making these issues forefront: “Jobs, economic growth, balancing the budget, having stable money, energy independence, & producing a modern, lean federal government.” And by contrasting this distinction between himself and the President: “The outlining of the two Americas…the America of the Declaration of Independence - the America of Saul Alinsky, the America of pay checks - America of food stamps, the America of independence - the America of dependence, the America of strength in foreign policy - the America of weakness in foreign policy.” How can one ignore these truths?

Moreover, Newt continues confronting these issues: anti-religious bigotry of media elites and judiciary, that Obama is a radical, a “food stamp” President, and brandishing him as tantamount to Jimmy Carter! Not to mention his candid remarks for the media.

The American connection with Newts is visceral. He appears authentic and speaks from the heart. By contrast, some claim Mitt Romney appears to be too slick in the manner of presentation. I believe that, plus the perception of inevitability makes Americans uncomfortable. Overcoming that hurdle is why many conservatives have been unwilling to embrace Mitt.

The explanation for Newts success is authenticity, optimism, prowess in debates, focus on issues, and clear distinctions from Obama. He is not the anti-Romney candidate. He may be, however, the anti-Obama candidate.

Luzerne County Boards, Authorities and Commissions

2012-01-22T16:56:00.003-05:00

This was sent along from my friend Kathy.

All:

It is my hope the newly elected Luzerne County Council does not hastily appoint citizens who do not qualify for positions on Boards, Authorities and Commissions. I also hope other citizens are given time and concern to apply and adjust schedules for interviews. Do not use this process to discourage or limit interested applicants. Below is part of a recent email I received:

"Dear Kathy,
Thank you for your interest in serving your fellow citizens of Luzerne County as a member of the new Accountability, Conduct and Ethics Commission.
The Luzerne County Council requests your presence at a group interview session.
Due to the number of interested applicants, several interview sessions have been scheduled.
You are invited to participate in the 8:15 interview session on Monday evening, January 23, 2012 at the Luzerne County EMA building, Water Street, Wilkes-Barre."

When I requested another date and time to accommodate my work schedule, I received notice it was the only time available.

Only one meeting time is set to interview candidates for appointments to the ACCOUNTABILITY, CONDUCT AND ETHICS COMMISSION. More courtesy was given to the County Manager candidates in regard to confidentiality and interview times. Let's toss mutual respect out the window when interacting with those who live here in Luzerne County. Since, communication with County Council members is biased, my only option is to continue with public comment and keep in communication with the press. When trying to convey my concerns about several items, one phone communication resulted with a Luzerne County Council member, Mr. Eugene Kelleher raising his voice to get his message across and hanging up in the middle of the conversation. He was defending Chairman's Bobeck's violation of the Luzerne County Charter. He then was overheard that same evening boasting about it to Chairman Bobeck that he "hung up on Dobash". Mr. Kelleher broke his campaign promise. I guess this is just another average politician at work. This County Council member campaigned and gave out his phone number prior to election as a person who is approachable. This is a great disappointment. I believed in his integrity. Has power and position gone to his head? Intimidation strategy will not work with me. Your ego is very inflated.

I will not be intimidated by Luzerne County Council members. The frequent loud intonation utilized by Mr. Kelleher to give his opinion at meetings is ineffective and projects as another political grandstanding tactic. The citizens who attend meetings and make time to address issues at public comment are not children or students. Luzerne County Council members who are former teachers cannot apply teacher classroom management strategies to this position. Let's be real here.

I hope and pray The Luzerne County Home Rule Charter is followed. A precedent has been set with one breach of the charter by Mr. Bobeck. He worked for Luzerne County while serving on the Luzerne County Home Rule Transition Committee. Luzerne County Council elected him Chair. I read a prepared statement. I stated my concerns at the January 2, 2012 meeting and requested Council not to elect him as Chair. This has been deleted from the meeting minutes posted on the website. The meeting minutes do not reflect the recorded minutes which are public record. I filed a right to know request for the recordings. I am surprised at the tampering with historical record. Why are the minutes now 'watered down'? Why do you need to protect yourselves? Why throw out documented statements by citizens and elected officials? The correct minutes should be available for the public to review. Again, this lack of respect and blatant disregard of charter prohibitions can be viewed as a direct insult to every Luzerne County citizen. This is not accurate documentation of the meeting. I am grateful we have an honest Luzerne County Right to Know Officer who follows the law and provides the truthful and accurate public record when requested. Chariman Bobeck, why are you taking time to alter the meeting minutes before posting them on the County website? Luzerne County Home Rule is about open and transparent government which allows for citizen participation.

Does Luzerne County Council respect Luzerne County residents in regard to work schedules or is this another way to limit citizens to serve on Boards, Authorities and Commissions? Candidates for the hired County Executive were catered to by using Luzerne County tax dollars to pay for accommodations, etc. during the interview process. Mr. Kelleher announced at a Council meeting he gave the candidates tours. Luzerne County citizens should be given courtesy and time to interview properly for appointments to Boards, Authorities and Commissions. These are non-paid positions to serve the public.

I respectfully withdraw my name as a candidate to serve on the ACCOUNTABILITY, CONDUCT AND ETHICS COMMISSION. I cannot attend the interview. I ask for appropriate notice with other appointments in regard to interview times and schedules so more applicants may attend the public interview.

Luzerne County is one of the poorest counties in the nation. Many people work 2 or 3 jobs to live here. Please accommodate interested citizens who strive to live here, volunteer during times of disaster, volunteer to improve the quality of life and work to make Luzerne County better.

Respectfully submitted,

Kathy Dobash,

Hazleton, PA

Joe Pa RIP

2012-01-22T16:40:00.002-05:00

South Carolina exit polls

2012-01-21T16:20:00.003-05:00

I got an email from a friend a few minutes ago saying that Newt Gingrich will win the South Carolina primary with 40% of the vote based on his/her glimpse of the exit polls. We will see.

This certainly has been a strange week in the weirdest presidential campaign seasons I have ever seen. On Thursday one story kept stepping on the other. It turns out that my favorite GOP candidate, Rick Santorum, actually won Iowa. Mitt Romney was still dodging the tax return question when asked if he would follow his father's honorable example he said "maybe." Texas Governor Rick Perry dropped out and endorsed Newt Gingrich. Newt previously said that John Bolton would be his Secretary of State so maybe he would appoint Perry as Ambassador to Turkey.

To top it off Newt turned a question in the debate about an interview with his 2nd wife who said he was a 2 timing shit who wanted an open marriage into an attack on the media. The crowd ate it up because Republicans are always the victim of some media conspiracy.

The thing I'm looking at tonight is the Herman Cain vote. It was too late for Stephen Colbert to get on the ballot and write-ins are not allowed so a vote for Cain is a surrogate vote for Colbert. I'm enjoying the mischief.

You Tube weekend

2012-01-21T16:10:00.002-05:00

POTUS sings

He covers this song

Matt Cartwright for Congress

2012-01-21T03:23:00.004-05:00

It's almost official.

From Borys: Attorney Matt Cartwright plans a "major announcement" Tuesday at a downtown Scranton hotel where he is expected to say he will seek the Democratic nomination to the 17th Congressional District seat held by incumbent Rep. Tim Holden...Mr. Cartwright gave no indication of a dissatisfaction with him on issues, Mr. Holden said.

We will see about that dissatisfaction thing.

The TL: Lackawanna County attorney Matt Cartwright will announce his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in the 17th Congressional District on Tuesday at noon at the Hilton Scranton Hotel and Conference Center.

The lefty blogosphere is buzzing about Cartwright.

Daily KOS

Jon Geeting

Down With Tyranny: But Republicans aren't the only ones running scared. Reactionary Blue Dogs who almost always go along with the worst right-wing ideas, especially when they smell corporate cash on the other end of a vote, were big SOPA supporters. Five Blue Dogs-- including two of the most corrupt in the kennel, John Barrow (GA) and Tim Holden (PA)-- were also co-sponsors. But now Holden has a progressive primary challenger, Matt Cartwright, and he's running scared. His new district is solidly blue, and his hideous right-wing voting record is indefensible. One attack from Cartwright, a prominent SOPA opponent, and Holden went running for the exit.

NEPartisan: Holden routinely votes with Republicans on their pet issues. If we want a Republican, we can elect one. If we want a Democrat, we can elect Matt Cartwright.

My post on Cartwight's Facebook page: I would be thrilled to have a Congressman from the "Democratic wing of the Democratic Party.” I could put up with Holden when he representing a majority Republican district but now that he is running in my back yard his vote against the Affordable Care Act and sponsorship of the Stop Online Piracy Act are deal breakers for me. .. If you decide to run you may want to consider giving a local blogger the scoop.
So much for a local blogger scoop.

3 Republican State Rep candidates

2012-01-20T03:24:00.006-05:00

Republican Rick Arnold will take on Gerald Mullery again in the 119th and may benefit from the redistricting. In 2010 Arnold lost by just 1300+ votes with a Libertarian candidate in the race. If this is a 2 person race it could be very competitive. He will kick off his campaign Saturday in Mountaintop.

PR: Arnold will launch his campaign before family, friends and supporters at 11:15 a.m. Jan. 21 at the Crestwood Industrial Park, Wright Township. Arnold, of Rice Township, said he chose the industrial park as the setting for his announcement because it symbolizes the major problem of the day – unemployment.

In the 121st Eddie Day Pashinski cruised to reelection last time and will face former Fairview Township Supervisor Pete Mailloux, a Republican who owns a business in Mountain Top. He will at the Wilkes-Barre Township Fire hall on Tuesday at 7:00PM to announce his run.

My 2nd, 3rd or 6th favorite State Rep Phyllis Mundy (depending on what day it is) will have a challenger, it's traditional. From the inbox:

Kingston, Pa. -- Aaron Kaufer will announce his candidacy for state representative of the 120th district in front of family, friends and supporters at the American Legion in Kingston at 6 p.m. Aaron will address the crowd at 7 p.m.

WHO: Kaufer Now Campaign, Aaron Kaufer for State Representative
WHAT: Aaron Kaufer’s announcement to run for State Representative for Pennsylvania’s 120th District.
WHEN: Tuesday, January 24, 2012, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. (speech will be held at 7 p.m.)
WHERE: American Legion Post 395
386 Wyoming Ave.
Kingston, Pa. 18704

Maybe Omeed will have to take a sabitical to fend off this challenger. No word from John Cordara.

Info for this post came from YRLC and Bob Zaruta's Facebook pages. I always link back to my sources so hopefully I won't be gobbled up in the next incarnation of SOPA and banned to Mooslyvania .

Congress bails on SOPA, protests work

2012-01-19T03:00:00.005-05:00

Google, Wikipedia, Reddit and many other sites going dark yesterday got the attention of our alien robot overlords also known as the United States Congress. A bunch of Senators and House Members who sponsored the legislation have had second thoughts and withdrew their support for the bills.

On the local level 17th District Congressman Tim Holden (soon to be a candidate in parts of the traditionally 11th CD ) was an original cosponsor of the bill had a change of heart. Good for him.

From his Facebook page: "Based on my background as a sheriff, the Stop Online Piracy Act, commonly referred to as SOPA, was brought to me as a law enforcement bill. At its core, the bill's intent to eliminate theft by foreign websites protects the intellectual property of American manufacturers of all spheres. However, the possible unintended consequences, such as stifling innovation and limiting free speech on the Internet, have come to the forefront of debate. An open Internet requires that we find a better approach that is acceptable to all sides. Therefore, I am today withdrawing as a cosponsor of this bill and will work to find a solution that protects both the openness and innovation of the Internet as well as intellectual property."

There is nothing on his official House or campaign sites.

His primary opponent Matt Cartwright also sounded off on Facebook:

This is an atrocious bill in Congress that would criminalize all kinds of online conduct if it has anything to do with someone else's content. It would shut down Facebook. YouTube would be no more. People out there exercising free speech would go to jail. In my opinion, this legislation is so full of unconstitutional infringements on free speech and unconstitutionally vague criminalization of conduct that it is hard to believe its authors even read that document they swore to uphold and defend. In protest, major websites are going dark today, including Wikipedia, and, as you can see, our own Gort42.

Overall this a fight between some big corporations with the old ones going up against the new ones. The new ones won the argument for now.

SOPA

2012-01-18T02:23:00.001-05:00

Huntsman out

2012-01-16T19:57:00.005-05:00

I can't imagine why a Mandarin speaking former Ambassador to China and Governor of Utah would not catch on with the Republican primary electorate. Maybe it's the Mormon thing. No wait, the GOP is looking like it will nominate a Mormon who will say anything to any audience despite what he has said in the past. Romney was for gay rights, pro choice and an individual health care mandate in Massachusetts before be was against them when he started to run for President so that can't be it. Actually I don't know what the problem is when he says global warming is real and evolution is scientific fact and tells Mitt Romney he is part of the problem trying to divide people.

The good news is Stephen Colbert is looking at a run to be the President of the United States of South Carolina.

The Definitely Not Coordinated With Stephen Colbert Super PAC is running an ad

It builds on the internet meme that says "I refuse to believe that corporations are people until Texas executes one."

John Lithgow narrating: If Mitt Romney really believes ‘corporations are people, my friend’ then Mitt Romney is a serial killer. He’s Mitt the Ripper.”

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Libertarians in Wilkes-Barre

2012-01-15T17:02:00.002-05:00

This will be the biggest political event in Wilkes-Barre since the Green Party gathering in 2006.

From the inbox

Wilkes-Barre, PA—During its November state meeting in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, the Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania selected Wilkes-Barre to host the 2012 State Libertarian Convention. According to current LPPA state chair, Lou Jasikoff, convention dates have now been confirmed and will run from Friday April 20th through Sunday April 22nd.

The convention will be held at the Kirby Center for Performing Arts and the Best Western Genetti Hotel and Convention Center. A kick-off “Meet and Greet” for Gary Johnson, former two-term Governor of New Mexico, and other guests begins a festive Friday evening at the Kirby Center, ending with a rocking “Friday Night at the Oldies” disco party open to the general public. Michael Badnarik’s highly renowned Constitution Class will also be offered starting Friday night. Jasikoff added that in 2004 Mr. Badnarik was the Libertarian candidate for President.

Good times.

Luzerne Dems endorse

2012-01-15T15:37:00.002-05:00

From the inbox:

At their January meeting this week, the Luzerne County Democratic Executive Committee voted to endorse Bob Casey for U.S. Senate, Patrick Murphy for Attorney General, Rob McCord for State Treasurer, and Eugene DePasquale for Auditor General, the Committee announced.

"We are incredibly proud to support Senator Casey, Congressman Murphy, Treasurer McCord, and Representative DePasquale in their bids for their respective offices. They have all demonstrated their commitment to standing up for middle and working class Pennsylvanians. We strongly endorse their candidacies because of their integrity and their dedication to social justice and equality, economic fairness and opportunity, and for government that works for everyone, not just the privileged few," said LCDC Public Relations director and 2nd District Chair Casey Evans.

You Tube weekend

2012-01-14T15:52:00.004-05:00

This video from the Newt Gingrich SuperPAC has got a lot of attention this week.

King of Bain- When Romney came to town

This ad from Newt is my favorite. Whenever I'm in Quebec or Paris I always use my high school french.

Je m'appelle Gort quarante-deux

Murphy leads Attorney General race

2012-01-13T02:44:00.005-05:00

From the inbox:

Philadelphia, PA) – Iraq war veteran and former prosecutor Patrick Murphy holds a commanding lead over his two Democratic primary opponents. In a poll conducted this week by Global Strategy Group, Murphy leads his closest challenger Kathleen Kane, 36% to 15%. Dan McCaffery finishes a distant third with 8%. The regional breakdown is even more telling. Murphy dominates the Philadelphia region, one of the most expensive media markets in the country. In the vote-rich Philadelphia suburbs, Murphy earns a staggering 61% of the vote, with his opponents trailing dramatically (Kane at 8% and McCaffery at 5%). In Philadelphia, McCaffery’s home region, Murphy leads McCaffery by 32 points – 37% to 5%. Kane trails Murphy by 27 points in Philadelphia.

Update: Blogger wouldn't save or publish the rest of this post after I spent an hour on it. Arrgugh

Food stamps

2012-01-12T03:06:00.004-05:00

Pennsylvania will deny food stamps to people with assets over $2000 or $3250 for people over 60 with some exemptions starting May 1st. Most assistance programs have asset limits so I don't think that this is out of line although the limits are certainly too low. The asset limits - $2,000 for those under 60 and $3,250 for those over - are based on figures set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 1980 and never updated. If you have 100 grand in the bank you should try to along until you spend it down or find a new job but what the proper limit should be has to be raised.

Food stamps asset test condemned as 'idiotic, heartless'

Pa. plans asset test for recipients of food stamps

The thing that jumped out at me was reading the comments on the TL website. It was full of antidotes of Newport smoking welfare queens filling up their carts with steaks and lobsters on ACCESS day if they haven't already sold their allotment to some druggie for 50 cents on the dollar.

Some choice comments

the store was packed full of folks and I mean packed and their carts were full of those bags of frozen shrimp and those packs of spare ribs on the bone ....I asked the manager what the hell was going on ....he looked puzzled for a second until I waved around the store ...then he laughed and said that day was the day they reloaded the ACCESS cards

This young female, late teens-early twenties at the Wilkes Barre Walmart, had her cart STACKED, I'm telling you STACKED, with choice cut steaks, ribs, and other expensive cuts of meat that we normally wouldn't buy for ourselves because of the cost..

We should be tougher on unwed mothers. Gotta learn to keep the knees shut.

I call bullshit on this idiocy. I know people who have to use food stamps to feed their families and they are not buying prime rib and lobsters. Most of them work in low paying jobs and are not proud of having to rely on a government a program just to eat, but you got to feed the kids. Sure there are some bad actors who will abuse the system but most of them don't.

When I was growing up my family had to use food stamps from time to time because my father went from one shit job to another and was always being laid off. I cringed when my mother pulled out the food stamp book at the Ack-a-me to pay for the groceries and hoped that none of my classmates spotted us. I skipped the free lunch at school because of the stigma attached and the razzing that would ensue. It really sucks to be poor in this country, then and now.

I'm not the only one who grew up in such circumstances.

The Blogfather:

I know what it’s like to grow up on the then-economy brand substandard foodstuffs, government surplus cheese and powdered milk. Despite the rage that simmered inside of me, I had to endure the not-so-hushed comments when my mom produced her food stamp booklets at the check-out aisle.

Last month I was asked by Tiffany on her TV show about out of bounds comments. This one that is on the TL website would get deleted by me because it accuses a public official of a crime:

I've turned people in for foodstamp fraud, unemployment fraud, hell I even turned in a former boss directly to IRS and Dan Meuser for non-filing of personal and business taxes both federal and state for six years now. He is still very much in action and not so much as a letter of inquiry from either entity.

Different rules for different venues.

Young Dems meet tonight

2012-01-12T02:06:00.002-05:00

Luzerne County Young Democrats are holding a meeting at Rodano's Public Square Wilkes-Barre tonight to discus the upcoming Pennsylvania Primary Election. Candidates welcome to attend. For more information contact Young Democrats President Thomas Shubilla at 570-239-3432 or thomshubilla@gmail.com

Luzerne County Young Democrats

Luzerne County Young Democrats Meeting on Facebook

To be fair and balanced the Luzerne County Young Republicans will have a meeting later this month on January 29th.

Luzerne County Young Republicans on Facebook

Yhe YR's have some candidates they want you to meet.

TOM MARINO ENDORSES RICK SANTORUM

2012-01-10T17:17:00.006-05:00

From the inbox:

MARINO ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR RICK SANTORUM

Williamsport Pennsylvania- Congressman Tom Marino issued the following statement-

“Rick Santorum is a long time friend of my mine. He has been a tireless advocate for common-sense conservative values his entire career. He is one of the hardest working candidates that I have ever met; his showing in last week’s Iowa Caucus is evidence of that. I want to congratulate him on his strong showing.

We have a great slate of Republican presidential candidates this year, and I will enthusiastically work for our nominee. I will also work hard to ensure that the Republicans retain control of the House and win back the Senate.

I share Rick Santorum's vision of lower taxes, less spending, private sector job creation, a strong national defense, and traditional family values. I believe that Rick Santorum offers our best hope of recapturing the White House and returning this nation to its prior position of strength and greatness. I am proud to support his campaign for the presidency.”

This will not put Santorum over the top in New Hampshire but it doesn't hurt. Marino (R-PA10) is only the 2nd PA Congressman to endorse Rick joining Glenn Thompson (R-PA5). Our own Lou Barletta (R-PA11) has not endorsed Santorum or anyone else which is probably the smart move. Why get mixed up in somebody else's fight when you are in one of your own?

Marino maybe is buying into the sweater vest craze that Rick has inspired. I checked my wardrobe and I too own a sweater vest and yes it is brown.

Gene Stilp for Congress

2012-01-09T19:04:00.004-05:00

Our friend McGruff was the first to pick up this story from the wires.

Gene Stilp To Seek Democratic Nomination in the 11th

I like Gene Stilp who has been a pain in the ass of the state legislature over the 2005 pay raise and Luzerne County politicians. I met him at the reassesment rally in 2008 when he brought his big pig. He has run for office before losing a bid for Lt. Governor and State Represenative.

In a typical appeal for more participation he called for more candidates "We have a lot of talent in the 11th congressional district,” he said, “so I’m encouraging other people, Democrats, Republicans and even Independents, to go out an apply for this job. Have confidence in yourself and if you need a job and you’re very talented, apply for this job. Apply to the people of the 11th district.”

Barletta campaign manager Lance Strange can barely contain his glee: "Anyone who meets both the ballot access requirements and the minimum qualifications spelled out in the United States Constitution is able to seek the office of representative." Take that Bill Vinsko.

Quick Hits

2012-01-08T16:18:00.004-05:00

I've been on a bit of a vacation since the the New Year so I've been slacking off on the blog but my fellow local scribes have been doing their usual great work.

So what's going on.

Penn State hired a new head football coach. New England Patriots Offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien is the pick and some are upset that he doesn't have ties to the University. I think the whole idea is to bring in someone from the outside to clean house. CRV lists his positives and he is a Brown graduate like the last guy.

The new Luzerne County Government is having it's growing pains with Urban the Elder and Urban the Younger refusing to play nice with others. Surprise. The county council has to hire a permanent manager with the whole secrecy argument of the candidates identifies getting blown up by Jennifer in the TL. Do you really think that with this many people involved in the process they could keep a secret? I like the pick of Tom Pribula as the interim manager. I think he is the only person who ever resigned a Luzerne County job on principle when he wouldn't sign off on the last budget with fictitious revenues from land sales that never happened. Like PSU there seems to be a need to bring in an outsider not connected to the politics/power structure but if that doesn't work out Tom may be a good fallback. CFD has a report card and PB gives us a reporter's view.

The new Turkey Hill in Plains is almost complete. Mrs. G says " I wish it was still the ACME."

You Tube weekend

2012-01-07T16:07:00.004-05:00

The New Hampshire primary is Tuesday and if the polling can be believed Mitt Romney is headed to a blowout win and he is leading in South Carolina. This thing could be over before the Florida primary on January 31st. Rick Santorum doesn't have the time, organization or money to capitalize on his strong Iowa finish and Newt Gingrich and Rick Perry will help split the not Romney vote. Jon Huntsman is betting everything on New Hampshire but even if he does well he will have the same problems as Santorum going forward. Ron Paul probably has the money and devoted following to stick it out to the end so Romney has to very careful with him. If he pisses of Paul he may mount an independent bid so I expect Paul to get a vote on a few planks of the party platform which almost nobody reads or takes serious anymore. We will see if that will be enough to appease him.

Back to the YouTube thing.

Via The Dish I love satire

Our local canine community is reminding me why I could never vote for Romney.

Mitt Romney abused the family dog

He put the dog on the roof of the car! What kind of an asshole does something like that? The dog was literally scared shitless. And to top it off he later gave away the dog.

PA Attorney General 2012 news

2012-01-05T16:56:00.003-05:00

My inbox lit up today with news from 2 of the 3 Democratic Attorney General candidates. Philadelpia lawyer Dan McCaffery rolled out a bunch of endorsements and the other 2 sent out press releases trying to step on it.

Philadelphia, PA – Attorney General Candidate Dan McCaffery Holds Press Conference to Announce Major Campaign EndorsementsPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania,

January 5, 2012, - Pennsylvania Attorney General Candidate Dan McCaffery held a press conference today to formally announce his candidacy for Pennsylvania Attorney General. McCaffery was joined by many prominent government, business, labor, religious and civic leaders, including U.S. Congressman Bob Brady; IBEW Business Manager John J. Dougherty; .., among others.

Capitol Ideas: McCaffery ... was in Philly formally announcing his candidacy and -- in a fit of apparent gamesmanship -- did it with union capo John Dougherty and U.S. Rep. Bob Brady at his side....The three Democratic candidates are expected to appear at an event at the Pennsylvania Farm Show on Saturday.

Bob Brady helped pass the Republican gerrymander of Congressional Districts.

Former Congressman Patrick Murphy countered with an endorsement from my favorite future US Senate candidate.

U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz Endorses Patrick Murphy for AG
Schwartz: “Murphy is a proven leader and experienced prosecutor”

(Philadelphia, PA) – Today, U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz (PA-13), endorsed Iraq war veteran and former prosecutor Patrick Murphy for Pennsylvania Attorney General. Schwartz, a prominent national voice on health care policy and women’s rights, and the highest-ranking woman elected official in Pennsylvania, praised Murphy for his tireless work on these issues.

“Patrick Murphy is a proven leader. He has fought to ensure women get equal pay at work. He has been a champion for children who need access to a doctor. He has cracked down on shady financial institutions that rob our seniors. Patrick will always stand up for working families and the values we all hold dear. His record makes that very clear. That’s what Pennsylvania needs in its next Attorney General,” Schwartz said.

“As a combat veteran, he showed his commitment to public service by putting his life on the line for our country. He’s demonstrated his ability as a prosecutor overseas and here at home. He has the experience and tenacity necessary to protect Pennsylvania families,” Schwartz added. “I’ve worked with Patrick, and together we’ve fought for our constituents and for all Pennsylvanians. I can tell you that Patrick has the character and integrity that we should expect from our law enforcement officials. That’s why I’m proud to support him for Attorney General.”

“Congresswoman Schwartz has helped shape the national debate on the most pressing issues facing our country. She has dedicated her career to ensuring that every man, woman and child in Pennsylvania has access to quality, affordable healthcare,” Murphy said. “Congresswoman Schwartz is a tireless advocate for fiscal responsibility and has fought to demand effectiveness in government. It’s been an honor to stand with her during these battles, and I’m equally honored to earn her endorsement for Attorney General.”

To top it off Lackawanna County's own Kathleen Kane announced that she has raised some big bucks.

Capitol Ideas again: Democratic Attorney General candidate Kathleen Granahan Kane writes this afternoon to let us know she finished 2011 with $2 million in her campaign account...It was not clear whether the $2 million came individual donations, was a PAC infusion or whether she has a wealthy Aunt Millie who loaned her the money.
Our friends at PoliticsPA hint the latter could be the case. They report that Kane has touted her ability to fund her own campaign. Her family owns a trucking and logistics business that looks all kinds of fancy.

I didn't get Kane's press release which may have something to do with the shakeup of her campaign staff Kane dumps Randol as campaign manager. I'm sure Liz would have made sure that local bloggers would be in the loop. My friends at NEPArtisan have been on the Kane bandwagon highlighting her appearances on Hardball discussing the Sandusky scandal.

Rick Santorum wins Iowa

2012-01-03T22:22:00.006-05:00

CNN 120,900 votes

Santorum 29,944 25%
Romney 29,926 25%
Paul 26,182 21%
Gingrich 16,210 13%
Perry 12,574 10%
Bachmann 6,064 5%

Update: When I called it a night Rick was ahead by 18 votes. The final tally is Romney 30,015 Santorum 30,007. Michelle Bachman dropped out today and Rick Perry dropped out last night but changed his mind today.

Paul Begala: "I would have never guessed Rick Santorum would be so happy about two men being tied up together...So while the winner of Iowa in terms of expectations is Santorum, the story is the man he basically tied: Mitt Romney. Not to put too fine a point on it, but when you can't beat the Man-on-Dog guy, who lost his home state by 18 percent, you stink. You really stink."

Vinsko gets support from labor

2012-01-03T18:24:00.005-05:00

from the inbox:

Gort:

Happy New Year! I hope you are doing well. I am very proud of the support I have received from across the 11th Congressional District even after Mr. Barletta and Governor Corbett made my house the boundary line. I am excited about our future and working for the people.

Please see the Press Release Attached.

The PR:

Bill Vinsko publicly thanks I.B.E.W. for their generous contribution to the Vinsko for Congress Campaign in the 11th Congressional District of Pennsylvania

Bill Vinsko, Democratic Candidate for the 11th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, would like to publicly thank the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (I.B.E.W.) and the Local Union 163 for their generous donation to Vinsko for Congress, and their support in his bid for the United States House of Representatives.

From Bill Vinsko:

“I am very proud to receive such great support from I.B.E.W. and its outstanding membership. Their workers exemplify the hard-working Americans and Pennsylvanians that I will represent when elected to Congress. They need jobs, the 11th District needs jobs, Pennsylvania needs jobs and America needs jobs. It’s time to ensure that the middle class is protected and that we put America back to work. With the help of I.B.E.W., other great organizations, and the people, it can still be done. I want to publicly thank I.B.E.W. and Mike Kwashnik for their faith in my candidacy.”

The IBEW gave him 10 grand. Note to candidate, lose the big check pictures.

I also received a piece of franked mail today from Lou Barletta. It's not as slick and glossy as the one's Kanjo sent out in the last cycle but I think that my fellow goo goos on both the left and right agree this is an abuse of taxpayer money.

Lou tells us that he and his staff has been busy navigating the federal government to help out flood victims, veterans and obtaining a visa for a woman from Togo. (I scanned it but can't get it to load). For a guy that is a member of a party that thinks that the federal government can't do anything right he seems to be trying to do his best to make government work. There may be hope for him yet.

Now that Wilkes-Barre and Plains Twp are now part of the 17th CD my focus will shift. So far no Republican has declared an intention to contest the seat and you can thank the legislature for that for dragging out the process. Not to mention what a devestating effect it had on state rep races. I doubt that any Republican can mount a serious race against the Luzerne County Democratic incumbents in the state house or Boback or Toohill on the Republican side. It was truly an incumbent protection act.

My new 17th District:

Attorney ponders run for Congress

Rep. Holden is ready for new territory

Congressman introduces himself to his new territory

PA-17: It's exactly the sort of thing Blue Dog Dem Tim Holden had to expect would happen in the redrawn 17th, a much bluer district than he's traditionally represented: a potential primary challenge from left. Attorney Matt Cartwright says he is "seriously, seriously considering" doing just that, and to erase any doubt, he invoked Paul Wellstone/Howard Dean language and identified himself as a member of “the Democratic wing of the Democratic Party.” It's a little hard to say how stiff of a fight Cartwright might be able to offer: On the one hand, he sounds like a pretty well-connected attorney; on the other hand, he's never run for office before and he doesn't sound like a self-funder. Then again, liberal activist Sheila Dow-Ford held Holden to just 65% in the primary last year, fueled by unhappiness over Holden's vote against healthcare reform, even though she raised only $30K while Holden spent about half a mil.

Waiting for the Iowa results

2012-01-03T17:39:00.004-05:00

The Presidential general election is sometimes described as the the Super Bowl of American politics so tonight we start the playoffs. The conventional wisdom is the Mitt Romney, Ron Paul and our very own Rick Santorum will finish in the top 3 with Newt Gingrich, Michelle Bachman and Rick Perry possibly looking at the end of their White House hopes.

Like the rest of you political junkies who read this site I await the results then on to New Hampshire.

This guy doesn't like some of the descriptions of his state.

D.B. Echo said...
Check out the cow at :30! From the same mold as Three-O-Nina!

You Tube weekend

2012-01-02T16:52:00.001-05:00

Out with old, in with the new

2011-12-31T15:33:00.014-05:00

I'm not going to do a top 10 list of 2011 stories but highlight some of the things that happened this past year that will carry over into 2012 that interest me. LuLac and Capitol Ideas have great recaps of the year's top stories in numerical order.

In no particular order with omissions that I'm sure you correct me on dear readers they are Luzerne County Government, Redistricting, the latest flood and the local blogosphere.

I usually don't do multi-subject posts but may start doing it the future like the quick hits of Pennsylvania Progressive and NEPartisan.

Luzerne County Government

The 3 Commissioner 3rd class county code form of government with 127 row officers has come to an end. It is being replaced by a system that is used by many county governments across the country. There will be growing pains and squabbles but I hope the news system works better than the old one.

Redistricting

Wilkes-Barre has been the anchor of the 11th Congressional District since Pennsylvania became a state but will now be part of the 17th CD. It looks like incumbent Democrat Tim Holden will face a primary challenge from Matt Cartwight. No Republican has announced a run yet. In the 11th CD the salons in Harrisburg have taken care of Lou Barletta but Bill Vinsko vows to take him on even though they drew the lines right around his house to keep him out of the district. Tom Marino looks safe in the 10th CD. Former Congressman Chris Carney teased that he would run again but that has fizzled out.

Floods

Expect more as the polar ice caps continue to melt putting more moisture in the atmosphere. I roll my eyes at the people who say climate change can't be real because it still snows.

Local Blogosphere

DB Echo has a nice summary of the resurgence of NEPA Blogs. He and Michelle have done a great job of identifying local bloggers and most of them don't have anything to do with politics. Even when I come across a new political blog one of them has it listed before I get the chance. NEPA Blogs has turned into a multimedia operation with a Facebook page, Twitter account and radio and TV appearances. A few local political blogs popped up and withered shortly thereafter although 2 sites devoted to Wilkes-Barre politics have been updated regularly with claims of corruption by city officials.

The local media is starting to notice that political bloggers are not some kids banging away in their mother's basement wearing pajama's eating Cheetos as the early stereotype depicted but are people who have experience in campaigns, government and media. Certainly as well (many times better) informed as the Captains Obvious college professors they so often run to analysis.

Joe Valenti of Pittston Politics punishes himself by going to school board meetings and constantly breaks news in the Wyoming Area and Pittston Area school districts. The CV picked up on his reporting about the solicitor controversy in WA. LuLac Political Letter editor David Yonki was spot on in his prediction in the recent Luzerne County Council race and is a regular on the radio and WYLN's public affairs broadcasts. Even I got in on the electric media recently when Tiffany Cloud invited me to be a guest on her show Storm Politics to talk about the impact of political blogging. And we all owe a debt of gratitude to the Blogfather for his work at Wilkes-Barre Online that broke one story after another that was latter picked up the newspapers often without attribution.

Blogfest was a hit again this year and I expect the spring edition will be the political event of the season like it has been the last 4 times we did it. I was flabbergasted by the turnout for the first one and many people tell me that it is their favorite political gathering. This year the primary is April 24th because of the Presidential election so it presents a scheduling dilemma. We always do it on a Friday but Good Friday is April 6th so that leaves either April 13th only 10 days before the primary election or March 30th. I think March 30th would work but we need to nail down the date. I usually invite all sorts of big shots to Blogfest and some of them even show up. We need to set a date to give a heads up to the statewide candidates for US Senator, PA Attorney General and Auditor General plus the local hopefuls for Congress, State Senate and House.

1000 words

2011-12-31T04:11:00.002-05:00

You Tube weekend

2011-12-31T03:05:00.002-05:00

Arlen Specter, stand-up comic

A quirk in the calendar

2011-12-31T02:46:00.002-05:00

WHAT HAPPENS ON JANUARY 20, 2013 IF OBAMA IS A ONE TERM PRESIDENT?

Analysis by Pope George Ringo

The Constitution of the United States provides for very simple instructions concerning the Inauguration of the President-elect of the United States, or should I say a very simple instruction: The President-elect shall take the oath at noon on the 20th of January that follows the previous November election. That is all. It does not provide for the Chief Justice to administer the oath nor does it require the oath be taken on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. IN short, the majority of Inauguration day is more traditional as opposed to constitutional. Which leads us to a very tricky situation should Barack Obama lose next November’s election to his Republican opponent.

Next year, January 20th, the day of the Presidential Inauguration, falls on a Sunday. The traditional Inaugural ceremonies, with their pageantry, parades and celebrities have been held on every day of the week over the years—except Sunday.

Several incumbent Presidents have found their Inaugurals falling on a Sunday. In 1957 Dwight D. Eisenhower took the oath in a private ceremony in the White House as did Ronald Reagan in 1985. Both Presidents were completing their first terms and the following Monday went through the a traditional ceremony with a trip to the Capitol and the parade afterwards (though Reagan’s was marred by extremely cold weather—he took the oath under the dome in the rotunda of the Capitol).

Both Eisenhower and Reagan won their respective second terms with landslide victories thereby leaving moot the question this writer shall put on to the table. Interestingly enough, the issue has not been brought up on talk shows but perhaps only because it is too early in the game.

What happens to Barack Obama if his term expires on Sunday, January 20, 2013? Does he have to vacate the White House and move over to Blair House across the street? Does President Romney move into the White House that Sunday? And then come Monday morning, does Obama drive from Blair House to the White House to escort the new President—one day in office to the mock ceremony at the Capitol? This would surely be a first in history.

Or, does Obama become the first U.S. President to experience a democratized “house arrest”. In other words, after Romney is administered the oath at noon, will Former President Obama be permitted to reside in the White House yet, barred from the West Wing ?

All of this may sound trivial, but it is in fact a relevant curiosity.

IF Obama loses, we shall be witness to a unique experience on Inauguration day. Yet, if history keeps its path as it did for all other Sunday Inaugurals, we just may witness another incumbent President take the oath in private on Sunday afternoon and spend what will be the first of four more years sleeping in an East wing bed---comfortably.
God Bless You All.

Romney: Sesame Street will be brought to you by the letter Q and Viagra

2011-12-30T03:16:00.013-05:00

From TPM: “I like PBS,” Romney told a town hall in Clinton, Iowa Wednesday. “We subsidize PBS. Look, I’m going to stop that. I’m going to say PBS is going to have to have advertisements.”...“We’re not going to kill Big Bird,” Romney said. “Big Bird’s going to have advertisements, alright?”

This statement has caused unrest on the streets. Sesame and Wall.

Tauntr

The Teevee and print press is telling us that Mitt Romney is leading in Iowa with Rick Santorum becoming the flavor of the month. Andrew Sullivan has some fun with the headlines.

Headline Of The Day
"Romney tops Iowa, Santorum surges" - Reuters.
It's a Gay Old Party, innit?

Santorum Bubbling Up Everywhere
It's getting frothier and frothier in Iowa, according to Nate Silver. The brown line (yes, it's brown) on RCP's graph is suddenly close to vertical.

Pennsylvania Auditor General

2011-12-29T03:10:00.008-05:00

Auditor General has been a steeping stone to higher office in recent years. The incumbent is Jack Wagner who term limited and ran in the Democratic primary for Governor in 2010 losing out to Dan Onorato who was defeated by Republican Tom Corbett. Wagner has received good reviews for his work as the state's fiscal watchdog so expect to hear from him again in the 2014 governor's race.

Auditor Generals that have achieved higher office include Governor Robert P. Casey and his son Senator Bob Casey. Since 196o the Democratic candidate has won the office 11 out of 13 times with Barbara Hafer being the only Republican to interrupt that run. Hafer later became a Democrat.

So far there a 2 declared candidates for the office. Democratic State Rep Eugene DePasquale from York County and Republican Chester County Treasurer Ann Duke . DePasquale was one of 36 Democrats to vote for the Congressional gerrymander in the State House. See Pennsylvania Progressive for his explanation. The attitude that legislators are in Harrisburg, or Washington, for that matter, to vote their Districts is sad. If that were the case we wouldn't need elections or legislators. As Edmund Burke said:

Your representative owes you, not his industry only, but his judgment; and he betrays, instead of serving you, if he sacrifices it to your opinion.

Somehow the abortion hotheads are mixed up in this race according to PoliticsPA. What the hell has abortion got to do with adding up columns of numbers?

One week until the Iowa caucus

2011-12-28T03:22:00.004-05:00

All the attention this week has been on the 3 way battle between the front runners Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and the surging Ron Paul but my favorite Republican candidate Rick Santorum is still in the hunt.

Iowa has a history of surprising the political commentariat with Mike Huckabee winning in 2008 and Pat Robertson coming in 2nd in 1988. A little known former Governor of Georgia somehow spun his 2nd place showing to uncommitted in 1976 as a win making him a national candidate. Jimmy Carter then won the New Hampshire primary, beat George Wallace in Florida and defeated the field in Pennsylvania wrapping up the nomination.

A 3rd place or better showing by Santorum means his longshot candidacy would allow him to go on and camp out in South Carolina skipping New Hampshire hoping to become the next not Romney. If he wins or comes in a close 2nd in South Carolina it then would be a showdown in Florida. The political junkie in me wants the race to last until at least Super Tuesday, March 6th and I can hope against all reason that the Pennsylvania primary on April 24th will be the deciding contest like 1976.

Tempering my enthusiasm Rick's camp can't do the hard work of actually getting on the ballot in an important state like his home state of Virginia.

Santorum Fails to Make Virginia Primary Ballot

Santorum was born in Winchester, Virginia and moved to Butler County, Pa. as a child. He officially changed his residency to Virginia after leaving office.

Only Mitt Romney and Ron Paul will be on the ballot in Virginia. Even fellow Virginia resident Newt Gingrich failed to get enough signatures confirming that his campaign is an unorganized mess. Jon Huntsman, Michelle Bachman and Rick Perry also failed to follow the rules.

Newt put out a bizarre ad staring an elf that is not Wil Ferrrell:

Happy Christmas

2011-12-25T13:23:00.005-05:00

Seasons greetings

2011-12-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR FRIENDS AND NOT FOR FAMILY!!!

A Yuletide message from Mean Old Man

Well, here we go again with dumb Christmastime!!! Don’t get me wrong, I’m not knocking Jesus or his birthday but why does the holiday have to be all about giving presents to people (especially people you don’t even like). Now, if Jesus himself came back I would be happy to buy him a present. He’d appreciate it, not like my stupid kids or even stupider grandkids!!! To top it all off, I have to endure these ingrates all day long on Sunday, when I’d rather be down at the VFW shooting pool with my pals.

To make things worse, this year my pals aren’t even going to be around for our traditional Christmas Eve Jamboree at the VFW. Usually, around 1 in the afternoon on that great day we all head on down there to tip a few Stegs and talk about how crappy America has become what with its hippies and socialists running Washington. Then we shoot a few games of pool, play some darts (my buddy Gummo usually wins, despite the fact that he normally downs 12 bottles of Gold Medal and six or seven shots of Seagram’s) and we just have a plain damned good ol’ patriotic time! I always enjoy this day because it helps me to prepare for the nightmare of Christmas Day at the homestead. But it ain’t gonna happen this year.

For one thing, my pal Creep broke his leg when his dumb wife made him go do some sort of prissy ballroom dancing thing. MY buddy Birch is being forced (in my opinion) to travel to New York with his harlot daughter and moronic son in law to see some stupid tinker bell Christmas show at Radio City music hall. If my memory is correct, that place was built by the great J D Rockefeller who sadly spawned a son who became New York’s first commie Governor. OL’ Nelson Rockefeller kept that music hall open with his money, so in a way I have the commies to thank for not having a great American like Birch here for our tradition. Thanks Commies!! Finally, my good pal Gummo can’t make it because he has to babysit his nitwit four year old grandson while his painted faced daughter goes to an office Christmas party. Why on Earth does a four year old need a damned baby sitter anyways??? In my day we were already stoking the coal stove and stealing the coal that went into it from boxcars. And damned if we didn’t because good ol’ Pops would have (and many times did!) packed a shiner on our jaw that would make Joe Louis cringe!!!! Good ol’ Pops, I’m no funny boy, but I always get a bit misty eyed this time of year when I think about him. He was the best. I miss him a lot.

Anyways, I guess I’ll head on over anyway and have a shindig of my own. Maybe some of the Vietnam vets will show up and I can tell them how WWII was a real man’s war and all “they” do is whine all the time. And to top off the argument, “we won our war!”. Sadly, Birch, Creep and Gummo won’t be with me to beat the hell out of them (as we usually do).

Then on Christmas I’ll endure the stupid rantings of my dumb hippie sons Clay and Harlan, all the while listening to the nail on chalkboard voices of their wives. My stupid grandkids will be jumping all around making me nervous. The only good thing to come out of the damned day will be Thelma Jean’s prize turkey with cornbread stuffing topped off by her champion biscuits. Then I’ll make myself scarce upstairs until they all get the hell out and go back to their own houses.

So, Merry Christmas all you subversives. Enjoy your day. Maybe John Boehner will come over and give you a present and snatch it back just when you start opening it! As for me, I’ll be sitting back in my easy chair, smoking a Lucky (the cigarette that went to war—LSMFT), hoisting a Steg and listening to the soothing sounds of Nat King Cole (now there was a great African American!!!) singing “The Christmas Song”. Take that Commies.

Enjoy your day and by the way, I HATE YOU ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's December 23rd

2011-12-23T04:02:00.008-05:00

Time to start my Christmas shopping.

Back in my bachelor days I usually waited until Christmas Eve to buy my yuletide gifts until one year I got stuck dealing with a minor crisis at the hotel I was General Manager at the time. When everything was finally under control it was after 9PM and went shopping to find that the stores had closed early. So I had to hide out for 2 days. I learned my lesson from that episode so now I start shopping on the 23rd because it's hard to hide from the wife for 48 hours. Not that I've got any better at gift buying.

So I will wander out today and do my best to stimulate the economy. After the black Friday thing starting at midnight on Thanksgiving I expect to see after Christmas sales to start at midnight on the 24th.

I'm not the only one doing some last minute shopping.

Obama, Bo sneak out of White House for shopping

Home alone at the White House, President Barack Obama headed on an impromptu Christmas shopping trip Wednesday with first dog Bo, searching for some holiday cheer despite the latest stalemate with Congress.

Of course the usual suspects objected to the President's shopping trip. Sometimes I think these people object to the fact that he is breathing the same air.

McCain to Obama: More work, less shopping with Bo

Cantor to Obama: First Dog Can Come to Negotiations

And The Corner drove way over the right wing cliff with this one. To their credit the commenter's shot it down.

Bo and B.O.

This may not be the biggest story of the year, and in all likelihood it probably isn’t even true. But did the president really order the first dog back from Hawaii to the White House to be a prop for a Petsmart photo op?

Just about every blogger with a knowledge of history compared this nonsense with the Fala idiocy of the 1940's. President Roosevelt may just have won the 1944 election with this speech:

"These Republican leaders have not been content with attacks on me, or my wife, or on my sons. No, not content with that, they now include my little dog, Fala. [laughter] Well, of course, I don't resent attacks, and my family don't resent attacks — but Fala does resent them. [laughter] You know, Fala is Scotch, and being a Scottie, as soon as he learned that the Republican fiction writers in Congress and out had concocted a story that I'd left him behind on an Aleutian island and had sent a destroyer back to find him — at a cost to the taxpayers of two or three, or eight or 20 million dollars — his Scotch soul was furious. [laughter] He has not been the same dog since. [laughter] I am accustomed to hearing malicious falsehoods about myself — such as that old, worm-eaten chestnut that I have represented myself as indispensable. But I think I have a right to resent, to object, to libelous statements about my dog! [laughter]"

Steve Bennen brings it up to date:

I recommend Obama go on TV and give the following speech:

Republican leaders have not been content with attacks on me, or my wife. No, not content with that, they now include my little dog, Bo. Well, of course, I don't resent attacks, and my family don't resent attacks — but Bo does resent them. You know, Bo is Portuguese, and being a Portuguese water dog, as soon as he learned that the Republican fiction writers in Congress and out had concocted a story that I'd left him behind on a Hawaiian island and had sent a 747 back to find him — at a cost to the taxpayers of two or three, or eight or 20 million dollars — his Iberian soul was furious. He has not been the same dog since. I am accustomed to hearing malicious falsehoods about myself — such as that old, worm-eaten chestnut that I'm constantly apologizing for America. But I think I have a right to resent, to object, to libelous statements about my dog!

Mike Carroll voted for the Congressional gerrymander

2011-12-22T03:23:00.008-05:00

I'm surprised that there has not been more outrage over the new Congressional districts approved by the state legislature in the print and electronic media. But the reaction has been "so what, that's the way it is." Much like the national press accepting that every bill in the Senate needs 60 votes to pass without pointing out that the filibuster was rarely used in the past. The only people who are kicking up a fuss are bloggers.

Pittston State Rep Mike Carroll (D-118) voted for the new Congressional map joining 36 other Democrats in the PA legislature and 128 Republicans to approve it. I only met Carroll once at the 1st Blogfest so I don't know why he wants Republicans to win more elections to the US House of Representatives. Maybe he is looking to run for Congress in the future in the now Democratic friendly 17th CD when/if Tim Holden retires.

In the next election the 118th includes my little burgh of Plains Twp. and I'm open to helping a real Democratic primary challenger and if that fails maybe even a (shudder) Republican candidate. I'm not a one issue voter like the abortion hotheads or gun nuts but this vote betrays his party and the people of the the 11th Congressional District.

See NEPartisan for a Lackawanna County perspective

Selling Out PA in NEPA: Ken Smith, Sid Kavulich, Ed Staback

Santorum surging in Iowa

2011-12-21T03:21:00.005-05:00

In the latest PPP in Iowa my favorite presidential candidate Rick Santorum (R-VA) is now in a dead heat for the lead of the also rans. Ron Paul has 23 percent, Mitt Romney 20 percent, Newt Gingrich 14 percent. Fourth place is a tie between Rick Santorum, Michele Bachmann, and Rick Perry at 10 percent. Polling in a caucus state is not as reliable as it is in a primary but it bumbs along the horse race narrative.

I've worked in many election campaigns where it was hard enough to identify your voters and convince them to take 15 or 20 minutes out of their day to vote let alone try to get people to show up for a 3 hour meeting. Newt has been dropping like a rock in the surveys and I have been reading that he doesn't have much of an organization in Iowa. Ron Paul is surging and has an army of volunteers and dedicated followers that matters. If there is a blizzard on January 3rd he will win going away. Romney is spending big in the state hoping for a 1-2 punch with a 1st place showing followed by a win in New Hampshire.

Santorum has been working the state hard and yesterday he got the backing of two so called family values leaders. Rick has an organization and has visited all 99 counties.

Two Iowa conservative Christian leaders this morning endorsed Rick Santorum for president

One of them, Bob Vander Plaats, asked Bachman to drop out of the race. This thing is so much up in the air that it is not inconceivable that Santorum could be the surprise of the night finishing 3rd or better.

Yesterday Santorum reminded me why he is my favorite Republican candidate when he said:

HP: "They talk about income inequality. I'm for income inequality. I think some people should make more than other people, because some people work harder and have better ideas and take more risk, and they should be rewarded for it. I have no problem with income inequality."

He then launched an attack at President Barack Obama. "President Obama is for income equality. That's socialism. It's worse yet, it's Marxism."

TP: A recent poll found that Americans’ fears about income inequality are growing, with two-thirds of likely voters saying the middle class is shrinking, and 55 percent saying that income inequality has become a big problem for the country. Santorum, evidently, thinks more of the same is what they need.

Just for fun

Adultery Dating Website Ashley Madison Endorses Newt Gingrich:

Extra-marital dating website AshleyMadison.com has erected a billboard of serial adulterer and presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich in Bucks County, Pennsylvania that reads: “Faithful Republican, Unfaithful Husband. Welcome to the AshleyMadison.com Era.”

They really wanted Herman Cain.

Matt Cartwright for Congress?

2011-12-20T02:51:00.005-05:00

When I first read this speculation on Pittson Politics that someone from up our way could take on Democrat Tim Holden (PA-17) in the upcoming primary in the newly gerrymandered district I had my doubts. Holden is a long time member of Congress that has been able to raise gobs of campaign cash in the past and the calendar would work against any hopeful. The primary is April 24th with nominating petitions closing February 14th. That is a tight schedule when most Congressional campaigns in the past have started in the summer or fall the year before when the boundaries were known.

Taking Wilkes-Barre and Scranton and the towns in between out of the 11th CD depriving me the representation of Lou Barletta and the chance to vote against him in 2012 at first enraged me because it defied geography, history and common sense. Now the 17th is centered on W-B and Scranton by population with rest of the district consisting of chopped up parts of a few other counties so it presents new challenges and opportunities.

Looking at the new landscape a Lackawanna County attorney Matt Cartwright is looking at a challenge to Holden in the Democratic Primary according to Roderick Random in the Scranton Times. He takes a shot against Holden saying Congressmen are bought and paid for he's heard suggestions that congressmen should wear uniforms like NASCAR drivers with logos representing their special interest benefactors. He declined to directly criticize Mr. Holden. Then he says money won't be a problem for him "I don't think financing is going to be a problem," Mr. Cartwright said.
What stickers he would wear was not discussed. It might be an ambulance logo judging by his law firm ads.

"I have to say that I have not been satisfied with the job Congress is doing, and he's been in there," Mr. Cartwright said. He said he would "stand up to the White House."

"Somebody needs to do that for the Democratic policies and demand they take stronger positions with some of the things they don't now."

Tim Holden voted against the Affordable Care Act and is a sponsor of Stop Online Piracy Act which may put many of small online businesses out of business. I'm not so parochial to suggest that we should vote for our guy instead of a longtime Congressman but I'm open to suggestions.

LuLac throws out some names and Omeed backs Cartwright

You Tube weekend

2011-12-17T22:10:00.004-05:00

My good friend DB Echo sugested this one:

Inside baseball or is it blog-ball

2011-12-17T19:40:00.004-05:00

After the all these years the Blogfather still slays me. He explains that he recently switched his ISP and has been busy posting a some YouTube videos. In fact a lot of YouTube so I left a comment "This Youtube access must be a new venture for you sir."

This had the desired effect and he responded with a post... let us not forget that I was the first local blogger to embed a YouTube video, as well as the first local blogger to embed a video featuring original content. While I may not give a hoot about being cutting-edge these days, remember, there was a time when most of you were playing catch-up. In fact, all of you were bringing up the electronic rear-guard.

Very true and I have always cited Mark as my inspiration to start blogging.

In the local blog-a-rama, what once was the ultimate in citizen activism has now morphed into being the endless pursuit of celebrity.

Just a few weeks ago he was praising our local bloggers foray into the traditional media.

NEPA Blogs: Worth the ether they are printed on

Somehow, Gort, Michele and D.B. Harold have built NEPA Blogs into a weekly television show. A brief television show, but a television show nonetheless.... Speaking of Gort, He and The Yonk once made an appearance on WILK’s Sunday morning Pennsylvania affairs show (the name escapes me) with Rusty Steele. And they were once both regulars on WILK’s election day coverage until one of it’s self-important hosts decided that bloggers that were invited to appear needed to be berated and belittled on the air.

The Yonk stills makes occasional appearances on WILK, as well as appearing on Hazleton’s WYLN TV political shows.

Joe Valenti’s blog is mentioned every now and again on WILK, as well as in local print stories.

So what is it? Should we just bang away on our keyboards and be pure spurning any requests from local TV, radio and newspapers to comment on the issues of the day? Mark, you have been the subject of more print stories than any of us. Our otherwise excellent local political reporters have a bad habit of running to the local Captains Obvious college professors for a quote on an election which I think is lazy. Bloggers know what is going on in local races because we go to the events and talk to our neighbors. Reporters are pulled all over the place and college professors just spew the conventional wisdom. I was thrilled when the Yonk was quoted in this story.

Yes, I was recently on TV and maybe will be again. I don't think that is a bad thing as bloggers pay attention to what is going on and have a lifetime of experience to share.

But I also like YouTube especially Zappa

Blogger beware and fight back

2011-12-16T19:09:00.004-05:00

Local blogger Justin Vacula was recently threatend with a lawsuit because he took issue with some of the claims of a local chiropractor in which he claims that he has information which can "gain victory over any health condition" including "cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, back pain, sciatica, fibromyaligia, and even weight loss"

If this guy can solve all those problems I want to meet him.

You Tube weekend

2011-12-16T18:55:00.002-05:00

This is pretty wild. Madonna with a crown of thorns then on the cross.

Christmas Pet Blogging

2011-12-15T19:29:00.004-05:00

Quincy is helping to decorate the Christmas tree.

And Ptolemy is waiting to tear it down.

Pennsylvania Congressional Redistricting-Reaction

2011-12-15T17:33:00.006-05:00

On my Facebook page:

2010 Republican GOP primary candidate David J Madeira "My house was redistricted out of the 10th"

2010 Phyllis Mundy campaign manager Omeed Firouzi "My house was redistricted out of the 10th District too!"

Me "My house was redistricted out of the 11th."

Here is a list of Luzerne County towns moving from the 11th to the 17th.

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CITIES of Pittston and Wilkes-Barre and the TOWNSHIPS of Jenkins, Pittston, Plains and Wilkes-Barre and the BOROUGHS of Avoca, Dupont,Duryea, Exeter, Hughestown, Laflin, West Pittston, West Wyoming, Wyoming and Yatesville.

The Lackawanna County perspective comes from NEPartisan.

The 10th District, represented by Republican Tom Marino, used to be held by Chris Carney, a Democrat. Carney is still in the district, being from Susquehanna, but the district has gotten redder – it has lost upper Lackawanna County (Dem) and parts of Luzerne County to swing all over the place. It goes all the way to Mifflin, Juniata, and Perry Counties. Never heard of them? You wouldn’t. We’re from NEPA and that’s nowhere near here. Marino’s district, because of Republican efforts to stop Chris Carney from making a comeback, is now, geographically, the largest in the state next to the equally absurd 5th.

LuLac

Lou Barletta just won the biggest political lottery of his life. The gods of gerrymandering and redistricting have smiled brightly on the fair haired (okay dark haired boy) from the Mountain City. Lou Barletta now loses the Democratic bastions of Pittston, Wilkes Barre and Scranton....Wilkes Barre and Pittston speak for themselves in terms of Democratic supremacy. No Republican has served in Wilkes Barre since the Council-Manager form of government in the 60s and no one in Pittston has served as a member of the GOP since the late 1950s

Bill Vinsko vows to stay in the 11th CD race

“I am running in the 11th and I am staying put right now,” he said. “Here’s why: the reason is that the issues do not stop at party lines and the issues don’t stop at boundary lines. And I want to be the Congressman for Northeast Pennsylvania and for Central Pennsylvania, and my concern is not the lines but the people...“I am not planning on moving at this time,” Vinsko said. “With a nine-iron I could hit a ball into the 11th from my yard.”

Wow, If Bill can hit a 9 iron across the river to Kingston or into Hanover he is much better golfer than I am. But then just about everybody is. I gave up golf after the last time they figured out my handicap and I got special parking.

The law does not require a member of congress to live in the district he or she represents, just in the same state.

Lou Barletta denies having anything to do with the new bounderies which is doubted by many people.

“My original and one of my only requests was that we keep Luzerne County whole and together because it is my home county, so I was disappointed in the fact that Wilkes-Barre and the Wyoming Valley and Pittston were not included.” ...The former Hazleton Mayor noted that he won Luzerne in 2010 by approximately 10,000 votes and in 2008 by about 5,000, and guessed Harrisburg Republicans were likely planning for the entire decade – not just him....“It’s a ten year map. While I have been able to do well in Luzerne county, it’s a county that I’m from. So, I don’t think the map was drawn specifically for me.”

The Pennsylvania Republican Gerrymander

Gort on TV

2011-12-14T17:34:00.003-05:00

I was the guest of Tiffany Cloud on the WYLN show Storm Politics today. This was first TV show for me although I have been a on few radio shows before and as the old joke says I have a face made for radio. It was fun and Tiff was a gracious hostess who is also a long time reader of Gort42. I made sure I gave a shoutout to my blog buddies in NEPA.

The show can be seen on Service Electric W-B channel 7, Service Electric Hazelton channel 35 and Metrocast channel 7. It is not available to those of us who have Comcast but you can see it online at this link:

http://www.wylntv.com/

Or just go to the WLYN home page and click on Watch Online on the top bar.

Air Times:

Tonight 8PM

Thur 9:30PM

Sat 5PM

Sun 11AM

Mon 8:30PM

Tues 9:30PM

Pennsylvania Congressional Redistricting-11th

2011-12-13T18:31:00.004-05:00

Up until 2001 Scranton was the anchor of the 11th Congressional District of Pennsylvania for over 100 years then it moved to the 11th to make it safer for Republican Don Sherwood. That worked out well for the GOP. Wilkes -Barre has been the anchor town in the 11th for even longer.

Now reports say both Wilkes-Barre and Scranton will be moved to the 17th in snake like district represenated by Tim Holden.

Wilkes-Barre, Scranton out of Barletta's district

Vinsko will still run for Barletta's seat

This goes against history, geography and common sense.

I asked Vinsko and Barletta's press guy for a statement. Vinsko hasn't responded yet and I got the usual mush from Barletta's spox

Representative Barletta will continue to focus on spurring job creation and economic growth, cutting wasteful overspending and overregulation, fighting systemic fraud and abuse, reforming the government so it is efficient, effective, and affordable because these issues are critically important right now, regardless of where constituents live.
Representative Barletta looks forward to serving his new constituents in the United States House of Representatives.
Running for Congress three times since 2002 means Representative Barletta has built lifelong friendships in all parts of the existing district, and those friendships will continue long after lines on a map are drawn.

Just after that popped up in my email I got a call from Congressman Barletta. He denied he had anything to do with the redistricting process and wanted to keep Luzerne County whole. Then we had a long conversation about inside baseball.

PA State House redistricting

2011-12-12T22:56:00.009-05:00

Late this afternoon the new boundaries for the Pennsylvania State House and Senate were revealed. As usual Borys is on top of what it means for Lackawanna and Luzerne counties with a list of what towns will be switching districts. It's hard to visualize without a map to actually look at but I'm sure our local papers will have them tomorrow.

I don't cover Lackawanna County much so I will leave it to my friends at NEPartisan to analyze what this means to citizens north of the border with the move of the 115th to Monroe County and 117th and 118th that have been mostly in Luzerne County getting chunks of Lackawanna.

The 120th represented by Phyllis Mundy appears to have the least change picking up Edwardsville from the 117th which makes it a bit more Democratic as far a registration goes.

Mike Carroll's 118th seat has Monroe County towns taken out and is moving both north and south. According to this Plains Township will now be in the 118th despite being in the 121st for a long time and will now snake up to include some Lackawanna towns such as Moscow. I know both towns and they have different concerns. I live in Plains and we have more in common with W-B than Moscow or Pittston.

The 121st (Eddie Day Pashinski) will still be centered on Wilkes-Barre and W-B Township but will move south to include a part of Mountaintop, more of Hanover and throw in Laurel Run, Sugar Notch and Warrior Run. Ashley moves to the 119th ( I'm not sure how they pulled that one off) and the district makes into the Hazleton Area that has freshman Rep. Gerry Mullery objecting.

I only looked at 3 of the traditional 6 House Districts in Luzerne County and have yet to look at the Senate bounderies but is apparent that the people drawing the lines ignored geography, the common interests of the people invovled and common sense.

It may take 10 years but it would be good idea to take the redistricting process out of the hands of the politicians. Much as I advocate Judge's on Merit. Sometimes we need less politics deciding the ground rules.

Outgoing Commissioners leaving a mess

2011-12-11T17:39:00.003-05:00

This is a guest post from Wil Toole. Wil held various administrative positions in the City of Pittston and was a candidate for the new Luzerne County Council in the Primary. When it comes to county/municiple government he is one of the most knowledgeable people around.

Merry Christmas, You're Fired!

The outgoing County Commissioner's have finally outdone themselves. They have prepared a budget that if adopted would bring county government to its knees and bring the business of the people to a shattering halt.
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This budget is far beyond what could even begin to resemble a working budget and in my mind is nothing less than a parting slap in the face to every Luzerne county resident.
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I will put the cart in front of the horse and comment on the real problem of county finances. Simply put, it is the debt. The debt service in 2008 was budgeted at just over $1 million dollars. It jumped to $21.8 million in the 2011 budget and for 2012 the debt services is listed as $24.8 million dollars. And there in folks lies the problem. The solution is to remove the debt service from the general fund and treat it as the separate animal that it is. The problem was not addressed properly so as a quick fix, it must be seen as a separate issue and a debt reduction fund must be created with millage dedicated for that purpose. The general fund millage would be adjusted to reflect this change. The next step would be to renegotiate the entire debt and to try the debt reduction plan I offered two years ago. The practice of creating future debt must stop post haste and not a dollar should be borrowed that does not affect the health and safety of our residents. NO MORE SPENDING!
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As you look at the current proposed budget, there was no thought or effort put into it. If there was then shame on the mini minds that created it. I will state a few examples of why the budget is unworkable.
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On the expense side the budget goes against logic and prevents various departments from operating and in some cases lock horns with the law.
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An example of ignoring the law would be the Court Stenographers. The 2011 budget is listed at just under 1.1 million dollars. They have spent as of October $876,532. The new budget is $750,286 which is a cut of 44.45%. The problem is that a court stenographer must be present and create a written record of every action taking place in the court system. This line item is designed to fail.
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The Prothonotary's office was cut from just over $1 million dollars to $607,793 for a 68.96% cut. This office is required for the operation of the courts and maintenance of various legal documents. The other Row offices have been cut to unmanageable amounts and the reasoning that they will no long be separate offices does not hold water. The Row Officers were removed from existence but not the duties of each office. Records are still required and the fact that these offices are located in three separate buildings has not even been considered. The cost of the individual Row Officer will be eliminated but there remains a need for management and supervision. How do you maintain control and effectiveness when the cost of doing so is removed from the budget? The Register of Wills budget was cut 50%, Clerk of Courts cut 57%, Treasurer 57% and the Coroner cut by 29%. These cuts are a budget directors dream come true but they are a manager's nightmare. The Department of Probation is cut 35% and it appears that the outgoing commissioner's must think that no criminals will be placed on probation, no fines and fees will be collected and restitution for victims will be forgotten. The Magistrates are cut 53.23% and I would think part of their logic is that one magistrate office might be eliminated. Flawed thinking because if that happens, it wont occur till 2013 so they must still operate.
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The Commissioners have given no thought to the fact that there are contracts in place but union and business. Example, of the 17 Magisterial offices, approximately 10 have leases with local municipalities and these local governments are planning their budgets with these leases in place. The remaining office have private sector leases and I doubt that these landlords are willing to cut the leases in half. Other than that, please consider that many Magisterial offices only have two clerical people so if they are cut in half, that leaves one person to run the office. If that person is sick or on vacation the office must close, there are no backup staff. The deeper you delve into this fantasy budget, the more childlike it becomes.
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This is just a brief overview of the expense side of the ledger and I didn't even mention other big ticket items such as the prison, Moon Lake, etc.
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The lack of thought is pretty evident when you consider that insurance and benefits remain about the same and this is after the county workforce is decimated. Is that logical?
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On the income side, there has been nothing done in the form of creative management and the lack of effort is obvious in the numbers as they currently exist.
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Steps that can be taken is the restructuring of the county debt, increasing probation services fees, the more active use of home arrest vs incarceration. This would result in the criminals (non violent) paying the cost of the ankle bracelets and supplying their own health care, food and clothing. The county spends millions each year on health care for prisoners. There can be an attempt to renegotiate county leases and discussions can be held with the unions to accept a temporary pay freeze or renegotiate the amount of the contracted pay increases. Probation fees for both adults and juvenile offenders must be increased. Some of these fees have remained unchanged for a number of years.
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The thing I must caution on is that balancing the budget on the backs of the employees is never a good idea and long term, it causes a negative impact on county operations. The county must offer an early retirement incentive but they must pledge to not fill the vacated positions and the unions must agree to allow for transfers to save jobs. Employees must be allowed to transfer within the system to fill job needs and avoid layoffs in one department and hiring's in another. It is also possible to consider voluntary short term layoffs. Yes the county is self insured but the amount paid on layoff would equal the net pay of employees, not the gross. The costs of Social Security alone would be significant.
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This is a time for creative thinking, not the simplistic approach that was used to gut the budget and give no thought to the consequences. For those incoming Council members who have taken the NO taxes approach of the Tea Party mentality, there is a reality that government is useful and serves a purpose. The problem in Luzerne county is that in recent years, little thought has been given to economic management and taxpayer responsibility. Services must be provided and in many cases are required but the delivery system can no longer be based on careless spending such as the palm reading time clocks and patronage with little thought to required funding.
Taxes are a requirement for services delivered and thoughtful frugal management must be the foundation of responsible government.

And former State Rep Kevin Blaum weighs in with his TL column

Commissioners continue to cause damage Kevin Blaum In the Arena

With only 45 days remaining in their tawdry tenure, the county commissioners brazenly made two appointments to the Luzerne County Community College’s Board of Trustees and named two more to the often pivotal county planning commission...On Monday your Luzerne County commissioners voted to create a bi-county authority to run the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. The Lackawanna County commissioners followed suit, and each body gets to make three appointments to the board with each appointee serving a four-year term...Worse, the commissioners might be leaving behind a political budget document set to explode early next year, forcing the new council to raise taxes only a few weeks in or preside over a government that makes huge cuts in the office of a new district attorney and the new judiciary in which it functions.

So let us give thanks to Maryanne Petrilla, Stephen Urban and Thomas Cooney for reminding everyone why voters marched to the polls en masse to abolish the offices they hold and to establish a new, reform government that assumes its responsibilities on Jan. 2.

You Tube weekend

2011-12-10T18:47:00.002-05:00

Luzerne County budget

2011-12-09T03:23:00.005-05:00

The good news is that it doesn't use fictitious revenue from land sales or borrow more money. The bad news is it includes personnel cuts in the court system and other departments that will not stand.

County budget includes deep cuts

The largest preliminary cuts from 2011 expenditure levels are: probation, down $1.2 million; prison; more than $900,000; magisterial courts, more than $800,000; district attorney, more than $600,000; domestic relations, more than $600,000; stenographers, more than $300,000.

Carolee is not happy

2012 budget down $3.5M

County Prothonotary Carolee Medico Olenginski blasted Urban and Petrilla after the meeting for cutting $419,000 out of her budget, saying the loss would reduce the revenue generated by the office and “sabotage the new government.”
“In my opinion, they are vindictive, evil people and are taking their last shot at me because I stood up to them and could not be compromised to stoop to their level of bad government."

Nor is Judge Burke

Burke: Lawsuit over judiciary budget cut may happen

"There is a mandate to fund the court system at the level of "reasonable necessity.' The current proposal would fall woefully short of meeting that standard, and the court will continue to review all budget matters over the next weeks with a goal of coming to a funding resolution with county officials," Burke said Monday.

Gort42 Luzerne County Courthouse special correspondent Ethel Price has some inside info:

Petrilla sent an email to all departments telling them to prepare a new departmental budget to conform with the budget figures the commissioner's prepared. She also advised them to prepare a list of positions that would equal the budget cuts.

The row officers sent her a reply pretty much telling her to go screw herself and they were not going to cut staff for her and she should do her own dirty work. Apparently Carolee told her in very strong terms how she felt about it.

Today I got my hands on the overall budget and to tell you it is a mess is a gross understatement. For example, Petrilla/Urban cut the magistrate offices by over 53%. They cut some of the rents in half. Now think about that ..... in many offices, there are only two clerks so if the remaining clerk is sick or on vacation, the office will have to be closed. There are leases with private landlords who will not sit and give up half of their agreed upon rents. Approx. 10 of the 17 offices are housed in municipal buildings and these local governments also have leases and they are pretty much done with their budgets using figures from their leases ......... now what?

This is just a small part...... the Court Stenographers budget is cut by just over 44%. How can that be? These stenographers are required by law and must be present for every court action. How will this be accomplished when the budget is cut almost in half?

The big thing here is that the cuts that were made were not made from the proposed 2012 budget. They just threw those numbers away and these are cuts against the 2011 budget.

This budget is absolutely unworkable. The cuts were made without regard to employee contracts or legal requirements.

It really is a cluster f***. Petrilla and Urban put their heads together on this and all they did was prepare a budget that kills balances. The debt is the real culprit and it is impossible to pay the size debt we have by balancing the budget on the backs of the employees. It just can't be done. Debt needs to be funded by special dedicated debt mileage and the budget must be addressed on a needs basis, not a wish list.

David Freed for Attorney General

2011-12-08T02:14:00.010-05:00

From PoliticsPA

Carlisle — In the crowded lobby of the Cumberland County courthouse, District Attorney Dave Freed launched his bid for Pa. Attorney General Tuesday afternoon. He repeatedly emphasized his record as a tough-on-crime prosecutor.
“The vast majority of my career has been spent prosecuting criminals. I’ve prosecuted capital murder cases, run grand jury investigations, taken down child pornographers, locked up drug dealers, child molesters and arsonists,” he said.
Freed was flanked by several of his colleagues – District Attorney James Martin of Lehigh County; Tom Kearney of York County; and Shawn Wagner of Adams County – and introduced by Ed Marisco of Dauphin County. His website boasts the endorsements of 20 Republican DAs from across the state.
He joins Pa. Senator John Rafferty (R-Montgomery), the only other declared Republican candidate.

When you look at the picture I posted and the banner he has on his website he appears to have Michelle Bachman eyes.

CasablancaPA has some information about both Republican candidates

SMOKE = FIRE

And, unsurprisingly to anyone who is familiar with the Pennsylvania state legislature going back to, well, forever, Rafferty's staff received quite a few campaign reimbursements... Check it out for yourself here. If there is one thing we've all learned since 2007, campaign reimbursements have always led back to illegal campaign activities IF a prosecutor issues subpoenas and investigates.
.

MAYBE RAFFERTY WILL GIVE US A BONUS, TOO

Beyond merely surrounding himself with some of the largest beneficiaries of the legislative bonuses he abhors, Rafferty seems to have a more significant problem than just schizophrenic taste. How does it look for a candidate for Attorney General to hire as a leading member of his campaign team a current target of an on-going grand jury investigation? What signal does it send to the investigators at the OAG who are still investigating the Senate Republican Caucus' operations during Mike Long's leadership?

"IT'S OBVIOUS [HE] DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE LAW"

Will anyone ask Harley, the Office of Attorney General, or Governor Tom Corbett whether Leroy Zimmerman's son-in-law "obviously doesn't understand the law?" Or, was Harley just spouting nonsense on the taxpayer's dime to protect his boss politically?

Freed told Capitol Ideas that he will drop out if he doesn't get the backing of the PA State Republican Committee

"I will not run without the endorsement," he said. "I have no problem saying that."

The winner of the primary or endorsement contest will face one of 3 Democrats in the General election.

They are Dan McCaffery who is backed by Congressman and head of the local Philadelpia Democratic party Bob Brady. Scranton native Kathleen Kane who has been on Hardball discussing the Sandusky scandal.

Former Congressman Patrick Murphy has also been proposing protections for children in the wake of the scandal and stands up for fellow veterans. Murphy was the leader in Congress for the repeal of DADT. I was in the military in the 70/80's and we knew who was gay but didn't give a shit, all that mattered was if you could do your job.

Murphy made it to the last Blogfest which got major props from me and our local scribes. We will have another gathering before the April primary and expect even more statewide candidates in addition to the local hopefuls to attend.

Pennsylvania Congressional Redistricting

2011-12-07T03:32:00.005-05:00

A Capitolwire (subscription required) story yesterday about the latest plan for the gerrymandering of Congressional Districts got the chattering classes and candidates , well, chattering. The first 2 maps floated here and here will not look like the final version according to this story.

The Republicans want to chop up Luzerne County
"Since the weekend the biggest change has been adding Wilkes-Barre and Pittston to the district of U.S. Rep. Tim Holden, D-Schuylkill, along with Scranton and other Democratic areas. Republican advisors to Rep. Lou Barletta, D-Hazleton, did not want those two areas to stay in Barletta’s district, fearing they could help lead to his future defeat." And they want to add Wyoming County to the 11th CD so Barletta can be another voice in Congress for the gas drillers and help his fundraising.

Lou Barletta's press guy Shawn Kelly gives a politically correct answer to this speculation.

No Barletta in proposed area district
W-B, Scranton in zone with Easton

“Why wouldn’t Rep. Barletta want Luzerne County whole?” Kelly asked. “He won it twice, handily – by 4.8 points in 2008 and by 13.4 points in 2010. It’s his home county. It’s where he’s best known. Rep. Barletta wants to keep Luzerne County whole. Period.”

Bill Vinsko blasts the Republican creative map making

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRESSMAN BARLETTA AND THE STATE LEGISLATURE ARE TURNING THEIR BACKS ON THE PEOPLE OF NORTHEAST AND CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA.

As has been widely reported over the last few weeks, the Congressional District Boundaries in Pennsylvania are being released this week. First, Lou Barletta got rid of the only county he could not win – Lackawanna County. Then he cut out the only county he won once – Monroe County.

Wilkes-Barre, Pittston, Duryea and Dupont, and several other Luzerne County municipalities, have always been a part of the 11th Congressional District. Interestingly, Congressman Barletta, in an effort to avoid having a strong challenge from Bill Vinsko on November 6, 2012, is supporting a move tonight to surgically remove Wilkes-Barre, Pittston and several other Luzerne County municipalities from the 11th Congressional District. It seems now that he does not even trust the people who actually elected him.

We are calling on Congressman Barletta, the Governor and our state legislators to work to keep Luzerne County intact and put the people ahead of politics now! It is no wonder why people are fed up with Congress. Now, our own Congressional leaders are attempting to steal the election and take away the rights of the people.

The following is a statement from Democratic Candidate Bill Vinsko:

“If Congressman Barletta is afraid to face voters who live in the heart of his own District, then he should work harder to convince them by doing his job. Under this plan it’s downright wrong that Luzerne County will be broken into parts and the voice of our people will be muted in Washington for brazen political reasons. I call on Congressman Barletta to publicly ask the state legislature and Governor to keep all of Luzerne County in the 11th and to keep the voice of Northeast Pennsylvania strong and united in Washington,” said Bill Vinsko.

Capitol Ideas says that the whole thing will be pushed off for a week.

Former 10th CD Congressman Chris Carney is lurking around.

Christopher Carney Gauging Support for 2012 Bid

On Friday, Carney met with a dozen Keystone State political fundraisers, former donors and organized labor representatives to discuss a 2012 campaign, according to a source who attended the roundtable discussion at a downtown Philadelphia political consulting shop.

Yonk on the mend

2011-12-07T03:06:00.002-05:00

Last week my good friend David Yonki told his readers of the Lu Lac Political Letter that he will be out of action for a bit getting some medical attention. I talked to him yesterday and I'm happy to report that he is doing well and will be back in action shortly. He has been well taken care of by a tall redheaded nurse with an uncanny resemblance to Gina Davis.

I believe her name is Rozetta

Do the Republicans want to win the White House in 2012?

2011-12-06T03:08:00.009-05:00

I've been an observer of Presidential politics since shortly after I learned how to read but I've never seen anything like this pre-primary season. Serious candidates like Mitch Daniels and John Thune took a pass then Tim Pawlwnty dropped out after the Iowa straw poll after losing to Michelle Bachman.

Donald Trump was leading the polls in the spring peddling birther nonsense then his bubble burst when Bin Laden was killed and he decided to go back to his TV show. Texas Governor Rick Perry was cheered for executing people and raised a bunch of money but couldn't speak in complete sentences and had a memory lapse. Then it was pizza guy Herman Cain who was sunk by an allegation of a 13 year extramarital affair after being accused of sexual harassment. Cain dropped out Saturday and the Borowitz Report translates his statement:

But before I go, let me share with you my final thoughts on my campaign. After months of crisscrossing this great land of ours and participating in over three hundred televised debates, I am being disqualified because of an extramarital affair. And that raises the following question: are you fucking kidding me?

I mean, let’s get real. I never heard of Libya. I didn’t know whether that CNN dude’s name was Wolf or Blitz. And my only training for running the #1 nation in the world was running its #8 pizza chain. Yet none of that, I repeat, none of that disqualified me. In fact, I was the front-fucking-runner, as long as I kept my 9-9-9 in my pants. (I have no idea what I meant by that — I just like saying 9-9-9.)

But here’s the part that really kills me. You’re kicking me to the curb because I was messing around, and instead you’re going with… Newt Gingrich? I repeat: are you fucking kidding me? Oh, I know what you’re saying: you love Newt because he’s an “intellectual.” Well, Newt Gingrich is the intellectual of the Republican field the way Moe was the intellectual of the Stooges.

Now the front runner is Newt Gingrich who is an ideas man. Most of them are bad like having grade school kids work as janitors. Now he talks about bipartisanship after poisoning the atmosphere in the 1990's.

Every Word Matters: Using 'Keywords' as a Political Tactic

Gingrich's negative words for Democrats

"Anti-flag, anti-family, anti-child, anti-jobs, betray, coercion, collapse, consequences, corruption, crises, decay, deeper, destroy, destructive, devour, endanger, failure, greed, hypocrisy, ideological, impose, incompetent, insecure, liberal, lie, limit(s), pathetic, permissive attitude, radical, self-serving, sensationalists, shallow, sick, they/them, threaten, traitors, unionized bureaucracy, urgent, waste"

Now Trump is back in the news saying he will be the moderator of a Newsmax debate about a week before the Iowa caucus that has some Republicans balking . Newt doesn't have a ground game and even if he wins an early contest or 2 it's hard to see him lasting in a contest with Mitt Romney. Andrew Sullivan said that Romney makes plastic look real.

Back to my original point. I really don't think that the Republican media machine want's to see President Obama defeated. It would be bad for ratings for FOX News and Rush Limbaugh if they didn't have a Democratic President to beat up. Not to mention what it would do to their book sales.

11th CD news: Barletta and Vinsko

2011-12-04T16:20:00.004-05:00

Congressman Lou Barletta has been in the news lately. He got House Speaker John Boehner to view flood damage in Bloomsburg and blasted President Obama's visit to Scranton saying "The people of Scranton would rather have a job than a visit, especially a visit at taxpayers’ expense.” He thinks that the President should stay in Washington trying to make a deal with the Republicans who reflexifely oppose anything he proposes even if it was their idea in the first place like the indvidual mandate .

I think the President is right using the bully pulpit and Barletta just may be listening. While saying he doesn't want to raise taxes on anybody Barletta won't rule it out. TT:
Mr. Barletta told The Times-Tribune by telephone he still favors a payroll tax extension and is open to considering an expansion and even the proposed surcharge.
"I think we should keep all ideas on the table if we can pay for it," he said. "I wouldn't rule anything out at this point. I'm open to leaving everything on the table and let's get the best idea."
But his preference is to not raise any taxes, he said. I guess that is progress in his thinking.

This week he sent out some press releases supporting a bill to make road signs easier to read.

Rep. Barletta is the lead Republican sponsor on bipartisan road safety bill

And getting into the holiday spirit

Rep. Barletta's district offices to be collection sites for Toys for Tots program. That's cool.

New, unwrapped toys will be collected at Rep. Barletta’s Wilkes-Barre and Taylor offices between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The addresses of those offices are:
Taylor, Lackawanna County: 802 South Main Street, Taylor, PA 18517. Phone: (570) 562-6240. The office is in the same center in which state Rep. Sid Michaels Kavulich has his office.
Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County: 1112 State Route 315, Plaza 315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. Phone: (570) 235-1420.

Democratic challenger Bill Vinsko has been defending the civil rights of a Bloomsburg University
student and posted a new soppy video:

Sarah Palin said some nice things about Rick Santorum

2011-12-03T03:31:00.006-05:00

Sarah Palin said some nice things about Rick Santorum (R-VA) on Fox News that he touting in a fundraising email.

Gort
“If voters start shifting gears and deciding they want ideological consistency, then they’re going to start paying attention to say, Rick Santorum.”
Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin said that last night on Fox News about me, and I wanted to make sure you heard about it as well.
I am grateful for those kind words from a strong conservative like Governor Palin. And it’s becoming more clear that other conservatives are starting to rally around our message of passionate conservatism.

I love it when a politician sends a personalized email when hitting me up for money but I'm unclear what the difference is between a passionate conservative and a compassionate conservative like Bush advertised. I think it might be something akin to being a benevolent axe murderer as Mike McGlynn once said in the CV.

Michelle Bachman said she would consider him for VP.

CNN: Bachmann threw out a few names Wednesday when asked who her potential vice-president would be, including fellow candidate Rick Santorum...The congresswoman from Minnesota also floated Santorum as a potential attorney general, saying his legal acumen was top notch.
"I think that Rick Santorum is a wonderful man personally, but also, I think that he's very gifted when it comes to the area of legal issues."

Rick is charming all the girls saying "I’m the one you want to take home to Mom.”

Rick Santorum a Hit With the Ladies

Technical difficulties

2011-12-02T02:42:00.013-05:00

Yesterday I received a message from my friend Wil Toole

Not sure if it is me, my puter or your site ....... there is brown background which prevents me from reading your postings.

The blog looked normal on my computer so I told him to check back later. I didn't make any changes to the template and haven't had to mess with the html code since the last blogger update so I thought it was a problem with his computer. I checked the blog on 2 other computers and it appeared fine. Then I got a few other messages saying the thing and I finally figured it out. It's a browser problem.

Gort42 looks fine on Internet Explorer 7 but is all messed up on Firefox. The last few months I've had the opposite problem with a few sites. Whenever I load NEPartisan and Oliver Willis with IE7 I get a pop up box that says the site is running a script and freezes my computer requiring me to do a restart but they both work fine when I open them with Firefox.

I'm not sure what the problem is but I will try deleting some recent links and pictures to see if it will solve the problem. So bear with me folks while I try to solve this problem instead of posting about a few of these stories.

.
Feds set to probe Sterling project

Payroll tax break: Extension proposals from both parties fail in Senate

No challengers yet for Luzerne County state legislators

Lou Barletta compra programa de la piedra de Rosetta para aprender español

Update: The culprit was Michelle's picture of President Obama I snagged from her flickr account.
I deleted it and everything is back to normal.

Corey O'Brien gets some national press

2011-12-01T11:03:00.001-05:00

The New YorkTimes story a day before President Obama's visit to Scranton created something of of a buzz. It says that this is Hillary Clinton country full of Reagan Democrats who may vote for a Republican this time around. Despite what the Professor thinks Barack Obama will win Luzerne and Lackawanna counties in 2012 but our area but it will be a battleground as it always is. Expect the President and VP Biden to visit us in the run up to the election and the Republican nominee will also make a few stops.

At first I focused on this quote “For many people here, Obama is too liberal,” said Ed Mitchell, a Democratic strategist based in nearby Wilkes-Barre. Sorry Ed, Obama is not liberal enough, if he was he would hire retiring Congressman Barney Frank as Press Secretary or maybe Bernie Sanders or at least listen to their advice.

Lackawanna County Commissioner Corey O'Brien's remarks got the most attention “Enough with the soft approach,” said Corey O’Brien, a Democratic Lackawanna County commissioner and early backer of Mr. Obama. “He’s got to say, ‘I’m in charge, and I’m going to get it done with or without Congress.’ ”

A few people chastised Corey for not knowing how the the Federal government works.

Where Campaigns Work Well

No, Barack Obama is not Harry Potter

FOR SOME REASON, a lot of people think after that his inauguration, President Obama was handed a top secret magic wand.

Kevin Drum: Republicans have to be chortling at this. It's exactly the response they've been hoping for as we head into election season...

Political Animal: Just to be clear, my point is not to pick on Corey O’Brien, an Obama supporter. He’s very likely frustrated and concerned, and knows plenty of people in his community who are equally frustrated and concerned. I don’t blame them in the slightest — given the larger economic circumstances, their anxiety is well justified....The public likes to think of the President of the United States, no matter who’s in office, as having vast powers....Americans hate Congress, overwhelmingly dislike Republicans, and the notion that the GOP is sabotaging the economy just to undermine Obama is widely believed. And yet, the president may suffer politically because many voters expect Obama to succeed — despite unprecedented Republican obstructionism — by “getting it done with or without Congress.”

The Plume Line

Why GOP benefits from blocking Obama’s jobs policies

I thought it would be worth checking back with O'Brien to get a sense of how widespread this sentiment is in that region, a bellwether area that Obama is set to visit today.

Turns out it is widespread, and that this dynamic may well be in full force. O’Brien said that many voters from the region are fully convinced that Republicans are deliberately trying to block Obama policies that might help alleviate joblessness — but that in their minds, the buck still stops with the president.

“People see that Republicans have been the party of blocking progress — that’s clear,” O’Brien told me. “The people of northeastern Pennsylvania, who will help decide who wins the state, all understand what’s going on.”

But he added: “They still look at the president and say, `the buck stops with the president.’ And that’s something the president has to overcome.”

O’Brien predicted that Republicans would not be rewarded for their obstructionism in the end. But he depicted an extremely volatile political environment, in which people are enraged by government’s failure to alleviate people’s economic suffering. He said Obama still needs to find some way of either securing some GOP support or making it even clearer that he grasps the depth of pubic rage over gridlock and that he’s the one fighting to make things better.

“The frustration is boiling over,” he said. “There’s an awareness here that the president can’t do this alone and that’s never been more true than it’s been now.” But he again characterized public sentiment by saying: “The buck stops with the president.”

And there you have it.

UPDATE: O’Brien got in touch with me after Obama’s speech today, and he sounded convinced that Obama was striking the tone he needs to strike. He said he thinks Obama “scored a lot of points” with eastern Pennsylvanians.

POTUS in Scranton

2011-12-01T03:07:00.011-05:00

I wasn't able to make it but a couple of our local bloggers had front row seats. I spotted Michelle (thanks for the pic) and Karla on MSNBC before the event started and await their reports. Sorry, I don't do Twitter.

Only the Yonk and the Blogfather have post game reactions up so far. David says "We hear all about the job creators but my question remains the same, What have they have been creating in the last three years? Tell me. Point me to a private industry jobs program, point me to an industry that has adopted a patriotic mantra to get America working again? Answer me those questions and I’ll shut up about taxing the rich...Obama needs to stay tough" and Mark repeated his usual digs at unions and government workers saying "With no record of achievement to run on, expect a steady of dose of the obfuscation and the class warfare until he's trounced next November."

Before the President spoke 3 of our friends on the right greeted him. Politics in NEPA had a creative post knocking him for a campaign stop because of sagging poll numbers, green energy jobs and the housing market and also took a shot at Corey O'Brien. McGruff posted a press release from 10th CD Congressman Tom Marino alleging "his insistence on sticking to his worn-out ideologies and Chicago-style politics is clearly hurting the national economy." Chicago-style politics? I wish he was more like Mayor Daley and knock some heads together. Pure Bunkum called him Robin Hood and also mocked the fiction that this wasn't a campaign event. Since Betty has taken the side of Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham I'll quote the President:

Now, I know you hear a lot of folks on cable TV claiming that I’m this big tax-and-spend liberal. Next time you hear that, you just remind the people who are saying it that since I’ve taken office, I’ve cut your taxes. Your taxes today -- the average middle-class family, your taxes today are lower than when I took office, just remember that. We have cut taxes for small businesses not once, not twice, but 17 times. The average family’s tax burden is among the lowest it’s been in the last 60 years. So the problem is not that we’ve been raising taxes. We’ve actually been trying to give families a break during these tough times.

I agree with my friend DB Echo who is an unemployed/underemployed blogger

I still didn't really believe that people would really and truly intentionally cripple the economy in an effort to hurt their political opponents, and to hell with the consequences, to hell with all the people who would be hurt. Even after Democratic members of Congress came out and stated directly that Republicans were intentionally hurting the economy to hurt President Obama's chances of re-election.

Even after employers came out and said they refused to do any more hiring until that half-breed Kenyan-born Muslim socialist fascist was out of the White House.
Until John Boehner got up and said, yes, that's exactly what we're doing.That was months ago. It hasn't gotten any better since then. The political battle is ramping up. Job seekers are being held hostage. The economy is being held hostage. Republicans want to maximize economic suffering to drive home the point that Americans made a terrible, terrible mistake when they elected Barack Obama in 2008.

Instead I think the point they are making, and underlining in red, and circling and drawing arrows and lightning bolts next to, is what a terrible, terrible mistake it was to load up Congress with even more Republicans in 2010.

Unfortunately, a large proportion of the electorate is soft-minded and easily manipulated. Yes, they say, Barack Obama is a failure, just like Rush Limbaugh said he would be! And besides, those Democrats are evil, what with their love of abortions and gay marriage and the Fourteenth Amendment and all that other un-American crap. I gotta vote Republican!

Republican PA US Senate candidates

2011-11-29T03:35:00.005-05:00

It has been a long time since Pennsylvania has reelected a Democratic Senator, I think Joe Clark was the last one. Bob Casey clobbered Rick Santorum in 2006 propelling Santorum into a run for President that will get barbers laughing again.

So far 9 Republicans have lined up to take on our Senior Senator with a few others looking at the race.

Nine and Counting? GOP Contenders Vie For Casey's Senate Seat

The candidates are:

Tim Burns (R) - BioTech Executive & '10 US Rep. Nominee
David Christian (R) - Business Consultant, Vietnam War Veteran & '84/'86 US Rep. Nominee
Laureen Cummings (R) - Tea Party Activist, Nurse & Businesswoman
John Kensinger (R) - Pharmacist & '10 Write-In CandidateKeith Loiselle (R) - Medical Technology Executive
Sam Rohrer (R) - Ex-State Rep., Businessman & '10 Gov. Candidate
Marc Scaringi (R) - Attorney & Ex-Congressional Aide
Tom Smith (R) - Retired Coal Mining Company Owner & Tea Party
John Vernon (R) - Retired Army Officer & Iraq War Veteran
Steve Welch (R) - Biotech Corporation CEO, Mechanical Engineer & Ex-Democrat

This field will be whittled down before the April 2012 Primary because some of them will not be able to get the 2000 signatures to get on the ballot and the Republicans usually line up behind whoever wins state party endorsement. I'm rooting for Lackawanna County underdog Laureen Cummings and I have been invited to an event for John Vernon. Sam Rohrer is the most familiar name having run for Governor in 2010 but got crowded out before the primary.

Steve Welch is an atractive candidate because he can self finance a campaign and has put up a web ad that is worthy of the Onion. My lefty friends rip it apart but I think that it is so stupid that it is funny. Get a sense of humor people.

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE: BOB CASEY BORN IN KENYA, POSSIBLY GAY - A new web video from Pennsylvania Senate candidate Steve Welch is your latest demon sheep. The fake "Nightline"-style news segment highlights similarities between Bob Casey and President Obama's politics by postulating that the Pennsylvania senator and the commander-in-chief are actually twins and/or the same person (it's a little muddled in that respect). A slew of fake "experts" testify to Casey and Obama's alleged familial connection. It's a cute concept, and the production values are truly top notch. However, instead of leaving the viewer with the impression that Obama and Casey are related, the basic takeaway is that the two men are really gay for each other. The video features a torrent of photos of the men wearing the same clothing (including one withmatching argyle sweaters!). The announcer asks, "Is it possible Casey has some unconscious desire to become one person with Obama and somehow morph together?" He goes on to ask Dr. Melinda Farraday, "body language expert," whether she "see[s] two colleagues who just think and act the same, or is there something deeper?" Dr. Farraday is unequivocal: "The touching and the hugging, much more than you would ever see by just two colleagues." Take it to Vermont, you two!

President Obama in Scranton

2011-11-27T14:47:00.003-05:00

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday, November 27, 2011

NEW DETAILS: President Obama to Travel to Scranton, Pennsylvania to Discuss Payroll Tax Cut

WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, November 30th, President Obama will travel to Scranton, Pennsylvania where he will continue to push Congress to act to extend and expand the payroll tax cut that has given tax breaks to millions of families across the country this year. The President’s event at Scranton High School will be open to pre-credentialed media and ticketed members of the public.

He will speak at 2:45PM

PUBLIC TICKET DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION

A limited number of tickets will be available to the general public. Tickets will be distributed TOMORROW, Monday, November 28, 2011, beginning at 4:00pm at the Main Entrance of Scranton High School.

Chris Carney for Congress

2011-11-27T13:40:00.000-05:00

I have been sitting on this story because I wanted to confirm some details and talk to Chris Carney before throwing out speculation without doing my homework. But if you snooze you loose and the Dean of local political reporters Borys beat me to it.

Carney could be planning comeback

Like Borys I have been unsuccessful in my attempts to talk with Carney despite contacting everyone I know that is in touch with him. They assured me that they passed on my messages but the phone has yet to ring.

I have been able to confirm is that there is a Chris Carney for Congress campaign staff and an Act Blue Page with 25 donors so far. He has also sent out of couple of teaser emails.

There is a Draft Chris Carney Facebook group which I thought was wishful thinking as there is also a Draft Dick Cheney page backing a war criminal for President. The page administrator passed along a few emails from Carney that I questioned the veracity at first but they turned out to be legit. I put them on Google Docs so you view can view them. Resonable Ledership and a Veterans day message.

Tom Marino certainly deserves a challenge as he has voted in lockstep with the Republican leadership including supporting the Paul Ryan plan that would destroy Medicare and blow up the budget. Then he voted for a Balanced Budget Amendment that would make the Ryan plan impossible, even Ryan voted against it. He even favors other radical proposals.

CV: Marino said downsizing government is a way to cut wasteful government spending while keeping taxes low. Just like businesses, he said the federal government must do more with less and should revert back to the spending levels of 2002....He suggested getting rid of government agencies such as the Department of Energy, Department of Education, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Internal Revenue Service which, he said, is "causing grief for people trying to run a small business."

We will probably have to wait until redistricting is done to find out if Susquehanna County will be in the 10th or 11th CD to get a decision from Carney. Although he can run in either district if runs against Lou Barletta and his home is in the 10th you will hear the carpetbagger charge.

The clock is clicking so he will have to make a decision soon if he is going to able to raise the money to mount a challenge to either one of them.

Black Friday starts early

2011-11-25T15:12:00.004-05:00

The last few years the big retailers have been opening up at 5AM or earlier offering "door buster deals" but they decided that wasn't good enough with many of them opening the doors at midnight or earlier on Thanksgiving Day. I can't imagine going to work or shopping after my triptophan induced coma. We watched the Lady Ga Ga special when I woke up.

I know that many stores make a big chunk of their yearly profits in the Christmas shopping season but this is ridiculous. The local news have stories about people camping out waiting for the doors to open then showing the rush. This will only encourage the big box stores to shit all over their employees. No wonder Occupy Wall Street has hit a nerve.

An employee of Target collected 200,000 signatures on a petition asking the company to roll back its Black Friday shopping hours but the corporate mouthpiece said no go because the shoppers demanded that they open at midnight. She added the the company big wigs would also be in the office early. Expect this guy to be fired in a couple of months on some "unrelated issue". The human toll not only includes the loss of family time.

PAHOKEE, Fla. -- A woman coming home from working her early-morning Black Friday shift at Target fell asleep at the wheel and drove into a canal, Palm Beach Sheriff's deputies said Friday.

Pure Bunkum sums it nicely with tongue firmly in cheek: Finally, the stores get us.
We want Thanksgiving out of the way as fast as possible. It’s a nuisance holiday standing between us and our Christmas shopping.

Mrs. G wanted to drag me out shopping today, I'd rather eat glass. I'm not going to deal with this nonsense

Black Friday sales start with pepper spray stampede

But few can have expected even the most determined of bargain-hunters to adopt the brutal tactics of one female shopper in a Los Angeles suburb who attacked her rivals with pepper-spray: a substance more recently associated with police brutality against Occupy Wall Street protesters...At least 20 people, including several children, were injured as the woman deployed her weapon....

This reminds me of the famous Zayre's Cabbage Patch Riot

THERE'S A RIOT GOIN ON: IN THE CABBAGE PATCH

They consequently caused consumer mayhem like in the above video clip from 1983 when a riot at Zayre's department store in Wilkes-Barre, PA broke out in which shoppers had limbs broken and teeth knocked out-- all in an effort to get to these "adoptable" lil creatures

The Blogfather had a few posts about the riot when he was writing Wilkes-Barre Online

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T02:13:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving is a time for family

2011-11-23T04:59:00.003-05:00

Or maybe not

WHY DON’T THEY JUST OUTLAW THANKSGIVING!!!

A holiday message from Mean Old Man

Here we go again with the stupid and useless holiday, Thanksgiving!

Once again, I have to put up with my two dumb sons and their even dumber kids, not to mention their harlot wives. Damn!!!! What the hell is so special about the damned day anyhow? Everyone gets together to eat turkey and stuffing. If my wife Thelma Jean wanted me too, I could provide that practically every day courtesy of my trusty Remington. But some idiot down the way had to come up with an idea to make a holiday about eating damn supper!!!

In my day we celebrated Thanksgiving too, but it wasn’t like nowadays. Back then spoiled snot nosed kids knew their place and if they didn’t an adult in the room would be more than happy to show them the way courtesy of a fat lip. Those were the days! I remember one Thanksgiving when my old man came home from the breaker with one too many Stegs in his belly. Mom had the turkey on the table with all of the trimmings and I could still recall how good everything smelled. Anyways, Pops came out of the washroom and stumbled right into the table, knocking the leg off it and the entire turkey and rest of the food with it! All on Mom’s clean kitchen floor. I could still hear the howl in the kitchen, NO NOT FROM MOM, but from Pops because Mom had ruined Thanksgiving by not moving the table a little further from the washroom door. Fortunately, Mom had a spare turkey (that Pops had shot) in the ice box and she had to cook the meal all over again. It took hours but Mom didn’t complain because back then women knew their place and it wasn’t standing on a stage with Gloria Allred!!!! By the time we did finally eat, Pops had a long nap and was sobered up, at least until he hit the bottle again after dinner. Good Ol’ Pops, what a guy. I miss him a lot.

Women today don’t even know how to cook, let alone improvise like good ol’ Mom did. My two sons, Harlan and Clay married women whose idea of cooking a meal is throwing a TV dinner in the oven or boiling a box of spaghetti. No wonder my dumb grandkids look like refugees---and think like nitwits.

And don’t even talk to me about how my day is going to be ruined. Thelma Jean can cook a turkey with the best of them and her biscuits are the best in the world---even Joe Paterno would smile this turkey day if he tasted one!! But this great meal is going to be ruined by all these damned “family” events. I always tell my sons to go to their in-laws for dinner, but apparently even my daughters in law’s mothers can’t cook either!!

I’d like to know where my damned sons are whenever I need help fixing the chicken coops or the septic tank. Or even painting the barn!!! You know where? If you do let ME know so I can give them a good kick in the shins, like my Pop would if I disrespected him!!!!!

I’ve a mind to just skip the whole damned family thing and go to the Thanksgiving gathering at the VFW. I know that my good pals Creep, Birch and Gummo will all be there and the barkeep Mitch is making the turkey and the stuffing. Ol’ Mitch worked the mess hall back in WWII and he can make a feast out of a morsel. Plus there will be plenty of Steg there and I won’t have to worry about any of my sons swiping it.

So, all you subversives have a nice Thanksgiving. Don’t forget to send your holiday donation to the DNC. As for me, I’ll be at the bar having a few Stegs, dining on some of the best grubb this side of the Mason Dixon , puffing on a Lucky, and listening to the soothing sounds of the Andrews Sisters singing “Apple blossom time”. To hell with my stupid sons, and grandkids and their harlot wives! And while I’m at it to Hell with all of you too!!!
Happy Thanksgiving.

Scranton USPS facility threatened

2011-11-23T02:44:00.005-05:00

The use email and online bill paying has continued to reduce the volume of mail handled by the Post Office. Couple that with some budgeting rules that requires the postal service to prepay future expenses and a limit set by Congress on the increase of the cost of postage it's no wonder that the system has a financial crises.

A few reform proposals that I have read make sense. Change the prepay rules and bring them in line with normal accounting standards and let the price of a stamp rise to a rate that reflects the cost of delivering a letter. In most Western countries first class postage is twice or more of what we pay. Even that may not be enough so the Congress should consider funding the USPS shortfall. I don't know when the Post Office became a quasi business instead of an essential public service. It is an essential public service that can not be replaced by the private sector. Fedex, UPS, DSL, etc. can't match the level of service provided by the Post Office.

Locally, budget cuts are threatening local jobs. Postal officials are looking at whether or not they should move the mail processing plant from Scranton to the Lehigh Valley.

There was a meeting last night to get public comment on the proposal. The comments were not supportive of closing the facility.

Scranton post office backers state case

Public Meeting Held on Scranton Mail Processing Facility

Postal officials expect they will save more than three million dollars by moving the processing center but local union members say it would have a much bigger hit on the local economy."The hit will be somewhere between $27 and $30 million, with probably $1.7 million lost in local and state income taxes."

11th CD Democratic candidate Bill Vinsko was at the meeting and posted this on his Facebook page:

I was proud to stand with and support the postal employees union in Scranton tonight at Scranton High School in their bid to keep the Scranton Area Processing Center open and avoid moving operations to the Lehigh Valley. This is a regional issue and concern, which will affect Luzerne and Columbia Counties. We need to do what we can to save jobs like these in NEPA! When elected to Congress, I will work to protect jobs like these!

Congressman Lou Barletta was not in Scranton for the meeting. He was at Wilkes University talking about, what else, immigration.

Immigration in spotlight

“Qué indica es que esta ley; esta cuenta se apropiará de cualquier ciudad de hacer cumplir E-Verifica si el gobierno no lo hace primero.”

Un potro del truco

Update: A response from Barletta spokesman Shawn Kelly

I read your post about the potential closing of the mail processing facility in Scranton. Rep. Barletta is concerned about this issue and was represented at the meeting by a staff member.
More than that, Rep. Barletta isn’t just talking about helping the U.S. Postal Service; he’s actively working to help it and protect its employees. Rep. Barletta is a cosponsor of and strongly supports H.R. 1351, the United States Postal Service Pension Obligation Recalculation and Restoration Act of 2011. This bipartisan bill would allow the Postal Service to apply billions of dollars in pension overpayments to the congressional mandate that requires the USPS to pre-fund the healthcare benefits of future retirees.
H.R. 1351 could protect the mail processing facility in Scranton and other postal facilities because it would alleviate the need for some of the drastic cost-cutting measures the USPS is being forced to consider.
In fact, earlier this year, dozens of postal workers took to the streets in front of Rep. Barletta’s Hazleton District Office to thank him for his support of H.R. 1351 and the postal service employees. Rep. Barletta spoke with those employees and personally pledged his support of H.R. 1351. A photo is attached.
As for your comments regarding the illegal immigration forum, it must be noted that illegal immigration impacts American jobs. Even the most conservative estimates say there are 11 million illegal aliens in the United States. How many jobs do they have? Imagine the jobs that would be available to American citizens and those legally in this country if the federal government enforced our existing immigration laws.

H.R. 1351 Gains Momentum on Capitol Hill

Newt Gingrich is the latest Republican front runner

2011-11-22T04:03:00.007-05:00

You can point a lot of fingers at people who have poisoned the political discourse in recent years but I think that Newt Gingrich has to be given the lions share of the credit. In the 1990's he rose to prominence by tearing down his political opponents. He tore down the Democratic Speaker of the House over a book deal while doing much the same thing. His advice at the time to fellow Republicans was to call Democrats corrupt, traitors, anti-family and other things. He ended up resigning from Congress because of his own ethics problems. But somehow that is forgotten now.

Gingrich was responsible for the Government shutdown of 1995/96 then the Republicans decided to impeach the President over a blow job. I won't even get into the thrice married Georgia Congressman's divorce from his high school teacher or his other pro-family stances.

So much for the past. Now he wants to dismantle the child labor laws.

Gingrich: Laws preventing child labor are 'truly stupid'

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/19/gingrich-laws-preventing-child-labor-are-truly-stupid/

CNN) - Newt Gingrich proposed a plan Friday that would allow poor children to clean their schools for money, saying such a setup would both allow students to earn income and endow them with a strong work ethic.

I turned down the free lunch when I was in school although I was eligible for it because I didn't want to put up with razzing. Imagine what stigma kids emptying trash cans and moping floors would have to endure? Children can be cruel and kids from poor families are easy targets.

I know the press likes that Newt throws out ideas even if they are not well thought out. Remember his idea for giving a laptop to every student.

He may have traction unlike the other not Romneys but I'm waiting for him to flame out so my favorite Republican candidate, Rick Santorum, can have his week in the spotlight.

Wilkes-Barre Area School District

2011-11-20T16:42:00.006-05:00

The last election has seen some turnover in the board. The winners in the recent election were Maryanne W. Toole, Dino L. Galella, John Quinn, James F. Susek and Louis Elmy.

I bullet voted voted for Kathy Grinaway and Sam Troy.

Toole was only incumbent on the ballot and she has been going against the grain teaming with Lynn Evans. I met Galella on election day but wasn't impressed. I remember Mr. Quinn from high school when he was a bit excitable in the classroom and on the basketball court and baseball field. My commenter's tell me that Elmy has thousand of relatives working at Vo Tech which remindes us of Barbara Youngblood.

Two years ago the district decided to put a hiring policy in place and appointed a sub commitee to draft it. Christine Katsock was put in charge of the effort but it has fizzled.

We get a big tax bill from the W-B Area School District every year that I am willing to pay because there is nothing more important than teaching our young people. Taxes are the price we pay for civilisation.

The latest dustup is Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton's son getting a job as a full time teacher .
Bad timing. I like Mayor Tom because he has done a darn good job bringing back Wilkes-Barre from financial chaos and reviving the downtown. Some people don't think that is good enough.

Redistricting of PA Congressional seats

2011-11-19T14:30:00.009-05:00

This is the latest look of what NEPA Congressional Districts might look like according to a story by Borys in the Scranton Times today. It looks a lot different than the one that was floated in the spring and will probably be adjusted again before the final Gerrymandering is done by the Harrisburg Republicans.

This configuration has some pluses and many minuses. I like that all of Luzerne County would be in the same district and Scranton would have a different Congressman than Wilkes-Barre.

The first problem is Scranton would be in the wrong district. Until the last chop up Scranton was the anchor of the 10th CD and was ably represented for many years by Republican Joe McDade who today would be considered a RINO but in the old parlance was called a Rockefeller Republican . In today's atmosphere a guy like McDade would face a primary challenge.

This map makes the 17th CD look like a snake slithering through 5 counties with Scranton being the rattle at the end. It takes most of Carbon and Monroe counties out of the 11th but keeps most of the 10th CD counties intact except for Lackawanna.

The thing that really is annoying is that many districts don't make sense geographically. The proposed 17th CD doesn't have an entire county in it's boundaries which will create confusion. The redistricing process should be removed from the legislature and given to a committee of some grand poobahs then voted on by our salons. A hand full of states have commissions that draw the lines but I won't hold my breath waiting for Pennsylvania to adopt a fair system.

See Redistricting in America

Shawn Kelly, a spokesman for Mr. Barletta, said the congressman "is not focused on redistricting."

Renita Fennick, a spokeswoman for Mr. Marino, said he had no comment on the map.

11th CD Democratic challenger Bill Vinsko told me:

"I am committed to serving the people of Northeast and Central Pennsylvania regardless of
the exact location of the 11th Congressional District boundaries. It's time to get things done for the
people. What I said when I announced remains true: I'm not running only as a Democrat or Republican, I am running as an American. Political map makers cannot control the people no matter how hard they try. You either get the job done or you don't. I'm going to get the job done."

Bill Vinsko has finally added some content to his website. Check it out

Bill Vinsko for Congress

You Tube weekend

2011-11-19T03:03:00.001-05:00

Guns N' Roses will be at the Arena on Sunday

We had October snow now it's November rain

Bill Vinsko responds to Barletta

2011-11-18T13:17:00.003-05:00

From the inbox:

The people of the 11th Congressional District need JOBS to help to balance their own budgets, while Congressman Barletta proves he is part of the know-‐nothing, do-‐nothing
Congress.

On Thursday, November 17, 2011, Congressman Lou Barletta (R-‐PA-‐11) issued a fundraising email to constituents of the 11th Congressional District of Pennsylvania which leads the great people of Northeast and Central Pennsylvania to believe that a The people of the 11th Congressional District need a congressman who is ready to lead and not to follow; someone who is truly an independent thinker, guided by principle and not party doctrine, but most of all, Northeast and Central Pennsylvania need a representative rooted in the law with a full-‐understanding of the mechanics of government and legislating, because that is how one achieves results for his constituents and not points with extremist pundits. Balanced Budget Amendment to the United States Constitution is a “necessary step” to control government spending. Mr. Barletta then says “President Obama has already made it known that he will veto the Balanced Budget Amendment if it passes in Congress.”

This statement is embarrassing to the people of the 11th Congressional District, and an example of a Congress which is not only doing nothing, but, apparently is equally unaware of the procedure for a Constitutional Amendment. I find such an inaccurate statement alarming from a member of Congress who swore an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. The President of the United States has no veto-‐power over any amendment to the Constitution let alone a balanced budget amendment. A proposed amendment must pass both houses of Congress with a
2/3 majority and it is immediately referred to the state legislatures where 3/4 of state houses must approve of the amendment to ratify.

Article 5 of the United States Constitution sets forth the exact procedure for a Constitutional Amendment. In 1798, the United States Supreme Court in Hollingsworth v. State of Virginia, 3 U.S. 378 (U.S. 1798), stated that the President does not have a role in the formal amendment process.

This is why the American people are upset. We have to stop using politics and scare tactics and start to get things done. This is also another example of the current Congress catering to the extremists, and an example of Mr. Barletta using the politics of fear to mislead the people of his district in order to be re-‐elected. 74% of the public may support the intent of balanced budgets and reducing the federal deficit, and I am one of them, but 100% of the people are fed-‐up with the partisan politics that have raised the level of dysfunction in Washington to unprecedented heights.

Ironically, even if this version of the Amendment was to pass, it would not help create one small business in the district, it would not create one job for a resident of the district, and it would not reduce one dollar of the federal deficit. For us in the 11th Congressional District, this version of the Balanced Budget Amendment would likely force critical cuts to Medicare, Social Security and crucial Veteran’s programs.

The people of the 11th Congressional District need a congressman who is ready to lead and not to follow; someone who is truly an independent thinker, guided by principle and not party doctrine, but most of all, Northeast and Central Pennsylvania need a representative rooted in the law with a full-‐understanding of the mechanics of government and legislating, because that is how one achieves results for his constituents and not points with extremist pundits.

Lou Barletta needs to read the Constitution

2011-11-18T03:02:00.004-05:00

Congressman Lou Barletta sent me this email yesterday

Dear Gort --
This week, Congress will vote on a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. A Balanced Budget Amendment would put an end to Washington’s out of control spending.

In fact, it’s a measure 74% of Americans agree with, yet Washington Democrats are labeling those of us who support a balanced budget as “extremists!”Extremists?!?

Hardly. 49 of the 50 states have balanced budget requirements.

Decades of reckless spending brought us to the mess we’re currently in. You sent me to Washington to fix it. A Balanced Budget Amendment will do just that.

The solution to this problem isn’t complicated. If you’re spending more money than you’re taking in, you need to spend less of it. Unfortunately, Washington’s career politicians just can’t seem to control themselves so a Constitutional amendment is a necessary step.

President Obama has already made it known that he will veto the Balanced Budget Amendment if it passes in Congress.
--Lou

Article V of the US Constitution says that an amendment must be passed by two thirds of the House and Senate then ratified by three fourths of the State Legislatures.

The President can not veto a Constitutional Amendment!

In addition to learning what is in the constitution he needs to learn something about history and economics. A law is not needed to balance the budget because there was a surplus as recently as 2000 under our last Democratic President until the Republicans decided tax cuts were more important than balancing the books. If such a requirement existed in the 1940's the United States would not have been able to fight WWII or before that deal with the great depression.

How do you even define a balanced budget? It's a very technical question. Who would decide if the budget is actually in balance if there is a dispute, the Supreme Court? It would take years to get a ruling. Will there be exceptions for war or recessions? Yes, the states have a requirement to have a balanced budget but they issue bonds for projects such as building roads and bridges that can't be paid for out of current taxes. If this actually passes would it eliminate T-Bills and Savings Bonds?

The Constitution is about rights and processes not specific policies. Prohibition was a policy that was added to the constitution that had disastrous results and was later repealed. A budget is a policy document that should be decided in the political arena of Congress and elections.

It's Rick Santorum's turn to be the flavor of the month

2011-11-17T03:02:00.007-05:00

The race for the Republican Presidential nomination continues to be a search for an alternative to Mitt Romney. It's been one flame out after another.

First it was Michelle Bachman winning the Iowa straw poll who's understanding of American history confirmed that our school systems are failing. Then Governor Rick Perry's inability to speak in complete sentences in the debates burst his bubble and shamed his English teachers. Nobody wants another Texas Governor that murders the English language. Next was pizza guy Herman Cain who is mired in sexual harassment charges and seems to think that his ignorance of foreign policy is a plus. Right now Newt Gingrich is topping some polls but was paid over $1 million by conservative boogie man Freddie Mac and is haunted by his past events like serving divorce papers to his 1st wife when she was in the hospital recovering from cancer and being forced to resign from being Speaker of the House because of ethics issues. Not to mention the Tiffany's thing.

So that leaves former PA Senator and Virginia resident Rick Santorum who is banking on a good showing in Iowa to keep his campaign alive until he drops out after South Carolina or Florida. He is only polling 3% in Iowa but polls in a caucus state don't always predict the outcome. Iowa Republicans are known for their religious conservatism and his hawkish foreign policy stances play well. Santorum has always been a consistent abortion opponent who wants to turn the clock back on gay rights and thinks starting a war with Iran is a good idea feeding off the end of times Israel can do no wrong fundamentalism.

His camp is actually touting an interview with Glen Beck of all people. Beck was kicked off FOX News for being even to nuts for them. He also said that Penn State shouldn't go to a Bowl game and Sarah Palin disagreed "It's not the players' fault that they have a perverted former assistant coach," she told Fox News host Greta Van Susteren. "I would like to see the players not suffer more than they have suffered."

Democrats have success in the Back Mountain

2011-11-16T02:54:00.003-05:00

The Back mountain region of Luzerne County has been a Republican stronghold for as long as I can remember but in this past election the Democrats had some notable successes.

Election 2011 proved to be an election of change in the 2nd District, with candidates making history and voters sending a message.

In Dallas Township, the heart of the natural gas debate, Democrat Liz Martin was elected Supervisor, beating a Republican incumbent in a Republican town that held that position since Dwight Eisenhower was president, and the first woman to hold the post. A critic of the gas industry, Liz vowed to preserve our environment, protect the integrity of our drinking water, and stop the industrial exploitation of our land at the expense of public safety. In short, the people of Dallas won on election night, and the gas companies lost.

At Harvey's Lake, Democrats took a majority of the seats up for election for borough Council, with Michell'e Boice, Ed Kelly, and Thomas Kehler leading the charge. Natural gas played a significant role in this race, as well; The voters sent a message to the GOP-controlled Council that passed a weak, watered-down ordinance in October -- while having rejected a stronger, more substantive ordinance in March -- by electing Boice, Kelly, and Kehler, signaling that they want their water protected and free from contamination.

Both races were the proverbial ball game in the 2nd District, and the results go to show that solid, progressive candidates with the interests of the middle class and working families at heart will always triumph over regressive, corporate-backed politcs.

Finally, the biggest 2nd District winner of election night was Harvey's Lake's own Jennifer Rogers, receiving the highest number of votes for Judge in Luzerne County.

Congratulations to all Democratic winners and candidates. The 2nd District is quickly turning a beautiful shade of blue. In 2011, it was Dallas and Harvey's Lake, and in 2012, it's going to be Harrisburg and Washington, D.C.!

Spread the news: The sun is comin' up in the Back Mountain, again!

Casey Evans
2nd District Democratic Chairman
Dallas

From the Luzerne County Bureau of Elections

Supervisor DALLAS TWP

Liz Martin (DEM) . . . . . . . . 893
Glenn M. Howell (REP) . . . . . . 849

Council HARVEYS LAKE

Michelle T. Boice (DEM). . . . . .417
Amy Williams (REP) . . . . . . . 382
Ed Kelly (DEM). . . . . . . . . 379
Thomas Kehler (DEM) . . . . . . . 359
Jamie L. Coleman (DEM) . . . . . 332
Richard K. Haas (REP) . . . . . . 328
William Monk (REP) . . . . . . . 293
Richard Svec (REP) . . . . . . . 283

Luzerne County government

2011-11-15T03:20:00.005-05:00

In the recent election the Luzerne County GOP did well. Dick Hughes will now be a judge and Stefanie Salavantis kept hammering the kids for cash scandal topping Jackie Mo in the District Attorney race showing what a ton of money and a savvy media campaign can do.

The race for the new County Council was the most unpredictable yielding a somewhat surprising result with only 6 Democrats winning seats in a county with a big Dem registration edge. There will be 4 Republicans and an Independent rounding out the newfangled 11 member body. Kingston Mayor and study commission chairman Jim Haggerty told me before he wrote the new charter that he wanted to try to minimize the influence of campaign contributions For the most part each candidate ran a solo effort with a few alliances that at times crossed party lines but didn't work out. My good friend David Yonki said that name recognition would be a key in this race because of the crowded field predicting that Urban the Elder and Urban the Younger would top the poll. It was good to see that the CV quoted a real political expert in addition the Captains Obvious college professors. I would add that the Independent Rick Williams TV spots raised his name recognition contributing to his win. I expect (hope) that party loyalty will be put on the back burner and our new Councilors will do what is best for us all. It will be interesting to see what alliances and deals that will be made in the coming months and years.

Now the hard part.

Members get applicant details

The first job of the new council is to hire an unelected county manager but this story tells us that they can't even agree on the ground rules on applications.

In other news the present Commissioners have decided to spend $1 million to tear down the Hotel Sterling after pissing away $6 million trying to save it. The place was wreck even before the recent flooding.

Another boondogle on the horizon is the Market Street Square property that the county bought from Thom Greco for $5.8 million in 2006. They voted to sink another $2 million into the place to clean it up that will let the county put a senior center and the tourism bureau office in the station. $7 million plus for a senior center and tourist office for this place ? Another property that should be bulldozed and start from scratch. I worked at the Station years ago and it was an eyesore and hazard even then. There was some entertainment value when Greco and the owners of the Woodlands owners the Cornfelds got into a pissing contest that resulted in some expensive cars getting towed all over town.

Greco and Greg Skrepenack should enjoy the show on TV.

Sports Weekend

2011-11-13T13:44:00.004-05:00

A great scene before the kickoff of the Penn State-Nebraska game. Both teams took a knee at midfield and said a prayer for the victims of Jerry Sandusky. The reporting on the teevee is that it was the idea of the Nebraska players.

Nebraska is one of the class acts of college football as PSU has always been. When I was stationed in Omaha, Nebraska in 1979 a pal of mine scored 2 tickets to see the Lions play the Conrnhuskers in Lincoln. Dressed in my Penn State gear we headed into Memorial stadium not knowing what to expect as I had been treated rudely at other sporting events for wearing the "wrong" colors. A man and a woman decked out in Go Big Red attire yelled at us "hey Penn State fans" and I thought "here we go." I shied away not wanting to get into it but they came up to us, offered a handshake and said welcome to Lincoln. After chatting for bit about where we from we told them we were stationed at Offutt AFB then things got really good. They called over a couple of students who took us to our seats and the people sitting around us were great. We didn't pay for a soda or a hot dog that day. The price we paid was some good natured ribbing as Nebraska won big 42-17.

Well the Lions came up short yesterday as the defense played great again but the offense came up short missing a 1st quarter FG that came back to haunt them. Final Nebraska 17 PSU 14. All is not lost because if the Lions can win the final 2 games they will be in the Big 10 Championship game. Next week's game is against a Ohio State team that lost to Purdue but they finish against the Wisconsin scoring machine.

In Baseball news the Phillies signed Jim Thome to a 1 year deal giving them a home run threat off the bench. He hasn't played the field in a few years but gives them an option at 1B waiting for Ryan Howard to recover from surgery. I like it. They also signed Jonathon Papelbon to a 4 year $50 million deal to be the closer after not being able to agree to terms with Ryan Madson that has some fans howling. I always thought that Madson would be the closer of the future as he proved his worth this year. The Phillies don't have a good history dealing with his agent Scott Boras remember the JD Drew thing.

The Eagles blow another 4th quater lead and the Stillers win.

Lou Barletta's spending spree

2011-11-11T02:11:00.005-05:00

I have received a series of press releases from Congressman Lou Barletta recently that call for more spending by the federal government that will benefit Northeastern Pennsylvania and the country. No mention of deficits or a way to pay for it (taxes).

Rep. Barletta votes to increase veterans' benefits

“Our veterans deserve the very best care and compensation we can provide, and this legislation will make sure that our veterans with service-connected disabilities receive a much-needed and well-deserved cost-of-living adjustment this year,” Rep Barletta said.

Can't argue with that but it will increase the deficit.

Rep. Barletta calls for disaster relief funding for farmers

“Our nation's farmers have experienced a rise in natural disasters this year, including tornadoes, droughts, floods, hurricanes, tropical storms earthquakes, and most recently, Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. While farmers are normally able to recover from crop losses, the intensity and volume of this year's natural disasters has threatened their very livelihoods."

Can't argue with that but it will increase the deficit.

Rep. Barletta supports increased funding for LIHEAP

“Thousands of people in Northeastern Pennsylvania rely on LIHEAP to stay warm during the winter months. With the lagging economy and the high cost of energy, I’m very concerned that the most needy in our communities have access to the valuable benefits LIHEAP provides,” Rep. Barletta said. “We’re barely into November, and we’ve already had unseasonably cold temperatures and a heavy snowfall. I worry about how the most vulnerable members of my district will be able to stay warm in what seems like will be a long, cold season. Keeping or increasing LIHEAP funding might save lives, and it’s the right thing to do.”

Barletta is proposing to spend more money on this program than than the Obama Administration budgeted. Can't argue with that but it will increase the deficit.

Barletta bill will lower federal disaster relief loan rates to 1 percent for homeowners and business owners

"When disaster strikes anywhere in the world, the United States is the first country to help rebuild. But now that a disaster occurred here in our own backyard, we must start rebuilding here. Let’s help Americans first. We must restore American lives, save American businesses, and protect American jobs.”

Shades of Dan Flood when he got 1% SBA loans after the Agnes flood. Good for him.

Rep. Barletta announces federal buyouts for Plymouth Township

“These buyouts are good news for Plymouth Township residents who have been seeking this news for a very long time. I’m pleased and proud to tell these families that they will no longer have to suffer through repeated flooding and the process of rebuilding their lives,” Rep. Barletta said. “I hope these families will be able to live without worrying about flooding ever again, and I wish them well.”

This program has been around for some time but Congress has not fully funded it and it will increase the deficit.

Is Barletta trying to emulate long time 10th CD Congressman Joe McDade by voting for every tax cut but vote for every spending program that brings home the pork?

Joe Pa out

2011-11-10T03:44:00.003-05:00

BREAKING: Joe Paterno out at Penn State

Many people have called for Joe Paterno to step down over the last few years but nobody thought it would end like this. If anything the people I know predicted that the only way you would get him off the football field would be on a stretcher. I'm not going to join the lynch mob calling for his head as I'm not sure exactly what Mike McQueary told him. The Board of Trustees caved into the media frenzy without doing a proper investigation.

Bloggers have drawn parallels to the Catholic Church scandal.

Bless Them Father For They Have Sinned.

The Least Of Our Brethren

I can't put my finger on it but I remember hearing stories about Jerry Sandusky's bad behavior a few years ago.

Big upset

2011-11-08T22:51:00.002-05:00

Stefanie Salavantis defeats Jackie Musto Carroll for Luzerne County District Attorney.

Stefanie J. Salavantis (REP) . . . . 31,776
Jackie Musto Carroll (DEM). . . . . 30,811

Wow!