Rick Santorum wins Pennsylvania Republican straw poll for President

Capitol Ideas is reporting from the Pennsylvania Republican State Committee meeting where all the buzz is about the plan to blow up the way the state will allocate it's Electoral College votes in the Presidential election and the brewing civil war that has pitted the legislature against the state party leadership worried about down ballot races and the Republican US House members who are worried about getting reelected. I would usually expect cooler heads to prevail who would keep the winner take all system but in this crazy atmosphere anything can happen.

pawatercooler.com has the results of the straw poll that for some reason doesn't attract as much attention as the one in Iowa.

In the interest of fair and balanced coverage that Fox News has pioneered I decided to put up the unofficial Gort42 campaign photos of some of the candidates. Please send pics of the candidates if you have better ones.

Former PA Senator and long time Virginia resident Rick Santorum topped the poll with 138 votes out of 388 tallied. The horse race coverage people like percentages so that is 35.5%


Mitt Romney came in 2nd with 98 or 25.5%. The dog that he strapped to the top of his car for a 12 hour ride didn't have a vote.

Flavor of the month Texas Governor Rick Perry got 71 votes of the faithful (18.3%). If he signs a few more death warrants he may increase that percentage.




Ron Paul continues to be the Rodney Dangerfield of this race, no respect at all. 21 votes



Jon Huntsman may be the most qualified guy in the race after being Governor of Utah and Ambassador to China. He even speaks a foreign language that probably disqualifies him with the English Only Crowd. In today's Republican Party that is a handicap. Look for him 2016. Tom Ridge endorsed him. 18 votes.

Herman Cain. 16 votes.

Newt Gingrich is someone I sometimes liked when he was talking ideas instead of his scorched earth policy of partisan warfare. 14 votes.

Last in the poll was Michelle Bachman.

ALex said: Only 12 for Michelle Bachmann? Maybe that anti-vaccination insanity had a stronger effect that I thought.

Whoever wins the Republican nomination has to run against this guy. 0 votes.

Lou Barletta demanding aid for flood victims

Maybe Lou has changed his mind about offsetting disaster relief with cuts to the budget in other areas. I got 2 press releases from Barletta suggesting that he may break from the House GOP leadership and will be the Congressman that we need in a time like this.

Rep. Barletta demands full funding of Disaster Relief Fund

HAZLETON – U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, PA-11, today sent a letter to Republican leaders in the House demanding that the Disaster Relief Fund be fully funded.

Rep. Barletta sent the letter early Wednesday afternoon to House Speaker John Boehner, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers.

"I have been crisscrossing the 11th District since Thursday night. I have spoken with thousands of my neighbors who need help recovering from this epic disaster. I've met with elected officials whose municipal budgets cannot pay for the damage they suffered or the recovery effort. That's why I'm calling on my colleagues in the House to make sure the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania get the assistance they need and deserve," Rep. Barletta said.

Part of the letter he wrote to Speaker John Boehner:


In order to help those, whose lives were torn apart by these unprecedented storms, I ask that you fully fund the Disaster Relief Fund and provide additional emergency resources, as needed. These funds are desperately needed to help those in Northeastern Pennsylvania and others who were victimized by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. Together, we need to stand by those were affected and help them as they start to rebuild their homes and lives.

He also wants the Small Business Administration to give our local businesses the same interest rate break that was afforded to Hurricane Katrina victims.


Rep. Barletta working to lower high SBA disaster loan interest rate


“This is a natural disaster. It should not be a money-making operation for the federal government.”

The blogroll is restored, mostly

More navel gazing.

I was able to return my blog buddies to the side bar and added a few sites that I like with the exception of NEPartisan. For some reason everytime I open it in Internet Explorer 7 it crashes my computer. It opens in Safari without any hiccups but can't load it to the blogroll on Firefox. I need some help computer geeks.

In other blogger news our good friend Joe Valenti of Pittston Politics got clobbered in the flood but he and his family will come back better than ever.

NEPA Blogs has been a hot site for the last few months. For the longest time me and DB Echo did all the hunting and linking but then we brought Michelle on board and her energy and internet savvy has made it the place to go for news and links from the local blogosphere. Believe it or not I was only interested in linking to political sights then Michelle dug up blogs about all sorts of subjects and NEPA Blogs has become something of a media sensation.

Now my pals have a gig on the new show on Channel 28

NEPA Blogs will be presenting a "Blog of the Week" on the WBRE's PA Live! every Tuesday. PA Live! airs weekday afternoons on WBRE from 4:00 to 5:00.

And tonight you can catch some of our local scribes at
NEPA Blogger's Roundtable

Biden coming to town

I got a press release from the White House that said Vice President Joe Biden will be in the area to inspect the flood damage on Friday but didn't give any details. Congressman Lou Barletta's office doesn't know where he will be either.

I think that the President and VP should just stay away from disaster areas. Let the people who know what they are doing do there jobs. They just get in the way.

Former Congressman Paul Kanjorski gives a full throttled defense of the federal government in the the CV:

Lu Lac has it

Blogfest-2011 fall edition

It was so much fun the last 3 times we are going to do it again.

The next blogger meetup will be Friday September 23rd at Rooney's Irish Pub 67 S. Main St. Pittston, PA 18704 starting at 6PM.

Our political bloggers from Luzerne and Lackawanna counties will be there along with our readers, commenter's and people who are just interested in local politics. We should also have many candidates and their supporters.

You don't have to blog about about politics to attend as we welcome everyone who blogs. If you're listed on NEPA Blogs this is the place to be.

The promotion of this event is a bit behind schedule because of the flooding that has impacted just about everybody involved but there should be a good turnout. I'll do my best to get the word out and expect my blog buddies to do the same.

There are 3 rules to the event.

1. No Speeches

2. You must wear clothes even it is warm.

3. Agree to disagree but don't be disagreeable.

There is no charge for admission.

Somehow I just deleted my blogroll

I guess I know what I'm doing the rest of the night. Anybody that wants a link let me know. I have to rebuild the thing from memory so I may miss someone.

Update: Still rebuilding, hope to have it done by the weekend. Also need to spend some time blogging.

Flood advice from Phyllis

My 3rd favorite state rep sent me this email:

Flood victims should document property damage



KINGSTON, Sept. 12 -- State Rep. Phyllis Mundy is encouraging residents to document flood damage to their property with photographs and detailed information to help with assessments that could lead to federal assistance.

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency is asking individuals and businesses to report damages and losses to municipal officials. Each municipality will collect damage reports from residents and report them to counties for submission to PEMA. PEMA compiles the totals and forwards them to Federal Emergency Management Agency to be considered as part of the state’s request for a federal disaster declaration.

"In addition, we expect local, county, state and federal teams to conduct damage assessments as soon as it is safe to do so," said Mundy, D-Luzerne. "They will need that information if there is a federal disaster declaration that includes Individual Assistance."

Individual Assistance is made up of a number of federal programs designed to help citizens get back on their feet. It can include funds to repair damages, replace major appliances or pay for temporary housing. There is no state disaster assistance program.

If there is a federal disaster declaration that includes Individual Assistance, FEMA and PEMA will release information with instructions on how to apply. Citizens will be able to apply over the phone or Internet.

FEMA will also staff disaster recovery centers in the counties included in the Individual Assistance declaration. The recovery centers would offer information on every available federal resource to recover from the flooding.

Meanwhile, residents can begin the repair and recovery process, but they should keep copies of any receipts from repairs.

In addition, Mundy said it is expected that assessment teams will examine damages for federal Public Assistance, which applies primarily to infrastructure damages for local, county and state governments and certain nonprofits.



I also got an email from her campaign in July: If you want discuss this or any other issue with her
A breakfast for 120th Legislative District State Representative Phyllis Mundy will be held on September 24 from 9am-11am at Genetti's Conference Center. This years event will feature guest speaker, former DEP Secretary John Hanger. For tickets email phyllis.mundy2012@gmail.com

Wyoming Valley Flood 2011-paying for it

Every government agency in the Wyoming Valley and throughout northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond responded to this emergency as we expected them to. The fire departments, police, DPW workers and countless other agencies did their jobs as they were trained to do and improvised in unexpected situations that saved lives and property. Every level of government (state, county, municipal) spent money that was not budgeted because you really can't see this sort of thing coming.

See LuLac
THAT DAMN GOVERNMENT!

So the state, county and local government agencies spent more money than they have on emergency response and now we are looking at the clean up effort that includes areas that have never been flooded before so people don't have flood insurance. Will the Federal Government kick in to help like in the past or tell people that they are just on their own?

A few days ago I asked Lou Barletta's press guy Shawn Kelly if he was still committed to Eric Cantor's approach of playing budget games ahead of relief for people who are suffering, his response:


“Rep. Barletta is committed to bringing the full force of the federal government’s response to the areas affected by this historic flooding. Rep. Barletta believes there are any number of unnecessary and duplicative programs across the vast federal bureaucracy that can be cut or eliminated to provide the response and recovery needed in the 11th District. He’s already spoken with other members of the House about finding ways to secure that funding as quickly as possible.”

He added:


Sorry for the late response. We were touring the district. I wasn't alive for Agnes, but I spent time working at a few newspapers and covered some pretty bad stuff. What I've seen since Thursday is a whole new level of destruction and loss. It's going to be a long road back for many, many people. Now that the waters are receding, Lou's office is fully mobilizing and will be very accessible to the people affected by this epic event. You'll see details of that soon.
I hope you and your family are safe.

Barletta's reponse

As Mrs. G said earlier " I'd rather have Kanjo."



HAZLETON – Rep. Lou Barletta, PA-11, announced the establishment of several Constituent Recovery Centers – places where his staff members will be to help people who have questions with the federal disaster assistance procedures.

Beginning Monday morning at 10:15 a.m., members of Rep. Barletta’s staff will be on hand to talk with residents, business owners, and elected officials to answer questions about the federal response to the historic flooding of the Susquehanna River.

Rep. Barletta’s Constituent Recovery Centers will be at:

•Duryea Borough Building, 315 Main Street, Duryea
•West Pittston Police Department/Borough Building, 555 Exeter Avenue, West Pittston
•Bloomsburg Office of State Rep. David Millard, 605 West Main Street, Bloomsburg
•Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry office, 2 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre (for business inquiries)
Future hours of the Constituent Recovery Centers will be announced.

Rep. Barletta reported that teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are in the area and have begun working on damage assessments.

“I strongly encourage all residents who have been affected by this huge disaster to document their losses. Take photographs. Make lists. Report your damage. Then work with your local officials and get those reports to them. Data is being collected at the county level, and that data will then be submitted to the state and federal governments. The more accurate the assessment, the quicker our residents, business owners, and municipalities can get the federal aid they deserve,” Rep. Barletta said.

“The scale of this disaster is unprecedented, and it can be frustrating and confusing. Rest assured that my office is going to be here to help you, every step of the way. We’re going to work with you. We will be here for you. We’re not going to leave you on your own,” Rep. Barletta added. “I will do everything I can and I will fight to make sure the people receive the help they clearly deserve.”

Wyoming Valley Flood 2011-the levee system held, now the cleanup

The Susquehanna River crested above the 1972 Agnes flood level but Wilkes-Barre and the west side of Wyoming Valley didn't get wiped out because Congressman Paul Kanjorski was able to convince President Clinton and the Army Corps of Engineers that the dikes should be able to withstand another flood of that magnitude. I know that there is lot of talk about how the levees funneled water into other areas that are not protected by the system but there are trade offs in every project as Another Monkey points out:


The Susquehanna nearly overtopped these levees this week. Nearly, but it didn't. As of this writing, Wilkes-Barre and Kingston and Forty Fort have been spared the devastation they experienced in 1972. The levees held, bottling up all that water.

Creating a bottleneck to protect one area causes problems elsewhere. West Pittston, just upriver from Wilkes-Barre, has sustained damage in excess of what it experienced in 1972. Jenkins Township, Shickshinny, and other communities not protected by levees have experienced massive devastation. Even if areas destroyed in 1972 fared better now thanks to levees, the increased destruction elsewhere will again result in a multi-billion dollar repair bill.

Kanjo in the TL is reflects on his legacy:


“We probably dodged a bullet that probably would have cost the Wyoming Valley probably five, six billion dollars,” Kanjorski said. “...If those levees hold, there isn't one person in the Wyoming Valley who shouldn't just shout that the federal government did something good; that they built one hell of a levee system. We've got good, clear evidence that federal government, sometimes, does something right....“It was a very long, drawn-out process that took 10 years,” Kanjorski said. “It wasnt until 1996 that I was able to get President Clinton down here to convince him that we needed it... It took more than 10 years after that to complete it, and every year it took millions of dollars in appropriations. I had to get those funds earmarked every year to get those funds.“To protect some of those homes over in Plymouth Township, and I have sympathy for those people, but it would cost millions of dollars to protect one home in Plymouth, and we just cant afford to do that,” Kanjorski said.
“Its not a perfect system,” he continued, “but it's far more sophisticated today in terms of protection. You have to remember when we got hit with Agnes, there was no Federal Emergency Management Agency. That was something I was very active in creating.”

Others agree:


Mayor, state rep thankful for levees



"I hope that people take a moment tonight and say a prayer and thank the Lord that that dike held," State Rep Eddie Day Pashinski said. "Those of you that experienced 1972 know what kind of devastation we experienced in Wilkes-Barre and throughout the entire valley. Ladies and gentlemen, we dodged a major bullet."
But that never happened, thanks in part to former U.S. Rep. Paul E. Kanjorski's work to raise the levee system in the Wyoming Valley, Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton said.

"Without his hard work in Washington over the years, this valley would have been ruined."


If you want to help out Michelle put up a great post over at NEPA Blogs:


This has so much good information I'm going to repost it. I'm sure she won't mind. To click on the links go over to NEPA Blogs.


Giving Help
Many of us in the area have been fortunate enough to not be affected by the September floods, but others did not fair so well. The whole basis of NEPA Blogs is to talk about blogging and people from the area, but we would not be doing the community a service if we didn't help out in this time of extreme need.

Here are ways that you can help:

Entercom Communications is holding a cleaning supply drive for the victims of the flooding. You can drop off supplies at either the Wilkes-Barre Twp. Wal-Mart or the one in Taylor. Help them fill the trailer. More details here: http://pahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=199416



The American Red Cross's Facebook Page states that "Over 4,000 people spent last night in Red Cross shelters in NY & PA." You can donate to the Red Cross's efforts by texting REDCROSS to 90999. I believe the 10 dollar donation will be tacked on to your monthly cell phone bill.

The Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce has setup a recovery website where you can give help/get help or find information about the recovery efforts. Wilkes-Barre City has a similar website setup here.

The HelpLine of NEPA is always a valuable resource for assistance for crisis situations. They are on Twitter and Facebook and also have a website: http://www.helpline-nepa.info


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From Wyoming Valley Flood 2011 Facebook Page:

The Cross Valley Federal Credit Union, starting on Monday, all of our branch locations will be accepting donations of cleaning supplies for the American Red Cross. We will also have donation canisters out for those wishing to make a monetary donation to Red Cross. Any support is greatly appreciated! We have locations in Wilkes Barre, Dallas, Forty Fort, Mt Top and Hazleton. For a specific listing of all of our locations you can also visit www.crossvalleyfcu.org. It doesn't matter where we donate - as long as we do. :0) This Valley is capable of doing amazing things!!! Our hearts go out to all those affected.

The West Pittston Public Library is in need of volunteers to assist with their clean-up effort. From what I understand, they started working on the efforts again today (9/11) at 10am. You can offer your services via their Facebook Page: West Pittston Library.

The Hunlock Creek Fire Hall is now a drop off site for cleaning supplies for all of those affected by flooding. If you want to donate, please drop off at the hall....(editors note: however, I do not have specific dates or times that they will be open.) They are specifically requesting the following items: disinfectants (clorox, lysol, etc.), mops, brooms, gloves, buckets, etc.

Excelsior Hose Company in Duryea is collecting cleaning supplies, clothing and anything else you can think of donating to the flood victims of lower Duryea. THere are some who have lost everything unexpectedly, since the forecast was not for the Lackawanna River to flood. (Editor's note: I do not have any specific dates or times for these collections)

Duryea Update: Anyone who has spare cleaning supplies, clothing, basically anything that can be of assistance to flood victims who reside in the lower section of Duryea and is willing to donate them, please bring the items to the VFW on Stephenson Street in Duryea. They are also accepting monetary donations. They will be on site at this location until 11pm.

TradeMark Realty Group will be collecting any donations like cleaning products, clothing etc. or just anything you could spare and give it to Red-cross or local churches for distribution.
 Our office will be open everyday 9am -5pm and will be available for chat through our website www.TradeMarkRealtyGroup.com if you have questions.

Servpro of Hanover Township has crews out in full force helping people get their lives, homes and businesses back to normal. If you are in need of water damage cleanup and restoration services, our office available 24/7 at (570)-822-4700. Via Their Facebook Page.

West Side All Starz will be a drop off area for donated clothing, blankets, pillows, non perishable foods, bottles of water and cleaning supplies for those who have lost their homes and belongings in the flood. Items can be dropped off starting today 11am-10pm at 545 Charles Street, Luzerne PA 18709. If you are in need of items please email Tammy at tammytbwss@aol.com.

Cub Scout Pack 100 and Plains Soccer are asking for your donations to help our neighbors who have been affected by the recent flooding. DONATIONS OF non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, bleach, mops, paper products, toiletries, towels, linens and clothing of all sizes. DROP OFF at SCOUT HALL, 13 Stocker St, on Sunday from 5-8 PM, Monday from 6-8PM, and Tues from 6-7PM.

The PA Department of Health will be at the PSTI Headquarters building Sunday at 3pm with their mobile unit giving tetanus shots to emergency responders, who have not a shot in 10 years. Please note: This is ONLY FOR FIRST RESPONDERS.

MedExpress in Edwardsville has Tetanus shots available. Open from 9am to 9pm daily.

West Pittston Fire Department on Spring Street has some supplies available to its residents affected by the flood. They state they have water, gloves, self-heating meals, hand sanitizer & water available.


Attention Wyoming County residents! This information is for you --

Interfaith Friends has a list of available furniture and larger items available for free to those affected by the floods. If you need furniture, baby items, clothes or anything Interfaith Friends has, you may stop by during business hours. ALL items are given at NO CHARGE to anyone affected by the flood. Their contact # 570-836-2428.

The Cub Scout Pack 518 of Tunkhannock are collecting donations to give to flood victims. So far they have clothing, toys, games, paper products, personal care items and backpacks. However, I'm not sure of how to get in touch with them.

P & G has a diaper booth setup in the Tunkhannock Wal-Mart parking lot. They will be there Saturday (9/10) from 6pm to 9pm. They will then be set up Sunday (9/11) through Friday (9/16) from 7am to 7pm.

All information for Wyoming County was found via the American Red Cross of Wyoming County's Facebook page.

Lackawanna County --

Several Red Cross blood drives have been scheduled. There is one today (9/11) at the American Legion Raymond Henry Post 327, 101 Willow Ave, Olyphant from 10am to 3pm. Monday (9/12) at CMC, Mulberry Street, Scranton from 12pm to 4pm. More blood drive information including additional dates and locations can be obtained by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS

Columbia County --

(All information obtained via the Y 106.5 Facebook page)

Free Childcare for residents who were affected by the recent floods in our area and to those who are helping with the clean up efforts. Childcare service provided by Chrissy Van Hoover and Jennifer Devine Arbogast and other childcare providers and volunteers at Wesley United Methodist Church in Selinsgrove from 11:30-5pm Sunday Sept 11th.

Y 106.5 FM is taking American Red Cross Donations now and throughout the weekend at their Sunbury Motors Studios in the Susquehanna Valley Mall. Donate now for your friends, neighbors and community. Their webpage is http://www.y106.fm

Century 21 Mertz and Assoc; 299 Mill Street Danville (next to BJ Ribs) is organizing a collection of items for disbursement to local shelters, the Red Cross and Salvation Army. They are specifically looking for donations of cleaning supplies, canned food, adult & children's clothing as well as monetary donations.

Bloomsburg Fair Association is requesting volunteers. They are in need of volunteers to help with the clean up efforts at the fairgrounds. Flood waters hit the fairgrounds at an all time high. With the fair starting at the end of the month, they don't have much time to recover. The fair is scheduled to being on September 24, 2011. Currently they have no phone service, so please no phone calls. Basically, if you can help, just show up. The fairgrounds are located at 620 West Third Street; Bloomsburg, PA 17815.



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Towing Services: Also, LAG will conduct free tows for any vehicles trapped in flooded water or need to be taken to higher ground from the flood areas in coordination with the city. Contact 570-208-4152 to request service. Source, WBRE.

Photography Services: Top of the Mountain Photography by Bridget Banik is offering to take flood damage pictures free of charge to anyone who may have lost their camera/electronics in the flood. You can contact her via her Facebook page or call 570-417-6330. Also, according to the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce's twitter account, Patrick Gensel, freelance photographer and NEPA Blogger is willing to help as well, please contact him through his website at http://patrickgensel.com.

Pet/Animal Information: Please contact the SPCA of Luzerne County if your has been lost. In Luzerne County, stray animals are taken to the facility when they are found within county boundaries. Contact them at 570-825-4111 and they will take a "lost" report and cross match it with any reports they get of found animals or with animals that have been brought in as strays. More information can be found on their website: http://www.spcaluzernecounty.org

Update ~ There is now a Facebook page for the lost and found pets of the Sept 2011 flood. Click here to view it.

Road Closure Information: Available via 511PA which is updated via PENNDOT.

Health Care Facilities:

Click here to read an updated statement on Wyoming Valley Health Care System facility openings/closures.
Click here to read and updated statement on Geisinger Wyoming Valley's openings/closures.

This is just the beginning of the list, I've read about several dozen smaller communities, churches and businesses taking up collections for the victims. If you know of any, please feel free to post in the comments, or hit us up on Facebook to let us know. I would like to get as much information in this post as possible for the victims and will continue to update as more information becomes available.




Oh and by the way, Harold & I were made administrators of the Wyoming Valley Flood 2011 Facebook page which has grown to 6,547 likes as of this post. It has served as a information portal for questions about evacuations, road closures, and donation collection points, etc., etc., etc. Please feel free to follow it if you are in need of any of that information. We would like to thank Karla Porter for her efforts in creating this page. It has helped several people get the information that they needed in this crisis.

Edited to say: If you are questioning any of the information you are hearing online or otherwise, it is recommended to contact the Luzerne County Rumor control hotline at 800-821-3716.

Wyoming Valley Flood 2011-Barletta and Obama respond

From the inbox:

Rep. Barletta committed to bring full force of federal government to flood cleanup

HAZLETON – U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, PA-11, released the following statement:

“Today was an unforgettable day for me. I spent the day touring Luzerne and Columbia counties, and I saw firsthand the devastation and destruction caused by historic flooding. I want the people most affected by this natural disaster to rest assured that I am fully committed to bringing the full force of the federal government to the 11th Congressional District so the people, businesses, and municipalities here can recover – and recover quickly – from this epic event.

“I have instructed my staff to work closely with local, county, and state officials to provide the most responsive service to my constituents who have been so dramatically affected. Flood victims can call my office toll-free at (855) 241-5144, and my staff will return their calls as quickly as possible.

“This historic flood shattered records and lives. Some people lost all that they have. Some lost their lives. From Duryea to Pittston to West Pittston, to Jenkins Township to Wilkes-Barre to Plymouth, to Shickshinny to Espy to Bloomsburg, and to other places along creeks, streams, and ponds, I saw the effects of record flooding and I heard the stories my neighbors had to tell. But I also heard about friends helping friends, and strangers helping strangers. I saw emergency responders at their finest. I saw volunteers give of their time to help others. I saw the very best of humanity in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

“There is much work to be done to clean up from this unprecedented disaster, but I know the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania will be up to the challenge.”


President Obama Signs Pennsylvania Emergency Declaration



The President today declared an emergency exists in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and ordered federal aid to supplement commonwealth and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from the Remnants of Tropical Storm Lee beginning on September 3, 2011, and continuing.



The President's action authorizes the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the counties of Adams, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Bradford, Bucks, Cambria, Carbon, Centre, Chester, Clinton, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Mifflin, Monroe, Montgomery, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Perry, Philadelphia, Schuylkill, Snyder, Somerset, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wyoming, and York.



Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent federal funding.

Wyoming Valley Flood 2011-update

I haven't gone wandering around today to see the devastation heeding the advice of those in charge. If you're curious there are plenty of pics online. Earlier today Gov. Tom Corbett chastised the media for encouraging people to send in their flood pictures because they are still people in the evacuation areas. Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton had a press conference this afternoon and announced that 4 jerks/scumbags/criminals had been arrested for looting. He also announced that anybody in the evacuation zone after the 9PM curfew will be arrested.

So far the levee's are holding with some seepage in Forty Fort and the gates in Wilkes-Barre but the Susquehanna River is still so high you can't be too careful. There is a lot of force behind all that water. There are worries that various bridges may get wiped out with a particular concern about the Pierce Street bridge that was destroyed in 1972.

On the home front we just pumped out my mother's basement because the water took out her water heater and was threatening the furnace. That didn't stop her from turning it on this morning, oy vey.

Wyoming Valley Flood 2011

Above it is a picture of Gardner's Creek in Plains. Most of us call it Mill Creek.

I'm relieved to report that my little place on this earth known as the Hudson section of Plains Twp has not been wiped out, yet. I did a quick tour earlier today and posted a few pics here. I drove down River Street on the other side of town earlier encountering some water on the road but it was passable. I'm not about to go sightseeing along the Susquehanna because a very wise told me in 1972 that if your not here to help you're just in the way then handed me a sandbag.

The River is predicted to crest just below the 41 feet that the levy system will hold but my worry is that all that water weighs a lot and is moving fast. In the 1972 Agnes flood the Susquehanna River topped the 35 foot dikes by 6 feet but much of the devastation was caused by the dikes failing in Forty Fort and along Old River Road in Wilkes-Barre. I don't think that punching a bunch of holes in the dikes was a good idea to create a riverfront park after all that money was spent to build them. An earthen dam is much better protection than a metal wall that took it's place.

A word to 2 of my blog buddies. Mark in 1972 the water made it to the old ACME Market on Pennsylvania Avenue just past Beaumont St. That is about 1/2 a block away from you. David it was up to North St. just down the street. Take care my friends.

I will update in a few hours and will not make any political points until the crises abates.

Below is a pic of the Q at the flooded ballfield behind the Polish Club in Hudson. He is only one enjoying this.

Phillies sweep the Braves

We are not going to see a repeat of 1964. A big worry of mine.

The Phils just swept the 2nd place Atlanta Braves to improve to a major league best 91 wins vs 48 loses. I don't remember a Phillies team this good although it won't necessarly translate into the postseason. So now what do you do? They haven't called up any minor league players so I guess Charlie will keep the pedal to the medal and try to blow out every team on the rest of the schedule.

World Series or Bust.

GOP debate tonight

Watching the talking heads show today the big question seems to be will Texas Governor Rick Perry be able to to speak in complete sentences if he bothers to show up at all. If he skips it I can't blame him because Texas has a wildfire outbreak which is more important than a talkfest in California.

Perry's budget cuts didn't cause this catosrophe but it didn't help responding to it and want's federal aid.


Rick Perry slams feds for slow fire aid, after huge cuts to quicker state response

W]hile Perry complains about the feds’ response, he and Texas lawmakers have also been called to task for huge cuts to state firefighting resources passed earlier this year. The two-year budget that took effect last Thursday includes a 75 percent slash to volunteer fire departments — from $30 million to $7 million — and a one-third cut to the Texas Forest Service.

These GOP candidates should really stay away from corn dogs:

The Virginian

I'm surprised that this hasn't got more play in the PA media/blogosphere.

From the Trib:

Rick Santorum said at a Harrisburg news conference that he's now an official Old Dominion resident.

"We've been voting in Virginia for the last few elections," he said. "I officially changed my voter registration, I think, a year or so ago."


Maybe it's because nobody really takes his Presidential bid seriously since the latest Wapo poll nationally has him at 3% and Rasmussen shows only 4% support in Iowa. But he is still plugging away even after his Irene interrupted fundraising tour of Pennsylvania calling in some chits.

From Capitol Ideas:

Santorum Picks Up Endorsement of Some of PA State Senate GOP.

I'm glad I didn't see Lisa Baker's name on this list.


In addition to Browne, Corman and Scarnati, the full list of Pennsylvania GOP senators supporting Santorum includes: Sens. Mike Waugh of York County; Bob Robbins of Mercer County; Richard Alloway of Franklin County; David Argall of Schuylkill County; John Eichelberger of Blair County; Mike Folmer of Lebanon County; Bob Mensch of Montgomerry County; John Pippy of Allegheny County; Robert Tomlinson of Bucks County; Kim Ward of Westmoreland County; Don White of Indiana County and Gene Yaw of Lycoming County.

You all know that I have a soft spot for Ricky and had mixed feelings when he lost the 2006 Senate race to Bob Casey for all the wrong reasons.


We can't lose Rick Santorum

Remember the Cyber School thing and wanting to start a war with Iran that Ron Paul smacked him down on

He hasn't disappointed lately

Rick Santorum Gets Into Heated Argument With Student Over Gay Parents

So he got to mix the 2 themes recently

Santorum: The Gay Community Is On A ‘Jihad’ Against Me

Labor Day

“Labor is prior to and independent of capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed. Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.” -Abraham Lincoln

Imagine what a freak out FOX News and talk radio would have if our Democratic President said that today.

In this day when Unions are vilified and under assault by not just the business interests but who have convinced working people to ask "why do those people have benefits and workplace protections" instead of asking "why don't I?" The debate shifted from basic economic and fairness issues to distractions about abortion and other cultural issues such as gay marriage used as a wedge that also got people to buy into an economic agenda that is destroying the middle class. Read What's the Matter with Kansas?

After the last election Republican Governor's and state legislatures decided to go after public sector employee bargaining rights and to make it harded to vote despite never bringing up either issue during their election campaigns. The most attention was paid to Wisconsin but the same thing is going on in Pennsylvania.

I'm sick and tired of people that diss government workers. Did you ever think why the DMV is such a pain and the waits are long? Not enough workers to take care of the customers. A long wait at a SSA office? Not enough workers to take care of the customers. These people work their tails offs.

The poinyheaded bureaucrats in Washington DC that George Wallace ran against in 1968 and 1972 has become some sort of mantra for our lawmakers and GOP Presidential candidates today.

Labor day past

I piciked this up from the NEPA Libertarian Face book page of all places



Labor Day
by Kathy Kerr on Monday, September 5, 2011 at 10:35am.

I am old enough to remember when Labor Day was a celebration of the American worker, when being able to organize in a union meant a better living. Union was not a dirty word then, as it so often now conjures up thoughts of rigid work rules, excessive benefits and an impediment to profitability. To listen to the stories of the original "brothers" (there were no "sisters") following their American dream. Being a Teamster when it meant driving mule or draft horse teams of six, of my uncle starting the Stationary Engineers in Cleveland with his fists, my late brother starting a local chapter of the AFL-CIO. Sparkies in the IBEW, the Pipefitters and Millwrights, UAW guys off the line from Ford in Cleveland (the home of the kick-butt 351 engine). Uncle Bocky having the record for a big "pour" in the steel plant along the Cuyahoga River (yes, the infamous "Burning River"). To all those founders so long ago who were beaten with bats and pipes, shot at or shot dead . . . you are remembered this Labor Day. You built the great American middle class, made the melting pot work and instilled a hard work/hard nosed ethic in your families. Having oil-stained, callused hands was not shameful but a source of pride of giving an honest day's work for an honest dollar. This is almost extinct now, a little more than 100 years later.

.

Colege Football Saturday

Penn State beat Cupcake U 41-7 today as expected. The defense was solid giving up a late touchdown when the 3rd and 4th team players were on the field. The running game clicked with Silas Redd getting his 2nd 100 yard game and 2 touchdowns and the fullbacks pounded it inside when they needed to. They didn't have to throw often but I thought Matt McGloin looked a lot better than Rob Bolden when they did. Paterno doesn't like to play 2 QB's and I think McGloin will be the starter the rest of the year. The kicking game was a problem with Evan Lewis missing 2 field goals an a extra point and had some week kickoffs. Freshman Sam Ficken kicked the last PAT and may get a chance going forward.

Auburn came storming back to beat Utah State 42-38. I remember when Utah State came into Happy Valley in the the 70's and knocked off the Lions. Next weeks opponent Alabama took care of business beating the Akron Zips (love the nickname) 48-7. PSU will be a big underdog against Alabama next week and I'm not optimistic but that's why you play the games, anything can happen.

In baseball news the Phillies are 42 games over .500 for the first time in history with the best record in MLB. The pitching has been great all year as expected and now the bats are heating up. Having the best record doesn't always translate to success in the post season (Seatle Mariners) but it doesn't hurt.

Chris Carney unlikely to run again

Disclaimer: I have not talked with Chris since before the last election. I tried calling the last cell phone number I had for him but it said it was disconnected or I couldn't read my own handwritting and dialed the wrong number. So Chris, If your still reading the blog of a long time supporter please get in touch and set me straight. With that said, this is speculation.

I don't think that former Congressman Chris Carney will be running in the 10th or 11th CD this coming election. I know many of us want him to run and have floated the idea. In an iterview with Borys in July he teased that he was considering it.

Two things make another campaign unlikely for Carney.

The first is redisctricing. We may not know until January what the new Congressional districts will look like. It's probably to the GOP's advantage to wait to the last minute since they have the most seats to defend and give time for their voter suppression effort to make it's way through the courts. At this point we don't know what district Susqehanna County will be in. Not that should disqualify him from running in either district as the Constitution only requires that you be resident of the same state. But not living in the district is frowned upon.

The second is he now has a pretty good job in Virginia.


Former Lawmaker Lands Defense Contracting Job

Update: This is a good follow up from Politics in NEPA pointing out that Carney has not raised much money since the last election and rehashes the points I just made.

Barletta and Marino back Cantor's response to Hurricaine Irene

A few days ago I asked Lou Barletta's press guy if our Congressman agreed with Republican Majority Eric Cantor stance that whatever bills the federal government racks up paying for the recovery efforts will have to be offset with spending cuts elsewhere.


He didn't get back to me and that hurt my feelings but Barletta did answer the question when asked by our local press.


Irene victims about to face budget storm

In the article Barletta spews off about some foreign aid program that costs $42 million that he thinks should be cut. What the hell has that to do with a hurricane that has caused billions in damage when people need help yesterday? Tom Marino said “Everything is on the table; we need to downsize the government.”

Maybe they should listen to this guy


GOP Gov. Christie Slams Cantor's Idea to Negotiate Hurricane Aid


“You’re going to turn it into a fiasco like that debt-limit thing where you’re fighting with each other for eight or nine weeks and you expect the citizens of my state to wait? They’re not gonna wait, and I’m going to fight to make sure that they don’t,” Christie said putting the Tea Party-driven House on notice that its slash and gut politics will not be tolerated.


Funfest

I got this press release from Lou:


U.S. Rep. Barletta secures U.S. Navy flyover for Funfest parade on Sept. 11

So there is enough money in the budget for a flyover but not enough to help out the folks in the back mountain who don't have power or water.

What a failure as a Congressman. When we had Dan Flood and Kanjo in the House the response would have been immediate.

Luzerne County Young Democrats

Our local YD chapter will be meeting tonight at

Rodano's Pizza
53 Public Sq
Wilkes-Barre, PA

starting at 7PM


At the meeting The Luzerne County Young Democrats will be electing officers, endorsing the Democratic slate of candidates, and launching the new Luzerne County Young Democrats website.

A new website, woo hoo.

According to their Facebook event page a few candidates will also be attending including 11th CD candidate Bill Vinsko, Common Pleas hopefulls Jennifer Rogers and Molly Hanlon Mirabito plus county council nominee Jane Waitkus. I think that all Luzerne Democratric county candidates and those running for municipal offices would do themselves a favor by showing up. These kids give you enthusiasm and boots on the ground.

Many moons ago I was an officer in the Young Dems of Luzerne County organized by Bob Caruso who had the ear of State Senator Marty Murray who gave us office space and some money. The group fizzled out and I went off to see the world courtesy of the US Air Force.

This incarnation is much stronger with my local Plains committeeman Tom Shibula at the helm. He replaced some guy in the last election that I never met although he lives a few doors away. The VP Tony Thomas is the son of a HS classmate who used to comment regularly on this site. Herself is another officer of the the LCYD who inspired this post.

Luzerne County Dems finally have a website

Hey Gort! We just wanted to introduce you to our party's new website and Facebook page!


The LCDC recently launched our website, which we're all really proud of it. Chairwoman Kathy Kane and the entire Committee were very supportive of the effort and voted for the project unanimously. 2nd Dist. Chair Casey Evans is serving as the site's Webmaster. It will move the Luzerne County Democratic Party into a 21st century media environment and we'll be more competitive than ever before: both online and on the streets!


The website can be found here: http://luzernedems.com/meet-us


Our party's Facebook page can be found here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Luzerne-County-Democratic-Party/217974844886953

It's hard to believe that our local donkeys didn't get with the program until now. Our local elephants have been on the web for a few years now.

Luzerne County Republican Party

and on Facebook

It's hard to predict what is going to happen in the upcoming county council races after all the corruption mostly Democratic office holders have been implicated in. But this is an overwhelming Democratic county and they should win a majority on the newfangled council with the GOP putting a few candidates over the top. Who knows, the Libertarians or an independent may grab 1 or 2 of the 11 seats up for grabs.

Paying for Irene

Many people are saying that Hurricaine Irene was less than advertised. Tell that to the families of the people who were killed or suffered significant property damage. Our neck of the woods was spared major damage for the most part although Harveys Lake and Wyoming County and points north took some hard hits. I kept getting updates from Congressman Lou Barletta's office yesterday about his tour of the damage and alerting me to his press availabilities.


Good morning. Representative Barletta is touring flood damage in the 11th District today.There will be media availability with Rep. Barletta at The Shawnee Inn, River Road, Shawnee on Delaware, at noon.

Barletta media availability

Rep. Barletta will be at the Luzerne County EMA building on River Street, Wilkes-Barre, at about 3 p.m. to talk to the media about Hurricane Irene damage

He put out a statement earlier

HAZLETON – U.S. Representative Lou Barletta, PA-11, issued the following statement in the wake of Hurricane Irene, which impacted all five counties of his congressional district:

I want to extend my condolences to the families of those who were killed here in Northeastern Pennsylvania during this storm. They and their families will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Many parts of the 11th Congressional District have felt the impact of Hurricane Irene’s strong winds and heavy rain. Thousands of people are without power, and some will remain that way for days. Some cannot access roads or bridges. Some have seen personal property destroyed, while others are still threatened with the loss of their property.

My office has received – and will continue to receive – updates and briefings from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service, and other federal and state agencies in order to ensure the safety of the residents of the 11th Congressional District.

I will work with those agencies to make sure the federal government provides the appropriate response to this natural disaster. I will tour storm-damaged areas starting Monday morning so I can see first-hand the damage caused by Hurricane Irene, and will relay my observations and concerns at the federal level.

Sunday evening, Governor Tom Corbett asked President Obama to make a Presidential Disaster Declaration for several Pennsylvania counties, including Monroe County. Based on the firsthand reports I received from Monroe County officials, I fully support that declaration, and I will send a letter of support for that declaration to the president
Rep. Barletta will be at the Luzerne County EMA building on River Street, Wilkes-Barre, at about 3 p.m. to talk to the media about Hurricane Irene damage.


Lou Barletta is doing what he is supposed to do but getting help for the people who suffered damage may be tough to get.

Hurricane Irene relief funding sets up budget fight


Federal Emergency Management Agency Director Craig Fugate has declined to predict how much recovery efforts from Hurricane Irene will cost, but with widespread damage along the East Coast, it could run well into the billions. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor said Monday that whatever bills the federal government racks up paying for the recovery efforts will have to be offset with spending cuts elsewhere.


I'm all for Congress establishing a permanent disaster fund but they haven't done it so you have to deal with the latest storm.

Steve Benen says it better than I

And in case this story isn’t quite mind-numbing enough, also note that FEMA has been forced to temporarily suspend “some payments to rebuild roads, schools and other structures destroyed during spring tornadoes in Joplin, Mo., and Southern states and other recent natural disasters” in order to respond to Hurricane Irene.

That this is happening in the wealthiest nation in the world, simply because the Republican Party has been taken over by charlatans and fools, is a national disgrace.

For all of our differences over party, ideology, and creed, we know that when disaster strikes and our neighbors face a genuine emergency, America responds. We don’t ask what’s in it for us; we don’t weigh the political considerations; we don’t pause to ponder the larger ideological implications.

We act. It’s who we are; it’s what we do.

Or it was, right up until Americans elected a radicalized House majority.


I have asked Barletta's spokesman if he agrees with Cantor. I await his response.

Rick Santorum in Moutaintop tomorrow

Some of my friends in the Luzerne County GOP are excited that Rick Santorum will have a news conference at their golf tournament tomorrow.


MOUNTAINTOP, PA – Presidential Candidate Rick Santorum will be speaking to a group of Luzerne County Republicans Monday, August 29 at Blue Ridge Trail Golf Course in Mountaintop. Sen. Santorum will be making himself available to media at 3:30pm and speaking to the County GOP at around 4:00pm. Media is also invited to hear Sen. Santorum’s remarks to the GOP. This will be Santorum’s first campaign visit to Pennsylvania following his strong showing in the Ames straw poll. Sen. Santorum finished fourth in the Iowa straw poll despite begin outspent by his opponents ten to one. He is hoping to carry this momentum into the fall campaign season and continue to gain support and increases in poll numbers.

Senator Santorum Returns Home With Momentum

Yeah he finished the top of the also rans

Some people in PA will still not forgive his endosement of Arlen Specter in 2002.


There is a rumor that he will drop by Mountain Freeze for a dairy treat afterward

Update: Due to Sunday's inclement weather the Luzerne County GOP Golf Tournament has been postponed.
Rick Santorum's media availability has been moved to 5:45pm in the parking lot of Arcaro and Gennell's restaraunt in Old Forge.

You Tube weekend

Wasteful government spending

PITTSTON TWP. – For the first time, an armed sheriff’s deputy will be posted at the screener checkpoint at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport on a routine basis starting Oct. 1...The deputies will be from both Luzerne and Lackawanna counties and are being paid through a federal grant.

So the Federal government is going to pay the airport for a short period of time to put armed guards in a facility that to the best of my memory has never had a serious criminal incident.
The federal government will reimburse the airport $170,800 through Sept. 30, 2012. I have no knowledge of any threat to the place and I seriously doubt that there are any. I'm not sure what law or when it was passed authorizes this waste of money.

Maybe some airports may require this level of security but I don't think our's does. You can't defend against every imagined target but since 09/11/01 the reflex has been to try to. A one size fits all approach to security leads to waste with money going to Avoca instead of JFK or Dulles where it would be better spent.

Some people think the place is a good place to sleep.

I nominate the Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton Airport at Avoca, Pennsylvania, for your BEST list. It's clean, modern, well- guarded, and always empty (Nobody goes there)"

This reminds me of a few years ago when I tried to see the liberty bell. We are less free than 10 years ago. Not because of the terrorist but the because of the government's reaction to them.


The terrorist have won.

Oh great, more guns

Mike Lacey for Luzerne County Council

From the inbox:


Libertarians Tap Mike Lacey
Pick NEPA Tea Party Leader for Luzerne County Council Slot

Wilkes-Barre, Pa.—Today the Libertarian Party submitted election paperwork naming Mike Lacey as the Party’s replacement for Betsy Summers as one of its candidates for Luzerne County Council. Lacey, a local businessman, Republican, and co-founder of the NEPA Tea Party, is throwing his hat into the ring as a Libertarian in an unprecedented move according to Lou Jasikoff, Chair for the Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania. The opening came about as Ms. Summers recently qualified to run for both Luzerne County Council and Mayor of Wilkes-Barre. Ms. Summers is running to become the Mayor of Wilkes-Barre which left an opening on the Libertarian ticket for Luzerne County Council.
.

“Having served on the 2001 home rule study commission, and currently serving on the transition sub-committee for ethics, I looked for a replacement candidate that I could trust to serve the citizens of Luzerne County as I would. Mike Lacey is exactly the kind of individual needed to help make the new Home Rule Charter work. I am secure in the knowledge he will be a watchdog for the community and am honored to have such a principled individual as my replacement. Mike Lacey has my full endorsement,” said Betsy Summers.
.

“This race is not about party, it is a race about principle. I intend to be a true voice for the people, not the establishment. The time has come for all of us to put party politics aside and do what is best for our communities and country. I want to thank the Libertarian Party for this opportunity to help bring an end to the “good old boy” network that has become so pervasive in our local political system. It is imperative that we stop the corruption, nepotism and cronyism,” added Lacey.
.

Jasikoff added, “Libertarians have been running as Republicans and Democrats throughout the country for years. This might be the first time in history that a Republican is running as a Libertarian and times are truly changing. I am reminded of a Mark Twain quote, “In the beginning of a change, the Patriot is a scarce man, brave, hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, however, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a Patriot.”

Rick Santorum wants your money

From Dan Hirschhorn in Politico

Rick Santorum fundraising in Pennsylvania

Rick Santorum is embarking on a three-day fundraising blitz across Pennsylvania next week...Santorum will start Monday Aug. 29 with events in Philadelphia, the wealthy Montgomery County suburbs, the Lehigh Valley and the Scranton region. He’ll be joined at the latter event by freshman Rep. Lou Barletta, whose top adviser is a longtime Santorum confidant.

He is building on the momentum of his 4th place showing in the Iowa straw poll and his 3rd place finish in his backyard.

Rick and Lou together again, good times.

East coast earthquake

I can cross that one off the list. I remarked to Mrs. G not long ago that one of the extreme natural phenomenons I hadn't experienced was an earthquake. The Agnes flood and a few others, tornadoes in Nebraska, Hurricane Gloria and many blizzards but not an earth shaker.

I was sitting at the kitchen table writing out some checks when I heard the tea kettle rattling and the light over my head swaying. At first I thought it was the wind as the window was open but then I noticed that the table was shaking. At that point the light bulb lit up, holly shit we're having an earthquake. Thankfully, no one was injured and the damage is minor.

Earthquakes are rare around here but if you live long enough you can expect to see just about anything. So what"s next, Volcanic eruptions on the culm banks or a Tsunami on the Susquehanna?


Mark was not impressed and decided to take a cheap shot at government workers The Great (non) Quake of '11

Dana is blaming Al Gore I think we just had an earthquake here

Maria posted a Carol King video that other sights are also doing Song of the Day

Bernie had a cigarette Did the Earth Move For You, Too?

Carl says Lady Gaga and Bono have teamed up for a benefit telethon for the earthquake ravaged East Coast EARTHQUAKE!

Valley Scanner has a video of the event Wilkes-Barre Earthquake Footage

Ames, Iowa looking over it's shoulder

With all the attention on the Iowa straw poll my friend Dave Baloga decided to get a head start and organized his own.


At the Jonathan Balaster Memorial Summer Picnic on Aug.13th, 2011 we conducted a straw poll of potential (age 18 or older) voters and the results were compiled before anyone had known the Iowa straw poll results. There were 120 attendees and many children. It was a mixed political attendance with the majority Republicans, many Independents and an unknown number of Democrats.


The results of the Luzerne County GOP straw poll:

Rick Perry – 23 votes
Michelle Bachman – 15 votes
Rick Santorum – 12 votes
Mitt Romney – 11 votes
Newt Gingrich – 7 votes
Herman Cain – 7 votes
Ron Paul – 3 votes
Sarah Palin – 2 votes
Tim Pawlenty – 1 vote
.

I know this is a small sample but people who go to these events are the hard core Republicans who actually work in campaigns. I'm surprised that Santorum only got 12 out of 77 votes. Maybe they're still mad at him for endorsing Arlen Specter.


Ames, Shmames – Rick Perry Wins Luzerne GOP Straw Poll

Michelle Bachman wins the Iowa straw poll

I know I'm late to this as I was on vacation.

My prediction that Lady Gaga fans would put him over the top did Tim Pawlenty in. Such a shame as he was the only Republican candidate in the field that I actually met. He seemed less crazy then the rest of them.

Ron Paul came in second but he is the Rodney Dangerfield of the race


Ron Paul Gets No Respect

Michelle Bachman was the winner

(pic via Froth Slosh B'Gosh)

The dog had a good vacation

Our big worry going on vacation this year was how will our toddler act on the way and after we got there. Mrs. G's mother counseled against taking him because she thinks he is too bold and not ready to travel yet. I think the real reason is that she didn't want to be separated from her dog for a whole week.

I'm very happy to report that Quincy was a very good dog. He was great in the car there and back despite the delays that turned a 4 hour drive into a 6 hour frustrating journey. After we got to the beach the fun began with a walk at Lake Gerar then a parade down Rehoboth Avenue with people making a fuss over him. We repeated that everyday. Not that he was that interested in people after going to the park.

Also, me and Mrs. G made new friends and had a great time despite getting rained on all the time.




More photos at this link

Another view

A guest post, I timed this to publish while we are in Deleware.



THEY CRUCIFIED A GREAT MAN ON THURSDAY
AND WE WONDER WHY OUR STREETS AREN’T SAFE ANYMORE!!!
A Message by Mean Old Man

I’m fit to be tied that the commie justice department railroaded one of the finest young judges that Luzerne County ever produced, the honorable Mark Ciavarella.

All Mr. Ciavarella did was to give some young juvenile delinquent punks the hard knocks they deserved for terrorizing and plundering old folks like myself. Of course, no young punk would ever consider playing any of their spoiled rotten games on me and my missus as I would counter it with a few sprays of buckshot from my trusty Remington and then a little love and affection from my prize bulldog Titus.

Kids today have it too easy, especially criminal kids! After Judges Ciavarella and Conahan were laid victims in a kangaroo court all the prissy liberals (including the one who runs this site) were wondering why the crime rates in their neighborhoods were going up. Morons!!!! With the loss of these two great men I am reminded of what happened when we turned our backs on some other great patriots such as George W. Bush and our sainted Sen. Santorum (see you in the White House soon, Rick!). And for all the liberals who scream the praises of the present occupant of the White House let me tell ya one thing: When G.W. was President, we had a AAA credit rating and now we’re down to AA----see what I mean!!!!!

Instead of shipping poor Mr. Ciavarella off to a gulag they should be giving him a medal.

When I stroll up to the Wal Mart or the mini mart I always see these young punks with their pornographic tattoos and nose rings and clothes too big to fit them.
The hang out asking for money expecting something for nothing. What do you expect from a generation raised by smelly hippies???!!!! Damn!!!!!
And they don’t even have the respect to hold the door open for a lady or an elderly person either.

In my day we had respect for our elders and we didn’t give ‘em no lip either. I remember one time my mom took me on a trip to the city. We were heading into Isaac Long’s off the square and I let the door slam in a young woman’s face. Hell, I was just a kid what did I know? Anyway, when Pops came home from a hard day at the coal mines that evening Mom told him about what I did at the dinner table. Ol’ Pops shouted so loud it would make the devil himself shiver. He then proceeded to take my plate of Potato soup and fling it onto my face. On top of that he gave me a shiner in my left eye. I don’t know what hurt more, the pain of the hot soup on my face or the swelling of my eye. It was horrible, excruciating and humiliating—and you know what? I loved it!!! Because then I knew two things< that Pops and mom loved me and that a kid oughta know his place!!!! It’s a lesson I never forgot. God, I miss my parents a lot.

Kids today rule the parents and that’s why our country’s falling apart. But the commie who runs this site won’t tell you that. HE’s been against Mr. Ciavarella , Conahan and our Sainted Sen. Santorum (whom he shows doctored porn photos of) all along. And one more thing: he says he is off to the beach. MY FOOT!!!!!

I bet he’s either off to Peking to get together with the Commies and help plan the next credit downgrade that is all their fault.
NO doubt he pulled out all of his stocks a few weeks ago because commies always keep each other informed.

So, Gort have fun in Peking (sorry, the beach); tell all your fellow travelers to make sure they don’t forget to send the President a birthday card. As for me, I’ll be sitting here in my easy chair, smoking a Lucky and hoisting a Steg and toasting Judge Ciavarella while listening to the sounds of Pearl Bailey singing “Brother Can You Spare a Dime?”

TO hell with your vacation, To hell with your readers, and to hell with Judge Kosik!!!!!!!

I HATE YOU ALL!!!

You Tube weekend

Yhe big question tonight is who will win the Iowa straw poll. My bet is Lady Gaga fans will put Tim Pawleny over the top.


Can You Guess Tim Pawlenty’s Favorite Lady Gaga Song?

Off to the beach

Off to Rehoboth for a week. This will be Quincy's first road trip and he is all excited. He still hasn't paid me his share of the house rent yet, deadbeat.

If anything newsworthy happens let me know in the comments. While we are at the beach the only TV we watch is the weather channel and baseball. No news, no internet and no newspapers.

28 years for Ciavarella

CV:
A defiant Mark A. Ciavarella Jr. was sentenced to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $965,000 in restitution this morning after reading a statement to the court in which he denied trading "kids for cash."

"Those three words made me the personification of evil. They made me the devil. They made me the anti-Christ. They made me toxic," Ciavarella told U.S. District Judge Edwin M. Kosik.


He is evil as is the other Juvie brother Michael Conahan. I was surprised by the sentence
since they previously were willing to cop a plea for 7 years in jail. I was expecting something like twice that time. Al Flora will appeal it but Scootch is headed to jail until that is sorted out.

This video of the mother of one of the kids that got sold up the river by on the Times Leader website expresses the anger that many of us feel although we can never feel the pain of losing her son.


"You ruined my fucking life."

Riots in London

Dipsy and the other Teletubbies are trying to restore order