RIP Paul Stebbins

I first met PJ in 2006 when he announced he was running for State Representative in the 120th HD. He ran an energetic campaign but lost in a 3 way primary. He attended a few of our Saturday OT Committee and Operatic Society get togethers (the forerunner of Blogfest) and we ran into each other at various Republican events. The last time I saw him was at Aaron Kaufer's kickoff and he told me was looking forward to the next Blogfest.

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PJ was a regular commenter on Gort42 and wrote many guest posts. He even announced that he was running for state rep on this site. You can view his contributions and my coverage of his race here.

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He was a person of generosity and good humor that made you instantly like him. An educator who was a coach of youth sports and did his best to make his community a better place. We should all follow his example. My heartfelt condolences to the love of his life Suzie and his family.

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When I read his obituary I both laughed and cried.

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Paul John Matthew Stebbins Jr.

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Paul John Matthew Stebbins Jr. surprised and annoyed us all one final time by dying suddenly Wednesday, March 7, 2012, in Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

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On Aug. 25, 1979, according to him, "God gave the ladies of the world a gift." One special woman was lucky enough to unwrap that gift and on June 26, 2004, he married his best friend and soul mate, of almost eight years, Suzie. He even forgave her for being a New York Yankees fan.

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Besides his wife, "PJ" found the greatest joys in the Boston Red Sox, being the best uncle, bargain shopping, Phil Collins, Republicans, funny movies, the Florida Gators and pushing his father's buttons. (And maybe the occasional hate mail that showed up after he wrote an editorial.)

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He was a member of St. Barbara Parish (St. Anthony of Padua Church), Exeter.

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He graduated from Bloomsburg University with a degree in elementary education. Paul also served as treasurer for the Young Republicans.

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With heavy hearts, he leaves behind, in addition to his wife, the former Suzie Scavone, his father, Paul Stebbins Sr.; siblings, Lea Black, Tonya Stebbins, Mandi Stebbins, Krissy Blank, Katie Cartwright and Jacob Cartwright; in-laws, Mark, Rosemary and Becky Scavone; grandmother, Irene Stebbins; aunts, uncles, cousins, several very much loved nieces and nephews; and his crazy dog, Yogi.

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Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial service from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Gubbiotti Funeral home, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.

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PJ would ask that you honor his memory by donning your favorite Red Sox ball cap and/or voting for a Republican!

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His more practical family members, however, ask that you honor him by smiling through the pain, doting upon your children, tolerating someone difficult, making amends, being a better friend, and most importantly — turning to someone you love, right now, and telling them so. These are the qualities that he possessed and that the world needs more of.

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Many thanks to his doctors, Charles Manganiello, Mark Bernardi, Vijayaramanr Pugazhenai and Susan Brozena, and to all of the nurses at the Geisinger heart hospital.

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In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Bridge Foundation, 35 E. Northampton St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.

Youth in Politics dinner

A big congratulations to Bob Zaruta and Jen Rinehimer along with the rest of the Young Republicans of Luzerne County for putting together such a successful event. Getting such a big crowd for a YR gathering  in a historically Democratic County is a credit to their hard work.

Many moons ago I was an officer in the Young Democrats of Luzerne County and I'm a big supporter of both the YR's and YD's. They are our future leaders. Everybody involved in political campaigns think they are the grand strategist like David Axlerod or Karl Rove but first you have to understand the nuts and bolts of a campaign like making the phone calls and knocking on doors. Young Dems and Reps are the training ground.

Now for commentary on the event with a minimum of snark.


Bob Zaruta took on the "myth" that young people are all Obama liberals. The old joke is there is no such thing as a young Republican because they are all born middle aged.

Luz County YR Prez Bob Zaruta

The best part of the night was th PJ Stebbins award. PJ was a regular commenter on Gort42 and many other places even announcing his run for State Rep on this site. PJ was the hard working foot soldier for many campaigns that all political types can learn from. Aaron Kaufer  received the plaque from Suzie Stebbins.

Aaron Kaufer and Suzie Stebbins

The Young Republican of the year baton was passed from Tarah Toohil to Stefanie Salavantis. I asked Toohil some questions and it was interesting what she didn't say or deny. Read between the lines. More on that later. A reporter asked me a few days ago for the name of her campaign manager and didn't know. She told me tonight she doesn't have one. Bad move.

Feel free to add this pic to your binder of women.

Tarah Toolhill and Stefanie Salaventis

I can't make the LWV forum with Aaron Kaufer and Phyllis Mundy at Wyoming Sem on Tuesday because Mrs G. would rather to see the Aussie Pink Floyd Show at the Kirby that night. I recruited John Lombardo to be the Special Gort42 correspondent that night. He has been a regular contributor to PittstonPolitics.com and has made his English teachers proud. He is a an articulate young man.

John Lombardo and Sara Czernaikowski

More pics on my Facebook page

Joe Peters said something about being on TV.

Gort42 and Joe Peters

Luzerne County Debit Cards

A guest post from Paul Stebbins Jr .a recent canidate in the 120th State Rep district. He wrote it as an LTE to the CV but I'm sure they will chop it up. Here is the whole thing:


Dear Editor;
As we watch the snow fall I wondered about an article that was written on December 10th about Commissioner Skrepenak defending Sam Hyder's Job. I reread the article just to make sure I had my facts straight before I came up with an argument and here goes. Commissioner Skrepenak serves both on the Prison Board, as head of the Commissioners and also on several other posts. Why do our elected officials do such? Now with all the flap surrounding the debit cards whose name continually comes up? Your name Commissioner Skrepenak. He was quoted as saying "For future training, whatever will save the taxpayers money." After four years you have finally figured that out, congratulations. So here is how I will help Commissioner Skrepenak. I looked at the place where Sam Hyder stayed in Canandaigua, NY and went online to check prices. I was rather intrigued to know that online I can stay at a Super 8 in the same city for an average cost of 68.00 a night and breakfast is included. There's also an econolodge for 72.00 and a motel for 56.00 a night. I'm aware that a Super 8 doesn't seem like a great place but this wasn't his vacation, he was on taxpayer dollars. Instead Sam Hyder stayed at The Inn on the Lake at a nice average cost of 164.00 a night. Don't believe me , spend five minutes online like I did and you'll be amazed or disgusted. I don't know if 42,000 dollars means little to the Commissioners or not but that pays for a Children and Youth worker's salary or someone who actually contributes to the welfare of Luzerne County. Thanks Commissioner, Sam Hyder and anyone else that couldn't take the time to research and save taxpayers money. Now I hope you enjoy Mr. Grier's challenge because you brought this upon yourselves. Maybe now someone will resign or be fired because your failure to act over this says more than your empty "we're going to save the taxpayers money," routine that we keep hearing from you.

Paul Stebbins Jr.

Upcoming events

Tonight is the Wilkes-Barre Township Fall Picnic at the American Legion, 54 Chestnut St, W-B Twp from 6-10PM.

Tomorrow you can catch Joe Valenti of Pittston Politics on Joe Holden's Sunday morning show along with Kristen Cook, Editor of the Wilkes University Newspaper, The Beacon and Sue Henry of WILK. It'll air Sunday morning on WBRE at 11:00AM and WYOU at 11:30.




Blogcon was a big success and the Fearsome Foursome are planning next year's event join them on Wednesday at

Rodano's

53 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania starting at 6PM.

NEPA Blogcon Meetup 2: Electric Boogaloo


It's a meet up! Hang out, have some drinks, network, tweet about stuff, maybe even some hugs!!  pants required. Squirrels with light sabers will be there.

We can discuss NEPA BlogCon 2012, what we liked, disliked, and what we hope to see next year.


Conservative Voter Rally  

Saturday, October 20, 2012  11:30am until 3:30pm

 

 

Genetti Ballrooms Inn & Suites

1341 N Church St, Hazleton, Pennsylvania

 

Special guest speakers include: Lou Barletta (U.S. Congressman), Sam Rohrer (Pres., PA Pastors Network), Tarah Toohil (PA House of Representatives), David Madeira (The David Madeira Show), Bob Zaruta (Pres., Luzerne Co. Young Republicans), and Laureen Cummings (Candidate for U.S. Congress).

Organizations supporting & participating in the event: God in Government, Luzerne County Young Republicans, PA Pastors Network, 94.3FM "The Talker," First District Republicans, Victory Bible Church, The Voice of John (pro-life movie), Citizens Alliance of PA, and Tea Party Patriots.

Tiffany Cloud (Host of Storm Politics on WYLN-TV) will serve as Emcee for the event. Pastor Ron Radtke (Victory Bible Church) will lead the gathering in prayer.

 

Youth in Politics Sunday October 21st 5-8PM

The Luzerne County Young Republicans will be hosting our second annual Youth in Politics event! Youth in Politics is a celebration of the accomplishments of young people in politics. Last year's event was a huge success and we anticipate this year being bigger and better.

This year we will present the Young Republican of the Year Award to District Attorney, Stefanie Salavantis. The award will be presented by last year's winner, State Rep. Tarah Toohil.

We will also be presenting the first annual P.J. Stebbins Award. P.J. Stebbins was one of the founding members of Luzerne County Young Republicans. He passed away earlier this year and the YRs plan to honor him on a yearly basis by presenting an award in his name to a young person who has shown dedication not only in the political arena, but also in his or her community. This year's award will be given to fellow Young Republican, Aaron Kaufer.

 

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CV bias?

My pal Paul Stebbins has been doing some research and sends along this guest post. PJ ran for the Republican nomination for State Rep in the 120th District in 2006.
He also sent this to the TL.

Recently I have seen letters supporting Congressman Chris Carney as "brave and courageous." I dare Rep. Carney to tell me that he did not have a one-on-one meeting with Nancy Pelosi, the most liberal democrat in Congress. He changed his vote and his courageous and brave stance doomed many of the unborn. However that is a whole other letter.


There is a reason I don't trust the Citizen's Voice and it is this. Among research I noticed on opensecrets.org that James Haggerty Sr. has donated three thousand dollars to the campaign of Chris Carney. Matthew Haggerty has donated 2500.00 and Daniel Haggerty has donated eight hundred dollars to Rep. Carney. This wouldn't be an issue except that two are publishers and one is the General Manager of Times-Shamrock which owns our local Citizens Voice and Scranton Times. How am I supposed to read their endorsements knowing that they have invested money in candidates. I also researched the editors and managing staff of your news paper and there were no donations to candidates. I guess this clearly shows why the Times Leader is the newspaper to trust when it comes down to endorsements.

In the end, predictions don't matter when you have a horse in the race. Citizens voice has turned out to be biased and now should be seen as flawed when they make their endorsements this fall when it comes to candidates they monetarily supported. So if the Citizens Voice doesn't print your letter that is against Chris Carney's vote then perhaps this has set the record straight.

Paul Stebbins
West Pittston

Here are my sources for your review
http://www.opensecrets.org/indivs/index.php?capcode=d7vcp&name=Haggerty&state=PA&zip=&employ=&cand=


Maybe he missed this LTE in yesterday's Voice


Reps. Carney and Kanjorski voted wrong on health care

Editor:

I find the editorial section describing the "courageous" actions of congress downright insulting. If anything, this vote demonstrated how Congress is more interested in special deals and listening to party leadership than in respecting the wishes of their constituency. Chris Carney's 10th district is 5 to 4 Republican, yet he voted for a wasteful bill because "Americans deserve the same health care as congress." Unfortunately, Mr. Carney fails to understand that Americans are not allowed to spend money recklessly like their congressional counterparts.

Paul Kanjorski is worse. He essentially voted for the end of Sallie Mae in his own district with the Federal takeover of student loans. In this economy, he didn't place the interests of his constituents first.

I intend to vote against Carney in the upcoming election.

Robert Kirby

Harding

Some thank you's

First Paul Stebbins :

"A Campaign Reflection"

First I would like to Congratulate John C. Cordora for his victory in the 120th District Republican Primary. Second, I would also like to congratulate Joe Chacke III for his showing also. It was an honor to be a part of this race. They always say hindsight is 20/20 and it really is. The armchair quarterbacking on the Wednesday after elections has probably already begun. I want the 1089 supporters that voted for me to know that your support was greatly appreciated. I also want you to know that this is not the end of the road. My volunteers and I put our hearts out there in this race. There isn't a better group of volunteers that I could have found. I want to thank them for their hardwork. It's always toughest to write your feelings after an election (if you lost). I want people to know that I have my head held high and a smile on my face. There aren't too many 26- year- old candidates in state races that gather 1089 votes (24%). The message was out there and 1089 people believed. I want John C. Cordora to know that I look forward to helping him in his quest to defeat Phyllis Mundy. I want you all to know that I am greatly appreciative for your support. I will see you again.


Joe Chacke:

Unfortunately yesterday I was unsucessful in my bid for the Republican
Nomination for State Representative. We had a strong 2nd place showing,
but that provides little consolation. Congratulations to Mr. Cordora.
I also want to thank the voters of Forty Fort where I received an
overwhelming majority of the vote. At most polling locations in Forty
Fort I received 80-85% of the vote. Unfortunately, At almost all
Kingston polls I came in 2nd to Cordora. I guess the residents of
Kingston preferred a hometown guy and never really considered the
issues. I wish Mr. Cordora well, but I cannot support his candidacy
because we just disagree on too many issues. Maybe a third
party candidate will pop up. If not, I look forward to working with
Representative Mundy for two more years. Also, best wishes
to Paul Stebbins who did well.

120th debate

John Cordora didn't show up. I got distracted and missed this one.

KINGSTON-.....Paul Stebbins Jr. and Joe Chacke, seemed to not care who won the primary, just as long as somebody topples Mundy in November. "I'm just in this because we're not getting what we deserve in Harrisburg," said Chacke, who repeatedly criticized Mundy during the debate. "I think this is the race that's sailing under the radar," said Stebbins. "She thinks she"s already won."

Clean Sweep backs Stebbins

Dr. Rick broke the story.

The Big News IS Here...Paul J.M. Stebbins Jr. became the only candidate in the 120th District race to garner the support of PACleansweep this past week. For more details you can go to the PACleansweep website at http://www.pacleansweep.com/

120th House District debate set

I got a heads up that there will be a debate between the candidates for the 120th District that is centered on the west side of Luzerne County.

The League of Women Voters have scheduled a debate for April 19th at 7:00 at Wyoming Seminary (Kingston).

I have spent the day trying to get confirmation from the candidates; Republicans Paul J.M. Stebbins Jr, Joe Chacke III and incumbent Democrat Phyllis Mundy. Republican candidate John Cordara doesn't have a website that I know of.


Joe Chacke hasn't got back to me yet, but that's understandable, it's Sunday. Paul Stebbins is in and looking foward to the opportunity to discuss the issues. As I said I don't know how to get a hold of Cordara. Phyllis Mundy had this reply:

I have a long-standing commitment for that evening with the GreaterWilkes-Barre Labor Council. However I look forward to a debate in the fall with the winner of the Republican Primary.


Tomorrows headline in the Times-Leader if I hadn't beat them to it:

Mundy Ducks Debate EXCLUSIVE

Luzerne County

I'm a bit behind on the latest outrage in Luzerne County but my friend PJ is up to date. A very welcome guest post:

I have just read in today's paper (Jan. 4th) that Tim Grier's challenge was denied by the state due to his failure to own property. I however do own property in Luzerne County and if Mr. Grier would like to contact me I would be more than happy to file a complaint as a taxpayer with "unlimited status."

I Probably wouldn't have thought much about it until Commissioner Skrepenak decided to run his mouth about concerned citizens. I know political victories are rare for him lately but please act like you've done it before. Commissioner Skrepnak liked to say how they "didn't blink," but if I recall he had a meeting with Mr. Grier essentially begging him to drop his complaint. For you Commissioner Skrepenak to attack Commissioner Urban after the many wrong things that you have done is downright laughable. When it was time for you to take your lumps you kept your head down and didn't acknowledge the people with legitimate questions.

You have "defamed your character" through your actions. Do not blame a young man for questioning his government and do not get angry when people listen. That is what democracy is at its finest. I don't know Tim Grier and probably do not agree on many philosophical issues but we agree on one thing. You're to be accountable for our money and spend it wisely. Do not blame Urban and say he was angry about this past year's elections.

If you live in Luzerne County you are aware that there is a huge registration disparity. However your actions Commissioner Skrepenak have made it easier for Republicans and I thank you for that. The one constant that I hear from my fellow constituents is why did this come out after the election? Perfect timing Commissioner Skrepenak.

Now if you could please kick us while we're down, isn't it reassessment time? You did hold off for after the election, remember? More of my fellow constituents and my tax dollars for you to figure out how to waste.

Paul J.M. Stebbins Jr.

(Ed Note: I always welcome guest posts. Just email me your stuff.)

Upcoming events

Today 120th HD Republican candidate Aaron Kaufer is having a meet and greet or cookout depending if you read his PR or Facebook page at the Shavertown Shopping Center parking lot

148 N. Memorial Highway, Shavertown, Pa. 18708 2-4PM

 Free hot dogs and soda will be provided. Republican and Democrat elected officials in support of Aaron will be in attendance to show support for him. All are invited to attend.

I can't wait to see what Democratic elected officials will risk the wrath of Phyllis by showing up for this. 

A big chunk of what passes as the Republican 'establishment' around here will be elsewhere at the same time. Bad move by the Kaufer camp on scheduling. 

It competes with this gathering.

Conservative Voter Rally  

Saturday, October 20, 2012  11:30am until 3:30pm

 

 

Genetti Ballrooms Inn & Suites

1341 N Church St, Hazleton, Pennsylvania

 

Special guest speakers include: Lou Barletta (U.S. Congressman), Sam Rohrer (Pres., PA Pastors Network), Tarah Toohil (PA House of Representatives), David Madeira (The David Madeira Show), Bob Zaruta (Pres., Luzerne Co. Young Republicans), and Laureen Cummings (Candidate for U.S. Congress).

Sunday is

Youth in Politics  at 

The Appletree Terrace

4 Newberry Estate, Dallas, Pennsylvania 18612

 

5-8PM

This year we will present the Young Republican of the Year Award to District Attorney, Stefanie Salavantis. The award will be presented by last year's winner, State Rep. Tarah Toohil.

We will also be presenting the first annual P.J. Stebbins Award. ... This year's award will be given to fellow Young Republican, Aaron Kaufer. 

 

With all the controversy swirling around Tarah Toohil right now we will see if she shows up for these events or catches a cold. I was invited by YR Prez Bob Zaruta  to the dinner and plan to ask her some questions.  

 

On Monday there is the PA Attorney General Date on PCN 

Legislative Correspondents’ Association Candidate Debate for the Attorney General with Democratic candidate Kathleen Kane and Republican candidate David Freed 7-8PM

And a feedbag for Senator Bob Casey

Monday, October 22, 2012
5:30-7:30 PM

Colarusso’s La Palazzo
4500 Birney Avenue
Moosic, PA 18507

 

On Facebook

 

Tuesday there are 2 events I would like to go to but we will be at the Kirby Center for the Australian Pink Floyd show. Mrs. G said that politics is music to my ears but that is not true. 

In the 120th HD the League of Women's voters will host a forum with incumbent Phyllis Mundy (D) and her challenger Aaron Kaufer (R) at 7 p.m. Oct. 23 at Wyoming Seminary's Buckingham Performing Arts Center.

 

 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY:


Tuesday Oct. 23rd 7pm - 9pm


*111th HD  Representative Sandra Major and her opponent Mr. Jeffrey Dahlander.

I feel cheated

CV: Because of prior commitments, state Rep. Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston, and her challenger John Cordora in the 120th District, and Karen Boback, R and Fred Nichols, D, contenders for the open state representative seat in the 117th district, could not be available.

No debate between Mundy and Cordora. What entertainment that promised to be. When Cordora announced he was running he said his top priority, if elected, would be banning gay marriage. Like that's a problem. Other press reports quote him as saying the problems in our country and state are caused by liberals and leftists. I've never met the man and was looking forward to seeing him in action. How did this guy ever get nominated when voters of the 120th had 2 sensible candidates in Joe Chacke and Paul Stebbins?

A message from Dr. Rick

Dear Friends,

I have been asked by many more people than who I thought frequented the site why I gave up blogging and deleted the blog. The answer can be found below...

I would like to thank everyone who contributed in some way to the success of the ACU. Unfortunatly, due to the added pressure of finishing school only a year away and for future political reasons, I have decided to forego blogging. I knew this when things I wrote started to sound the same to me.

I will continue to read the local blogs and occasionally add a post or 2 but nothing like I used to. Hopefully, my ideas and thoughts will be remembered and will impact on future endeavours positively.

I know this may come as a shock to many, especially those of you who think I just like reading my own material or hearing myself talk, but I have toyed with this notion for some time. It was my intention to stop blogging whenever I was done helping out with the Stebbins campaign.

Hopefully, in the future I can have the support of the blog community when I decide to do whatever it is that I decide to do. But until then, It's been fun.

Thanks for your support and interest,

Rick

120th District results

Cordora , John GOP 2,319 47.40 %

Chacke , Joe GOP 1,484 30.34 %

Stebbins , Paul GOP 1,089 22.26 %

TL: “Phyllis Mundy will face the strongest challenge of her career,” Cordora said Tuesday night.
Mundy was unopposed for her party’s nomination.
Cordora entered the fray in July, buoyed by widespread public outrage about legislative pay raises. Mundy was among the lawmakers who voted to increase their own salaries between 16 and 34 percent. The raises were later repealed.
But, Cordora says their differences go much deeper.
“I’m pro-life, and anti-gay marriage. I’m a real Ronald Reagan Republican,” he said. “Phyllis Mundy is a self-serving liberal who has become out of touch with the mainstream of her constituents.”
Cordora said he’s confident the other Republican candidates will back him.

Phyllis responds: Known for her battles with Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Mundy plans to fight to keep the seat.“I have always found that a campaign is a good time to reflect on what I have accomplished and what I want to accomplish in the next term. A campaign every other year also keeps me close to the people I represent,” Mundy said. “My little army of volunteers and I are looking forward to a vigorous campaign. I have worked very hard and accomplished a great deal both here at home and in Harrisburg. The campaign will give us an opportunity to highlight those achievements. We know how to win. We have done this many times before. ““And I am looking forward to an in-depth discussion of the issues and challenges facing my constituents, the district and the region,” Mundy said.

This Cordora guy is something. Abortion, gay marriage, the ghost of St. Ronnie and yell liberal at your opponent. It sounds like he listens to too much talk radio. As far as having the backing of his opponents, he should read Joe Chacke's website.

For what it's worth

I don't think endorsements count for much. In the contested elections tomorrow I have my picks. So here it goes and you can argue with me.

US Senate: I will vote for Chuck Pennachio, Casey wins

Lt. Gov.:Valerie McDonalds Roberts, CBK wins

10th Congressional District: Kathy Scott, Sherwood wins. But it will be closer than you think.

20th Senate: Carl Sutton, Lisa Wins

121st State Rep: Eddie Day Pashinski, O'Donnell wins

120th: Paul Stebbins, too close to call

118th: R-Jim Spinola, who knows
D-Red O, Mike Carroll wins

117th: Roll the dice

Who will take on Phyllis?

The TL highlighted the 120th District race on Saturday. The candidates are:

Joe Chacke

John C. Cordora

Paul J.M. Stebbins

Who will/would you vote for? The order of finish and the point spread.

120th District Debate

Republicans for Good Government Political Action Committee.....will hold debates before the May 16 primary. Republican candidates in the 120th District (the seat of incumbent Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston) will debate at the American Legion Black Diamond Post, 386 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, Monday, May 8, at 7 p.m.

The candidates are:

John Cordara

Paul Stebbins

Joe Chacke

Let's hope this one actually happens.

Debate cancelled, debate scheduled

From the CV:

The Wilkes-Barre area League of Women Voters has canceled the debate among candidates for state representative in the 120th District, originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 19, at Wyoming Seminary, Kingston. League Co-Chairwoman Jane Manganella said incumbent Rep. Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston, was unable to attend due to a prior commitment, and only one of three Republican candidates, Paul Stebbins Jr., replied.

However another group is sponsoring a Republican candidate debate.

Republicans for Good Government Political Action Committee.....will hold debates before the May 16 primary. Republican candidates in the 120th District (the seat of incumbent Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston) will debate at the American Legion Black Diamond Post, 386 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, Monday, May 8, at 7 p.m.

There will be two debates on Wednesday, May 10, at the Shickshinny Fire Hall, West Union Street. The first will be at 7 p.m. for Republican candidates for the 20th senatorial district (the seat of retiring Sen. Charles D. Lemmond Jr., R-Dallas), the second at 8 p.m. for state representative candidates in the 117th legislative district (the seat of retiring state Rep. George Hasay, R-Shickshinny).

Local candidates websites

I'm not going to list the sites of the statewide candidates but will give a glimpse of our Luzerne County hopefuls. I'm going to wait until after the March 7 deadline to list all the candidates but in the mean time here are one's who have established a web presence.

20th Senatorial District

Daivid Madeira

Jim Haggerty

Lisa Baker


117th House District

James May

Stanford Davis

Karen Boback


118th House District

Jim Spinola


120th House District

Joe Chacke

Paul Stebbins

120th District update

With all the comings and goings of candidates for Luzerne County's seats in the legislature I'm going to try and sort out who is running for what. Today we start with the 120th District House seat held by Democrat Phyllis Mundy. So far she does not have a primary opponent but 4 Republicans have announced their intention to seek the nomination to oppose her.

The first to announce was Kingston businessman John C. Cordara who said his decision to run for the state House of Representatives was ignited by Mundy's support of last year's controversial pay-raise legislation. In his official announcement he said " My first order of business is to ban gay marriage." He also had an amusing letter published in the TL recently:

Every two years, liberal state Rep. Phyllis Mundy comes out of her hole to predict the political climate for the next two years. She is paid $72,500 plus many benefits per year to do so.
This year, Phyllis, known to some taxpayers as "Punxsutawney Phyllis," saw her shadow. That means two more years of pay raises and self-serving politics.

The second candidate to throw his hat into the ring is Forty Fort Borough Council President Joe Chacke. In his announcement he outlined his role in the Forty Fort police crises and Phyllis Mundy's lack of involvement. From his website:

This past year Forty Fort Borough made a very difficult and controversial decision. Based on skyrocketing costs and with our incomes declining, we couldn't afford the police department as is. After many months of intense meetings and negotiating with the police department, we reached an agreement that saved the department and made it economically feasible to maintain it. Throughout the entire ordeal, Representative Phyllis Mundy sat idly by without offering any support or guidance to the Borough. We need a PRO-ACTIVE Representative in Harrisburg who is willing to work with local government officials to assist them with these issues.

West Pittston educator Paul J. M. Stebbins Jr. is an outspoken opponent of regionalization and thinks slots are not the answer to funding our schools. He has some detailed positions on his website.

In the area of crime he favors expanding the predator Task Force and will work with the Pennsylvania Drug Task Force to combat illegal drugs in our area. And "He plans to introduce project PEACE into our local school districts to bring youth violence to a halt. " He also outlines an education plan and believes the first step in health care reform is tort reform.

The other new candidate is Jackson Township Republican Ronald Chvotzkin. He originally was a candidate to succeed retiring State Senator Charles Lemmond but switched to the house race. He is motivated by a frustration in dealing the mental health system and will not take a pay raise if elected. He calls himself a "people's candidate" There will be no back room deals or nepotism," he said. "The wealthy people have too much control and the poor are getting poorer and the middle class are feeling the squeeze. I'm running to help the people." . He supports eliminating the property tax with a tax based on income and wants to restore funding to special education. In addition, Chvotzkin said he will work to create more high-paying jobs in the district and reduce health insurance premiums