tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-92996552024-03-18T22:10:31.839-04:00Lehigh Valley RamblingsToday's one-liner: "The shortest way to the distinguishing excellence of any writer is through his hostile critics." Richard LeGallienne Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.comBlogger14101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-69912360512675021562024-03-18T00:00:00.023-04:002024-03-18T00:17:12.875-04:00NorCo DA Authorizes Private Criminal Complaint By GOP Chair Against Four State Committee Members<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-IhGIee4usQk4J7QVEi9RCyWvF5OPibhj6c02nActK0fP1_Ad_zZRrOTD9nU07iJXmahokroH2fZKT-t3I3JmjvbKc9jenSO_TBOwj2CTKlTUDaK9S7K41mLRrM_Zmqbie_4-cgiLdLa_5gsZuH5787yNnO71_bKRwZ3GCVSVmOWkrqAtKIf-/s400/Glenn%20Geissinger.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-IhGIee4usQk4J7QVEi9RCyWvF5OPibhj6c02nActK0fP1_Ad_zZRrOTD9nU07iJXmahokroH2fZKT-t3I3JmjvbKc9jenSO_TBOwj2CTKlTUDaK9S7K41mLRrM_Zmqbie_4-cgiLdLa_5gsZuH5787yNnO71_bKRwZ3GCVSVmOWkrqAtKIf-/s320/Glenn%20Geissinger.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Glenn Geissinger</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Northampton County DA Steve Baratta has authorized the filing of a private criminal complaint by GOP party chair Glenn Geissinger against four elected members of the Republican State Committee. Steve Lynch, Debra Biro, Melanie Heilman and Richard Morea have each been charged with eight counts of harassment and disorderly conduct as a result of their conduct at a Republican County committee meeting on June 8, 2023. All charges are third degree misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $2,500. <p></p><p>Lynch opposed Geissinger in the race for county chair and lost. These four committee members have been openly hostile to Geissinger since that time and have disrupted several meetings. </p><p>During that June 8 meeting, two Republican committee members who are married to each other were confronted with pictures of them engaged in intimate relations, together with accusations that they had posted several videos on an Internet porn site. Both have denied to me that they were aware that their intimate videos had been taken and posted online. </p><p>These two married committee members have been Geissinger supporters.</p><p>To make sure that I was aware of what was going on, someone calling himself "Another concerned Republican" emailed me some of the photos. Because it is a crime to share intimate photographs of another person without his or her consent, I forwarded this email to former DA Terry Houck. </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5qrLvXe42WY7r5KzZivTeogfs3z9tTGM8WISmPdqZHvLcQR3X8lQ863-UfgtDRwfRIe_CzW7R-T3p-zE4kZVmbxTjntqkJ1RVx0u9PbAd4H-DwTiiTZkWb0aVG_3iy3Z93yTMBGAuIhy1BeZ3kKLKokYxJ0DLVbJCBH7DwIykmIe5cft8NCu/s1499/steve%20lynch.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1499" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5qrLvXe42WY7r5KzZivTeogfs3z9tTGM8WISmPdqZHvLcQR3X8lQ863-UfgtDRwfRIe_CzW7R-T3p-zE4kZVmbxTjntqkJ1RVx0u9PbAd4H-DwTiiTZkWb0aVG_3iy3Z93yTMBGAuIhy1BeZ3kKLKokYxJ0DLVbJCBH7DwIykmIe5cft8NCu/s320/steve%20lynch.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Steve Lynch</span></td></tr></tbody></table>After being accosted with these images at the county committee meeting on June 8. the female married committee member abruptly left and has refused to return since that time. Deeply embarrassed and already suffering from depression, it was touch-and-go with her for awhile. That's why I decided against writing the details of this story at the time. <p></p><p>The four state committee members have since been banned from attending county meetings.</p><p>This matter was investigated by two police departments who decided against filing charges. But Geissinger's private criminal complaint was still under consideration when DA Terry Houck left office. </p><p>After taking office, representatives of the District Attorney's office met with Geissinger, after which his private criminal complaint was approved. "I am very grateful to the District Attorney's office," said Geissinger. </p><p>Will this divide county Republicans in a crucial Presidential election year? Geissinger believes it will do the opposite. "I believe this is going to help the party," he said. "Unruly and disruptive behavior by a few is not going to prevent the party from doing its job, which is supporting our Republican candidates."</p><p><a href="https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/lehighvalley/4-northampton-co-gop-members-charged-for-conduct-at-june-2023-meeting/article_e422647c-e4b6-11ee-89c1-cf65b380904d.html#tncms-source=Homepage-Top-Stories">WFMZ-TV69 </a>also has a report on these charges, which are hotly disputed by Defendants Lynch and Heilman. </p><p>A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for April 23. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-38167937233471521342024-03-18T00:00:00.018-04:002024-03-18T00:00:00.129-04:00Morning Call Fails To Even Acknowledge LTE Submitted by Prominent Local Attorney<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMUu4K71epiIgNaw53wEp1XIFEefJqYwSkWNvKbEUTdy1GfRESfvjbhyphenhyphenhAKrfN-TlLu_AovLkkdXgYZ2YtQ-pgMXPIvzyJmOg0woBJxSD9hUK97HNJ65Qd-32wwevVatulHXwSmtQ-sI-Vtys3cHb_rYEERLP0QQCAUpRhUwBIPk2t60T-GOd/s640/IMG_1020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMUu4K71epiIgNaw53wEp1XIFEefJqYwSkWNvKbEUTdy1GfRESfvjbhyphenhyphenhAKrfN-TlLu_AovLkkdXgYZ2YtQ-pgMXPIvzyJmOg0woBJxSD9hUK97HNJ65Qd-32wwevVatulHXwSmtQ-sI-Vtys3cHb_rYEERLP0QQCAUpRhUwBIPk2t60T-GOd/s320/IMG_1020.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Bill Malkames is a highly regarded zoning lawyer who practices in Allentown. I've told you before about his love for practically all sports. He met Judge Ed Cahn, himself a Lehigh University basketball hall of famer, in a pick up game. His real athletic prowess was in biathlons and triathlons. In his 50s, he once defeated the Naval Academy's entire team in a biathlon. But that's only a part of his story. Let be give you some more.<p></p><p>The guy is a frickin' genius. So smart that they rushed him through high school. I think he graduated when he was 9. He went to both Muhlenberg and University of Pennsylvania Law School on academic scholarships. At age 90, he still practices law and is still winning cases in Allentown. He reads voraciously, and can quote from poems like Oscar Wilde's Reading Gaol once the Sangria (his favorite vitamin) kicks in. </p><p>Though gifted genetically, he does have some flaws. He's a terrible Hearts player. And despite his intelligence, he's an unabashed conservative. My life's mission is to bring him and his wife back from the Dark Side. </p><p>He recently sent a letter to the editor to The Morning Call, the Lehigh Valley's largest daily. He criticizes the newspaper for its "far left leaning" proclivity in headlines, columns and even cartoon selections. You can read his brief missive below.</p><p>Whether Bill's criticism is correct is irrelevant to me. What disturbs me is that the newspaper has failed to even acknowledge receipt. That reflects a disdain for nearly all the customers it is supposed to serve. The result is fewer subscriptions, ads and reporters to keep you informed. In short, it's bad business. </p><p style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px;"> <a href="https://www.scribd.com/document/714241285/Bill-Malkames-LTE#from_embed" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Bill Malkames LTE on Scribd">Bill Malkames LTE</a> by <a href="https://www.scribd.com/user/4953727/BernieOHare#from_embed" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View BernieOHare's profile on Scribd">BernieOHare</a> on Scribd</p><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.7729220222793488" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_69313" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/714241285/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-NechqFtS6MB3mXL6TiPl" title="Bill Malkames LTE" width="100%"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">(function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })();</script><p></p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-56371782051153319492024-03-15T00:00:00.001-04:002024-03-15T00:00:00.129-04:00Easton Police Chief Carl Scalzo's Full Statement Concerning Sultana Arrest and Her Subsequent Accusations<p>Yesterday, I reported on Wednesday evening's City Council meeting in Easton. I believe it was actually the most significant local government meeting to have taken place over the past several years. Not because body cam video was played. Not because it embarrasses Easton City Council member Taiba Sultana. This meeting stood out to me because Chief Carl Scalzo finally gave a full-throated defense of what local police officers do and how much people like him care. </p><p>Personal integrity means very little to most of us, but it matters a great deal to a good cop. Years ago, I remember interviewing Upper Nazareth Police Chief Alan Siegfried when he ran (unsuccessfully) for Magisterial District Judge in Nazareth. I forget exactly what I asked him, but I'll never forget his steely blue eyes when he told me he'd never lie for anyone. That's a good cop. I've seen that same attitude in most other police officers. </p><p>Of course, a police officer who breaks the law should be vigorously prosecuted. But we've tarnished them all with movements like "Defund the Police!" or Allentown's "Fuck the police!" demonstration, led by a convicted felon on the basis of information that proved to be incorrect. Instead of admonishing this thug, his nonprofit has been showered with state and federal grants from "leaders" who have refused to stand up for the people who actually keep you safe at night.</p><p>Easton Police Chief Carl Scalzo stood up for his own at Wednesday evening's City Council meeting. Mayor Sal Panto and Council member Frank Pintabone did so as well. I think it's important to let you read for yourself what Chief Scalzo had to say as 10 uniformed police officers stood quietly in the back of the room. </p><p style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px;"> <a href="https://www.scribd.com/document/713405489/EPD-Chief-Scalzo-s-Statement-Concerning-Arrest-of-Taiba-Sultana#from_embed" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View EPD Chief Scalzo's Statement Concerning Arrest of Taiba Sultana on Scribd">EPD Chief Scalzo's Statement Concerning Arrest of Taiba Sultana</a> by <a href="https://www.scribd.com/user/4953727/BernieOHare#from_embed" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View BernieOHare's profile on Scribd">BernieOHare</a> on Scribd</p><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.7729220222793488" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_72500" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/713405489/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-K6cmCc6vfeNgPViuTKTW" title="EPD Chief Scalzo's Statement Concerning Arrest of Taiba Sultana" width="100%"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">(function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })();</script>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-46243054724943050432024-03-14T01:51:00.003-04:002024-03-14T09:56:18.752-04:00To Disprove Allegations of Political Bias and Racism, Easton Police Chief Releases Body Cam Footage of Council Member's Arrest<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/4zdAzSjztTM?si=Tb6T1rQTq-nBzRg9" width="480"></iframe><p></p>At last night's Easton City Council meeting, Easton Polic Chief Carl Scalzo responded to a request by Council members Frank Pintabone, Ken Brown and Jim Edinger concerning multiple accusations of racism and political bias made by Council member Taiba Sultana. These came after her arrest in July for assaulting her adult son. He strongly denied Sultana's accusations, noting that his accredited department's mission statement requires officers to treat everyone like members of their own family, regardless of status. He also responded to DA Steve Baratta's assertion, during an ARD (first offender) hearing for Sultana, that there had been "political twisting" and that "political avenues could raise their head." He seemed, however, to be satisfied by later statements, in which Baratta said he would have dismissed the case if he thought it was politically motivated. Chief Scalzo closed by playing the body cam footage of interviews with Sultana, her adult son and other members of the family that clearly demonstrate that police officers acted professionally and treated everyone, both victim and Sultana, with respect. <div><br /></div><div>I physically attended last night's meeting, something I have not done since COVID first reared its ugly head. As I walked into City Hall, I opened the door right into my own ugly head. Either the cataracts in my left eye are playing games with my depth perception or Mayor Sal Panto knew I was coming and spring loaded the door. I was unaware I was bleeding until the meeting was half over. <br /><div><br /></div><div>In prepared remarks, which I will post separately once I obtain them, Chief Scalzo noted his department has been accredited for over 15 years. "That is why I was so upset, was offended, and I was angry when I heard and read the comments posted by Councilwoman Sultana that alleged that her arrest was somehow unfair, unwarranted or based on something other than our officers answering a 9-1-1 call from a young man seeking help."</div><div><br /></div><div>The past several meetings were flooded by pro-Palestinian cease-fire proponents encouraged by Sultana, and they promised to keep coming, too. But last night, there were no flags or people draped in Yassir Arafat scarves. Sultana, however, has apparently learned a trick from her Hamas backers. She used children as human shields. She brought two of her children to the meeting and propped them up behind the dais, even though one of them was whimpering and clearly would have preferred to be anywhere else. Her husband sulked in a hallway outside. Instead of caring for the children, he let Sultana use them as political props.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were no people wearing the Palestinian kaffiyeh, but there were 10 persons in the back of the room dressed in a different kind of uniform. They were Easton police officers and were obviously there in a sign of solidarity with their chief. </div><div><br /></div><div>District Attorney Steve Baratta was also present. He had a suit and tie. </div><div><br /></div><div>"Are you here for the cease-fire resolution?" I asked.</div><div><br /></div><div>"If you want me to be," he responded. </div><div><br /></div><div>Chief Scalzo said he was releasing the body cam footage "to be transparent with the community we serve and to ensure that we have not violated the oath that every single one of us has sworn to uphold." He added that playing the video is "necessary to regain the trust of the citizens of this community. I say this because I genuinely believe that there are real life consequences to making statements such as those made by Council woman Sultana. My officers will have to deal with those negative consequences for the foreseeable future and attempt to convince the public that those statements are invalid."</div><div><br /></div><div>Easton police are required to respond to all complaints of domestic abuse, no matter who is involved. Although parents may physically discipline minor children, any physical violence against an adult child is considered an assault. If there is an assault with physical injury, police are required to make an arrest. </div><div><br /></div><div>Chief Scalzo noted that police obtained statements from the victim and Sultana, took pictures and also obtained statements from other children indicating that she has been violent on several occasions. In one instance, the victim had to seek stitches after an assault. Police take these statements and photos in every case because victims often will later recant their accusations and "in doing so, remain in a potentially dangerous and abusive relationship." </div><div><br /></div><div>In recent years, the ranks of police officers have been <a href="https://apnews.com/article/gun-violence-covid-health-police-2b1f9d8dce1fe3acbb1c5e3910d39e09">dwindling nationwide</a>. This is at least partially the result of calls to "defund the police" or even "fuck the police," which echoed a few short years ago on the streets of Allentown. <b>"This profession and the officers who choose to serve across this country are constantly under attack, </b>" noted Scalzo. "<b>Yet these men and women continuously answer the call when community members need help. They don't ask for praise. They don't ask for appreciation. But I do not believe it fair to accuse these officers of racial bias or political bias when it simply did not occur. It is well past time that government leaders, political leaders and even law enforcement leaders begin to stand up for these officers and not only defend them when they do things the right way but praise them for their willingness to stand in defense for all of those who need help. I can assure you that our officers answered the call for help that afternoon and this department and these officers deserve much better than what they got in this instance."</b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Mayor Sal Panto noted he has the "utmost respect for our law enforcement officers. ... It is the men and women of the police department who have put their lives on the line and made this city a safe city" He noted that when he took office in 2008, the City was infested by the Latin Kings, the Bloods and Crips. Now they're largely gone, thanks to police. In response to Sultana's repeated allegations of political bias, Panto stated, "We are not involved politically. We are not involved at all." </div><div><br /></div><div>Sultana had no response to Chief Scalzo's or Mayor Panto remarks. During the time during which Council members report on what their committees are doing, she had no report. Instead, she reminded everyone that this was the fourth anniversary of the death of<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killing_of_Breonna_Taylor"> Breeana Taylor</a>, who was killed by Kentucky police mistakenly executing a "no-knock" warrant at the wrong address. She called it an example of "systemic racism and police brutality," adding that "we must demand accountability, transparency and meaningful change in our law enforcement system." </div><div><br /></div><div>The last person to speak was Pam Panto, a former Council member and the Mayor's wife. "Ms. Sultana should be more concerned about the violence in her home instead of all the other issues." She also complained about Sultana having two of her children sitting with her behind the dais. "It's not 'Bring your children to work' day. ... The father is here. The children should be with the father." </div><div><br /></div><div>During the meeting, progressive Democratic Lehigh Valley For All (who agree with us) released their slate of endorsed Democratic candidates in the state house races. They recommended Bob Freeman with three stars and gave Sultana a "not recommended." She's the only candidate in any of the state or federal races who specifically is "not recommended." Sultana claims "they have betrayed their own message and turned on communities of color to stoke [sic] their ego and to benefit a longtime do-nothing legislator." Yet in another disputed state house race (Pa House 131), the group endorsed Meriam Sabih, a Pakistani Muslim. </div>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-49838885159123628552024-03-13T00:00:00.004-04:002024-03-13T00:00:00.155-04:00Warren Wants NorCo Council to Support Rent Caps on Manufactured Homes<p>At last week's Northampton County Council meeting, fair housing advocate Jeffrey Zettlemoyer claimed that large-scale developers have entered the mobile or manufactured home market. He noted that when he was employed by Moore Tp, there were 18 mobile home parks. He asserted they are being gobbled up by major developers, who in turn will triple the rent (lot fee). This pushes people with low and moderate incomes out of the Lehigh Valley and into Carbon County, where rents are cheaper. </p><p>Later in the meeting, Council member Jeff Warren noted there is state legislation (<a href="https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2023&sInhttps://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2023&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0861d=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0861">SB 861</a> and <a href="https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2023&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=0805">HB 805</a>) pending that would place a cap on lot fees for manufactured homes. State Rep. Bob Freeman is a sponsor of the House Bill. He said he knows about these increased rents because it happened to his mother. Although the county government has no control over rental fees, he suggested that County Council might wish to consider a resolution supporting the state legislation. "We can't set a cap on these lot fees, but what we can do is send a strong message."</p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-5234955680713633922024-03-13T00:00:00.001-04:002024-03-13T00:00:00.155-04:00NorCo Has Received 21,963 Mail-In Ballots<p>At last week's meeting of Northampton County Council, Executive Lamont McClure reported that 21,963 applications for mail-in ballots have been received. Democrats account for 16,821 and Republicans for 5,142. </p><p>Expect this number to grow. The <a href="https://www.vote.pa.gov/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Mail-and-Absentee-Ballot.aspx">deadline</a> for a mail-in or absentee ballot is April 16, 5 pm. (The application must be received by that date and time. The <a href="https://www.vote.pa.gov/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Mail-and-Absentee-Ballot.aspx">deadline</a> for returning a completed ballot is primary election day, April 23, 8 pm. (The completed ballot must be returned by that date and time). </p><p>You can apply for an <a href="https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/OnlineAbsenteeApplication/#/OnlineAbsenteeBegin">absentee or mail-in ballot online</a>. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-74040330079922150122024-03-12T11:27:00.001-04:002024-03-12T11:27:14.664-04:00Easton Police Chief To Address City Council Wednesday Night<p>Easton City Council member and state house candidate Taiba Sultana was charged over the summer with assaulting her adult at the family residence. Last week, she was admitted into a special program for first offenders called Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). Under this program, charges will be dismissed and possibly expunged if the participant complies with all conditions. Her admission into this program is in no way unusual. But it was disheartening to hear DA Steve Baratta imply that the sole reason Sultana was prosecuted was because of her fractious relationship with practically everyone in city government. For her part, Sultana has claimed, for the 7,654th time, that she is a victim of black and brown prejudice, religious intolerance and misogyny. This could explain why Easton Police Chief Carl Scalzo will be making a presentation to Easton City Council at their Wednesday evening meeting. </p><p>Easton PD is one of <a href="https://www.pccd.pa.gov/criminaljustice/advisory_boards/Pages/Accredited-PA-Law-Enforcement-Agencies.aspx">12 accredited police departments</a> in Northampton County. Yet Northampton County's top prosecutor has suggested that it allowed politics to play a role in a charging decision. Since 1790, <a href="https://www.pietragallo.com/publications/simon-says-protect-my-reputation-understanding-pennsylvanias-constitutional-right-to-reputation/#:~:text=Courts%20in%20the%20Commonwealth%20have%20since%20construed%20Pennsylvania%E2%80%99s,whose%20reputation%20is%20threatened%20by%20a%20state-sanctioned%20report.">Pennsylvania's Constitution </a>has placed reputation in the same class as other basic rights like life, liberty and property. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-55527977353406897572024-03-12T00:00:00.005-04:002024-03-12T11:25:23.017-04:00My Eyesight Is Slowing Me Down<p>I usually spend a minimum of two hour outdoors daily. The first thing I do when I wake up is do a slow jog for about five minutes. This Winter, I've been able to ride outdoors from time to time, and I walk and run with a seeing-eye dog pretty much every day. It's good for both of us. But over the past few weeks, my left eye has been irritating me and I find it necessary to place a finger over it if I want to see clearly. It has reached the point where it interferes with both reading and writing. </p><p>I'll be seeing an eye doctor today to find out what's going on. I believe the raw weather over the Winter probably got to me. Over the past several days, I've purposely cut back a little on writing. I expect to be fully operational very soon. After all, I only need one eye. </p><p>Updated 11:30 am: It turns out I have cataracts in both eyes. My left eye is completely shot, but my right eye is apparently pretty good. It was 20-25 even with cataracts. This has nothing to do with walking in high wind and everything to do with getting older. I've been referred to someone who will take care of it and will try to get a head transplant while I'm at it. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-14808827810666001812024-03-11T00:00:00.001-04:002024-03-11T00:00:00.141-04:00Gracedale Drops to Two Stars As Result of Filing Error<p>Northampton County Council's Human Services Committee was updated last week about Gracedale, the county-owned nursing home. Administrator Jennifer Stewart King was unavailable, so the report was provided instead by Human Services Director Sue Wandalowski. She painted a rather rosy picture, saying that the facility is bringing in more workers than it is losing, although reliance on nursing provided by outside agencies is still too high. She reported that a day care for employees still needs to be outfitted and licensed. Census stands at 411, and the county is looking to increase that number to 425-450. She finally stated that a new Director of Nursing is scheduled to start in April. </p><p>What Wandalowski failed to address is the latest Medicare and Medicaid rating of the home, which was <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/details/nursing-home/395476?city=Nazareth&state=PA&zipcode=18064">updated online </a>on February 28. Gracedale had been listed as average (three stars), but that has dropped again to below average (two stars), mostly because of staffing. </p><p>According to what is reported online, Gracedale's nursing care for each resident stands at just 2 hours and 45 minutes a day, over an hour below the three hour 47 minute state and national average. </p><p>Contacted over the weekend, Executive Lamont McClure indicated the online report is a mistake. He said the PPD (nursing care per patient per day) is actually 3.7. He indicated that an error was made when the report was filed with the Medicare and Medicaid Center.</p><p>A similar error last year resulted in Gracedale having a one-star rating, and the nursing home had to wait for the next round of ratings to clear it up. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-38096096705599930292024-03-09T12:05:00.002-05:002024-03-09T12:05:37.118-05:00Biden-Harris Campaign Ad Touts Success of His Administration<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/R6e4ruziZBI?si=3CGNeszv_hKj4kN1" style="background-image: url(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/R6e4ruziZBI/hqdefault.jpg);" width="480"></iframe><p></p><p>"Donald Trump believed the job of the President is to take care of Donald Trump. I believe the job of the President is to fight for you, the people."Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-10149057657056902222024-03-08T00:00:00.001-05:002024-03-08T00:00:00.285-05:00Biden Delivers Stirring SOTU<p>It couldn't have come at a better time. I thought President Joe Biden's last SOTU was excellent, particularly the way he played rope-a-dope with Republicans about cuts to social security. His speech last night, delivered in the midst of two regional conflicts that could easily spiral out of control and a time when his poll numbers have sometimes been behind those of a wannabe dictator currently facing both state and federal prosecutions, was the best I've ever heard him make. He made me proud that I am still a Democrat. He was feisty. A man whose every verbal literal slip is the subject of Fox News headlines demonstrated that he was completely willing to go off script and spar with jeering Republicans over reasonable proposals like increasing taxes on the rich to cut our deficit. "I know you know how to read," he mocked them at one point. At another, he chastised them for tying everything to a border crisis. "We can fight about fixing the border or we can fix it," he declared. Is one strong speech that reminding me that Biden is an old school Democrat, and that there really are serious policy differences between the parties, enough to make me want to vote for him? It might.</p><p>For at least the past year, I've sworn up and down that I am unwilling to vote for either Biden or Trump this year. I am appalled that these two are the best alternatives a country of 334 million can produce. In fact, they aren't. There are clearly better Democrats than Biden and better Republicans than Trump. Our failure to produce such a candidate tells me our democratic form of government is in trouble, and we need to take a close look at how we select future leaders. But that's likely going to take a few years and younger voters. </p><p>What has bothered me the most about Biden is his age. He moves about one inch an hour, unless he's falling off his bike. I have serious doubts whether he will survive a second term. He addressed age last night, and I thought I'd include what he said. </p><p><span style="color: red;">I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while.<br />And when you get to my age certain things become clearer than ever before.<br />I know the American story.<br />Again and again I’ve seen the contest between competing forces in the battle for the soul of our nation.<br />Between those who want to pull America back to the past and those who want to move America into the future.<br />My lifetime has taught me to embrace freedom and democracy.<br />A future based on the core values that have defined America.<br />Honesty. Decency. Dignity. Equality.<br />To respect everyone. To give everyone a fair shot. To give hate no safe harbor.<br /><b>Now some other people my age see a different story.<br />An American story of resentment, revenge, and retribution.<br />That’s not me</b>.<br />I was born amid World War II when America stood for freedom in the world.<br />I grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania and Claymont, Delaware among working people who built this country.<br />I watched in horror as two of my heroes, Dr. King and Bobby Kennedy, were assassinated and their legacies inspired me to pursue a career in service.<br />A public defender, county councilman, elected United States Senator at 29, then Vice President, to our first Black President, now President, with our first woman Vice President.<br />In my career I’ve been told I’m too young and I’m too old.<br />Whether young or old, I’ve always known what endures.<br />Our North Star.<br />The very idea of America, that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout our lives.<br />We’ve never fully lived up to that idea, but we’ve never walked away from it either.<br />And I won’t walk away from it now.<br /><b>My fellow Americans the issue facing our nation isn’t how old we are it’s how old our ideas are?<br />Hate, anger, revenge, retribution are among the oldest of ideas.<br />
But you can’t lead America with ancient ideas that only take us back.</b><br />To lead America, the land of possibilities, you need a vision for the future of what America can and should be.<br />Tonight you’ve heard mine.<br />I see a future where we defend democracy not diminish it.<br />I see a future where we restore the right to choose and protect other freedoms not take them away.<br />I see a future where the middle class finally has a fair shot and the wealthy finally have to pay their fair share in taxes.<br />I see a future where we save the planet from the climate crisis and our country from gun violence.<br />Above all, I see a future for all Americans!<br />I see a country for all Americans!<br />And I will always be a president for all Americans!<br />Because I believe in America!<br />I believe in you the American people.<br />You’re the reason I’ve never been more optimistic about our future!<br />So let’s build that future together!<br />Let’s remember who we are!<br />We are the United States of America.<br />There is nothing beyond our capacity when we act together!</span><br /></p>
Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com91tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-86062482656434065372024-03-07T00:00:00.014-05:002024-03-07T00:00:00.140-05:00PA 7th Congressional District Republican Candidates Debate<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/LxotTFtVj7M?si=AjD0MnmkU8HQhf9X" width="480"></iframe><p></p><p>Above is a Youtube video of Monday night's debate among three Republicans seeking their party's nomination to take on incumbent Democrat Susan Wild in this year's race for Pa.'s 7th Congressional District. They are Kevin Dellicker, Ryan Mackenzie and Maria Montero. The debate was broadcasted by BRC13, located in Lehighton. Here's what was discussed:</p><p>How Are You Suited to Represent Carbon County, which was added to Pa.-7? - Dellicker said he spent a great deal of time in Carbon County, white-water rafting in Jim Thorpe and skiing at Blue Mountain. His wife teaches school in Palmerton and many of his relatives live there. Montero grew up in Summit Hill and stated nobody understands more than she does what is needed in Carbon. "We are looking for good jobs, great paying jobs." She would achieve that by cutting taxes and eliminating regulations. Mackenzie said the problems of Carbon County are similar to those in the rest of the district, "a wide open border" and out-of -control spending in D.C. </p><p><b>How would You Encourage Tourism, Especially in the Poconos?</b> - Montero said she has been in the hospitality and tourism industry over the past eight years. She said that she would try to make sure there is clean air and clean water for the Pocono parks. Mackenzie said tourism is something to embrace and promoted it as a member of the state house. Dellicker said there's no place he'd rather be than the Pa.7th, and people should know how wonderful and diverse it is. </p><p><b>How would You Improve Public Transit, especially for Seniors? </b>- Mackenzie said his top priority would be ensuring that social security and Medicare is protected. "We should not be taking those benefits away from them," he noted. Dellicker observed that public transportation is a "real challenge" for seniors in rural areas like Carbin County. But he stressed that runaway inflation is impacting seniors even more. He will cut spending to get inflation under control. Montero believes in limited government, "but the one thing we should do well is infrastructure. That means transportation and good roads.</p><p><b>How Will You Help Veterans Avoid Homelessness and Ensure them a Good Quality of Life?</b> - Dellicker started by pointing out that he spent 28 years in the military. He and his wife actually wrote as book (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Twenty-Percent-Soldiers-Secret-National-Guard/dp/1646630904">20% Soldiers</a>) about the reserve component of the military. He vowed to "tackle those issues" for "people who served our country so nobly." Montero has spent three years with a nonprofit whose goal is reducing homelessness. She complained we have spent $100 million in Ukraine, but she wants to spend that money here. MacKenzie stressed that veterans served us when on active duty so the government should serve them with things like special office hours. He also authored the "Start Up For Soldiers" program to help vets start businesses. </p><p><b>Are Women's Rights Under Attack?</b> - Montero pointed out that she's the only candidate who was ever pregnant and who ever delivered a baby, she believes women's health rights are something Americans can ever ignore. "Women deserve to have real choice." She lamented that programs like <a href="https://www.realalternatives.org/">Real Alternatives,</a> which help women who want to choose life, are being cut. Mackenzie stated he has consistently voted pro life in the state house and to reduce the number of abortions performed in Pa. "It sounds like we're all in agreement," added Dellicker. He said it's a"crazy" to cut thiose programs and then divert the funds to abortion centers. "Thise are the sort of divisive issues we don't need right now ... ."</p><p><b>Top Priority if Elected? </b>- "Building the wall and securing our border," responded Mackenzie. Dellicker wants to get on the Armed Services Committee and fix our military so we can have "true peace through strength." Montero's top prioority is to "secure our borders and protect Americans."</p><p><b>What Can You Do to Provide Quality Education?</b> - Montero believes there should be more technical schools because "not everybody needs to go to college." She also wants to empower parents with a <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/house/3917113-parents-bill-of-rights-5-things-to-know-about-the-house-gops-legislation/">Parents' Bill of Rights</a>, which was opposed by Susan Wild. Mackenzie believes the feral government should not be expected to solve "our education problems here at home." He does support and has voted for a Parents Bill of Rights on a state and local level. "I'll take it a step further," added Dellicker. "I don't think the federal government should be funding education at all."</p><p><b>How Will You Support Local Business?</b> - MacKenzie has a three-pronged approach: reduce taxes; reduce and streamline regulations; and more workforce training. "If you don't run a small business, I don't think you can possibly understand the burdens that small businesses are under," added Dellicker. Montero agrees with cutting taxes and regulations, but added that the production of natural gas should be encouraged. </p><p><b>Will You Vote Independently or Along Party Lines? </b>- Dellicker pledged independence "because I am not a career politician. ... I don't need to go to Congress to enhance my career or my livelihood." Montero would ask herself two questions before voting on an issue: is it constitutional; and is it in America's best interests? Mackenzie said government is controlled by a Uniparty and he has voted against his party on things like the gas tax. </p><p><b>Should There Be Age Limits on Those in Office?</b> - Mackenzie opposes an "artificial age limit" on elected officials. Dellicker joked that he is the oldest of the three candidates and would fight any attempt to remove him from the ballot. Montero would support term limits as opposed to an age barrier. </p><p><b>Do You Support Gun Controls?</b> - Dellicker dodged the question, saying only that he is a "law and order" candidate. He added he is a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment. Montero and Mackenzie dodged as well. </p><p><b>Susan Wild's Comment that Carbon County is Drinking the Trump Kool-Aid?</b> "Susan Wild does not respect her constituents," observed Montero. MacKenzie would like to serve Wild kool-aid at her retirement party in November. "What she said is disrespectful to every person sitting in this room and every person watching at home." Dellicker cautioned it will take more than press stunts to defeat Wild. "Remember, she did this two years ago, too."</p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-50416758629109540122024-03-06T12:11:00.002-05:002024-03-06T12:12:56.874-05:00Sultana Gets ARD, DA Baratta Claims Prosecution "Twisted Around" By Friction Between Easton Mayor and Sultana <p>According to <a href="https://www.lehighvalleynews.com/easton/easton-city-councilwoman-gets-ard-in-assault-case-that-da-says-was-influenced-by-politics">Lehigh Valley News</a> and as expected, domestic assault charges filed against Easton City Council member and state house candidate Taiba Sultana were resolved by her admission into a special program for first offenders today called Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). President Judge Craig Dally approved District Attorney Steven Baratta's application to admit her into the program. What was unexpected was Baratta's claim that politics played a role in the decision to prosecute her.</p><p>According to the news account (I was not there), Baratta represented to the court that the case was "twisted" around a bit because of "political" considerations. He referenced friction between Sultana and Easton Mayor Sal Panto. Baratta also lashed out at his predecessor, Terry Houck, for refusing to approve the application. He went on to claim that he received a letter from Sultana's son, disputing much of what police allege. </p><p>Former DA Terry Houck strongly disputes Baratta's narrative as "absolutely not true. Before I left in December, I approved her application." He also denied that politics played any role in this prosecution. "The facts supported her arrest and they support ARD." </p><p>Houck went on to say that he was never contacted by Easton Mayor Sal Panto concerning the case. "There was absolutely no influence." </p><p>He also questioned why Sultana was admitted into ARD if there was no crime. "If there wasn't a crime, why are you approving it for ARD?" he asked. </p><p>Baratta's statements, on the record, undermine the integrity of both Easton police and its Mayor, and apparently with no basis in fact. </p>
Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com71tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-53706407814317514222024-03-06T00:00:00.008-05:002024-03-06T10:09:36.482-05:00UPDATED: LV Jewish Federation President Addresses Ceasefire Resolution in Bethlehem<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafqe5zgX8DINctVT83SzOVvriJckEjjv8qkPmVgK1pr38GEfX28Tf7I666x2RMTHNFsNAMsHESMOcOCWIEY8_QJw5U1XmHaxWm4oC0g_EqWKJa4yOR6y6XBMICeW8cKiP6xblfp82gD4d5uOZ-kO1hX8f-AI63kuDz8EoOE038uklMe-wv38Q/s144/robert%20wax.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="144" data-original-width="144" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafqe5zgX8DINctVT83SzOVvriJckEjjv8qkPmVgK1pr38GEfX28Tf7I666x2RMTHNFsNAMsHESMOcOCWIEY8_QJw5U1XmHaxWm4oC0g_EqWKJa4yOR6y6XBMICeW8cKiP6xblfp82gD4d5uOZ-kO1hX8f-AI63kuDz8EoOE038uklMe-wv38Q/s1600/robert%20wax.jpg" width="144" /></a></div>As I write this story, people were still addressing Bethlehem City Council last night concerning the Israeli conflict in Gaza. It was standing room only, with at least 200 people filling the chamber and spilling out into the hallways. Just two weeks before, City Council rejected a one-sentence ceasefire resolution. They had promised to adopt a resolution of some sort at last night's meeting. But when the agenda for last night's meeting was published, no resolution of any sort was listed. This left many pro-Palestinian proponents feeling betrayed. Council President Michael Colon explained this failure by telling the audience that, instead of adopting a resolution, City Council opted to send a letter to federal officials expressing a desire for peace. <p></p><p>Colon told several audience members that Council would violate the Sunshine Act by adopting a ceasefire resolution that it failed to include in its published agenda. That's certainly true. But guess what? Council already violated the Sunshine Act when it decided, behind closed doors, to send a letter to federal elected officials. That should have been voted on in public and after deliberation, just as Easton City Council did when it recently adopted a resolution calling for peace. Bethlehem City Council did more than violate the Sunshine Act. It demonstrated that it is pretty much gutless and unwilling to discuss its decisions publicly. I expect this kind of cowardice from Colon, but am disappointed to see it in other members of City Council. </p><p>Most of the people I heard speak wanted a cease-fire resolution, but the person who impressed me most was Robert Wax, President of the Lehigh Valley Jewish Federation. He represents 8,000 Jews in the Lehigh Valley. What he said was instructive, and I thought I'd share his remarks.</p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"The brutal atrocities on October 7 awakened many to the depravity of Hamas, the ruthless terrorist organization controlling Gaza with the stated goal of destroying Israel and murdering all Jews who live there. Over 1200 Israelis were savagely murdered. babies, yes, were burned and decapitated. Women, yes, were raped and subjected to sexual torture. And 240 Israelis, Americans and others were taken hostage. This was the most brutal attack on Jews since the Holocaust. And 140 hostages remain in captivity tonight. It's worth noting that this Council did not pass a resolution or take a position condemning those actions. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"While the issues are complex, the following facts, yes, facts, are intended to provide you with a deeper understanding of the conflict. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"First, what does Hamas want from Israel?</b> Hamas wants to take the land "from the river to the sea." For those unfamiliar with this phrase, it means Hamas seeks all the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, In other words, all of Israel. This is not a compromise position. Unfortunately, over the past few months, protesters have continually repeated this threat from Hamas across the United States and even in Bethlehem and on our local college campuses. Some knowingly, and others unknowingly, calling for an entire country and its people to be wiped off the face of the earth.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"Has Israel offered land in exchange for peace?</b> Yes, many times. The Palestinian Authority, formerly known as the PLO international terrorist organization and neighboring Arab countries, rejected nine peace plans between 1947 and 2019. Each of these peace plans would have created a state for the Palestinian people. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"Does Israel occupy Gaza?</b> No, Israel does not occupy Gaza. In 2005, Israel unilaterally evacuated the Gaza strip. Regrettably, the Palestinians elected Hamas into power, and Hamas began diverting humanitarian aid to support its military operations and began its reign of terror, including the October 7 massacre. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"So what is the role of the United Nations and the United States? </b> The UN, through its refugee agency, has allowed humanitarian aid to be diverted to Hamas and other terrorist organizations, and employees of the UN participated in the attacks on Israeli citizens on October 7. The Palestinian Authority and Hamas pay families of terrorists who murder innocent Israelis a success bonus and a monthly stipend in perpetuity. In 2018, Congress passed the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taylor_Force_Act">Taylor Force Act</a>, which reduces economic aid to the Palestinian Authority until it ends this policy, which continues today. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"Who else funds Hamas? </b>Iran. Iran has sent hundreds of millions of dollars to Hamas and provides military training to the terrorists. How would residents of Bethlehem feel if a terrorist organization funded by Iran launched thousands of missiles at our families from UN sponsored schools and hospitals just a few miles away? Would we be calling for a cease fire or would we be asking our government to protect us from the terrorists targeting our homes? </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"And how does the Israeli Defense Force respond?</b> The IDF is more cautious about mitigating civilian casualties than any other military in modern times. The IDF uses efforts, where possible, to warn civilians before bombing in populated areas. Hamas, unfortunately, hides weapons and terrorist command centers in schools and hospitals, using human civilian shields to protect its terrorist activities. It takes civilians as hostages. It launches thousands of rockets on civilian populations in Israel.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"Is Israel engaged in ethnic cleansing or committing genocide against the Palestinians? </b>Absolutely not. Between 1948 and 2023, the combined Jewish population in Arab countries surrounding Israel dropped from 985,000 Jews to 12,000 Jews, representing a decrease of 99% and leaving Israel - a country the size of New Jersey - as the sole safe haven for Jews in the entire Middle East. During the same period, the number of Arabs in Israel increased from 156,000 to 2.1 million, and the number of Arabs living in Gaza increased from 80,000 to 2 million. So claims of ethnic cleansing or genocide are patently untrue. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>"Have other municipalities passed ceasefire resolutions?</b> 99.7% of municipalities in America have not done so, and neither should Bethlehem City Council. </span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"With all due respect, while everyone wants peace in the Middle East, these issues are clearly beyond the scope and jurisdiction of this body. Council has a lengthy agenda tonight, and it should remain focused on those items. If members of the crowd are unhappy with our federal government's position on the conflict in Gaza, they should contact our federal legislators and stop creating distractions at municipal meetings so that you can complete the work you were elected to perform." </span></p><p><span><b>10:15 AM UPDATE: </b>After five hours, the meeting ended in chaos. The City Council Solicitor began to discuss policy instead of the law. People continued speaking and then began chanting, "Cease Fire Now! Cease Fire Now!" Colon, who has spent most of his political career looking for a spine, failed to find one last night. The police chief approached the dais and said the meeting had to end. Eventually, the meeting adjourned without conducting any City business as audience members shouted "Stay!"</span></p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-17839583071131417562024-03-06T00:00:00.005-05:002024-03-06T00:00:00.265-05:00Mackenzie Responds to Dellicker Attack in LV Congressional Race<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGer1ReCCH3PzAygvGNLzXq41EwyvtKfQFkXU1RjSjdOGfex0-Z2LtI-_cXoCTIK-oLjcS7PZl1DAA3JLs6mhoVRvJ6-NxYnJMy_ftoy8eUTcu2KQpvj0eigugpk1G312COn2SJUnJXgR0HSrFEv2krqc55TzayHKJkMpkb0iE4EMMFznm3kjI/s1170/ryan%20mackenzie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1170" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGer1ReCCH3PzAygvGNLzXq41EwyvtKfQFkXU1RjSjdOGfex0-Z2LtI-_cXoCTIK-oLjcS7PZl1DAA3JLs6mhoVRvJ6-NxYnJMy_ftoy8eUTcu2KQpvj0eigugpk1G312COn2SJUnJXgR0HSrFEv2krqc55TzayHKJkMpkb0iE4EMMFznm3kjI/s320/ryan%20mackenzie.png" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/03/dellicker-takes-aim-at-mackenzie-in-gop.html">On Monday,</a> I published complaints that GOP Congressional candidate Kevin Dellicker recently made about primary opponent Ryan Mackenzie. Below is Mackenzie's response:<p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; outline: none !important;"><span style="background-color: transparent; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">If the race for Congress in PA-7 weren’t so serious, I would find Kevin Dellicker’s rant of an email last week to be completely laughable. But his statements are either misleading or intentionally deceptive.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;">There is no doubt that I have </span><span style="font-weight: 700; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;">very real policy disagreements</span><span style="outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"> with Mr. Dellicker. As an American, I’m concerned by the positions he took during this campaign and his failed run for Congress in 2022. </span></span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Let’s start with Mr. Dellicker’s complaint about the endorsement I received from Americans For Prosperity (AFP). It seems Mr. Dellicker forgot that he sought AFP’s endorsement. Now that they rejected him, it appears he’s scorned and has chosen to attack AFP directly. Mr. Dellicker also did not mention that I have been endorsed by GOPAC, a conservative organization that has been supportive of President Trump.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">The fact that AFP and GOPAC have both endorsed me and my proven, conservative record in the PA House shows I am the only candidate who can unite different factions of today’s Republican Party and am best situated to solidify the support of Republicans through the Primary and General Election.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Mr. Dellicker continued his rant by attacking me for being a dedicated public servant without a military background. It’s a disingenuous attack for him to make for two reasons.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;">First, let’s look at Mr. Dellicker’s own words from his book: “Don’t get me wrong. There are plenty of great ways to serve your country besides the armed forces… I have no patience for misguided veterans who disparage, disrespect, or denigrate non-veterans just because they never wore the uniform.” This is evidence of an astonishing show of hypocrisy on his part because disparaging, disrespecting, and denigrating my proven and effective service as a conservative State Representative is </span><span style="font-weight: 700; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;">exactly</span><span style="outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"> what Mr. Dellicker is doing.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Second, let’s look at Mr. Dellicker’s record:</span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none !important;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; list-style-type: disc; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; outline: none !important;"><span style="background-color: transparent; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Dellicker is on his 3rd attempt at getting into elected office since 2014</span></span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; list-style-type: disc; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; outline: none !important;"><span style="background-color: transparent; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Dellicker spent the first 9 years of his career in government as a staff member to liberal Republicans in New York and Pennsylvania</span></span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; list-style-type: disc; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; outline: none !important;"><span style="background-color: transparent; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Dellicker claims to be an outsider, but he served as the “Chief Economic Policy Advisor” to the Ridge Administration in Harrisburg that gave the teachers’ union a 25% pension increase, costing taxpayers billions of dollars and driving school property taxes through the roof</span></span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; list-style-type: disc; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; outline: none !important;"><span style="background-color: transparent; outline: none !important; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">For the last 19 years, Dellicker’s consulting business has generated revenue from taxpayer-funded contracts from school districts and local governments (as per his own candidate financial disclosure) - making him a career government contractor personally profiting off taxpayers </span></span></p></li></ul><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">In contrast, as a representative elected by my neighbors, I have never voted for a tax increase. I also stood up to my own party to vote no to a gas tax increase, passed important legislation to address illegal immigration, voted for election security measures like Voter ID, and - yes - reformed the pension system that Dellicker broke. Clearly, my neighbors vote based on the belief that what someone does while working on their behalf is what’s most important. On this front, Mr. Dellicker’s record can only be called a failure.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Finally, I take deep offense to Mr. Dellicker twisting my significant differences with him over foreign policy into somehow saying that I am disparaging veterans. I respect the contributions of our veterans and military service members - like my father and grandfather - and Mr. Dellicker. That is why I have a record of supporting veterans’ issues as a legislator, holding special “veterans services hours” in my offices, and authoring the law that created “Startups for Soldiers” - a successful program that has helped thousands of veterans across Pennsylvania as they start new businesses here in the state.</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">What are our differences on foreign policy? I am opposed to launching new forever wars. I support America First policy positions. By contrast, Mr. Dellicker routinely promotes new U.S. military engagements as a reaction to simmering tensions around the world. In the case of additional funding for the war in Ukraine, Mr. Dellicker has said, repeatedly and on-the-record, that he is supportive, while I am opposed.</span></p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-48414820433208074742024-03-06T00:00:00.001-05:002024-03-06T00:00:00.265-05:00NorCo Adds Three New Drop Box Locations For Presidential Election<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>From NorCo Elections Office:</b> <span style="background-color: white;">The Northampton County Elections Office announced at today’s Election Commission meeting that three new secure ballot drop-off boxes will be installed in new areas of the County, bringing the total number of drop-off boxes to seven.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: #e41212; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">NEW LOCATION: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">Washington Township Municipal Building </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">(Main Entrance Vestibule)</span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">: 1021 Washington Blvd., Bangor, PA 18013</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #e41212; outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: #e41212; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">NEW LOCATION: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">East Allen Township Municipal Building </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">(Main Lobby): </span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">5344 Nor Bath Blvd., Northampton, PA 18067</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="color: #e41212; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">NEW LOCATION: </span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">NCC Fowler Family Southside Center </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">(Main Lobby): </span><span style="font-weight: normal; outline: none !important;">511 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, PA 18015</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Northampton County Courthouse</span><span style="font-style: italic; outline: none !important;"> (Rotunda)</span><span style="outline: none !important;">: 669 Washington St., Easton, PA 18042</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Northampton County Human Services Building </span><span style="font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">(Main Entrance Vestibule)</span><span style="outline: none !important;">: 2801 Emrick Blvd., Bethlehem, PA 18020</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Northampton County 911 Center </span><span style="font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">(Main Entrance Vestibule)</span><span style="outline: none !important;">: 100 Gracedale Ave., Nazareth, PA 18064</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="outline: none !important;" /></span></p><ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Bethlehem City Hall </span><span style="font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">(Main Lobby)</span><span style="outline: none !important;">: 10 E. Church St., Bethlehem, PA 18018</span></span></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="outline: none !important;">Accessing drop-off boxes does not require going through security at any location. Applications for mail-in and civilian absentee ballots are available in the Election’s Office or at this link: </span><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001CXxbOXToE_Ok4TQi_npoIK7L2iru8yGLLY5sD2dbPo45UKPM0wv_91W7ExuwU0y1hpjA2YSN2FZUeTChZilvHdkpwb9Wi3-f78twCnV9QT9HarJ7zezJdrPpmw0oJaymipbBiGZYSDcSTRmlhwVcSB_HHQD6-RAZS5Fi_x5N-43Z8jQqNp65i48YhLTS85vKK4MFTVp8nl2CEXwg6Gs5kt2yVWR0BKv-Wka8-Uf0hh0=&c=uXm5BzVgN4BkaiRqZAt3EBY18tmpTVOobsC7g7D1m3kqKDwdM2UuEg==&ch=fB8q10cwS91wP2rD7OrecZjVBbs1NQ4MJ_gcExiXbcH4DtZdCdQJ4A==" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #1b58bb; font-weight: bold; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/OnlineAbsenteeApplication/#/OnlineAbsenteeBegin</a><span style="color: #1b58bb; outline: none !important;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0px;"><span style="outline: none !important;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The last day to apply for a mail-in or civilian absentee ballot is Tuesday, April 16th. All seven drop boxes will be available in the coming weeks for Northampton County voters.</span></span></p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-79260100840369740722024-03-05T08:20:00.001-05:002024-03-05T08:20:17.151-05:00Gaza Supporters to March on Bethlehem City Hall For Cease-Fire<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuM6At4BVEWR1YDuRHIqNjHUjXLeI8SqJlNCktLJeQPHtosG6wftZcbk4-3mvfzCKBVID0KsDijNPYVa8aeyo62MLjXY30xoyC0S0ca_vU7VH3aNVWrUq10-pbOzsstasGiWsckU_vcZJFrvg3Bgwp8TIOl23ckX8mtqqNc1K-6izJvHz2z0B/s720/Ceasefire%20March.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="556" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuM6At4BVEWR1YDuRHIqNjHUjXLeI8SqJlNCktLJeQPHtosG6wftZcbk4-3mvfzCKBVID0KsDijNPYVa8aeyo62MLjXY30xoyC0S0ca_vU7VH3aNVWrUq10-pbOzsstasGiWsckU_vcZJFrvg3Bgwp8TIOl23ckX8mtqqNc1K-6izJvHz2z0B/w309-h400/Ceasefire%20March.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><br />According to <a href="https://lvleftview.substack.com/p/onward-to-ceasefire" target="_blank">Substack site Lehigh Valley Left View</a>, Gaza supporters plan to march on Bethlehem City Hall tonight to demand their City Council adopt a cease fire resolution of the Israeli-Gaza conflict. <p></p>"At Bethlehem city council’s last meeting (on 2/20), dozens of speakers pleaded with the city council to pass a ceasefire resolution. Councilperson Bryan Callahan pushed for an immediate vote on a simple, one-sentence resolution, but council decided to take two weeks to articulate a longer, formal document, promising such a resolution would manifest on the agenda for this week’s March 5th meeting. With the deadline for altering that agenda having passed at the end of last week, <i>we now know the city council has broken their promise</i>. This makes the event Tuesday all the more important." <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://lvleftview.substack.com/p/there-is-no-democracy-in-the-lehigh">In another story</a>, this group contends that democracy is nonexistent in the Lehigh Valley because the democratically elected representatives of the people in Allentown and Easton refused (1) a proposal to send social workers instead of police in response to 9-1-1 calls; and (2) a ceasefire resolution in Gaza. </div><p>"As bitter a pill as it may be, the reality is that we do not engage in politics on a terrain where the majority wins, where social benefit is the goal, or even a terrain where debate is encouraged. Instead, the wealthy (more precisely, the capitalists) consolidate power, organize society for their narrow benefit, and discourage discussion."</p><p>If they want to see democracy denied, they should try living in any Middle Eastern country outside of Israel. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-53387123201483222392024-03-05T00:00:00.001-05:002024-03-05T00:00:00.130-05:00Lower Saucon Train Derailment Demonstrates Why Hazard Mitigation Plans Are Needed <p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/east-westbound-tracks-reopen-after-3-norfolk-southern-trains-crashed-derailed-near-bethlehem/ar-BB1jksiz">Over the weekend</a>, three Norfolk Southern trains crashed and derailed in Lower Saucon Township. At least one locomotive and empty propane tanks spilled into the Lehigh River, along with about 50 gallons of diesel fuel and plastic pellets. This accident demonstrates quite clearly why the Lehigh Valley has a <a href="https://ncem-pa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-Lehigh-Valley-HMP.pdf">Hazard Mitigation Plan </a>and why it is updated every five years. A large part of the reason why first responders were on the scene so quickly is because of that plan. </p><p>Last week, I wrote about both the <a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/02/what-are-lehigh-valleys-natural-hazards.html">natural </a>and <a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/03/what-are-lehigh-valleys-man-made-hazards.html">manmade </a>hazards considered. The chief concern about this derailment was the release of environmental hazards or an explosion. Fortunately, nothing like that happened. ... This time. </p><p>According to the draft mitigation plan, "Many hazardous materials incidents occur during transportation. The Lehigh Valley contains a network
of roadways linking large population centers within the region, and freight carries frequently utilize this network. Some of the freight transported to and through the Lehigh Valley is considered hazardous, and
the presence of hazardous materials on the roads and railways inevitably creates the potential for these
materials to be involved in transportation accidents." The sole exception is I-476, from Route 22 north to
Route 209 in Carbon County, where most hazardous materials are banned. </p><p>Since 1971, there have been 2,321 "transportation incidents" involving hazardous materials. Most of them occur on our highways. Only 15% involve rail transportation. </p><p>Possible health risks from environment hazards include thermal harm caused by extreme temperatures; radiological harm; asphyxiation; chemical injuries and exposure to biological toxins. Usually, the locations closest to the accident are at greatest risk. That can changes depending on the weather, proximity and first responders and their training. </p><p>After the East Palestine train derailment leading to the release of vinyl chloride, Executive Lamont McClure <a href="https://penncapital-star.com/transportation-infrastructure/three-trains-derail-along-lehigh-river/">directed emergency management to conduct three training sessions</a> to deal with the release of hazardous material. It appears that they had this incident contained pretty quiikly, which is a credit to EMS and McClure's leadership. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-26855445307625475472024-03-04T00:00:00.003-05:002024-03-04T00:00:00.126-05:00Will Bethlehem City Council Take Stance on Israeli-Gaza Conflict?<div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: inherit;">When Bethlehem City Council last met, they were besieged by a rowdy audience demanding that they adopt a cease-fire resolution concerning the Israeli-Gaza conflict. They just happened to have a draft, too. Council member Bryan Callahan wanted to adopt it on the spot. But as Council member Colleen Laird pointed out, they needed time to consider the matter. Just as members of the audience had time to draft their resolution, City Council should be extended that same courtesy. So no resolution was adopted. As of late last night, no such resolution appears <a href="https://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/getattachment/Calendar/Meetings/2024/City-Council-Meetings/326/00-Agenda-030524-(1).pdf.aspx?lang=en-US">on the agenda</a> for Tuesday night's meeting. </span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/02/easton-city-council-rejects-cease-fire.html">Last week</a>, Easton City Council rejected a cease-fire resolution sponsored by Council member Taiba Sultana in a 6-1 vote. But the adopted a general resolution calling for peace, with only Sultana in opposition. </span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #1d2228;"><span style="background-color: white;">Members of the Bethlehem and Easton audiences were festooned in the<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keffiyeh"> kaffiyehs</a> in some attempt to show solidarity with Palestinians. Ironically, that garment was worn by Bedouins in rural areas to protect themselves from the sun. More urban Palestinians traditionally wore a fez, but I guess that's less fashionable. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #1d2228;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #1d2228;"><span style="background-color: white;">My brother Mike lives in Bethlehem. I'm rather secular, but he's heavily involved in his church. He has written to City Council and has suggested that a day of prayer and reflection might be the best approach. I doubt a City Council can urge a day of prayer and reflection, but it can urge a day of reflection. </span></span></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><div style="color: #1d2228;"><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Hello, </span></span><div style="background-color: white; outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">After listening to the statements last evening concerning a ceasefire resolution, here are my comments and observations. </span></div><div style="background-color: white; outline: none;"><ul style="outline: none;"><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Council is to be commended for their tolerant and respectful behavior, even when many unfair comments were made about elected officials' presumed motives and opinions. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Many of the comments were overtly antisemitic/racist: One speaker's statement, "From the river to the sea." is clearly a racist statement expressing the desire to remove by any means necessary the Jewish people from their county.</span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">There are two sides to the story. Little was said about the brutal and horrific attacks that were made on October 7th against innocent women, children and elderly Jewish citizens. There were also American citizens who were killed and taken as hostages. Statements that were made about the October 7th attacks were made in the context that they were falsely reported or did not happen. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">If Hamas would lay down their weapons and surrender, there would be an immediate ceasefire. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">The Hamas charter includes language that call for the elimination of the Jewish nation. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Many of the speakers disqualified themselves with their hateful and arrogant rhetoric. Some should have been removed from the room for outbursts outside of decorum. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Statements of fact were made that were anecdotal and not supported by data. </span></li></ul><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">City Council needs to be cautious in resolutions calling for a ceasefire:<br style="outline: none;" /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; outline: none;"><ul style="outline: none;"><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Language should be carefully chosen to avoid any misinterpretation that could be considered racist or antisemitic. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Mayor Reynolds' suggestion was noteworthy: calling for peace rather than a ceasefire. "Ceasefire" is becoming a politically charged word. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">There are many Bethlehem Jewish and Christian citizens who have good reasons to be supportive of Israel. Their views should be valued and respected. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">The resolution should include a call for mutual respect and tolerance among all religions and groups within our city. </span></li><li style="outline: none;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;">Council can lead by calling for a city-wide day of reflection/prayer/mediation and hosting respectful conversations with diverse groups to foster greater understanding and respect. </span></li></ul></div><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: inherit;"><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white;">Wishing you all well as you craft the resolution. </span> </span></p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-57516288864280234232024-03-04T00:00:00.001-05:002024-03-04T00:00:00.126-05:00Dellicker Takes Aim at MacKenzie in GOP Contest for LV Congress<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgfhvfhpVIkrp-xVum4v5OYEIv9kxw7p1-88ioHnMcfKvoAZM__tP8Wbc41wQAQSvrjpfGr7yANy3Jtwp51gGUSkCxGNqr6p_SOcEFuMTydCC4i2g-Bv5PdX2H01PhaNxvoMz5kp9laf9c3NNWByizCbVz6HN7mUIK5QrghzYnSK079Q-Z-nv/s585/dellicker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="474" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgfhvfhpVIkrp-xVum4v5OYEIv9kxw7p1-88ioHnMcfKvoAZM__tP8Wbc41wQAQSvrjpfGr7yANy3Jtwp51gGUSkCxGNqr6p_SOcEFuMTydCC4i2g-Bv5PdX2H01PhaNxvoMz5kp9laf9c3NNWByizCbVz6HN7mUIK5QrghzYnSK079Q-Z-nv/s320/dellicker.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>Three Republicans - Kevin Dellicker, Ryan Mackenzie and Maria Montero seek the GOP nomination to take on Democratic incumbent Susan Wild in this year's race for Pa.'s 7th Congressional district. My view is that, of these three, the only candidate who could beat Wild is Montero, whose views resonate with at least some Democrats. But she's run a terrible campaign and is unlikely to survive the primary. That leaves Mackenzie and Dellicker. Mackenzie is a career politician trying his very best to be all things to all people. Right now he is branding himself as a firebrand conservative, but if he wins the primary, he'll portray himself as a moderate. Dellicker actually is a hardcore conservative. While he and I have nothing in common politically, he's at least honest about who he is and what he will do. While I'm known as the kiss of death when it comes to politics, I think he'll win the primary. <p></p><p>He recently hammered MacKenzie and I thought I'd share what he has to say. </p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">It’s no secret that career politicians are tearing our country apart. They elevate crass ambition, vulgar discourse, and personal gain. They take words out of context and twist them to fit their own narrative. They’re inauthentic, ineffective, and out-of-touch with the voters they represent.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">We have seen this in Susan Wild. She says one thing at home in the Lehigh Valley and votes the complete opposite in Washington, DC. She claims to be bi-partisan but supports Joe Biden 99% of the time.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Now we’re seeing this same behavior from my GOP primary opponent, Ryan Mackenzie. For months, Ryan has been launching personal attacks against me and I’ve largely ignored his silly routine. I’ve always focused on running a positive campaign that touts my own experience and relevant credentials. But recently, he’s been going after my family, my volunteers, and my supporters. It’s time to respond.</span></p>
<p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ryan tells GOP voters he’s “America First” and expresses his unfailing loyalty to Donald Trump. But Ryan’s campaign is buoyed by Americans for Prosperity – a Super PAC with no fundraising or spending limits that supports amnesty for illegal immigrants, opposes tariffs on China, and was working throughout the GOP primary to defeat Donald Trump. Career politicians will do anything to get elected.</span></li><li><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ryan routinely attacks my military service and calls me nicknames that disparage our men and women in uniform. But while Ryan was safe and sound at New York University, I was fighting Al Qaida in the Middle East. And while he was enjoying life in Boston at the Harvard Republican Club, I was ducking into bunkers in Afghanistan. Career politicians don’t understand real sacrifice but have no problem impugning military veterans if they think they can score political points.</span></li><li><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ryan touts his record in the state legislature as evidence of his conservative achievements. Yet, he voted to make Pennsylvania a sanctuary state for out-of-town abortion providers. And he was a leader in passing Act 77, the law that gave us no-excuse mail-in ballots. Act 77 has done more damage to Republican candidates than any other law in a generation, but Ryan said he would vote for it again. Career politicians can never admit when they’re wrong.</span></li><li><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ryan Mackenzie has never served in the military and never held a private-sector job. He has been a legislator for 12 years and worked in politics his entire adult life. Yet he touts himself as “feared by the establishment.” Career politicians like Ryan are the establishment.</span></li></ul><p></p>
<p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">I’m disappointed that I had to write this note. I find no need to respond to Ryan’s juvenile provocations against me. But when he attacks my family, my volunteers, and my supporters, he’s also attacking you, the voters. I need to speak up.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The last thing we need in Washington is another career politician looking to further his own ambition at the expense of us taxpayers. You deserve better.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #2b00fe;">What we need is someone with real-world experience who will go to Washington, get the job done, and return home. That's what our Founders envisioned, and that's exactly what I will do.</span></p>
Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-44297106393566538602024-03-01T00:00:00.003-05:002024-03-01T00:00:00.135-05:00NorCo Dem Chair Condemns AntiSemitic Slurs, Fake Facebook Profiles In Apparent Reference to Sultana<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqfEulyG6qlmeMgt4kggViVJG9UdLlWQTr0kCrgftDHjOh_pcQNn6AhbQvL1gby0tpyJu5XNLCmTAqBIyg8wQM073wL1YKmNyG9GLFfILBC0MVMgKVu5oJCndGXe5ty8zs-0XcY0PDaDGq-pnaqioqv343_g5zpXXw2C11YaSLr7_5qDe8ZJ5/s1170/IMG_1016.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1170" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqfEulyG6qlmeMgt4kggViVJG9UdLlWQTr0kCrgftDHjOh_pcQNn6AhbQvL1gby0tpyJu5XNLCmTAqBIyg8wQM073wL1YKmNyG9GLFfILBC0MVMgKVu5oJCndGXe5ty8zs-0XcY0PDaDGq-pnaqioqv343_g5zpXXw2C11YaSLr7_5qDe8ZJ5/w400-h266/IMG_1016.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />NorCo Dem Chair Matt Munsey usually is Switzerland in contested Democratic primaries. Come to think of it, he's usually Switzerland in the general election as well. So it was a bit unusual for him to condemn underhanded tactics going on in one unspecified contest. Apparently, one campaign has been using fake Facebook profiles to attack a male candidate with antisemitic slurs and accusations of racism. <p></p><p>Munsey fails to name the race in which this is happening, but he's clearly referring to the Sultana-Freeman contest. </p><p>There are only two contested primaries in Northampton County for the state house. One of them is the state house race in the 131st legislative district. That's spread out over three counties and only a tiny portion (one or two voting districts) is in Northampton County. </p><p>The other race is the state house contest between Taiba Sultana and Bob Freeman. Sultana has attacked Freeman as aligned with "elitist DINO" Lisa Boscola, whose signature was forged on Sultana's nomination petition. I have watched her call fellow Easton City Council members racist, including black member Ken Brown. I have seen her accuse them of being sexist as well. And she herself has claimed she is running against the "gerontocracy," i.e. older candidates, I also have received numerous anonymous ageist comments on this blog. I have received no anti-Semitic comments aimed at Bob Freeman, but Munsey asserts these slurs have been posted on an official government page. </p><p>The only candidate in a contested Democratic primary with an official government page is Bob Freeman. It certainly looks like Taiba's minions are continuing the same nonsense they pulled with her nomination petitions. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-65694118559665250022024-03-01T00:00:00.001-05:002024-03-01T00:00:00.136-05:00What Are The Lehigh Valley's Man-Made Hazards?<p><a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/02/what-are-lehigh-valleys-natural-hazards.html">Yesterday</a>, I gave you an overview of the natural hazards identified in the draft <a href="https://ncem-pa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-Lehigh-Valley-HMP.pdf">Lehigh Valley Hazard Mitigation Plan</a>. I found the summaries of past occurrences and the threat assessments quite interesting. Today, I'm sharing portions of what are identified as man-made disasters. </p><p><b>Civil Disturbance / Mass Gathering: "</b>The Lehigh Valley is home to annual events classified as mass gatherings by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. ... Most past occurrences of non-planned gatherings within the Lehigh Valley have been peaceful, with only one incident being associated with any type of violence: a large group of juveniles (30-40) were reported fighting in North Whitehall Township. ... Many civil disturbances are reflections of human behavior and responses to current events. This reality makes it virtually impossible to predict future occurrences of civil disturbance. However, it is highly likely that future instances will occur, as the First Amendment of the Constitution protects freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to petition. At the same time, the possibility of a gathering of people becoming disruptive and/or violent cannot be eliminated, and law enforcement may be put in the difficult position of having to uphold the Constitution while maintaining law and order and protecting the public. Major national and global events are often catalysts for civil disturbances, and the Lehigh Valley should be particularly vigilant in the wake of such events. The likelihood of civil disturbance/mass gathering is considered <b>‘highly likely’</b> as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Dam Failure</b>: "There have been no recorded dam failures in the Lehigh Valley. However, the Lake Minsi Dam, which is categorized as a high hazard dam in Upper Mt. Bethel Township, was deemed unsafe due to limited spillway capacity. The lake was drained in 2017 for the dam to be repaired. ... . Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for dam failure events in the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>‘unlikely,’</b> as defined in the Methodology section."</p><p><b>Drug Overdose Crisis:</b> "The most commonly identified drug category in toxicology reports varied for counties across Pennsylvania in 2022, and overdose deaths commonly involve more than one substance. In Lehigh County, there were 162 reported overdose deaths in 2022, and the opioid class of drugs contributed in 85.8% of these deaths.178 Troublingly, Fentanyl accounted for 95.7% of all opioid-involved overdose deaths and was specifically identified in 82.1% of all overdose deaths in Lehigh County. Non-fentanyl opioids contributed to only 3.7% of overdose deaths in Lehigh County. The second most common drug class contributing to overdose deaths in Lehigh County in 2022 was stimulants, which contributed to 59.9% of overdose deaths. For Northampton County, 67 overdose deaths were reported in 2022. The opioid class of drugs was the most common contributor to overdose deaths in Northampton County, accounting for 86.6% of all reported overdose deaths. As was the case in Lehigh County, fentanyl was the specific drug identified in virtually all opioid-related deaths in Northampton County; non-fentanyl opioids contributed to only 1.5% of overdose deaths in Northampton County. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for drug overdose events in the Lehigh Valley is considered<b> ‘highly likely’</b> as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Environmental Hazards / Explosion: </b>"The region has been the location of several significant hazardous materials incidents. In 1999, a large containment vessel used to distill hazardous material ruptured, and the subsequent blast led to the deaths of 5 employees and 14 injuries. The explosion damaged numerous buildings within the industrial park as well as residential structures in the adjacent area. ... Additionally, in March of 2009, Wind Gap Borough in Northampton County was impacted by the spill of hydrogen fluoride following a motor vehicle accident. The incident took place on Route 33 just south of the borough. A truck carrying more than 33,000 pounds of chemical products rolled onto its side, closing the road for hours and forcing 5,000 people to evacuate. ... Another incident occurred in August 2011 on Interstate 78 near the Route 100 interchange. A tractor trailer involved in a collision spilled more than 7,000 gallons of motor oil on the roadway and into the nearby soil and waterways.194 This incident lasted approximately 18 hours, prompting Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to mill and resurface the roadway. In total, the initial response was able to collect just over 4,000 gallons of product, leaving almost 3,000 gallons for the state and environmental cleanup agencies to handle. ... The Lehigh Valley is also experiencing significant growth in the number of warehouses.<b> The proliferation of warehouses is likely to lead to an increase in the volume of hazardous materials in the Lehigh Valley, and improper storage and handling of these materials can cause injuries and require an emergency response. It is recommended that warehouses maintain a detailed record of the materials which are being stored so that emergency responders can better understand what hazards may be present in the event that an emergency arises at a warehouse.</b> ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for environmental hazard/hazardous materials incidents in the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>‘highly likely</b>’ as defined in the Methodology Section.</p><p><b>Fire (Urban / Structural)</b>: "Since 2001, nearly 2,000 structural fires in the Lehigh Valley have been reported. Please note that due to archiving processes and reporting requirements prior to 2007, databases may not be complete and do not necessarily represent every structural fire that occurred. However, using these sources represents the most accurate probability estimates possible. "</p><p>The Lehigh Valley has seen some notable fires since the turn of the century. In March of 2008, the City of Bethlehem, Northampton County reported a fire loss in a row of joined homes. The fire claimed the lives of four children, injured one child and injured four emergency workers, making the fire the second deadliest in the history of the City of Bethlehem. </p><p>"Plainfield Township experienced a catastrophic fire at an industrial site in 2011. The site provided the plastics industry with plastic, glass and metal separation and grinding services. In March of 2011, a fire was reported within the structure, which led to a five-county fire response that continued for more than 36 hours. At one point fire crews were using approximately 8,000 gallons of water per minute and special foam trucks from Lehigh Valley International Airport to extinguish the flames.203 Once extinguished, the building and all products on-site were deemed a loss, with a total cost in excess of $9 million. </p><p>"In April 2023, a massive fire broke out at a warehouse in West Easton. In addition to destroying the warehouse, the blaze also damaged several surrounding structures before firefighters were able to extinguish it. The response required hazmat crews because of the chemicals believed to be stored at the site, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environment performed air and water quality tests in the area. Despite more than 20 fire marshals from across the area being involved with the investigation, officials eventually determined that it was not safe or feasible to determine the specific cause of the fire."</p><p>"Major fires will continue to occur several times a year, particularly in dense, urban areas with aging building stock. Future occurrence of structural fire is thus <b>“highly likely”</b> as defined in the methodology section."</p><p><b>Levee Failure</b>: There are are four USACE levees or floodwalls in the Lehigh Valley: Allentown (Sewer Treatment Plant)
Levee, Salisbury Levee, Allentown-Jordan Creek Floodwall and Bethlehem Levee System. There are no reported levee failures, and the probability of one occurring is <b>unlikely</b>. </p><p><b>Nuclear Incident: "</b>The Limerick Generation Station and the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station are both located outside
the Lehigh Valley but maintain 50-mile ingestion exposure pathway zones that include parts of the
region. Limerick is south of the Lehigh Valley in central Montgomery County, and Susquehanna is
northeast of the region in Luzerne County. ... The Limerick and Susquehanna plants have both experienced unplanned, sudden shutdowns – also
known as scrams – of their nuclear reactors as recently as 2020. On May 3, 2020, the Susquehanna unit
1 reactor automatically shut down due to a trip of the main turbine. The reactor water level lowered to -
1 inch causing Level 3 (+13 inches) isolation. However, the operations crew subsequently maintained
reactor water level at the normal operating band, and neither the Emergency Core Cooling System nor
Reactor Core Isolation Cooling were necessary.
218 This event was classified as a non-emergency by the
NRC.
On November 13, 2020, the Limerick unit 1 reactor automatically shut down due to a valid Reactor High
Pressure signal (1096psig). The NRC determined that the closure of the 1B Inboard Main Steam Isolation
Valve (MSIV) caused the pressure within the reactor to rise until it exceeded the Reactor Protection
System setpoint of 1096psig. Once the setpoint was exceeded automatic systems shut down the reactor,
and the pressure was normalized via steam bypass valves. Like the scram at the Susquehanna plant in
the same year, the 2020 scram at Limerick was classified as a non-emergency by the NRC. Despite the
classification of non-emergency, both events were reported to NRC Resident Inspectors, Berks, Chester,
and Montgomery Counties, as well as the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency."</p><p>"Due to the extreme rarity of nuclear emergencies in the United States and the complexity of safety
regulations guiding the actions of nuclear facilities, the probability of occurrence for a nuclear incident
which impacts the Lehigh Valley is ‘<b>unlikely</b>’."</p><p><b>Structural Collapse: "</b>Historical records for the Lehigh Valley, submitted annually to the state, note two incidents of structural
collapse, not generated as a cascading impact from a separate incident, over the past two decades. In
2006, while constructing a new apartment building in Upper Macungie Township, Lehigh County
construction crews reported a catastrophic failure of the structure. No injuries resulted from this incident. In 2007, a ceiling within a commercial building in Bangor Borough, Northampton County failed,
temporarily trapping four individuals.
In addition to stand-alone incidents, some notable structural failures based upon other incidents have
caused significant damage within the Lehigh Valley. "</p><p>Lehigh County has been home to notable structural
collapses suspected of being generated from incidents such as water main breaks or sinkholes. The most
notable of these incidents happened in 1994 in the City of Allentown. A commercial structure valued at
more than $9 million was impacted by a large sinkhole, which caused the failure of systems within the
structure. Following unsuccessful mitigation attempts, the structure was imploded to minimize any
additional damage to surrounding structures. </p><p>Similar to Lehigh County, Northampton County has also been impacted by structural collapses based
upon cascading events. In 2008, a large sinkhole at an apartment complex in Hanover Township forced
the evacuation of more than 40 residents. The incident caused the failure of load bearing walls within
the structures, ultimately leading to the demolition of the two buildings. In addition, the City of Easton
evacuated an apartment complex in 2004 following the development of a large sinkhole. The structure
sustained partial failure of load bearing elements forcing the relocation of 25 residents. Additional
information on land subsidence (sinkhole) frequency can be found in the Subsidence / Sinkhole profile.</p><p>"On January 28, 2022, the 447-foot-long Fern Hollow Bridge in Allegheny County fell approximately 100
feet into the ravine below. At the time of its collapse, there were four passenger vehicles and a bus on
the bridge, and 10 people were injured in the collapse. ... <b>The Philip J. Fahy Memorial Bridge in the City of Bethlehem uses a rigid K frame
design similar to what was used for the Fern Hollow Bridge. The similarity of the design led PennDOT to
review the structural adequacy of the Philip J. Fahy Memorial Bridge, along with 4 other bridges in
Pennsylvania, immediately after the collapse of the Fern Hollow Bridge. PennDOT assessed the condition
of the bridges as “fair” and did not require posting weight restrictions. However, the cause of the Fern
Hollow Bridge Collapse has not been officially determined, and officials in the Lehigh Valley should
watch for any updates from the NTSB which may be relevant to the Philip J. Fahy Memorial Bridge</b>.</p><p>"Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational
viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for structural collapse events in the Lehigh Valley is considered
<b>‘possible’</b> as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Terrorism</b>: Suspected Terrorism in Lehigh Valley between 2018-2023: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivpjtinV3JFnqT_YEnEhd20KdlRExvZ2BmKXLNKCVGP3zd2MjlbjirrMK05-cYh_PaK15AQMswhD4nAkBen4jqm2Z9lQTUwZYxD8BeaVZNYUKDmkaOw8By5lU03GEe80TDDKcHWMJcV2OOz-pduklwNzE334j0QpbVoKJqTDBVggDNdkEGwU69/s626/terror1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="626" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivpjtinV3JFnqT_YEnEhd20KdlRExvZ2BmKXLNKCVGP3zd2MjlbjirrMK05-cYh_PaK15AQMswhD4nAkBen4jqm2Z9lQTUwZYxD8BeaVZNYUKDmkaOw8By5lU03GEe80TDDKcHWMJcV2OOz-pduklwNzE334j0QpbVoKJqTDBVggDNdkEGwU69/s320/terror1.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVrDpQduz6qdxXIqxEywVcg23dKs5BZQRbM95lm47q811A2_mE5vRlGGZ-juwAIIe67jSpiw0lgR8MQfJwZI98s9lxWxTD7caeUEVsS-B_xVcfBrEvDkRGR724ZBYn2NakuNw3dD0gC4bzJDeN_EzRIh6YzWccO6Vc3APy7ps__SQdv12C1Rr/s622/terror2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="622" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVrDpQduz6qdxXIqxEywVcg23dKs5BZQRbM95lm47q811A2_mE5vRlGGZ-juwAIIe67jSpiw0lgR8MQfJwZI98s9lxWxTD7caeUEVsS-B_xVcfBrEvDkRGR724ZBYn2NakuNw3dD0gC4bzJDeN_EzRIh6YzWccO6Vc3APy7ps__SQdv12C1Rr/s320/terror2.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>"Prediction of terrorist attacks is
almost impossible because terrorism is a result of human factors. As long as fringe groups maintain
radically different ideas than that of the government or general population, terrorism is a <b>possibility</b>."</p><p><b>Transportation Crash</b>: "According to the most recent report, there were 38,146 documented
crashes within the Lehigh Valley between 2018 and 2022. The DOT report also documents 238 fatalities
which occurred as a result of these crashes. It is notable that in 2020 both counties recorded the lowest
yearly crash totals during the 2018–2022 time frame, and this could be a reflection of lower overall
traffic following the outbreak of COVID-19. Conversely, the yearly fatalities because of crashes do not
follow the same trend, and both counties experienced an increase in the number of crash fatalities from
2019 to 2020. ... Population growth and development trends in the Lehigh Valley will likely result in a corresponding
increase of the risk of transportation crashes as more people and goods move within and through the
area. If the transportation crash statistics recorded between 2018 and 2022 are representative of near future conditions, <b>the Lehigh Valley can anticipate an average of 7,629 automobile crashes and 48
automobile crash fatalities per year."</b></p><p><b>Utility Interruption: "</b>The Lehigh Valley suffered a significant utility interruption in October 2011, when an early snowstorm
dropped between six and ten inches of wet snow on trees that still had leaves on them, causing historic
numbers of tree limbs and wires down, resulting in massive power outages. PPL and FirstEnergy, the two
largest electric utility companies in the Lehigh Valley, reported over 109,000 customers without power
for up to a week. Regional shelters and warming stations were opened throughout the Lehigh Valley to
care for people without power. </p><p>"In March 2018, a series of major nor’easters created widespread power outages across much of the U.S.
Northeast, including the Lehigh Valley. The initial storm impacted Lehigh Valley on the morning of
March 2, and by the evening of the same day there were at least 35,000 customers without power in the region.248 By the end of the next day, that number was reported to be closer to 100,000. This storm
was only the first of four nor’easters to hit the Lehigh Valley that month, and reports of power outages
accompanied each subsequent event.</p><p>"[S]everal recent and high-profile examples have highlighted the vulnerability of utility infrastructure to
these attacks. Based on historical reports from 911 dispatch, small outages are likely to continue and
should be considered <b>“highly likely</b>”".</p><p><b>Gas / Liquified Pipelines: </b>"In February 2011, the City of Allentown was impacted by a catastrophic failure of a large gas main under
a row of homes in the 500 Block of North 13th Street. The explosion killed five people and destroyed six
homes. The incident forced the evacuation of hundreds of residential and commercial properties,
including a senior living complex on the adjoining block. Since that incident, the Lehigh Valley has been
impacted by numerous failures of infrastructure causing smaller explosions with less impact.
PHMSA records of pipeline incidents since 2003 lists 13 separate events which occurred in the Lehigh
Valley, all within Lehigh County. ... . The PHMSA records
show no pipeline incidents occurring in Northampton County since 2003.</p><p>"According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, there are multiple pipelines
under development which will transit the Lehigh Valley. Additionally, data from the U.S. Department
of Transportation (DOT) reveals that 63,311 miles of pipeline was constructed across the U.S. in 2022,
which is the most in a single year since DOT began tracking this in 2006. It is also a 70% increase from
the total pipeline mileage constructed in 2021 (45,532 miles).</p><p>The County EMS is predicting <b>one incident every 18 months</b>.</p><p><b>Cyber-Terrorism (and cyber-attacks): "</b>One of largest cyber-attacks targeting an entity within the Lehigh Valley was detected in Allentown on
February 15, 2018. Unfortunately, the attack was well underway by the time it was discovered, and
many devices used by the Allentown city government had already been infected by a serious computer
virus known as Emotet. The virus stole credentials of city workers and severely disrupted government
functions, as well as other services which used information technology assets belonging to Allentown.
Among other things, the finance department of Allentown could not complete any external banking
transactions, video surveillance networks were down, and local law enforcement was unable to access
databases controlled by the Pennsylvania State Police. It took Allentown nearly two weeks to restore
some of the impacted services, and the cost to remove the virus from Allentown systems was
approximately $1 million.268 Unfortunately, the ease with which the perpetrators of these attacks can
remain anonymous makes it difficult to determine the motivation behind this attack. However, the
circumstances of the attack seem to indicate that its purpose was disruption rather than personal gain,
and this is a characteristic of cyber-terrorism. </p><p>"Another serious incident occurred in February 2023, when the Lehigh Valley Health Network was
targeted by an advanced cyber-attack. In this instance, malicious software (malware) named “BlackCat”
obtained access to highly personal and sensitive information, and the group behind the attack
threatened to publish this information unless a ransom was paid. The attack was traced back to a
nefarious cyber group associated with Russia, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
has stated that the BlackCat attack is a new but “exceptionally capable” malware.
269 While the attack
appears to have been motivated by personal gain, the nature of the attack is alarming and exemplifies
some of the difficulties associated with preventing cyber-attacks and cyber-terrorism. First, it can be
exceptionally difficult to stop or hold accountable the perpetrators of such attacks when they originate
from outside of the U.S. Second, the possibility of foreign governments providing implicit or explicit
support for malicious cyber-activity may significantly increase the sophistication of attacks. </p><p>"Societal trends and the increasing complexity and interconnectivity of technology create an
environment where the frequency of cyber-attacks and cyber-terrorism risks are likely to continue to
rise. Concern about cyber-terrorism throughout the U.S. is growing as its impacts could have potentially crippling effects. Although advancements in defenses against these attacks are continuously being
made, the possibility of cyber-attacks, some of which may constitute cyber-terrorism, will continue to
remain a <b>significant risk</b> within the Lehigh Valley."</p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-90189649754735358852024-02-29T00:00:00.004-05:002024-02-29T00:35:09.496-05:00Easton City Council Rejects Cease Fire Resolution, But Calls For Peace<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5j5eROcqHIiaSZHWGq6JPoizG9O46f1gFHazJ_29VIjNX5BJgmqj6uHAILVeIMk5xBg5YfWduT_kAzlCWrz0NS-41-m0D2WSb4c4e1He0QwC0qBlS-BPistQKuQUYVmlHNrT2du5ADiUiiMf6OXTZ9YeYBZ8i0G8gBwyfCGsKM6jUgMDkJhG/s174/Screenshot%202024-02-28%20230919.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="174" data-original-width="95" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5j5eROcqHIiaSZHWGq6JPoizG9O46f1gFHazJ_29VIjNX5BJgmqj6uHAILVeIMk5xBg5YfWduT_kAzlCWrz0NS-41-m0D2WSb4c4e1He0QwC0qBlS-BPistQKuQUYVmlHNrT2du5ADiUiiMf6OXTZ9YeYBZ8i0G8gBwyfCGsKM6jUgMDkJhG/w175-h320/Screenshot%202024-02-28%20230919.png" width="175" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">"We will vote you out."</span></td></tr></tbody></table>Easton City Council last night rejected a cease-fire resolution concerning the Gaza conflagration. It was sponsored by Council member Taiba Sultana. Her resolution died for a lack of a second. But by a 6-1 vote, with Sultana the sole dissenter, they adopted a resolution calling for world peace. (The text of both the cease-fire resolution and the competing peace proposal are <a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/02/easton-city-council-poised-to-consider.html" target="_blank">located here</a>). <p></p><p>Sultana questioned how six members of City Council could draft a resolution without first consulting her. Council member Frank Pintabone responded, "I think our resolution was drafted the same way yours was because nobody was offered to get involved with yours either." </p><p>She also stated resolutions eventually become law, but was corrected by both Solicitor Joel Scheer and Mayor Sal Panto. They both said that an ordinance is required for anything to become a city law. </p><p>Sultana argued the peace notes there are over 45 armed conflicts but fails to specify where. That can be found with a one-second search at Google, which lists precisely where there are 62 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ongoing_armed_conflicts">ongoing armed conflicts in the world</a>. </p><p>Council member Crystal Rose explained that "the thought process was that there are always going to be conflicts worldwide and we would like to say that all of us up here don't want to see people die, we don't want to see people harmed, we don't want to see armed conflict throughout the world but <b>we want to get back to city business and I think that if we keep bringing this up, we're getting away from the things that the people elected us to do here.</b> I have had an overwhelming amount of people come up to me and email me and ... most of them have been angered that we are focusing on issues that don't involve Easton." She said she was elected to deal with issues like affordable housing and food insecurity.</p><p>Sultana said she was listening to the people who came to the meeting, not those who sit in their "cozy homes." Pintabone said he received 740 emails just that day<b> "90% of them told me they did not elect me to represent them on international business. They elected me to represent them in City of Easton business. </b></p><p>Of the 13 members of the public who spoke before the vote, 12 supported the cease-fire resolution. I have summarized their comments below. I found it necessary to fact check a few claims. </p><p><b>Kaitlyn Hart (sp?)</b>: "I've been able to hold my newborn while others have placed white sheets over theirs." 80% of the world's population experiencing famine is in the Gaza strip."</p><p><b>Factcheck</b>: The claim that 80% of those who experience famine worldwide are in the Gaza strip is false. Today, nearly <a href="Civil Disturbance / Mass Gathering: "The Lehigh Valley is home to annual events classified as mass gatherings by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. ... Most past occurrences of non-planned gatherings within the Lehigh Valley have been peaceful, with only one incident being associated with any type of violence: a large group of juveniles (30-40) were reported fighting in North Whitehall Township. ... Many civil disturbances are reflections of human behavior and responses to current events. This reality makes it virtually impossible to predict future occurrences of civil disturbance. However, it is highly likely that future instances will occur, as the First Amendment of the Constitution protects freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to petition. At the same time, the possibility of a gathering of people becoming disruptive and/or violent cannot be eliminated, and law enforcement may be put in the difficult position of having to uphold the Constitution while maintaining law and order and protecting the public. Major national and global events are often catalysts for civil disturbances, and the Lehigh Valley should be particularly vigilant in the wake of such events. The likelihood of civil disturbance/mass gathering is considered ‘highly likely’ as defined in the Methodology Section." Dam Failure: "There have been no recorded dam failures in the Lehigh Valley. However, the Lake Minsi Dam, which is categorized as a high hazard dam in Upper Mt. Bethel Township, was deemed unsafe due to limited spillway capacity. The lake was drained in 2017 for the dam to be repaired. ... . Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for dam failure events in the Lehigh Valley is considered ‘unlikely,’ as defined in the Methodology section." Drug Overdose Crisis: "The most commonly identified drug category in toxicology reports varied for counties across Pennsylvania in 2022, and overdose deaths commonly involve more than one substance. In Lehigh County, there were 162 reported overdose deaths in 2022, and the opioid class of drugs contributed in 85.8% of these deaths.178 Troublingly, Fentanyl accounted for 95.7% of all opioid-involved overdose deaths and was specifically identified in 82.1% of all overdose deaths in Lehigh County. Non-fentanyl opioids contributed to only 3.7% of overdose deaths in Lehigh County. The second most common drug class contributing to overdose deaths in Lehigh County in 2022 was stimulants, which contributed to 59.9% of overdose deaths. For Northampton County, 67 overdose deaths were reported in 2022. The opioid class of drugs was the most common contributor to overdose deaths in Northampton County, accounting for 86.6% of all reported overdose deaths. As was the case in Lehigh County, fentanyl was the specific drug identified in virtually all opioid-related deaths in Northampton County; non-fentanyl opioids contributed to only 1.5% of overdose deaths in Northampton County. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for drug overdose events in the Lehigh Valley is considered ‘highly likely’ as defined in the Methodology Section." Environmental Hazards / Explosion: "The region has been the location of several significant hazardous materials incidents. In 1999, a large containment vessel used to distill hazardous material ruptured, and the subsequent blast led to the deaths of 5 employees and 14 injuries. The explosion damaged numerous buildings within the industrial park as well as residential structures in the adjacent area. ... Additionally, in March of 2009, Wind Gap Borough in Northampton County was impacted by the spill of hydrogen fluoride following a motor vehicle accident. The incident took place on Route 33 just south of the borough. A truck carrying more than 33,000 pounds of chemical products rolled onto its side, closing the road for hours and forcing 5,000 people to evacuate. ... Another incident occurred in August 2011 on Interstate 78 near the Route 100 interchange. A tractor trailer involved in a collision spilled more than 7,000 gallons of motor oil on the roadway and into the nearby soil and waterways.194 This incident lasted approximately 18 hours, prompting Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to mill and resurface the roadway. In total, the initial response was able to collect just over 4,000 gallons of product, leaving almost 3,000 gallons for the state and environmental cleanup agencies to handle. ... The Lehigh Valley is also experiencing significant growth in the number of warehouses. The proliferation of warehouses is likely to lead to an increase in the volume of hazardous materials in the Lehigh Valley, and improper storage and handling of these materials can cause injuries and require an emergency response. It is recommended that warehouses maintain a detailed record of the materials which are being stored so that emergency responders can better understand what hazards may be present in the event that an emergency arises at a warehouse. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for environmental hazard/hazardous materials incidents in the Lehigh Valley is considered ‘highly likely’ as defined in the Methodology Section. Fire (Urban / Structural): "Since 2001, nearly 2,000 structural fires in the Lehigh Valley have been reported. Please note that due to archiving processes and reporting requirements prior to 2007, databases may not be complete and do not necessarily represent every structural fire that occurred. However, using these sources represents the most accurate probability estimates possible. " The Lehigh Valley has seen some notable fires since the turn of the century. In March of 2008, the City of Bethlehem, Northampton County reported a fire loss in a row of joined homes. The fire claimed the lives of four children, injured one child and injured four emergency workers, making the fire the second deadliest in the history of the City of Bethlehem. "Plainfield Township experienced a catastrophic fire at an industrial site in 2011. The site provided the plastics industry with plastic, glass and metal separation and grinding services. In March of 2011, a fire was reported within the structure, which led to a five-county fire response that continued for more than 36 hours. At one point fire crews were using approximately 8,000 gallons of water per minute and special foam trucks from Lehigh Valley International Airport to extinguish the flames.203 Once extinguished, the building and all products on-site were deemed a loss, with a total cost in excess of $9 million. "In April 2023, a massive fire broke out at a warehouse in West Easton. In addition to destroying the warehouse, the blaze also damaged several surrounding structures before firefighters were able to extinguish it. The response required hazmat crews because of the chemicals believed to be stored at the site, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environment performed air and water quality tests in the area. Despite more than 20 fire marshals from across the area being involved with the investigation, officials eventually determined that it was not safe or feasible to determine the specific cause of the fire." "Major fires will continue to occur several times a year, particularly in dense, urban areas with aging building stock. Future occurrence of structural fire is thus “highly likely” as defined in the methodology section/"">45 million people in 37 different countries are at risk of starvation</a>. This problem is most acute in Somalia. </p><p><b>Mark Rosenzweig</b> "We can't ignore this ... genocide in progress. It's being televised. " At least 70 cities have advocated cease-fire resolutions. </p><p><a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-city-councils-increasingly-call-israel-gaza-ceasefire-analysis-shows-2024-01-31/">Factcheck (Reuters)</a>: 70 cities have called for ceasefires in Gaza. 48 cities have called for a halt to bombing in Gaza. Six cities have adopted resolutions broadly calling for peace. 20 cities have condemned the Hamas attack in Israel. </p><p><b>Jason Werner</b>: A ceasefire resolution is appropriate on a local level because "that is the most direct form of democracy the people have." </p><p><b>Kaylee Smith: </b>"Our tax dollars are sent to Israel when they could instead fund the future of our children in this city." </p><p><b>Crystal Phillips:</b> "I wish that we would fill the room for local stuff. ... There's multiple things that we presented as south side residents, but you [Council member Sultana] have not been there for us ... and it's frustrating."</p><p>(Council member Sultana retorted that she represents residents "diligently.")</p><p><b>Rai Ismail:</b> $367,000 goes to Israel from Easton.</p><p><a href="https://theintercept.com/2023/12/28/israel-us-taxes-gaza-war/" target="_blank">Factcheck</a>: Any calculation of how much each city resident contributes via federal tax to Israel is at best a guestimate. </p><p><b>Logan Scheirer:</b> He lives in Lehighton but is too scared to speak there because residents there intimidate him with threats and harassment.. He spoke twice to Easton City Council, both before and after the vote. Then he made his own promise to return to every City Council meeting until a cease fire resolution is adopted. </p><p><b>Aven Lancaster:</b> All 12 universities in Gaza have been bombed <b>and</b> destroyed. </p><p><a href="https://theconversation.com/the-war-in-gaza-is-wiping-out-palestines-education-and-knowledge-systems-222055">Factcheck</a>: All 12 universities have been bombed and destroyed <b>or </b>damaged. 378 schools have been destroyed or damaged, </p><p><b>Avalea Danes</b>: Unless City Council adopts a cease-fire resolution, "<b>we will organize and we will vote you out for your duplicity."</b></p><p><b>Yaseen Salee:</b> This was his fourth or fifth appearance before City Council. He pretty much said what he said every other time. </p><p><b>Raya Abdelaal:</b> "We're gonna' keep coming back 'till this is passed."</p><p><b>Jack Rosa with flag and mask:</b> claimed incorrectly that Easton City's budget "is and has been funding a genocide in Palestine." She added South side Easton is not as important as the conflagration in Gaza.</p><p><b>Thomas Henchen</b>: Criticized the competing peace resolution as a "vague platitude that mocks us. ... We know how the world works. ... We are a political movement with political power.""</p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-11360245614038567982024-02-29T00:00:00.003-05:002024-02-29T00:00:00.138-05:00What Are the Lehigh Valley's Natural Hazards?<p><a href="https://lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com/2024/02/lv-hazard-mitigation-plan-to-consider.html">Earlier this week</a>, I told you that both Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management agencies are in the process of updating the <a href="https://ncem-pa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-Lehigh-Valley-HMP.pdf" target="_blank">Lehigh Valley Hazard Mitigation Plan Hazards</a>. It identifies both natural and man-made hazards. Below is a listing of the natural hazards considered here in thye Lehigh Valley, which include a summary of past occurrences and an estimate of the likelihood of recurrence. I'll list man-made hazards on Friday. </p><p><b>Drought:</b> "Predicting the frequency of droughts is challenging. However, droughts appear to be cyclical, implying they'll reoccur in the future. In fact, periodic droughts are commonplace in almost all U.S. climates."</p><p><b>Earthquake:</b> "Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, as well as previous historical earthquake events, the probability of occurrence for earthquake events in the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>Unlikely</b> (less than 1% annual probability), as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Extreme temperature:</b> "The highest temperature ever recorded in the region was 105°F on the 4th of July weekend in 1966, while the lowest temperature ever recorded was -15°F on January 21, 1994. Since 1996, the Lehigh
Valley was subject to more than 196 extreme temperature events. ... Over the 27 years of record keeping of extreme temperature events (1996-2023), there have been 196 recorded events, an average of 7.25 events per year. In the last 10 years, 2013 – 2023, there has been an extreme temperature event in 7 of the 10 years. As such, the probability that the Lehigh Valley will experience an extreme temperature event in any given year is <b>Highly Likely.</b>"</p><p><b>Flood, Flash Flood, Ice Jam:</b> "The Lehigh Valley has a long history of flooding events. According to NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Storm Events Database, the Lehigh Valley experienced 235 flood events between January 1, 1996, and March 31, 2023. These floods resulted in one death, four injuries, an estimated $145.75 million in property damages, and approximately $2 million in crop damages. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for flood events in the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>Highly Likely</b> with a higher than 90% probability of annual occurrences as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Hailstorm</b>: "Hailstorms can occur as a routine part of severe weather in the Lehigh Valley. The potential for hail exists throughout the Lehigh Valley, with a few minor incidents recorded each year. ... Based on historical occurrences of hailstorm events retrieved from NCEI, the probability of occurrence for hailstorm events in the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>Highly Likely</b>, greater than 90% annual probability as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Invasive Species:</b> "Invasive species have been entering the Lehigh Valley for quite some time, though not all occurrences have required government action. Specific occurrences and quantified losses were not identified for these invasive species in the Lehigh Valley. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for invasive species impacting the Lehigh Valley is considered <b>‘highly likely’</b> (higher than 90% probability) as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Landslide</b>: "Pennsylvania has frequently been a hotspot for significant landslide occurrences due to its unique blend
of a humid climate, locally intense topography, and the varied erosion and weathering characteristics of its sedimentary rocks. Additionally, human endeavors, including commercial, residential, and industrial development, along with transportation and mining projects, often intensify the susceptibility to landslides. ... From the perspective of the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies, the probability of landslides occurring in the Lehigh Valley is categorized as <b>'unlikely'</b>."</p><p><b>Lightning Strikes</b>: "Defined as a lightning strike resulting in death, injury, or damage to property or crops, a lightning
"event" has specific consequences. From 1993 to 2023, the Lehigh Valley registered 86 such events, with
Northampton County accounting for 60 and Lehigh County for 26, as documented by NOAA-NCEI. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational
viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for lightning strike events is considered <b>‘highly likely’ </b>as
defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Pandemic and Infectious Disease:</b> Includes data concerning incidence of COVID-19, influenza, West Nile virus and lyme disease. "Influenza is among the most common and recognizable diseases within the Lehigh Valley, the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. as a whole. Influenza virus infections are detected year round in the U.S., although cases typically increase during “flu season” in the fall and winter months. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies’ operational
viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for pandemic and infectious disease events in the Lehigh Valley
is considered <b>‘likely’</b> as defined in the Methodology Section."</p><p><b>Radon Exposure:</b> The LV is in a "Zone 1" radon zone, "which means that the average
indoor radon levels are likely to exceed 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). The EPA recommends that all homeowners who have radon concentrations of 4 pCi/L or greater take remedial actions to reduce the
presence of radon. ... Radon is a constant threat throughout the Lehigh Valley. As a naturally occurring element, radon has
been present in the ground across the Lehigh Valley since long before the area was settled. Overall,
Pennsylvania is an area with historically high radon levels due to shear fault zones in the state that
contain large amounts of uranium which eventually decays into radon. ... Radon exposure is inevitable given present soil, geologic, and geomorphic factors across Pennsylvania.
In the future, the overall likelihood of radon exposure in the Lehigh Valley <b>will remain high.</b>"</p><p><b>Subsidence/Sinkholes: </b>"The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Sinkhole Inventory Online
Database, along with the 2023 Pennsylvania State Hazard Mitigation Plan, recorded 470 sinkholes in
Lehigh County and 677 in Northampton County between 2010 and 2013. Additionally, local data from
the Lehigh and Northampton County Knowledge Center databases for 2012 and 2017 indicate 101
sinkhole incidents across 23 municipalities. Bethlehem Township experienced the highest number of
sinkholes (28), followed by Palmer Township (19), Easton (12), Hanover Township in Northampton
County (6), and Lower Saucon Township (5). ... . From the perspective
of the Emergency Management Agencies of Lehigh and Northampton Counties, the likelihood of
subsidence and sinkhole incidents in the Lehigh Valley is categorized as <b>'likely,'</b> in accordance with the
definition provided in the Methodology Section." </p><p><b>Wildfire:</b> "The Pennsylvania 2023 State Hazard Mitigation Plan notes reported wildfires and acres burned in the
Lehigh Valley between 1992 and 2015. 122 wildfires in Lehigh County burned over 313 acres, while 87
wildfires in Northampton County burned more than 168 acres.
151 Wildfire events that were recorded in
the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Storm Events ... with one death reported. In addition, Lehigh and Northampton County Knowledge Center databases
identified 67 brushfires from 2012 to 2017. Information regarding damages, injuries or deaths was not
available. ... Based on the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies operational
viewpoint, the probability of occurrence for wildfire events in the Lehigh Valley is considered<b> ‘possible’</b>
as defined in the Methodology Section.</p><p><b>Windstorm/Tornado</b>: "Data from the NCEI Storm Events Database reveals a notable increase in tornado occurrences over
recent decades. Comparing two periods, from 1950 to 1995, a span of 46 years, there were 493
tornadoes recorded. In contrast, a shorter period from 1996 to 2021, lasting only 26 years, saw a similar
number of tornadoes at 497. This trend appears to be more pronounced regionally and might partly be
attributed to advancements in reporting techniques. According to a 2018 report by the National
Weather Service, part of NOAA, the overall frequency of tornadoes across the United States has been relatively steady since 1950, suggesting that the observed increase could be linked to more
sophisticated and thorough reporting methods. ... From the perspective of the Lehigh and Northampton County Emergency Management Agencies, the
probability of windstorm and tornado events occurring in the Lehigh Valley is categorized as<b> 'possible,'</b>
as outlined in the Methodology Section. This classification underscores the need for continued vigilance
and preparedness in the face of these natural phenomena."</p><p><b>Winter Storm:</b> "Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Centers for
Environmental Information reveal that between 1993 and 2023, Lehigh County encountered 256 winter
storm events, while Northampton County faced 257. These events led to property damages of
approximately $3.8 million in Lehigh County and $2.25 million in Northampton County. ... . Based on
assessments by the Emergency Management Agencies of both Lehigh and Northampton counties, the
probability of winter storm events occurring in the Lehigh Valley is classified as <b>'likely'</b>."</p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9299655.post-64734760620378995092024-02-28T01:05:00.001-05:002024-02-28T01:05:15.563-05:00State House Candidate Sultana Can Add Civil Judgment to Criminal Case<p>This blog and various other media sources have told you that Taiba Sultana, who is both an Easton City Council member and a candidate for State Representative, currently faces assault charges arising from a domestic dispute with her adult son. She even spent a night in the hoosegow.! People accused of this kind of crime are usually eligible for ARD if they are first time offenders. I expect to see her admitted into this special program for first offenders. But as that bizarre chapter in her life comes to a close, another opens. An $11,380 civil judgment has just been entered against her in magisterial district court. </p><p>From what I've been able to learn, that judgment arises from a property she rented on south side Easton. According to an anonymous comment on my blog, "she was scammed by the people whom she helped rent the apartment. That defense apparently failed in a case heard by Magisterial District Judge Sue Hutnik on February 22. Judge Hutnick entered an $11,380.50 judgment against her. </p><p>Sultana can appeal this matter in county court and have the case heard <i>de novo</i>. </p><p>This is just another of numerous red flags that have been swirling around her long before she announced her candidacy for state house. </p>Bernie O'Harehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13756311150988957401noreply@blogger.com25