Tina Cantelmi Seeks Seat On Bethlehem City Council

Blogger's Note: There are seven members of Bethlehem City Council. The seats held by Grace Crampsie Smith, Hillary Kwiatek, Rachel Leon and Kiera Wilhelm expire at the end of this year.

BETHLEHEM, PA (IMMEDIATE RELEASE)—Tina Cantelmi, a native of Bethlehem, communications specialist, and visual artist, has announced she will run for Bethlehem City Council. 

Cantelmi is a Freedom High School graduate whose career has included editorial positions for business trade publications, including Women's Wear Daily (WWD) in New York City.  After returning to Bethlehem in the early 90s to raise a family, Cantelmi became a popular weekly columnist for The Morning Call, a freelance feature writer for national and local publications, and a public relations consultant. 

Small business development will be a leading platform for Cantelmi, the granddaughter of the founder of a century-old South Bethlehem retailer. "Small businesses are essential to the local economy—they bring a unique character, provide essential local services, and create a sense of community," she says. 

Additionally, the candidate supports the following platforms.  

• Affordable Housing: Advocate policies to increase affordable housing options for residents. 

• Arts and Culture: Promote current programs and encourage the development of new programs to enrich the lives of people of all ages city-wide.

• Economic Development: Support local businesses and attract new investments to boost the local economy.

• Public Safety: Enhance public safety measures, including pedestrian and bicycle safety; police and fire support. 

• Environmental Sustainability: Implement eco-friendly policies to protect the environment. Promote our Tree City USA designation; boost awareness of tree care and the city's shade tree ordinance.

• Infrastructure Improvement: Maintain and improve local infrastructure - roads, bridges, parks, and public facilities.

• Education Support: Collaborate with local educational institutions to support quality education for all residents.

• History and Tourism: Promote and protect the city's rich cultural heritage. Invest in improving tourism services, such as public rest areas, to attract additional tourism revenues year-round. 

• Health and Wellness: Promote health and wellness programs to improve the community's overall well-being.

• Fiscal Responsibility: Ensure responsible budgeting and financial management to maintain the city's fiscal health.

"Our neighborhoods are highly distinctive, with deep histories, diverse ethnicities, beautiful architecture, trees, and waterways. Bethlehem is a precious place to live. I believe in protecting and enhancing our city as we grow into the future," sums the candidate. 

  Cantelmi earned a B.F.A. from The New York State College of Ceramics, Alfred University, Alfred, New York. She continued her studies at The Fashion Institute of Technology, NYC, where she later served as an adjunct professor. 

   For the past decade, Cantelmi has provided communications and event planning for the Judith Adele Agentis Charitable Foundation, a small Bethlehem-based non-profit dedicated to providing nourishing meals for families at hospice in addition to establishing the Judith Adele Agentis Education Fund and the first Palliative Care Fellowship in Pennsylvania at St. Luke's Hospital. 

Cantelmi lives in Bethlehem with her husband, Robert Agentis. They have three daughters and four grandchildren. In her spare time, Cantelmi often creates large, lively, contemporary abstract paintings. 

Bethlehem City Council Should Donate Sidearm to Retiring Cops

When Bethlehem police officers retire, many of them choose to purchase their sidearm. They obviously have sentimental value. Moreover, they are probably the weapon with which a retiring officer is most familiar and accurate. These sales have always been perfunctory until Hillary Kwiatek was elected to City Council. She has consistently voted No to allowing officers to buy these weapons. She claims it's a matter of conscience, but it's actually blatant virtue signaling. 

Here's suggestion for Bethlehem City Council. It's time to enact an ordinance that allows a retiring officer in good standing to leave with his firearm and the city's thanks.  

Bethlehem City Council Unanimously Vote Down Zoning Change That Would Replace Tech Center With Unaffordable Housing

The warning bells sounded by former Bethlehem Mayor Don Cunningham and ArtsQuest founder Jeff Parks worked. Last night, Bethlehem City Council voted unanimously against a zoning change that would pave the way to replace a tech center on the city's south side with high-end apartments.  The plan was to replace the former Bethlehem Technology Center, built with public money, with The Emery, a six-story, 240-unit apartment building. 

From the floor, Bethlehem sage Bill Scheirer (he has white hair) called it a situation in which "profit comes into conflict with planning. Profit has generally won over planning, but maybe not this time."  

Grace Crampsie Smith. No. - Over the past 5-6 years, 85% of Bethlehem development has been in the form of rental apartments. "I ask is this really a balance?" She noted the average median salary of a Bethlehemite is $54,000, and the rentals from new development are unaffordable. She would prefer the jobs at a high tech building built with taxpayer funds. 

Wandalyn Enix. No. - When it comes to jobs and work, we need to think 10 years down the line. "We need to think globally. We have all the assets and resources to be designated as a technology hub. We have the colleges, universities, technical schools and community colleges to develop our workforce, our businesses, our business community and our geographic proximity to major metropolitan areas is spectacular." She noted that the former tech center still has significant possibilities.  

Mayor Willie Reynolds. (No Vote) - believes that adding housing supply, even high-end, is a good thing. "We don't want to see [the former tech center] sit there vacant." His first priority is increasing housing supply. His second would be to see how the tech center can be reutilized.  

Paige Van Wirt. No. - believes any kind of housing will reduce cost. Her thinking gas changed because she thinks now that Bethlehem can become a tech hub. She said retaining the tech hub would signal to the tech industry that "we're open for business. I think it deserves that chance."

Kiera Wilhelm. No. - She initially favored the rezoning, but changed her mind now that she's learned more about the semiconductor industry. "We're looking at the possibility of something extremely valuable happening in that space."

Rachel Leon. No. - She initially thought of this project from the perspective of a south side resident. 

Michael Colon. No. - Realizes there is a housing deficit, but feels this property is more appropriately zoned the way it is. Other adjacent properties in that neighborhood have been developed for industrial use.

Hillary Kwiatek. No. Rejects the use of disparaging terms for renters. Agrees that we should give the semiconductor indusrty a chance.   

Three Bethlehem City Council Seats Will Be Contested in November

Jim Follweiler

According to the unofficial results of last Tuesday's election, the race for three Bethlehem City Council seats this November will be fully contested. Bethlehem's voters will have six candidates from whom to choose.

On the Democratic side of the ledger, Political newcomer Colleen Laird attracted 3,784 supporters, followed by incumbent Michael Colon (3,352) and former Council member Bryan Callahan (2,441).

On the Republican side, Tim Ginther (1,014 votes) and Devin Brunges (848 votes ran unopposed. They will be joined by a third candidate, Jim Follweiler, who mounted a successful write-in campaign for the third spot, just two weeks before the primary. 

Follweiler needed 100 votes and got 139. He won 99 votes in Northampton Couty and another 40 from Lehigh. 

Laird, Colon and Callahan Win Bethlehem City Council Seats

Political newcomer Colleen Laird won the most votes in the race for the Democratic nomination to three seats on Bethlehem City Council. She attracted 3,784 supporters, followed by incumbent Michael Colon (3,352) and former Council member Bryan Callahan (2,441).

Following the winning candidates were Celeste Dee (2,391) and Ricky Butler (2,391). 

Two Republicans - Devin Brunges and Tom Ginther - ran unopposed. James Follweiler waged a write-in campaign for the thrid Republican spot. Whether he was successful will be determined when the votes are formally canvassed. 

"Amazing Grace" Crampsie Smith Announces Bethlehem City Council Candidacy.

Four positions for Bethlehem Cty Council are up for grabs this year. They are the seats currently held by Michael G. Colón (Gracedale Admissions Coordinator), Shawn M. Martell (Nazareth High School teacher), J. William Reynolds (William Allen High School teacher) and Dr. Paige Van Wirt (physician). Presumably, they are all running. Dr. Van Wirt was appointed to Council, but the rest were elected. Willie is the longest-serving member, having first been elected in 2008.

These candidates are going to have some competition. Grace Crampsie Smith, a highly regarded school counselor at Easton Area High School has decided to run. I have seen her at my grandson's high school basketball games. She came with my grandson'e sister, who is also a school counselor at Easton. She tells me that everyone refers to Smith as "Amazing Grace."

From her announcement, I can tell you the following:

* She is a Democrat and longtime Bethlehem resident (28 years).

* Her dad was police chief in Clarks Summit and her mother was a nurse. "They taught me early the importance of discipline and compassion.”

* She has three children in law school, medical school and college.

* She is a "smart growth" advocate, although what that means seems to different for every person.Here's what it means to her. "It is important to maintain a balance between preserving the city's past , honoring the people and businesses that built this city and achieving progress in our diverse community. Bethlehem is a city that has never been stagnant but has constantly re-invented itself in the arts, education, and business while never losing sight of its heritage.”

* She is highly educated, having a masters degree in education and school counseling from Lehigh University and a bachelors degree in sociology and social welfare from Bloomsburg University.

* She said it is crucial for City Council members to know the jobs of city employees and the challenges they face for the overall efficiency of city operations. Perhaps she can find out why Department heads Alicia Karner and Darlene Heller forced Suzanne Borzak, the City's popular and helpful zoning officer, to resign.

* She completed the Bethlehem Police Citizens Academy to get a better understanding of the Police Department.

* She is a politically active and progressive member of the Bethlehem City Democratic Committee (Precinct 14-1), Northampton County Democratic Committee, Lehigh Valley Democratic Progressive Coalition, Lehigh Valley ROAR and Lehigh Valley 4 ALL (who agree with them).

* She has been a volunteer with Ryan’s Tree for Grieving Children, Musikfest, OLPH School, LV Pediatric Cancer Foundation and the American Heart Association.

* She is a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.

From speaking to her, I can tell you she has a sense of humor.

Adam Waldron Does It Again!

Four years ago, when he first ran for Bethlehem City Council, Adam Waldron screwed up. Big time. He failed to file circulator affidavits with his petition, mistakenly thinking that his own affidavit as a candidate was good enough. He was a sitting duck. But his opponents refused to take advantage of Waldron's oversight, and his petition was never challenged. He went on to win and decided to run again.

As he waited to file, he told me he did everything right this time. There was no way, no how, that anyone could challenge him.

When he proudly presented his petition,a Clerk looked at it three seconds and told him he forgot to get it stamped by a notary.

Out the door he went. But he's got time.

Bryan Callahan Seeks Second Term in Bethlehem

Two years ago, Bryan Callahan managed to alienate most downtown Bethlehem merchants during the Martin Tower rezoning debate. After they were all done speaking during courtesy of the floor and were unable to rebut him, he'd tick off concessions that the City made to them, often erroneously. At the end of one meeting, he actually accused one critical merchant of paying all of his Bethlehem employees from an Allentown-based business to be able to take advantage of Allentown tax incentives. Callahan claimed that he obtained this confidential information from Keystone Collections, the City's taxing authority. Disclosure of this information to the public is unlawful. What's even worse, Callahan got it wrong. No Allentown tax incentive was being used by this merchant to pay its Bethlehem employees. Despite this clear abuse of his office, Callahan announced yesterday that he's seeking a second term on Bethlehem City Council.

In 2015, I told you that a review of Bryan's campaign finances showed that 31% of his contributions between 2013 and 20015 came from unions, developers, engineers and others with a vested interest in the Bethlehem’s CRIZ, TIF or other city-sponsored projects. In 2016, an off-election year, he raised another $18,325.00, and this time, 74% of his funding came from the same crony capitalists.

Last year, he said he was "proud" to vote for a new parking garage in South Bethlehem, which did have widespread support.  What he failed to say is that he also accepted $1,000 from the Benners, who are developing the office building next door. He also took $9,000 from the trade unions who will build that garage.

At a time when the Bethlehem citizenry is acutely sensitive of pay-to-play in local politics, and two Council members have actually proposed reforms, Callahan's campaign finance is disappointing, to say the least.  

Today, I am proud to announce that I am seeking re-election to Bethlehem City Council. Four Years ago, I chose to run on a simple platform; Keep our City growing, Keep our neighborhoods clean and safe and Keep our taxes low. While we have made great strides in each of these areas, I believe there is more work to do. “I am passionate about Bethlehem. I look forward to working for the residents of Bethlehem and keeping Bethlehem a great place to live, work and visit.”

Callahan portrays himself as a financial watchdog. He points out he was the lone no vote for a property tax increase in 2016. In 2017, he claims that he fought for a tax decrease. What he fails to say is that he failed.  Once again, he was the sole No vote. "I supported additional transparency efforts on the way we spend your tax dollars and ways to reduce and streamline our city government," he claims. What transparency efforts? I wish he were a bit more transparent about what exactly he did.  Whatever they are, he claims his efforts "helped the City’s Bond rating rise from BBB+ to AAA- with a positive outlook."

He said that he will "continue to push for the redevelopment of the old Bethlehem Steel property, the Martin Tower site and infill development throughout our City. By growing our tax base, we all win."

And he collects more campaign dollars.

He claims he was "most proud to spearhead the effort to create an Italian Festival as a tribute to my late wife."

He lives in downtown Bethlehem. "Living in the heart of the downtown has allowed me to experience the vibrancy of our City from a unique point of view," he says."Bethlehem really is a special place." I agree.

I've been highly critical here of many of things Bryan says and has done. I really wish he would tone down the money from groups and people who are looking for something.. I wish they' all tone it down. But if truth be told, he is at heart a very gentle soul who wants what is best for Bethlehem.

I know he really pissed off merchants during the Martin Tower debate, but it's hard to stay mad at him.

Callahan has largely been ineffectual in his first term. He sometimes seems to forget why he's there. But I'd vote for him. He reminds me of an athlete who can't seem to get anything right.You begin to wonder why the coach is even playing him. Then all of a sudden, everything clicks. I think Bryan has great potential, and on his own merit.

He's a starter.

Callahan is a teacher at Freedom High School and is the older brother of former Mayor John Callahan.

He's currently on the bench, but should be a starter, too.

According to The Express Times, Eric Evans also announced today that he is seeking re-election, too. Though I received a notice from Callahan, I received nothing from Eric. After he reads what i write about Bryan, I doubt I'll get one.

I'm unaware of anyone else seeking these offices, which is bad for democracy.

Special Interests Drive Bethlehem City Council Race

Seven candidates are vying for four seats on Bethlehem City Council this year. Incumbents Willie Reynolds and Mike Recchiuti are seeking re-election. But no matter how you slice it, there will be at least two new Council members. In addition to the incumbents, Shawn Martell and Michael Colon are seeking one of the three seats for a four-year term. Another three candidates - Jeff Kocsis, Matt McKernan and Olga Negron - seek the two-year seat created by Karen (K. Dierdre) Dolan's resignation.

Who is funding these races? Candidates have been feeding on a heavy diet of developers and attorneys whose interest in good government extends to what is good for their own agendas.

Four-Year Seats

Willie Reynolds. - He started off with $21,407.26 and effortlessly raised $33,650. Everybody who wants something, from J.G. Petruccit to Sean Boyle to Dick Benner to Lew Ronca, stood in line with their checkbooks. Willie spent $21,000, leaving him with $33,762.54 for the last days of his campaign. He's going to win,. and I'd hope he'd give some of that money to where it is really needed, like at food banks.

Mike Recchiuti. - He's like Willie Reynolds lite. He started with less money and raised money, but it mostly comes from the same pool of special interests. Recchiuti started with $8,000, raised $17,000, spent $14,000 and is left with $10,732.

Shawn Martell. - They say that incumbents have an advantage when it comes to raising money, but Martell drew money from the same pool that gave to them. Developer Norton Herrick ($1,500), Dennis Benner ($1,000), Lew Ronca ($500) Duane and Karin Wagner ($500), Dino Montes ($500) and John Tallarico ($600) are just some of the names on Martel's pre-primary report. Tallarico also provided over $700 for a fundraiser. Altogether, Martell raised $14,883.85 and spent $4,033.61, leaving him with nearly $11,000 for the final days of his campaign.

Micahel Colon. - Unlike the three candidates above, Colon lacks the ties to people who have an agenda of their own. Most of the $5,390 he raised came from his family's pocket. He also had $6,100 in true debt to Bethlehem Business Forms and to the Steelworkers for a hall rental. He has kept most of his money, leaving him with $5,150.70 to spend against people who are more entrenched and whose blood is bluer.

Two-Year Seat

Olga Negron. - She's infected by Team Pawloski. The Allentown Mayor intent on sucking Bethlehem business dry gave her $250. Amazingly, she took it, and also took $200 from Ismael Arcelay, who withdrew from last year's NorCo Council races after being exposed for embellishing himself. She raised $6,770 and spent $3,542, leaving her with $3,228 with a week to go.

Jeff Kocsis. - Jeff raised $5,220 and spent $2,034, leaving him with $3,185.00 for the last week. No developers or attorneys have been banging on his doors, except for small contributions from John Morganelli and Tom Barker.

Matt McKernan. - This south Bethlehem business owner has raised $5,309, most of which comes from family and friends. He has spent $4,152,00. No special interests are beating down his door, either.

Bethlehem City Council Candidates Exchange Views at Northwest Blockwatch

Jeff Kocsis

All seven Bethlehem City Council candidates were in church last night, but they were not praying. At least not yet. They were there for a candidates' night hosted by the Northwest Block Watch, which meets monthly at the Church of the Manger on Greenview Street. It was standing room only, too, as about sixty people crowded into the nave, including State Rep. Danny McNeill and Lehigh County Commissioner candidate Dan Hartzell. Bethlehem Zoning Hearing Board Chairman Gus Loupos served as facilitator. He just got back from Ireland and claimed to have a piece of blarney stone for any candidate who was bashful about speaking. None of them needed any help. For a little over an hour, the candidates fielded some excellent questions.

Matt McKernan

Three of the seats up this year are for four-year terms. Four candidates are in the running, including incumbents Willie Reynolds and Mike Recchiuti, along with newcomers Shawn Martel and Michael Colon. Reynolds and Martel are teachers. Recchiuti is an elder law attorney, and Colon heads up volunteer services at Gracedale. One of these candidates is going to come up short, but all four proved to be knowledgeable and engaged.

One seat is only for a two-year term. It is the balance of Karen (K. Dierdre) Dolan's unexpired term. She resigned at the request of a Northampton County Investigating Grand Jury. Her position is being sought by Jeff Kocsis, Matt McKernan and Olga Negron. Kocsis works for Lehigh County in the register of Wills office, and Negron is employed by the Bethlehem Area Public Library. McKernan owns Mosaic, an ad agency in Bethlehem.

Olga Negron

1. 911. Since the City is being forced to contribute more money for 911, should it consider regionalizing with Northampton County, Lehigh County or Allentown? - In his opening statement and at other times during the evening, McKernan spoke of the need to create efficiencies by regionalizing municipal services. But not 911. He called it "vital to our City" and said it would be a "big mistake" to walk away. Negron added that consolidating 911 with another entity would be "horrible." Kocsis argued for keeping 911 "at all costs." Martel stated that Bethlehem's 911 is much more comprehensive than one seen elsewhere, with 108 cameras to assist firefighters, police and EMS. But Martel noted that, under current state law, Bethlehem will receive no funding for 911 next year. Colon, who worked in 911 himself, stated that some of the "equation may be out of our hands."

Michael Colon

Reynolds explained that, at one time, the state funded 75% of the cost of 911. He acknowledged everyone wants to keep it, but noted that Allentown and Bethlehem are the only two cities left in the state with their own 911 centers. "There's a very real possibility that we won't have a choice," he added.

"We on Council have done everything we can," noted Recchiuti. He told the audience that the 911 tab this year is $3.4 million, and Bethlehem is paying $2.1 million of it.

Several candidates pointed their finger at Harrisburg, and State Rep. Dan McNeill pointed out that all 83 Democrats voted to continue finding 911.

Shawn Martel

2. Single hauler. - None of the candidates champion the single hauler solution championed by former Mayor John Callahan. They instead support zoned hauling, which will permit the City to ensure that trash is not out on the street for days at a time while protecting private businesses. According to Recchiuti, Mayor Bob Donchez will soon be introducing a zoned hauling plan.

Reynolds stated that when a single hauler proposal was first floated by Mayor Callahan, his mother gave him an ultimatum. "If you vote for single hauling, take the yard sign out," she warned him. "I've known my garbage man longer than I've known you, and he's more reliable."

Mike Recchiuti

Negron stated that, as a community organizer in Allentown, she once was in charge of 42 blocks. "Allentown has a single hauler and is still full of trash," she commented, quickly adding she did not mean that quite the way it came out.
McKernan stated that, from a pure business perspective, single hauler makes sense because it is much better service at about half the cost. But he said that it's still a bad idea because it would take jobs and income away from people. "When you hire a Bethlehem hauler, that business stays in Bethlehem," he observed.

Kocsis, Martel and Colon all spoke of giving people the right to choose. Martel stated he'd be unable to sleep at night if he voted to pass a bill "that would cause people to lose their jobs."

Willie Reynolds

3. What's happening to Martin Towers? - Recchiuti was quick to point out that the city does not own the 53-acre site. He stated plans are in the works and should be on the table in three or four months. He supports a mixed use development, a proposal shared by other candidates. He stated the CRIZ is not the NIZ, referring to two development tools that develop sites with public assistance. "We've always known that this is going to need taxpayer assistance," he added. Colon lamented the lost local tax revenue from a vacant building.

Martel pointed out that it will cost $40 million to remediate problems at the site, which include asbestos. Negron stated she has a "lot of hope" for the building (there are actually several buildings) but that the City "needs to do a better job reaching out to developers."

Dan McNeill

McKernan called it "kind of an eyesore" that's "not doing anything for us." He thinks that a solution can be found by convening more "community forums" to talk about it.

Pointing out that he lives on the west side, Kocsis advised being "vigilant" and watchful. "Your concerns are mine,:" he said to the largely West Bethlehem audience.

Reynolds noted that demolishing the building might release a lot of asbestos in the air. Whatever plans are ultimately produced must "balance the needs of the neighborhood," he stated.

4. If you had to cut, where would you do it? -   Reynolds joked that he'd eliminate the $25 currently paid to Gus Loupos to conduct zoning hearings. Recchiuti stated that he does not think it would be possible to pick any one thing, but suggested a possibility with recreation. Colon proposed closing a few swimming pools. Martel agreed with cuts to recreation and overtime. Kocsis seemed to object to the question."You can't just go in with a machete and cut away," he complained. Negron suggested recruiting volunteers and students to save costs.

"I don't want to cut anything," said McKernan. "We just need to be more efficient." He added it would be "short-sighted" to close the pools because the kids would start getting in trouble.

Bethlehem City Council Candidates Night This Monday

Did you know that seven people are running for four seats on Bethlehem City Council this year? You'll have an opportunity to lean more about them on Monday night April 27. The Northeast Blockwatch, located at the Church of the Manger (1401 Greenview Drive) is hosting a Candidates Night. The fun starts at 7 pm. All seven candidates will introduce themselves and answer questions.

I'll be there, but iIm taking my life into my hands. Last time I went, I got blasted by a bolt of lighting that I'm sure was intended for Gus Loupos.

Bethlehem's City Council consists of seven members who constitute the City's legislative body. They all serve at-large for four-year terms and are paid a salary of $7,100 (the president gets an extra $500). They are also entitled to health benefits.

This year, four Bethlehem City Council seats are up for grabs. But one of them is just a two-year seat because whomever is elected will serve out the remainder of Karen Dolan's term. She resigned earlier this year after an Investigating Grand Jury determined she had engaged in multiple conflicts of interest. Amazingly, three candidates - Olga Negron, Matt McKernan and Jeff Kocsis - are all after that one seat.

The remaining three seats are all for four-year terms. Incumbents Willie Reynolds and Mike Recchiuti are asking voters for another shot. Michael Colon and Shawn Martell are seeking an opportunity to serve as well. Cathy Reuscher, an appointee, decided against running for the job.

All seven candidates are Democrats, so this race will be decided in the Primary unless an Independent gets on the ballot or Republicans mount a write-in campaign.

South Side Business Owner Joins Race for Bethlehem City Council

Blogger's Note: Usually, when a candidate runs for office, he sends me an announcement. I feel I owe it to whoever is running to publish it. i also owe it to you to keep you up to date on the myriad of local offices at play. Yesterday, Matt McKernan made his announcement in a personal email to me, betraying a self-deprecating sense of humor that all too often is missing from local pols. I liked Matt's personal note much more than some announcement drown up by a campaign consultant with yet another 5-point plan.

Dear Bernie,

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Matthew McKernan and I am running for Bethlehem City Council. While I am in no means a lifelong resident of Bethlehem, I do love this city and both my family and my business have dedicated ourselves to make Bethlehem our home, forever. Our family has been part of the Bethlehem community for the past 15 years, in both physical location, and in spirit. I currently live at 1969 Easton Avenue, right up the street from Liberty High school (I am sorry you don't trust their graduates, but my son Max will most likely attend Bechi after he finishes at St. Anne's. Yes, I read your blog...).

My wife is currently a teacher at Liberty High School (my apologies again...) and I am a business owner, with my business, Mosaic, located on the South Side, in the Flat Iron building, where I have had the opportunity to struggle and succeed for the last eight years. (notice I capitalized South Side and the Flat Iron building for no reason but for the love of the city and it's diverse and talented community. Yes, it's that important that it deserves to be capitalized).

At the moment, I have not formally announced my intention to run for council, but I have filled out the necessary paperwork, engaged my network and have started collecting signatures to be on the ballot. I plan to make an announcement in the next week.

With that said, I would love the opportunity to meet with you and discuss your vision for the future of Bethlehem, and the Lehigh Valley. Would you allow me to meet you for lunch or dinner (on me of course)?

Just to give you a little background about myself before you respond, please review my LinkedIn profile, as well as the website of my business.

Matt McKernan LinkedIn
http://www.mosaicwebsite.com/

I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
Matt

Finally! A Becahi Grad Running For Bethlehem City Council

FROM JEFF KOCSIS - Jeff Kocsis, a lifelong resident of Bethlehem, announced today that he is running for the two-year seat on the Bethlehem City Council as a Democrat.

Kocsis offers a strong sense of community and deep seeded roots in the city. His grandfather served Bethlehem as a firefighter and school bus driver while his father worked among neighbors at Bethlehem Steel. “My family always instilled in me the value of hard work and an appreciation for those in our community,” Kocsis said. “I look forward to the opportunity to represent Bethlehem and give back to those who have given so much to me.”

Kocsis, a 2004 graduate of Bethlehem Catholic High School and 2008 graduate of Moravian College believes in representing the below:
• economic growth and development
• clean and safe neighborhoods
• public safety
• government oversight and fiscal responsibility

Kocsis believes that smart growth and long term changes can offer Bethlehem a successful future while preserving the history and culture of the city.

Campaign website is www.kocsisforcouncil.com

Blogger's Note: According to his LinkedIn, Jeff is a compliance officer at the Pa. Gaming Control Board, whatever the hell that is. Currently, there are no Becahi grads on Bethlehem City Council. Reynolds, Callahan, Waldron, Stellato and Evans are all from Liberty, which is why I never trusted them. Recchiuti is a Freedom grad like Ken Kraft, and I trust them even less. Unfortunately, I'm a Beca grad, so we might be worse. The Pope has offered me money to claim I'm from an Abe Atiyeh Charter school or that I home schooled with Ron Angle. 

Recchiuti to Seek Second Term on Bethlehem City Council

FROM MICHAEL RECCHIUTI: - Democratic City Councilman, Bethlehem small-business owner, and adjunct professor, Mike Recchiuti, 38, announces his candidacy for a second term on Bethlehem City Council.

Recchiuti cites his achievements during his first term on City Council and his desire to continue to make Bethlehem a better place to live, work, and raise a family as his motivation to seek a second term.

“I was raised in a middle-class family right here in Bethlehem. This is where I live, work, and am now raising my own middle-class family. In my first term on Council, I have been a tireless advocate for fiscal responsibility, job-creating economic development, transparency in government, and public safety. But my work is not done—putting Bethlehem first by making it a better place is what drives me”, Recchiuti says.

Recchiuti points out his successes in bringing about a number of new initiatives, or “firsts”, that he helped bring to Bethlehem:

• Mike wrote the law that makes City contracts subject to approval by Council, shedding light on the way the city does business and spends tax dollars for the first time.
• Mike supported and worked to pass a comprehensive overhaul of the City's zoning law—the first in more than 30 years, which will help protect Bethlehem’s unique neighborhoods.
• In the face of a 6-million dollar budget deficit, Mike, as Chairman of the Finance Committee, worked with the City Administration and his colleagues on Council to close the deficit by refinancing and restructuring debt, by reducing city spending, and by instituting a Council mandated city-wide hiring freeze for the first time-- avoiding the need for a drastic property tax increase.
• Mike strongly supported the City's application for the CRIZ designation, and creation of the first Bethlehem Revitalization and Improvement Zone Authority, which will continue to help the City build on the over $2 billion dollars of economic development already invested in our city in the last several years.
• Mike voted for the resolution to support the region’s first Rail Transit Authority.
• Mike fought successfully to strengthen the City’s first Campaign Finance Reporting Law—ensuring additional transparency by the City’s elected officials.
• Mike also voted in support of the Landmarks and Historic Resources Ordinance—preserving the history and traditions of some of Bethlehem’s unique character and architecture for the first time outside of the City’s historic districts.

“I am proud of what I have been able to accomplish on Bethlehem City Council in only 3 years. In every area—from economic redevelopment, to city finances, to public safety, I have written or supported laws and initiatives that have made Bethlehem a better place”, Recchiuti notes.

Recchiuti is a 1995 graduate of Freedom High School. He holds a B.A. in Telecommunications from Penn State University (1999), and a Juris Doctor from Western New England College School of Law in Springfield, MA (2003). Mike is a small-business owner, running his own law practice on Center Street, where he focuses on Family and Elder Law, Estate Planning, as well as providing legal help to families experiencing financial difficulties. He is also an adjunct professor at Northampton Community College.

Recchiuti, who resides in North Bethlehem with his wife, Tina, and 18 month-old daughter, Sophia, serves as Chairman of the City’s Finance Committee, is a member of both the Public Safety and Parks and Public Property Committees, and also serves as City Council’s liaison to the Bethlehem Authority. He also participates actively in his neighborhood Block Watch.“I love Bethlehem. I grew up here, I started my business here and I am raising my family here. I am running for a second term because I feel passionately about my hometown. We need leaders that put Bethlehem First. It is what I did in my first term and what I will do in my next term.”

For more information on Recchiuti’s campaign please visit his website at www.mikeforcouncil.com.

Colón For Bethlehem City Council: Get a Load of This!

Most of the pols who seek your vote will tell you how much they are interested in municipal government, but it's pretty much pure bullshit. Unless they are the center of attention, you'll rarely see them at a public meeting. Michael Colón, who frequently attends Bethlehem's City Council, is an exception to that rule. He unsuccessfully sought appointments to two vacancies on Council over the past year. Now, he will take his case directly to the voters and is asking you to elect him.

A PSU grad, Colón is currently the Coordinator for Volunteer Services at Gracedale, the County-owned nursing home. He has worked as a 911 dispatcher and also did a stint at Bethlehem's Health Bureau. I don't want to know what he did there.

He's a Democrat, too, which certainly is a plus in the Christmas City. He also has ties to Bethlehem's Hispanic community and is a member of the city's Human Relations Commission, whatever that is.

Unfortunately for Michael, several colón cleansers have announced or will do so soon. If he's not careful, he'll fall behind.

Spadoni to Seek Karen Dolan's Seat in Bethlehem

Bethlehem Attorney Chris Spadoni would like Karen Dolan's seat on Bethlehem City Council, and he deserves it. My first trial was against him, and the bastard beat me. I've had it in for him ever since, and this is my chance to get revenge.

Actually, Chris and I are friends for many years. He helped me complete my first long run. He never looked down his nose at me after I was suspended from practicing law. He has a well-earned reputation as a fierce litigator, but what most people forget is that he is extremely knowledgeable about municipal government. Over his career, he's provided legal advice to Northampton County, Lower Mount Bethel Township, Stockertown and Easton. Most importantly, he served as Bethlehem's City Council Solicitor for 16 years. He succeeded a fellow you might know. His name is John Morganelli.

With his institutional knowledge, he's without question the most qualified applicant. As he states himself, he'd be able to "hit the ground running". His top priorities are "public safety, fiscal responsibility, and the provision of services".

He indicated he would only serve as a placeholder, leaving the politics to someone else.

Unfortunately, it was politics that ended his position as Solicitor. Dolan wanted him replaced because he gave legal advice, as opposed to telling her what she wanted to hear.

It would be the ultimate irony to see Spadoni selected for the seat she once held.

You can read Spadoni's responses to a few questions here.

Who's Running For Bethlehem City Council?

In this year's race, the seats currently held by Jean Belinski, Dave DiGiacinto, Karen Dolan and Eric Evans are up for grabs. Jean Belinski is stepping down at the end of her term, and Dave is being pressured to run for Controller. So there may be two open seats.

So aside from Dolan and Evans, who else is running?

I've heard Jason Toedter, who worked for Callahan when he ran for Congress. I know mortgage consultant Sam Rohrer is also eyeing up a bid.

Hear any names?

Following the Money in Bethlehem's Dirty City Council Race

Bethlehem may pride itself on the civility of its City Council, but the race between three Democrats and three Republicans for three seats has been one of the dirtiest I've ever seen. One of my readers once said that Bethlehem is really just another Bangor with lace curtains, and I'm inclined to agree. The pre-election finance reports provide a few clues.

One person has remained above the fray - City Council President Bob Donchez. It's no surprise that he's the biggest fundraiser, too. He picked up $14,971 over this reporting period, giving him $48,356.43, nearly as much as Ron Angle raised for County Council.

One of Donchez' biggest contributors is a long-time friend, DA John Morganelli. An unusually large number of developers also donated to Donchez, from Boyle Ventures ($500) to Dennis Benner ($500). Broughal & DeVito, which represents Bethlehem's Parking Authority, also kicked in $500.

Donchez only spent $14,107.81, leaving him with a very healthy $34,248.62 in his warchest. Gee, with that kind of money, he could run for another office.

Like Mayor.

Willie Reynolds did pretty well, too. He raised $8,265 this reporting period, giving him a total of $17,503.64. Broughal & DeVito gave him $485, and another $485 comes from Martin Tower developer Lew Ronca. There are smaller sums from people like Joe Kelly, Bethlehem's DCED Director, and Callahan brother-in-law Dino Cantelmi.

Reynolds spent $15,463.26, leaving him with $10,305.38 for a last-minute push.

Michael Recchuiti raised $8,825 over this reporting period, giving him a total of $12,713. His contributors include people and outfits like Callahan brother-in-law Dino Cantelmi ($100), Broughal & DeVito ($250), Allentown contractor Lee Butz ($250), Bethlehem DCED Director Joe Kelly ($250), Willie Reynolds ($500), IBEW ($500) developer Dennis Benner ($500), developer Abe Atiyeh ($500) and City Line Construction's Tom Williams ($1,000).

Recchiuti has spent most of his money, and is left with $1,035.27.

Among the three Republicans, Al Bernotas raised the least amount of money. I neglected to record the exact sum, but it wasn't much. Al has actually told some would-be contributors that he doesn't want their money.

He's running on his good looks.

But Tom Carroll will take money from anyone, even if it's LC Party Bossman Wayne Woodman ($1,000). Carroll reported raising $17,738.96 this reporting period, with $3,000 coming from Bob Pfenning, a long-time City Hall watcher. Carroll has spent nearly $10,000 leaving him with $8,495.69 for the remaining days.

Bob Pfenning gave another $3,000 to Tony Simao, who raised $8,325.26 this reporting period, giving him $9,810.34 total. Tea Party activist and Lehigh County watchdog Stan Bialecki donated $500 to Tony as well.

Having spent $7,050.07, Tony has $2,760.27 for the final days of this race.

Bethlehem City Council Race: Rubberstamp Reynolds?

Like Russell Crowe did to a corrupt Roman Emperor in Gladiator, Bethlehem City Council candidates Tony Simao and Tom Carroll have unleashed hell on Bethlehem politicians. In a youtube video so powerful that it caught the attention of The Morning Call, two men have presented a compelling indictment of Bethlehem's financial mismanagement under Mayor John Callahan.

Blogger Jonathan Geeting, who is an expert on ... well ... everything, huffed that he was "not impressed" by 241 page views in less than 24 hours. It's now up to 643 views. I have over 389 videos uploaded on my Youtube channel, and the only ones with more views than that are, believe it or not, some of  my Bethlehem Steelers football shots.

I'm impressed.

Simao and Carroll are still unleashing hell. In their second segment, which you can see above, they take specific aim at Bethlehem Council member J. William Reynolds, whom is labeled as "Rubberstamp Reynolds."

I contacted Reynolds for his response to this video. Unfortunately, his grandmother recently passed away, so he was in New Jersey today for the viewing and away from the computer. He'll send me his reaction in the next few days.

Carroll & Simao Unleash Hell Against Bethlehem Politicians

Now this is one powerful video, definitely worth the time spent watching it. I reminds me of a blockbuster movie preview, and I half expect Russell Crowe to jump out in the end and lop off the head of some decadent Roman Emperor. Instead of Crowe, it's Tony Simao and Tom Carroll, who are running for City Council in Bethlehem. Aside from the Hollwood style, this preview is a very compelling indictment of Mayor John Callahan's mismanagement.

Will it get them elected?

Council President Bob Donchez is unbeatable, and they leave him alone, very wisely. They instead focus on incumbent J. William Reynolds and candidate Mike Recchiuti, both of whom are tied to the Mayor.

I think it will be tough to beat Reynolds. He might be a Callahan cheerleader, but seems to work hard at his job and put in the hours. There's something to be said for that work ethic, which I respect. Also, his skin has to be incredibly thick because he never lashes out at the people who criticize him, even when they do it with silly grades in an open meeting.

Maybe he should start a blog.

I have not quite made up my mind about Reynolds, but agree Recchiuti is a joke who cold not even keep his job in some law firm. His Callahan-financed campaign should be seen as an attempt to stack the deck in favor of the Captain of a sinking ship.

Interestingly, fellow Republican Al Bernotas is absent from this clip. That's probably a good thing. I called Al recently, and he surprised me by telling me he was in the middle of a class on zoning at LVPC. The guy really cares. But he's grown increasingly bitter over the Elias zoning expansion, in which he is a litigant, and has lashed out at many people unnecessarily. At a recent City Council meeting, for example, he actually chided members of Bethlehem's Planning Bureau for not dutifully writing down his pearls of wisdom concerning a new zoning ordinance. If Reynolds or Donchez had done something like that, they'd be strung up in a heartbeat.