Sestak, Simmons, Fail Transparency Test

Election Day is tomorrow. For two candidates, we lack some important records.

Senatorial candidate Joe Sestak, forced to retire from the Navy because of a "poor command climate," still refuses to release his service records. State house wannabe Justin Simmons still refuses to e-file his campaign expenses, or make them available on any one of his three different web pages, while simultaneously questioning his candidate's finance report.

It's a safe bet neither believe in transparency.

Bethlehem 'Canes Finish 2d in Homerun Sizzler

May 15 and 16th was a beautiful weekend for tournament baseball, but the Bethlehem Canes started off on the wrong foot with a 12-10 loss to the South Jersey Elite on Saturday morning. They missed their morning coffee. But then these ten-year old boys, who play for a Liberty High School feeder team, beagne fighting back until they made it to the "ECTB Homerun Sizzler championship" late Sunday afternoon in East Allen's Bicentennial Park. They came up three runs short, but had an exciting weekend with seven other teams from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland.

Teams with intimidating names like the Scranton Miners and the Mason Dixon Ruffnecks rolled up in their RVs, ready to play ball. But they did more than that. They wiped out the concession stand. Innocent people riding their bikes were nearly beaned by foul balls several times. Eventually, the bikes stayed away. Even people walking their dogs were attacked by ballplayers and their sisters, asking to know each dog's name, apparently for future reference. The dogs loved it, and the owners were very proud!

Sunflower seeds, bubblegum, jerky and Gatorade were in abundance. But now there's something new. Silly Bandz. They'e just reshapable rubber bands, but nearly every kid has 100 on each wrist, at least between games.

Of course there were several very serious injuries. One of the Canes - his name is Ben - went after a fly ball that glanced from his glove right into his eye, which swelled up like a golf ball. Kids gawked at him, and later debated whether it was a black or a white eye. Eventually, he went to the doctor and was placed on injured reserve. But he returned later to cheer on his friends, who were really impressed by that gigantic bump right by his eye.

Then there's South Jersey Elite's first baseman. He went after a foul ball and ran right into a chain link fence, face first. He immediately went down and coaches and parents rushed to him. So did the ump, who looked at the ball, still sitting inside his glove because this kid had miraculously caught the ball. "The batter is out!" Blue cried, and the first baseman hopped to his feet, rejuvenated by that simple phrase.

The only damper to an otherwise pleasant weekend was pretty much my fault. In the championship game, I noticed that the base ump was setting up almost immediately in front of the third baseman, obstructing his view of the plate. I pointed this out, and rather loudly. The team manager must have heard me because he began to complain about it directly to the ump.

"I have the right to stand wherever I want," snorted the ump.

Actually, he doesn't. I'm not sure exactly what the manager said, but it involved a tricycle and a trailer park. He was promptly ejected from the game. In fact, they stopped play until he was gone and apparently have since complained to tournament officials about this unsportsmanlike conduct.

That's pretty strange, but the strangest thing for me was during one of my grandson's at-bats. When he walked up to the plate, two cute girls right around his age ran up to cheer him on. "I just love Dat," confessed one of them. I didn't notice that last year.

Girls are now watching the boys. They may not know why, but they're doing it. When I told Dat about his admirer after his games, he acted as though he did not care. But then he asked me to point her out.

Who won? Mount Joy Elite Baseball, located near Lancaster. They deserved it, too. They shook hands with the 'Canes twice, after the game and after getting their medal.

The kids set a very good example for us.

They include David Bertolotti, Zach Besz, Jared Burcin, Harrison Fandel, Sam Kraihanzel, Dat Lambert, Alex Laudenslager, Patrick Mayer, Jacob Morgan, Kyle Picht, Justin Schmoyer, Jacob "Uni" Unangst, Jacob "Wags" Wagner and One-Eyed Ben.

Allentown's Rubber Stamps

"We screwed up, myself included. Let's fix it now, and moving forward, let's make sure it doesn't happen again."

--Allentown Controller Bill Hoffman

This statement is part of a Morning Call account about Allentown Mayor Edwin Pawlowski's penchant for spending beyond what has been authorized by City Council. Allentwon watchdog Lou Hershman, who has persistently questioned this practice, told Renshaw that "[y]ou can't operate a budget out of a shoebox."

Everyone's favorite conservative, Scott Armstrong, believes this is just the inevitable result of Allentown's machine politics.

"If it wasn’t for Lou Hershman and The Morning Call reporter Jarrett Renshaw, Allentown City Controller Bill Hoffman would still be screwing up by allowing the administration he is supposed to be policing to spend beyond the limits of the city budget. Of course, no one on Council spoke up even though they also are supposed to be providing oversight of the city’s budget and expenditures.

"The truth here is plain and simple. Ed Pawlowski has bought and paid for a Controller and City Council that merely rubber stamps and/or acquiesces to his every action. They are a team, a machine more concerned with politics and power than good government. They are without a doubt all guilty of a gross dereliction of duty. They are the facilitators of the corruption that is Allentown’s City government."

ET Sportswriter Blouse Can't Endorse Scagliotta

Express Times Managing Editor Jim Deegan has tried to muzzle sportswriter Michael Blouse from endorsing Frank Scagliotta in his state house race against Charles "don't call me Charlie" Dertinger. Deegan is obviously acting under orders from the Big Cheese himself, Joe Owens.

Owens, who started life as a sportswriter, and in Philly of all God-awful places, should have known better than to mess with Blouse, who deftly handles the situation like this:

"I'm not allowed to endorse political candidates for Tuesday's primary election, so says svelte slimmed-down Managing Editor Jim Deegan. So, folks, I will NOT blog today about the honorable Frank J. Scagliotta's run (the "J" stands for "J"ustice) for state representative of the 137th District. The superb Scagliotta, the HofF football coach at BAHS and formerly regarded as one of the nation's elite college basketball officials, is destined to defeat overmatched opponent Charles "Chuck" Dertinger, a professional political [?] who is a porous one-for-five at the polls. (Guess I ain't allowed to wish Frank "good luck" either?) Check out this outstanding Q&A between the fabulous Frank J. Scagliotta and blogger extraordinare Bernie O'Hare. I love politics."

Goal! Ggoal! Ggggggoooooaaaaalllllllllll!

Coach Scagliotta now has a campaign web page.

What are Your Primary Predictions?

A reader asked me to set aside a blog for all your primary predictions, near and far. That seems like a good idea. Will Specter the Defecter knock off Sestak? Will Onorato win the lotto? Does anyone even care about the Lieutenant Governor's race? Fire away.

Online Finance Reports For State House Candidates

There are three contested state-house primaries in the Lehigh Valley involving eight different candidates. Only one of these candidates has failed to e-file his finances. Ironically, he's the one who claims he's "accountable."

138th (Craig Dally resigned)

Marcia Hahn - report here.

Nick Sabatine - report here.

133rd (Rich Grucela is retiring)

Don Albanese - report here.

Charles Dertinger - report here.

Joe Emrick - report here.

Frank Sacagliotta - multiple reports here.

131st (Karen Beyer incumbent)

Karen Beyer - multiple reports here.

Justin Simmons - maybe Wednesday. On his blog, Justin pontificates that "the way we manage our funds in a campaign speaks volumes about how we manage the taxpayers’ money." I agree. Simmons is the least transparent of the eight candidates in three contested state house races.

Following the Money in the 137th

Yesterday, I told you about the campaign warchests of Charles Dertinger and Frank Scagliotta, the two Democrats seeking the seat held by retiring state rep. Rich Grucela. Dertinger raised $15,965 to Scagliotta's $3103. Nearly all of Dertinger's money comes from nonlocal unions.

What about the Republicans?

Don Albanese has raised a grand total of $2,175. Joe Emrick's warchest was four times larger. He raised $5,577 in addition to the $3,395.33 that was already in his kitty.

Neither Republican received any PAC money. They relied on mostly small, $100, contributions from family and friends. Republican Kingmakers L. Anderson Daub and Elmer Gates did kick in $1,800 to Emrick.

Both candidates bought two small ads and paid for a small mailer.

Dertinger raised more money than the other three candidates combined. Dertinger is the only candidate who accepted such huge sums of special interest money, raising questions about his independence.

All of these reports are available on the Department of State web page.

Bethlehem To Consider New, "User Friendly," Zoning Ordinance

Are you a good neighbor?

Everyone is concerned about what goes on in his own back yard. Zoning is the way municipalities quantify what neighbors may or may not do. Bethlehem Planning Director Darlene Heller unveiled an ambitious new zoning ordinance in a power point presentation to city planners and the public yesterday afternoon.

Her main goal is to make it easier to be a good neighbor. "It's user friendly," she explained, stating that the new ordinance is easier to follow and understand. In her summary, she stated it provides for more appropriate, yet flexible, development.It maintains existing, healthy neighborhoods. Finally, it makes provisions for environmentally sensitive lands.

Perhaps the biggest change is something Heller calls a "work force housing initiative," designed to encourage more affordable housing. In certain areas, this will permit an increased density for developments with more than 20 units.

The ordinance makes it easier to solve the parking problem that often plagues businesses and residences. It provides for "shared parking," in which a church or neighbor could agree to allow parking.

To encourage open space, this proposal will permit cluster development in rural residential areas. It will encourage tree conservation as well. It will prohibit construction in the "flood fringe" unless there has been a building or parking lot there within the last ten years.

For businesses, a "green component" will allow businesses using solar panels or wind turbines to operate slightly larger buildings.

In response to questions about a time frame, Heller indicated she will conduct work shops with the public; elicit presentations from different interest groups; and post the proposed ordinance, her power point and new map on the city web page. "When it goes to the Planning Commission depends on public interest," she concluded.

Planning Chair Larry Krauter asked Heller why the old paint mill, off Mauch Chunk Road, is zoned industrial when Monocacy Creek, a Class A wild trout stream, runs along its border. Heller explained that the new industrial classification "is more flexible" in its permitted uses. Krauter gently cautioned her, "You need to keep that in mind."

Before this proposed zoning ordinance becomes law, it must be recommended by the Planning Commission and City Council.

In other matters, planners unanimously agreed to permit Eileen MacMullen to covert her commercial condo unit in Payson House, located at 77 W Broad Street, into a "live work unit." The front of the unit, which faces the Sun Inn Courtyard, must be kept commercial.

They also approved the Silk Mill plan for a 4-story apartment building, containing 90 units, at 238 W. Goepp Street. There will be 151 apartments at this site with 260 parking spaces.

The plan proposed by Silk Mill Partners was a stucco and brick veneer building with a gable roof. Planners note that the Zoning Hearing Board had approved a flat roof and brick exterior. Planner Katie Lynch noted, "We want the outside look to be as authentic as possible."

The Silk Mill was represented by Mickey Thompson, who strangely also serves as Solicitor to the Zoning Hearing Board. "Our intent is not to do a switcheroo," he said, adding it is no problem to match the existing buildings.

Planners ultimately gave Silk Mill a green light, but insisted that the new building be flat-roofed, all brick exterior, and match surrounding buildings.

Cunningham to Perform at Sands Sunday Night

Election Day is just around the corner....

But, first it's time for a rock n' roll party!

Come join Lehigh County Executive Don Cunningham and The Cabinet for a rollicking night of good time dance rock n' roll at the Lehigh Valley's hottest new night spot:

Molten at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem
This Sunday (May 16th)
from 8 p.m. to midnight
Free Admission

A favorite at festivals and fundraisers across the Lehigh Valley for the last decade, this is Don Cunningham and The Cabinet's first nightclub appearance. I understand Scott Ott and the Mennonites will be there, too, to try and turn everyone into pillars of salt.

A-town Rumor: Pawlowski Asks Thiel to Run for City Council

This is the place for completely unsubstantiated gossip and outright lies, so I might as well share the latest rumor. It's that Mayor Edwin Pawloski is begging Republican-turned-Democrat Charlie Thiel to run for City Council. Apparently, Hizzoner has had just about enough from Council members Michael Donovan and Jeanette Eichenwald, who actually question him. They're apparently unaware that King Edwin graduated from Moody Bible College, damn it.

Thiel's CSI is the city vendor that installed all those surveillance cameras with the flashing blue lights. He has posted testimonials from King Ed's mayoral campaign to his business site. Running for City Council might jeopardize his business relationship with the Queen City. Or it might enhance it.

Is this rumor true? Maybe so, maybe not. I kinda' doubt that Thiel has the time. But it's no secret Pawlowski is trying to get rid of Donovan and Eichenwald.

DA John Morganelli to Endorse Joe Sestak

This just in:

Northampton County District Attorney John M. Morganelli, the Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania Attorney General in 2008, and a past President of the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association will formally endorse Congressman Joe Sestak for US Senate at a campaign event in Bethlehem on Friday May 14, 2010. Morganelli is a 5 term district attorney in Pennsylvania and one of the state's longest serving district attorneys. Morganelli is scheduled to introduce Congressman Sestak at the campaign event.

John and I have actually placed a friendly wager over the outcome of the Specter-Sestak race. I'm looking forward to eating a Morganelli, the sandwich named in his honor.

If he wins, I'll report him to AG Corbett for gambling.

Dertinger Will Represent Unions, Not You

Charles Dertinger is seeking the Democratic nod for the state house seat currently held by State Rep. Rich Grucela. His campaign finance report makes one thing very clear- he'll definitely be looking for that union label. He's running to represent them, not you.

An alphabet soup of unions is funding his campaign.

IBEW has kicked in the lion's share with a whopping $8,650. Other unions, from AFL-CIO to the Steamfitters, have kicked in another $6,000. Nearly all of the $15,965 he raised comes directly from non-local unions.

In sharp contrast, Dertinger's Democratic opponent, Frank Scagliotta, has raised $3,103.25, mostly in the form of small contributions from friends and family.

Where is Justin "Accountable" Simmons Campaign Disclosure?

On Tuesday, I told you that I could find no campaign disclosure on the state website for Justin Simmons, a conservative Republican running against State Rep. Karen Beyer in the 131st legislative District. In contrast, Beyer has e-filed her disclosures, which are available for public inspection.

Since Simmons has proclaimed that "It's time to make our politicians accountable," I thought I'd start with him. Where's his report? Simmons is Internet-savvy and actually has three different web pages to tell you how great he is. He even has a web page set up called Office Expense Report to account for every dollar spent. "I will show you where your money goes.
I will work to earn your trust," he says.

He could start by posting his expense report there since it's not on the state website and likely won't be there until after the election. But he didn't.

Instead of doing that, I've been called a liar by one of those goofy young Republicans who sleep in three piece suits. I was anonymously told, on Tuesday, that "Simmons' report should be online no later than tomorrow, just in time for you to dream up more scurrilous charges against him."

Well, it's now Thursday. I'm making the same scurrilous charge. The election is in three business days. There is no report.

And no accountability.

Does Pennsylvania Have Too Many Judges?

Do we have too many judges? Governor Rendell seems to this so, according to this interesting email from the CCAP (County Commissioners Association of Pa):

Last week, Governor Rendell announced that most judicial vacancies would not be filled, as a short-term means of reducing judicial system expenditures. Exceptions may be possible on a case-by-case, critical need basis. The freeze was requested by Chief Justice Ron Castille who cited the judiciary's "dire fiscal situation," and is reported to affect nearly 30 vacant judgeships across the state. Additionally, the Supreme Court after systematic evaluation may act to consolidate some magisterial districts and recommend to the General Assembly the elimination of select Common Pleas Court judgeships.

CCAP is recommending that each county meet with its president judge to see whether its judicial complement is affected by the freeze, and whether any magisterial district justice positions are to be frozen or consolidated. Counties are encouraged to have local discussions on whether the current level of support expenditures can be reduced as positions are frozen or consolidated, and conversely whether other types of expenditures, including expediting installation or upgrade of video facilities, may be necessary to accommodate the freeze.

Northampton County currently has nine judges. In fact, our most recent judgeship was created without even asking for it. In addition to those nine judges, there are three senior judges and "masters" to handle pretrials, custody disputes, dependency and juvenile matters.

Each judge is paid $161,850 per year, whether at the courthouse or "home office." Senior judges get $497 per day, whether they work one hour or eight.

These salaries are paid by the state, but I've been told that every additional judge means about thirty county employees. In addition to the clerks, tipstaffs, secretaries and deputy sheriffs, personnel must be hired in different offices to handle the load.

It's no surprise that the Supreme Court would try to ease the burden by cutting down on the number of District Judges, most of whom are swamped. I doubt any President Judge is willing voluntarily to agree to any reductions. They've got a good thing going in Northampton County, with their own private floor. That's ostensibly for security, but it also prevents the public from seeing how little time they spend at the Courthouse.

Judges should be accountable, too. We lay off everyone else. maybe it's time to lay off a few judges.

Who Is Nathan Ogden and Why Does He Matter?

In 1771, Northampton County Deputy Sheriff Nathan Ogden was killed while attempting to execute an arrest warrant. He is the first known law enforcement officer to make the ultimate sacrifice for his community in America. In his memory, the Northampton County Chiefs of Police Association annually honors a police officer who distinguishes himself and his profession.

This year's recipient is Bethlehem Township Police Captain George J. Boksan, a thirty-year veteran. Chiefs from around the County applauded Wednesday afternoon as Boksan was presented a trophy that depicts a police officer holding a child in his arms. This ceremony was conducted at Northampton County's 911 Communication Center. On display was a long rifle from that period.

"I didn't expect to see you here," joked Roy Seiple, who chairs the chiefs association. "We both graduated from college together with [District Attorney] John Morganelli. Two out of three's not bad."

Captain Boksan is married and has a son who will attend grad school at PSU this Fall. Boksan and son are both graduates of Moravian College. In 1998, during a public meeting, he used an AED device to revive a heart attack victim. He has worked as patrolman, detective and Captain.

The presentation this year, and for the last eight years, is made during National Police Week. William Hillanbrand, a Northampton County Emergency Management Planner, pays for the trophy every year out of his own pocket. His father and grandfather were cops.

There's a related story in The Express Times.

Are Bethlehem School Directors Athletic Supporters?

"These are sh-- a-- numbers and they make no sense."

That's what Bethlehem School Board member Ron Amato publicly stated during a five-minute break at Tuesday night's budget hearing. Though surrounded by teachers and principals, no one gave him a detention. Not even a demerit. Amato was visibly upset by proposed cuts to the school district's athletic department. Nothing is sacred as board members and administrators alike review a $207 million budget that could entail a 6.17% tax hike.

Laid out by Director of Student Services Dean Donaher, these cuts include the following:

* Reducing Middle School Cross Country and Field Hockey to two teams, one from Northeast/Nitschman and the other from Broughal/East Hills, saving $4,368.

* Reducing the Middle School coaching staff in soccer, softball, cheerleading, basketball and volleyball by a total of three assistant coaches, saving $20,440.

* Reducing the High School coaching staff in football, basketball, wrestling and track by 2 1/2 positions, saving $23,712.

* Combining the two High School Athletic Directors into one position, saving $56,174.

Dr. Donaher made clear he opposes these cuts, noting they would "severely impact our student athletes and put them at a disadvantage." Dr. Thomas Persing, the Interim Superintendent, agreed. "I think you shortchange the program and, more importantly, I think you're going to damage the economic and fiscal integrity of the program," he said.

"What thought was put into this?" demanded Amato, wanting to know other extracurricular activities were ignored. He noted there are two band directors, two glee clubs, two choruses, two school plays. "This is just the start of the elimination or deterioration of our athletic program," he lamented.

"Would Anthony Gonzalez be going to Pitt on a full athletic scholarship? Does his family have money to send him to school? Probably not. I think that's discriminatory against our minority group," concluded Amato. Earlier that evening, board members were told that colleges award an average of forty athletic scholarship each year to Bethlehem's two High Schools.

Director Eugene McKeon observed that the Middle School level is "where you need the most help, at that level." Echoing those concerns, Director William Burkhardt stressed the importance of athletics.

"Next to academic preparation, which obviously is our highest goal, the thing that gives kids a reason for being in school, ... is that you got to put kids with adults who care about them and will do productive things with them, keep them off the streets, have them in worthwhile clubs and organizations. This would be one of the most ill thought out reasons to save $50,000. I know that's not politically correct because we should save two cents if we can. We're in the business of educating kids. That's our job," he noted. "Please don't count on my vote for these kinds of things."

Athletics make up $1.6 million of BASD's proposed $207 million budget.

In addition to athletics, School board member Aurea Ortiz questioned a 617:1 student-administrator ratio at Liberty High School as well as its larger class sizes. Dr. Persing promised to find a way to add reduce that figure without increasing taxes.

The school board will continue its review of the Budget on Monday night. Budget details are contained at the school's web page.

State Rep. Karen Beyer: She Stood Up to House Leaders

State Rep. Karen Beyer has represented the 131st legislative district since winning a special election there in 2005. It's a Democratic-leaning district, consisting of one Lower Saucon Township precinct, Upper Saucon, Lower Milford, Coopersburg and part of Salisbury, Upper Milford and Allentown.

Since she previously worked in Doug Reichley's office, I expected her to be his clone. She does share his work ethic, which constantly amazes Ron Angle. He has told me he knows no one in government, excepting himself, who dedicates more time to the people.

What I admire is her courage in standing up to party leaders and helping to resolve a budget impasse that was hurting the people who need help most. Her opponent

Q) In the past two years, two state legislative leaders have been convicted of using their office for political or personal gain. Isn't that a sign that something's wrong with the way business gets done in Harrisburg?

A) Yes. I knew there was something wrong on my first day. Here's a quick story: I went to a benefits briefing and was given a form to sign. It was on a green sheet of paper. When I asked what it was, I was told it was for un-vouchered expenses...thus accepting the pay raise. I refused to sign and accept it. Over the next two months, a debate waged throughout the General Assembly on the repeal of the pay raise. I learned then that it was two Republican Committee Chairman who had insisted upon the pay raise in the first place. A little known fact. It was eventually repealed, but the public never saw the arguing and dissension that occurred behind the scenes. There was a great amount of arrogance on display during that period of time.

As for the indictments, I think the Attorney General's actions have changed the tone and tempo of Harrisburg. Because of his actions, there is much more scrutiny by the public…and that is good. Individual members are much more mindful about how they conduct their legislative business to ensure they don't mix campaigning and the people's legislative business. The Attorney General has done the Commonwealth a great service by being courageous and investigating the legislative leaders. He has caused members to be vigilant and careful in their legislative conduct, something I did not witness when I first arrived in Harrisburg.

Q) According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, Pennsylvania has the largest full-time and second most expensive legislative branch in the nation. Is it time to cut back?

A) It is time to cut the number of legislators. I am a co-sponsor of a bill calling for a Constitutional Convention, which would address several areas that need reform in our government. Reducing the size of the legislature, medical malpractice and tort reform would be others. It would require a change in the Constitution and a willingness of members to give up their seats to get it accomplished. I would vote for a reduction in the size of the General Assembly.

Q) You've been criticized for voting to end the budget impasse last year in Harrisburg, siding with House Democrats.

A) Yes, I have been criticized for that, but it is obvious some folks don't know what that vote meant. By September 2009, budget negotiations had hit a wall. Our legislative leaders were on PCN live, broadcasting the budget talks. The Republican House leadership walked out of negotiations and refused to return. When the House Republicans were told in caucus that we would not return to the budget negotiation table, I stood and strenuously objected. I said at the time, that our leadership was marginalizing 98 House members. Obviously, the House Republican leadership disagreed with me. I then made a decision to contact Sen. Pat Browne and he kept me informed of the progress of the negotiations, and in the final budget product, the 2009-10 budget was $500 million dollars less that the previous year. This was a huge breakthrough with this Governor. Senate Republicans were able to keep 9 separate proposed tax increases from coming to fruition. It was a budget that U.S. Senate candidate Pat Toomey called "fiscally responsible." That was good enough for me. We had a pending crisis on our hands in October. Counties, schools, prisons and the State Police (to name a few), had not been funded. The budget had no broad-based tax increases and cut spending. It was the right thing to do. I believe in responsible government and it was time to be responsible. On a side note, you should know that the budget bill is one bill and the tax bill to support it is another. I voted NO on the tax bill. I didn't think it went far enough in the reduction of business taxes.

Q) What steps are you personally taking to avoid a devastating budget impasse like the one we suffered last year?

A) We will have another budget impasse. The Governor has said he wants a hike in the personal income tax, a hike in the sales tax, a severance tax on Marcellus Shale, a cigar and smokeless tobacco tax and a gas tax of at least 13 cents per gallon. If he insists on these, and threatens a veto, then we may see a repeat of last year. I will not vote for any of the Governor's proposals. My first effort on the budget was to let the House leaders know that I was unwilling to vote for any of the tax proposals. Sending that message now is important. If every member did that then we could avoid all the posturing that takes place during budget time.

Q) Many state reps will tell me privately that in Harrisburg, too much power is invested in just a few powerful committee chairs and leaders. Has that been your experience?

A) Yes, that has been my experience too. Here is another thought...too much power vested in some leaders who are incompetent. It is a seniority-based system. Here's just one personal example of how the legislative process works. A bill that I had authored was referred to the education committee and was eventually voted out of committee in a bipartisan vote. The legislation was then sent to Appropriations Committee. It has never seen the light of floor debate. The Appropriations Committee Chairman Dwight Evans has refused to bring the bill for a vote. The bill has sat in his committee for nearly two years. In fact, I have bills in just about every committee awaiting action, but the majority chairman and the majority leader decide if the bill ever comes to the full House for a vote. Legislation moving to the House floor for a full debate and vote is at the whim of the committee chairman. That is what is wrong with the system.

Q) Your opponent attacks you as a pawn of the teachers' union, noting you accept money from them and support public education. What's your response?

A) I do support public education. I am a product of public education, as well as, my husband and children. But, I also appreciate other avenues for educating children charter, private, parochial, cyber charter, and home schooling. I believe it is my job to do the best I can for the entire educational system. Teachers play a big role in that. I have accepted campaign money from the teacher's union, the PA Chamber of Commerce, PA Bankers Association, and other organizations, associations, PACs and many individuals. Unfortunately, campaigns run on donations...that is money. But let me be perfectly clear, NOONE has or ever will buy my vote. I know whom I work for...the residents of the 131st Legislative District.

Q) Is there anything else you'd like LVRamblings readers to know about your campaign?

A) A few people have called me a RINO. Ironically, in this primary the PA Pro-Life Federation and the NRA have endorsed me. Two organizations closely associated with republican causes. When I put on the uniform of the U.S. Air Force as an 18-year-old, I was proud to serve my country. Never would I ever have imagined that my loyalty, patriotism or dedication to the Republican Party would be questioned. But, I do consider the source. A 23-year-old opponent, who has never served his country, would never know what that means. The best decision of my life was to serve in the U.S. military. It changed the entire course of my life and I am deeply grateful to all of those great military leaders who inspired and led me.

"How to Lose a Congressional Race," by Mat Benol

First, during the only forum in which you'll get any publicity, make a point of calling jobless kids, forced to live at home, "lazy."

Second, raise practically no money at all.

Third, blow whatever little money you do have on a 12-page, 5"x7" booklet that costs a fortune to mail and only mentions your name five times. If anyone actually reads this masterpiece, he'll miss the election. Mailmen will love him, too.

Don't worry, Mat. A U.S. Senate race is right around the corner.

Pit Bulls No Longer Featured in Mafia Wars

It's been months since I've played Facebook's popular Mafia Wars. Apparently, they intended to introduce virtual pit bulls as a new class of weapon, but had second thoughts after the virtual Mafiosos objected, as noted in this recent blog from Change.

I was unaware "that pit bulls consistently pass standardized temperament tests with flying colors, several points above the average score for all breeds. Pit bulls across the country also work as therapy dogs, including many who had been abused or previously owned by dog fighters."

Apparently, the real bastards are those damn Dachshunds. My Dad had one, named Ursula, who hated everyone but him. Once, Judge Hogan dropped by and Ursula decided to be nice to him. He was petting her, and she was wagging her little tail. Little did he know she was just luring him in. The second he turned his back on her, she bit him right in the ass, tearing a nice hole in his trousers.

Small Business Pitted Against Residents in Bethlehem Zoning Dispute

When you think of Elias Farmers Market, located at 3131 Linden Street, the thought that comes to most people's minds is fresh produce at reasonable prices. But instead of tossing salad, four different lawyers tossed legal terms like "use variance," "dimensional variance," and different legal precedents during oral arguments in Northampton County Court last week. They were arguing about Elias' proposed expansion, previously approved by Bethlehem's Zoning Hearing Board in August.

Beneath all this legal parlance, Judge Edward Smith is being asked to weigh a busy produce market's desire to operate more efficiently and safely against Bethlehem homeowners concerned about the impact of a business in their backyard. Can they peacefully co-exist? Judge Smith, during the course of lengthy oral arguments, suggested several times that neighbors and Elias sit down and talk to each other. "It seems neighbors and owners have different views of what is going on," remarked Judge Smith.

Bethlehem residents Al Bernotas, Walter Ward and Guishu Fang have appealed the Bethlehem ZHB expansion approval. They, along with other expansion opponents, occupied two rows of the courtroom. On the opposite side sat several members of Bethlehem's beleaguered Zoning Hearing Board, including Chairman Gus Loupos, along with several members of the Elias family.

Ms. Fang, whose bedroom is located next to this produce market's dumpsters, previously told zoners she is awakened each morning by the alluring aroma of decaying produce. She is also disturbed by the fumes and dust of delivery trucks, and is concerned conditions will only worsen if Elias expands operations.

Pat Ward, Walter's wife, told The Bethlehem Press that this expansion is really being sought so that Elias can build a distribution center, pointing to its jump from 12 to 25 feet and three loading docks instead of just one. "They want a distribution center, and that's not allowed in a residential neighborhood. They should go up the road for that," she said, referring to the industrial park. Elias does market Middle Eastern pastries online, both to the Lehigh Valley and other U.S. regions.

Attorney David Backenstoe, speaking on behalf of these vocal expansion opponents, stressed the "horrific impact" that would be caused by a proposed 25' high building, nearly twice its current height. He also insisted this expansion would actually increase the size of the business by 200%, well beyond the 50% currently permitted. Instead of using one loading dock, there will be three. He also told Judge Smith that the two outbuildings used as a basis for computing the proposed expansion were never really used as part of the produce business. One had been rented out to a landscaper and the other had burned down.

Attorney Chris Spadoni, there at the direction of City Council, stressed this is in the "most restricted residential zoning" in Bethlehem. He argued that neither City Council nor neighbors received adequate notice of the zoning hearing, and complained that Elias actually wants to expand its business 300%.

ZHB Solicitor Mickey Thompson argued that numerous neighbors were given the chance to make their concerns known during a three hour hearing, but because they had no representation at that time, they tended to ask irrelevant questions about lottery ticket sales or whether Elias sells meat. Thompson's remarks infuriated expansion opponents, who began scribbling notes to their attorney and signaling a tipstaff.

Thompson also argued that Elias has no desire to increase the size of his business, but wants this expansion only to make the area safer. When questioned by Judge Smith about the ZHB's duty to analyze the impact of this expansion on the neighborhood, Thompson noted that they did impose conditions limiting when trash could be removed and insisting on less debris.

Attorney Joseph Piperato, representing Elias, insisted all they want to do is come out of the 40's and 50's, and that the expansion will help create a safe and efficient environment. He explained products must currently be unloaded by hand. He denies any desire to sell more products. Conceding that the market is located in a residential neighborhood, Piperato noted it is "on the fringe" and located next to Linden Street, a busy state road. He described what was occurring as part of the natural expansion that happens in business. Judge Smith stated a natural expansion is a mule path that becomes a dirt road and later, a larger road for more traffic.

"This is the same," said Piperato.

"Is it?" asked Judge Smith.

After the hearing, expansion opponents disputed a claim in the Elias brief, prepared by Attorney Piperato, that "the loading dock is so unsafe that it is not used by [Elias]." Bethlehem resident Yong Hao countered that with a video, shot the day before the hearing, showing the loading dock in operation. That video has been posted to Youtube.

The Elias' are currently out of the country, but Najwa Azar, speaking for the family, disputed many of the claims raised at last week's hearing. She denied any intention to turn the market into a distribution center. "We are not planning on storing stuff for our Allentown store," she said, adding, "We have talked to our neighbors many times. We invite them to walk inside our store and see how we work every day."

Ms. Azwar acknowledged they do continue to use the loading dock. "It is unsafe. But we use it. We have no choice," she admitted. She explained that the loading dock is located at the end of an incline, where water pools and ices up in the winter, making conditions unsafe. Five workers are required to unload one truck, holding skids "so nothing slides on us." Even with water pumps, there is always an accumulation. "We want to enclose and cover the ramp so that neighbors do not see or hear us," she noted. She added that the extra loading docks are there in case two trucks arrive at the same time.

"We are trying our best to make this building look presentable and clean. We can't do much until we improve operations," concluded Ms. Azwar.

Not all neighbors oppose this expansion. Next door neighbor Kathy Capuano, who resides at 3139 Linden Street, supports the Elias expansion. "They are nice people trying to do a good thing. I don't understand how so many neighbors can be against this. It's a shame," she stated.

Ms. Capuano worked at the market under previous previous owners and confirmed that the loading dock was unsafe even then. "What they are trying to do would only be an improvement," added Ms. Capuano.

Ironically, the Farmers Market seeking expansion is actually much smaller than it was in 1929. That's when Ms. Capuano's grand-father, John Jamon, bought an 18 acre orchard that sold apples, cherries, peaches, plums, and pears that were locally grown. His market, called Jamon Orchards, was sold to the Pichel family after his death in 1978. In 2006, the Elias family took title, minus the orchard. Many of the homes surrounding the market were originally part of that orchard.

Judge Smith gave parties a week to supplement their briefs, after which he will weigh the competing claims of a business against residents.