Today's one-liner: “In a republican nation whose citizens are to be led by reason and persuasion and not by force, the art of reasoning becomes of first importance.” T Jefferson
From Christian Pungo's Campaign Allentown, PA – Cristian Pungo, a local construction project manager, and dedicated
community advocate, has officially announced his candidacy for Allentown City Council.
With a deep commitment to the city that shaped him, Cristian Pungo is running on a
platform centered around "Building Up Allentown"—a vision that prioritizes housing and
infrastructure expansion, community investment, and increased access to economic and
educational opportunities for city residents.
Cristian proudly represents Allentown, a place that embraced his Latino heritage, and his
identity as a first-generation Latino American. "Allentown is my home. I grew up here, went
to school here, and have built my career here," said Cristian Pungo. "My parents worked
tirelessly to provide a better future for me, and that same drive is what fuels my
commitment to our city. We need leadership that listens, acts, and believes in the potential
of every resident."
Cristian Pungo currently serves as a Construction Project Engineer at Alvin H. Butz, Inc.,
overseeing projects in education, community buildings, and healthcare. His firsthand
experience in construction development has provided him with unique insight into how
thoughtful planning and strategic investment can transform a city.
Beyond his professional work, Pungo is deeply involved in the Allentown community,
serving on multiple nonprofit boards, including the United Way Emerging Leaders, the
William Allen Arts Alliance, and the William Allen Enhancement Project.
With a policy focus on community-driven economic growth, affordable housing expansion,
and infrastructure development, Cristian is committed to making Allentown a city that
works for everyone.
"We have the talent, the passion, and the drive to make Allentown thrive," said Pungo. "With
strong leadership and a focus on equity, we can ensure that no resident is left behind."
Cristian invites supporters to join the campaign and be part of the movement to "Build Up
Allentown." The campaign is hosting a Petition Kickoff Event on Tuesday, February 25, 2025,
at 6:00pm at Inkwell. in Allentown. Members of the public can register to attend the free
event through the campaign’s website. For more information, visit www.votepungo.com or
follow @votepungo on social media.
Patti Bruno has joined five other Democrats in announcing her candidacy for one of the five at-large Northampton County Council seats that will be decided by voters this year.
I feel compelled to observe at the onset that her headshot (which I've attached), looks nothing like her. I understand why someone running for office would want to present a good photo. But the airbrushed one that Bruno uses is so much unlike her that it's a tad disingenuous. This practice puts pressure on men and women to conform with an unrealistic body image. At the very least, a political candidate who feels the need to use a digitally enhanced photograph should disclose this detail.
Bruno texted me twice in December about her possible candidacy. She sat next to me when Tara Zrinski announced her candidacy for Executive. But I never received her actual announcement.
That announcement, posted on Facebook, declares that "she isn't a career politician - she's one of us." That's also false. She has been a political operative for several years and ran for office herself four years ago. She managed Amy Cozze's failed state house race, Terry Houck's failed DA's race and nearly lost the primary election when Brian Panella ran for judge.
She is an Easton resident who graduated from Temple University (political science) and a Master's from American Public University (online). She did serve a two-year stint as a Presidential Management Fellow, but her announcement fails to state how or where she is employed now.
The winners of the Democratic primary will square off against Republican incumbents John Brown and John Goffredo; Juan Martinez, who owns the popular Don Juan restaurant chain; Bethlehem police officer Sam Elias and commercial air cargo pilot and Venezuelan immigrant Dan Campo.
In July, Northampton County Council voted 8-1 (with Kelly Keegan dissenting) to pay Council Clerk Aline Shafnisky an annual salary of $107,482. Just a few short months later, when County Council adopted its budget for this year, her salary increased by $4,836. A Council Clerk works for all nine Council members, and through them, the people who put those elected officials in office. As a law school graduate, she should know that it is unlawful to use her office to play politics for certain Council members. Yet that's precisely what she did yesterday in a voice message she left with the elections office.
Three members of County Council - John Brown, John Goffredo and Lori Vargo Heffner, seek re-election. Like anyone else running for office, they must circulate nomination petitions signed by registered voters. That's their business, not the people's. It's political. But yesterday afternoon, Council Clerk Aline Shafnisky left a 36-second voice message with the elections office, asking for advice on behalf of "a couple of Council members" who wanted to be "sure they were accurately filling out the forms." She asked for a "ring back" for what is "hopefully an easy answer."
Here's an answer. It is a theft of services to engage in political activity while you are supposed to be performing the duties of your office. They do not include political activity. If you doubt me, I have one word. Bonusgate.
At the very least, Shafnisky should be admonished.
Last night, NorCo Council President Lori Vargo Heffner sent me a release indicating that she is seeking a third term as one of Northampton County's five at-large members. At-large members are countywide. The other four members are selected from four different geographical districts. (Bethlehem area, Easton area, Nazareth area and northern tier). Her release is below, but I thought I'd take this opportunity to say I'm glad she's running. Let me explain why.
First, she's a veteran. Most people, even those who run for council and get elected, have no idea what county government does. There's a two-year learning curve for most people who serve in this part-time position. With Ron Heckman stepping down, her knowledge and experience is very beneficial, not just to newer members, but to the public she serves.
Second, she's bipartisan. When Peg Ferraro served on Northampton County Council, she liked to say she was a Republican until the election was over. After that, she did what she thought was in the best interests of the people she served, even if that meant ruffling a few feathers here and there. Vargo Heffner has embraced this thinking. As President of County Council, she named Republicans to chair different committees and even voted to elect Republican John Goffredo as Vice President. We could use more, not less, of that attitude.
Third, she's independent. She's unwilling to be pressured into voting a certain way, whether it is for a voluntary employee health center or a new county building. While I disagree with her position on these matters, I think it's very important to have Council members who can think for themselves.
Fourth, she stands up for the working class. Over the Executive's objection, she insisted on a pay study for county employees that reveals most of them are stuck for years in the middle of their pay scales. She supported a responsible contractor ordinance that ensures people working in trades are paid what they are worth and are safe.
Fifth, she has weathered a barrage of personal and mean-spirited attacks during her seven years in office, most of which are based on her simple refusal to rubber stamp what the Exec wants. In fact, I half-expected her to simply bow out because it has had to have taken a personal toll. At all levels of government, Executive overreach has been a problem. She has made sure that the legislative branch has remained a separate and co-equal branch of government.
Is she flawed? Yes. There are times when she can get petty or make snide remarks and can be obstructionist at times. But we need people like her in office now more than ever.
From Lori Vargo Heffner's Campaign, Northampton County, PA (February 12, 2025): Northampton County Council President Lori Vargo Heffner will seek re-election to Northampton County Council as an At-Large member.
“I’m announcing that I will be seeking a third term to continue my service to all residents and fight for Northampton County’s working families,” said Vargo Heffner. “In addition to 7 years of no tax increases, including one tax cut, I have worked to ensure that core county services are available and accessible to all residents.”
“During my tenure I have worked across party lines to maintain quality core services, complete the P3 bridge project, and enhance good governance practices. I have led efforts to create an independent pay study for our workforce and an independent study of operations at Gracedale. I have worked with judicial services to support their service delivery needs and identify ways to collaborate on the statewide mental health population crisis in our prisons. I believe the essence of good government is to be an independent voice and work to ensure a high quality of life for all residents.”
“I have proven my experience, commitment and integrity during my seven years on Northampton County Council, and I would be honored to continue working to improve the quality of life of all of our residents,” adds Vargo Heffner.
As a member of County Council Vargo Heffner has served in a variety of leadership positions, including her current role as President, a position she has held for four years. Vargo Heffner also served two years as Vice President and Chair of the Human Services, Finance, Governance, and Election Integrity committees. She serves as the Northampton County Council liaison to the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Discover Lehigh Valley. She also serves on the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) Board as the Region 6 Representative, a position she has held for 3 years, as well as a member of CCAP’s Human Services and Court and Corrections committees. In addition, she currently serves as the President of the Pennsylvania Federation of Democratic Women.
Her accomplishments on County Council include the creation of term limits for all elected county officials, a Responsible Contracting Ordinance which ensured that County residents earn a living wage for work done in Northampton County, distribution of ARPA funds to small businesses during the COVID pandemic, and support for all farmland preservation and environmental resolutions.
A nearly 30-year resident of Northampton County, and 23-year resident of Lower Saucon Township, Vargo Heffner is a psychotherapist employed by St. Luke’s University Health Network. She earned a Bachelors degree Psychology from Moravian College, Masters degree in Counseling from Kutztown University and Masters degree in Adult and Organizational Development from Temple University. She serves on the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation and Discover Lehigh Valley Boards and is a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church where she serves as a lector and on the Liturgy Board.
Blogger's Note: Democrats Nadeem Qayyum (husband of Easton City Council member Taiba Sultana, Jason Boulette (Wind Gap Borough) David Holland (a nurse practitioner) and Theresa Fedem (Hellertown Borough Council) have also announced that they are seeking the Democratic nomination. There may be more.
(From Roger MacLean's Campaign) ALLENTOWN, PA — Former Allentown Police Chief and City Council President Roger MacLean, a lifelong Allentown resident and dedicated public servant, announced his candidacy for Lehigh County Executive, seeking the Republican nomination.
"Serving Allentown has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our county," said MacLean. "As Lehigh County Executive, I will leverage this experience to ensure effective governance and uphold the values that make our community strong."
MacLean served 39 years with the Allentown Police Department, where he rose through the ranks from cadet to chief, managing a staff of over 200 officers and a $30 million budget. Following his retirement from the police force, he worked for the District Attorney’s Office at the James B. Martin Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center for ten years and served four years on Allentown City Council, including two as President.
A proven fiscal conservative, MacLean has consistently fought to protect taxpayers. As a City Council member, he voted against a 26% tax increase and opposed the establishment of a stormwater fee.
MacLean is a staunch advocate for farmland preservation, recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in the county’s heritage and economy. He is committed to protecting farmland from overdevelopment and opposes the proliferation of unnecessary warehouses, noting the large, vacant facilities already sitting unused. Instead, MacLean supports thoughtful, strategic development aligned with the county’s long-term needs.
“Lehigh County is at a pivotal moment,” MacLean added. “We must balance growth with preserving our community’s character and values. I’ve done that throughout my career, and I’ll continue that mission as County Executive.”
MacLean holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice from DeSales University. A proud grandfather of two, with a third grandchild on the way, he attends Bethany United Methodist Church in Wescosville and remains deeply connected to the community.
"I am seeking the Republican nomination because I believe in time-tested conservative principles: responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, personal accountability, and common-sense solutions that foster growth while preserving our community’s unique character," said MacLean. "I’m ready to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the values that unite and strengthen Lehigh County."
Roger MacLean’s decades of public service, deep understanding of governance, and unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility make him uniquely qualified to serve as Lehigh County Executive. He invites the community to join his campaign to build a stronger, more prosperous county for generations to come.
Blogger's Note: MacLean joins Justin Simmons and Mike Welsh in seeking the Republican nod for Lehigh County Exec. The winner of that race will face Democrat Josh Siegel in November.
Yesterday afternoon, in the cacophonous Northampton County Courthouse rotunda, a formidable slate of Republicans announced their candidacies for the county offices to be decided by voters this November. Their point man is Tom "The Quiet Man" Giovanni, a second term Council member who has decided to take the next step and run for Executive.
Standing with him are County Council candidates John Brown and John Goffredo, both of whom are seeking re-election to a second term. Also present was political newcomer Juan Martinez, who owns the popular Don Juan restaurant chain. Two other newcomers, Bethlehem police officer Sam Elias and commercial air cargo pilot and Venezuelan immigrant, are also seeking two of the five at-large Council seats up for election this year. They were both working and unable to attend. Finally, James Fuller, who is running for Northampton County judge, introduced himself.
Giovanni, whom I have referred to as "the Quiet Man" on NorCo Council, explained he's never been interested in making headlines or playing politics, but feels "it's time to get louder" because of what he calls the dysfunction, irresponsibility and mismanagement by the county administration.
I first met Giovanni long before he ran for office. I mistook his IT business for a computer repair shop. While he was unable to help me, he referred me to a few people who could fix my ailing blog machine. In the private sector, he also served as a board member of the Greater Valley Y, including 9m years as its chair. He currently is the board chair of Nazareth Mutual Insurance.
He pledged fiscal responsibility and a rejection of tax hikes. He noted he has always voted for tax cuts and would oppose any tax increases, adding it would be unfair to burden people struggling with high prices.
He promised to end "the failed policies that have hurt Gracedale." He claimed that the Lamont McClure administration failed to maintain the quality of care at the county-owned nursing home.
Giovanni also pledged to expand farmland preservation should he prevail. "We need to work to protect family farms and keep them going from generation to generation. Also, our farmers have to have a voice in county government. Farmers are the people that put food on the table, and we need to cover theor backs."
Giovanni asserted that the McClure administration has been neither transparent nor honest over the past seven years and botched elections in 2019 and 2023.
"When you are elected, you must represent everyone, no matter if they voted for you or not. Unfortunately, what we are seeing in the county government is political weaponizing the office instead of working jointly for bipartisan results to work for the progress of the morale of the county employees. And I did vote for a pay study."
"I will continue to wake up every day to fight for the county that I love so much."
John Brown, a former county executive and Bangor Mayor, is finishing hie first term. He graduated from Bangor High School and the University of Notre Dame.
He stated that, when he was Executive, he worked to make sure that Gracedale, a 688-bed facility (current census is 546), had a 97% occupancy rate. He said his reforms eliminated multi-million-dollar losses and returned the facility to profitability while earning a four-star rating.
He complained that the McClure administration is responsible for two failed elections in 2019 and 2023. He added that McClure has also undone most of the improvements he made as Executive. "They have spent down most of the county's reserves," he charged, asserting that the county drained its rainy-day fund just to be able to balance the budget. He also slammed the county for failing to replace failing infrastructure like the parking deck on the courthouse campus, and then "plunge the county into debt to do so."
His final and most egregious indictment is that the administration has allowed Gracedale "to fall into financial and operational ruin with a 425-bed census with only 30% of the nursing staff [as] county employees.
John Goffredo, a slate belt businessman seeking a second term, has lived in NorCo his entire life. A coach and volunteer firefighter, he said "a lack of leadership in general" is what has prompted him to run again. "We have too many people who are followers or opportunists or activists seeking these positions and not people that are here to do the will of the citizenry and to do what's right, even when it's politically inconvenient." Though he is a Republican in a 6-3 Democratic Council, he was elected VP in January. He said that as a member of the minority, he has mostly played defense, "trying to stop things I thought were bad ideas, things that were pushed over every year, every time they got the opportunity to bring up the same issue. We have to sit there and argue for months as to why we thought it was a bad idea. He argued that with a Republican majority on county council, they would be able to "get back to the things that matter."
Thise include the county core functions, like elections. He noted botched elections in 2019 and 2023, with machine malfunctions and vote-flipping. He also pointed to 6-hour long lines in the 2024 Presidential. "All of those things are unacceptable. We don't have that many responsibilities as a county government. We have the courts, we have the jails, we have elections with human services. If we can't get elections right, we're failing the most important task this government has."
Goffredo stated that a Republican majority County Council would introduce a new "culture of excellency."
Unfortunately, and as a direct result of the incompetence of my videographer (me), I could only upload this announcement as a YouTube short video.
Martinez, said he worked hard to build something from the ground, creating jobs and opportunities while contributing to the local economy. But he said that, along the way, he's encountered a government that imposes roadblocks instead of finding solutions.
He said he would bring common sense and accountability as well as a leadership that listens and works hard. He would work to support small business, lower taxes, responsible budgets, safer communities and better infrastructure. Most importantly, he pledged to bring a county government that works for the people.
He introduced his wife and two sons, who joined him for his announcement. When finished, he invited everyone to his restaurant on Third Street (he has five of them) for tacos and margaritas.
That was a generous gesture, but I am a highly conditioned, well-trained athlete, so I demurred.
Fuller stated that he's been a resident of Northampton County since he was a child. He went through the Easton school system and graduated from Penn State. He at first worked for KidsPeace, where he met his wife of 15 years. They have two boys who attend Northampton schools and he coaches baseball, soccer and basketball. His soccer team went undefeated, but his basketball team is 2-7.
He has practiced criminal law in Monroe County for nearly 10 years, 7 as a public defender and two as a prosecutor. "My message to everyone is that I'm in court every day." He has tried 13 jury trials, 10 of which are felony trials. He feels that running for judge is the best way to give back to a community that has given him so much.
Denmarkification. That's how a group of Denmark citizens are describing a movement to purchase California from the United States. They believe it's time to "Måke Califørnia Great Ægain." Why, for one thing, they want to trade in rain boots for 300 days of sun in flip flops. They think Donald Trump might sell, too, since he has called it the "most ruined state in the union."
If successful, initial plans include re-naming Disneyland to Hans Christian Andersonland. They need just 200,000 kroner from every Dane.
FROM MIKE WELSH CAMPAIGN (Allentown, PA) Today, Mike Welsh, a longtime Lehigh County resident and small business owner announced his candidacy for Lehigh County Executive.
“It’s an honor to step up to represent the County that I have had the privilege of calling home,” said Welsh. “Lehigh County has given me incredible opportunities — it’s where I’ve raised my family, run a small business, and served my community both in and out of office. Now, as our county grapples with new challenges and faces an uncertain future, it’s time for a steady hand and strong leadership.
“I know how to fight on behalf of residents and taxpayers. When I served as one of the few conservatives on the Allentown School Board, I fought against tax increases and wasteful spending while also working with both sides to get things done for students. And as a small business owner, I know the challenges that taxpayers and working families are facing in our county. I’m looking forward to fighting tax increases, supporting our local law enforcement, ending our status as a sanctuary county, and restoring common sense to the Lehigh County government.”
Welsh also highlighted another critical factor in this race: keeping Lehigh County out of the hands of out-of-touch, left-wing radicals.
“Make no mistake, Josh Siegel is an extremist, an opportunist, and a danger to the people of Lehigh County,” said Welsh. “This career politician has run for five offices in seven years, only ever completing a single two-year term in the process. In between running for office, he’s amassed a record of supporting a myriad of far left positions. He has supported over $100,000,000 million in new taxes on Lehigh County residents, sending social workers to respond to 911 calls, ‘decolonizing the education system,’ and defunding the police. Josh Siegel has no business running the government of Lehigh County.
Mike Welsh is originally from Paoli, Pennsylvania and is a 1985 graduate of DeSales University with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management. Welsh has had a near 40 year career in insurance 21 years with Liberty Mutual Insurance in Allentown and for the last 11 years as owner of AC Thompson Insurance in Allentown.
Welsh is a former Allentown School Board Director with a proven record of fighting for fiscal responsibility with a focus on providing the best outcomes for ASD Students. Welsh is the past board president of the Liberty Bell Shrine Museum and the Allentown Flag Day Association. Welsh has been active in the DeSales University Alumni for many years and is a member of the St Catharine of Siena Cathedral Choir in Allentown for over 30 years. Welsh resides in Allentown with his wife Nancy, also a 1985 graduate of DeSales University. They have 3 children and are proud to call Allentown home.
Blogger's Note: Welsh has a primary opponent, Justin Simmons. Now that Welsh has announced, Simmons should back out of this race.
Donald Trump is the first sitting President to have ever attended a Super Bowl game. Though I dislike both him and his policies, I like the idea of the nation's leader attending an event that attracts the interest of most of the nation. It brings us all together. But when he picks a winner, as he did here when he picked Kansas City to beat the Eagles in a pre-game interview on Fox, he divides us.
Fortunately, he was wrong, as most of you will learn he is about many things.
Late last month, the Trump administration's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) imposed what it calls a temporary "pause" (you can read it here) on all federal financial assistance programs, at least to the extent permissible by law. This was supposedly being done to stop "financial assistance for foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, DEI, woke gender ideology, and the green new deal." The memo was rescinded after widespread confusion, but a White House spokesperson claims that a federal funding freeze remains in "full force and effect." So the sword of Damocles still hangs over the heads of state governments, local governments, nonprofits and the people who rely on these institutions for help.
Trump cultists love it. "Too many unjustly live off the government' Huge wake up call. Loving it." said one of my readers who is unaware that he, too, relies on this aid for many of the services he has come to expect, like police protection in Bethlehem. In a news conference, Mayor Willie Reynolds relies on $43.4 million from the federal government and budgets accordingly.
At last week's Northampton County Council meeting, Executive Lamont McClure explained what impact this freeze, if it really goes into effect, will have on the county. He indicated that, while this freeze supposedly would have no impact on funds that go directly to individuals (food stamps, social security), individuals who are cared for and assisted by federal dollars would have suffered.
Approximately 954 county employees - half of its workforce - are paid either fully or partially by federal dollars. The county would be forced to immediately furlough 610 workers, and they represent 72% of Human Services staff. These are the people who answer suicide calls and respond to complaints of child abuse and neglect. They are the people who protect seniors from predators who steal from them. It would have also hurt those who care for Gracedale's residents.
To make up the deficit in federal funds, the county would need to triple its current tax rate from 10.8 to 32 mills.
Human Services Director Sue Wandalowski noted that 20,000 people called crisis hotlines in 2023 and 2024.
By a 7-2 vote, Northampton County Council voted last night to approve a $35 million bond that would finance a new parking deck at the courthouse campus, a new radio system for first responders, other county projects at the jail and to purchase assets currently under lease. Voting No were Council members John Brown and John Goffredo. The Yes votes came from Council members Ken Kraft, Kelly Keegan, Jeff Warren, Jeff Corpora, Lori Vargo Heffner, Ron Heckman and Tom Giovanni.
Brown complained that no plans were ever presented to Council for the new parking deck even though detailed plans were presented in July and discussed several times. In fact, after those plans were presented, Goffredo insisted he could bring in an expert t show that there was no need for a new parking deck. That never happened, and even Goffredo last night acknowledges that a new parking deck is needed.
He was still skeptical because a parking deck would cost about $21 million but the bond is for $35 million. "We're cutting a blank check and we don't know what we're getting," he said. Public Works Director Mike Emili said that the county could spend about a half million to get more refined estimates, but any savings would be lost by waiting for the bond.
Financial Advisor Scott Shearer told Council that $6 million of the $35 million would pay for the purchase of energy conservation assets currently under lease. He added that bonds would not be sold until March or April. The bonds would be repaid over 16 years.
Council member Jeff Warren produced a picture of a car damaged by falling concrete in the deck. "This is a vehicle. I don't want it to be a family walking into this building. It's a public safety hazard, straight up."
Last week, ICE officials picked up a suspected Venezuelan gang member on his release from NorCo's jail after serving a misdemeanor sentence of 3-6 months for a sexual offense related to a person under 16. This Venezuelan is in this country illegally and is subject to deportation. According to The Morning Call, an ICE news release claimed that an immigration detainer, which is essentially a request that they be notified 48 hours before someone is released, was ignored.
Executive Lamont McClure explained at last night's NorCo County Council meeting last night what actually happened. "I believe that an undocumented person who also commits crimes, if ICE wants them, to deport them, they should be able to deport them. He said the county devised a procedure in which it will hold an undocumented immigrant for 48 hours after the sentence is served to give ICE an opportunity to determine if they want to take an undocumented criminal. The county will hold the immigrant an additional further 48 hours if ICE obtains a warrant signed by a federal magistrate. "If they don't have that, they are released at the date and time they're released, and ICE can pick them up on the corner." He added that "people who are here unlawfully and commit crimes should be deported, but there are also constitutional limitations."
In July, I told you that Gracedale's (NorCo's nursing home) CMS rating had jumped from two (below average) to three stars (average). Executive Lamont McClure stated as recently as last night that he has warned staff against "chasing stars" because the nursing home will never reach five stars (above stars). This is because the facility includes residents who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer's, and they are treated with psychotropic drugs disdained by CMS. Despite these admonitions, McClure was happy to report last night that Gracedale's rating has jumped from three to four stars.
Given that the families of prospective residents use the CMS rating as a guide for selecting a nursing home, this higher rating should increase the current census of 456 residents in a home with a maximum capacity of 688.
At last night's meeting of NorCo Council, McClure also explained why Jennifer Stewart is no longer Administrator. She's still at Gracedale, but now directs the Admissions office. McClure moved her there because she's "an expert at getting the census up." This results in more revenue to the home and less of a need for a county contribution.
Council member John Brown insisted last night that Gracedale's operational expenses exceed revenue, but McClure disputed that argument last night. It is certainly true that the county does rely on an annual IGT (intergovernmental transfer) grant to fund the facility.
Human Services Director Sue Wandalowski told County Council that the home is now the possibility of performing dialysis in-house, which would decrease the need to send residents to the hospital and increase revenue.
Gracedale is also in the process of getting a daycare license for employees with children.
Campaign finance reports for 2024 are in. Here's what they tell us about the Northampton County Exec candidates Tara Zrinski (D), Amy Cozze (D) and Tom Giovanni (R).
Cozze had no active committee prior to announcing her campaign for Executive. Thus, she has no obligation to disclose her finances until May 9, when her pre-primary report is due.
Zrinski's report (you can see it here) reveals that she is starting 2025 with roughly $5,000. She raised $6700 in 2024, with her largest contributors being former Executive Glenn Reibman ($1,000) and her Solicitor, Steve Goudsouzian ($1,000). She did receive a total of $1,000 form IUOE Local 542 but refunded $500.
Starting in December, she used campaign finances to pay a small sum for HULU streaming service. It is unclear to me what connection that has to her campaign activities. She explained that this was an error because her paypal account was linked to her campaign account. She has since disconnected this link so that there will be no additional errors.
Tom Giovanni (you can see his report here) started 2025 with the same $535 he reported in 2024. He neither raised nor spent any money.
Grace Crampsie Smith, a member of Bethlehem City Council, announced last week that she is running for Mayor. I expected a similar announcement from incumbent Willie Reynolds, but he and many other local government officials were dealing with the confusion caused by an OMB freeze on federal spending, which was later rescinded. Though he's made no announcement, I expect him to run. I'm unsure whether any Republicans are up for it, but I expect to see a Democratic primary. Campaign finance reports for last year are in, and they can certainly shed some light on who is backing them and why.
Reynolds report (you can read it here) reveals that he pulled in $94,400 in campaign contributions last year, although $40,000 of that is a loan to himself. He starts the election year with a $96.951.30 treasury.
Contributions of $1,000 or more came from the following sources: KTMC PAC - $5000 (I believe this is a law firm that specializes in class action lawsuits; Matthew Bieber - $5,000 (software consultant); Richard Master -$5,000 (a business owner who has produced two documentaries about healthcare; Randy Galliotto (owner of Alloy5 architectural firm); Jack and Marian Spirk - $3,000 (Spirk is City Solicitor); Murat Guzal - $2,500 (Turkish businessman who is both a philanthropist and Democratic donor); Bob Donchez - $2,500 (Reynolds' predecessor as Mayor); Jim Broughal - $2,000 (Bethlehem lawyer specializing in municipal law); Plamenta Ayazou - $2,000 (Monocacy Builders); Diana Morganelli - $2,000 (Judge Morganelli's wife); King Spry - $1,500 (Bethlehem law firm); Borko Milosev - $1,000 (property manager); Kevin Kinross - $1,000 (Democratic strategist and business leader from Pittsburgh); Charles Marcon - $1,000 (construction); IBEW - $1,000; and Placido Corpora - $1,000 (Bethlehem businessman).
Crampsie Smith's report (you can read it here) tells us she has $30,415.29 available and that she raised $23,630 in 2024. Most of this - $16,000 - comes from trade unions IUPAT, IUOE, IBEW: Plumbers; and Laborers Local 1174. She also received $1,000 from Donald Kaas (commercial lawyer).
Please feel free to review the links to these reports and make any observations you think relevant about these contributors or their interest. This is what I call participatory journalism.
This Thursday, Northampton County Republicans will unveil a slate of candidates for both the open County Executive seat as well as five at-large County Council races. They will do so from the county courthouse rotunda at 2:30 pm.
As I previously told you, Tom "the Quiet Man" Giovanni is seeking the Republican nod for Exec. He currently represents the northern tier of the county (Region 4) on NorCo Council, which is easily its most conservative district. He is in his second term, and when he ran for re-election, Democrats offered no opposition.
In addition to Giovanni, John Brown and John Goffredo are two at-large Council members seeking re-election. Brown is a former county executive and currently works as Macungie's borough manager. Brown has missed quite a few council and committee meetings.
Goffredo is easily County Council's most outspoken and conservative member. Although I disagree with him on nearly everything, I like the energy and passion he brings to Council.
The other three Republicans running at-large are Sam Elias, Bethlehem police officer; Juan Martinez, owner of the Don Juan restaurants in this area; and Daniel Campo, a cargo airline pilot and Venezuelan immigrant.
Giovanni will square off in the general election against either Tara Zrinski or Amy Cozze, both of whom are seeking the Democratic nomination. The field of Democratic County Council candidates is still unsettled, but I hope to be able to report on that soon.
Former State Rep. Justin Simmons announced yesterday that he is seeking the Republican nomination for Lehigh County Exec. He probably will have company. Former Allentown City Council member Roger MacLean is reportedly also seeking the GOP nod.
The winner of that race will take on State Rep. Joshua Siegel, who has previously announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination.
“I have a proven pro-taxpayer record of fighting for common-sense ideas and needed government reforms that I will bring to Lehigh County’s government.” Simmons explains. “I’m a common-sense person. I think County Government can do more with less. This I can promise you…As your County Executive, I will never sign a budget that increases taxes, I will always support our law enforcement, and I will keep local zoning decisions where they belong…. with locally elected municipal officials.”
After spending 5 years in the private sector and successfully overcoming health issues that his previous opponents used as political fodder against him because he missed some time to seek treatment for his health, Simmons is now determined more than ever to give Lehigh County residents a new pro-taxpayer voice they deserve.
From Ron Beitler's campaign:Lehigh County Commissioner Ron W. Beitler has
announced his candidacy for re-election. Beitler represents District
2, which includes Lower & Upper Macungie, Upper & Lower
Milford Townships, as well as the Boroughs of Alburtis &
Macungie.
Beitler
is completing his first term on the County Board of Commissioners
after previously serving 2 terms as a Lower Macungie Commissioner,
including time as Board President. He also currently serves as Chair
of the County Farmland Preservation Board.
Over
12 years of public service, Beitler has prioritized farmland and open
space preservation, noting that Lehigh County recently surpassed the
milestone of 28,000 acres of preserved farmland across more than 400
farms. "Over
the past three years, we've achieved historic success in preserving
farmland and open space, and I remain committed to leading this
effort for the future," Beitler
said. Lehigh County now ranks among the top five counties in
Pennsylvania for both the total number of farms and the acreage of
preserved farmland.
Beitler
applies lessons from successfully building and running multiple
businesses to his approach in government.'Financial
solvency is the foundation of long-term prosperity,' Beitler
said.
'I’ve built businesses with that principle in mind, and I bring the
same approach to decisions in government.'
Additionally,
Beitler remains committed to reducing the burden of government on the
economy including small businesses that drive the local economy."I
know the challenges entrepreneurs face. Too often, government becomes
a barrier rather than a partner in helping businesses grow and
thrive" Beitler
said.
During
his tenure in Lower Macungie, Beitler led an innovative effort to
implement a homestead exemption, significantly reducing or
eliminating residential property taxes for most homeowners in the
township. Today
he highlights that Lehigh County has not raised taxes during his time
on the board. 'In
a time of economic uncertainty, rising costs of living, and surging
home prices, keeping government spending in check remains a top
priority,'
Beitler said." Beitler
also co-sponsored a successful countywide tax rebate for volunteer
firefighters.
Additional
priorities for a 2nd term include re-focusing Lehigh County
Government on core, everyday quality of life and kitchen-table issues
such as infrastructure, housing costs, parks and public safety
including police, firefighters and EMS.
Beitler,
46, is a 4th generation Lehigh County resident, girl dad and small
business owner.
"If District 2 residents give me the opportunity to continue
serving, I'll continue to work to ensure Lehigh County remains a
place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and government
is efficient, responsive, and accountable to the people.”
I thought I'd take a break from my usual political stories to share a lesson in humility. As anyone who reads this blog knows, I can be arrogant and condescending. It's understandable in some people who are gifted with extraordinary abilities, but I am not one of those people. I was recently reminded of my own shortcomings by someone who lives in my building.
I live among a large number of people who are either old farts like me or have some sort of disability. Most of them are quite nice, certainly nicer than me. I thought perhaps one or more of them might be interested in playing chess with me, so I began walking down the hallway with board in hand, searching for an easy mark.
Most demurred, saying they only play checkers. But there was one guy, I'll call him K, who was eager to play me.
K, who is at least 6'5", looks very much like a NFL running back. Perhaps that's because he played that position with the Frankford Chargers in Philly. One day, in downtown Philly, he was jumped from behind by a bunch of thugs who took whatever small amount of money he had on him. Because he's so big, the only way they were going to get him down was by hitting him on the head. Hard. K went down and was left for dead. He was hospitalized and though he had a miraculous recovery, he suffered serious brain damage. He's unable to drive as a result. I also noticed that, when he would play simple games like Bingo, he constantly got mixed up.
I thought I'd humor K by playing a game of chess with him.
He clobbered me.
Not once, not twice, but five times so far. Turns out that he loves chess and played it all the time in Philly. While he may have suffered a serious brain injury, it has had no impact on his ability to checkmate me in 10 moves.
When I'm down a piece or two, I usually resign. But he tells me to keep playing.
"As long as you have pieces, you can still win."
"Remember, you can turn a lowly pawn into a queen."
Thanks to K, I'm becoming a better chess player. But I'm still arrogant.
