Gun Control: Bits and Pieces

U.S. Constitution, Second Amendment: "A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed."

Pa. Constitution, Art. 1, Sec. 21: "The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the State shall not be questioned."

Lehigh University Constitutional Law Professor George A Nation: "Until the recent Heller case the Second Amendment was interpreted to protect the right to "keep and bear arms" only in the militia (National Guard today) context. In Heller, in 2009, five of the Justices found that the Second Amendment protected an individual right to keep and bear arms, including specifically a handgun for self-protection unrelated to any type of militia service. But even the five in the majority made clear that the right is limited-- that is, it is not a right to possess any type of weapon.

"The opinion specifically recognizes the common limitations we have today - a ban on fully automatic weapons, switch blades, bazookas - as well as common place limitations - no guns in court houses, schools, planes, etc. There also can be limitations on who may possess guns."

NorCo DA John Morganelli on balanced Gun Control: "Without a doubt, millions of law-abiding people possess guns for self protection, and enjoy them recreationally. But criminals and disturbed and confused people often use them to tragic and devastating effect. Liberals tend to want to ban all guns and portray gun owners as 'rednecks'; On the other extreme, the gun lobby asserts that virtually any gun regulation is a threat to their constitutional rights. There must be a sensible middle to these issues, and majority of people want a balanced approach."

Mike Topping, President of NorCo Federation of Sportsmen (7,000 members): "Although oust, if not all, sportsmen are against any possible government infringement on their ability to own and use firearms, many also agree that some reasonable controls are appropriate:

1. Fully automatic weapons should require a special law for ownership, as is currently the case.

2. Persons who are criminals or mentally challenged should not have access to firearms.

3. When not in use, firearms should be locked up or placed in a secure area, out of the reach of children.

Cabela's to Boycott State's Largest Gunshow: Organizer of the event, scheduled next month in Harrisburg, have banned the sale of assault rifles and high capacity magazines. Cabela's released this statement on Facebook:

Due to recent changes made by Reed Exhibitions regarding the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show, Cabela’s will no longer sponsor this year’s event. After careful consideration regarding Cabela’s business practices, and the feelings of our customers, Cabela’s will, unfortunately, not have a presence at the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show.

DA's White Collar Prosecution Draws Thanks in Bethlehem Township

BT Manager Howard Kutzler Will Take No Per Diem

Following a nearly week long trial earlier this month, a Northampton County jury convicted two Scranton area businessmen of stealing nearly $832,000 from Bethlehem Township. Instead of buying street lights from PPL, as promised, this duo spent large sums of money on themselves. Instead of passing this complicated case off to one of his assistants, District Attorney John Morganelli tried the case himself. He may not know this, but his efforts were recognized at the January 21 meeting of the Township's Board of Commissioner.

President Paul Weiss publicly thanked the veteran prosecutor for his hard work. "We recognize that white collar cases are hard to prove," Weiss acknowledged.

This Scranton pair - Robert Kearns and Patrick "P.J." McLaine - will be sentenced on March 15, and Weiss intends to read a victim impact statement for the Township.

In other business, Commissioners unanimously approved dental offices on a 1.34 acre tract located along the southeast intersection of Freemansburg Avenue and Farmersville Road. With this green light, Dr. Charles Wolfe will relocate his Linden Street offices to a 2-story, 8,000 sq. ft. building with 33 parking spaces.He plans to start as soon as possible.

Commissioners also established a "fire relations committee" to pursue joint ventures with the township's two fire companies in the hope that it will save money. The Committee will be made up of nine members, including the Fire Marshall, two commissioners and three members from each fie company.

Finally, the Board unanimously agreed to send Township Manager Howard Kutzler to a four-day planning conference in Chicago. Instead of seeking a per diem, Kutzler told Commissioners he'd pay for his own meals and ground transportation. After the meeting, Kutzler explained that since taxpayers help fund his planning certification, he feels obliged to do his part as well.

This contrasts sharply with the Pennsylvania legislature. State lawmakers who live more than 50-miles away from the state capitol can seek complete reimbursement for food, lodging and other expenses, without even being required to produce receipts.

Commissioner will meet again on Monday, February 4, 7 PM, at the Municipal Building located at 4225 Easton Avenue.

Dent Calls On Congress to Work Together

LV Congressman Charlie Dent: "Today as we celebrate the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Barack Obama was sworn in for his second term as the President of our United States. Dr. King's Dream continues to be a great statement on the possibilities that are available to all our citizens.

"I wish President Obama and his family success and happiness as he begins his second term. I believe the entire country has a dream that its politicians will work together to solve the big problems facing us. The American people do not fear solutions; they fear their elected leaders do not have the capacity to find the answers. We must do better."

A Sportsman's View On Gun Control

Mike Topping should be either a sportsman or environmentalist. He lives at the far end of Saucon Park, surrounded by a sea of green, even at the height of Winter. As luck would have it, he is both. He is Chairman of Northampton County's Open Space Committee and the President of the County's "Federation of Sportsmen," which consists of 17 clubs and over 7,000 members. His opinions are his own. He warns 7,000 sportsmen will have 14,000 opinions. In a wide-ranging interview over good coffee at his Saucon Park home, he spoke about the Second Amendment and the need for gun control.

Second Amendment

According to Topping, the Second Amendment is the foundation of all of our individual freedoms. "They can all be set aside if we don't have the power to forcibly resist a government action we feel is wrong and illegal," he stated. As an example, he noted that the KKK would pass by the home of someone who possessed a shotgun.

Assault Rifles

Topping is also mystified by the clamor to ban assault rifles, i.e. semi-automatics. Those are rifles that will fire when the trigger is pulled. He points out that real assault rifles, i.e. fully automatic guns, are already illegal. He also noted that it is illegal to use a semi-automatic rifle for hunting in Pennsylvania. They may only be used for target practice and personal protection.

"There's a certain amount of Madison Avenue behind these assault rifles," Topping states. "But if you take the mechanics out and put them into a nice wooden stock, it will look more like a hunting rifle."

High Capacity Magazines

"That's a tough one," Topping notes. He notes that the seven-bullet limit imposed by a recent New York law is completely unworkable because most gun manufacturers sell ten-bullet magazines with every type of gun.

"Ten is the magic number," Topping noted. "What they did in New York was done by people who don't know anything about guns."

The Obama proposal limits magazines to ten rounds.

Gun Show Loophole and Background Checks

"We don't have that in Pennsylvania," says Topping, noting that a background check is still needed.

He supports increased scrutiny.

"Background checks should be as intrusive as possible," states Topping, noting that the "mental area" needs the most work. "Society has a right to be protected from persons who should not carry firearms."

We Have a Violence Problem

According to Topping, what people identify as a gun problem is really a "violence problem" that extend to video games and even toy guns. "Personally, I don't think toy guns that look real should be sold," he recommends.

Topping notes that women are joining sportsmen clubs more than any other group precisely because there is a violence problem.

He would support increased penalties for gun law violations and agrees that more protection most be offered at any large gathering of people, from schools to hospitals.

Hellertown Sportsmen May Offer Facilities to Teachers

Although numerous details must be worked out, Hellertown Sportsmen want to offer their facilities to provide free training to Saucon Valley teachers. "Any large institution should have people who have security training," notes Topping.

Armstrong: Republicans Must Speak Truth to Power

Allentown conservative Scott Armstrong is at again, with another pithy little essay about Republicans. Here's what he says:

Over the years, the term “speak truth to power” has been used by different groups, causes and movements to promote change and/or challenge oppressive authority. Although Liberals believe they have exclusive rights to this phrase it is time for the Republican Party to take it up and use it as a battle cry against the unethical union of the main stream media and the Democratic Party. This pernicious alliance presents opinion as news and propaganda as reporting to achieve and consolidate power. Together they have become a powerful, almost unstoppable force in the country. Left unchecked and unchallenged, there is little doubt they will sweep aside the remaining vestiges of the founders’ small government, personal responsibility vision of America. In its place they will finalize a European-style high tax, low growth, big government, caretaker bureaucracy.

Time is running out for the Republicans. They must find an effective means to communicate to the American people the value of their small government beliefs and the very real dangers posed by the alliance of the press and a political party. Republicans must once and for all understand that a media aligned against them cannot be accommodated and must be treated as adversaries. Average Americans must understand the partisan press is doing a disservice to the profession, the truth, and the public. To prevail, Republicans must confront the media Democratic Party axis; they must speak the truth to power now.

Personally, I think it's time for Republicans to do a little more listening and a little less speaking.

Anti-Westboro Baptist Church Group Tops 100

Westboro Baptist Church, designated by The Southern law Poverty Center as a hate group, supposedly intends to spread that message at four area churches tomorrow. This group is notorious for announcing "God Hates Fags" protests and then not showing up. So I'll believe this when I see it.

Kate Wilgruber, a patient advocate and security manager at the Allentown Women's Center, has organized a counter-protest at Facebook, and over 100 people have signed up.

But in the meantime, Westboro Baptist is now claiming it will be demonstrating in Kansas and Virginia instead of here. Helpful Allentown police have also informed Wilgruber that she needs a permit to exercise the First Amendment in the Queen City, which must be applied for ten days in advance of an event.

Prendergast: Loser Wants to Be Winner

Over the past two years, Easton Attorney Tim Prendergast has lost 200 pounds. He should be quite proud of that accomplishment. But now, instead of losing, he'd like to win the District Judge seat vacated by Gay Elwell.

Like Antonia Grifo, Prendergast is also the son of a prominent Easton luminary. His father is the late Jim Prendergast, who was both an attorney and a State Representative from Easton.

After graduating from Dickinson Law School (that's where I went), Tim has practiced law in Easton for the past 10 years. He is also a part-time Public Defender.

I missed Tim's announcement. But he claims in a news release that his grandparents and sister, in addition to his father, were involved in public service. I'm embarrassed to say I don't know who these people are, but will try to find out.

Eight generations of his family were baptized at the former St. Bernard's Church, which was named after me.

In addition to fellow Grifo, this judicial slot is also being sought by Easton Code Officer Sharbel Koorie and Constable Lance Wheeeler.

Dent: An Argument For Bi-Partisanship

LV Congressman Charlie Dent (as quoted in The Morning Call): "When your house is on fire, you have to stop arguing about the escape routes," he said. "At some point you have to choose one and move forward."

Suicide by Hammer?

As ridiculous as it might sound, the conclusion was inescapable. Williams Township resident Michael C. Muretta was found in his basement, unconscious, on August 29. There was obvious evidence of blunt force trauma to his head, and he died later that day at St. Luke's Hospital. Obviously, foul play was suspected. But in a news conference yesterday, District Attorney John Morganelli reported that the death has been ruled a suicide. This is the result of a painstaking investigation by Pennsylvania State Police.

How did they reach this conclusion?

First, there was no sign of forced entry to the home, which was locked. There was an open window, but investigators found no evidence it had been used for access.

Second, a review of his cell phone, answering machine messages and neighbor interviews produced no evidence that anyone wanted to harm him.

Third, family members and his employer reported that he had been despondent in the days immediately before his death.

Fourth, had there been an assailant, DA Morganelli stated that there would be a "void" in the blood splatter evidence. Some of the blood would have splattered onto the assailant instead of the floor and wall.

Fifth, there were five or six hammer blows to the head, but they were all to the same exact spot. Had Muretta been murdered, there would likely be blows to different areas of the head and body, as the victim would have tried to evade the violence.

Sixth, Muretta had a history of emotional trouble. In 1986, he faced charges in New Jersey after entering someone's home and stabbing him in the abdomen. Muretta was acquitted as a result of insanity, and was committed for three years. He was seeing a psychologist over the last two years, but stopped taking medication prescribed for depression and schizophrenia. His family was growing increasingly concerned.

The records in this matter were reviewed by a crime assessment consultant in Montrose, who also concluded that this was a self-inflicted death.

Morganelli speculated that Muretta may have been experiencing delusions, which would include voices inside his head. People who experience that sometimes bang their head against a wall to rid themselves of the voices. Morganelli postulates that Muretta may have tried to remove the voices with a hammer.

If so, he succeeded.

"Mental illness is not rational," Morganelli concluded.

Mike Fleck Will Not Seek Re-Election to Easton City Council

Mike Fleck with his video guru, Mick Dee

For as long as I've been blogging, I've been picking on political and business consultant, Easton City Council member, Pawlowski campaign manager and occasional lounge singer Mike Fleck. So you can imagine my surprise when he invited me to visit him at his Allentown consulting biz yesterday. Ron Angle warned me it was a trap, and that once I walked in there, Pawlowski would jump out of a closet with a tomahawk. But aside from seeing my picture on a dartboard, the eleven people in that office were polite.

It was an expansive interview, and I'll share those details on Monday. But for now, I want you to know that Fleck told me he has decided against running for re-election to Easton City Council. "I have no desire to be an elected official ever again," he told me.

Part of the reason is his consulting business, which is taking up more and more of this time. Another big reason is his five-year old son, a basketball star in training. He wants to see his son play as he gets older, and I can understand that completely.

Every second we miss is a second we'll never get back.

Fleck added that he and his wife are seriously considering a move to Allentown, since that's where both of them work.

I'll have more on Monday.

I did check my car before leaving Allentown.

Are LC Comm'rs Taking Aim at Affordable Housing Trust?

Lehigh County collects and spends about $300,000 per year for its affordable housing trust fund. According to CACLV Exec Director Alan Jennings, Commissioners plan to kill it at their January 23 meeting.

Jennings has sent an email asking people to speak up for this program.

Friends –

Please do not put this aside without making sure you have placed this coming Wednesday, January 23, at 7:30 PM on your calendar.

That is the date and time of the next meeting of the Lehigh County Commissioners. The group who threatened to turn away federal funds that taxpayers had already paid and sent to Washington, that has turned away other grants, and is talking about abandoning the Green Future Fund that voters adopted by referendum by a margin of 2 to 1, is now proposing killing the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

This fund was adopted more than 20 years ago after the state gave counties the authority to raise fees to record deeds and mortgages from $13.50 each to $27 each. That’s right, someone buys a property for $300,000 and the county tacks on all of $27 for affordable housing efforts in the county. This fee is not a burden; nobody could credibly argue that it hurts a single transaction. But it generates approximately $300,000 per year to intervene in a hellacious economy that denies thousands and thousands of people access to the housing market. It was signed into law by a Republican county executive (Jane Baker) and embraced by Republicans and Democrats alike for all these years.

Tom Creighton is the commissioner who is leading the way. It is up to us to block that way. PLEASE do not take this lightly!

I look forward to a strong contingent to attend the January 23 meeting of the Commissioners.

Alan

Bob Freeman: Keep Lottery Here

Which of these two just won the lottery?

Plans to privatize the Pennsylvania State Lottery system are being questioned by State Rep. Bob Freeman. He joined over 45 Democratic State House colleagues at a Capitol news conference this week to reiterate their concern about the governor's quick decision to award the management of the state lottery to a private firm based in the United Kingdom.

The Pennsylvania Lottery was first established in 1971. It funds older Pennsylvanians with the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, free and reduced-fare transit; low-cost prescription drug programs known as PACE and PACENET, long-term living services as well as 53 area agencies on aging and senior centers throughout the state. But Governor Corbett has stated that privatization will give him another $50 million for these programs.

Freeman is unswayed.

"There is no need to privatize the lottery," Freeman said. "The Pennsylvania Lottery is the most successful state lottery in the nation. With profits of $1 billion, that funding goes directly to programs for senior citizens. It has increased profits substantially in the last few years and has proven to be a well-maintained program.

"The expansion that Camelot, the private management firm, promises to develop is something that can be handled in-house. We don't need to divert funding from programs for Pennsylvania seniors to hire a private management firm to tell us how to run the operation. Instead of wasting millions of dollars on consultants, let's make sure that money goes to benefit senior citizens directly.

"Beyond these concerns, there are others, such as the limited legislative oversight and the many unanswered questions that still remain with the governor's contract. This week's Senate committee meeting was lacking in answers. I hope these items can be addressed when the House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee explores the privatization plan next week," Freeman said.

Inky columnist John Baer has questioned why Governor Corbett would want to fix something that isn't broken.

Rate Obama's Gun Control Proposals

Before President Obama made his gun violence proposal today, VP Biden commented that he's "never seen the nation's conscience so shaken by what happened at Sandy Hook." And that's what we need to address. There is no way we can stop cRaZy people from being that way, so no one proposal is going to work.

Here are Obama's four legislative proposals:

1. Reduce high-capacity mags. No more than ten rounds. This will not stop the insaniac, but he'll at least have to stop to load instead of filling a Newton first-grader's body with 17 bullets. - I agree with this proposal completely. I would argue that the most ardent gun nut should agree with this. So should the NRA.

2. Close the gun show sale loophole to require criminal background checks for all sales. - Once again, this will slow down a murderer, giving him time to reflect and possibly cool down. I agree with this one completely.

3. Background check improvements. - As far as I am concerned, the states are going to have to take the lead here.

4. Assault rifle ban. - Although I can see no reason for anyone to own an assault rifle, I don't think the case has been made that this contributes to the gun violence. I do think the case has been made with respect to 50-caliber sniper rifles.

Where would you be willing to compromise?

Wheeler Makes it Three

Lance Wheeler, a constable and former courthouse security officer, yesterday announced his intentions to run for Gay Elwell's District Judge seat. This seat is also being sought by Easton Attorney Antonia Grifo and City Code Enforcement Officer Sharbell Koorie. Fighting off a cold, I missed Lance's announcement, but The Express Times has a good story.

How About Some Harmony?

During a time of partisan divide that extends from federal to local government, there's still barbershop harmony. The Lehigh Valley Harmonizers, a local chorus, is hosting its fourth annual Young Singers' Quartet Contest. The goal is to give students the unique experience of singing in a barbershop quartet and to offer an opportunity to improve their singing skills through the medium of close harmony a cappella singing. To date, ten quartets are entered from Freedom, Northern Lehigh and Phillipsburg High Schools. Deadline for entries is January 24th.

Each quartet will be asked to sing one song arranged in the barbershop style.The competition will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, January 27th, in Lipkin Theatre, Kopacek Hall at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem and is open to the public at no charge.

For more information, call 800-482-1548 or www.lvharmonizers.com

Brace Yourself! Geoff Brace Takes His Third Swing

He's taken two mighty swing and has had two mighty misses. Will his third attempt at Lehigh County's Board of Commissioners succeed? I'm talking about Allentown resident Geoff Brace, who is set to announce his campaign for Lehigh County Commissioner on January 28, 2013 at the West End Youth Center (848 North 20th Street, Allentown).

I've known Geoff since I began blogging, and he has always been interested in County government.

He first applied for appointment to an at-large vacancy in 2010. Commissioners chose Bill Hansell over him. Barely.

Then Geoff decided to run for the job in 2011, when four at-large seats were up for grabs. He finished a distant 7th (17,153 votes), as Republican won every seat.

Will the third time be the charm? He's running for a district seat this time, as opposed to an at-large seat, and one that includes a retiring Democratic incumbent, Dan McCarthy. Also, the pendulum appears to be swinging in the direction of Democrats. So I rate Geoff's chances as very high.

Brace will be joined at his announcement by State Representative Mike Schlossberg, former State Representative Jennifer Mann, Lehigh County Executive Bill Hansell and Lehigh County Commissioner Dan McCarthy.

“I am excited to bring my campaign for Common Sense to the voters of this district,” remarked Brace.

Jenn Mann is now in it for the money. After getting special tax breaks for the wealthy inside an Allentown business district, she's suddenly left a safe seat at the state house to become an ... a-hem ... consultant. Her successor, Schlossberg, is a Pawlowski toadie who distinguished himself on Allentown City Council mostly by being undistinguished. Once a nice guy, he's become arrogant

So I'm no fan of two of Geoff's supporters.

But I am of current Lehigh County Commissioner Dan McCarthy, who recently announced that he will not seek re-election to his District seat in Center City and the West End of Allentown.

Brace was born on the West End where his late-grandfather was a dentist. Brace and his wife, Sara Jane, are homeowners in Center City Allentown.

Brace now works for State Representative Schlossberg. Lucky him!

That's a step down from his previous experience managing successful non-profit organizations, including the Pennsylvania Downtown Center and Kutztown Community Partnership.

“As commissioner, I will bring my experience serving the people, helping small businesses grow and add jobs and supporting revitalization across Pennsylvania,” says Brace.

Despite the endorsement of Money Mann and Rubber Stamp Mike, Brace will likely be the best of all candidates seeking district seats in Lehigh County this year. In fact, he's one of those rare gems often overlooked by voters. though he's in this for all the right reasons.

Plus he's got a cool name. Geoffrey. Sounds like he belongs in the House of Lords with Wellington.

Two Things About King Edwin

1) In the banana republic known as Allentown, Edwin Pawlowski is, as blogger Michael Molovinsky has called him, Mayor for Life. All he needs is a frickin' uniform.

2) If he ever tries to run for election anywhere outside of Allentown, he'll be eaten alive.

Who's Got the Dirt on Upper Mt Bethel Tp?

Judith Henckel chairs Upper Mt Bethel Supervisors

To their credit, Upper Mount Bethel Supervisors have corrected a violation of the Sunshine Act. A week earlier, at a poorly attended meeting, they reorganized without allowing public comment. Not even from Ron Angle. That led to an Express Times Turkey and a stinging rebuke from Editor Jim Deegan. Even their own lawyer told them they screwed up.

So at last night's meeting, Supervisors did it over. But this time, instead of the usual two or three bobbleheads in the peanut gallery, there were 32 angry dudes, with about 64 teeth, and they all had something to say. The parking lot was full of their pick-up trucks, each of which had a gun racks. Dressed in NASCAR and Marine caps, they had read the news accounts, were unhappy, and wanted the Board to know they were unhappy.

Ron Angle, who does happen to live in Upper Mount Bethel Township, managed to speak about 400 times before the night was over. It didn't really change any votes, but it certainly was entertaining. Enough hot air came from that little meeting room to heat the entire Lehigh Valley for the rest of this Winter.

Doors to a men's room and ladies' room are right inside the meeting hall. This was a long meeting, but not one woman felt the need to use the facilities. For the guys, it wa a different story They were in there nonstop. And the acoustics were such that it was easier to hear the rush from someone's urinary tract than to hear Chairman Judy Henkel's soft voice. Since the sound of rushing water is supposed to be relaxing, this is probably a good thing.

Let me give you my take on some of the Supervisors.

rest rooms conveniently located

Judith Henckel - She is Angle's political foe and is probably among the worst Chairs I've ever seen. She is completely unable to run a meeting. But I like her and consider her a good Supervisor who cares about her community and puts in the time. She took quite a bit of heat for her stand on environmental issues, but she believes in something.

Larry Hallet. - This Supervisor, in his 80's, is concerned about Dirtgate - a Township practice of giving free topsoil to just about anyone who asks for it. In fact, it's even codified in an ordinance adopted 12 years ago. But under that law, only one or two loads is permitted. Not forty. According to some Township residents and Hallet, as many as forty loads of topsoil went to one residence in the Saddle Ridge development. Former Roadmaster Gerry Geake agreed that may have happened. But he disputed Hallet's claim that as many as 1,200 loads of topsoil have gone to preferred residents. "Only a fool would believe that," says Geake.

We need a few more fools like Hallet, if only to make sure everyone is doing the right thing.

The value of each truckload is unknown, although some place it as high as $500.

Gerry Geake - He's under a cloud of suspicion as a result of charges of sexual harassment made by a female employee. He's also a recent convicted drunk driver, and is the Supervisor most closely identified with the growing "Dirtgate" scandal. Need I say more?

Yes. I consider him their best Supervisor. He should probably be Chair. He is extremely knowledgeable about Township issues and basically keeps Henckel from going too far adrift.

He did serve as Roadmaster but voluntarily left that position when the sexual harassment charges were made. Last night he explained that was his decision, even though Angle reminded him he is innocent until proven guilty. He stated that he would stay away until the investigation is complete and will not ask for back pay either. He remained calm as accusations flew back and forth last night and never lost his cool.

Bob Gerwig and Joe Batillo were the quiet ones, so I'm unable to read them.

At last night's meeting, a Connecticut transplant told me it was the worst public meeting he's ever seen, so we've got that going for us.

Today, the Planning Comm'n; Tomorrow, the World!

Look out everyone! He's b-a-a-a-a-c-k. In a close, 3-2 vote, Ron Angle was named last night to a vacancy on Upper Mount Bethel Township's Planning Commission. He's certain to use this as a stepping stone in his evil plans for world domination.

Judy Henckel, who apparently prefers salamanders to Angle, tried to have the vote tabled because there was no letter of interest. Angle responded by tearing a sheet right out of my notebook, then walked up to Supervisors with a three word letter. "I live here."

It was spelled right, too.

Earlier that night, Angle told Supervisors that he has 32 years of government experience, wrote the Township's zoning ordinance himself, invented the "one good acre" concept and is very close to finding a cure for the flu.

After the vote was over, there was so much commotion that people had to ask who voted against Angle.

It was Judy Henckel and Bob Gerwig.

"You two just wait and see what happens when you have something before the Planning Comm'n," joked Angle.

At least I think he was joking.

Henckel then asked Angle if he'd like to serve on the Parks and Rec Board, too. "That's too much," he answered. "I'm semi-retired.,"

According to Fake Rev Mario Martinez, Angle is related to Satan in some way. I think they're first cousins, but Satan denied it.

Cartwright on Gun Violence Task Force

Congressman Matt Cartwright whose District includes part of the Lehigh Valley, has been appointed to a Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. This task force, established by Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, is tasked with developing a comprehensive set of policy proposals to reduce and prevent gun violence.

“We need to take a comprehensive approach to cut down on gun violence,” said Cartwright. “I look forward to serving on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and working to enact meaningful legislation that will help make our streets and communities safer.”

According to Easton Mayor Sal Panto, “This is a great opportunity not only for the Congressman to be in the forefront of this issue of national importance but also for Mayors and all Americans because Congressman Cartwright is a listener and cares about the people.”

A comprehensive set of policy proposals will be released by the task force in early February.

NorCo Council Reorganization Redux

Barb Thierry is another Council member who wants to revote

When Northampton County Council met on Thursday night, the thought uppermost in most people's minds was whether they would redo the leadership vote they botched on Monday. That's when three of its nine members picked a President and VP, with one of them voting by phone on the high seas. Council failed to reconsider its vote Thursday night, but inside sources tell me it will happen at the next meeting.

Bob Werner ended Thursday's meeting by distributing a "top ten list" to some (not all) members of the press, detailing the great things that have happened over the last year. He missed Monday's reorganization and was one of the five who voted against a do-overon Thursday night.

Well, instead of reading about how great he was, Werner opened up The Express Times on Saturday to see that his new Council has been awarded a Turkey:

"[A] nine-member board can’t muster more than four bodies for one of the most important meetings of the year. Did everyone have the flu? Let’s see the doctors’ excuses — or better yet, hold a re-reorganization meeting and elect leaders who have true majority support of their peers."

Lamont McClure did try, but it was a poorly phrased motion. He wanted them to go into recess and have the Clerk prepare a resolution and then come out and re-do the vote. Nobody was entirely sure what the hell he meant.

Ken Kraft voted against it, which blew my mind. Ken is the Council member who was denied the right to vote by phone when that same right was given to another Council member who asked first. Kraft, still shaking off a bad flu bug, was confused. He reportedly will be asking for a reconsideration.

This is pretty basic stuff. Forget the motion v. resolution crap. When a Council member is denied the right to vote on any issue, it is the people who are shortchanged.

Where was everyone on Monday?

Ken Kraft and Bib Werner were both quite ill. Barb Thierry though it was the next day and raced down to the courthouse, arriving there just as the meeting ended. Peg Ferraro was on a privateer, although she made arrangements to phone in. Bruce Gilbert was teaching.

It happens. It just all happened at once.

LVR Attends a Bridal Show

Kara Miller (L) and Christine Seiple (R) want that honeymoon at St. Lucia

You usually see my Bethlehem Press by-line next to all kinds of local government and political gatherings. Hot stuff. But I must have screwed up. Instead of a Mayor or County Exec, my editor recently sent me to cover the Lehigh Valley Bridal Expo at Lehigh's Rauch Fieldhouse. On Sunday, January 13. During NFL playoffs. "You'll love it," he assured me. If I win the 5-day honeymoon to St. Lucia, I'll agree. But for a guy, this is about as popular as a colonoscopy.

Now don't get me wrong. There were 3,500 people at this event. Most of them paid $6 just for the privilege of being there, too. But only a small percentage of those 3500 were guys.

"This is a girls' day," one future bride told me. Seriously, what the hell do we know about floral arrangements or wedding cakes?

Lovebirds Mark Prestifilippo and Andi  McCleland will tie the knot in May

There were some cool limos in there, along with the Brew Works. That was about it for us. I did see hoagies, but they were ruined with cucumbers. No ham No cheese. Just cukes.

John Orlicki, J and J Luxury, was watching the game from the limo

The place was packed with 125 florists, jewelers, DJs, wedding planners, travel agencies, reception halls and make-up artists. I asked one if she could do anything for me, and she aid she'd need a blowtorch.

Colleen and Terry Laky take an order for Macungie's Piece a Cake

I was almost denied admission. I told show organizers I was with the press, but had no credentials. I did have an index card, with the word "Press" filled out as a joke. Believe it or not, that got me in!

I'm going to try that at the NFL Superbowl.

For the bride and groom on a budget

LTCFs Rise 70% in NorCo Last Year

In his report to Northampton County Council on Thursday night, Executive John Stoffa described a disturbing increase in the number of LTCFs being issued. According to Stoffa, 4,627 gun permits were issued in 2012. That's a 70% increase over 2011. A new daily record - 87 permits in one day - has also been set.

When someone applies for a LTCF, the Sheriff only has 45 days to conduct a background check. Sheriff Randy Miller is using 2 full-time civilians, 2 full-time deputies and one part-timer to keep up with the applications.

Miller told Council that the County can only charge $20 for a LTCF, which has a five-year life. Stoffa pointed out that a dog license is more expensive.

Doing the math, it cost Northampton County approximately $250,000, in salaries and benefits, to pay for the cost of processing this mandated services, from which the County brought in $92,540.

A Letter to Easton Police

Good morning. I know that you have quite a bit on your plate, given the number of homicides in Easton last year. I am writing because I do not want to be one of those statistics.

By now, I am sure that most of you are familiar with Tricia Mezzacappa, [redacted], West Easton, Pa.  For over a year, she has been filing false reports with your department accusing me of numerous and sundry criminal offenses, from sexual assault to pig poisoning. Of course, these accusations are all nonsense, and I have sued her for defamation.

I have tried to address this civilly, without involving you or your limited resources.

On December 27, Judge Edward Smith issued a ruling determining that my defamation suit has validity, and Mezzacappa has grown increasingly erratic. She has published 20 blogs since that date at her blog, West Eaton Foot Print, attacking me, my attorney, or both of us.

On Tuesday, she appeared at the Northampton County Courthouse, where I am employed as a title searcher, to file papers in connection with the defamation office. I walked into that office in the course of doing a search, and upon seeing her, went immediately to a computer and sat down. I said nothing and did nothing until she left the office, and three Civil Division employees can corroborate this.

Nevertheless, she came to your department (and the Sheriff's Office) that same day to complain, falsely, that I was stalking her by doing my job.

The very next day, she filed a complaint in Court that falsely contends, in violation of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904 (unsworn falisification to authorities) that I "confronted" her and "purposely threw [myself] into the physical path of Mezzacappa." (see copy of verified complaint). These material statements are completely untrue and she has to know they are completely untrue, as three Civil Division employees can attest.

Sometime yesterday, she posted this statement on LehighValleyLive (The Express Times):

Tricia Mezzacappa
Hi Jimp, I dont usually respond to anons, but here it goes.
Maybe I'M scared, but I dont think I'm paranoid, or a gun nut. See, law enforcement doesnt always work for insignificant nobody's like myself. They dont always serve and protect, either. When armagedon comes a runnin towards my house, I stand armed and ready. I picture armegedon about 5 ft 9 and balding, little eyeglasses on the tip of his nose, and enough fat flaps to insulate a bull. Deep breath, aim, shoot, and....one hollow point goes right through his skull, he's dead before he hit the ground, kersplat....PERFECT

.
I happen to be 5'9", balding, do wear my glasses towards the tip of my rather substantial nose and recently lost a great deal of weight.

I believe this threatening remark, along with her numerous false reports, needs to be addressed by law enforcement. She has engaged in a course of conduct and has repeatedly communicated false reports and an implied threat that demonstrate an intent to both place me in reasonable fear of bodily injury and cause substantial emotional distress to me.

If you need to speak to me about this, my cell phone number is [redacted] Thank you.

Werner's 2012 Top Ten List for Norco Council

Buzzer Beater Babs

Council member Bob Werner was sick as a dog on Monday. In fact, he was so sick that he missed Council's reorganization, in which just three of nine members were miraculously able to elect a President and VP. He must have had a sore arm because he sure as hell spent a lot of time patting himself on the back at last night's meeting.

Last October, Werner "chided" the press for its failure to spread the Good News about Northampton County. Last night, he had a Top Ten list of Great Things that Council accomplished last year. He made sure he provided a copy of that Letterman List to the Morning Call reporter who thinks Lehigh County's conservative Commissioners are "wackos."

He missed me for some reason.

As a bottom-feeding blogger, I failed to take detailed notes. But I can't bear another chiding from Werner. So let me fill you in on Council's 2012 accomplishments.

10) A guaranteed energy savings project (GESA) (This was actually approved by the previous Council, but let's not split hairs)

9)  A 2012 bond.(Yep, he's proud of borrowing money).

8)  A vending machine in the basement that no longer steals your quarters. (Just dollar bills).

7)  Getting Captain Kangaroo as the new County Mascot.

6)  A basketball team, the NorCo Nuckleheads, captained by Bruce Gilbert. This team edged out the Lehigh County Wackos in double over-time last March with a buzzer beater coming from Babs Thierry after Lamont McClure predictably fouled out. The team would later fall to a 4th grade CYO team in which Ken Kraft was beaten to a pulp by Sister Mary Raymond, OSF. (Don't EVER pick a fight with a nun, even if you're a Marine).

5) A NY Times Best Seller, "Inoffensive Opening Prayers," penned by John Cusick. It contains interfaith gems like this: "O God and Holy Spirit: Ease our suffering during this Council meeting; verily, verily we say unto You, Mother Earth. And Yea, in the Valley of Darkness, we shall fear no Angle or the White Whale. Om Mani Peme Hung. If I were a rich man. L'Chaim." Cusick is going to cut an audio tape this year for insomniacs.

4) A translator for incomprehensible Tom Dietrich, who has mastered the art of using a maximum number of words to say absolutely nothing. (Unfortunately, the linguist committed suicide after just one meeting).

3)  A symposium on the evils of alcohol, sponsored by Scott Parsons, at Detzi's Tavern. Council plans to meet there this year. "It's lot more fun than Tic Toc," says Peg Ferraro.

2) Birdhouse building classes, under the supervision of Executive John Stoffa. "It's very Zen," claimed Stoffa, before falling into a coma.

1) A Ron Angle portrait, painted by Ron Angle, to be hung in the Council shitter.

Planners Approve 1.75 Million Sq Ft Warehouse at Commerce Boulevard

In a perfunctory, twenty-minute, meeting on January 10, Bethlehem planners unanimously gave their blessings to a 1.75 million sq ft warehousing facility on the north side of Commerce Center Boulevard, located near the Route 78 exit. It's located at Majestic Business Center, a sprawling 442-acre tract that was once owned by Bethlehem Steel. If built, it will certainly be among the largest warehousing facilities in the Lehigh Valley.

Engineer Carly Patterson told planners the warehouse will include 325 parking places for its workforce. In addition there will be 339 trailer space for trucks coming in and out of the facility along a ring road that will surround the lot.

Facility manager Eric Scheler acknowledged that, at this time, no tenant has been identified.

In addition to approving the facility, planners quickly adopted four waivers to various impervious coverage and landscaping requirements.

Scheler agreed to pay up to $50,000 for upgrades to a pumping station, a $93,700 recreation fee and $75,000 for landscaping and trees in other areas. He added that, if a tenant is found, it could result in 175 jobs.

This meeting marks the first that Bethlehem Planners have conducted since October.

Zoners Shoot Down Beer Distributor Outside K-Mart Plaza

Marcus Dixon (center) has a rough night

January 9 was a tough night for small business in Bethlehem Township. Zoners shot down a 1655 sq ft retail beer distributor proposed at 3801 Nazareth Pike, just outside the K-Mart Shopping Center. It would have required a use variance, something that Chairman Stephen Szy proudly claimed has never been granted during his tenure on the board.

"It would set a very dangerous precedent," Szy warned, although Attorney Erich J. Schock, representing proposed beer distributor Marcus Dixon, insisted that they have no binding value at all.

Dixon told zoners he'd distribute domestic and imported beers from a 1,655 sq ft vacant building, located next to Leslie's Swimming Pool Supplies. He'd be renting the facility from Patricia Fodi, who told zoners that its becoming more and more difficult to find small businesses, especially as a shopping center like the K-Mart Plaza springs up all around her. She and her husband at one time operated a carpet business at the site, which also once served as a dry cleaner.

She called Dixon a "Godsend," saying he would fit in nicely with the pool business next door. People could pick up pool supplies and weekend beverages in one trip, she explained.

Though surrounded by a sea of businesses, from a China King to K-Mart, and though no member of the public opposed this use, Chairman Szy was reluctant to bend. "We can't change the zoning law," he declaimed. "The law is the law."

Representing the Township, Attorney Jim Preston agreed. "The use variance standard is pretty severe," he noted.

Like Szy, ZHB member Jerry Batcha called a use variance a "slippery slope."

But zoner Robert Furst, who abstained from the otherwise unanimous rejection, noted that they were effectively rejecting a needed small business owner who would be paying taxes. "I think you're missing the big picture here," he told other zoners.

Although Dixon's request for relief was rejected, Township Commissioners can change the zoning ordinance to permit a beverage distributor, something zoners all suggested to this trucker.

Commissioner Paul Weiss, who sat in in the hearing, agreed that Dixon and Fodi "made a lot of valid points." Though warning everyone that he is only one of five Commissioners, he stated he "would entertain any request."

Schock could be seen speaking to Weiss after the meeting. Owner Patricia Fodi smiled and said that though the Zoning Hearing Board is very strict, "I respect them."

Yes, Virginia, There Are Dedicated Public Servants

Paul Weiss

He was at the courthouse at 7:15 on Wednesday morning, preparing for a white collar crime trial that most people don't even notice. Never mind that it involves the possible embezzlement of $830,000 from Bethlehem Township. After a full day of trial, he spent the evening working on his closing, arriving home at 10:30 PM. That's a 15 hour day, and it's not over. If there is a murder or major crime committed, his phone will be among the first to ring.

That's one day in the life of Northampton County DA John Morganelli.

At yesterday's trial, Bethlehem Township Commissioner Tom Nolan sat in the peanut gallery, trying to learn as much as he could. That's how he spent a day off.

Later in the evening, at a zoning hearing, Commissioner President Paul Weiss sat quietly in the back of the room, as he does during almost all planning and zoning meetings.

Commissioner Mike Hudak was probably hiding in the bushes at Housenick Park, making sure nobody littered.

I poke fun at these guys all the time. But they all care, and they all show up.

Fortunately for me, there's enough of the other type or I'd have to retire as a bottom-feeding blogger.

Centralized Human Services? Just the Facts

In his first year as Northampton County Executive, John Stoffa wanted to consolidate its human services under one roof. He was rebuffed by a Council more interested in scoring political points than good government. That seems to have changed. Now that Stoffa can at least count on a fair shake from Council, he is trying again with a proposed human services facility at 2081 Emrick Boulevard.

Although I've written about it before, Stoffa has prepared a detailed Q and A that outlines the proposal in a fairly objective manner.I think it is going to boil down to whether the County has ready, willing and able buyers for the Bechtel and Governor olf Buildings.

Consolidated Human Services Facility Q & A by BernieOHare

Morganelli - One Hard-Working DA

At this moment, NorCo DA John Morganelli is enmeshed in the prosecution of two Scranton-area men accused of fleecing Bethlehem Township out of more than $830,000 in a streetlight scam. After this alleged embezzlement, they spent $75,075 on Democratic campaigns throughout the state, including those of Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan and Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski.

This white-collar prosecution, unlike high profile murders, is one that requires painstaking attention to detail. Instead of breaking down in tears, jurors are more likely to brake down in snores. Morganelli could easily avoid this trial and let an assistant handle it, but there he is, doing it himself.

Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows that I can and do criticize Morganelli. But like him or not, he puts in the time. In his years as DA, he has personally tried over 20 murder cases. And he's known for being very frugal with his own budget.

So at a time when five of Northampton County's nine Council members can't be bothered to attend their own reorganization, it's nice to know that one County official still shows up.

Cusick's Election as Council Prez Illegal

The Express Times has a thorough report concerning yesterday's Northampton County Council reorganization, in which three members decided on this year's leadership. I am one of Lamont McClure's harshest critics, but yesterday's travesty is illegal.

First, you can't allow one Council member (Republican Peg Ferraro) to participate by phone, while denying that same right to another Council member (Democrat Ken Kraft). That, in effect, has disenfranchised the entire Bethlehem District of Northampton County, which is represented by Kraft. It's a basic violation of due process and is anti-Democratic.

Second, to be elected, John Cusick needed five votes, not three. The Home Rule Charter clearly states that it must act by resolution for any matter that requires it to express its consensus, which is majority will. A resolution requires five of the nine votes. Something as basic as its own leadership requires a majority of the entire Council, not just those who happen to be there that day. Arguing that it was just a motion exalts procedure over substance.

Third, Cusick should not be allowed to vote for himself because he has a direct financial interest in the matter, unless he is willing to sign a waiver, agreeing that he will accept no compensation above and beyond what is paid to a Council member. His vote for himself is contrary to the state Ethics Act.

Finally, how ironic that the three members of Council involved in this illegal exercise - Cusick, Ferraro and Tom Dietrich - just happen to be the same three Council members who organized the cabal against the evil Ron Angle.

They need to do this again on Thursday night.

Updated 11:20 AM: - Werner Sidelined by Illness, Too. -  Bob Werner, like Kraft, was battling an illness yesterday, and that is why he was absent.

DUI Center Coming To Bethlehem Tp's Old Meeting Hall

Bethlehem Township's old meeting meeting room at the Coolidge House, located at 5th and Orth Streets, will soon serve a new purpose. Its walls, which once echoed with oratory, will soon be adorned with anchors against which suspected drunk drivers can be chained until they are processed.

At their January 7 meeting, Commissioners unanimously approved a 5-year lease with Northampton County's District Attorney for a new DUI Center. This will replace one currently in once at Bethlehem's Police Department.

A privacy wall and other minor will be erected, at Township expense, to separate DUI processing from other functions at the building, from Boy Scouts for the youth to the Autumn Club for seniors.

The County will pay $1,000 per month during its initial 5-year lease. That rental will increase $50 per month every year, topping off at $1,450 per month, according to Solicitor Jim Broughal.

Commissioner Michael Hudak complained about the rent, stating it "doesn't seem like a lot." But President Paul Weiss countered that it's more than the Township is getting now. "Currently, we're not getting anything for that building," he reasoned.

Commissioner Tom Nolan added that it's an opportunity for the Township to work with the County. "The County has a need, and fortunately, we have an ability to fulfill that need," Nolan observed.

Northampton County is also eyeing Bethlehem Township as a site for a centralized Human Services Building at 2801 Emrick Boulevard.

Antonia Grifo Makes It Official - She's Running for District Judge

Antonia Grifo with mother Leonarda and husband Ron Shipman

From her Spring Garden Street law offices, Antonia Grifo made it official yesterday. She's running for the District Judge seat in which Gay Elwell served so well before her untimely death a few weeks ago.

In a post yesterday, I provided you with some biographical details about Antonia. But I was still surprised during her announcement.

First, though she comes from a staunch Republican background, Antonia is actually a Democrat. But as she was quick to remind everyone yesterday, judicial races are nonpartisan. She'll be cross-filing.

Second, Easton Attorney Theresa Hogan, who was rumored to be running for the job herself, dropped by to endorse Antonia. "I heard that, too," smiled Theresa about the political gossip, which I shared. She and Antonia actually grew up together. "She's ready for this," said Hogan. "Our community should be excited about this opportunity."

Third, Grifo really wants this. Noting that the minor judiciary is often "the first and only contact a wide range of citizens have with our system of justice," she has no desire to use this as a stepping stone and will, in fact, give up her practice if elected. For her, it's a full-time job.

Fourth, she's already signed up for minor judiciary course. As a practicing attorney, she has no obligation to do this, but said she wants to "hit the ground running."

In addition to Theresa, Grifo's husband, Ron Shipman, was there. He is one of Northampton County's finest lawyers. Her son, Chris Shipman, came, too. He's another good lawyer whose name you've likely seen in the newspapers. I neglected to get his picture.

For me, the biggest treat was seeing and speaking to Antonia's mother, Leonarda Grifo. You might know her as the widow of one of Northampton County's finest judges, Richard D. Grifo. You might know her as the mother to Antonia, an excellent attorney. I know her as a tireless advocate for many local causes that make Easton a better place. One of these is the Easton Area Community Center, which provides a home for 2300+ at-risk children between 3 and 7 PM every day.

Antonia calls her an 87 year-old dynamo.

Like her mother, Antonia has been involved on numerous local causes, from the Spring Garden Children's Center to the Boys and Girls Club of Easton.

Her Mom wears white glasses, too, a point Antonia made with me yesterday.

So for you readers who were having fun with Antonia's white glasses with all those damn Mrs. Potato Head jokes, thanks a frickin' lot. Don't you think I get into enough trouble on my own, without your help?

Next time I get a parking ticket, I might as well just report to jail.

Seriously, I consider Antonia a class act who will make a great judge if you choose to elect her.

Water Lease Foes Have Questions For Allentown City Council

Dan Poresky helped lead a successful referendum drive designed to stop Allentown for a long term lease of its water and sewer assets. Mayor Edwin Pawlowski claims he has no choice because of the City's pension crisis. Tonight, City Council will decide whether the people will decide. Poresky has sent this statement:

Greetings Allentown City Council Members,

At the special meeting, January 8, Council will be debating whether the public should have the right to vote on plans by the City to sell or lease any asset valued at ten million or more dollars. It is the goal of dozens of people who will be attending the meeting to convince Council to vote in favor of putting the referendum the would create this rule on the May ballot.

We are, of course, most concerned about the current plan to lease Allentown's water and sewer operation for fifty years.

We believe that having decisions of this magnitude go to referendum provides time for everyone, the administration, Council, the public, and other parties who may be affected to become informed, to evaluate options and to get involved in the process.

Council rules limit each member of the public to three minutes for comment to inform and influence Council’s decision. It is essential, therefore, to make our case, that the public have some critical information prior to their comments.

We ask that you address the following questions before hearing public comment.

When is the final RFP going to be available for the public to see?

Will there be opportunity for input at Council meetings on the final RFP?

How long from the time the RFP is made public will the bidders have to respond?

How long will Council have to evaluate the bids?

Who will be negotiating the final agreement?

How long will neighboring communities have to evaluate the impact on them of the agreement before Council votes on it?

Council has said it wants to wait until it sees the ‘numbers’ from the bidders prior to doing a thorough examination of alternatives such as forming an Allentown or regional water authority as suggested by the PA Economy League.

How much time and what resources is Council prepared to use for evaluating alternatives?

What opportunity will there be for public input?

We look forward to participating in your deliberations on Tuesday.

Thank you,

Committee for Allentown's Water

Updated 8 AM: Blogger Michael Molovinsky notes that this evening's special meeting starts at 6 PM.

NorCo Council Kicks Off New Year By Blowing Its Reorganization

I was at a basketball game so I missed the party, but have been told that NorCo Council managed to screw up its reorganization today. I understand that only four members were physically present, with Peg Ferraro calling in from overseas. I am further informed that John Cusick was re-elected President with three votes. If this is true, and I don't know the facts for sure, then John Cusick's re-election is illegal. This is because any action by Council requires a majority of its membership, not just a majority of whomever is present.

Where was everyone? Bob Werner and Bruce Gilbert were probably working their day jobs. Ken Kraft has the flu. Barb Thierry got her days mixed up, and was in a rush to get there, but arrived too late.

I understand Scott Parsons, deeming the whole thing too damn political, abstained.

Lamont McClure wanted to get Kraft elected, while Cusick obviously wanted himself.

I can't be too sure what exactly happened since I was not there. But from what I've been told, it was a mess.

Updated 8:50 PM:  The Express Times has an account about this ridiculous reorganization, in which just three of nine members elected its President and VP. Their Solicitor, Phil Lauer, advised them it's perfectly legal for three people to make this decision, in apparent reliance on Section 6-601 of the Home Rule Charter. That does allow a vote by simple majority on a "motion." But that applies to procedure. It's a way to bring something to a decision. This was no simple procedural matter. It was substantive - an election of Council's top two officers. I have great respect for Phil, both as an attorney and as a person, but disagree with him on this one.

Updated 11:10 PM: The Council meeting, if you can call it that, is online. It is just as ridiculous as I had imagined. My thanks to "Matt M."

Lisa Scheller New Chair of Lehigh Comm'rs?

Lehigh County insiders tell me that Lisa Schelller has the five votes needed to take over the reins of its Board of Commissioners. Brad Osborne, the current Chair, drew the wrath of its largely conservative membership when he went along with Executive Bill Hansell's veto of a budget that would have slashed $5 million from emplyee compensation. At the time, members like Vic Mazziotti and Scheller were upset that Osborne participated in a news conference announcing the veto, without letting thm know.

A Morning Call reporter who regularly covers Lehigh Coiunty's Board of Commissioners has called them a bunch of "whackos."

Should Girls Play Football?

In his last play of this this football season, my grandson Dat got blindsided by a Bethlehem Township Bulldog while rolling out to throw a pass. It was a good, clean hit, but he was laid out. When a trainer asked how many fingers he was holding out, Dat answered, "Tuesday." It's a violent game. Is it too rough for girls?

That's what Bucks County's Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) thinks. They've banned an 11 year-old girl from play next year. Her Dad calls the rule "archaic and discriminatory."

I wonder what her Mom thinks.

I've seen girls play youth football. I've even seen a few on the high school level, mostly place-kickers, although one young lady played quarterback at a Florida high school last year.

I see no reason why a girl should be excluded, so long as she can make the team like everyone else.

Reynolds Expected to Announce Mayoral Bid Tuesday

Willie at Firecracker 4-miler. I think I beat him

Bethlehem City Council member J. William Reynolds, a lifelong resident of the city, will announce his intention to run for Mayor on Tuesday afternoon. Instead of doing it at some social hall or eatery, he's announcing outside of his home, in front of a small group of his neighbors, family members and campaign volunteers.

According to Reynolds, this is to emphasize the importance of Bethlehem’s neighborhoods while also recognizing his strong grassroots support.

It's also cheaper.

Reynolds, who grew up just a block from Liberty High School, has walked to every school he's ever attended. He's like Bethlehem to remain a City with strong neighborhoods in which kids can walk to school.

A Moravian College grad, he's in his second term as a Council member and teaches in the Allentown School District.

Reynolds was a stand out basketball player at Liberty and Moravian. He's also an avid runner who regularly competes and excels in road races throughout the Lehigh Valley.

But this is no road race. Willie is up against affable Bob Donchez, a retired Allentown teacher who has served on City Council since 1996. Currently a legislative aide to State Rep. Dan McNeil, Donchez was top vote getter in the 2011 City Council races. He pulled in 5,176 votes. Reynolds came in second, with 4,466.

This announcement is good news for Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan, who should soon be announcing his own race for Northampton County Executive. A contested Bethlehem Mayoral race will increase Bethlehem's turnout, and that in turn should increase the number of votes being cast for Callahan.

But Reynolds is in this race to win, not to drive up turnout for someone else.

I will make every effort to attend Reynold's announcement on Tuesday, although one of Bethlehem's independent haulers might mistake me for a piece of garbage and take me away.

It happens.

Blogger's Note: I was going to embargo this until Tuesday, but The Express Times went with this story and Reynolds' web page is live.

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?

Grifo Poised to Seek Elwell's Seat

Easton attorney Antonia M. Grifo will meet the press this afternoon at her law offices. I presume she'll announce her intentions concerning the Magisterial District Judge position that became vacant when Judge Gay Elwell died unexpectedly.

A 1982 grad of Fordham law school, Grifo practices law with her husband, Ron Shipman. She is a former law clerk to the late Judge Isaac Garb, and spent two years as an Assistant District Attorney. She also teaches Italian, part time, at East Stoudsburg University.

Grifo's father, the late Richard D. Grifo, was a fixture on Northampton County's bench for twenty-five years.

He was an avid fly fisherman.

She plays the harpsichord.

Two other candidates - Code Enforcement Officer Sharbel Koorie and Constable Lance Wheeler - have already announced.

Reibman Says Good-Bye to DRJTBC

From what I'm told, Glenn Reibman spent his last day at the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Comm'n (DRJTBC) last week. He had been their Director of Power Naps. This former NorCo Exec, who imposed a 70%+ tax hike over two years and promoted a swaption that ended up costing us $25 million, wants to pad his County pension.

Merry Frickin' Christmas

Dick Haber, who is a miserable bastard, sent this to one of my friends. I got coal.