Former NorCo Elections Comm'n Chair Jailed Over DUI

Nicole Schlener, who has served as an Elections Commissioner and was at one time its chair, is in Northampton County jail, serving a 90-day minimum sentence as a result of her conviction for DUI as a second offense.

Now going by the name Motchos, her entrance into jail was delayed because she suffered a brain aneurysm and other medical complications. While attempting to recover from that ordeal, she was assaulted by a boyfriend who slammed her head against the wall several times.

She is the former wife of Bethlehem firefighter James Schlener, who lost his job as a result of his own DUI during a time when he had called off sick.

Schlener's term as an Elections Commissioner expired in December.

Diane Teti, An Allentown Conscience

I've been a bit under the weather, as often happens to me this time of year, so I missed last night's meeting of Allentown City Council. Believe it or not, I wanted to be there. It's not because I have any respect for that rubber stamp, but the people who attend regularly are beginning to assert themselves.

Lou Hershman has always been a watchdog. Even at basketball games, where his grandson plays alongside mine, he keeps a close eye on the score. But now there are newer, and louder voices.

Diane Teti is one of these voices. She has become a rallying point for our homeless problem. Michael Molovinsky, who must have been at last night's meeting, has an excellent story

Diane introduced Council to Donald, one of many people for whom no one speaks.

From Diane Teti: "This is Donald in 2007 under the 8th Street bridge. One of the 20 people that we helped transition to housing. The City shut his camp and didn't give him any place to go. He was sleeping on the floor of Safe Haven when we met him. Now he rents his own room and is happy as a clam. He has a girlfriend and they are getting an apartment together in July."

Donald found his voice last night.

Will Sletvold Be Confirmed?

In a well-written editorial, The Express Times has come down against confirming Bob Sletvold as Northampton County's Public Defender. That's because his wife, recently elected Judge, will be unable to hear any cases in which any public defender represents the Defendant. That means she will be entertaining very few criminal and juvenile matters, which in turn will require other judges to pick up the slack. It also means that, even as a Motions Judge, she will be unable to hear certain matters and everyone will have to wait for another judge. If they have to wait days or weeks, I foresee public safety problems.

In addition to this editorial, there are two news accounts about this issue from The Morning Call and Express Times. Here's how things look.

Council President Peg Ferraro, VP Glenn Geissinger and Mat Benol, all of them Republicans, support the nomination. Their argument appears to be that that the President Judge and District Attorney are both "OK" with it. But Judge Baratta certainly does not sound as though he's happy at all or "OK" with this situation. It is Judge Baratta who said that Judge Sletvold will be unable to hear any case involving anyone in the Public Defender's Office. Before he noted the appearance of impropriety, Sletvold had argued that that the disqualification would apply only to him.

Judge Baratta stated that Judge Sletvold is "not going to get to experience criminal work like all of our judges do ... . She won't have a full criminal caseload."

"It puts me in an awkward situation," he is quoted as saying. "I don't want to criticize anybody."

This is no ringing endorsement. These are the words of a judge who has serious concerns about this appointment, but who does not want to flex his judicial muscles.

Now it could be that a majority of judges are fine with this appointment, but they speak on these issues through the President Judge. He is far from "OK" with it. Claiming that the Courts "don't have an issue with it," as Executive John Brown has said, is inaccurate.

Ken Kraft, Bob Werner and Scott Parsons, all of them Democrats, are opposed. Parsons said this appointment fails the smell test. "[T]o me, this kind of stinks."

This leaves two Republicans, Hayden Phillips and Seth Vaughn, as well as Democrat Lamont McClure.

McClure said he's "on the fence." I could see him voting to confirm. As a lawyer who undoubtedly will be in front of Judge Sletvold, he's in a tight spot. Although he's given no blessing, Judge Baratta is reluctant to say what he really thinks. He may feel that would be an improper exercise of judicial authority.

Phillips has stated he has "reservations," and will undoubtedly be under immense pressure to confirm.

Nothing at all has been heard from Seth Vaughn.

To me, this is a disaster waiting to happen. I understand that, to some, this will be viewed as an early test of party unity for Brown. But to me, this is a disaster waiting to happen. Eventually, something will be delayed because a judge is unavailable, and someone will get hurt.

Does anyone honestly think Jennifer Sletvold would be elected Judge if people knew her husband would be named Public Defender?

Brown should pull this nomination. But if he is too stubborn to do so, his own party should tell him No. This is bad government.

Sisters Propose Organic Farm at Monocacy Manor

St. Francis Academy, also known as Monocacy Manor, was once home to a Catholic High School for girls.. Situated atop a forbidding hill along Bridle Path Road, it was a fortress guarded by the School Sisters of St. Francis. They presenting many challenges to nearby Bethlehem Catholic High School boys. It's now a retreat center, but the Sisters have more ambitious plans. At the January 14 meeting of Hanover Township Supervisors, they disclosed their intention to establish what they are calling Monocacy Farm. Following the Franciscan tradition, they want to use the land for organic and natural agriculture. They hope that, in the process, they will encourage community involvement, provide educational opportunities and serve the needs of the poor.

The Sisters plan to convert 13 acres of fields and vineyards into community gardens, a production farm and an organic agriculture demonstration farm. The demonstration farm will be used to teach vegetable horticulture to area residents, children and adults in low-income communities. The Sisters also plan to add a "pizza garden", shaped in the form of a sliced pizza, to teach children how to grow many of the basic ingredients for pizzas that children will start making at the end of the growing season. Seventy-five community garden plots will also be made available to area residents.

Local residents and low-income families will be able to purchase "shares" in a community supported agriculture program, after which they will be able to pick up weekly harvests.

In addition, there will also be a "pick your own" program in which excess produce and flowers will be sold to the public.

Finally, the Sisters would like to establish beehives near their natural agriculture farm, to be maintained by a licensed beekeeper. The bees will pollinate the farm's flowers and produce, and will find a safe haven at a farm that uses no toxic sprays or chemicals.

The School Sisters of St. Francis, a catholic religious order that originated in Austria in 1843, have been at Monocacy Manor since 1947.

Though Sister Bonnie Marie Kleinschuster must jump through several zoning hurdles on January 23, Supervisors told her they will pose no objections. Township Manager Jay Finnigan also assured Supervisors that Traditions of America, their next door neighbor, has no objections.

In other business, Public Works Director Vince Milite reported that the Township recycled 1,035 tons of leaves and 470 tons of yard waste last year. He also mentioned that potholes are breaking out all over the Township as a result of several thaws and freezes.

At some point in the meeting, Township Manager Finnigan's skills as a plow truck operator were called into question, prompting Finnigan to plead for divine intervention. Supervisor Jack Nagle looked out at Sister Bonnie, who was sitting in the audience, and told her, "That's your department."

Then Finnigan asked her to pray for Nagle, too. "He's a Moravian, so don't pray too hard," he joked.

Scavello, the NIZ Twins and Abe Atiyeh?

Yesterday, I told you that State Senator wannabe Mario Scavello has gained the goodwill of Northampton County Republican candidates by contributing to their campaigns in November. I reviewed the campaign finance records, and Scavello donated $4,450 as follows: County Executive John Brown - $2,450; Council President Peg Ferraro - $500; Council VP Glenn Geissinger - $500; Council member Hayden Phillips - $500; and Council member Mat Benol - $500.

In addition, Ferraro picked up $2,000 from the NIZ twins, i.e. J.B. Reilly and Joe Topper. They funneled $50,000 to Browne through the state republican party, but gave to her directly. Last May, after having lunch that day with Reilly, Ferraro was one of four Council members to vote against a resolution condemning the NIZ for giving Allentown an "unfair economic advantage" at the expense of other LV municipalities. "I think Allentown needs help," she stated at the time.

That $2,000 was a Thank You from the NIZ twins.

Ferraro also received a $2,000 contribution from Abe Atiyeh, along with an in-kind billboard ad on the same sign that featured Lamont McClure's mug during the primary.

Peg is prettier.

NorCo Finance Reports No Longer Online

In Lehigh County, campaign finance reports filed by candidates for county-wide office have been available since 2009, and can be accessed on my left sidebar. Dean Browning, the driving force behind this exercise in transparency, called it "one small item but certainly something local governments can easily do to make things more accessible."

Northampton County followed Lehigh's lead in 2011, and began posting campaign finance reports online, too. But instead of restricting it to county offices, the finance reports being published were from everyone seeking office.

That might have been too much.

Elections Registrar Dee Rumsey confirmed yesterday that her office stopped posting the reports online for this November's election. Short on manpower, she said it was just too much, especially as the reports come in at a time when her office is busy getting ready for an election.

Cartwright Gets 1% COLA For 1,809 Blue Collar Tobyhanna Workers

Congressman Matt Cartwright's has been pushing a wage hike for what he calls the nation's blue collar federal workers. He appears to have succeeded, and the hike will be included in what is an actual appropriations bill.

Here's what Cartwright says:

"I am thrilled that this appropriations bill has adopted the language from the Wage Grade Employee Parity Act, which I introduced in November. The legislation and its inclusion provides 1,809 Wage Grade (WG) employees at Tobyhanna Army Depot and nearly a quarter million blue-collar federal workers across the country a 1% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).

"This year, the President was able to provide a 1% COLA for General Schedule (GS), or salaried, federal employees; however, he did not have the statutory authority to provide the same COLA to all federal workers. At the beginning of this year WG employees’ wages stayed the same thus creating a greater disparity between the wages of WG employees and GS employees.

"I'd like to thank Representative Tom Cole of Oklahoma and Senator Mark Pryor of Arkansas with whom I have worked to provide hourly federal workers the same pay adjustment as their salaried co-workers. I'd also like to thank House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers, Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Barbara Mikulski, House Appropriations Ranking Member Nita Lowey, and Senate Appropriations Ranking Member Richard Shelby for including my legislation and recognizing the important contributions of our blue-collar federal workers."

Can Parsons Beat Scavello?

State Rep. Mario Scavello is a Republican running for the 40th Pa. Senate District. That district got moved from the western part of the state, and now includes most of Monroe County, as well as a good chunk of Northampton County's Slate Belt. Democrat Scott Parsons, a member of Northampton County Council, recently told the Express Times that he's running, too. He's going to have to run hard if he expects to win. '

Scavello, who has been in the state house for about 12 years, has been sprinkling money all over Northampton  County. Republican Council candidates and Executive John Brown all received generous contributions. Scavello had a $392,000 warchest at the end of 2012, so he has money to burn.  I was unable to access his most recent finance reports.

On the issues, Scavello seems like a conservative Republican. As Chair of the House Labor and Industry Committee, he did come under criticism from conservative voices for refusing to push prevailing wage and other anti-union legislation.  On the other hand, the Diocese of Scranton claims he opposes abortion under all circumstances, as well as same sex marriages and same sex benefits. He also supports the death penalty.

I wonder if he has to run everything by his parish priest like Vic Mazziotti.

What about Parsons? I like him and would be inclined to support him, which probably means he'll lose. I have not seen a Facebook page or any web presence. It might be a good idea to start one.

I did see a Scott Parsons Yoga page, but that dude is in India right now, chanting Ooohhhhmmm.

Longenbach Considered as Brown Director of Admin

Bethlehem Attorney Karl Longenbach, an active Democrat, was Solicitor to former Northampton County Executive John Stoffa for seven of his eight years in office. But he resigned after Council refused to create a $102,900 supervisory position for another attorney in his own office. His argument at the time was that these full-time assistants add professionalism.

He has a point. Municipal law is becoming increasingly specialized, and a county can only benefit from having attorneys who practice nothing else. District Attorney John Morganelli obviously thinks that's true in the criminal arena. He has gradually replaced part-time veteran assistants, as they retire, with career prosecutors.

But the fatal flaw in Longenbach's argument was his own relationship with the full-time solicitor he wanted to promote. There was nothing professional about that. It was a clear violation of the County's nepotism policy, This, plus numerous complaints about this lawyer, is probably why Council passed on promoting her.

Now we have a new Solicitor, Vic Scomillio. He wants to abolish all full-time assistants in his office. Go figure. My guess is he wants to get rid of this assistant, who with Longenbach was an avid Callahan supporter.

Well, while Vic cleans house in the Solicitor's office, Executive John Brown was seriously considering Karl Longenbach, the guy who created that mess, as his next Director of Administration. In fact, if what I'm told is to be believed, it is actually Longenbach who ultimately passed on the opportunity.

Now I know why Brown chose to be secretive about his picks.

You could say that Brown, like Stoffa before him, is bipartisan and is just interested in what is best for the County. Unless nepotism and a terribly disorganized office is good for the County, I'd think you'd want to stay away from Longenbach.

So why did Brown go after Longenbach?

Two words. Richard McAteer.

Or three words. Lehigh Valley Partnership.

In Northampton County, Andy Daub and McAteer are two of the loudest voices of our unelected aristocracy, the Lehigh Valley Partnership. If they had things their way, we'd have no elections at all. Just municipalities with CEOs.

McAteer made his dough in Bethlehem Steel with all the other bluebloods, before it went broke. Then he got himself involved with a company called Computer Aid. That company took off.

Back in 2007, Computer Aid tried unsuccessfully to get the County work for IT services under Anthony Salvaggio. He's yet another heavy hitter whose name always appears on campaign donor lists.

Whether it's McAteer or Salvaggio, we're talking heave duty campaign money to those who will help them financially. It's an urban growth regime in which politicians and the bluebloods share an uneasy alliance. Although they favor Republicans, they will donate to Democrats like Edwin Pawlowski, who do their bidding.

These guys aren't really Democrats or Republicans. Their God and party is money. How else could NIZ developer J.B. Reilly justify an indoor basketball court while screwing Allentown's inner city kids out of a decent education?

Supposedly retired, McAteer still injects himself in things, as long as he can stay in the background. He's one of the Partnership boys on the RenewLV Board. He's on the Board at Lafayette College, chairs the Easton Redevelopment Authority, and has been doing his damned best to help out fellow millionaires like Wolf Building developer Mark Mulligan in Easton.

As Shadow Mayor during the Phil Mitman era, McAteer pretty much destroyed Easton. Sal Panto had nowhere to go but up. Although Panto has kept McAteer close, he goes his own way, thank God.

McAteer is the Easton Redevelopment Authority board director, who pushed Northampton County recently to violate its own law. He got them to reduce the assessment for the Wolf building for his millionaire pal Mulligan, long after the time for taking an appeal had passed.

McAteer and his right arm, Easton DCED Director Gretchen Longenbach, have already wrangled all kinds of grants and breaks for this guy all over Easton. They were even working to place the Wolf Building in a KOZ. That's a special tax mechanism that would mean virtually no taxes at all, not even property taxes, for ten years. But they wanted more. They wanted the County to drop its selling price. They wanted the assessment reduced, too.

After getting the matter in front of the County's Revenue Appeals Board improperly, the assessment was reduced. It was a 2-2 tie-vote. And guess who broke it? McAteer. He gave his proxy to another member in what seems like yet another abuse of authority by a quasi judicial board.

McAteer likes Gretchen Longenbach, and wants her to work for the County. But she makes too much money. She collects three salaries as Easton's DCED Director, Easton Redevelopment Authority Exec Director and Greater Easton Development Partnership Exec Director.

But Karl Longenbach, her father, is another story. He could add three years to his County pension. He might even save his girlfriend's job.

Never mind that he has absolutely no administrative experience and basically ruined one County office. McAteer says it's ok.

Brown, when he was sworn in last week, said he's here to serve. But apparently, he's here to serve the Lehigh Valley Partnership, not the people who actually elected him.

That's what bothers me about our local officials. Instead of representing the vast majority of us who do not own multinational corporations, these guys fall over each other to kiss the ass of the business interests that have pretty much ruined the Lehigh Valley over the past two generations with rampant overdevelopment and a disdain for the very people who made them rich.

Why Was Sheriff Miller Really Fired?

When NorCo Executive John Brown fired Sheriff Randy Miller last week, even Brown had to concede that Miller had done a "phenomenal job."  But he said he wanted to move in a "different direction." So what's the real reason for the ax? Here's the different theories.

1) Brown wants a Sheriff who will do a lousy job. That's the logical inference from his own statements to Miller, but I doubt that's quite what he meant.

2) Miller had to go because he was an avid Callahan supporter who even contributed to him. This seems to be the prevailing theory. Patronage politics.

3) Brown does intend to move the Sheriff's office in a different direction. He wants to reduce staffing, and will reduce court security as an unnecessary expense. Many people hold this view, too.

4) Miller had to go, but it has nothing to do with his support for Callahan or even the size of his office. It has everything to do with his opposition to the regional crime center.

You see, the regional crime center is promoted by the Lehigh Valley Partnership, and why the Hell not? Richard McAteer's old outfit, Computer Aid, is making $2.8 million just for a development contract. Imagine how much more that could be if Northampton County were forced to fund it, too. All in the name of regionalism. Never mind that the state is working on this problem. Never mind that state police refuse to be  part of the regional crime center. Never mind that DA John Morganelli has said No. Never mind that a minimum of $500,000 in Northampton County tax dollars would be spent to fight Allentown crime. Never mind that Sheriff Miller, a tech savvy cop, was never sold on this idea.

If you want to know who Richard McAteer is and why that matters, see my post above. McAteer is the retired Steel Exec and Lehigh Valley Partnership member who ruined Easton for Phil Mitman. He now seems intent on ruining Northampton County for John Brown.

We really don't need former Bethlehem Steel management telling us how to run our government. They've done quite enough.

A Winter Poem

A Friend sent this magical poem to me and I thought I'd share it with you. I can be an artsy-fartsy, too.

A poem by Abigail Elizabeth McIntyre

SHIT!

IT'S COLD.

The End

Some Questions For Mr. Brown

On January 7, when Executive John Brown terminated Northampton County Sheriff Randy Miller, he declined to respond to questions from The Bethlehem Press, Express Times and Morning Call. He also declined to respond to a Bethlehem Press email, sent January 7 and again on January 9.

Here's what he was asked about his decision to terminate Sheriff Miller:

1) Did you discuss this decision with the Court before notifying Miller? Article X of the Administrative Code requires that decisions concerning appointment be reviewed with the Court. It is silent on the subject of termination, but since Sheriffs work closely with the courts, I'd like to know whether you discussed this with [President Judge] Baratta before you took action.

2) Do you have a successor in mind? According to an anonymous comment on my blog, you already have someone lined up. These comments are usually wrong, but I am curious.

3) Why did you wait so long to make this decision?

4) Don't you feel it makes other employees in the same position as Miller feel as though they are walking on ice?

On another point, have you considered withdrawing [Robert] Sletvold's nomination as [Public Defender]? This is already creating an administrative nightmare for the courts, and I am concerned that your appointment has handcuffed Sletvold the judge. If she is unable to do her job, people can get hurt. If a PFA contempt is delayed because she has a conflict as motions judge, this could mean some young mother is going to suffer.

Brown Terminates Sheriff Miller

Randy Miller

Northampton County Sheriff Randy Miller, who steered his department to state accreditation, has been terminated by Executive John Brown. Miller received word on January 7, the day after Brown took office. Brown reportedly told Miller he's done a phenomenal job, but plans to move in a different direction.

Miller was told to take all the time he wanted, but the Human Relations office later told him he has two weeks.

Bethlehem's former police commissioner, Sheriff Miller has served as Sheriff since 2009. He was the unanimous pick of former Executive John Stoffa, the Courts and County Council.

A graduate of Madison University, Miller supervised approximately 70 deputies, as well as civilian staff. He chairs the Northampton County Chiefs of Police Association, and prides himself on the use of law enforcement technology. He implemented 37 uses of technology in his years at Bethlehem, from GPS tracking to covert and overt camera systems.

The Sheriff is considered an at-will employee who serves at the pleasure of the Executive. During the campaign leading up to Brown's election, Miller supported Brown's opponent, John Callahan.

Who will succeed Miller? That's unclear. Brown failed to answer a phone call and several emails from The Bethlehem Press. Brown told County Council at their January 9 meeting that he will advertise for candidates, which is required by the Administrative Code. But he told The Express Times that he has several candidates in mind.

Brown has named Chief Deputy Chris Zieger as Acting Sheriff, effective January 10.

Northampton and Luzerne County are the only two counties in Pennsylvania with appointed, as opposed to elected, Sheriffs.

In Luzerne County, which recently adopted a Home Rule Charter, the Sheriff is selected as a result of a merit-based hiring procedure.

In Northampton County, the Administrative Code requires the Executive to advertise for qualified candidates, after which he must consult with the Court. The final choice must then be confirmed by County Council.

Miller's dismissal has prompted Council member Lamont McClure to urge Council to consider a referendum that will enable the people to decide whether they want to return to elected Sheriffs. "Almost all Pennsylvania counties give the people the right to decide who their Sheriff is going to be," he argued.  Echoing McClure, Council member Ken Kraft said it would make sense to have a Sheriff who could run concurrently with the District Attorney, and a time when people have law enforcement on their minds.

Blogger's Note: This story, which first published on Tuesday, has been updated as a result of last night's County Council meeting.

Meet Northampton County's Legal Brains

Phil Lauer (L) and Vic Scomillio (R) will provide legal advice to Council and the Executive

Though it's a 5-4 divided body with a new president, things were both smooth and fast at the first real meeting of Northampton County Council on January 9. In her new role as President, Peg Ferraro started things off with a prayer. It appears her prayer was answered. Executive John Brown's choice for County Solicitor, Bethlehem Attorney Victor E. Scomillio, was unanimously confirmed. In addition, Council unanimously agreed to hang on to their own lawyer, Phil Lauer.

Scomillio, who has been practicing law since 1997, is a partner at the Boyer, Holzinger Harack and Scomillio law firm on Linden Street. An avid Lacrosse player and coach, Vic got his start as a clerk to Judge Robert E. Simpson. He is a past President of the Northampton County Bar Association. He will be paid $58,060 per year for this part-time position

The only assistant solicitor Scomillio will retain is David Backenstoe. He intends to run the office entirely with part-time staff, in contrast to the approach taken under former executive John Stoffa.

In addition to being Solicitor, Brown has designated Scomillio as Acting Executive in the event some emergency prevents Brown from serving.

Lauer, who like Scomillio is a graduate of Dickinson Law School, has been practicing law for over forty years, and is reputed to be among the top criminal defense attorneys in the state. He has been County Council's Solicitor since 2010. He will be paid $52,405 per year for this part-time position.

After they were confirmed, Council member Mat Benol noted that he just saw a memo concerning a lawsuit involving Council and the Executive, and suggested they "put it to rest." He noted that when different branches of the government sue each other, the taxpayers lose.

One nomination that interestingly was not discussed at this meeting was Brown's pick for Chief Public Defender, Bob Sletvold. He is married to Jennifer Sletvold, who was elected Judge in November. President Judge Stephen Baratta has determined that, to avoid the appearance of impropriety, she will be unable to hear any matter involving the Public Defender's office.

In her first day on the bench, Judge Sletvold was unable to hear several Protection From Abuse (PFA) Contempt petitions, in which indigent defendants have the right to a public defender. Those natters were heard by a different judge.

Is Gerwig Resigning in Upper Mount Bethel?

Supervisors Robert Gerwig may be resigning his post as Supervisor in Upper Mount Bethel Township. But he's not talking about it. Not exactly.

When i heard the rumor yesterday, i gave him a call and told him I heard that he submitted his resignation to Supervisors following their Monday night meeting. Apparently, it was right after they unanimously voted to make Mr. Hankey the official mascot in Upper Mount Bethel.

I tracked Gerwig down on the phone.

"Howdy Ho, Mr. Gerwig!"

- "Who the Hell is this?"

"This is Bernie O'Hare, the Christmas poo. Actually I'm a blogger."

- "What the Hell is a blogger?"

"I write stories, kinda' like a reporter. ... Except everything I write is bullshit and I do no research."

- "Did Angle put you up to this?"

"Heavens, no. I hate the guy. He wants to spread shit everywhere. Anyway, I'm tracking down a rumor that you'e resigning and gave Supervisors your letter of resignation on Monday night. True?

- "Not exactly. I don't speak to the press. Good night!"

Women hang up on me all the time, but this is a first from an old fart. He probably sensed I was about to hit on him. But he called me a member of the press. That hurt.

I'm a bottom-feeding blogger, damn it!

My conclusion?

Gerwig is calling it quits, but the rumor is "not exactly" correct.

Gotta' love the complete lack of transparency, though. How do these guys get elected? Oh yeah, we just elected a Northampton County Executive who acts the same way.

So who will take over? Well, Ron Angle is wearing his Commodore outfit again. I thought that meant Brown was appointing him Sheriff, but I think he'd prefer Supervisor so he can make Upper Mount Bethel a shit friendly place to live.

Dem Governor Forum at LU on 1/22

Local Democrats have invited all Democratic Governor candidates for a form at Lehigh University's Iacocca Hall on January 22. Doors open at 5 pm and the event starts at 6 pm. The candidates who have committed so far are the follwong:

John Hanger (former DEP Sec'y)
Jo Ellen Litz (Lebanon County Comm'r)
Katie McGinty (another former DEP Sec'y)
Max Myers (Mechanicsburg Pastor)
Ed Pawlowski (Allentown mayor)
Tom Wolf (former Sec'y of revenue)

The apparent front runners, Allyson Schwartz, Jack Wagner and Bob McCord, do not appear to have committed at this juncture./

Farmland Preservation Board Recognizes Ron Angle

John Stoffa, Ron Angle and Board member Andy Thierry

Northampton County's Farmland Preservation Board, at their January 7 meeting, had two unusual guests. One of them, former Executive John Stoffa, has been out of office just one day. The other, former Council member Ron Angle, has been gone for two years. But the Board recognized and honored Angle for his commitment to farmland preservation.

Angle was cited specifically for the $2 million farmland deal he negotiated with developer Charles Chrin. In October 2011, Charles Chrin sought a TIF from Northampton County for a 689-acre business park he was proposing at the northern end of Palmer Township. A TIF is a special arrangement which allows a developer to use the increase in real estate taxes to fund more infrastructure. It requires the approval of the municipality, school board and county.

Chrin had a good argument. For one thing, he was willing to pay for the cost of an Interchange along Route 33 near Tatamy. Even more importantly, it is expected to produce 3,500 jobs. But it gobbles up 689 acre of farmland.

The TIF had already been approved by Palmer Township and the Easton School District. But the County had to sign off as well.

Maria Bentzoni

Angle negotiated a commitment from Chrin to set aside 1.5 per cent of the gross sales price of each lot as sold for farmland preservation, capped at $2 million. According to then Executive Stoffa, this money would be used to get matching grants from the state, and thus enable the County to preserve 650 acres of farmland.

"Nobody else could have done it," Stoffa told the Farmland Preservation Board.

"It's not easy dealing with Charlie Chrin," remarked Board member Bob Doerr.

"It's much harder dealing with me," wisecracked Angle.

A little more seriously, he said that public officials have to try to be more innovative in getting money from developers and others at a time when state funds are diminishing.

The Board meeting was attended by Farmland Preservation Administrators Maria Bentzoni and Barbara Martucci, along with Board members Andy Thierry, Todd Gulick, Terry Kromer and Bob Doerr.

They are an unheralded board that has now preserved 13,007.26 acres on 136 farms in Northampton County.

"We're going like gangbusters," noted Bentzoni, who told the Board she has just received 27 new applications.

During his eight years in office, Stoffa doubled the amount pf preserved farmland, although Northampton County still lags behind the 20,000 acres preserved in Lehigh County.Board member Todd Gulick told Stoffa, "Without you, we'd still be languishing."

"We're catching up," Bentzoni said.

Stoffa credited Bentzoni for all the work she and her small staff have done over the years.

"The only thing I'm not doing is knocking on doors," she joked.

She noted that between 2002 and 2007, the County was losing four square miles of farmland every year. But she believes that has slowed down.

"We have developers calling us, trying to offload their inventory," she remarked.

Scheller to Waive Her Pay in Lehigh

According to The Express Times, Lisa Scheller was re-elected Chair of Lehigh County's Board of Commissioners during their Monday reorganization. But what I find interesting is that she agreed to waive her salary.

Her detractors might say she's finally getting paid what she's worth. But I consider it a very noble gesture on her part. She's loaded, doesn't need the money, and is in effect donating $8,000 to her County in addition to whatever she pays in taxes.

I don't share her philosophy on most issues, and don't expect other Commissioners to follow suit. But it's an indication to me that she's sincere.

In four years, who knows?

Spadoni Hangs On in Bethlehem

At its reorganization last night, Bethlehem City Council took no action to replace its Solicitor, Chris Spadoni. I had heard from numerous sources that Spadoni would be replaced by Jack Spirk, John Callahan's former Solicitor. But that has not happened

At least, not yet. 

Spadoni has served Bethlehem for the past 18 years.

His salary is very low, hovering around $20,000 for what sometimes amounts to a 40-hour week.   

Sletvold PD Appointment Creating Judicial Headaches

Judge Jennifer Sletvold is Motions Judge this week. This is to go-to judge for anyone who needs an immediate ruling. But her husband's recent appointment as Chief Public Defender is already creating headaches for the Court, in the middle of a busy week of criminal trials.

Because of that appointment, Judge Sletvold is unable to entertain any matter involving the Public Defender's office because it creates an appearance of impropriety.

So yesterday, Sletvold was unable to hear several PFA contempt petitions as well as some bail matters because of the involvement of the public defender's office. Now I suppose you could let these defendants run unfettered until something terrible happens. The courts instead dispatched Judge Paula Roscioli to hear these matters, which took her away from criminal trials.

This appointment is a completely unnecessary disaster. Although the Republicans have the political clout to confirm Bob Sletvold as Public Defender, this is bad government. What is worse, it could lead down the road to someone getting hurt.

Diacogiannis Wins Coin Toss in Hanover

John Diacogiannis will chair Hanover Township's Board of Supervisors again in 2014. "We used a two-headed coin," he explained. The oath of office was administered by Judge Emil Giordano.

Keeping Bethlehem Tp Safe From Birdfeeders

I'm getting tired of writing about all the shit in Upper Mount Bethel Township. But I've got a new story. Rats. They came up during Monday night's reorganization meeting in Bethlehem Township.

Township residents Diane and Bill Ganssle have been cited by Abraham Hoffer, Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector, because their backyard birdfeeders might attract those dirty, disease-carrying, cheese-stealing vermin.

Ganssle denies she's ever seen a rat on her property. "There is enough government control in this country," the obvious rat lover complains. "We don't need rules for birdfeeding in our township which will ultimately cause our birds and wildlife to suffer."

Sounds like the tea party.

This story requires a full blown investigation. The Ganssles have agreed to let me visit their birdfeeders and report back to you on their terrible danger they present to the community.

Besides, I might know some of the rats.

Nolan Takes Reins in Bethlehem Township

Pat Breslin takes oath as Commissioner

Pat Breslin was sworn in as Commissioner during the January 6 reorganization meeting of Bethlehem Township Commissioners. Breslin defeated fellow Republican Paul Weiss, an incumbent, during the Spring primary. Weiss went on to wage a write-in campaign in November, but was 18 votes shy.

A motivational speaker, Breslin had no remarks after taking the oath, which was administered by Magisterial District Judge Joseph Barner.

Incumbent Commissioner Michael Hudak, who defeated Mickey Thompson in November, was also sworn into office by Judge Barner.

Thomas J. Nolan, who has been a part of Bethlehem Township government for more than 30 years, was elected President of the Board of Commissioners in a 3-2 vote. Nolan voted for himself, and was joined by Michael Hudak and Phil Barnard.

Marty Zawarski, who lost the presidency to Nolan, was elected Vice President in another 3-2 vote over Hudak. Zawarski voted for himself, and was joined by Barnard and Breslin.

Commissioners also unanimously agreed to appoint Melissa Shafer as their new Township Manager, effective March 10. Shafer succeeds Howard Kutzler, who resigned late last year to become South Whitehall Township's Director of Administration.

Shafer, who has a Master's Degree in Public Administration, is currently Chalfont's Borough Manager. In 2009, Shafer had urged that Borough to stop taping their meetings to avoid making tapes available under the state's Right-to-Know law, according to a Morning Call account. But a review of recent minutes reveals that the meetings are still being taped.

Bangor Council Report: Accused Pedophile Resigns

Stephanie Merlo, a volunteer volleyball coach at Pius X High School accused of inappropriate sexual behavior with a 17 year old student, has resigned her seat on Bangor Borough Council. David Houser, a Council member who publicly called for her resignation, announced that Borough Council unanimously agreed to accept her letter of resignation at their reorganization meeting last night.

Merlo stands accused of corrupting the morals of a minor as well as having sexual contact with her. She is free on $75,000 unsecured bail and awaits a February 12 preliminary hearing before District Judge Todd Strohe.  

Ferraro, Geissinger to Lead Northampton County Council

Peg Ferraro and Glenn Geissinger will lead NorCo Council in 2014

A veteran and rookie will lead Northampton County Council over the next year. In 5-4 votes that went strictly along party lines, Council chose Ferraro, a Republican, over Democrat Scott Parsons as their President during their reorganization meeting on January 6. They also elected Republican Glenn Geissinger as Vice President over Democrat Ken Kraft.

No other business was conducted.

Ferraro has served on County Council between 1990-1997, and again from 2001 until now. In November's election, she was the top vote-getter and even had the support of Democrat Ken Kraft. In contrast, Geissinger never ran for office before last year.

After her election as president, Ferraro addressed her Democratic colleagues. "I get it," she smiled. "Now the Republicans and Democrats must evaporate."

Ferraro, who has had her sights set on a Council presidency for several years, admitted that it was a "big occasion for me." She then thanked numerous of the people who helped her along the way, including her parents, her deceased husband, a neighbor,and deceased GOP Chair Charlie Roberts.

"He was my mentor," she conceded.

Unfortunately, all of the people Ferraro thanked were Republicans. This infuriated Democrat Ken Kraft, who posted this complaint at social media site Facebook.

"It's amazing to me how people forget that an at large seat is only won when BOTH parties vote for you. Shame on you and your lopsided speech. You owe half the voters in Northampton County an apology...

"Welcome to partisan politics, NorCo."

A retired teacher, Ferraro resides in Bushkill Township. Geissinger, who owns Alliance Media Group, lives in Plainfield Township.

Executive John Brown: I Am Here To Serve

John Brown: "I am here to serve"

On January 6, before a standing room only crowd of over 300 people and a crisply uniformed color guard, a gavel banged and Northampton County's entire bench entered into historic Courtroom One. Despite the portraits of dour jurists who are long since gone, President Judge Stephen Baratta assured his audience they were all there for a "family occasion." To be sure, dignitaries galore were in the courtroom, including state representatives, state senators and Lehigh County Executive Tom Muller. But husbands, wives and children were there too, to see the persons they love take an oath that might sometimes make service to the public take priority over family.

John Brown was sworn in as Northampton County's seventh County Executive. Mat Benol, Peg Ferraro, Glenn Geissinger, Hayden Phillips and Seth Vaughn took the oath as members of County Council. The oath of office was also administered to Magisterial District Judges Antonia Grifo (downtown Easton), Dan Corpora (South Easton), John Capobianco (Nazareth) and Pat Romig-Passaro (Bethlehem).

LC Exec Tom Muller and wife MJ offer best wishes to Brown

Courtroom One and the entire bench provided the dignity, and the pomp and circumstance came courtesy of the Corrections' Officer Color Guard, which includes a bagpiper.

Much like John Stoffa, the person he succeeds, Brown had little to say. But he stressed the need for everyone to work together.

"I am here to serve," he concluded.

President Judge Baratta reminded everyone of Theodore Roosevelt's words that "[t]he object of government is the welfare of the people." He also repeated Pope Francis' admonitions that public office requires both a love for people and humility. Finally, he cautioned magisterial district judges about the importance of being fair.

Though Northampton County has 33,000 more Democrats than Republicans, it now has a Republican Executive, a Republican County Council and even a Republican judiciary.

Corrections Officers;' Color Guard Adds Touch of Class

District Judges Dan Corpora and Antonia Grifo compare robes

Judges Craig Dally, Paula Roscioli and Ed Smith try to smile

Updated 9:25 Why was I there?: I do not ordinarily attend these formal ceremonies. For example, I never attended a John Stoffa or Ron Angle installment. But I notice that I am being called a liar for being at this one. I was there because I was assigned to cover it. And I'm glad I went because it was a very well done affair.

Who's On First?

There's no way i can be everywhere, but the first Monday in January is always a busy day in local government. Throughout the state, including the Lehigh Valley, newly elected officials will be sworn into office and new board chairs will be selected. What's going to happen?

Northampton County Council. - It seems clear that top vote-getter Peg Ferraro will be elected Council President, a position she has always wanted. I doubt the body will confirm Executive John Brown's two new cabinet selections - Solicitor Vic Scomilio and Public Defender Bob Sletvold - until they meet during a regular meeting.

When they do meet, they should reject Sletvold's nomination as Public Defender. That's because the Court has told The Express Times it is unwilling to let her hear any case in which any Public Defender is involved. Judge Sletvold refused to speak to me about it last week. 

It creates an appearance of impropriety. 

True, she can still hear criminal cases in which the public defender's office has no involvement, but that's a relatively minuscule amount of the caseload. What this will do is create a tremendous administrative headache for a court that has other, more pressing, matters on its plate, like a speedy trial.

If Sletvold is unwilling to withdraw his nomination on his own, Council should vote against his confirmation. He is an excellent lawyer who could serve as conflicts counsel or in any of a number of other capacities. But this is one Sletvold too many.

This will be an early test for the new Republican majority on Council. Will they be more interested in party loyalty or good government?

Instead of being a political perk, the Public Defender position should be a full-time position held by a person who has made a career of criminal law. In fact, that's precisely what has just happened in Lehigh County.

Lehigh County Commissioners - Tom Creighton will be the swing vote in deciding whether Lisa Scheller, Scott Ott or Percy Dougherty is the next chair. Vic Mazziotti will have to consult with his parish priest.

Bethlehem. - There is little doubt that Willie Reynolds will be the next president of City Council. According to The Morning Call, there is some grumbling about Mayor Bob Donchez' pick for police chief - Lt. Mark DiLuzio. He may not be the person who Reynolds would have selected, but Willie's not the mayor. I've heard nothing that would disqualify DiLuzio, unless being popular with rank-and-file police officers is a disqualification.

Bangor. - Mayor Joe Capozzolo, who is succeeding NorCo Exec John Brown, is being sworn into office by Congressman Matt Cartwright. "I will have a heavy heart without my friend John Kasten [borough manager] there, but I look forward to serving the people of Bangor Borough and honoring the memory of Mr. Kasten."

Cap, as people call him, told me he needs to hire a new police chief.

Will one Council member, who by her own admission supplied a high school student with marijuana, resign? 

Upper Mount Bethel. - Though the northern tier is in the midst of a shit storm over land owner Ron Angle's plans to fertilize his farms with sludge, they have to pick a new Chair. Judith Henckel, who chaired the board last year, was voted out of office. She has been replaced by David Due. Right after they pick a new chair, the shit slinging resumes.

Bethlehem Township. - President Paul Weiss was defeated in the elections last year, though he plans to remain involved in Township business. He was defeated by Pat Breslin. Marty Zaworski plans to make a play for President, but I'm sure Tom Nolan is interested in the presidency, too. My guess is that Nolan will be elected.

The township has been actively engaged in finding a new manager to replace Howard Kutzler, who resigned late last year for a position in South Whitehall.

It is likely that a new manager will be announced tonight.

Hanover Township. - There is no intrigue here. No power games. They'll probably flip a coin.

Please feel free to fill me in with your own palace intrigues.

Allentown Police Fails Its Citizens

Back in August, I told you the story of an Allentown single mother whose car was stolen. Whitehall police found her car the very next day. They asked Allentown to notify her, but Allentown delayed until this woman's car was both towed and impounded for a weekend. Police couldn't be bothered to tell her whether they had recovered her purse and credit cards. To get the car back, she had to pay a towing and storage fee because no one had bothered to tell her about the car until it was too late. She had to pay $242, without even knowing if it would roll off the lot. Allentown did call to tell her she'd have to keep it in impound a few more days if she wanted them to investigate who had stolen it. My conclusion, at the time, was that in Allentown, the criminal justice system fails the working poor. But it seems that Allentown's overworked police department is failing everyone else, too. Let me tell you the story.

Joanne Egan Bauer is an educator and an Allentown School Director. Not exactly working poor. But police did next to nothing for her when her car was stolen from Fairview Street, on December 19, between 16th and Fulton. 

Unlike the working mother I described in August, Bauer did have collision and comprehensive. But with very high deductibles. So like the working mom, she ended up paying as well. At Chtistmas.

Having a car stolen is a very stressful event that leaves the victim feeling violated and insecure. Even Bauer, who seems to have it together a lot better than most people, was quite upset.

On December 30, Bauer's car was recovered near 15th and Linden. It was heavily damaged in the front and side  Police had it towed away, and Bauer wss told she'd have to wait for that fingerprint team. In the meantime, she'd foo the towing and storage bill out of her own pocket.

On January 2, it appears that police dusted the car, and Bauer got to see it. She discovered two cellphones (believed stolen), a 6" knife and blood on the front seat of the car. Under the front seat mat, her husband discovered a credit card and debit card that appeared to be stolen from a local insurance agent.

After dusting the car, police traipsed off, leaving the stolen merchandise and knife in the car. They never collected the material or bothered to preserve a chain of custody for a subsequent prosecution, assuming they actually investigate the theft.

On January 4, Bauer had enough. She went to a local police substation to return the stolen credit cards that police had failed to pick up two days before. Here's how she explains what happened.

We go to the sub station at 10th and Hamilton and the police officer with no personality allows me to explain to him - amongst my bronchitis coughing--that I want to turn in these two credit cards. He doesn't want them. He is making excuses about why they didn't come on Thursday (Jan. 2) and allowed us to wait there for over an hour without a courtesy call to tell us that they wouldn't be there.  Now, he won't take the cards, wants me to go back to collision center and wait again. I say I am sick - nothing in the car is mine.  He won't take the credit cards. I am repressing myself as I do not want to get arrested for disorderly conduct - just take the guy's credit cards and contact him. I finally fly the cards through a slit in the plexiglass and request my license back-- he is like the sgt. from gomer pyle show--so unpleasant and down right rude -- remember - I think that I am the victim -- ha -- so hopefully they will get in contact with this man. Maybe they will go and get the knife, maybe they will, maybe, maybe, maybe -- so now I think about how good some people are in their jobs and then I think about how bad some people are in their jobs - I have not had one acceptable encounter with the Allentown police department about my stolen/crashed and disabled car--

So it seems that it does not matter whether you're a member of the middle class or the working poor. Allentown police are failing everyone.

Is this because they're all lazy bums who don't give a shit about the people they are sworn to protect and serve? No. My experience has been that most officers are probably very conscientious. But there simply aren't enough if them.

Allentown is starting 2014 with 206 officers, only three more than existed in 2009. Fourteen senior level officers retired last year, and it appears that the force is suffering. Fortunately, one of them, Daryl Hendricks, has been elected to City Council.

Allentown's public safety has to be the top priority of any City administration, not building hockey arenas or hob nobbing with well-heeled donors or launching a gubernatorial campaign.

This has been Edwin Pawlowski's single biggest flaw as Mayor. It is not a perceived problem, but a very real one. It needs the attention of a Mayor, not a candidate for Governor.

The Fake Rev's "Humble Pride"

Fake Rev Mario Martinez, who lives in Forks Township, recently praised himself and his group in a self-congratulatory essay about Gracedale. Three years after it's over, he's still demonstrating his "humble pride."

As we near the end of 2013, we look back with humble pride at the history making event - "The Gracedale Initiative".

Regardless what any one person may say, the Gracedale saga unified the community and the county in a manner never witnessed or experienced before. Not in Northampton County. And, in all probability...not in the state or the nation.

Move over, George Washington and Ben Franklin. The Fake Rev now considers himself a founding father.

Happy El Dia de Reyes

Christians call it Epiphany. But in Puerto Rico, Mexico and many other Latin American countries, January 6 is knows as 'El Dia de Reyes', or Three Kings Day. It commemorates the day that three wise men brought gifts for Baby Jesus. For many Latin American kids, Monday is the day they get their gifts. So if you saw a bunch of people rushing around at Target and Wal Mart in icy weather, you know why.

Kids who have Latino and non-Latino parents must make out like bandits.

This is also considered the last day of Christmas.

How Did Your Municipality Handle 2014's First Storm?

I'd give Nazareth an "A". They don't just plow the snow, but actually pile it into trucks and drive it away, probably to Bethlehem.

It's hard to find a place to park, but Easton, Wilson and Palmer all get the snow off the streets.

One of my friends is slamming Bethlehem for not declaring a snow emergency. He said that failure makes it impossible for the plows to be effective. Is he wrong?

West Easton is getting slammed, too. Its roads are plowed, but blogger Matt Dees reports that only one street had been salted as of one full day after the storm.

So how did your municipality handle 2014's first major storm?

CACLV Requests Bidding on Food Assistance Contract

Lamont McClure

You don't see this every day. Most County vendors are delighted when they discover they are considered sole service providers. It means they have the work if they want it. But Alan Jennings wants to be able to bid on a Northampton County contract to provide food assistance to those in need.

The Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley(CACLV), led by Alan Jennings, has its genesis in LBJ's 1964 War on Poverty.  It is a community action program designed to empower the poor in low-income communities. Jennings will be the first to admit he's losing the war. He keeps on fighting, but he now has an unlikely enemy - Northampton County Council.

His problem with Northampton County Council started when he decided to hire Ross Marcus last September. At that time, Marcus was County Director of Human Services. This hire was a technical breach of contractual language preventing Jennings from hiring a County employee for a year after he leaves government.

Northampton County has what is called a "revolving door ordinance." It's designed to prevent County employees from negotiating big contracts with a major vendor, and then going to work for it. It has happened. Many years ago, a fiscal officer convinced the County to switch pension advisers, after which he went to work for the selected firm. Similarly, a former public works director resigned for a job with an engineering firm that he recommended repeatedly for County work. The danger here is that the public employee will subordinate the best interests of the County to his own pecuniary interest.

But in the case of CACLV, the area's major poverty fighting organization, contracts for County services existed long before Marcus worked there.So Executive John Stoffa characterized the breach as "technical". He reasoned that the evil at which the ordinance is aimed, did not exist. To be safe, he and CACLV's Alan Jennings executed amendments to county contracts under which CACLV agreed that Marcus, its new hire, would perform no role in the negotiation or execution of any county contracts for a period of one year.

That wasn't enough to satisfy County Council. They enacted changes to the Administrative Code that would prohibit any County employee from serving on boards of any organization that does business with the County. This directly impacted CACLV, whose board included two County employees. Council member Lamont McClure told Jennings, "[Y]ou understood what the law in Northampton County was, but due to your leverage, you chose to hire Mr. Marcus anyway."

Jennings just received a new proposal to provide food assistance to the needy in Northampton County. He is asking that the service be bid., and made his intentions known in a January 2 email to Executive John Stoffa.

"In light of Council’s vociferous objections to CACLV hiring former human services director Ross Marcus, including vocal, public criticism of the agency that questioned my integrity and that of the agency, I would respectfully decline to execute the contract without a formal bidding process."

A Judge With a Heart

Judge Giordano,with sister Margaret and brother Joseph

Though a snow storm was quickly approaching from the West, nearly 200 people attended Northampton County Judge Emil Giordano's retention ceremony on January 2. Nine judges, from recently elected Jennifer Sletvold to Senior Judge Leonard Zito, were also present. None of them could issue a Court Order banning snow that day, but they were able to wish Judge Giordano success over his next ten years no the bench. President Judge Stephen Baratta administered the oath.

Instead of politicians, Giordano's audience included high school friends, Moravian College fraternity brothers and family. Lots of family.

Judge Giordano with his mother Maria

A Hanover Township resident, Judge Giordano began practicing law in 1987. A triathlete at the time, Giordano taught aerobics to a class that included Congressman Charlie Dent, Judge Lenny Zito and Senator Lisa Boscola.  He credited Judge Zito with advising against running a negative race for DA against John Morganelli. Giordano lost that race, but went on to become a judge. John Morganelli was among those congratulating him at the retention ceremony.

Giordano said that, on the bench, his decisions will inevitably make one side unhappy. But he said his job is to hear everyone out. "One should only be deprived of liberty or property after being heard," he remarked.

Attorney Jay Leeson called Giordano a rare jurist who is "not afraid to admit he does not have all the answers."  But Leeson claims that Giordano's finest quality is that he "has a heart and he uses it."

Another attorney, Victor Scomilio, stated that Giordano's family "instilled a work ethic in him."

That family included Giordano's father, Joseph, an Italian immigrant who established the Pizza Village franchise in the Lehigh Valley. Though he passed away in 2010, Judge Giordano remembered and thanked his father yesterday for recommending the law over pizza.

Giordano is active as a coach and spectator in youth sports, from baseball to basketball.

Peeps Fest 2013 Brings Snow ... and Smiles

Steelstacks parking requires a short walk from a free lot to the ArtsQuest Center. That's usually part of the fun. That fun became a challenge in the bone-chilling cold of Peeps Fest 2013, in which snow and winds conspired to interrupt any merriment. But even Mother Nature should know that it's next to impossible to keep kids from having a blast. If their smiles are any indication, the fifth annual Peeps Fest was a roaring success. It was easy on the wallet, too, as most of the events for free. Here's how it worked.

Parents and kids would go outside for free stuff until the first signs of frostbite began to appear. Then they'd crowd into the PBS studio, Event Center, and Visitor Center to warm up and get more free stuff. You'd be shocked at the number of 3 year-olds who sat quietly through a very dry Bethlehem Steel documentary at the Visitor Center. It had seats and was warm. But once they'd thaw, they'd be outside again.

Outside, people would line up for blocks for free stuff, which could be a refrigerator magnet or tote bag.

Then it would be back inside to warm up. Breanna Good, age 6, and brother Blake, age 4, spent some time inside the Coca Cola Ski Chalet, made of Coca Cola cases.

Back out in the cold, Krystal Elphinstone, age 13, and mother Jennifer, toast up smores.

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Sure, there were sled dogs and even penguins, but these kids were more entertained by the railings.

Back inside, wood turner Ed Youtz mesmerized kids with the simplest of toys, spinning tops. Jackson Polansky, age 7, watched every turn of the wheel.

Back outside, Linken Parry, age 4, and Sera Schmauder, age 7, meet Frosty the Snowman.

Inside or out,everyone warmed up when Starfish began playing and Peeps danced on stage.

Festivities ended when a 30-pound peeps chick descended from the old steel works.

Ripped Off at the Pump

Governor Tom Corbett will likely pay a price next election cycle when people start paying more at the pump because of his gas tax hike, which went into effect yesterday. This latest violation of his no tax pledge will send many more Lehigh Valley residents to New Jersey when their tanks approach "E". The working poor and shrinking middle class simply can't afford it.

But when you cross the free bridge into Jersey, be careful. One courthouse worker (I'll keep her identity anonymous) is reporting on her Facebook page that she's already been ripped off by an Exxon Mobile gas station on Route 22 in Phillipsburg. She asked for $20 in gas, but learned she had been charged $98.36. When called on the matter, the manager called it a "mistake." She attempted calling her bank to dispute the charge, but it's closed for the holiday.

Government gets you on one end, and uncaring gas stations at the other.

NBC: Liberty High School Marching Band at the 2014 Rose Bowl Parade

One Sletvold Too Many?

The Express Times is now reporting that Bob Sletvold has been nominated as the next Chief Public Defender by Executive-elect John Brown. I had warned you this would happen last week. Sletvold is an excellent lawyer, but is this one Sletvold too many?

Sletvold's wife, Jennifer, was elected judge in November's election. A Republican, she garnered the nomination of both parties in the primary. Had there been a contested race against Chris Spadoni or Abe Kassis, that would have increased Democratic turnout. So Brown, a Republican, owes Sletvold. This is his way of saying thanks.

But here's the problem. Bob Sletvold concedes that he could not represent anyone in a matter in front of his wife, but thinks that is an unlikely occurrence. But if he is conflicted, then so are the lawyers who work under him. That basically means that Judge Jennifer Sletvold will be unable to hear any criminal cases.

If the Sletvolds ignore propriety and forge ahead, they are exposing the County to all sorts of litigation down the road from disgruntled inmates who will claim their case was mishandled.

Northampton County Council must confirm Sletvold. Five of its nine members are Republicans.