Retired Firefighter Seeks Bethlehem City Council Seat

He's a south side resident who understands the plight of a the blue collar worker. He's a retired city firefighter who was seriously injured while fighting a fire. His name is Dave Saltzer, and he is running for Bethlehem City Council.

He was also the IAFF Local 735 President.

Four Bethlehem City Council are up for grabs this year. They are currently held by Michael G. Colón (Gracedale Admissions Coordinator), Shawn M. Martell (Nazareth High School teacher), J. William "Willie" Reynolds (William Allen High School teacher) and Dr. Paige Van Wirt (physician). Martell has decided against seeking a second term while Reynolds seeks re-election. Dr. Van Wirt, a Council appointee, has yet to announce. Colón has offered no announcement, either.

Aside from Saltzer, there's two other newcomers. Grace Crampsie Smith, an Easton Area High School counselor, is running. So is motivational speaker Carol S Ritter.

So far, there could be as many as six people running for four seats.

Obviously, Saltzer would be a voice for first responders and offer Council members a different perspective. But what I like is that he would also be a voice for the often forgotten blue collar workers. In his announcement, he admits to having worked several jobs at a time to help make ends meet. That's an experience shared by many Bethlehem residents.

"Bethlehem is a historic steel city, made up of hard working people, and I want to be a voice for these hard workers," he said. "I feel like I can represent them because I’m just like them. I’d feel so honored to be able to do that.”

One negative. He's a Yankees' fan.

Dem DA Candidate Was Bucks County Resident Until October

Terry Houck

Terence Houck, John Morganelli's top Assistant District Attorney, is seeking the Democratic nomination as District Attorney. He's a tough prosecutor who is highly regarded by law enforcement, although criminals pretty much detest him. To some politicos, however, he's no good because he's from Bucks County and just moved here.

Records at the courthouse reveal that on October 24, Houck moved from Bucks County to Forks Tp. This was about a month before Morganelli announced he had decided against another term as District Attorney. It's no sham purchase. He encumbered the property with a hefty mortgage, meaning he has moved here for real. He obviously did this to be eligible to meet the residency requirement for the top prosecutor's office, and he does. To some, this makes him a carpetbagger.

As I indicate in my story below, this is really a nonissue. Houck has been trying cases in this county for years. He knows the lay of the land.

The real question, both for him and the other candidates, is whether he would make a good DA. I believe he would.

Dem DA Candidate Was Republican Until November 21

Nuria DiLuzio

Nuria DiLuzio, Northampton County's Chief Public Defender, is seeking the Democratic nomination as District Attorney. I have said she appears to the candidate to beat, but some local Dem politicos think they have found her Achilles heel. She only recently became a Democrat.

On November 19, DA John Morganelli announced that his current term, which ends December 31, will be his last. Two days later, DiLuzio switched parties from Republican to Democrat.

Her voting history goes back to 1996. It reveals that, except for 2012 and 2013, she has always voted as a Republican.

This is a bit strange. During the time I've known her, she has always supported Democrats locally. I have seen her at numerous political events for Democrats seeking office.

DiLuzio offers this explanation..

"In regard to the question of my voting record, I want to say unequivocally that I am a Democrat. My values align and have aligned with the values of the Democratic party, as evidenced by my support, both in time and resources, of Senator Lisa Boscola, District Attorney John Morganelli, County Executive Lamont McClure, Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez and most recently, Congressperson Susan Wild.

"My bi-partisan voting record is mostly evidence that I am not a political operative. My work and my values are more reflective of my ideology than what's on my voter registration card.

"If elected, as your District Attorney, you can trust that I will pursue policies that respect each and every one of our citizens and ensure that everyone has equal access and protection under the law."

My own view, for what it's worth, is that this is a nonissue. One of the most liberal people I know has always been a Republican. No jury I know has ever had much interest in political party. The real question is whether she would make a good District Attorney. I think she would.

"Reformer" Wild Brings Top Dem Donor to SOTU

Murat Guzel and Susan Wild

At last night's SOTU, both President Donald Trump and numerous members of Congress brought guests to use as props for points they wanted to make. Trump brought the surviving family of an elderly couple killed by an undocumented immigrant (or illegal alien) in January. Not to be outdone, Democrats hosted an air traffic controller, a Liberian under threat of deportation and at least least one transgender. So who did SusanWild, the Lehigh Valley's voice in Congress, bring? Was it the cancer survivor (and employee of Wild's law firm) who railed against Marty Nothstein in a TV ad? Was it the woman who must work a second job to pay for her health insurance? Nah. The candidate who said her top priority is campaign finance reform brought top Democratic donor Murat Guzel.

The message this sends is pretty clear.

Susan Wild lauded Guzel for his "countless contributions to the Lehigh Valley," but you can count them. They fill the coffers of local, state and national Democratic candidates.

In years of examining campaign finance reports, I've seen Guzel's name often. He contributes to just about every Democrat on the ballot. Lots of money, too. For example, he seeded Executive Lamont McClure's race with $5,000. But that's (organic) peanuts to him. As of April, 2018, the CEO of Natural Food Group and SMART Juices has contributed over $1 million to Democratic candidates through Super PACs, Hybrid PACs, historical soft money party accounts and joint fundraising. This is in addition to his direct contributions, which add up to at least $642,000 to 79 filers over the past nine years.

That's a lot of health food!

He even kicked in $5,000 to Governor Tom Wolf's first inauguration party.

Now I don't blame Democrats for taking this money. They need all the money they can get, what with the feds shutting down the money stream from engineers, developers and unions. Pay-to-play is more difficult these days. What could be more innocent than accepting a donation from a health food purveyor who presents himself, as he did in The Morning Call, as a successful new American?

If you're in Congress, there's lots wrong with taking money from this guy, though Wild took the maximum amount he could give.

Thanks to Wikileaks, we know that the man Wild invited as her SOTU actually may have paid a former Congressman to write a pro-Turkey op-ed. "[W]e were able to get an article from a very important person and we didn’t spent that much money for it,"he boasts in an email to a Turkish official. “To stand by Erdogan and do whatever we can against evil powers is not just an act of kindness but rather an Islamic obligation upon all of us,” he adds.

Through a lawyer, Guzel denies sending this email. Uh huh.

I'd like to know whether these political donations come from Guzel or Turkey.

In addition to his support for an authoritarian, Guzel has also lobbied Congress to end any financial support for the Kurds, who have been the driving force in the fight against ISIS. Aside from Israel, the Kurds have been our only real ally in the Middle East.

We complain about possible collusion with Russia, but it's pretty clear that Guzel is using either his or his country's treasure to support a strongman government in Turkey as well as suppress an ethnic minority. Considering that Erdogan had a goon quad beat up Kurdish protesters here in the United States, I am leery of both him and his health food salesman.

So there you have it. Our representative in Washington, who claims to be all about about campaign finance reform, brought a top Dem donor to the SOTU. Not just that, but a top Dem donor who supports an authoritarian and is all for suppressing an ethnic minority.

Brilliant, Susan.

My Dancing Days Are Over!

After work yesterday, I donned my candy man costume and headed over to Spanky's East to begin my second job as an exotic dancer. I'm very artistic, you know. I was greeted my three deputy sheriffs and a locksmith. They were padlocking the place.

Earlier that day, DA John Morganelli sought and obtained an emergency order to shut the place down. When I'm not there, things like prostitution, gunplay and drug activity are alleged.

I am totally shocked that something like this could happen at a place that, until recently, was called CR Fanny's.

I will tell you more about Morganelli's petition, which was granted ex parte by Judge Sam Murray. A full hearing is scheduled this Friday.

Holes in the Safety Net

One of the great things about this country, up until now, is that there's a safety net for families in dire financial straights. But authoritarian Donald Trump is cutting holes in it.  His council of economic advisers have declared that we've won the war on poverty, but that's what he likes to call "fake news." 

Let's look at the Lehigh Valley. According to a recent analysis by The National Association of Counties, $46.6 million in SNAP benefits (we used to call them food stamps) were paid in 2017 to 11,700 households.  In Lehigh County, $73.6 Million was paid to 18,700 families.  The number of children living below the poverty line was 8,531 in Northampton and 14,900 in Lehigh.

Under current law, an adult without dependents can only receive three months of SNAP benefits over a three year period unless enrolled in job training or school.

Under the latest farm bill, these benefits will be reduced about 1.7% over the next ten years.   

Who Says There's No Free Lunch?

I can tell you, first hand, that getting old is pretty shitty. But there are some perks. I can get into a movie theatre, high school or even college basketball game at a reduced rate. But I was completely unaware that I am also entitled to free lunches. Northampton County's 11 senior centers offer a free hot lunch daily to anyone over the age of 60, so long as a reservation is made the day before.

"We want to be as proactive as possible to protect the health of our older residents by making sure they have access to adequate nutrition,” says Executive Lamont McClure. He is also concerned that SNAP benefits could be cut off if there's another government shut down.

Here are the 11 senior centers where I can eat for free. One of them is convenienly located next to the courthouse.

I hope it's dairy free. I wonder if they serve Thai?

Easton Area Lifestyle Campus
3201 Sullivan Trail
Easton, PA 18042
610-829-3201

Slate Belt Senior Center
707 American Bangor Road
Bangor, PA 18013-9313
610-588-1224

Nazareth Senior Center
15 South Wood Street’
Nazareth, PA 18064
610-759-8255

Mid-County Senior Center
234 Walnut Street
Bath, PA 18014-1031
610-837-1931

Old York Road Senior Center
720 Old York Road
Bethlehem, PA 18018
610-867-4233

Rooney Senior Center
4 E. 4th Street
Bethlehem, PA 18015
610-865-2092

Basilio Huertas Senior Center
520 E. 4th Street
Bethlehem, PA 18015-1804
610-868-4096

Saucon Valley Community Center
323 Northampton Street, P.O. Box 111
Hellertown, PA 18055
610-838-6539

Cherryville Senior Center
4131 Lehigh Drive
Cherryville, PA 18035-1030
610-767-2977

Northampton Senior Center
902 Lincoln Avenue
Northampton, PA 18067-1725
610-262-4977

St. Anthony’s Youth Center, Inc.
Easton Area Community Center
901 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
610-253-8271

Immigration Activist Seeks Lehigh County Comm'r Seat

Two years ago, in at-large races for Northampton County Council, Republicans lost a 7-2 majority. Republicans lost four of five races. GOP incumbent Peg Ferraro, usually the top vote getter, hung on by a slim margin. This blue wave was replicated throughout the state. Many of those who voted for authoritarian Donald Trump were experiencing buyer's remorse. This year, four Lehigh County at-large Commissioner seats are up for grabs. Will history repeat itself? We'll know in November. So will David Harrington, a left-leaning Democrat and Lehigh Valley4All (who agree with them) organizer. He's running for one of those seats.

Like Northampton County, Lehigh County is governed by a strong executive under a Home Rule Charter. As Northampton County has a nine-member County Council, Lehigh County has a nine-member Board of Commissioners. These are primarily legislative bodies who hold the purse strings.

In Northampton County, four members of County Council represent districts, or geographic areas. The other five are elected at-large. In Lehigh County, it's five who represent districts. The remaining four are at-large. The salary is a pittance, $7,000, but it's a part-time gig. The four at-large Commissioners in Lehigh are Dan Hartzell, Amanda Holt, Marty Nothstein and Brad Osborne. All but Hartzell are Republican. I've received no announcements, but presume they all will run again. Late Friday, I received word that David Harrington, an immigration lawyer whose practice is based in Allentown, is running.

According to his LinkedIn page, Harrington is a 2013 graduate of Penn State and a 2016 graduate of Dickinson School of Law. While still in law school, he did clerk a few months for Superior Court Judge Bill Platt. He also worked as a field organizer at For Our Future, a SuperPac started by billionaire Tom Steyer and labor unions. He currently is employed as an immigration attorney at an Allentown law firm.

Harrington and his other Kathy are driving forces behind Lehigh Valley For All (who agree with them). Just as some members of the local tea party can be quite intolerant of different views, the same is true of some members of this group.

According to his web page, he's running " because I see a need in our county for a government that is focused on people first. We need to ensure that our community members, regardless of race, income, sex, gender, and background have a government that works for them. We must protect our most vulnerable in our community and ensure that when someone falls on hard times, they have the platform on which to lift themselves up. We need to ensure that our local government is not beholden to the wealthy and powerful, but answers to the working people that call Lehigh County home."

Last summer, he threatened to sue Lehigh County if it passes a law giving deputy sheriffs the power to honor detainers against undocumented immigrants in local custody. That would actually be the jail. Dean Browning, himself a former Commissioner and member of the Lehigh Valley Tea Party, said Lehigh County is a "sanctuary" jurisdiction because it refuses t honor detainer requests unless accompanied by a court order.

Both want to take a federal debate to a county level. County government's primary role is and should be human services, bridges and the courts.

I'm unsure but believe Harrington lives in Coopersburg.

Harrington will announce formally on Thursday, February 7, at Bell Hall in Allentown.

Lehigh County Deputy Coroner Seeking His Retiring Boss' Job

Lehigh County Coroner Scott M. Grim, a man with a name that really fits the job, has announced he is retiring. His top deputy, Eric D. Minnich, is seeking the Democratic nomination for Lehigh County Coroner in this year's election. Minnich, 41, began his employment with the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office as a part-time Deputy Coroner in 2006. By 2007, Minnich began as a full-time Deputy Coroner. In 2012, he was promoted to First Deputy Coroner and Operations Manager. Grim.

As First Deputy Coroner, Minnich oversees the daily operations of the office; including scheduling, staffing, training, monthly and yearly statistical reporting, policy development and review, disaster planning, interagency relations, vehicle maintenance and other duties that assist our office in completing its mission. Minnich has worked with several local school districts and assisted them with their Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) mock accident. This position has also allowed Minnich to work side by side with Coroner Grim and the rest of the Coroner’s Office staff at several major incidents; including the recent car explosion in Allentown and on several major projects; including the first re-accreditation at the new Forensics Center by the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners.

Prior to working for the County, Minnich worked as an EMT and Paramedic throughout the area. “My medical training and over 24 years of emergency medical experience has been a tremendous asset to my investigations and our office. Additionally, I’m serving my 28th year as a volunteer and Assistant Chief with the Neffs Volunteer Fire Company,” says Minnich.

“In seeking the position of Lehigh County Coroner, it is my hope to lead the office with the same respect, professionalism and compassion that I’ve come to know under the leadership of Coroner Scott M. Grim.” Minnich humbly asks for the voters, and all people of Lehigh County, the opportunity to serve them with his leadership and a strategy of continuing to operate the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office to the highest recognized standard.

Minnich plans to run an aggressive campaign, host and attend numerous meet and greets, and hopes to give the public a better understanding of what the duties and responsibilities of a Coroner involves.

He currently resides in Schnecksville with his wife Pamela, a Registered Nurse, and is the father of three girls.

Unlike Lehigh County, there is no election for Coroner in Northampton County. We're stuck with Zach Lyseck. He visited my gym with a body bag a few nights ago and just stood there, smiling, as I exercised.

"Push a little harder," he said. "You look a little pale."

Motivational Speaker Running for Bethlehem City Council.

Carol S. Ritter, a motivational speaker and small business consultant, has announced her candidacy for Bethlehem City Council. Her announcement indicates that she was born and raised in Bethlehem, but little else that is substantive. Where did she go to high school? College? Where did she work before becoming an expert? Her LinkedIn page indicates she studied organizational management at Moravian College for two years, but I have no idea if she has a Bachelor's, Master's or any degree. I also have little idea where she has worked.

Ritter hosts her own webpage, CarolTalks, where she holds herself out as a motivational speaker. I know she either is or was a trustee at Bethlehem  Food Co-Op.

She is also an alternate on Bethlehem's Zoning Hearing Board.

She did apply for the vacancy created by the resignation of Eric Evans from Bethlehem City Council early last year. Her response to a questionnaire from City Council members appears online. She was asked whether she'd be running for election this year. Her answer? "I currently have no intention to run for city council in the next election year."

Well, she is.

The only member of City Council to vote for her last year was Bryan Callahan. She lost out to Dr. Paige Van Wirt,.an exceptional candidate. That's understandable. Even Mother Teresa would have lost to Dr. Van Wirt.

At the time, Bethlehem resident and former political consultant Donald Flad spoke on Ritter's behalf. He said she has no personal agenda, she has no ax to grind, and only wants to see the City she loves so much continue to moves forward. Another person who worked with Ritter at Just Born about 20 years ago also spoke highly of this candidate.

I've learned she was a Northampton Area School Director between 2003 and 2007.

I get that she's a great motivator and consensus builder. I'd just like to know more details about her past history.

Four Bethlehem City Council are up for grabs this year. They are currently held by J. William "Willie" Reynolds (a government and history teacher at William Allen High School); Michael G. Colón (Gracedale Admissions Coordinator); Shawn M. Martell (Nazareth High School teacher); and Dr. Paige Van Wirt (physician). Martell has decided against seeking a second term. Also, Dr. Van Wirt was appointed to Council, not elected. It is believed that she and Colón are running, too, although I've received no announcement. Reynolds has announced he is seeking re-election.

Grace Crampsie Smith, an Easton Area High School counselor, is also running.

DaVinci Science Center Pitched to NorCo Council.

Blogger's Note: I was at a college basketball game last night and hence missed this pitch in person. My report is based on the NorCo Council video. 

DaVinci Science Center's Lin Erickson pitched her latest attempt at a "world  class" science center to a dubious Northampton County Council last night. What was originally a $130 million aquarium is now a $160 million nature dome and a 100' tall Vitruvian Man. But he'll be called a Vitruvian Person. Erickson said this latest plan is even better than an aquarium and on a par with The Franklin Institute and Carnegie Science Center. She also claimed it would draw up to 600,000 visitors a year.  She expects 2/3 of the money will come from the public. This is likely because the private sector is a little more careful in how it spends its money.

Easton Mayor Sal Panto, who also was a big cheerleader for the now defunct High School Hall of Fame, has already pledged $30 million of his city's money for this pipe dream. What's more, he has spent $5 million to buy an old hotel, where the DaVinci Science Center will stand. "We aim for the stars," he said. He should be little more concerned about being mooned when this falls on its face.

Erickson said that DaVinci has outgrown its current facility in Allentown. It plans to keep it for children aged 8 and under, and continue its mission of bringing "science to life and life to science" in Easton.

She's planning on a 130,000 sq ft facility, with 50,000 sq ft of exhibits The two major attractions are the Vitruvian Man Person and a "Nature Dome" in which animals live in eternal darkness.

Although this property is located within the flood plain, she said it will be built so that all interior areas will be above it. She called the outside area an urban wetland. Just like a swamp is actually a vernal pool.

You enter by going under and between the legs of the Vitruvian Man Person. Not sure I'd be so crazy about walking underneath the balls of a 100' tall man, but they won't be there. The poor bastard is a Vitruvian Eunech.

Council member Tara "Down With the Patriarchy" Zrinski questioned how a little girl would feel about seeing something that is supposed to be a celebration of the human body in male form.

"It kinda' sends a message," she remarked.

"I hear you totally," responded Erickson. "I'm a female myself." Zrinski said it should be male, female, and "everything in between."

I'm pretty sure that the Vitruvian Man Person is plastic, too, but that point eluded Zrinski.

Whatever it is, Erickson said there will be ramps so people can walk through different body parts and understand how they work. It's very scientific, you know.

The other main feature of this supposed Science Center is the nature dome. You'll be able to take a simulated walk along the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers watershed. You'll pass by a butterfly and insect garden and an indoor forest at night, with 45' tall trees and nocturnal animals that include bobcat, raccoons and oppossums. Don't know if there will be any vampires.

Council member Matt Dietz wondered who would be idiotic enough to pay $23.50 to see what he can see for free by simply going to Jacobsburg Park or walking along the real Delaware and Lehigh Rivers.

Zrinski wondered about the animals. What impact will this have on them? "To me, that sounds cruel," she said. She wondered why they'd be behind glass at all. Some guy named Joe Moore, who has already been paid quite a bit of money to shill this project, said the issue has been carefully studied and that all the animals would be rescues who could never survive in the wild.

Dietz questioned the visitor projections. How many of the 400,000-600,000 visitors per year are wealthy enough to come, he wondered. That information will be supplied to him.

So far, funding for this project has been a joke. $50.4 million in public funds have been "committed" by Easton and the state. Only $2.6 million in private money has been "committed."

"Your funding plan looks anemic," warned Council member Bob Werner. "Thank you for not asking us for any money."

That's coming, but Erickson was cautioned to lower her expectations by Werner, along with Council President Ron Heckman and Council member Kevin Lott.

This is simply a bad idea. I can't think of any sane person who would throw a dime at it. So I fully expect NorCo Council to give Erickson money.

Will Roverfan73 Seek Sixth Term as Easton Mayor?

Roverfan73 with African King

He's made no announcement, but Easton Mayor Sal Panto is running for an unprecedented sixth term. It's been an open secret for months. When he was first elected, he was the City's youngest Mayor. If he stays in office much longer, he'll be the oldest.

Panto, who disguised himself a few years ago as roverfan73 and tom18017 on the Lehigh Valley Live comment page, suffered no real damage for his dishonesty. In truth, despite his thin skin and monumental ego, he has been a good Mayor for the downtown. He's kept it "clean and safe" while the West Ward has become a war zone. He's raised no property taxes, which is evident from the decline in city services. Some of his ideas, like his $30 million commitment to a gigantic fish tank designed by architects who were not even licensed in Pa., could come back to haunt city residents. It's been replaced by something even more idiotic - a giant ant farm. There will also be an outdoor-indoor display of raccoons, skunks and other rodents, possibly elected officials.

Despite my criticism, Panto has been a proponent of affordable housing and the development of small organic businesses in Easton. He appears to be very popular and will be difficult to beat. City Council member Pete Melan might challenge him as well city activist Taiba Sultana. I doubt either can beat him, but choice is always a good thing.

Speaking of choice, I am unaware of any Republican who might be running.

Willie Reynolds Seeks Fourth Term

J. William "Willie" Reynolds, first elected to Bethlehem City Council in 2007, is seeking a fourth term. A government and history teacher at William Allen High School, Willie is a graduate of Liberty High School and Moravian College. An avid runner and former star basketball player, he is the voice for Moravian's Men's Basketball.

“Bethlehem continues to be a model of what a city can be in the 21st century - progressive, diverse, and economically strong," he said in a prepared statement. "I am asking the people of Bethlehem for their support for another term so we can continue the important progress we have made in the areas of climate action, neighborhood revitalization, open and transparent government, and economic development.”

Reynolds stated that he is proud of everything that has been accomplished during his previous four years on City Council including the successful implementation of several initiatives proposed in his “Bethlehem 2017” legislative agenda.

• Proposing and leading the creation of Bethlehem’s first climate action plan
• Northside 2027 – a unique partnership and revitalization strategy for neighborhoods involving citizens, the Bethlehem Area School District, and Moravian College
• Bethlehem’s first open data effort to improve access to public data in an effort to spur innovation and entrepreneurship
• Financial Accountability Incentive Reporting (F.A.I.R.) – an initiative designed to increase transparency and efficiency of economic development incentives
• Working with the Administration and City Council to improve the City of Bethlehem’s financial standing currently reflected in Bethlehem’s recent upgrade to a A+ bond rating from S&P
• Being a vocal advocate for state legislation related to environmental protection, equality, marijuana decriminalization, and increased funding for the Bethlehem Area School District
• Attending block watch meetings and remaining accessible to citizens for neighborhood issues and concerns

If re-elected, Reynolds vowed to continue implementing Bethlehem’s climate action plan, further develop Northside 2027 and extend Bethlehem’s open data initiative.

He also listed these priorities:
• economic redevelopment and revitalization efforts throughout the City.
• keep Bethlehem the safest mid sized city in Pennsylvania.
• improving governmental communication by modernizing Bethlehem’s social media channels in an effort to increase the efficient delivery of basic city services.
• Build cooperative strategies with the Bethlehem Area School District in an effort to combat issues currently affecting Bethlehem’s most vulnerable children.

Four Bethlehem City Council are up for grabs this year. In addition to Willie's seat, the others are currently held by Michael G. Colón (Gracedale Admissions Coordinator), Shawn M. Martell (Nazareth High School teacher), and Dr. Paige Van Wirt (physician). Martell has decided against seeking a second term. Also, Dr. Van Wirt was appointed to Council, not elected. It is believed that she and Colón are running, too, although I've received no announcement.

Grace Crampsie Smith, an Easton Area High School counselor, is also running.

Reynolds may be running for Mayor in two years, when Mayor Bob Donchez' second term ends.

I Got Distracted

I only had one post on Monday and am only getting back into writing mode now. Let me explain why.

I am, as most of you know, an alkie. Though I quit drinking in 1985, I still have what I would call an obsessive personality. I tend to get addicted to things. Some of these, like fatty food, are bad for me. Others, like exercise, can be good unless I overdo it. At one time, my motto was, "Anything worth doing is worth overdoing."  That has led to problems.

I leave it to you to decide whether my blogging penchant is positive or negative.

Lately, I've been distracted by another one of my negative additions. I love online strategy war games. In the past, I have missed days of work while sitting at home, in command of some fictional army. I also tend to spend money on it, too.

So yesterday, I was so caught up in online war games I neglected to post. I could tell you I was held up by basketball, but that would be a lie. You may laugh, but this is just one of my many problems.

If you think video game addiction hits only young teenagers, I can say it gets me too at times.

Moravian College To Offer Online MSPA Program

FROM MORAVIAN COLLEGE, January 28, 2019: Today, Moravian College announced it will officially launch the Online Master of Science in Predictive Analytics program (MSPA), the first online Graduate Business program offered by the college, at an event this Wednesday, January 30. The official launch of the program will be announced at Celebrate Innovation, an event being held Wednesday, January 30 at 4:30 p.m. on the Main Street campus of Moravian College in the Haupert Union Building at 1119 Monocacy Street, Bethlehem, PA.

“Launching this online graduate business program to meet the demands of the market is completely aligned with the mission of Moravian College, dating back to our start in 1742,” commented Bryon Grigsby, president of Moravian College. “We’ve worked hard to embrace technology and make it ubiquitous on campus for every student, and this online program is part of that evolution.”

The Moravian Graduate program has partnered with Extension Engine to build their online MSPA program which will begin offering classes in September 2019. Extension Engine is a world-class learning solutions provider and nationally recognized expert in online learning that has helped highly regarded institutions like Notre Dame, Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) build online learning programs.

“Our partnership with Extension Engine helps strengthen the college’s commitment towards innovation and the liberal arts tradition,” said Scott Dams, dean of graduate enrollment at Moravian College. “There is a pronounced need for data analytics professionals in the region, and the Online Master of Science in Predictive Analytics program will prepare graduates to meet that demand.”

(Blogger's Note: Moravian College has hidden my records and will deny this, but I graduated from that school after 13 years. The person who sent me this will probably be fired. I am happy to post notices from any college.)

NorCo Council Adopts NonBinding Plastic Straw and Bag Ban

Northampton County Council member Tara Zrinski wants all county municipalities to ban the use of plastic straws and bags.  She thinks the best way to make that happen is by having Northampton County Council adopt a non-binding, meaningless resolution. It was tabled last year, but she brought it up again at Council's January 24 meeting.

The arguments from the public were hardly what I'd call compelling. Bethlehem resident Peg Church spoke of a blue whale that had ingested 30 tons of plastic before going tets up. This is bullshit. I've read of a whale with 20 pounds of plastic, but there's a pretty big difference between 20 pounds and 30 tons. She also spoke of a sea turtle with a plastic stray lodged in its nose. Finally, she pointed out that in a recent trip to Scotland, she did not see one plastic bag. She does not know the answer, but "a resolution is as good as anything."

She was joined by a kayaker who complained about all the plastic he sees while paddling the Lehigh River. There was also a gentleman who for some reason discussed edible drinking bottles.

There are several problems with Zrinski's resolution. First, it was never vetted by a Council Committee, which is the norm. Second, it is essentially identical to one tabled in December. Zrinski dishonestly or mistakenly suggested her previous proposal was an ordinance. Third, it is nonbinding, meaning it means nothing. Fourth, no municipality I know of looks to Northampton County Council for guidance on anything. Fifth, the research cited in the resolution is flawed. Some of it, I kid you not, comes from a 10 year old's school project.

I agree that plastic pollution is a serious problem, but an unenforceable plastic straw ban is a joke mostly designed to make Zrinski and her followers feel like they've accomplished something while the world still goes to hell. They can pat themselves on the back while whales still die. What is a solution, here in the Lehigh Valley, is periodic sweeps along the waterways to pick up plastic. Open space money could be used for this and pay people with limited incomes, but we'd rather spend that money to preserve undevelopable swamps and cliffs.

Aside from Zrinski, I doubt any member of Council thinks this accomplishes anything. But it passed 6-2-1. The two No votes came from Matt Dietz and Peg Ferraro. John Cusick voted "present." The Democrats voted Yes, mostly because they fear a primary challenge from environmentalists.

Bill McGee was a bit miffed that Cusick voted "present." But his own vote was cowardly. A real ban, which is what Zrinski wants, would ruin small businesses. But McGee, like his fellow Democrats, is more interested in appeasing zealots than in doing what is in the best interests of the county.

Gracedale Ratings Below Average

Medicare assigns a star rating to each nursing home, from one to five, based on health inspections, staffing and quality measures. This is often used by families to determine where to send their loved ones.  Unfortunately, Gracedale's rating is going in the wrong direction. Its current rating is two stars, or below average. The most recent state survey, conducted in December, resulted in 11 deficiencies. Administrator Jennifer Stewart-King downplayed the significance of this most recent health inspection in brief remarks on Jan 24, but Northampton County Council President Ron Heckman wants to schedule a meeting in which Gracedale, and Gracedale alone, is discussed.

This most recent inspection, conducted by the state Department of Health, notes the following problems:

(1) Gracedale "failed to ensure a dignified dining experience" for several residents. One resident was attempting to feed herself but most of her food never made it to her mouth. "The resident was not able to eat much of her meal."

(2) Gracedale failed to provide "reasonable accommodation of resident needs." A resident with lower back trouble was unable to reach the call bell and ask for help, even though she required extensive physical assistance.

(3) Gracedale violated one resident's right to be free from physical restraints. A doctor had ordered that one resident with a history of falling be placed in something called a pelvic restraint, but also ordered that she be released from it every three hours and while eating. The restraint was kept in place.

(4) Gracedale failed to develop a comprehensive care plan for three residents. This appeared with several residents who were being treated with psychotropic drugs, with no plan in place to address the underlying condition.

(5) Gracedale failed to ensure proper hygiene for two residents. One had "jagged, long and dirty" nails and another was unwilling to brush his teeth.

(6) Gracedale failed to provide quality care to a resident whose arms had visible scratches and scabs. The facility had no documentation that even noted the condition.

(7) Gracedale failed to provide services to relieve pressure sores for a resident with pressure sores on his heels.

(8) Gracedale failed to ensure that two wheelchair-bound residents had call bells.

(9) Gracedale failed to label respiratory equipment for a resident who was receiving oxygen therapy.

(10) Several residents were basically locked into their beds with no evidence that an assessment was made to determine if this was needed.In addition, informed consent from the resident is needed for this measure and there is no evidence it was obtained.

Candida Affa Seeks Re-Election to Allentown City Council

Candida Affa, a former saloon owner, will announce her plans to seek a second term on Allentown City Council tonight, 6 pm, at Louie's Restaurant, 2071 31st St SW, Allentown, PA 18103. In her statement, she claims to have "led the charge" on legislation banning conversion therapy and decriminalizing marijuana. She is also responsible for lying about one of the City's most prominent developers, and after getting caught, refusing to apologize. More importantly, she voted against cuts to Mayor Ray O'Connell's 27% tax hike. She also fails to mention that she was one of disgraced former Mayor Edwin Pawlowski's most ardent supporters.

Now before announcing her candidacy, she somehow got her hands on the City employee mailing list, like Susan Wild did, and sent a mass email dunning them for contributions.

For just $2,500, you can sponsor a meatball.

Fed Ed  taught her well.

She represents what is wrong in Allentwn.

Joshua Siegel Running For Allentown City Council

Josh Siegel impressed many people when he ran for Allentown Mayor last year. I am pleased to learn he's seeking one of three City Council seats up for election this year. He will formally announce his candidacy on Saturday, January 26, at the East Side Youth Center.

According to his announcement, "The City of Allentown is at a crossroads, it faces both enormous challenges and significant opportunities. Joshua Siegel’s candidacy is about restoring a government that fights for the working people of the city and addresses issues critical to them such as crippling tax burdens, affordable housing, safe and prosperous communities, and family-sustaining jobs. Joshua Siegel will bring a bold and new strategic vision: the All-American City Vision, that makes Allentown a leader in progressive policy."

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

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

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

From her announcement, I can tell you the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morganelli's Top Assistant Running for DA

The field in the NorCo DA's race is beginning to get crowded. John Morganelli's top assistant, Terry Houck, has announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination. His news release is below. Without dispute, Terry would be an excellent DA. His opponent is Chief Public Defender Nuria DiLuzio, who would also be excellent.

Among Republicans, the only announced candidate so far is Tom Carroll, who practices almost exclusively in Montgomery County. He did work in the NorCo DA's office for two years, but suddenly resigned.

Who does Morganelli want to succeed him? Because he's running fir judge, he is unable to endorse anyone. 

From Terry Houck's campaign: Today, Northampton First Deputy District Attorney and lifelong Democrat Terry Houck announced his campaign for Northampton DA. Houck also proudly announced that his bid for District Attorney has already received the endorsement of Fraternal Order of Police Washington Lodge #17 (the FOP Lodge of Easton, PA).

In a letter, FOP Lodge #17 said “As a former Law Enforcement Officer [Terry Houck] knows the challenges that police officers face on a daily basis and the split second decisions that we are forced to make. [Terry] has promised to pursue the truth no matter where it may lead and for these reasons we are proud to support you in your upcoming campaign for Northampton County District Attorney.”

Houck has served alongside District Attorney John Morganelli as Northampton County’s First Deputy DA for 13 years. As First Deputy District Attorney, Houck oversees 20 attorneys, and all specialized units including the Child Abuse/Sex Offense, Violent Crimes, DUI, Grand Jury, Narcotics and Forfeiture, White Collar, Juvenile, Appellate and Domestic Violence Units.

Houck regularly prosecutes high profile and particularly sensitive cases, including violent crimes and homicides. He has spent over 32 years as a prosecutor in Bucks, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties. For more than 20 years he has specialized in violent crime prosecutions. In his role in Bucks County, he investigated and prosecuted hundreds of sensitive sex offenses and child abuse cases as the Chief Deputy District Attorney.

Prior to his career as a prosecutor, Houck was a decorated Officer of the Philadelphia Police Department, where he earned numerous commendations including the Chapel of the Four Chaplains Award for Bravery.

In a statement, Houck said

I’ve spent my career standing up for victims of crime, and ensuring that those who abused and victimized the vulnerable faced consequences for their actions. For 30 years I’ve seen my role  as a true advocate for victims when they are at their most vulnerable. I’ve stood up for the citizens of Northampton County for 13 years - and as District Attorney, I will keep up that fight.

I grew up one of nine kids in a row home in Philadelphia on a blue collar income. I became a Police Officer because I saw that having a fighting chance at the American Dream meant living in a safe community, free from victimization. When I passed the bar exam and became an attorney, I knew I wanted to spend my career fighting for justice for victims of crime and helping to keep our communities safe. I have spent three decades fulfilling that vision, and I will continue to fulfill it as our District Attorney.

The District Attorney has a duty to the people of Northampton - you put your faith in our office to advocate for you, for all of us, when our laws are broken. I’m not interested in using this role as a platform for higher office, or to move on to the private sector in a few years. Though the responsibilities of the District Attorney are many, the core mission is clear: to continue to fight for and give a voice to the innocent victims in Northampton County.

The FOP Washington Lodge #17 has endorsed my campaign because after my years of service to Northampton County, they have seen my commitment in action. They know the simple truth about me - I will not shy away from the truth, no matter where it leads us.”

About Terry Houck

Terry graduated from the Philadelphia Police Academy in 1977, holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice from LaSalle, an M.A. in Human Organization Science from Villanova University and his J.D. from Temple University.

Terry lives in Easton with his wife of 40 years, and has two daughters, a son-in-law and a granddaughter. Terry grew up with 4 brothers and 4 sisters, the child of William and Regina Houck in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he went to Cardinal Dougherty High School.

His career as a prosecutor started in 1986 as an ADA in Bucks County, where he earned a promotion to Chief Deputy District Attorney and headed the Child Abuse/Sex Offense Unit. In 2002, he joined the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office as a Chief Deputy District Attorney and the Chief of the Violent Crime Unit.

In 2006 he was hired by District Attorney John Morganelli as the first full-time First Deputy District Attorney, directly overseeing all specialized units. He has personally investigated and  successfully prosecuted some of the county’s most difficult and high profile cases in the last 13 years, a selection of which are listed below.

Prominent convictions include:  

• 2007 1st Degree murder convictions of Ali Davis, Demar Edwards and Olayiwola Hollist for the “execution-style” murders of three people in a home in Easton,

• 2008 1st degree murder conviction of Eugenio Torres for the beating death of a three-year old child.
• 2017 conviction of Daniel Clary for the Attempted Murder by of Pennsylvania State Troopers Seth Kelly and Ryan Seiple.

Bethlehem View Inn Assessed For Hotel Taxes

Bethlehem's View Inn and Suites, located just below the Route 22 and Nazareth Pike interchange, owes Northampton County $8,729.43 in hotel taxes. This determination is the result of an audit by Northampton County Controller Richard "Bucky" Szulborski and Auditor Kathy M Nesfeder. The audit covers calendar years 2016 and 2017.

Moravian College Names 732 Students to Dean's List

Bethlehem, Pa., January 22, 2019: Moravian College named 732 students to the Dean’s Honor List for the Fall 2018 semester. Students who carry three or more course units during the fall or spring term and attain a GPA for the term of 3.50 or higher are placed on the Dean’s Honor List. Below is a listing of students on the Dean’s Honor List for Fall 2018 by hometown, state, and country.

From Allentown: Vina-Andrea Aguirre, Ashtynn Allen, Kate Arner, Danial Boules, Willow Childs, Kirah Dreisbach, Stephen Ewald, Nadine Ewald, Adriana Facchiano,  Casey Faurl, Alfred Fustakgi, Tavion George, Nicholas Ghasab, Kelly Gonoude, Devon Haggerty, Jewel Haik, Fadi Hanna, Christopher Hawk, Youssef Helou, Elizabeth Hutnick, Salma Ibrahim, Jessica Ionescu, Megan Konrath, Madyson LeCause, Joseph Milano, Alyssa Pereira, Morgen Peters, Dayvon Reimert, Guadalupe Rivera,  Megan Shea, Christopher Shosted, Christopher Sorich,  Victoria Urquiza, Nick Zambelli.

From Bangor: Sabrina DePue, Kaytlyn Gordon, Junie Miller,  Erin Snyder, Jamie Wickett.

From Bath: Auria Enright, Alyssa Golomb, Brooke Granitz,  Elizabeth Horn, Olivia Lucas, Christian Pinnock, Madison Pursell, Laura Roberts, Meredith Roe,  Leauna Schaner, Will Stackhouse.

From Bethlehem: Cody Abrachinsky, Wyatt Abrachinsky, Derrick Achey, Brooke Adams, Rathath Alawad, Ahmed Alsakhairi, Amanda Andrews, Ankita Bassi, Lauren Bayda, Alvaro Belmonte, Rocco Beltrami, David Bertolotti, Hannah Bovard, Madison Capuano, Lauren Caronia, Jessica Chomo, Matt Corcoran, Sara Dahdoh, Allison Davis, David Donio, Emily Duddy, Thomas Durham, Reilly Eager, Megan Eltringham, Emilee Engler, Schuyler Evans, Lexi Fabey, Toshi Figueroa, Amy Flyte, Kaitlyn Fritz, Elena Galvano, Taylor Garza, Lauren Garza, Kelley Gavin, Ava Gilotti, Hannah Graybeal, Jordan Hawk, Erica Heaney, Morgan Hintze, Analisa Jeffries, Zoe Karvan, Emily Kessler, Ryan Kratzer, Eric Kressly, Ashley Kunsman, Jarred Kyra, Alyssa Lopez, Adrianna Mantz, Jacob Maskornick, Macy Miller, Alexis Mock, Chloe Mondok, Bradley Morgan, Connor Morro, Mikayla Morton, Calli Mosebach, Dana Neupauer, Shelby Nickerson, Andrew Nieves, Ellyce Nieves, Janessa Ortiz-Delgado, William Pelletiers, Ryan Pohl, Emily Prendeville, Somaya Rajhi, Victoria Ritter, Destiny Rivera, Eileen Rolwood, Nicole Rommens, Joseph Ryan, Jessica Salib, Philip Salib, Mary Sampson, Franklin Santos, Julius Sarkozy, Maja Sejdic, Bujar Shkreli, John Spirk, Gabrielle Stanley, Brianna Suvire, Jay Swint, Lexie Szaro, Andjela Todorovic, Rim Turk, Safa Turkdonmez, Lexi Vega, Connor Wagner, Morgan Weaver, Andrew Weidner, Paul Weierbach, Christine Wieder, TahLea Wright, Christine Yacoub, Shun Yang.

From Easton: Dalia Aguilar, Valeria Aguilar, Khola Ahmad, Diana Alejandro, Erin Anagnost, Alec Buttner, Korinne Corallo, Haillee Flank, Kayla Frindt, Alexis Gasparetti, Shannon Geist, Destiny George, Jewel Gilbert, Jorne Gilbert, Sean Haas, Anna Hambleton, Paige Haycock, Mackenzie Heitz, Kelsie Hilsenbeck, Matthew Hogan, Shane Houghton, Breana Imboden, Madison Johnson, Hannah Johnson, Bryan Kelly, Jack Kelly, Gianna Koehler, Shannon Koehler, Lucila Lampertti, Mitchell Lapka, Jordan Luciano, Moorea Marrello, Liana Marte, Michael Massimo, Akaylah Mease, Christopher Miceli, LorŽn Miller, Maria Morello, Hadeel Raboui, Emily Reiter, Mia Romfo, Meagan Ryer, Brooke Santy, Lauren Saylor, Christian Scheuermann II, Emily Stanilious, DeAnna Stocker, Abby Stocker, Lauren Strawn, Robert Taverner, Nicholas Wan, Charlene Weiner, Miranda Youngkin.

From Emmaus: Gabi Landi, Liz Mogollan, Robert Roman, Michael Shimer, Marne Wigfield.

From Lehighton: Maison Allen, Michael Patrick Mayernik, Jonathan Rupell, Zech Schweitzer.

From Macungie: Astrid Diaz Villegas, Nathan Hannis, Michael Kemeter, Avery Korner, Alyssa Machado, Salvatore Pagano, Megan Rander, Elizabeth Thomas, Joe Welsko, Bryn Wiragh.

From Nazareth: Sonal Arora, Michael Bassil, Kate Bisio, Olivia Boyce, Danielle Burke, Olivia Clearie, Sierra Dittmar, Bobby Falatyn, Behnam Farbod, Omeed Farbod, Hannah Frame, Lauren Freed, Jordan Gensits, Armando Gonzalez, Talea Gordon, Alex Haug, Emily Hendershot, Katrina Krause, Cathi Krock, Meghan Lazarchak, Robin Lerch, Austin Long, Alyssa Martinetti, Annie McCarthy, Evan Mengel, Angelina Miller, Michael Palmeri, James Prekopa, Nicholas Princiotta, Lauren Resh, Rachel Riley, Allison Schlegel, Bailey Shiffert, Daniel Stocker, Rebecca Stocker, Emily Szuter, Sara Tanzosh, Antonio Tavares, Brooke Thomas, Felicia Thomma, Hannah Witkowski.

From Northampton: Sara Cipriotti, Ian Csencsits, Hannah Flaven, Kennedy Jamicky, Tara Klementowicz, Holly Malitsch, Jared Miller, Kaitlyn Nemes, Autumn Paul, Brooke Paul, Naomi Rieth, Bethany Skrapits, Chris Snyder.

From Whitehall: Morgan Anderson, Courtney Brodeur, Jackson Buskirk, Alix Buskirk, Tyler Cyriax, Amanda Endy, Devon Fogel, Gabby Ghasb, Grace Helfrich, Emily Kiefer, Kayla Koehler, Lauren Kubic, Lyne Libale, Seth Rappaport, Shianne Reimer, Kelsey Reimer, Hilda Sarraj, Emily Snyder, Brandon Sokalsky, Madison Walker, Evan Yandrisovitz, Chanel Younes.

From Pennsylvania (Other): Jessica Abraham, Em Adam, Brandon Adams, Trey Adams, Antonia Aita, Justin Albert, Ben Anderson, Rachel Andrews, Ryan Angelini, Jon Anthony, Maddie Bachert, Isaac Bachert, Eyliena Baker, Lauren Balbierer, Bryanna Banes, Jason Barish, Woody Battle, Meghan Bauer, Megan Bauman, Aubrey Bealer, Jonah Beers, Olivia Bender, Rodney Berger, Steven Berger, Tyler Bergsma, Marc Bernal, Ashton Bevans, Boris Prince Bla, Vanessa Blose, William Brandes, Gabriella Brandon, Alec Brisbois, Timothy Brunstetter, Devon Bucks, Santina Burak, Caitlyn Byrne, Jennifer Calhoun, Ashlyn Cantrel, Andrew Carr, Nick Casazza, Cora Castor, Francesca Catino, Kylie Chichura, Maecy Chlebowski, Matthew Clapps, Bradley Clemson, Shelby Codd, Sydney Costenbader, Gabe Crouthamel, Nichele Cruz, Marissa Cusimano, Frank Dangello, Carly Danoski, Devon Dean, Megan Deaven, Sarah DeFranco, Morgan Delong, Julia DeMarco, Victoria Demuysere, Mikayla Dennis, Dominic DeRafelo, Bridgette  Devlin, Jason Dietrich, Sarah Donati, Samantha Doyen, Kasey Draude, Shae Duka, Jenevieve Eberly, Rachel Ernest, Jaime Ernst, Anna Esposito, Gabrielle Fatula, Michael Feeley, Morgan Fehnel, Alyssa Flannery, Samantha Flickinger, Ashlynn Forney, Corinne Frick, Alexandria Fries, Kaitlyn Furst, Allison Garman, Johnathon Geiger, Delia Geyer, Grace Gilbert, Ashley Gindle, Peter Gingrich Victoria Giorgi, Logan Gober, Austin Grace, Nicole Grayuski, Emily Groarke, Sarah Gross, Mariah Guarin, Michael Guarino, Dom Gurreri, Melanie Gutierrez, Brenna Haddad, George Haddad, Quinn Haldeman, Joe Hall, Kasey Hanlon, Sarah Harshaw, Bryan Harvey, Taylor Heffner, Sonya Hennet, Sophia Hochfeld, Cassie Hoffmann, Aaron Hofmann, Ty Holbert, Elmira Hoxha, Morgan Hresko, Mason Hudnall, Katie Hudson, Lexy Illing, Devon Irvin, Marie Johnson, Nathan Jordan, Kaela Kane, Victoria Kately, Hannah Katz, Gavin Kemery, Maci Kendrick, Kaitlyn Keppel, Cheyenne King, Riley Kirkpatrick, Adam Klatka, Matthew Kosack, Kenzie Koziel, Claudia Krautkremer, Kaitlin Kridlo, Vanessa Kuras, David Kusters, Jackie LaCava, Alyssa Lambert, Jennifer Leh, Austin Lewis, Alyssa Limbaugh, Anna Litofsky, Raquel Lopez De Boer, Callista Lutz, Kelsie Lynn, Tatianna Machado, Livia Mackes, Renee Mapa, Emma Marion, Hannah Maurer, Thaise McCauley, Jessica McCormick, Riley McHugh, Jillian McLuhan, Rachel Mikols, Emma Miller, Cassandra Miller, Jessica Minnichbach, Emily Mittl, Layne Morgan, Brendan Morgans, Marina Neslen, Natalie Novotni, Michaella Ohl, Rylee Pahls, Marley Palmere, Nicole Peluso, Emily Pettinato, Josephine Pizzino, Brett Poling, Matt Poloway, Jen Pugliese, Kristin Rader, Charlotte Reid, Morgan Reiner, Lexi Reinold, Emily Renner, Donald Reynolds, Nathaniel Rhoads, Abigail Rick, Sarah Riegel, Joe Rochelle, Shannon Rock, Noah Rosenthal, Haley Rudofker, Hunter Runge, Katelyn Ruth, Michaela Ryan, Abdulaziz Sahli, Soriana Salloum, Melissa Salvadeo, Taylor Sanders, Emily Sangirardi, Kyle Schaedler, Isaac Schefer, Gabbie Scherff, Olivia Schlofer, Kiersten Schmall, Autumn Schray, Derek Scott, Natalie Sedorovitz, Maddy Shaneberger, Miranda Shattah, Matthew Shields, Kevin Shields, Sophia Skiffington, Natalie Stabilito, Sophia Starner, Lauren Steinert, Andrew Stires, Paige Stitzel, Tanner Stokes, Nicholas Stout, Lindsey Strohl, Ashley Strouphauer, Abby Strouse, Adam Strouse, Molly Talarico, Christian Tassinari, Elise Tomaszewski, Paige Towich, Amy Trout, Sean Twomey, Brooke Vennie Ashley Vesdel, Erica Vibert, Nick Vinansky, Morgan Wagner, Elizabeth Ward, Damian Wasieczko, Tessa Weber, Matthew Weigand, Colby Werkheiser, Kayla Werner, Anita Werner, Camaryn Wheeler, Ben Wilder, Alessandra Wilson, Shon Wilson, Cayden Wisner, Haley Wrazien, Cody Yarnall, Crystal Yautz, Sara Yitzchaki, Hailee Yoder, Kayla Yoege, Mairead Young, Devan Young, Erika Zarate.

From New Jersey:  Austin Adams, Elizabeth Rose Allen, Chrissy Anselmo, Jamie Bader, Madeleine Baker, Carlos Barnes, Erin Barry, Nadia Belverio, Amanda Bencivenga, Zach Benjamin, Kayleigh Bennett, Elizabeth Biava, Elizabeth Bill, Emily Bolger, Cassandra Bower, Oonagh Breen, Karlie Brogan, Alexa Brown, Norah Bruther, Emily Buonocore, Julian Calv, Alexa Canella, Mattison Casolaro, Megan Chesney, Michelle Ciliberto, Matthew Clayton, Cathryn Cole, Matt Comini, Alexis Cruz, Jacqueline D'Auria, Will Dadouris, Julia Defeo, Danielle DeFillippo, Michael Del Cioppo, Mae Dienes, John Dugan, Olivia Emposimato, Fallon Endler, Rachel Farmer, Jacob Feenstra, Cassidy Fernandez, Jillian Ferrara, Kayleigh Ficarra, Sydney Freay, Ryan Frehill, Conor Frehill, Shannon Gallo, Brianna Gammel, John Gleason, Richie Glennon, Jamie Golubinski, Raechel Gonzalez, Sarah Gross, Ryan Harper, Kaitlyn Harth, Courtney Heist, Kayla Herr, Alexa Hicks, Colby Hillman, Marlee Hornbaker, Beth Hrehovcik, Ashley Hutchinson, Alex Izzo, Audrey Janosko, Damian Katarsky, Victoria Kauffman, John Kerrison, Brianna Keyes, Jennifer Khawam, Marissa Kibler, Paige Kovacs, Megan Krozser, Courtney Kunzman, Brooke Kusmider, Liz Kyle-LaBell, Stephen Lazicki, Julia Lepore, Patrick Manturi, Austin Markowski, Kelly Martin, Shane Mastro, Clare Mastronardi, Kathleen Mayer, Stephen McDonough, Regina McElroy, Caitlynne Meola, Angelica Merone, Brianna Milstrey, Taylor Moskal, Shannon Mulvihill, Brianna Myers, Anthony Nagy, Katelyn Nardi, Gabriella Nasta, Courtney Nealon, Christine Neu, Joseph Nicolaro, Michael O'Hagan, Alec Oriolo, Eirean Perst, Luke Peterson, Danielle Petrovic, Jordyne Pfister, Jillian Picciuto, Brielle Popolla, Dylan Purdy, Janelle Pyar, Taylor Rasely, Kate Rennar, Cameron Reppert, Gianna Rettino, Baru Roberson-Hornsby, Kaitlyn Roberto, Gabby Roe, Billy Roethke, John Sabo, Kristina Sadler, Sonia Safarpour, Erika Salus, Amari Schooler, Rachel Shafer, Stephanie Sharp, Brandon Sisk, Samantha Smolinsky, Joseph Solis, Emily Sporer, Amanda Springer, Tia Steinhardt, Melissa Strom, Janessa Ternosky, Erin Tiger, Danielle Tomko, Ross Traphagen, Alex Tursi, Alyssa Ullmann, Abigail Vallaster, Daria Van Doren, Madison Van Duzer, Skylar Vaughan, Shannon Wabeke, Morgan Walters, Amanda Whitworth, Andi Wilkinson, Kimberly Wolf, Mark Wolinski, Amye Zalesky, Nicole Zangara, Britt Zwiebel.

From other states: Albra Alabry (VA), Rachael Backus (NY), Katie Boyle (MD), Thomas Brim (CT), Morgan Brown (NH), Jenny Buhler (NY), Christian Burda (NY), Kristen Cassidy (NY), Shilo Coccodrilli (FL), Rachel Cupp (CT), Lyric DeSimone (ME), Kathryn Dewitt (NY), Sarah Emmanuel (CO), Amanda Fish (NY), Heather Gallant (MA), Mike Gallo (NC), Maura Griesser (MD), Michaela Harding (MD), Connor Hull (NY), Bettyjo LaBare (OR), Devyn Lapp (NY), Clay Lewis (NY), Matthew Mittl (MD), Valerie Monaco (NY), Olivia Moore (NH), Mark Morykan (NY), Timothy Murphy (ME), Kylie Norwood (MD), Caitlin O'Hanley (MA), Savanna Paxton (NY), Sarah Penna (MA), Jessica Pisano (NY), Carley Sheetz (TX), Connor Tiernan (RI), Isaac Weston (CT).

International: Dina Alnahari (Saudi Arabia), Tevo'n Campbell (South Africa), Lara  Slabber (South Africa), Corentin Bauchet (France), Maria Moreno (Ecuador), Nischal Piya (Nepal), Benitta Ngobeni (South Africa).

Blogger's Note: I will be happy to post high school and college honor rolls and dean's lists. Please send too BOHare5948@aol.com

Bethlehem Tp Ponders Refinancing $10 Million in Debt

At their Jan 21 meeting, Bethlehem Township Commissioners heard a presentation from financial consulting firm PFM on a way to ease the debt service currently paid on four bank loans. Interest on three of these notes has or will shortly switch from fixed to variable rate. This has already cost the Township $75,000 in interest. PFM wants to assist the township in seeking out a lender who is willing to refinance the loans or consider a bond issue.

With a bank loan refinancing this debt, PFM estimates it can save the Township $256,000. With a bond issue, the savings is estimated at $382,000. If the Township authorizes PFM to proceed by late January, it estimates it can have a new loan in place within 90 days.

Commissioners took no action, but Malissa Davis said she always understand that loans in excess of $10 million should be by bond issue. 

PFM already serves a number of local municipalities and school districts. These include Allentown, Bethlehem, Northampton County and Allentown School District and Bethlehem Area School District. 

Who Is Amazing Grace?

I'll tell you on Wednesday.

Professional Photographer Claims Copyright Infringement By Morning Call

Theo Anderson is a highly regarded professional photographer. He has the rare gift of being able to capture more than a physical image. Of Allentown origin, he is perhaps best known around here for his photo history of the construction of the PPL Arena. The Butz family (photography lovers, especially son Lee) gave him extraordinary access to the construction site. According to an Anderson Facebook post, The Morning Call recently used some of his work without permission. Here's what he says, minus the picture:

The Morning Call has used a photograph of mine without my permission in the current edition of The Morning Call and online.

The Morning Call and the writers Jon Harris and Nicole Radzievich are responsible for this ethical travesty. The photo appears on page 6 of an article about transforming #2 machine shop into a water park. I would not have permitted this use.

Mr. Harris,

I was quite surprised when my iconic photograph #2 machine shop was used in the Sunday edition of the Morning Call, January 20, 2019. After investigation I also found that it was used online in a gallery under the Lehigh Valley Business Cycle article, “Sand’s Bethlehem casino buyer pitches $190 million investment, second hotel on Steel Land.”

You and the The Morning Call have debased my work and reputation. This photograph is paramount to my career. Prints are in the collections of the Museum of Fine Art Houston, The Allentown Art Museum, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Lehigh University, Michigan State University and numerous private collections. It is deemed by many significant curators to be the important modern photograph taken at that site.

I gave no permission for the use. The copyright is registered in my name. I have no idea the source of the photograph but you certainly had a moral obligation to contact me regarding it’s [sic] use.

Please note I could not find Ms. Radzievich’s as the email the link directed me to you. I have included editorial staff in this email.

You and the paper have turned perhaps the most iconic and collected work of my career into rubbish. You did this with clear disregard of copyright.

You should be ashamed of yourself. This has damaged my reputation and the value of my work.

The record needs to be set straight and I need to be compensated for this illegal act on your part and the part of The Morning Call.

Sincerely,

Theo Anderson