Trump's Assault on Democracy

 

Photo Credit : Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Regular readers of this blog know I'm no fan of Lehigh Valley Congress member Susan Wild. But I'm outraged to see how my elected Representative was treated by a mob incited by Donald Trump to mount a coup against our elected representatives in Congress yesterday, This is nothing short of sedition, and those involved must be prosecuted. 

One of them could include NorCo GOP Chair Gloria Lee Snover. In a chilling telephone interview, she told WLVR's Brad Klein, "Don't listen to the fake news, the fake media. ... The violence was small. It was isolated. ... Was it two people, I heard?"

Klein: "No, I think it's clear from the pictures that there are hundreds of protesters inside the capital building."

Snover: "Okay. I own as much of the capital building as VP Mike Pence does.

Klein: "Although probably storming the doors and forcing ...."

Snover: "Yeah, storming, but I'm just saying we have a right to be in the building." 

No, Lee, you don't have the right to barge onto the Senate or House floor and interfere with the people's business. And the Vice President, who presides over the Senate, has a duty to be there when called. 

Snover went on to say, "We want a new Republican party. We're never going back to the old Republican party. Never. We want a new party, a patriot party, out with the old Republicans." 

She added she refuses to accept the election results. "Donald Trump did not concede and will never concede. And we didn't lose. We won. "

In contrast to Snover, NorCo Exec Lamont McClure condemned the sedition. 

"The United States of America is the greatest experiment in self-government in human history. Nothing the domestic enemies of the nation did today changes that. Please join me in imploring all of our fellow citizens who are not domestic enemies of America to use these deplorable acts as impetus to recommit to those most magnificent of promises made in Philadelphia in 1787."

“ 'We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.' ”

Willie Reynolds Running for Bethlehem Mayor

Blogger's Note: Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donhez is finishing his second term as Mayor this year. He is term-limited and is unable to seek a third term in office.I am aware of several candidates who have expressed interest, but the first to announce is Bethlehem City Council member J. William "Willie" Reynolds. Below is his campaign's announcement.

BETHLEHEM, PA - City Councilman J. William Reynolds will kick off his campaign to be the next Mayor of Bethlehem at 4 PM on Wednesday January 6th with an announcement and speech on his vision for the future of the city. The announcement and follow-up question and answer session can be viewed on Facebook Live (www.facebook.com/jwilliamreynoldsbethlehem). The videos will be available after the announcement at www.jwilliamreynolds.org. 

“Bethlehem has always been a wonderful place to live but it is time for us to become something more. We need a clear vision for the future of our city that builds on our strengths and reimagines what our community can be. ” Reynolds said. 

During his time on City Council, Councilman Reynolds has - 

● Supported economic development and job creating initiatives that have led to Bethlehem’s strongest public and private financial position in decades. 

● Proposed and led the creation of Bethlehem’s first climate action plan. 

● Proposed and created Northside 2027 – a unique partnership and revitalization strategy for our neighborhoods involving citizens, small businesses, the Bethlehem Area School District, and Moravian College. 

● Created Bethlehem’s first open data effort to improve governmental transparency and access to public data in an effort to spur innovation and entrepreneurship. At his announcement, Reynolds will lay out his vision for the future of Bethlehem including attracting further increased private economic investment, prioritizing neighborhood revitalization and sustainability, implementation of the city’s climate action plan, and building a fair and equitable city. 

For more information on his campaign, please visit www.jwilliamreynolds.org

Lehigh County Solicitor Running For Judge

 

Blogger's Note: Another outstanding judicial candidate has sent an announcement prepared by his campaign,, which you can read below.

Tom Caffrey, the Lehigh County Solicitor, is seeking to fill one of the three judicial vacancies in Lehigh County. 

Caffrey, 59, was born and raised in Allentown’s working-class First Ward. After graduating from Allentown Central Catholic High School, the Pennsylvania State University, and the Dickinson School of Law, Caffrey started his legal career as an assistant solicitor in the Lehigh County Department of Law. 

In 1991, Caffrey was appointed to serve as the full-time Lehigh County Juvenile Master. He conducted delinquency hearings related to criminal conduct by juveniles and dependency hearings related to issues of parental neglect and child abuse, and earned a reputation for being tough but fair. Caffrey not only gained valuable judicial experience, but also significant insight into the underlying issues—poverty, parental neglect, drug abuse, and mental illness—that often lead to ongoing involvement in the criminal justice system. 

In 1998, Caffrey was appointed to serve as a prosecutor in the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office. He prosecuted defendants charged with felony criminal offenses such as burglary, aggravated assault, and robbery, and tried many of these cases to verdict. 

From 2001 through 2004, Caffrey headed the Children and Youth Services Legal Unit. Caffrey returned to the Department of Law in 2004, and litigated the County’s most significant federal civil rights cases, often representing the County’s corrections officers and law enforcement personnel. 

In May 2020, Caffrey was elevated to serve as the Lehigh County Solicitor. He now heads the Department of Law, which consists of ten attorneys, two paralegals, and the Right-to-Know Officer, and advises County officials on the wide array of legal matters impacting County government and its residents. 

Caffrey has also proudly worked in several capacities for the City of Allentown. He is currently the solicitor to the Police and Fire Civil Service Board, and in the past served as special solicitor to the Police Pension Board in disability pension matters and special solicitor to City Council in police officer termination cases. He also represented the City’s police officers in federal civil rights litigation. 

In his private practice, Caffrey has handled a wide variety of legal matters while working for local law firms and operating his own law practice, including family law, employment, criminal defense, land use and zoning, real estate, and wills and estates, and has significant civil litigation 2 experience. He currently serves as the solicitor to the zoning hearing boards in Moore, Lehigh and Plainfield Townships and Hellertown Borough. 

When asked why he is seeking a seat on the Lehigh County bench, Caffrey said, “I have dedicated my career to serving the people of Lehigh County, and I believe that I am well qualified to serve as a common pleas judge. I have valuable experience as a judicial official and more than 34 years of experience in both civil and criminal law. I have the academic ability and experience to handle complex legal matters, but also the common sense required to understand and deal with the wide variety of issues and problems that come before a common pleas judge on a daily basis. I will work hard, maintain an open mind, and treat all those who come before me fairly and with respect.” 

Caffrey has worked as an adjunct professor of sociology/criminal justice for Moravian College and served as a guest lecturer on federal civil rights and juvenile justice issues. Caffrey is married to Bobbi Jo Caffrey, who works as an optician for Dr. Binae Karpo. They live in Whitehall and are members of the Immaculate Conception Church in Allentown. Caffrey has three adult daughters, Kate, Kristen, and Lauren Angela, and an adult step-son, Scott. 

Caffrey has served as a volunteer at the Lehigh Valley Hospital and is a member of the Whitehall Area Rotary Club. 

Caffrey, a Republican, will cross file to appear on both parties’ ballots.

Lehigh County Comm'rs Take BiPartisan Approach

Geoff Brace

Like Northampton, Lehigh County's governing body, called the Board of Commissioners, reorganized on Monday. They elected Geoff Brace as Chair and Marc Grammes as Vice Chair. They manged to do two things in their brief reorganization that eluded Northampton.  

First, Lehigh took a bipartisan approach, electing a Democrat (Brace) and Republican (Grammes) as their leaders. Here's how Brace explains it: "For six of the 7 years I've served on the Board, I've served in the minority party, sometimes being treated as such. This will not be my approach in serving you. The work we have is too important. The people we serve are counting on us." He added that he'd like to see us rebuild "our region in a way that reflects our shared values, where Liberty and Justice for All are more than the concluding part of the pledge we say at the beginning of our meetings."

John Cusick, an experienced and knowledgeable Council member, was overlooked in favor of someone who has alienated both the courts and District Attorney. This is solely because he belongs to the wrong party. 

Second, Brace abstained from voting for himself, and was clear to note his abstention both before and after the vote. In contrast, Lori Vargo-Heffner was eager to vote for herself in what is at least a technical violation of the state Ethics Act. In 2016, when John Cusick attempted to vote for himself as Council President, then Solicitor Phil Lauer advised he should abstain or waive the extra pay. Cusick opted to waive the rather modest $500 extra paid to a Council President.   The state ethics commission has in the past ordered a borough council member who voted for himself as President to make a $500 payment to the borough even though his violation was unintentional. 

There is one area in which Northampton County seems better. Both meetings were virtual. Believe it or not, Northampton appears to have worked out most of the bugs to their zoom meetings. Lehigh still has work to do. 

Long-time Prosecutor Seeks Lehigh County Judgeship

Patricia Fuentes Mulqueen

There are three judicial vacancies to be filled this year in Lehigh County. Patricia Fuentes Mulqueen, a long-time and well-respected prosecutor with two decades of experience in both Northampton and Lehigh County, has announced her candidacy for one of these openings. 

“As a full-time Assistant District Attorney for the last 16 years – including nine years as Chief of Violent Crimes – I have worked hard to provide victims of crime and their families with a strong voice to ensure they receive the justice they deserve,” she said. “I will be a tough, but fair, judge who follows the law to protect Lehigh County residents while ensuring everyone who comes before me will be heard and treated with dignity and respect.” 

Mulqueen met her husband, Matthew, while attending DeSales University. Because her husband was in the military, she had to take college courses in Georgia, South Korea, New York and Hawaii. After obtaining her undergrad degree, she earned her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 1998, and she was admitted to practice law that year in Arizona. 

Though she's a prosecutor now, she initially worked as a public defender. 

Mulqueen, her husband and their three children retuirned to the Lehigh Valley in 2004. She was initially hired as a prosecutor by Lehigh County DA Jim Martin, but former Northampton County DA John Morganelli stole her 13 years ago. She has stared down murderers, kidnappers, drug dealers and violent criminals in qa career in which she has been an advocate primarily for doing the right thing, 

Though she's a Republican, she's no blue blood. She's youngest of ten children, family is especially important to Patricia. Her father worked as a dishwasher, caretaker and cook to provide for his family. He eventually became a chef. 

He impressed fiscal restraint and a work ethic on his daughter. “I understand that county taxpayers want a court that is mindful of their hard-earned tax dollars, especially during the pandemic when many are struggling. I am committed to running an efficient and effective courtroom that helps control costs and avoids frustrating delays,”

My only complaint about Pat Mulqueen, and one that I've voiced to her several times, is that I wished she lived here. Lehigh County is fortunate to have such an outstanding person. 

Prendeville Seeks Re-Election in Hanover Tp (NC)

Mike Prendeville, Vice Chair of the Hanover Township-Northampton County Board of Supervisors is seeking a second term. "I have fought to keep the high level of services and the great quality of life we enjoy in Hanover, while successfully working to oppose any tax increases. In addition through prudent fiscal management we have kept Hanover debt free. This is a record few communities can equal.”, said Prendeville.

Prendeville was employed with D&B, Inc. (Dun & Bradstreet) for 27+ years and UBM Global Trade for 5 years. 

His wife Dawn is an RN at Good Shepard Rehabilitation Hospital. They have three children, a daughter and two sons. Emily is a senior at Moravian College’s nursing program. Alexander is an accountant at St. Lukes Hospital. Michael is a senior at Bethlehem Catholic High School and a volunteer for the Hanover Township Ambulance Corps.

Prendeville's key goals if re-elected are to advocate for responsible development that does not add more commercial trucks to Hanover’s already clogged roads; provide strong support for the Colonial Regional Police’s Commercial Truck Enforcement Unit; and continue providing superior public safety to the residents and business community.

In addition to his business experience, Prendeville has a BA in Business Management, Washington College, an MBA in Business Management from DeSales University and has a Certification in National Incident Management System (FEMA-NIMS) - ICS-100, IS-700.

NorCo Council Elects Lori Vargo-Heffner as President

Lori Vargo-Heffner

By an 8-1 margin, Northampton County Council voted for Lori-Vargo-Heffner as Council President during a 12-minute meeting yesterday afternoon.  Council member John Cuisick cast his vote for Peg Ferraro, but she said it would be "impossible" for her to serve. 

Kevin Lott nominated Vargo-Heffner "with pleasure and honor," and Kerry Myers seconded. 

Vargo-Heffner voted for herself. This technically violates the state Ethics Act because a Council President is paid more than other Council members and thus she had a financial interest. It is likely a de minimis violation because the increased salary is small.  

Council voted unanimously for Bill McGee as Council VP and for Chris Spadoni as Council Solicitor. 

Cusick suggested it's time for Council to return to in-person meetings, noting that county employees must report every day. 

PoliticsPA: NorCo is Pa.'s Bellwether County

PoliticsPa has declared Northampton County as the state's bellwether County. It is the only county in the state to pick the winner in both the presidential race as well as three state row offices up for grabs. 

At one time NorCo was a reliably blue county. But as I noted yesterday, new GOP registrations since 2016 outpace Democratic gains by a 3 to 1 margin.  

NorCo Council Expected to Elect Vargo-Heffner Prez

Though the Council Clerk has more important things to do than post the actual time, Northampton County Council will reorganize today at 4:30 pm to select its leaders for 2021. When he was elected last year, Council President Ron Heckman said he would step down this year. Council VP Lori Vargo-Heffner is  telling people it's "my turn." Vargo-Heffner apparently thinks that a year as Council President will raise her visibility and result in her re-election this year. I agree that it will increase her name recognition. But if her first three years on Council are any indication, it will be in a bad way. Not only will she hurt herself, she will also damage other Democrats (Tara Zrinski and Bill McGee) presumably seeking re-election in an at-large race for five seats.  If Council elects her, as I believe they will, they will kick off 2021 with a mistake, both politically and in governing, 

The Political Background

This year should be bad for Democrats in county races. Though Northampton has historically been a blue county, that dominance is reversing. In 2016, Trump won the county by 5,464 votes. At that time, there were 98,929 Democrats, 73,638 Republicans and 39,026 others for a grand total of 211,593 registered voters. Though Trump lost the county by a scant 1,233 votes in November, the erosion of the Democratic party continues. As of December 28, there were 102,227 Democrats, 81,432 Republicans and 43,691 others. Democrats have increased their numbers by 3 per cent, while Republicans have increased strength by 9.5 percent. A blue county has become purple. 

What's worse for county Democrats is that their strength is concentrated in the urban centers of the county. My analysis of what were then still unofficial results demonstrates that Biden was popular in Bethlehem, Easton and in the more urban townships and boroughs. In the more rural areas, Trump hammered Biden.  

This is bad news for county candidates in an at-large election. Turnout will be much lower in this year's municipal races than they are in Presidential contests. It is possible that the advent of no-excuse mail-in ballots and early voting could spark an increase in turnout, but that seems unlikely in Bethlehem and Easton. In those cities, the election will for all practical purposes be over in the primary. There is no Mayoral race in Easton, and it is doubtful that a Republican will run in the race to succeed Mayor Bob Donchez. This depressed turnout in the urban core and give Republicans an edge throughout the rest of the county. 

To make matters worse, Republicans are angry. I still see Trump signs and flags everywhere. Less than half think Biden won the race. In countywide races, you can expect to see Democrats pay the price. 

A Democratic Council President who understands the tenuous grasp her party has on control might overcome these headwinds. Lori Vargo-Heffner has demonstrated, however, that she is ignorant of both politics and, more importantly, governing. 

Heffner's Mistakes

In a county council whose members have hardly distinguished themselves in meeting attendance, Vargo-Heffner has been a workhorse. That's half the battle. But only half. Everywhere else, she's been a failure. Basically, she's just too mean.

Here is an incomplete list of examples:

1) In her first year on Council, she sabotaged the nomination of an Allentown Diocesan school official to appointment as an unpaid volunteer to the Drug and Alcohol Board. Heffner hinted that Dr. Brooke Tesche, now the Chancellor of Education with the Diocese of Allentown, might use her role to recruit students to a new Catholic high school for children who are drug or alcohol dependent. She even hinted that Dr. Tesche might be lining her pockets. 

That's ridiculous. 

We all know Catholic schools only recruit athletes. Heffner raised enough of a stink that Dr. Tesche's nomination was killed.

2) Perhaps you think that Heffner was concerned about the separation of church and state. Nope. Heffner was the biggest cheerleader on Council for a $20,000 church steeple grant, described by congregants at a public hearing as a "beacon of hope and faith." You can't get much more religious than that. Heffner, who was on the selection committee, tried all kinds of arguments. She tried arguing that hotel taxes aren't really public funds. She even argued that denying this grant would be discrimination. Fortunately, the grant was tabled.

3) She's awfully picayune. Get this. She actually objected to the minutes of a General Purpose Authority meeting because the references to her failed to hyphenate her last names.

4) When Court Administrator Jermaine Greene sought Council's approval for a Juvenile Justice Center Director of Treatment, she mounted all kinds of roadblocks. She imperiously told a black man who brought a physician and a psychologist that she did not like his tone. Judge Stephen Baratta eventually put her complaints to bed, but she never apologized for her unprofessional behavior.

5)When a negative survey about Gracedale (based on an inspection before Lamont McClure became Executive) was released, Heffner attempted to downplay it. McClure was "very disappointed," and Council members reacted with appropriate outrage. Not Heffner. "Comparatively, it was good," she said. "Let's not just focus on the deficiencies."

6) She's the driving force behind an expensive referendum this Spring, in which you the voter will be called upon to change the names of Council members to Commissioners. This is just pure ego. Voters should say No to the nonsensical name change as well as Vargo-Heffner.

7) She attempted to defund DA Terry Houck's request for funding at the Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center. "I'm not telling you how to fight crime," she snarked to Houck. "I'm not trying to be bat girl." But by defunding his request to a level he deemed unsafe, she was telling him not to bother fighting crime at all.

8) Most recently, she received a Covid-19 vaccine. Though she's far from the front lines and is no first responder, she plastered pictures of herself all over Facebook, virtue signaling.  This is a slap across the face of real first responders, many of whom happen to be county employees.

Unlike most Council members, she has failed to learn from her mistakes. She keeps making them and blocks people like myself, when I point them out. Now she will ensure that the entire Council makes mistakes, which will hurt Democrats seeking re-election. 

The smartest thing Democrats could do right now is use their 6-3 majority to elect John Cusick as Council President. Cusick is a Republican but takes a fairly bipartisan approach to governing. He is clearly the most fit person to lead Council. If they are interested in both good government and good politics, he is their best bet.  

If You Want to Avoid Covid, Move Into a Nursing Home

Believe it or not, seniors who live in nursing homes are now more likely to survive a bout with Covid-19 than those of us at home. Here's the latest from numbers cruncher Steve Thode:

There were 4,865 new deaths reported between December and December 31 (the report was a day early due to the New Year's Day holiday). That's more than 30% of all deaths since the pandemic began. Deaths continue to be overwhelmingly among the elderly as there were as many new deaths among those over the age of 105 as there were among those under the age of 30. Pennsylvanians in their 80s accounted for more than a third of all new deaths.

Those over age 60 accounted for 94.8% of the new deaths between December 5 and December 31 (4,612 new deaths out of 4,865 total new deaths). That percentage continues to increase. Meanwhile, the percentage of new deaths among those under the age of 60 continues to decline (only 253 out of 4,865 new deaths, or, 5.2%).

The number of new deaths among the elderly not in Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) was substantially greater than the number of new deaths among the elderly who were in LTCFs. There were a total of 1,972 LTCF resident deaths between December 5 and December 31. Even if every one of those LTCF deaths was among residents over the age of 60 (the state does not break down LTCF deaths by age), they would account for less than 43% of all new deaths among Pennsylvanians over the age of 60.

Allentown Mayoral Field is Thinning

The meeting between Allentown businessman Nat Hyman and Mayor Ray O'Connell appears to have paid off. According to several informed sources, the field is thinning. 

Council member Joshua Siegel, an announced candidate, is apparently dropping out and will support O'Connell. The same is true of City DCED Director Leonard Lightner and former City Council President Roger MacLean. Julio Guridy is also under pressure not to run.  

No-Symptom Covid-19 Tests This Week at Coca Cola Park

From Lehigh County - The Pennsylvania Department of Health has extended a contract with AMI to provide Lehigh County with a COVID-19 testing site for five days. Beginning Monday, January 4th, 2021, Lehigh County, in conjunction with the Allentown Health Bureau, will be hosting a drive-thru COVID-19 testing site in order to help contain the rapid increase of COVID-19 cases in the area. The initiative is provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health as they designate regional COVID-19 testing sites throughout the Commonwealth.

The pop-up clinics will be accessible to all residents and will be held at Coca-Cola Park located at 1050 IronPigs Way, Allentown, PA. Testing will be available daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM starting Monday, January 4 through Friday, January 8. Residents are asked to enter Coca-Cola Park from American Parkway, using the left two lanes and following the signs for the PA Department of Health testing site. Please be alert and follow traffic patterns. Be prepared to wait in line for clinics upon arrival.

Up to 450 patients can be tested per day. Mid-nasal passage swab PCR tests will be performed. Testing is on a first-come, first-serve basis and is completely free to all patients. Patients must be ages three and older and are not required to show symptoms of COVID-19 in order to be tested. No appointment is necessary. Patients are encouraged to bring a photo-ID or insurance card. Registration will also be completed on-site. The turnaround time for testing results is two to seven days after testing.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health advises that individuals who are tested should self-quarantine while they await test results. Individuals who live with other people should self-quarantine in a private room and use a private bathroom if possible. Others living in the home with the individual awaiting test results should also stay at home.

For more information regarding the clinics, please contact the Lehigh County Office of Emergency Management at 610-782-4600.

NorCo Honors 14 Seniors

The list is long and distinguished. I was omitted because county officials likely think I'm still in my 20s. Also, this might shock you, but some people have a very low opinion of bottom-feeding bloggers. 

Terry Andrews Northampton Borough — Terry Andrews was instrumental in applying for a grant for the Northampton County Department of Community and Economic Development Center that funded the reconstruction of several restrooms at the Northampton Senior Center. He has also worked on projects that promote safety and the wellbeing of senior citizens. Now the Department is looking at other Senior Centers to make sure they are meeting the needs that Terry championed.

Ann Brodhead Easton — For the last eight years Ann Brodhead has volunteered her time and resources to teaching crocheting and knitting to the residents of Manor Care in Palmer Township. She has now increased her skills to include loom knitting. As a member of the Easton Weed & Seed Project, Ann assisted in the preparation and serving of lunch at Centennial Park. In past years, she ran a Bible Class, arts and crafts and choir for 24 youngsters at the Rose of Sharon Legacy Church in the West Ward in Easton.

Raymond Campbell Bethlehem— After college he enlisted in the Army National Guard and served during the Vietnam War in Communications. Raymond has volunteered in many ways including: Saucon Valley Little League Coach, worked on High School Play Sets, and was an Assistant Boy Scout Leader. He is very involved with church events such as Sunday School, Consistory and Spiritual Council, Ushers Team, Soup Kitchen, and Fix-it man. He volunteers at the Boutique at the Rink and is very involved with the Saucon Valley Lions Club holding many offices. He has chaired the Lions Club Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show for over 30 years and has been the recipient of the Saucon Valley Lion of the Year Award and the Melvin Jones award. Raymond is also a Miller Keystone Blood Donor.

Gail DeWitt Bangor — Gail serves as coordinator of her church fall and spring Rummage Sale. In that capacity she oversees the collecting and sorting of used items, books and clothing for the sale. She also enlists volunteers to help with the sales and to provide refreshments. Gail continues the tradition of reaching out to area organizations inviting them to choose items for families in need in the area. At the end of each sale, all usable items are donated to the local Salvation Army. Gail and her clothing helpers set aside any gowns and gently used evening dresses which are then donated to My Sisters Closet in Bethlehem for their annual prom dress event. Gail then helps with that event.

Elsie Frey Nazareth — Elsie Frey has been involved with many clubs and committees in her community: she has volunteered for Meals on Wheels for many years, helped at the local Food Bank, volunteered at her church and is currently meeting with Lafayette College students who are receiving credit for their time spent with Elsie. She loves to attend Nazareth Girl’s basketball games and a few years ago, she was asked to throw out the first pitch at an Iron Pigs game. Elsie just turned 100 years this past March and exemplifies a life well-lived and well deserving of this award.

Ellen Knecht Wind Gap — Ellen Knecht has been volunteering for over 50 years and at age 78 is still volunteering for the Pen Argyl Salvation Army. She is currently helping at the food bank at a local church in the Slate Belt area. She has an “I want to help others attitude.” She has volunteered for the Wind Gap Ambulance as an EMT and later for the Plainfield Ambulance Corp working day or night as needed.

Alan Lynch Mt. Bethel — Mr. Lynch is a Deacon and a former Trustee of Portland Baptist Church. Alan is a Veteran having served in the Army for three years. He has been a member of the Portland Volunteer Fire Department for over 22 years serving as its President, Vice-President and Secretary over the years. Alan is a Merit Badge Counselor for the Portland Boy Scouts. He exhibits his faith in his devotion to his family, friends, and community.

John Mauser Lower Mt. Bethel — John Mauser’s volunteer leadership is in the establishment of open space and preservation of those areas that have fallen into disrepair. He is a member of the Martins Jacoby Watershed Association and has led community involvement in securing additional open space along Martin’s Creek. He has worked numerous hours with The Boy & Girl Scouts of the area in teaching the importance of the preservation of wildlife habitats and the maintenance of our local trails and waterways. He is a founding member and Chairman of the Friends of Minsi Lake, which raised $150,000 to create the largest fish habitats in the County at Minsi Lake.

Margery Metzger Bethlehem — Margery Metzger has been a volunteer for Lehigh Valley Hospice providing support for the patients and their families in their homes from the start of their hospice journey to the passing of the patient. She also is a “No One Dies Alone” volunteer at LVHN. She drives patients to their cancer treatments 2-3 times per week for the Road to Recovery Program. She delivers library books to the homebound; this amazing woman also plays cello in 2 community orchestras.

Lynn Ratzell Nazareth— Lynn Ratzell, a retired environmental manager from PPL, is using his expertise in serving on the recently established Lower Nazareth Open Space Commission, helping to preserve farmland, woods and wetlands in the Lower Nazareth area. He has been a long-time volunteer at his church’s soup kitchen. Lynn displays his elaborate electric train complex during the Holidays with the America on Wheels Museum - a special attraction for the local children. He was involved with organizing The Lower Nazareth Village, an “Aging in Place” association - an innovative approach to serving seniors at home, similar to the College Hill Village in Easton.

Carol Reid Pen Argyl — Carol Reid was a great lady always thinking of others and how she could help. She worked tirelessly for many years as an EMT volunteer seven days a week for ambulance and fire calls in Plainfield Township. She volunteered at the local Farmers Fair taking blood pressure and offering her services for emergency care when needed. She is so deserving of this award and more. [ NOTE: the award was given Posthumously to her family - Carol died November 12, 2020.]

Bill Ryan Easton — Bill Ryan is a Marine Veteran who served in Vietnam and a recipient of the Purple Heart. He continues to serve today with visits to Veterans residing in Gracedale, stands with a flag at attention with others outside of funerals of fellow Veterans and gives talks at local schools on Veterans Day. In period uniform, Bill actively participates in the annual Christmas Day re-enactment of George Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware River.

Ronald B. Smith Bangor — Ronald Smith, member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Mt. Bethel, has exhibited leadership many times during past difficulties. He assisted the church in starting a Fellowship Time following services. His patience and supportive leadership has helped the congregation to experience a positive worship atmosphere. In keeping with his Service above Self, he has been President of the Richmond Lions Club more than once. Ron is also a member of Portland Lodge No. 311 F & AM - the Lodge hosted the “Toys for Tots” last December 2019, helping the U.S. Marines in their annual drive event.

Bonnie Winfield Easton — Dr. Bonnie Winfield developed an art-based support program “The Journey Home” involving art therapy for female inmates in the Northampton County Jail. It includes restorative practices and compassionate listening, practicing mindfulness-based yoga and forming new pathways in their thinking. Today even though she is retired, she spends four to five nights a week inside the jail working with the women and giving them hope and the courage to tell their stories through art and creative writing. She continues to be a lifeline for many of these women who are without friends or family. She serves as a teacher, spiritual counselor, guide and art therapist to all these women. She is an inspiration with her energy and her heart - as hundreds of women whose lives she has touched will agree.

 

GROUP AWARD

Social Ministry of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Pen Argyl, PA 18072 — St. Peter’s Social Ministry has been visiting Gracedale’s residents for many years. They donate birthday and Christmas presents, spending quality time with the residents during each visit. They also host Birthday Parties several times a year in the Chapel for any resident celebrating a birthday that month providing the cake and entertainment for the residents. In addition to Gracedale, the Social Ministry volunteers for Easton’s Safe Harbor and for the Garden of Grace which produced over 11,000 pounds of produce that was donated to local food banks. They donate hand-made items to the Meals on Wheels program, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Easton Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital, Fresenius Kidney Care Center, Veterans Hospital in Wilkes-Barre and food to Pen Argyl Salvation Army. The wonderful individuals involved in the Social Ministries Outreach Program are truly dedicated to their calling.

Wolf Has Now Closed 73 Restaurants Statewide

According to records maintained by the state Department of Agriculture, Governor Tom Wolf has now closed 73 restaurants statewide since December 14 over Covid-19 violations. This includes three restaurants in Lehigh County and one in NorCo.

In addition to closing 73 businesses, he's issued Covid-19 warnings to 180 eateries throughout the Commonwealth, including six in Lehigh and one on NorCo. Those warnings were issued the week of December 14-20. No warnings were issued the week of December 21-27. His inspectors just ordered 33 businesses to close.

Since December 14, his agents have responded to 134 Covid-19 complaints from snitches. They've also conducted 730 inspections.

Merry Christmas. 

I completely agree that the pandemic is now at its worst point. According to numbers cruncher Steve Thode, Lehigh County has had 8,189 new Covid cases for the month of December (as of Dec. 29) while NorCo reports 6,980. " Lehigh has had as many new cases in the 29 days of December as it had from the beginning of the pandemic up to November 12. NorCo has had as many new cases in the 29 days of December as it had from the beginning of the pandemic up to November 17."

But are restaurants the reason? 

Though they've been scapegoated and shuttered with no regard to the financial devastation caused, the real problem is that too little emphasis is placed on contact tracing. During the week of December 6-12 (the last week in which the state DOH has bothered to post data), contact tracers have only made contact with nine percent of those who needed to be advised to quarantine. This makes all the testing meaningless. 

In early May, Governor Wolf pledged to create a Commonwealth Civilian Coronavirus Corps to test and trace and provide jobs for those financially impacted by the pandemic. That never happened. Instead of an army of tracers who should be going door-to-door (as they did in Bethlehem during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic), there are just 230 case investigators statewide.  That's no army. This is yet another example of of how badly the state and federal governments have failed its citizenry and local businesses.    

Should Hazard Pay Be Reinstated at Jail?

On Thursday, I told you that Northampton County's jail is effectively in lockdown as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nobody may leave his or her cell, except for showers, and must be masked at all times. Fortunately, most of those who test positive are asymptomatic. 

Union President Kyle Schultz commented that there have been 35 positive Covid cases since November 1, although it's unclear whether he is talking about corrections officers or the entire jail.

On Monday, Executive Lamont McClure furnished  detailed breakdown of Covid-19 at the jail.

Head Count=513

Total Covid 19 Tests Conducted=1,814

Total Positive Covid 19 Tests=128

Total Current Active Covid 19 Cases=26

Total Recovered Covd 19 Cases=102

Extended Furlough=30

 

There are currently 6 staff quarantining.

In view of the Covid-19 crisis at the jail, County Council should give serious consideration to reinstating hazard pay for all corrections officers. Executive McClure is unable to do this because he has surrendered his emergency powers. Council, however, could authorize him to discuss this with the union. It is my understanding that the union has just agreed to a contract extension. It is unclear whether there is any funding for this in the latest Covid-19 relief bill, but even a small payment from the general fund is better than nothing. Corrections officers at the jail have actually saved several lives since the onset of the pandemic and need to know they are appreciated.

378 Covid-19 Vaccines on Way to Gracedale

According to Executive Lamont McClure, 378 doses of the Covid-19 Pfizer vaccine will be administered tomorrow by CVS. The pharmacy will send six technicians, and CVS decides who has priority. My understanding is that staff will be receiving injections first.   

Covid-19 Vaccine "Easy Peasy" For NorCo Council VP Lori Vargo Heffner

Most of the Lehigh Valley's at-risk population will be waiting months for a Covid-19 vaccine. But some of us are special. Or so they think. It should come as no surprise to any of us that Northampton County Council VP Lori Vargo Heffner has managed to jump to the front of the line and get her vaccine long before those of you who really are at high risk. She received her vaccine last week while corrections officers and Gracedale residents and staff wait in line. Easy peasy, she bragged on Facebook. 

Though she's nothing close to a first responder, Vargo-Heffner is getting preferential treatment because she works for St. Luke's.  The hospital has a rather loose interpretation of CDC guidelines regarding health care personnel.  

What Vargo-Heffner fails to realize is that her public gloating is a slap across the face of many of the people who deserve vaccination more than she. 

By the way, she only recently started working for St. Luke's. In late May, the hospital sought and received county approval to refinance bonds. This approval process came from both General Purpose Authority and County Council. Heffner just happens to sit on both boards. In July, she started at St. Luke's. 

Easy peasy.  

NorCo's Jail is Effectively Locked Down Due to Covid

According to a statement released by Northampton County, 34 inmates at the jail are in quarantine as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. There are currently about 515 inmates. 

Executive Lamont McClure confirmed yesterday that the entire jail is effectively in lockdown. No one is allowed to leave his or her cell except for showers. Moreover, everyone must be masked at all times. 

McClure indicated that the vast majority of those who test positive at the jail are asymptomatic. He has adopted a rigorous testing policy there. 

Gov. Wolf Has Closed 40 Restaurants For Covid Violations Since Dec 14

According to records maintained by the state Department of Agriculture, Governor Tom Wolf has closed 40 restaurants statewide since December 14 over Covid-9 violations. This includes two restaurants in Lehigh County and one in NorCo.

In addition to closing 40 businesses, he's issued Covid-19 warnings to 180 eateries throughout the Commonwealth, including six in Lehigh and one on NorCo. 

Over this time period, his agents have responded to 84 Covid-19 complaints. They've also conducted 403 inspections.  

I'm in Quarantine

No, it's not the 'rona. It's baked beans. Nazareth Borough was evacuated last night. 

If you received the weather notifications about bad air quality, you now know why. 

Covid's Grip in NorCo Remains Strong

 

Covid's ugly grip on Northampton County remains very strong. Executive Lamont McClure notes that the drive-thru testing site has a current positivity rate of 18%, and the graph you see above shows something else as well - deaths. 

On December 22, the county added 24 more deaths to its growing tally. The death toll now stands at 381. 

If you think the only way you can die is if you have some pre-existing condition, think again.

I know a local coach who is extremely fit, a bit lean and middle aged. He contracted Covid-19, and was hospitalized with pneumonia. He is out now, but is still weak and tired. Until vaccines are available, it really is important to follow CDC guidelines regarding masking and social distance.   

O'Hare's WWII Diary: Half-Starved Soldier Worries About Brother in South Pacific

This is the latest installment from my dad's short-lived diary, penned shortly after his release from a German POW camp. In these entries, my eighty pound and half-starved father worries about his brother, Art, who was then serving in the South Pacific.

Uncle Art was wounded shortly after my father's posts, but not seriously. He was shot in the ass. When I once questioned him about it many years later, he snarled, "I was in front of the front lines, going for extra ammunition."

That's about all he ever shared. He kept no diary. He drank a lot, too.

5/20/45

All of my equipment, loot, real and personal property was once again in moving order waiting to be donned on my aching back as soon as the order to move was given. I waited and waited, a practice at which I have become very adept, for hour upon hour but no such order came. As we were lined up for midday chow ten G.I. trucks pulled up as only G.I. trucks can and I thought that this day would at last see me back to our own lines. However, due to the absence of certain documents or some such reason we are again detained by the Russians. I'm becoming a firm believer in the Vonnegut statement that "getting out of Germany is like walking in sand." The rumor now seems to be that we will pull out tomorrow when the trucks return with the proper papers. More of Hq. Co. showed up today in the persons of Sgt. Shuve and Pfc Sabbatino. Both look OK except for the loss of weight common to all POW's. Neither could give me any info regarding the whereabouts of Sgt. Boyle, Heinbeck, or Edgeworth. I'd certainly enjoy seeing those boys again.

The war in the Pacific seems to be progressing favorably, although we are meeting stiff resistance on some of the islands. I have an uncomfortable feeling that I'll learn more of that phase of our international troubles through first-hand experience. I'd like to see that part of the world but it would be just my luck to accomplish the feat through the medium of being a POW of the Japs, and twice in a lifetime is too much. The Russian band serenaded us again tonight. I'm getting to really like Russian music. The Russians are very much like Americans in their outlook on life. I suppose that is what queers the English with them. A few of us went across the hall to where we had discovered a radio in the room of one of our comrades. We listened for a while and left being driven out by static and by the system the joker in charge was using to operate the darn thing. He's one of that particular species of mankind who thinks he's operating the blue network whenever he comes across a radio with more than two dials on it. We are now preparing for bed at the end of a rather uneventful day.

5/21/45

Lo and behold I am still in Riesa. No trucks appeared today or had been rumored. However, we did receive a visit from two chaplains - one Protestant and one Catholic. They both held services and I heard mass and received communion for the first time in five months. The chaplain who was from the 69th division claimed that we would be out of here in three or four days. He seemed pretty confident that we would be back in the states within a few weeks after we hit our own lines. My inbred scepticism [sic] prohibits me from placing too much stock in his optimistic statement. Time and time alone will tell. The chaplains also brought some V-mail along with them. I wrote to my parents and to Aunt Mae. The letters are supposed to be on their way, having been brought back to our own lines with the chaplain who left here seven o'clock this evening.

5/22/45

A very routine day. I slept through reveille and all the morning, arising only for breakfast. Most of the afternoon was spent by all of us chewing the rag in the room where we were assembled. I thought of home today. Nothing now seems more welcome than news of the family. I am worried especially about Art. I certainly hope he has been as lucky as I in regard to ducking bullets and artillery.

It is early evening now and all of us are in the room now writing, reading, playing cards and talking. Things will no doubt continue along the same line until bed time.
Blogger's Note: First published 12/17/07.

NorCo Purchases Phone Soap to Kill Covid-19

Steve Barron uses phone soap

 It's called phone soap and is used to sanitize smart phones and other electronic devices. Northampton County recently purchased 289 of these devices. Though he's now too thin to play Santa Claus, Fiscal Affairs Director Steve Barron was tasked with distributing them as follows:

County facilities - 99

Schools - 61

Police departments - 43

Libraries, community centers and city halls - 26

Municipalities (one each) - 37

Local nonprofits and emergency shelters - 12

Senior Centers - 11

It takes about 10 minutes to clean one phone.

Each of these sanitizers costs about $160, and was purchased with CARES Act money. 

WSJ: Nursing Home Workers Hesitate Over Vaccine

On Friday, I told you that Northampton County Council has approved a $750 cash incentive for Gracedale workers who agree to a Covid-19 vaccine. That may have been the right call. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that nearly 72% of certified nursing assistants are hesitant to get a vaccine. This is based on a survey conducted by the Nat'l Ass'n of Health Care Assistants.  Responses indicate that staffers feel as though they are guinea pigs. 

This story notes that unnamed lawyers have advised this vaccine can be mandated. That, however, is contrary to advice provided to the county by its own lawyers. It is also contrary to the express language of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which provides that an employee has the option "to accept or refuse" a vaccine that has only been approved for emergency use. 

The money for this will come from CARES Act money provided to the county-owned nursing home for "infection control." Unfortunately, this money is restricted to Gracedale and the county has no authority to use it to pay incentives to workers at the jail or juvenile justice center, where the risk of community spread is high. 

McClure Snags Firefighter Endorsement

In a campaign, it's normal to see Democrats endorsing Democratic candidates. So it's no surprise to see incumbent NorCo Exec Lamont McClure snag endorsements from Congress person Susan Wild and the mayors of both cities. They're all members of the same tribe. So I understand why some of you place no weight at all on endorsements. But some endorsements matter. One that matters to me is the endorsement of the firefighters' union.  McClure received the endorsement of the 2,000-member Pa. Professional Firefighters Ass'n on Friday. Those guys put their lives on the line every day for you and me. So when they speak, I listen. 

 

NorCo to Offer $750 Covid-19 Vaccine Incentive to Gracedale Workers

At their December 17 meeting, Northampton County Council voted 7-0 to offer a $750 Covid-19 vaccine incentive of $750 to Gracedale workers. Administrator Jennifer Stewart-King told Council this could cost as much as $490,000, but will be paid out of CARES Act money specifically set aside for "infection control" at the nursing home. 

In addition to this incentive, some Gracedale workers will continue to receive hazard pay until December 31.  Currently, two residents are infected. more infections than at any other time in the pandemic. 

This incentive only exists at Gracedale.  "We don't have the money to incentivize anyone else," explained Executive Lamont McClure 

Council member Kerry Myers was absent and Council President Ron Heckman left the meeting before the vote. 

Do Masks Help Sensitive Teeth?

Yesterday morning, I woke up with both a headache and a severe tooth ache. I have sensitive teeth, and this happens to me when ever there is winter storm.  My experience has been that nothing helps. You just have to ride it out. 

Yesterday, the pain went away when I was walking, so I assumed that the exercise probably helped. But it returned as soon as I stopped.  It has suddenly dawned on me how to end it. In fact, I ended it early this morning by doing one simple thing. 

Wearing a mask. 

When I exercise outside, I bring a mask but never wear it. When it gets cold, however, I have always worn a balaclava. I have quite a few. I have always liked the way they warm up my head, neck and the air as I breathe it. 

When I walked yesterday, and I was out twice, I wore a balaclava. My toothache was gone. The pain returned when I got home.

This morning, I donned a mask inside my underground lair, even though I am near no one. In 15 minutes, the pain was gone.  

I think the mask (or balaclava) might help those of us who suffer tooth aches during weather changes. 

This is just my personal experience. Nothing more. 

Have you had any positive experiences from wearing a mask? Feel free to share.  

LC Lawyer Eman Jarrah Seeks Open Judgeship

From Eman H Jarrah campaign: Deputy Lehigh County Solicitor Eman H. Jarrah announced her candidacy for Judge of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas.

Jarrah, age 45, has more than 20 years of legal experience, having spent the last 14 years in the Office of the Solicitor. In this position, she counsels human service agencies that serve some of the community’s most vulnerable consumers, including the elderly, intellectually disabled, and those individuals suffering from mental health issues. Jarrah has handled hundreds of cases, most before the Court of Common Pleas, advocating in court and before administrative bodies in the fight against abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. She is a member of the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Elder Abuse Task Force.

In 2018, Jarrah served on a six person Orphans’ Court Rules Committee to determine how to integrate local practice with the new Supreme Court Rules as they relate to guardianships. She assisted in developing practice pointers for attorneys unfamiliar with the new procedures.

Jarrah brings a breadth of legal expertise in the fields of municipal, legislative, contract, and agricultural preservation law. She provides legal opinions on often complex subject matter and advises Lehigh County offices on a daily basis.

During her years in private practice with a local firm, Jarrah handled intellectual property matters with a focus on trademark, copyright and franchise law.

A Lehigh Valley native, Jarrah is a graduate of Dieruff High School. She attended Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where she graduated with Honors with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry. During her senior year, she was selected to receive the American Chemical Society Award. She attended the University of Dayton School of Law and was a member of the Law Review. Her article on copyright and star pagination is published in the University’s law journal.

Jarrah has served as a board member of the Allentown YMCA/YWCA.

As an adjunct professor at Moravian College, Jarrah has co-taught a course on Science and Intellectual Property. She is a frequent presenter at the Lehigh County Bar Association. Jarrah is also bilingual in English and Arabic.

“I am a mother, wife, and lawyer with strong roots in the Lehigh Valley – I value our community. Working for the County of Lehigh has given me fresh insights and impacted my legal career in a very meaningful way. I believe it is critical to remain open-minded, be a good listener, and have a thorough understanding of the law. It would be a privilege to serve as a Judge, and if elected, I commit to be fair, balanced, and equitable.”

A daughter of immigrants, Jarrah grew up in the City of Allentown, and resides currently in the Borough of Emmaus with her husband David and their two children.

Blogger's Note: Between Jarrah and Shields, these are two very impressive choices. What's great is that you get three.

How Are You Handling the Storm?

Though I managed to walk about four miles today, I've mostly been hunkered down in my underground lair. Though I usually spend my time a bit more productively, I confess that I've been binge-watching the Mandolarian. 

Having been a fan of both Lone Wolf and Child as well as Clint Eastwood, this has been a real treat. 

I think today might be a bad day for a bike ride. 

How are you coping? 

Upper Milford Super Running For LC Comm'r

EMMAUS, PA - Joyce K. Moore, elected to the Upper Milford Board of Township Supervisors in November 2017, announced today that she is running for Lehigh County Commissioner in District #5 (encompassing the Boroughs of Coopersburg, Emmaus, Macungie; the Townships of Lower Milford, Salisbury, Upper Saucon, and Upper Milford; as well as the 12th Ward, and parts of the 13th Ward of the City of Allentown).

As a longtime resident of the Lehigh Valley and a two-time public officeholder, Ms. Moore has a full appreciation of the importance of local government and its impact on the community.

Originally from Delaware County, in the Philadelphia suburbs, Ms. Moore moved to Easton, PA, where she served on the Glendon Borough Council, before moving to Upper Milford Township in Lehigh County where she has served for three years as a Township Supervisor and continues to serve her term, including the past year as Chair of the Board of Supervisors. She raised her family and built her financial planning business right here in Lehigh County.

"My life has always revolved around the idea of service," Moore says, "service to my clients, service to my community, and service to country." As a Chartered Financial Consultant and small business owner, Ms. Moore has built her career of over 30 years of experience in providing her clients with unbiased investment, estate, and retirement planning advice.

Ms. Moore has devoted her time as an Upper Milford resident to protecting open space. Ms. Moore states that “As a long-time resident of Upper Milford, I've been an active member of the Emmaus Upper Milford Environmental Advisory Council, the Sierra Club, the Appalachian Mountain Club, including as the chair of the Upper Milford Open Space Committee.”

In addition to her service in the community, as a mother Ms. Moore was a Cub Scout Den Leader, an Assistant Scoutmaster for BSA Troop 31 in Williams Township, Minsi Trails Council, and a board member of the Spring Garden Children’s School.

 

Ms. Moore sees the finding of a balance between open space and farmland preservation with smart development as paramount to the county’s ability to sustain high paying jobs for Lehigh County’s working families, upholding our high quality of life.

Collectively, Ms. Moore views the opportunity to continue serving her community as a County Commissioner as being in-line with his desire to leverage her experience to enhance fiscal responsibility, paramount to the efficient operation of county government. "I wish to continue my record of service by putting my experience towards supporting our county in its standing as one of the premier counties in the commonwealth while serving with both diligence and passion," Moore says.

 

Additional information about Joyce Moore’s candidacy and background can be found at www.mooreforlehigh.com. You can also follow her on social media at Joyce Moore for Lehigh County (Facebook), @Moore4Lehigh (Twitter) and @mooreforlehigh (Instagram). 

Covid-19 Tests Coming Back Positive in NorCo

From Northampton County: Lamont McClure and Emergency Management Services are releasing the results from COVID-19 drive-through testing sites in Northampton County.

The Department of Health sponsored AMI to hold a drive-through/walk-in COVID-19 testing site at the William Penn Park & Ride from December 2-6. The site tested people from Northampton County and surrounding areas. The positivity rate for Northampton County residents was 16%. The positivity rate for residents from Carbon, Lehigh and Monroe counties was 19%.

A drive-through testing site has been available at Coordinated Health at 3100 Emrick Blvd in Bethlehem Township since July. Currently, the positive rate for COVID-19 at that site is 14.6%.

“It’s clear that the Coronavirus is prevalent in our area which is concerning as we head into the holidays where people will be tempted to gather with their loved ones,” says Lamont McClure. “While a vaccine has been approved, it will be months before it becomes available to everyone. I encourage all Northampton County residents to continue to wear masks, socially distance and wash their hands frequently.”

A COVID-19 drive-through testing site is open at 3100 Emrick Blvd. Bethlehem Township, 18020. Hours of operation are Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 9:00AM – 4:00PM and Tuesday/Thursday from 11:00AM to 6:00PM. The site is open on every Saturday from 9:00AM – 12:00 Noon. The drive-through testing center is located in the parking area to the rear of the Coordinated Health Building and is separate from patient parking and routine patient care. The majority of patients tested at this site received their results in one-to-two days.

A Physician’s order is not required but, to be eligible for testing, individuals must report or display one or more CDC-recognized symptoms of COVID-19: fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat or loss of taste and/or smell. The drive-through site is open to everyone, but only residents of Northampton County will receive a free test if they do not have health coverage. All testing will be through HNL Lab Medicine unless insurance requires an alternate laboratory. Participants should bring a photo ID and their insurance card, if they have one, with them to the testing site.  

Bethlehem to Offer Second Round of Small Business Grants ... Eventually

Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez has announced a second round of COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Grants for awards of up to $10,000.

According to a news release, the program should be posted on the city website, but I don't see it. That's a strange way to respond what the city itself proclaims is an "urgent need." That really should be available NOW, not in a few months. 

The city has thus far awarded $204,000 to 102 businesses. 

Businesses must employing fewer than 50 employees and be struggling to stay open or reopen to apply. Financial need documentation will be required. For reasons that elude me, priority is given to minority businesses and those located in the downtown and or low- and moderate-income areas of the City.

It would seem to me that if you're struggling and just happen to be white, you should be just as eligible as anyone else. 

According to the release, "All questions and or technical assistance needed for completing the grant application is handled by the City of Bethlehem’s Department of Community and Economic Development. A full list of grant requirements, required documentation, and grant application are forthcoming and will be posted on the City’s website and social media outlets."

This should be posted now, not after the new year. 

Holmes Guilty of First Degree Murder

In what is believed to be the first capital murder case since the Covid-19 pandemic reared its ugly head, a Northampton County jury has convicted Jacob Holmes, 40, of first degree murder in the execution-style slaying of Miguel Aponte at the Easton Cafe in 2009. WFMZ's Emma Wright has an excellent summary of the closing arguments and verdict.

On Friday, the death penalty phase of the trial begins. 

Snow Emergency

 Pretty much everything will be closed tomorrow and Thursday. WFMZ-TV always has an exhaustive list of cancellations and delays. 

Bethlehem Joins Easton in Closing Building to Public

Like Easton, Bethlehem is closing its doors to the public in reaction to a spike in Covid-19 cases. While I understand the need to protect municipal workers, can't that be accomplished through masks, temperature checks and social distancing? What these cities are really doing is giving employees a paid vacation at our expense. They are hiding from the public they ostensibly serve. I am one of those people who believes government has a necessary role, especially in a pandemic. By turning tail and hiding, these cities send the message that perhaps smaller government is better after all.  

I am aware of only one employee who has been infected at the Northampton County courthouse since it was re-opened to the public. If there is demonstrable evidence that closure is necessary, this reaction would be understandable. But a government that closes its doors in a panic demonstrates no leadership at all. 

Jacob Holmes Trial - Lawyers Make Closing Arguments Today

The capital murder trial of Jacob Homes continues. He is charged in the execution-style slaying of Miguel Aponte at Easton Cafe on March 30, 2009. Franklin Barndt, who is serving 16-42 years for his role in the shooting, has been the chief witness against Holmes. 

The case, believed to be the first capital case in the state since the emergence of Covid-19, is being personally tried by DA Terry Houck, with the assistance of Deputy DA Tatum Wilson. 

Houck rested his case yesterday. 

Holmes is represented by veteran criminal defense lawyer Brian Monahan, with the assistance of Attorney Matt Goodrich. 

Monahan rested without calling a witness. 

Lawyers will close today, after which President Judge Michael Koury, Jr., will charge the jury. 

If convicted, the trial will go into a death penalty phase.  

 

Superior Court Judge Maria McLaughlin Seeks Seat on Pa Supreme Court

Pa. Superior Court Judge Maria McLaughlin has announced she will be seeking an open seat on the state supreme court next year. 

Judge McLaughlin is a graduate of Penn State (1988) and Delaware Law School of Widener (1999). She spent most of her legal career as a prosecutor in the Philly DA's office before being elected a common pleas judge in 2011 and a Superior Court judge in 2017. In her 2017 race, she was the top vote getter. 

In the above video, she tells you a little bit about herself.

Her mantra? "Never forget where you came from." 

Missing Person in Bethlehem Tp

Jose Daniel Carrasco, 25 years old, was last seen on December 9, 2020 around 8am in the area of Easton Avenue and Willow Park Road in Bethlehem Township.  He is described as being around 5'10" tall, 300 pounds, black hair, brown eyes.  He has no tattoos.  He was last seen wearing a grey jacket and a red skull cap.

If seen, or if you might know his location, please dial 911.
 
If you have any information to assist our investigation, please contact Inv. Stevens at 610-814-6473 or email astevens@bethlehemtwp.com

Cheyenne 9’s Coverage of the Official White House Address

"This parody video comes from the creators of South Park.

LV Covid-19 Cases Are Triple What They Were in April

 From numbers cruncher Steve Thode: As of today (Sunday)  Lehigh County and NorCo have reported a combined total of 7,322 new COVID cases over the past 14 days. That is almost triple the peak 14-day new case number from the first wave (2,487 on April 15).

Blogger's Note: For those of you suffering from this illness, I wish you a speedy recovery. I have a few friends who are battling it now.  Unless you are a White House staffer, it's unlikely any of us sees a vaccine anytime soon. Although I have no medical background, and you should do your own research, there is some evidence that Vitamin D may help prevent infection or reduce its severity. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight.