Walt Felton Bests Bar Johnston as Lehigh County Dem Boss

If you don't think Democrat Bar Johnston is an indefatigable campaign worker, talk to republican State Representative Justin Simmons. Though he's managed to win against weak candidates, the races have been much closer than they should have been because of her. She is a combination campaign consultant, cheerleader and has a deadly ground game. If you want to run for office, and have very little money to spend, you want her in your camp. But Lehigh County Democrats don't. She just might be too good. She was defeated last night in a race against affable Walt Felton, an 18' tall Northampton County Deputy Sheriff who also is running for state senate.

Here's what happened. Jude Denis, who likes to make a few bucks by acting as a political consultant for local Democrats, got up and nominated another paid political consultant whose name escapes me at the moment. She, in turn, nominated Jude. They both declined the nominations in favor of Walt, but not before completely trashing Bar as divisive, too willing to work with Republicans, etc.

What really bothered them, and Mike Fleck, is that Bar is a true believer. Instead of charging people like Susan Wild and Joyce Moore money that they can't pay, she organizes volunteers and real grass roots efforts.

We'll have none of that.

Former Allentown Mayor To Take Reins of Lehigh County GOP

Bill Heydt, who served as Allentown's Mayor from 1994-2002, will be the next Chair of the Lehigh County GOP. At a meeting last night, he was the only person nominated, so his election is assured next week when the party regulars meet. It will be by acclamation.

Heydt succeeds Wayne Woodman, a divisive party boss, who was absent from last night's meeting. Woodman refused to run candidates for city Council and mayor in Allentown, hoping to depress the turnout so that ultra-conservative Scott Ott would be elected Executive.

Ott has since resigned his seat as Commissioner and moved to Texas.

Heydt's election appears to mark the end of the so-called "Reform Team" in Lehigh County, which attacked mainstream Republicans like Dean Browning for voting with his conscience.

Hopefully, it will also mark the re-birth of democracy in Allentown. As Ron Beitler point out at his Lower Macungie Smarter Growth blog, "What better person to help identify and cultivate quality city candidates and bring right of center viewpoints and perspective into the urban conversation than the last Republican Mayor of Allentown?"

Main Street Sidewalk Repairs Slated For Spring

Bethlehem's Town Hall

In contrast to the rancor at some recent meetings of Bethlehem City Council, Council President J. Willie Reynolds was able to breeze through the agenda at their June 17 meeting. Nine appointments to the Historic Conservation Commission were approved unanimously. So were several requests to authorize grant applications for sidewalk repairs on Main Street and on the City's South Side.

As explained by Public Works Director Michael Alkhal, the City is seeking a $250,000 grant for a $500,000 sidewalk repair and streetscaping project along Main Street, between Market and Walnut Streets.

Council member Michael Recchiuti was concerned about the merchants along Main Street who will contribute $125,000 for these repairs. He asked, "Are they on board with this?" Alkhal answered that he will meet with them, but noted that the cost to them is now half what it as when this project was initially proposed last year. Alkhal added that the project would take 75 days to complete, and will start as soon in the spring as possible because merchants would prefer to see the work done early. He promised "minimal disruption" and said work would be limited to one property at a time.

Planning Director Darlene Heller said the $200,000 grant for the City's South Side will be spent mostly on sidewalk repairs along Fourth Street. She told Council that other sources of revenue include $100,000 from a previous grant, $200,000 from the Bethlehem Steel TIF project and $50,000 from Lehigh University.

The only controversial matter, the approval of a new Director of Recycling, has been postponed until July 1, with the administration's agreement.

Two citizens also addressed City Council.

Thomas Carroll, a former City Council and County Judge candidate, informed Council that several members of the public will participate in a reading of the declaration of independence at Payrow Plaza on July 4. The readers will include Judge Emil Giordano, Mayor Bob Donchez and Police Chief Mark DiLuzio.

Steve Antalics complimented the Mayor for using his own car, even though he is on cal 24/7, and told Council that he is "setting a very good example" that needs to be followed by other city workers. He noted that one City employee drives a city-owned vehicle back and forth to Bucks County daily, wasting thousands of dollars in public money. he said only two people, the Police and Fire Chief, should be permitted to drive city-owned vehicles home.

"We should start counting pennies," he reasoned.

Bethlehem Firefighter Honored For 37 years of Service

Paul Harvilla with Chief Robert Novatnack

Paul Harvilla was honored by Bethlehem City Council on June 17 for 37 years of dedicated service as a firefighter. In his career, he's been enveloped by fireballs caused by gas leaks and has suffered smoke inhalation while battling blazes. In a February fire, in which an Itaska Street woman woke up to find her home on fire, she made it to the roof, where Harvilla snapped his ankle while assisting in her rescue. A quiet man, the now retired firefighter just thanked everyone. He was given a standing ovation.

As he made his way out, Fire Chief Robert Novatnack caught up to him in the hallway. "I wish I had 100 more guys like him," the Chief said. "He came to work every day and did his job."

Harvilla, a 1972 graduate of Bethlehem Catholic High School as well as Northampton Community College, explained that firefighters today receive more certifications and training than they did when he first started. "Years ago, the City would teach you," he explained.

There's Hope For Us Yet

For most people, attending a public meeting is right up there with a root canal, especially on a gorgeous June summer night, with the sun still beckoning. But get this. Brayden Hough, a Wolf School scholar who has already attended a meeting to fulfill a scouting requirement, asked his father to bring him back. And he had lots of questions. Where's the Mayor? Sitting at a table in front of Council. Who's that man in the middle? That's Council President Willie Reynolds? What does he do? Teach in Allentown. Then why isn't he on Allentown Council? You have to live in the City.

His father, ArtsQuest Event Services Director Scott Hough, wanted to go for a ride in a squad car. Brayden seemed more interested in Robert's Rules of Order.

Do You Like the Sound of Jackhammers in the Morning?

fire hydrant at Pickwick Place

Pickwick Place resident Sheri Curtain usually awakens to the sound of birds at her neighborhood in Canterbury Estates, near Oakland and Hecktown Roads. But at least four times within the last two weeks, she was awakened by jackhammers, not songbirds. On June 16, it was at 6:37 am. To make matters worse, the jackhammers have been accompanied by a construction crew, who instead of whistling while they work, curse loudly. But the icing on the cake is that the development is the work of Nic Zawarski and Sons, and Marty Zawarski is the President of Bethlehem Township's Board of Commissioners.

Curtain, who has been plagued with this racket for the past three summers, decided to call the police. An officer who responded at first told her that this kind of work had to wait until 8 am. But later that day, he came back and told her that contractors can start as early as 7 am.

Under Bethlehem Township's noise ordinance, the use of lawnmowers and household power tools is prohibited before 8 am. But "construction operations", which can include the occasional stick of dynamite, and "repairs to public facilities" can start as early as 7 am.

That was enough for Curtain. She appeared before Commissioners, including Zawarski, at their meeting that evening and said, "I'm done with this. I'm done with being disrespected." She went on to explain that she and neighbors are unable to even see the fire hydrant that is supposed to serve their properties because it is overgrown by weeds. She also complained about the absence of storm sewers along a 3/4 mile stretch of road. "I'm tired of hydroplaning," she said.

Zawarski said nothing during the meeting. But after it was over, he released a series of email exchanges concerning Curtain's complaint and went out to view the property. One of these emails is from Police Captain Gregory J. Gottschall. He concludes these are "construction operations", although he points out that the ordinance could have been more clear.

Captain Gottschall adds, "[T]he workers actually began work prior to 7am. The original dispatch for the call was at 0641am."

Sheri Curtain

In addition to the noise, Curtain was annoyed by the crew's use of obscenities in a neighborhood filled with children. "I was in the Marine Corps for seven years," she noted. "I can outcurse the best sailor out there. But I'm not going to do it in front of children."

Curtain acknowledged that the cursing did stop once she left them a note on their port-a-potty.

After the meeting, Zawarski also send this directive to Township Manager Melissa Shafer. "Please inform the Police Chief that if any violation occurs at Canterbury Estates, that I do expect the sub-contractor, vendor, or tradesperson to be cited and fined."

The email exchanges released by Zawarski reveal that he himself is working at that location. This puts him in an awkward position. Under the state Ethics Act, he is barred from using his office "for the private pecuniary benefit of himself, a member of his immediate family or a business with which he or a member of his immediate family is associated."

Aside from Curtain's concerns, which include stormwaters, Commissioners heard from Chetwin Terrace residents whowere flooded out again after a recent downpour. They learned that the traffic signals at William Penn Highway and Route 33 are timed correctly, which means that PennDOT will have to solve the growing congestion problem there. And they heard from martin Comer. "I'm an old man," he told them."But I've never seen water like we have now. It's all through the township."

Morganelli Supports Amnesty For Drug OD Whistleblowers

DA John Morganelli

District Attorney John Morganelli has joined the bipartisan chorus supporting changes in state law that will guarantee immunity to minor drug offenders who report drug overdoses to emergency responders. At a June 16 news conference, he referred to legislation currently being considered by State Senate majority leader Dominic Pileggi. A similar proposal unanimously passed the State House in May. "Saving lives should take precedence over prosecuting minor drug cases," reasoned Morganelli.

A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that drug overdose deaths have doubled between 1999 and 2010. Many of these are from prescription painkillers, which have killed more than 15,500 people in the United States since 2009. In addition to the fatalities, emergency department visits for prescription painkiller abuse have doubled in the past 5 years to nearly half a million.

In Northampton County, the problem is acute. According to the Pennsylvania State Coroners Association, 149 people died in Northampton County from drug overdoses between 2009 and 2013. By contrast, in Lehigh County, there were only 40 deaths. In Monore County, there were only 32 deaths.

Northampton County has a larger number of colleges than Lehigh or Monroe County.

Morganelli calls the proposal, which still allows the prosecution of drug dealers and drug induced homicides, "reasonable legislation to encourage individuals who are aware that someone is in harm's way as a result of a drug overdose to contact 911 without fear that the good deed could land them in jail."

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 34 states have introduced bills this year to minimize the number of drug overdose deaths. Morganelli added that 19 states already have some form of amnesty.

In Pennsylvania, Governor Corbett signed legislation in 2011 that provides legal amnesty to underage drinkers who call emergency authorities to help a friend with an emergency, alcohol-related, illness.

Boys and Girls Club Golf Tourney Draws 114 Golfers

The 35th annual Boys and Girls Club Golf Tournament at Silver Creek Country Club

The 35th annual Bethlehem Boys and Girls Club Golf Tournament, played this year under sunny skies at Hellertown's Silver Creek Country Club, attracted 114 golfers. According to Chief Professional Gary Martell, it's the biggest crowd he's seen in the past 17 years. That's a good thing, because this tournament is one of the Club's biggest fundraisers.

Founded in Bethlehem 84 years ago, the Boys and Girls Club has over 4,000 members, who are aided by a corps of 600 volunteers in different programs designed to enable kids to enhance self-esteem and fulfill their potential. These include Project Learn, which enhances the educational process at school with additional learning activities at the club. The club also focuses on gang awareness, physical activity and drug and alcohol prevention.

"It's a character building organization," stated Martell.

Scott Chevrolet offered this Mazda to the first golfer able to score a hole-in-one on the par 3 fourth hole

Father and son Larry and Cade Baker practice their putting. 

Boys Club member Louis Rosado loads bags onto waiting carts

WAEB's Defamation Campaign Against DA Jim Martin

Bobby Gunther Walsh, the Lehigh Valley's aging poster boy for crackpot AM radio, is a combination huckster and conspiracy theorist. Between an endless series of commercials and promotions, he parades a series of goofy guests to tell us the sky is falling. Lately, he's been conducting a witch hunt against Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin.

It started in February and will continue today. Walsh uses a guest (I won't name him) who has a vendetta against Martin. "I have multiple pages of documentation that [my guest] provides to back up what he is asserting," Walsh deceptively assures listeners.

He accuses Martin of creating "a culture of corruption and incompetence." He implies falsely that Martin goes easy on drunk drivers because he's a drunk himself. Walsh's guest states, "Maybe there are people in high places in Lehigh County, maybe in the District Attorney's office, who have experience driving drunk and don't think it's that big of a deal." Walsh and his guest even accuse the DA of case-fixing. He encourages listeners to mob courtrooms in an obvious attempt to resurrect lynch mob justice. While passing out pitchforks and torches, they defame a man who has dedicated much of his professional career to criminal justice.

Last Wednesday, police officers from all over the Lehigh Valley were recognized for their efforts in deterring both aggressive and drunk driving. Jim Martin was the person who made these presentations, and then stuck around to hear their concerns. That's pretty strange behavior for someone who goes easy on drunk drivers.

Walsh has never acknowledged the visionary role Martin plays in law enforcement.This includes the creation of a regional crime center that uses the latest information technology advances. This center has solved several homicides and other major crime sprees. Instead of focusing on reality, Walsh defames Martin as a corrupt, crooked, incompetent, case-fixing drunk who goes easy on and cuddles with criminal defendants, especially if they are "young and shapely" blondes. Walsh and his guest have told outright lies, not verifiable facts, about three cases. Let me set the record straight. .

James W. Lauer 

What initially attracted Walsh's guest to this defendant is his last name - Lauer. Walsh's guest think there must be a connection to Phil Lauer, a prominent defense attorney.

Gunther's guest repeatedly asks, "Who does he know?"

There is no relation.

James Lauer has been charged four times with drunk driving. In the most recent episode, he ran a stop sign, T-boned a car, and injured four people, including a pregnant woman. He left the scene, but was apprehended right away, and has been in jail since that day. In addition to driving drunk, Lauer committed an interlock violation, somehow evading a system that authorities installed to keep him from driving drunk.

He is obviously going to get hammered.

But Gunther's guest incredibly warns, "I smell a case fix here."

I smell something, too. Bullshit. The guy has been in the can since the day of the accident, and had no lawyer at his most recent court appearance, months after languishing in jail. Not even a Public Defender. He has been jailed repeatedly for his drinking. If anything, Lauer's record demonstrates a no-nonsense approach to drinking and driving in Lehigh County.

But Walsh's guest claims he has proof that Lauer gets special treatment.

"In 2010, when Mr. Lauer was doing time for his third DUI in Lehigh County prison, they gave him an afternoon furlough to attend a wedding," he charges. "Would they do that for you or me? Who is this guy? Who does he know? You're in prison for your third DUI. They let you out to go to a wedding?"

Walsh starts laughing, creating the impression that authorities let a drunk out of jail to get blasted at a wedding reception.

Here's why this furlough was granted. Lauer's son was getting married. It was just three days prior to parole. He was released for three hours to attend the ceremony itself, not the reception. Moreover, Lauer was drug and alcohol tested when he returned to jail. The courts would do this for any inmate who had a good record in jail. You don't treat people like animals and then expect them to act like humans.

Walsh and his guest know these verifiable facts. They would rather lie so you believe that Lauer is connected..

Amber Washko

Another false claim made by Walsh and his guest is that Martin gives preferential treatment to "young attractive drunk driving women". He cites the pending Washko case as an example. Last May, at what Gunther's guest himself admits is a "tricky intersection" at American Parkway and Dauphin Street, Washko ran into a vehicle being driven by Joseph Hennessey and killed him. Nearly eight months later, she was charged with drunk driving, but not homicide by vehicle.

An incredulous Walsh asks, "She wasn't even charged with vehicular homicide? ... You're kidding me."

Walsh's guest responds, incorrectly, that this woman was driving too fast, "obviously ran a solid red light," and killed Hennessey as he inched his way into the intersection. He calls the matter a "case-fix in progress", and thinks vehicular homicide charges should have been filed. In a letter to Judge Ford, he complains, "I know a judge can't tell crooked, incompetent, and lazy DA Jim Martin what charges to file."

Police knew Washko was drunk and could have charged her with that right away. But if she pleaded to these charges, they would be unable to charge her with anything more serious even if they later determined that her intoxication was a factor in the crash. You can't try someone twice for the same or even a related crime. Police waited, appropriately, until their investigation was complete before deciding what to charge.

Here are the facts, based on what police found in their own accident reconstruction. Hennessey was ahead of the white stop line that appears on American Parkway at that light. His vehicle was going 15 mph through the red light, and Washko came along at 43 mph. She had the light. Hennessey's vehicle was blocked by an embankment, and when it finally came into view, Washko only had 1.0 seconds to react and attempt to avoid a collision. According to police, it would take a sober person 1.6 seconds to react. That is why Washko was spared vehicular homicide charges. Though she was impaired, it played no role in Hennessey's death.
 
"Is this another example of a shapely (and drunk driving) young female being left off the hook by an enchanted DA Jim Martin?" asks Walsh's guest on his blog, to which Walsh refers listeners repeatedly.

No. You don't automatically charge someone, even a drunk person, with vehicular homicide. There must be evidence that the intoxication played a role in what happened.

Jennifer Gehringer 

In another effort to falsely portray Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin as a prosecutor who looks the other way for "young, shapely blondes," Walsh and his guest point to Jennifer Gehringer. She struck and killed Parkland gym teacher John Toggas in 2008 as he crossed the street near Dorney Park. Though she was intoxicated, she was never charged with vehicular homicide. Just drunk driving.

Outrageous, exclaim Walsh and guest.

Here are the facts they fail to tell listeners. It was around 2 am, dark and Toggas was wearing a black T-shirt and dark shoes. He was drunk himself, and had been arrested earlier that night for drunk driving. He had argued with his wife, and decided to walk 13 miles home, loaded.

Gehringer, driving at or under the speed limit, never saw him. Nor would a sober person.

Walsh and his guest have been feeding a string of lies and distortions to radio listeners. They want to see courtrooms packed with 50-100 people to pressure judges into imposing harsh sentences instead of following the law. Ironically, they may have tainted Washko and Lauer so badly that it will be impossible to try these presumed innocent defendants in Lehigh County. Ex parte contacts have already resulted in the recusal of several judges.

I'd like to see the courtroom packed, too, when Walsh, his guest and Clear Channel are sued for libel. They have no interest in justice, but do have axes to grind.

The Rats Have a Picnic

Last Summer, when Northampton County Republicans were temporarily under the control of Bob Kerr, I got to see his imperious tendencies first hand. I watched him tell Northampton County bulldog Ron Angle to sit down. I heard him insult top vote-getter Peg Ferraro, a former chair herself. "A past chairman is just that - past." Eventually, he was forced to resign. He and a small group of Republicans have splintered off and formed their own club, calling themselves, appropriately enough, RATs (Republican Action Team).

Although this splinter group claims to be all about electing conservatives, that's untrue. They have refused to back conservatives like Ron Angle or Lee Snover, both of whom are certainly right of center. This is really just a power trip by a group who think it's their turn to be boss, no matter what the majority of Republicans may think. Last month, their entire slate of state committee candidates lost, despite a negative website, negative mailers and robo calls, using a committee that never registered.

They had a picnic on Saturday, and probably devoured a few wheels of cheese. The only elected official who came is conservative NorCo Council member Hayden Phillips.

But Tricia Mezzacappa was there, wearing her my six-shooter. Tom Carroll gave a speech pretending he'd be a great judge and one party-goer strums his lips.

Congrats to Jay Leeson

It was a pleasant surprise to learn on Friday that Bethlehem Attorney Joseph "Jay" Leeson has been nominated by President Obama to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pa. We'll be lucky to have this very able advocate.I've seen him in action, and can attest first hand that he, like his brother, is a class act.

Here's two things about Jay that you may not know.

First, he helped write Northampton County's Home Rule Charter. That's the Constitution of our County.

Second, he's part of an unusual group of lawyers who after graduating from law school, teamed up and drove to Philly daily one summer in the same shitty car to study for the bar. They scarfed hot dogs for lunch if they had money. This distinguished cadre of young men included John Morganelli (Northampton County DA), Phil Hof (tireless child advocate) and Jack Panella (Superior Court Judge) and Jay. They were all admitted to Northampton County's Bar together.

The picture included here was taken on Ash Wednesday.

Over 10,000 American Flags Retired in Bethlehem

On Flag Day, in the middle of a baseball game, an announcer suddenly began playing the Star Spangled Banner at Lehigh Little League. It was no mistake. This musical interruption occurred because, a few hundreds yard to the south, at the Bethlehem Steeler athletic fields, American Legion Harry F. W. Johnson Post 379 was saying good-bye to Old Glory. With the help of Bethlehem firefighters Lou Jimenez and Jessie Sterner, over 10,000 American Flags were retired as the sun set.

Boy scouts had previously collected tattered flags from local cemeteries and turned them over to the American Legion, and residents like Joanne Van Billiard added to the pile.

The honor guard, which consisted of Charles Perna, John McCulloch, John Watson, Dick Fasching, Joe Herkalo, Walter Markotic and Steve Mitala, presented a 21-gun salute. When they finished, WWII Vet LeRohn "Dan" Dreysher played "taps". Then Commander Ken Nichol lit the flame.

Joanne Van Billiard is also with "Moms in Military" 

Honor Guard provides 21-gun salute.

The Persecution of a Nazareth Rose

Her name is Rosie. I've known her for many years. If you pass through Nazareth on a regular basis, you've probably seen her. For years, she has religiously walked dogs for people who are unable to do it themselves. She does not even charge to do this, although I'm sure that people give her a few bucks when they can. On the coldest days this winter and the hottest days of summer, she is out there, usually with a few friends. Occasionally, she watches the shops of local business owners while they run errands. They can trust her. The Rosies of this world are what give small towns their charm. But to Nazareth police, she is a menace. While real criminals deal drugs in the borough park, two cops wasted taxpayer money by persecuting this cancer survivor for harassment yesterday.

Maybe she's a little lonely. Maybe she's just very friendly. But whatever the reason, she does like to stop in at a lot of the local businesses. If they tell her they're busy, she leaves. She's never been a problem.

But one local business owner, who resented her occasional visits, chose to talk to the police instead of her. He even obtained a "No Trespassing Order", which was served on her by Police Chief Thomas Trachta, a New York City transplant with a thick accent. Never mind that there's no provision in the Crimes Code or anywhere else that authorizes police to take this extrajudicial step.

Rosie stayed away from this business, and was even careful to walk on the other side of the street to avoid any scrutiny. But that was not enough.

In April, Rose was charged with harassment. According to the business owner, he saw her and a young lady walking their dogs, near the now vacant Nazareth National Bank at Main and Mauch Chunk. Rosie supposedly pointed at him from across the street and said, "If I had a gun, I'd shoot you in the ass."

At this time, Rosie was accompanied by a minor who denies anything of the sort happened. Rosie denies saying a word to this gentleman. There were no other witnesses. People were in the ice cream shop across the street, but no effort was made to contact any of them. They made no reports.

Though Nazareth police saw nothing, Officer Miroslav Djindjiev charged her with harassment. The officer told her he was protecting a business owner

She must be a second class citizen.

For someone like Rosie, these charges were devastating. She was a wreck. Though I saw nothing, I offered to testify as a reputation witness. I know many of the locals and many of the businesses, and they all have a high opinion of Rosie.

She later told me that her sister hired a good lawyer to represent her.

When I walked into court yesterday, both Officer Djindjiev and Chief Trachta were there, rarin' to go, with their guns and bullet proof vests strapped on. You never know what a lady in her 50s might do. The business owner and his wife, were there, though they weren't packin'. I also saw a former business owner and wondered whether she was there to testify against Rosie, too.

I then saw Rosie's lawyer. Though she's a real looker, I would soon learn that she has no business being in a courtroom.

Rosie's sister, when she saw me, was visibly angry. Not only did she refuse to tell me who she was, but she also told me not to quote her. Then she went up and whispered to Rosie's lawyer, apparently about me.

When District Judge Capobianco came into the courtroom, the first thing this lawyer did was attempt to have me ejected from the courtroom because my mere presence was making the Defendant "very uncomfortable."

I get that a lot.

If Rosie is a second class citizen, I must be third class.

The Judge asked Rosie whether she had asked me to come. She answered Yes.

The Judge then asked whether my presence made her uncomfortable. She answered No.

So I was allowed to stay, but was never called as a witness. Nor was the other business owner, whom I later learned was actually there, like me, to speak on behalf of Rosie.

This lawyer, if I can call her that, failed to call either one of us, even though reputation testimony, by itself, is enough to raise a reasonable doubt. She failed to object to clear hearsay testimony and never bothered to interrogate the motives of the Officer. Worst of all, she made no legal argument. Rosie was charged under a provision of the Crimes Code which requires repeated acts or a course of conduct, not just one isolated incident. Rosie, who was distraught, was unable to do little more than deny that she had yelled at this gentleman. So it's no surprise that the Rose of Nazareth was convicted. But Judge Capobianco, who was total class in this matter, was aware that something was off about this prosecution. He reduced the fine to $100.

The attorney traipsed off for a manicure. She did not represent Rosie, but her sister.

I confronted Chief Trachta after the hearing for wasting the Commonwealth's resources in what really is a "he said, she said" harassment. He told me police officers file harassment charges all the time based solely on the bare allegations made by the victim, with no corroborating evidence. That is nonsense, and is in fact contrary to police policy. But Trachta, I soon learned, isn't interested in listening to anyone but himself.

He also discounted what the former business owner had to say as well, though she did not get to say much. It's hard to talk with Trachta constantly interrupting. I eventually walked out, but not until I told him that his department did a real disservice to the community. I also told the chief that I doubt Rosie will appeal, but will encourage her to do so, and if she does, will find her a real lawyer.

On Wednesday night, Lower Nazareth officials voted 3-2 against replacing a professional and accredited police department with a mess like Nazareth. Hopefully, they will think long and hard before making that mistake.

Matt Munsey is New NorCo Dem Chair

By a 76-63 vote, Matt Munsey defeated Walt Garvin this evening in the race for Northampton County Democratic Chair. I skipped the meeting at the courthouse, though it was open to the public, for a basketball game.

I believe these races are little more than ego trips, and that county parties are irrelevant to candidates who want to win. But according to one of my friends, they can hurt you with divisive primary races.

Lower Nazareth Decides To Keep Colonial Regional

(Top row, from Left to Right: Robert "Pappy" Kucsan; James Pennington; and crowd shot in which a developer hides his face. 
Middle row, from Left to Right: Solicitor Gary Asteak; Manager Timm Tenges; and Chair Eric "Rick" Nagle.
Bottom row:  Gerald Green; Martin Boucher; and "Back to the '80s" sign).

After seven months of uncertainty, Lower Nazareth Supervisors last night ended their threatened breakaway from the Colonial Regional Police Department. This decision came during a meeting at Lower Nazareth Elementary School, before an audience of about 170. Supervisors sat below two signs. One of them read, "Welcome to the Wonderful World of Lower Nazareth." The other, prepared by the third grade, read, "Back to the '80s."

Despite the signs, the Wonderful World of Lower Nazareth has decided not to go back to the '80s.

The Colonial Regional Police Force, first formed in 1995 as one of the area's first regional police departments, currently serves Hanover and Lower Nazareth Townships, as well as Bath Borough. But last year, Lower Nazareth rejected this year's $3.39 million proposed police budget. This operated as a notice of intent to withdraw in a year if the problems remain unresolved. If unable to come to terms by July 1, Lower Nazareth would have no choice but to go it alone, starting in January.

It looked like a long night was ahead. But before hearing from anyone in the audience, Supervisor James Pennington moved to rescind the notice of intent to withdraw and accept this year's police budget. Pennington had previously backed Nagle's stated desire to go it alone, if necessary, but had a change of heart.

Why?

After the meeting, he explained. Opening a folder, he showed sheet after sheet of pros and cons he was ticking off, both with respect to the regional force and a go-it-alone department. He said he kept going back and forth, but what really changed his mind is walking his dog, believe it or not, although it is not his dog who convinced him.

Pennington walks his dog twice a day, and during these jaunts, he speaks to a lot of residents. They were concerned about losing Colonial Regional. One of the neighbors he spoke to is former Northampton County Sheriff Jeff Hawbecker, who is also a former state trooper. Hawbecker started the process that led to Northampton County's Sheriff's department being one of just two departments statewide that are accredited..

To his credit, Pennington listened to what he was told, and took it to heart.

Pennington's motion was quickly seconded by Supervisor Martin Boucher, who has supported Colonial Regional from the start.

All this appeared to take Supervisor Robert "Pappy" Kuscan by surprise, and when he realized what was going on, he exploded.

"Do you realize we're going to have to raise taxes?" he exclaimed in a voice that needed no microphone. He went on to discuss the costs and then, referring to the audience, said, "These people don't know what's happening?"

"I think they do know what's going on," disagreed Boucher. "That's why they're here."

Kuscan continued to blow oil, discussing the merits of a police department with a station right by the municipal building.

"A station right next to the baseball field?" asked Boucher, referring to the large number of athletic fields next to the municipal building at which children play baseball, soccer and football.

"Absolutely!" thundered Kuscan.

"What, are you cRraZy?" asked Boucher.

At this point, Chairman Eric Nagle ended the exchange. It was getting argumentative, and worse, Kucsan was losing.  

Nagle then repeated the arguments he's been making all along. He acknowledged that he's on record as calling Colonial Regional a "great department" (he's actually on record as calling it the "best in the state"), but said the funding formula for the regional force is disadvantageous to Lower Nazareth residents, who pay more for police protection than their counterparts in Hanover and Bath.

He acknowledged that the budget increases are small, in the area of just 5%, but "that could be a 9 or 10% increase on us."

He concluded that for $250,000 less than what it is paying now, Lower Nazareth could have its own force.

Kucsan continued to blow oil, now claiming that Hanover and Bath get together and outvote them. "We have less township people and we're paying a lot more money than they are. ... That's not fair."

But Boucher countered that, if anything, Lower Nazareth is ahead of the others. Lower Nazareth pays 35% of the budget, but receives 37% of the service. He added that a solo police department would actually end up being more expensive.

Supervisor Gerald Green voted to join Pennington and Boucher in rescinding the notice of intent to withdraw and accepting this year's budget. Kucsan and Nagle voted No.

The room burst into applause, erasing any doubt about where they stood on this issue.

Though he voted against Nagle, Green defended him to the audience, arguing that Nagle is motivated by the "best interests of the township" and "did his homework."

Very classy. Maybe Lower Nazareth really is a wonderful world.

Colonial Chief Roy Seiple was obviously happy, and addressed the Board and the audience. "Some of you maybe I've arrested. Sorry for that," he joked. He thanked Supervisors for looking at the police study objectively and making the "correct" decision.

Hanover Township Manager Jay Finnigan was there, and after the meeting, had this comment: "I believe the Board of Supervisors in Lower Nazareth Township took the appropriate action in supporting one of the strongest police forces in the Lehigh Valley. The officers provide all municipalities outstanding service committed to the residents in each municipality."

Molovinsky Makes It Official

Photo courtesy of Michael Molovinsky

Michael Molovinsky formally announced his candidacy yesterday for State Representative. Although I was unable to attend his announcement at Wehr's Dam, he has forwarded his remarks. He also tells me he is very close to have the requisite signatures needed to achieve ballot access.

I am formally announcing my candidacy as an independent for State Representative, in the 183rd District. Harrisburg is broken. It doesn't matter if Republicans or Democrats are in charge, it's broke either way. Both sides are paralyzed, pushing yesterday's ideas, and pandering to special interests. One revenue stream after another; Lotteries, casinos, fracking, it's never enough for Harrisburg. There is enough revenue, there are enough taxes, what they need are new priorities, ethics and integrity.

I'm an independent, long time advocate, who wants to bring my tenacity to work in Harrisburg, for the residents of the 183rd, and the entire Lehigh Valley. Because it's not enough to just campaign, and there's an effort under way to demolish Wehr Dam, I will do everything I can to save it. Children and their parents should be able to continue to enjoy the magic and history of the Covered Bridge Park.

My campaign can be followed on Mr. Molovinsky Goes To Harrisburg, an open facebook page.

MIchael Molovinsky

Yond Munsey has a Lean and Hungry Look

Whether it's Democrats or Republicans, Lehigh or Northampton County, I don't think county parties have much to do with getting anyone elected. At one time, when there were all kinds of patronage jobs to hand out like candy, local parties may have made a difference. But these days, they are a relic of times past. No serious candidate relies on his party, and builds his own organization if he wants to get elected. Though the people on the inside of a local party are really little more than a sewing circle, they think they are Kingmakers. I've told you about the wars going on in Northampton County, where the Ronnie DelWackos want to take over the local GOP. Or in Lehigh County, where Wayne Woodman thought he ruled. The latest rumbles are among Northampton County Dems. Some inside this little clique have managed to delude themselves into thinking that party boss Walt Garvin lost the most recent county elections, and not the candidates who actually ran. So they want to dump him, and they're intent on electing the King of the Easton Democrats, Matt Munsey.

If it's Walt Garvin's fault that Democrats failed to turn out in the county, then it's Matt Musey's fault that Democrats failed to turn out in Easton. But Munsey wants the top spot, and some of Garvin's supporters have abandoned ship.

Munsey is originally from Virginia and came here to work the Obama campaign. Then he just stayed. He does not represent the typical Northampton County Democrat, but is an Obamaphile who is pushing the left side of the Democratic party.

And he's a schemer. He denies this, but some are convinced that he persuaded Joe Capozzolo to run for state senate, knowing that this would guarantee Mark Aurand's victory. You see, Aurand got involved in politics because of Obama, too.

Ever talk to him on the phone? I have, and there are ten second pauses before he answers any question. You can actually hear the wheels spinning.

Yond Munsey has lean and hungry look;
He thinks too much: such men are dangerous.

In his effort to remodel the Northampton County Democratic party in the image of Obama, he has actually taken it upon himself to call Democratic committee candidates and instruct them not to run, even in races where they are unopposed.

We'll have no democracy here.

Don't believe me. Maybe you'll believe the Wilson Borough police (see report here). A Democratic committee candidate was running unopposed,, and Munsey was trying to talk her out of it. He called her repeatedly, after she told him to stop. Then he came without invitation to her home ... on a Sunday night ... at 9 pm. He would later tell police he was merely inviting this woman to different events, but that's not the way she remembers it.

So the Dems have one ego trip running against another. Name your poison.

Marcia Hahn To Host Vet Expo on Friday

In view of what is going on with our veterans, I thought I'd share this with you. I realize Hahn is running for re-election, and is using taxpayer resources, but I think we need more of these. I suspect her opponent, Leslie Altieri, would want this held.

Bethlehem Kids Bring New Life to Library Garden

Though there's a garden right behind the Bethlehem Area Public Library, it has been neglected in recent years. It was once maintained by Musikfest volunteers, but that stopped when the festival stopped using Payrow Plaza as one of its venues. Fortunately, Girl Scout Troop 810, under the guidance of Troop Leader Pat Scipioni, has breathed new life into the old garden. In addition to weeding the garden, scouts have planted Echinacea, daisies, speedwell and salvia, along with other plants. But that's just the start. During a recent Library Family Fun Night, over 60 children tried out their own green thumbs, planting marigolds around the perimeter.

Outreach librarian Edana Hay started things off by reading two books, Waiting for Wings and My Garden. In addition, kids had an opportunity to make their own lady bug magnet and a bee hummer, with the help of girl scouts Madeline Hausmann, Emma Sensale and Alessandra Scipioni. But the garden beckoned, and both kids and parents planted marigolds and left a sea shell by each so they would know which flower is theirs.

Anabelle Hammons dug all the way to China.

Twins Nareh and Nazeh Tahmassian were more focused on packing the dirt down around their flowers.

Alex Younnes was the inspector.

Northampton County Welcomes 34 New Citizens

34 people fro 21 countries take the oath of allegiance to the United States

Thirty-four people from 21 different countries waited anxiously inside Northampton County's ceremonial courtroom on June 10. Though the Celtic harp music of Carol Thompson was soothing, some of them have had less than ideal relationships in their own countries of origin. But when Judge Emil Giordano walked into the courtroom, the first thing he did was call them "my fellow Americans."  Whether they were originally from Viet Nam or Russia, they are American citizens now. They were naturalized during a stirring ceremony that included a presentation of the colors by the American Legion, a terrific rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Wilson Borough vocalist Leah Kun, and even awards to grade school students who participated in a "My Favorite Place in America Contest."

Liberian native Betty Gaye waves a small American flag. 

When Liberian native Betty Tie Gaye was called the receive her papers, she stood bewildered. Then Judge Giordano took a few steps forward to welcome her into not just the well of the court, but into the giant melting pot known as America. He had good reason. He showed pictures of his father and grandfather, who came to this country from Italy in 1956, looking for a better life. "How brave these people were coming here and not knowing anyone, just like you."

Judge Giordano told these new citizens that his parents met while taking English classes. Though his father has passed away, he invited his mother to the ceremony and introduced his mother. He joked that Naturalization Court is the only time when everyone is happy after it's all over. He encouraged them to keep their cultural traditions. "We bring the best of each culture together," he said.

Rebecca Gelles, with the Daughters of the American Revolution, handed out flags and reminded them all to vote. "Voting is your absolute right and obligation as an American citizen," she said.

Easton Attorney Bill Murphy supported Father Deogratias Rwegasira's quest for citizenship. Originally from Tanzania, Fr. Deogratias is the Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Church in Easton.

Bethlehem resident Marco Lu, who arrived from China 17 years ago, poses with wife Anna, daughter Katie and son Bryan.

New citizen Parmjut Kaur, who arrived from India 15 years ago, with her father, Duman. 

The tall and the small. Dionisia Arienda, who arrived from the Philippines eight years ago, poses with Judge Giordano.

Elizabeth Morales, from Our Lady of Perpetual Help, won an award from the Bar Association for a drawing of "My Favorite Place in America." St. Jane Frances de Chantal cleaned up with three awards to Joseph Karam, Alexandria Nehme and Caelan LaChance.