Sights on Pennsylvania

The Real Heroes in America

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 05:01:00 +0000

Nancy Pelosi and the rest of her supporters don't hold a candle to these American Heroes.

One of the Biggest Alpha Hotels on The Planet

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:55:00 +0000

Frank Mocks Health Reform Protesters, Bachmann

Alpha Hotel Rep. Barney Frank took a swipe at Rep. Michele Bachmann for organizing a rally to protest the Democrats' health care plan.

Democracy or Mockery???

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:40:00 +0000

MoveOn Threatens to Push Primary Opponents to Dems Voting Against Health Plan

Moveon.org has reportedly raised $3,578,117 in contributions to fund primary challenges against 'any Democratic senator who blocks an up-or-down vote on health care reform with a public option,' according to an e-mail sent to group members on Thursday.

Has Obama Been Disingenuous With America

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:37:00 +0000

FOXNews.com
- November 06, 2009
AMA's Endorsement of House Health Care Bill Sparks Internal Uprising

Some AMA members are outraged that the group's trustees made the endorsement without the formal approval of the organization's House of Delegates.

Elected Officials- The Public Said NO!

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:04:00 +0000

FBI questioned former stadium authority chairman about Cordaro and concessions BY JOE MCDONALD (STAFF WRITER) Published: November 6, 2009 Times-Tribune

Lackawanna County agrees to keep prison vendor's public records secret and approves new contract By Charles Schillinger (Staff Writer) Published: November 7, 2009 Times-Tribune

Election results in question after voting machine glitch discovered BY BORYS KRAWCZENIUK (STAFF WRITER) Published: November 6, 2009 Scranton Times

Didn't the public makes its point correctly on Tuesday??

LaGrotta claims innocence in scandal (Bonusgate)The book is Mr. LaGrotta's description of what happens when power, ambition, arrogance and poor choices collide in a politically charged capital city.

And to those who say Republican wins in this area were a fluke

Republican wins may mark big change in Westmoreland County By Rich Cholodofsky Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

BTW,,pssstt...look for Bonusgate indictments anyday now and look for quite a few...not only R's ....

More Mellow Arrogance And Entitlement

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:57:00 +0000

Times Tribune Photo
While discussing certain politicians with a former Hazleton Area School Board member I was searching for the right description of their arrogant actions. Where is Steven Segal when you need him?

One local council member complained when he found out that he was losing his health insurance paid for by taxpayers including those that don't have health insurance. Term- Just More Entitlement

A state legislator will not listen to you when you talk to him. He already "knows everything" and WILL TELL YOU that even though you are the person with the degree in the area of knowledge his four year political science degree makes him an authority on everything. Term- Narcissistic Entitlement

A senator can pay himself an exhorbitant amount of rent and dismisses the situation as "No harm, No foul." In today's Times Tribune BORYS KRAWCZENIUK sheds light on Senator Mellow's campaign practice to routinely write checks to "cash".

Over the past nine years, state Senate Minority Leader Robert J. Mellow's chief campaign committee paid more than $188,000 in checks made out to "cash," without disclosing who received the money and, in many cases, exactly what the money was used for - despite a state election law that specifically calls for complete disclosure.

"The payments to cash" - an issue not unique to the Archbald Democrat, although his committee has issued by far the most checks to "cash" of any committee statewide - raise questions about the state's ability and interest in enforcing the state campaign finance law, as well as in whose pockets contributions ultimately wind up.

The cavalier attitude on the part of the Department of State as well as his campaign workers just demonstrates the type of insulation that politicians feel they have in the power of incumbency.

SOP is not surprised at the questionable ethics involved in these situations. There are no shocking revelations here. What is missing are core family values taught at an early age.

How many times did our parents tell us our actions are wrong? Their observations didn't mean, as children, we need to go to jail or be arrested.(Even Ciavarella found that out the hard way.) It just meant we needed to correct our behaviors.

Mellow's answer to his rental circumstances was "I did nothing wrong." When Todd Eachus is asked about Bonusgate he keeps telling people he "did nothing wrong" despite court filings that prove otherwise.

Power corrupts absolutely. We use the term power broker. The real power brokers are the voters but they just don't get it.

According to Rasmussen Reportsthe latest national telephone survey shows that 83% now view government ethics and corruption as very important, placing it just ahead of the economy on a list of 10 key electoral issues regularly tracked..

This is the first time since October 2007 that voters have rated ethics and corruption as more important than the economy. Voters viewed the two issues evenly in November and December 2007 before placing a higher priority on the economy starting in January 2008.

Last month, 86% of voters said economic issues were very important while 80% saw government ethics that way.

The new findings come at a time when 43% of voters say the president is doing a poor job addressing government ethics and reducing corruption, up five points from early September and the highest level measured since he took office. Forty percent (40%) now give the president good or excellent ratings on his handling of the issue.

Make sure you go the polls this coming Tuesday and exercise your right to rid corruption. SOP is not surprised by this statement in the Rasmussen Report. While Republicans and voters not affiliated with either party rank ethics and corruption as the most important issue, Democrats put health care at the top of the list.

Health care is an important issue but you won't get the right bill with the right provisions if you don't deal with ethics and corruption. Remember that promise Obama made regarding lobbyists in November, 2007, "lobbyists won't find a job in my White House". It didn't take much time for his rule to reach reality for him to break that promise. He changed the name from White House to Open House with noted celebreties and lobbyists given access.

It is no wonder that politicians like Eachus and Mellow snub their noses at the constituency. Power equals privilege. Tuesday teach politicians that the privilege only starts if the voters allow it.

Are the Democrats Really Serious????

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:15:00 +0000

Tucked away in the Healthcare Reform bill is a little diamond for trial lawywers who make a living suing healthcare professionals. Nancy Pelosi "blew" a kiss to trial lawyers by inserting language that would prevent states from enacting tort reform.

Section 2531, entitled “Medical Liability Alternatives,” establishes an incentive program for states to adopt and implement alternatives to medical liability litigation. [But]…… a state is not eligible for the incentive payments if that state puts a law on the books that limits attorneys’ fees or imposes caps on damages.

That language is in the bill despite what the Washington Post had to say on the matter.

“Lawmakers could save as much as $54 billion over the next decade by imposing an array of new limits on medical malpractice lawsuits, congressional budget analysts said today — a substantial sum that could help cover the cost of President Obama’s overhaul of the nation’s health system. New research shows that legal reforms would not only lower malpractice insurance premiums for medical providers, but would also spur providers to save money by ordering fewer tests and procedures aimed primarily at defending their decisions in court, Douglas Elmendorf, director of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, wrote in a letter to Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah).”

What's all the fuss about anyway? According to this article on ABCnews.com her healthcare REFORM bill it is estimated that only 2% of those under 65 would sign up for a public option.

The underwhelming statistic is raising questions about whether the government plan will be the iron-fisted competitor that private insurers warn will shut them down or a niche operator that becomes a haven for patients with health insurance horror stories.

Some experts are wondering if lawmakers have wasted too much time arguing about the public plan, giving short shrift to basics such as ensuring that new coverage will be affordable.

"The public option is a significant issue, but its place in the debate is completely out of proportion to its actual importance to consumers," said Drew Altman, president of the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation. "It has sucked all the oxygen out of the room and diverted attention from bread-and-butter consumer issues, such as affordable coverage and comprehensive benefits."

McClellan calls Gadinski's Accusations "Bogus"

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:40:00 +0000

That should have been the headline in today's Standard Speaker article about Hazleton Creek Properties.

In its latest "Chicken Little" attack on Hazleton Creek Properties efforts to rid our landscape of a mine scarred area a bogus claim of pH alteration is highlighted by Geologist Robert Gadinski. To the general public Gadinski's claims seem credible but trust me on this one, this report is nothing more than political hype as evidenced by the last sentence in the Standard Speaker article.

Bob, let's have a frank discussion on chemistry, soil pH, bicarbonates, salts..ohh you remeber this course don't you?

This information comes from the International Plant Nutrition Institute.

Seasonal variation in soil test results is real…and has been recognized by soil scientists for more than four decades. Sizeable fluctuations in soil test levels can occur seasonally (monthly) and are associated with changes in soil temperature and moisture, soil microbial activity, crop residue decomposition, clay mineralogy, and nutrient cycling. Shallow soil samples (0 to 2, or 0 to 4 in.) may be more susceptible to seasonal fluctuations in test results than samples collected from deeper depths.
How much variation can be expected across seasons, within a year?

Soil pH—can vary as much as ,U>0.5 to 1 pH units on poorly buffered soils, especially on the coarser textured soils. Soil pH is usually lower in dry periods and higher in wet conditions.

Extractable soil phosphorus—-may be more stable than soil pH and extractable potassium in the majority of soils. Under prolonged flooding, phosphorus associated with iron complexes can be released. When soils dry, phosphorus can be bound tightly in iron and aluminum complexes, which lowers availability to plants. Seasonal variation can be as much as 10 to 20 pounds per acre or 5 to 10 parts per million (ppm).

Extractable soil potassium—-can be affected by soil freezing and thawing, and wide variations in soil moisture. Under very dry conditions, and upon freezing, certain clay minerals can release potassium from their mineral structure. Upon re-wetting, the potassium may be bound in the clay structure. In some high clay soils, the seasonal variation can be as much as 20 to 50 pounds per acre, or 10 to 25 ppm. Older, more highly weathered soils, most often found in the southern states, may be less likely to show strong seasonal variations in extractable potassium levels. Yet, seasonal variation in extractable potassium in sandy soils can be large.

Extractable soil sulfate and nitrate—are affected by microbial activity. Release of ammonium and nitrate-nitrogen and sulfate-sulfur from organic matter slows in dry soils. Existing nitrate levels can decline when soils are saturated for extended periods, especially during warm weather. Unlike nitrate, sulfate-sulfur is not prone to atmospheric losses during saturated conditions. Soil nitrate and sulfate levels can vary more than two-fold seasonally.

One can also view this article from the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Seasonal Variability of Soil pH
Seasonal changes in soil moisture, temperature, microbial activity, and plant growth can cause soil pH to vary. The interaction of the above factors and their effect on pH are not entirely understood. The seasonal effect is a result of the loss, formation, or accretion of salts during the various times of the year (Thomas, 1996). Salt concentration fluctuates as the soil wets and dries. As the soil dries, salt concentration increases, soluble cations replace exchangeable hydronium (i.e., H30+) or aluminum ions, and the solution becomes more acid. Seasonal changes in temperature affect the solubility of carbon dioxide (CO2) in water and the solution acidity. Carbon dioxide is more soluble at cool temperatures and makes the soil more acid (carbonic acid). Conversely, CO2 is less soluble in warm seasons, but microbial respiration produces more CO2, so the net effect on pH is variable. Seasonal differences in the amount of carbonate and bicarbonate ions in solution result in variable pH.

"Everything Mr. Gadinski claimed here is erroneous, untrue and an absolute misrepresentation of the facts," McClellan said/

We could also go back to fourth grade science on sesonal variaton on water pH.

So, what does pH mean for water? Basically, the pH value determines whether water is hard or soft. The pH of pure water is 7. Gadinski is telling you that the pH of the water rose to 6.9. Well the next tenth of a rise is 7.

The normal range for pH in surface water systems is 6.5 to 8.5 and for groundwater systems 6 to 8.5.

Although the report mentions the presence of arsenic one must look at the original level in the first place.

What SUFFER and CAUSE are missing is the need to fill the darn hole in and now.

William Amesbury- High Maintenance Magistrate

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:56:00 +0000

In today's Times Leader there is a story about the cost of renting offices for magistrates in Luzerne County. While the story focused on a rental in Hazleton it failed to zero in on a candidate for Judge in Luzerne County. In fact the cost of this rental exceeded the one in Hazleton.

As if we didn't have enough with the juvenile scandal this article lists William Amesbury's office rental cost at $80,000.00 per year. To be fair Martin Kane was over $5,000.00 higher at $85,800.00 per year but look at the rest.

William Amesbury, $80,000;

• Martin Kane, $85,800;

• Fred Pierantoni, $12,000;

• Paul Roberts, $12,000;

• Andrew Barilla, $12,000;

• Joseph Carmody, $12,000;

• Joseph Halesey, $30,200;

• Donald Whittaker, $12,000;

• John Hasay, $27,432;

• Daniel O’Donnell, $27,000;

• Thomas Sharkey, $19,392;

• Gerald Feissner, $14,000;

• Ronald Swank, $21,000;

• Michael Dotzel, $32,000;

• Diana Malast, $15,800;

• James Tupper, $29,000

How do magistrates justify such a disparity? How can Amesbury make a plea to the people to vote for him as judge when he appears to forget about the voters when it comes to his own "digs"? He acknowledged the public’s faith in the judicial system has been severely tarnished and must be restored by making the government more open and transparent.

Bill, welcome to transparency. Amesbury has acknowledge accepting donations from people involved in the FBI corruption probe. He donated two of the three donations to charity. The third donation was from Kim Mericle, who is the wife of Robert Mericle. He said he took her donation because she has been a longtime friend of 35 years and she did not have any dealings with her husband’s business. Obviously Kim wasn't part of the probe but her husband pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal.

Mr. Amesbury, and to all the judicial candidates as well as those seeking retention, you should pay special attention to your Supreme Court justices. SOP is not alleging any kickbacks or paybacks on the parts of any candidate. However, it seems the message is still not resonating with all the candidates.

Ciavarella, who is awaiting trial on racketeering charges, broke the law by taking kickbacks from the operator of two for-profit juvenile detention centers and ignored court rules by failing to fully inform juveniles who appeared before him of their right to legal counsel, the court concluded in a unanimous nine-page opinion.

The violations were so egregious that even juveniles sentenced to other centers and those who had legal counsel deserve to have their records cleared, according to the court.

"Given the extent of the taint, this court simply cannot have confidence that any juvenile matter adjudicated by Ciavarella during this period was tried in a fair and impartial matter," the court wrote.

Keep your relationships clean. It is up to you to go the extra mile if you want the voters to begin the healing process towards trust in your judicial proceedings. Arrogance or a cavalier attitude toward the restoring process will only keep the wounds fresh and deep.

To be clear SOP is not a Tina Gartley fan although she will be a winner. Her close association to Commissioner MaryAnn Petrilla who, in our opinion, is getting a "free ride" in the Luzerne County probe, is not acceptable. Petrilla was Controller during that period and even the media seems to be gentle about her role.

Supreme Court Vacates Juvenile Convictions Back To 2003

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:08:00 +0000

Times Leader Photo
According to a Times Leader article out of Harrisburg Pennsylvania's Highest Court has vacated all of the juvenile cases heard before disgraced ex-Judge Mark Ciavarella since 2003. Its order also disallows retrial of all the cases but a handful.

In issuing the ruling, the high court said it agreed with Grim's assessment that Ciavarella had shown a "complete disregard for the constitutional rights of juveniles who appeared before him."

"We conclude that the record supports Judge Grim's determination that Ciavarella knew he was violating both the law and the procedural rules promulgated by this court applicable when adjudicating the merits of juvenile cases without the knowing, intelligent and voluntary waiver of counsel by the juveniles," the court wrote.

Grim had also recommended that Luzerne County District Attorney's office be barred from retrying all but a handful of cases based on the double jeopardy statute, a constitutional prohibition against trying a person twice for the same crime. Grim based that recommendation on his finding that Ciavarella engaged in intentional conduct meant to deprive juveniles of their rights. That triggered the double jeopardy statute, he said.

The Supreme Court agreed with Grim that the vast majority of cases cannot be retried, but declined to adopt Grim's reasoning regarding the double jeopardy statute. The court instead said it was granting that relief solely "in the interest of justice."

SOP believes this order is far reaching and Judges in Pennsylvania should take note. In reading the court's order it is an indictment of actions by a judge that would introduce an element of prejudice by a judge.

The transcripts reveal a disturbing lack of fundamental process, inimical to any system of justice, and made even more grievous since these matters involved juveniles.

During the hearing conducted by President Judge Platt in Joseph v. The Scranton Times, 19 MM 2009, Ciavarella admitted under oath that he had received payments from Robert Powell, a co-owner of the PA Child Care and Western PA Child Care facilities, and from Robert K. Mericle, the developer who constructed the juvenile facilities, during the period of time that Ciavarella was presiding over juvenile matters in Luzerne County. It is a matter of record that Ciavarella routinely committed juveniles to one or another of these facilities. It is also a matter of record that Ciavarella failed to disclose his ties to Powell, much less the financial benefits he received in connection with the facilities to which he routinely committed Luzerne County juveniles. Ciavarella’s admission that he received these payments, and that he failed to disclose his financial interests arising from the development of the juvenile facilities, thoroughly undermines the integrity of all juvenile proceedings before Ciavarella. Whether or not a juvenile was represented by counsel, and whether or not a juvenile was committed to one of the facilities which secretly funneled money to Ciavarella and Conahan, this Court cannot have any confidence that Ciavarella decided any Luzerne County juvenile case fairly and impartially while he labored under the
specter of his self-interested dealings with the facilities.

At a federal hearing yesterday Mark Ciavarella had "No comment." FINALLY!

Ordinance 97-9 City of Hazleton

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:46:00 +0000

Here is the wording of the City of Hazleton's Ordinance pertaining to health insurance for City Council passed March 13, 1997 but returned unsigned by Michael P. Marsicano, Mayor.

WHEREAS, pursuant to existing labor contracts, the City of Hazleton provides health and life insurance benefits to employees of the City of Hazleton; and

WHEREAS, in the past, the City of Hazleton has provided members of City Council with health and life insurance benefits comparable to those benefits provided for employees of the City of Hazleton, pursuant to Budget Ordinance; and

WHEREAS, in 1996, the Administration of the City of Hazleton, discontinued providing health and life insurance benefits to members of City Council;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City of Hazleton, by and through Hazleton City Council that newly elected members of the Council of the City of Hazleton for the year 1998 will be provided health and life insurance benefits from the City of Hazleton, comparable to those benefits given to employees of the City of Hazleton.

ADOPTED BY COUNCIL this 13th day of March, 1997

It is signed by Phil Andras, Council President and attested to by the City Clerk. Nowhere in that document does it state hereinafter or similar wording.

Why Council Members would try to complain to the community that they had their health benefits taken from them is beyond comprehension. According to this document they should not have received any benefit in the first place. The question remains on whether they will be required to pay the City back.

Jack Panella- Where Were You When We Needed You?

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:48:00 +0000

Press Release from Republican Party of Pennsylvania:

October 28, 2009 Contact: Michael Barley
For Immediate Release (717) 234-4901

PA GOP: Jack Panella Ignored Luzerne County Judicial Misconduct Complaint

HARRISBURG – Republican Party of Pennsylvania Executive Director Luke Bernstein and Spokesman Michael Barley attended a press conference hosted by Luzerne County Republican Chairman Terry Casey to recount Jack Panella’s ties to the Luzerne County “Cash for Kids” judicial scandal.

“Jack Panella had an opportunity to stop Pennsylvania children from being harmed by corrupt judges in Luzerne County and he chose not to,” Bernstein said. “Panella was a member of the Judicial Conduct Board in 2006 when a complaint was filed against former Luzerne County Judge Michael Conahan and Panella and the Board chose not charge this corrupt judge. Those are the facts and they are indisputable!

“As a native of Luzerne County, I am outraged that Jack Panella and the Judicial Conduct Board had an opportunity to put an end to this scandal, but instead chose to ignore our children who were being unfairly punished in this ‘Cash for Kids’ scandal.”

According to the Judicial Conduct Board’s Mission Statement, “The Board investigates every allegation made against a Pennsylvania judge. Each complaint that is filed with the Board is thoroughly reviewed and analyzed by the staff as well as the twelve Board members. This procedure is an essential safeguard in the integrity of and public confidence in the judicial process.” (Pennsylvania Judicial Conduct Board Web Site, http://www.judicialconductboardofpa.org/MissionStatement.html, Accessed 10/22/09)

Spokesman Michael Barley continued, “The Judicial Conduct Board’s Mission Statement leaves no doubt that Jack Panella saw the 2006 complaint that was filed against disgraced Luzerne County Judge Michael Conahan. If Panella didn’t see the complaint, then he wasn’t doing his job. Panella had an opportunity to protect innocent children in Luzerne County and he let down all of the Pennsylvanians who were counting on him to protect us from corrupt judges.

“Jack Panella failed Pennsylvania as the biggest case of judicial misconduct in our nation’s history was taking place right under his nose and now he wants a promotion he doesn’t deserve. I urge anyone concerned with real judicial reform to join me in voting for Judge Joan Orie Melvin for Supreme Court on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009.”

Maybe my buddy Gort will rethink his assessment.

Tom Gabos Please Explain Your Income And Residency

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:18:00 +0000

According to documents on file at Hazleton City Hall Gabos Electric aka succesful businessman Tom Gabos and Peach Entrprises aka succesful businessman Tom Gabos have remitted a total of $3.00 to the City of Hazleton as mercantile tax since 2003.

In Gort's interview with Mayor Barletta last December the Mayor indicated a need to go after businesses that do not pay their mercantile tax.

In a search of the Luzerne County Courthouse Recorder of Deeds Office records indicate that Tom Gabos and his wife, Gale Zelenack, filed a deed for the purchase of their building located 105-107 East Broad Street. The deed was prepared by John P. Rodgers, Esquire and dated May 14, 2008.

The records also show a mortgage for the same property between Gabos and his wife, Gale, with the First National Bank of Pennsylvania with an address of One FNB Blvd, Hermitage, PA. 16148. The date of the mortgage is May 14, 2008. Interestingly, Tom Gabos and his wife, Gale M. Zelenack list their mailing address as 14 Airport Road Hazleton, PA. 18202. In the body of the mortgage Thomas S. Gabos lists his address as 14 Airport Road, Hazleton, PA. 18202 which is actually located in Sugarloaf Township and Gale M. Zelenack lists her address as 107 Fox Hollow Drive, Drums, Pa. 18222. According to other records Gale M. Zelenack sold her home located at the Drums address on February 9, 2007.

The amount of the mortgage was $90,000.00.

There is an Assignment of Rents document dated May 14, 2008 between Gabos, Zelenack, and FNBP listing the same addresses of 14 Airport Road Hazleton, PA. 18202 and 107 Fox Hollow Drive, Drums, Pa. 18222.

On the deed Thomas S. Gabos and Gale M. Zelenack list their address as 907 Lincoln Street, Hazleton, PA. 18201.

On July 6, 2006 Grantor Thomas Gabos deeded his property located in Sugarloaf Township to Grantees Thomas Gabos and Gale Rae M. Zelenack for the sum of One dollar. In Book 3006 on page 177642 located in the Recorder of Deeds office the following is noted for Certificate of Residence. I hereby certify the the precise address of the Grantee(s) herein is: 14 Airport Road, Hazleton, PA. 18202. It is notarized by Ann Fagan, Sugarloaf Township, Luzerne County. The Grantees are Thomas Gabos and Gale Rae M. Zelenack.

Here's the questions for you Thomas. Did you live outside of Hazleton for a period of time where you may have been required to resign your City Council seat over the residency requirement? Since you only paid $3.00 in mercantile tax what income did you produce to secure a mortgage for $90,000.00? Are you maintaining three properties, 907 Lincoln Street, Hazleton, 14 Airport Road, Hazleton, and 105-107 East Broad Street, Hazleton with that income?

The voters deserve an explanation in light of the fact that the Greater Hazleton Historical Society claims it paid Gabos Electrical, Inc. $3,371.00 for the year ended April 30, 2006.

For legal reasons it should also be noted that Thomas Gabos and Gale Rae Margaret Zelenack were issued a marriage license on November 23, 2008 and were married before District Magistrate Joseph Zola on December 10, 2008. References to Gale being his wife in this post indicate the present status not the status at the time of the deeds. The documents are attached to the deeds.

Note: There has been a correction made to this post.

From The Inbox- Is retaining Judge Thomas F. Burke, Jr. the right thing to do for Luzerne County?

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:26:00 +0000

Judge Burke Times Leader Photo
ELECTION 2009: Judge Thomas Burke: “I’m available to shake their hand, look them in the eye and guarantee them I will live up to my oath of office.”

Is retaining Judge Thomas F. Burke, Jr. the right thing to do for Luzerne County?

I am respectfully asking that you vote “YES” for Judge Tom Burke’s retention on November 3rd. Judicial retention is different than most elections. The candidate stands alone, against no one but him/herself… Judge Burke can stand alone on his record – his integrity, his understanding of the law, his judicial temperament and responsibility. Don’t take my word for it; ask an attorney who has appeared in his court, a juror who has served in his courtroom, a police officer or witness who has testified before him. I am sure you will be satisfied that now is the time when we most need a judge like Tom Burke.

I do not make this request lightly; I understand the importance of your vote on Tuesday, November 3rd. The current environment may encourage the general public to paint Tom Burke with the same brush. That would be unfair. Tom Burke has honestly served as a Judge, day in and day out, for the last ten years and I have never heard or read a word of criticism from anyone about how he does his job. He’s a great Judge who deserves to be retained on his own merit and not judged by the behavior of others.

Tom is not running a TV campaign, he has not asked anyone for a campaign contribution, nor has he accepted any contributions. His campaign is a grass roots campaign, a word of mouth campaign. So I would ask that you send an e-mail similar to this (or you can simply forward this e-mail) to those on your e-mail list so we can spread the word to vote “YES” for Judge Tom Burke’s retention on November 3rd. Ask those on your email list to send the message to those on their email lists, and so on. Person-to-person is the best way we have to communicate this message to Luzerne County voters.

60 Alleged Child Pimps Arrested

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:07:00 +0000

It looks like child pimps are all over the country, not just in Luzerne County.

Law enforcement authorities have recovered 52 children and arrested 60 pimps allegedly involved in child prostitution, the FBI announced Monday.

Gabos Received $15,219.00 For Health Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:17:00 +0000

If one calculates the amount of insurance paid over the time Tom Gabos served as Hazleton City Councilman the figure is about $15,219.00. As a councilman he spends about 48-60 hours PER YEAR at meetings.

Gabos is an electrical contractor. If he hired a part time electrician for 20 hours per week would he offer that person health insurance? Name one company that offers its part time workers health insurance. The amount of money paid could fund a code enforcement officer for a year.

As far as Gabos's claim of a huge deficit in the budget he forgets that City Council approves the budget, not the Mayor. If the figures were off its City Council's problem. They have the ability to revisit the budget anytime they see fit.

With the recent property reassessment in Luzerne County it will be nearly impossible for Hazleton to go bankrupt as the new tax rate is 1.4 mills. The statutory authority allows Hazleton as a third class city to tax up to 25 mills. His bankruptcy claim, as well as his followers, are opposition hype that lacks real substance. It is a typical election time scare tactic employed by a weak positioned official.

Gabos opposed the HCP project that brought $2 million into the City's coffers with another $2 million to come. That money allowed the hiring of nine(9) police officers. If Gabos had his way the City would be short $2 million dollars and minus 9 police officers. Some closet to hang your hat in.

Note: There has been a correction made to this article.

Zappala Name Comes Up In Casino News

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:31:00 +0000

It can mystify the mind when one expands reading the newspaper reports beyond this area. While spending time at Heinz Field to watch Brett Favre lose his first game this season an article that appeared in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette by Tracie Mauriello struck the inquisitive brain cells. -Zappalas hold posts at casino association

During the final days of state budget negotiations, a flurry of press releases was sent to media, letters were sent to lawmakers and radio ads were sent over airwaves, all advocating low tax rates and license fees for casino table games.

One statement threatened that four large casinos would sue the state if smaller ones were allowed to increase the number of slot machines at their locations.

The communications all emanated from The Pennsylvania Casino Association, which has been run for the last two years by former state Supreme Court Chief Justice Stephen A. Zappala Sr. and his daughter Michele Zappala Peck, who is running for Allegheny Common Pleas Court.

Although The Pennsylvania Casino Association incorporated in May 2007, it's been virtually invisible until this month even though it is in the hands of a powerful and prominent political family with ties to Harrisburg power brokers.

The article describes former Justice Zappala's role in the non profit association. It appears to make the case that his actions were not that much dissimilar to those of a lobbyist. Zappala's ties to Vincent Fumo are mentioned as an example of his connections that may be beneficial to gaming interests. Then it gets more interesting.

Chuck Hardy, who represents Pittsburgh's The Rivers casino on the association's three-member board, signed the 2007 and 2008 tax returns that give the association federal tax-exempt status. He said he was never involved in any discussion about keeping the Zappala name off public records.

Mr. Hardy -- who works for the Philadelphia law firm Sprague & Sprague and said he is counsel for Philadelphia's SugarHouse casino -- said the 990 tax forms were prepared by an accountant. He said he didn't believe Mr. Zappala needed to be included on the required listing of officers, directors, trustees and key employees because he wasn't "the kind of officer you needed to report."

IRS filing instructions, however, stipulate that executive directors are among those who must be listed along with officers who have voting rights and employees who control an organization's activities or finances.

For those that don't recall, Richard Sprague presided over former Judge Ann Lokuta's case. He also represents Robert Powell, key figure in the Luzerne County corruption scandal. Sprauge refused to recuse himself in the Lokuta proceedings.

Sprague also represented Powell and PA Child Care in a 2004 lawsuit against Luzerne County Controller Stephen L. Flood, over his opposition to the county's $58 million contract with PA Child Care.

In a filing by Lokuta she makes the following assertions.

"Judge Sprague and his law firm have committed years of representation to the task of protecting the interests of Powell, PA Childcare, and their associates, and keeping their activities from public scrutiny in the light of day," Lokuta's 133-page filing says. "Judge Sprague's control over the record in this matter afforded him the opportunity to continue to shield Powell, PA Childcare and their associates from disclosures that -- while supporting Lokuta's contentions and defenses -- would have exposed the illicit conduct in which Judge Sprague's clients were participants."

In case you didn't catch it, Richard Sprague is Chuck Hardy's boss. If you read the entire article you will discover that Richard Sprague is part-owner of the SugarHouse casino. What a tangled mess. The part that is intriguing is how small a world it is when the same names keep coming up over and over again in what should be unrealted issues.

"Mount Airy owner Lisa DeNaples is a member of the board along with Mr. Hardy and Mr. Hardy's boss, Richard A. Sprague, who is part-owner of SugarHouse and is a powerful Philadelphia lawyer who has represented prominent power brokers including Mr. Fumo.

Jonathan D. Silver contributed to this report. Tracie Mauriello can be reached at tmauriello@post-gazette.com or 717-787-2141. Follow her at www.twitter.com/pgpolitweets

Tom Gabos- If You Are Really Concerned About Police, Give Up Health Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:59:00 +0000

According to documents in Hazleton City Hall Councilman Tom Gabos has been receiving health insurance paid by the City of Hazleton despite owning two businesses, Peach Enterprises(aka Gabos Electric according to a media report) and Classic-Cade. His recent political commercial states he voted NO on the budget for Hazleton because it didn't fund enough for the police force. Forget that the budget DID fund a police force; that wasn't enough motivation for him despite his "reports" of prostitution.

Gabos should take a lesson from the Kansas City police force. In this KMBC.com report police in Kansas City, Kansas have agreed to take a pay cut to save jobs.

Tom Gabos, why didn't you agree to forgo health insurance paid by the citizens of Hazleton to help pay for more police? Don't tell us that the council pay is not enough; don't tell us that your electrician business is not enough; don't tell us that the part time work for the Greater Hazleton Historical Society is not enough; don' t tell us that Classic-Cade does not make enough; don't tell us that the full time job with the Hazleton Area School District is not enough. That is just plain wrong.

Tom, a lesson about business. There is a risk.. Are you asking the citizens of Hazleton to help in your risk of business by paying for your health insurance when others who start a business accept full risk?

Only you and one other council person receive health insurance paid by the citizens of Hazleton. Yet your political commercial chides two other council persons who DO NOT receive health insurance paid by the taxpayers. Wagging the dog won't fool everyone.

Are you double dipping when you ask the same set of taxpayers to fund your job on City Council and pay for your wages as a a maintenance person for the Hazleton Area School District? How many times are you going to reach into their pocket?

Tom Gabos- Who Is Lying????

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:45:00 +0000

Tomfoolery
In his latest political commercial Tom Gabos, running for re-election on Hazleton City Council, tries to turn the tide on his opponents by stating there are lies in their commercial.

His first response is that he didn't use his political influence to get himself a job in the Hazleton Area School District. He stated he worked for the district long before he got his job. Let's examine his statement.

Here is the agenda for the Hazleton Area School Board dated April 23, 2009.

Hazleton Area School District
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
6:30 P.M., Thursday, April 23, 2009

Page 12

Substitutes for Board Approval April 23, 2009

Substitutes - Maintenance Dept.
Gabos, Thomas

Next is the Agenda of the Hazleton Area School District for September 24, 2009

Hazleton Area School District
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
6:30 P.M., Thursday, September 24, 2009

Page 2

14- Recommend Board appoint the following maintenance positions:
(Salary as per Teamsters Agreement)
* Hazleton El/Middle School- Thomas Gabos

Tom, now let's be honest. Stating you were "working" for the HASD is not the same as being "employed" by the Hazleton Area School District. You are in the fourth year of your term. Seems the date of your employment is AFTER you were elected Councilman.

Tom's next claim is that he didn't vote against funding for the police department. He claims his vote against the budget was because it didn't provide for enough police.

Are you the same Tom Gabos who, back in August, asked the question "Where's promised dredge money?" The first sentence in your editorial states "Why do we have to lay off police?" Tom, you weren't paying attention during your term. You hired how many police??? Oh, you wouldn't know the answer to that because you weren't paying attention. Then you make the assertion, There are still fewer police in Hazleton than there were when Barletta took office.

Do you remember Councilwoman Graham's reply to your ridiculous questions?

You complain, Tom, that "there are fewer police in Hazleton than when Barletta took office" but you don't say where you have found the money to pay them. Do you not remember that the police were hired with federal money that expired after three years?

Then you answer your own question by stating the money for dredge was used to hire new police officers. No matter what the reason for the lack of enough new police officers hired with money from the dredge project.

The one charge mentioned in the commercial against you that you failed to address was your lack of solutions. Now we are back to running on your record. There is none. Your re-election bid is why you earned the title "Puxatawney Tom." You only come out every once in four years.

Eachus Feigns Concern For Fill

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:30:00 +0000

In an article written by Kent Jackson that appeared in today's Standard Speaker Todd Eachus tries to persuade the public that he has a genuine concern for fill material that is proposed for the Hazleton Creek pit reclamation project. He is having about as much success as Chicken Little.

Every politician says "I'll run on my record." Well, Todd here's one for you. You authored the budget and voted to decrease the Department of Environmental Protection's budget by 30% this year. That budget decrease takes it back to levels of thirteen years ago. DEP is integral in the Hazleton Creek project where you have been a vocal opponent of the project from the beginning. If you are so concerned, why as House Majority Leader, did you fail to protect their budget? There is a story about that but we will save it for another time.

"We're concerned about whether DCNR and DEP are really going to be able to do their jobs with the significant percentage cut to their budgets," Donald Welsh, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, said.

The amount budgeted for environmental programs, and the percentage decline from the prior year.

DEP total budget: $159 million, down 30.5%

- General government operations: $14.4 million, -26%

- Environmental program management: $32.7 million, -22%

- Environmental protection operations: $85 million, -17%

- Water infrastructure grants: $0, -100% (from $11.7 million

How do you square up with the voters that you are concerned about fill going into the Hazleton Creek project when you O.J. Simpsoned the budget for DEP? Eachus has been complaining about "TOXIC" material going into Hazleton Creek. Here is a link to a story that appeared in the Tuesday, August 1, 2006 edition of the Standard Speaker.
His scare tactic was called out then by Mayor Barletta, and he is once again being called out for his obstructionism.

Read the testimony by representatives of the Department of Environmental Resources about dredge and Bark Camp cited by Eachus in his article. Use the Find feature of your browser to locate the word "dredge." Eachus is disingenuous with his statements over Hazleton Creek because its owner is a supporter of Lou Barletta.

The real facts are that Todd Eachus is House Majority Leader. If he truly wanted to he could find the funds to finance a project that will place what type of fill he wants into that hole. Has he helped the City of Hazleton secure funding? Nada. Did Governor Rendell help the Hazleton Creek project? Oh yeah.

Let Todd Eachus stand on his record. How much in total has been secured for the citizens of Hazleton who you took a sworn oath to represent? What specific projects and funding went to the municipality known as the City of Hazleton secured by your efforts?

Why don't you accept this challenge? Mark McClellan is more than willing to test the soil in your back yard where your family lives and plays and compare it to the dredge used as fill. Accept his invitation. Let the public see the results. That invitation is germane to the next observation.

Eachus brought up the Bark Camp project. Here is what DEP had to say about that project.

In five years of monitoring and after more than 100,000 analyses, there were no significant organic or metal contaminants detected other than those present in the general area prior to the project's initiation.

The results are conclusive and positive: When used appropriately, this material is an extraordinarily valuable and effective tool in mine reclamation and in the remediation of acidic drainage from abandoned mines that pollute more than 2,000 miles of stream throughout the Commonwealth.

Eachus's degree is in political science, not thermomechanical analysis or geology. Nothing qualifies him to extend an opinion on this issue anymore than the First Amendment of the Constitution. While free speech allows him to speak his mind, he should respect the people in that field for their knowledge, research, and dedication.

Here is the definition of a carpetbagger- 2.An outsider, especially a politician, who presumptuously seeks a position or success in a new locality. Eachus was from northern Luzerne County graduating from Wilkes Barre's Coughlin High School before seeking office in Hazleton in 1996. He is here thirteen years but wants to taint the names of families who lived generations in Hazleton and employed generations in Hazleton. Polluting the minds of people is one area DEP does not cover.

Perzel Next To Visit Grand Jury- Maybe

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 01:46:00 +0000

As the saga of Bonusgate reached its 1,000th day the sun started to emerge from behind the cloud that only Democrats were going to be charged in the investigation. Its always good to have a friend or two on the inside. In the very near future look for action against the Republicans. But, a warning for the Democrats, the division looking into your irregularities did not pack up and go home. They are as active as ever.

The media reports trying to second guess Tom Corbett's investigation have all been unsubstantiated hype. AG Corbet has said and did give this investigation a high priority. But the public wants action. Its the old story about the young bull and the old bull on top of the hill. The young bull wants to hurry down the hill and have his way with but one. The old bull says take your time and we can have them all.

Today's announcement on Philly.com reveals the culmination of countless overtime hours spent on this investigation.

Prosecutors have offered Rep. John M. Perzel of Philadelphia, the former speaker of the Pennsylvania House, a chance to testify before the so-called Bonusgate grand jury in what lawyers say is a sign that criminal charges may soon be filed against him.

Perzel's former chief of staff, Brian Preski, and as many as 10 other current and former House Republican aides have received similar letters, according to lawyers with knowledge of the investigation.

Perzel, 59, could not be reached for comment yesterday. In the past he has said he did nothing improper with the state money that is at the center of the investigation.

The letters from prosecutors, received within the last two weeks, are the clearest indication yet that state Attorney General Tom Corbett, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, is contemplating criminal charges against members of his own party in the sweeping probe known as Bonusgate.

The letters from prosecutors in Corbett's office invite Perzel and the other recipients to testify Monday before the grand jury. The letters say such testimony would be voluntary and given without a grant of immunity.

Experts say such letters from state authorities are akin to the "target letters" that federal prosecutors often use to advise people that they are likely to face criminal charges.

If you are a fan of Bonusgate take this statement to the bank. Bonusgate will go on long after Tom Corbett becomes Governor of Pennsylvania. So, make some popcorn, order a Big Gulp, and enjoy the movie. What you have seen up to now have been the previews, no rating necessary.

Oh, and for those who ask why a conservative blogger would write about Republicans realize that as leaders we must face the music like everyone else. Public trust is the number one priority. If we demonstrate that we are committed to the taxpayer loyalty will follow.

Tom Gabos Has Hazleton Pay For His Healthcare

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 22:31:00 +0000

A firestorm erupted before last night's Hazleton City Council meeting. As the new City Administrator, Mary Ellen Leib, is pouring over Hazleton's expenditures it was discovered that Tom Gabos as well as one other council person is receiving health insurance paid by the City of Hazleton. It is legal for Mr. Gabos to receive health insurance according to an ordinance passed by City Council in 1997.

Why would a businessman burden the taxpayers with his health insurance cost when he only attends City Council meetings for about four hours per month? The cost of the insurance is $600.00 per month. If you do the math the taxpayers of the City of Hazleton are paying $150.00 per hour for a health insurance benefit. Why would a businessman who levies a mercantile tax on other businesses who must pay their own health insurance premiums ask those businesses to pay for his health insurance?

Its not an ethical violation but a question of his integrity. Is he in it for the money or the true interests of the taxpayers? He owns two businesses, gets paid to attend City Council meetings, has a full time position with the Hazleton Area School District, a part time job for his wife, a part time maintenance job with the Greater Hazleton Historical Society, and health insurance benefits paid for by the taxpayers of Hazleton.

In theses hard economic times that is just plain wrong. Let the voters decide.

Update Note: After a review of Ordinance 97-09 passed in 1997 it appears that the present members of Hazleton City Council are NOT entitled to healthcare benefits from the City of Hazleton. The wording of the Ordinance is quite clear that health insurance was only provided for the newly elected members of City Council for the year 1998. It makes no mention of the word "hereinafter."

Luzerne County Judge Race and Retention Interviews/Video

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:29:00 +0000

The Times Leader posted its candidate interviews conducted in October, 2009. In the interest to educate and pass on as much information as possible for the voters here are the links. I had the pleasure of meeting Judge Olszewski last evening. He is energetic and willing to pound the pavement to keep his seat. Will he keep his seat is another story where only election day will play it out.

Walter Griffith is included in this article so I posted his video here as well. I believe Griffith is going to win and be an excellent choice for Luzerne County Controller. But then again, this is a conservative blog, right Gort??

Judge Peter Paul Olszewski - Retention interview
Judge Tom Burke - Retention interview
Bill Amesbury - Candidate interview video
Richard Hughes - Candidate interview video
Tina Polachek Gartley - Candidate interview video
Walter Griffith - Candidate interview video
Bob Morgan - Candidate interview video
Wil Toole - Candidate interview video

Spinozza Latest Caught In Corruption Net

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:20:00 +0000

Times Leader Photo

According to a recent conversation FBI agents have purchased homes in the area. It definitely points to a rumor that the FBI won't be leaving anytime soon.

Their latest catch is Anthony Spinozza, a Hanover Area School Director charged with accepting a $5,000.00 bribe according to the Times Leader. You can read his plea agreement here.

Spinozza, 59, of Wilkes-Barre, has agreed to plead guilty to the charge and to resign from the board. Federal sentencing guidelines call for a sentence of 12 to 18 months, but Spinozza could be sentenced up to the maximum of 10 years.

Spinozza is the 18th person, and sixth area school official, to be charged in connection with the ongoing corruption probe in Luzerne County.

Puxatawney Tom Gabos

noreply@blogger.com (McGruff) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:26:00 +0000

If you think about it Tom Gabos waited three years and ten months before introducing his first piece of legislation before Hazleton City Council. He is like Puxatawney Phil. He peaks his head out once every four years to run for re-election. So witness the birth of Puxatawney Tom.