The LuLac Edition 302, Sept. 11th, 2007

PHOTO INDEX: FORMER MAYOR RUDY GIULIANI AND FORMER

GOVERNOR WILLIAM SCRANTON.

RUDY AT 911

From the "you can't win" department of politics, former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani was criticized for speaking at this year's 911 memorial service saying his participation was too political since he's running for President. In my view, Giuliani, who went to all the funerals of the 911 victims, who lived and breathed the disaster is being unfairly criticized. The 911 event event, for better or worse was a true part of his leadership and legacy, it is open to scrutiny. But the latest salvo against his participation is just petty and degrading to the office he held as well as his participation in the 911 event and recovery.

By tradition, only mayors of New York and governors of New York and New Jersey have been invited to speak each year at the 9/11 commemorations.
Still, many of the relatives were upset that former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who led the city through its darkest days, was invited to speak. They accused the Republican presidential candidate of trading on their tragedy for political gain.
So Giuliani kept it short, telling the gathering, "In the midst of our great grief and turmoil, we also witnessed uncompromising strength and resilience as a people." People wonder why Giuliani, a liberal on most social issues resonates with all GOP voters. His response to attend the ceremony, despite criticism shows him as a guy who won't take polls on an issue and operate from the gut. American voters, Democrats and Republicans alike, understand that and admire that in a leader or dare I say, a President.
Sen. Hillary Clinton, a Democrat who is also running for president, also attended the ceremony but did not speak.

A SCRANTON HONOR

Former Pennsylvania Gov. William W. Scranton will be the first community leader of Northeastern Pennsylvania to receive the Andrew J. McGowan Cornerstone Award at ceremonies set for Nov.18 at the Scranton Cultural Center.
The award recognizes a regional community leader who most reflects McGowan’s legacy of spirit, leadership and service and is presented by a collaborative group of more than 20 community organizations to whom the monsignor contributed his time.
“The selection of Governor Scranton as the first recipient of this award was unanimous by the entire collaborative group. Given the close relationship between Monsignor McGowan and Governor Scranton, we couldn’t have found anyone more deserving of this regional award,” said Ann Moskovitz, event co-chair.
“Governor Scranton’s work throughout the region as a resident, philanthropist, businessman, Congressman and Governor has provided both guidance and support for our overall growth and development.”
Sandy Insalaco, event co-chair, said it’s an honor that Scranton accepted the award.
“Probably best of all, the Governor knows and respects how much Monsignor McGowan did to regionalize the area. Our goal with this annual award is to continue building on Monsignor’s cornerstone of service and recognize those who serve with the same spirit and dedication,” he said.