The LuLac Edition #1061, Jan. 3rd, 2010

PHOTO INDEX: LUZERNE COUNTY CONTROLLER DESIGNATE WALTER GRIFFITH, NEW WILKES BARRE COUNCIL HEAD BILL BARRETT, WALTER GRIFFITH'S TEAM FROM THE CONTROLLER'S OFFICE, GOP COUNTY CHAIR TERRY CASEY, ATTORNEY RICHARD HUGHES AND ATTORNEY RUTH HUGHES.

WALTER'S NIGHT

When Walter Griffith held his campaign rallies as a Republican for Luzerne County Controller, he had a hard core of 50 loyalists who showed up at the event. Last night more than 125 people turned out for a combination "thank you/inaugural" bash for the South Wilkes Barre businessman. As I entered the packed ballroom, my first words to Walter were, "Nothing succeeds like success huh?" Griffith battled it out in the spring turning back a crowded primary field and then went on to win the general election besting a heavily favored Democrat and a feisty Independent candidate. Last night's gathering was the culmination of a long journey that is by no means over. Before I even could get a drink for Mrs. LuLac Walter was already talking policy to me and the common sense strategy he wants to bring to the salary board. He made the point that the county needs to cut items from the budget, not people. At the event, Griffith spoke briefly and introduced his team in the Controller's office. Some new people but many long time professionals with the office making the point that not all county workers are people who cut corners. The event was filled with fun, music, dancing, good food and if you caught him at the right moment, a dissertation from the tax payer advocate turned elected official on what he will do in the next four years. Strap yourselves in folks because this is going to be one hell of a ride!

BARRETT TO HEAD COUNCIL

Wilkes Barre City Council is set to reorganize this week. Veteran councilman and former city police chief Bill Barrett is expected to be elected chairman of council, and Rick Cronauer will be vice chairman. They replace Chairman Tony Thomas Jr. and Vice Chairwoman Kathy Kane, who each served one year in the top council posts. Council will meet 5 p.m. Monday to elect officers and set meeting dates for 2010.