The LuLac Edition #2400, April 15th, 2013

LULAC AT 2400 (Photo 2400 Major).

 Today we embark on our 2400th Edition of the LuLac Political Letter. Each edition is not some little blurb or link to a story already reported. LuLac provides thoughtful analysis of what is going on in politics and pop culture. We also take care to create our own commentary and pride ourselves on the fact that 85% of our content is original. 
We continue to edit comments because we believe that even though everyone has an opinion, LuLac doesn’t necessarily have to share it with the world. 
As we continue this little adventure, (if we ever stop, we'll tell you why) we thank you for comments, your participation by reading and accessing us every day. As long as you are accessing us, we’ll be here every day commenting on Politics and Pop Culture. 
As the photo above indicates…full speed ahead.  

BOSTON 

The tragedy in Boston today amplifies the fact that any event in America can be marred by an unthinkable event. One of the dead is an 8 year old child. The violence cowardly individuals who hide behind bombs knows no boundaries. 
We should mourn the dead, care for the injured, and then punish those responsible if found with the full weight of justice. 
After that….we continue. That’s how we overcome.

Walter Griffith and this blog editor. (Photo: LuLac archives). 

GRIFFITH IN FOR 2ND TERM 

Walter L. Griffith, Jr. announces candidacy for a second term as Luzerne County Controller. Dear County-Wide Neighbors and Friends: I hereby announce that I shall be seeking a second term as your Luzerne County Controller. 
When I announced in 2009 that I was going to be a candidate for the office of county controller, I made a promise to all taxpayers that I would represent their best interests as an independent monitor of the county’s fiscal activities. I also promised, when need be, to challenge government officials’ funding proposals, to share questionable activities publically and to complete audits in a timely manner in order to maintain the integrity of the county’s revenue and disbursement processes. 
You, the citizens of Luzerne County, spoke “loud and clear” in 2009 that you wanted an independent and candid overseer as Luzerne County Controller and elected me to work for you for the next four years. 
The results of your confidence have been noteworthy! In regard to monetary matters in general, accountability has been markedly improved. Specifically, overpayment of contracts have been curtailed, a policy for the fueling of the county fleet of vehicles has been instituted, and employees being paid double for services provided has ceased. 
As I undertake this election initiative and thereby seek your ongoing trust and support to continue as Luzerne County Controller, please be responsive to requests for your signatures in support of my May 2013 candidacy, and to the extent you are able, please contribute to my campaign fund (details to be announced) in order for me to address all the requirements and expectations of the election process for me to remain in your service. 
I am so very proud to have been given the opportunity to represent you, the residents of Luzerne County, during this four year term and look forward to your expressed confidence in me this May to remain your Luzerne County Controller. 
Respectfully and appreciatively, 
WALTER L. GRIFFITH, Jr.

This blog editor with Michael Giamber. (Photo: LuLac archives). 

GIAMBER ANNOUNCES FOR COUNTY COUNCIL 

Saw this item in the Times Leader the other day and quite frankly was happy to see it. 
Fairmount Township resident Michael S. Giamber has announced his candidacy for Luzerne County Council. 
A Democrat, Giamber said he spends most of his time as a citizen-activist and proponent for the county’s home rule government. “If given the opportunity to serve, I will focus my efforts on tax control and economic development,” said Giamber, who lives near Ricketts Glen State Park. 
Giamber, 59, was chairman of the Friends of Home Rule political action committee that pushed for adoption of home rule and said he remains committed to the success of the charter and the concept of self-governance. He believes home rule is a better form of government, he said, “with the right leadership.” “My goal is to devote full time to the position of part-time councilman,” said Giamber. “I pledge not to raise property taxes until I am completely satisfied the county has done all it can to eliminate wasteful spending and inefficient practices.” 
He plans to develop and propose policies that “cultivate an environment geared towards restarting Luzerne County’s economic engine, creating jobs and encouraging residential and commercial growth,” he said. 
Born and raised in Pittston, Giamber graduated from St. John the Evangelist High School and received a bachelor’s degree in business management from National-Louis University, Chicago. He is retired from the federal government in Washington, D.C., where he managed a diverse staff at six Department of Defense Naval installations, including the Bethesda Naval Hospital, and oversaw facility operations at the world-class National Gallery of Art.