Rated one of Pennsylvania's top blog/sites, the LuLac Political Letter delves into issues of politics on all levels (with special concentration on Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties: thus the name LULAC) and pop culture.
The LuLac Political Letter was also named Best Political Blog of the Year for 2014 by NEPA BLOGCON and most recently David Yonki was named Best Blogger of the year 2015 by the publication Diamond City.
Monday, October 31, 2016
The LuLac Edition #3336, October 31st, 2016
WHY THE SOUTH NEVER DISAPPOINTS
Richard Burr (Photo: Vocativ)
I feel for transplanted Northerners who have moved below the Mason Dixon line for jobs, weather, retirement or health. They are subjected to the abject stupidity and hatred of a bygone era. Senator Richard Burr quipped as he entered a gun shop that “nothing made me feel better” than seeing a magazine about rifles “with a picture of Hillary Clinton on the cover”. He later added that “I was a bit shocked at that-it didn’t have a Bull’s Eye on it”. He later said the magazine was endorsing candidates who were pro gun. But a few things here. 1. Rifles and their assailants KILLED John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Junior. 2. This man is a United States Senator. He has made a definite threat on the life of a Presidential candidate. At the very least he has put the thought in someone’s head. 3. This is the national Republican party folks. This is the same guy who has voted against every gun background check. I guess he likes to see five year old slaughtered before Christmas again. You disagree with them, call 'em criminal. You don’t like them, suggest killing them. Since last Friday there have been multiple calls for still another investigation into Hillary Clinton. Nothing on those e mails can match the threat this elected official made to a political opponent. So if you want the FBI to investigate something, this is easy. This stupid mean man set it out loud. Lock him up!
ABSENTEE BALLOTS ON THE WAY!
If you are concerned about absentee ballots, they are on the way. They are comprehensive and heavy. But the voting bureau has done a great job getting them out and together.
MEDIA MATTERS
WVIA TV CONGRESSIONAL DEBATES ALL THIS WEEK
WVIA TV logo (WVIA TV.org)
The 2016 WVIA Congressional Debates will broadcast live from the Sordoni High-Definition Theater at the WVIA Studios in Pittston, PA on Tuesday, November 1, Wednesday, Nov. 2, and Thursday, Nov. 3 starting at 7 p.m. each night on WVIA TV. The debates will also be simulcast live on WVIA FM and streamed live at wvia.org. The live debate for the 10th Congressional District between Congressman Tom Marino (R) and Michael Molesevich (D) will air Tuesday, Nov. 1, while the 17th Congressional District live debate between Congressman Matt Cartwright (D) and Matt Connolly (R) will be broadcast Wednesday, Nov. 2. Then on Thursday, Nov. 3 Congressman Lou Barletta (R), and Mike Marsicano (D) will debate live for the 11th Congressional District. The moderator for all 3 debates will be WVIA’s Larry Vojtko. Panelists for the debates include: Borys Krawczeniuk, Staff Writer, Scranton Times-Tribune, Dr Jean Harris, Professor, Political Science & Women's Studies, University of Scranton, Andy Mehalshick, WBRE Eyewittness News, Dr. Tom Baldino, Professor, Political Science Wilkes University, Bill O'Boyle, Staff Writer, Times Leader and more. Seating in the live audience for each debate is available and free, but very limited. Doors will open at 6:20pm. To make reservations call (570) 602-1150, or reserve your seats online: http://www.wvia.org/blogs/whats-going-around-wvia/2016-congressional-debates/ The 11th Congressional debate between Congressman Lou Barletta and Mike Marsicano is sold out.
(This is a 7 part series on the major issues in this Presidential election and where the candidates stand. The information is directly from each candidate’s website. The order of appearance will vary from week to week because we will use a coin toss to determine what candidate’s views will appear first).
THE ECONOMY
10-30-16
CLINTON
Despite the progress we’ve made in coming back from the Great Recession, we face a set of core challenges to building an economy that works for everyone—including a political system that is doing too little to help working Americans, an economic system that encourages too many corporations to favor short-term profits over long-term investments, and outdated workplace policies that aren’t meeting the needs of modern families.
AS PRESIDENT, HILLARY HAS A FIVE-POINT PLAN TO MEET THESE CHALLENGES:
•A 100-days jobs plan: Break through Washington gridlock to make the boldest investment in good-paying jobs since World War II. Hillary will fight to pass a plan in her first 100 days in office to invest in infrastructure, manufacturing, research and technology, clean energy, and small businesses. She will strengthen trade enforcement, and she’ll say no to trade deals like TPP that don’t meet a high enough bar of creating good-paying jobs. And she will make the U.S. the clean energy superpower of the world—with half a billion solar panels installed by the end of her first term and enough clean, renewable energy to power every home in America within 10 years of her taking office. •Make debt free college available to all Americans. Hillary will make college debt-free, and she’ll provide relief for Americans with existing debt by allowing them to refinance their student loans. •Rewrite the rules so that more companies share profits with employees—and fewer ship profits and jobs overseas. Hillary will reward companies that share profits and invest in their workers, and she will raise the minimum wage to a living wage. She will crack down on companies that shift profits overseas to avoid paying U.S. taxes, and she’ll make companies that export jobs give back the tax breaks they’ve received in America. She will defend existing Wall Street reform and push for new measures to strengthen it. •Make certain that corporations, the wealthy, and Wall Street pay their fair share.Hillary will pay for her economic priorities and avoid adding to the national debt by ensuring the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations pay their fair share. For example, she’ll fight for the Buffett Rule, close the carried interest loophole, and impose a new surcharge on multi-millionaires and billionaires. •Enact policies that meet the challenges families face in the 21st-century economy.Hillary will make it possible for parents to succeed at work and at home by updating outdated laws so they match how families work today. She will fight for equal pay and guarantee paid leave, two changes that are long overdue. And she will provide relief from the rising costs of necessities like child care and housing, while taking steps to provide Americans with greater retirement and health care security.
THE ECONOMY
10-30-16
TRUMP
Create a dynamic booming economy that will create 25 million new jobs over the next decade. For each 1 percent in added GDP growth, the economy adds 1.2 million jobs. Increasing growth by 1.5 percent would result in 18 million jobs (1.5 million times 1.2 million, multiplied by 10 years) above the projected current law job figures of 7 million, producing a total of 25 million new jobs for the American economy. Reform policies with a pro-growth tax plan, a new modern regulatory framework, an America-First trade policy, an unleashed American energy plan, and the “penny plan.” Boost growth to 3.5 percent per year on average, with the potential to reach a 4 percent growth rate. Read Donald J. Trump’s Plan to Create 25 Million Jobs, here. Read Mr. Trump's Remarks in Monessen, Pennsylvania, at the Detroit Economic Club, and at the New York Economic Club.
KEY ISSUES
•Over the last seven years, 14 million more people have left the labor force. •The lowest labor force participation rate since the 1970s. •1 in 5 American households do not have a single family member in the labor force. •23.7 million Americans in their prime-earning years [ages 25-54] are out of the labor force – an increase of 1.8 million over the last seven years. •Real GDP grew only 1.1% in the second quarter of this year. Over the last seven years, real GDP grew 2.1% the slowest seven-year period since at least the 1940s. •It’s the weakest so-called recovery since the Great Depression. •Hourly earnings and weakly earnings are lower today than they were in 1973. •The number of Americans on Food Stamps during Obama’s time in office has increased by more than 12 million. •2 million more Latinos are in poverty today than when President Obama took his oath of office less than eight years ago. •45% of African-American children under 6 are living in poverty. •1 in 6 American men between the ages of 18-34 are either in jail or out of work. •Student loan debt exceeds $1.3 trillion — nearly doubling under the Obama administration. •Since President Obama took office, the national debt has doubled. •U.S. trade deficit in goods reached nearly 800 billion dollars last year alone. •The U.S. homeownership rate fell to 62.9 percent in the second quarter – the lowest rate in 51 years.
CONTRAST WITH HILLARY CLINTON
•Hillary Clinton says she'll put her husband ‘in charge’ of the economy – which is half the job. [ABC News, May 15, 2016] •Hillary Clinton’s economic plans would send our economy into a tailspin: Whereas Trump will cut taxes and reduce anti-growth regulations, she plans massive new tax-and-spend policies, endless regulations and tight government control. oHer corporatist trade and immigration deals would eviscerate the U.S. middle class. Clinton’s policies are worse than current policies, which have already been evaluated as failures. The Federal Reserve has lowered its estimated growth rate to 1.8% per year through 2019 based on current policies. CBO expects only 2% growth per year for ten years.
Well we have heard about a possible October surprise from the accused rapist Julian Assange regarding Hillary Clinton’s e mails but no one could imagine that the FBI which closed the case now could reopen it 11 days before the election. But it did. It involves the e mails of Clinton but focus on the pervert Anthony Weiner’s actions and the reactions to them via e mail of his estranged wife Huma Abedin. Weiner was being investigated for sexting an underage girl. I mean you cannot make this stuff up. Here’s what you need to know. There are a lot of questions that are not answered at this point. The FBI Director sent the letter to inform them that there are e mails regarding this sexting case that may be relevant to the investigation that he closed in July. Here’s what Comey wrote: "In connection with an unrelated case, the FBI has learned of the existence of emails that appear pertinent to the investigation," Comey wrote the chairmen. "I am writing to inform you that the investigative team briefed me on this yesterday, and I agreed that the FBI should take appropriate investigative steps designed to allow investigators to review these emails to determine whether they contain classified information, as well as to assess their importance to our investigation." The key words here are “appear” , “whether” and “access”. These are not definitive words. These words don’t warrant phrases like “lock her up” or referring to the e mails “as the biggest political scandal since Watergate” by the GOP’s blowhard in Chief. Comey did what he technically needed to do in his own mind. But career prosecutors really differed with his actions. When does a prosecutor tip his hand in any investigation to the public? Comey has been compared to a boy scout regarding his honesty. And that’s a good thing in some instances. But Jimmy Carter was a Christian who preached the gospel of love. At times those two personas just don’t mix when navigating the waters of politics. Comey might have had a clear duty and conscience but to do this 11 days before the election, especially if it is an unrelated case, is just mind boggling. Word is that the FBI staff is divided about his actions. Facebook has exploded with words like “corruption”, “criminal” and "jail”. But the so called Constitution experts have to know that this is an inquiry and a follow up to an investigation already closed. Comey issued this statement: "We don't ordinarily tell Congress about ongoing investigations, but here I feel an obligation to do so given that I testified repeatedly in recent months that our investigation was completed," Comey said. "I also think it would be misleading to the American people were we not to supplement the record." This is a loose end that Comey felt compelled to vomit out. He may feel good about himself, think he did his duty but has just muddled the race even more. That said, the people who don’t buy Clinton’s e mail answers aren’t going to vote for her. The fact that the e mails had nothing to do with her doesn't matter. They will find a reason to hate, attack, demonize and oh yeah, not vote for her. Period. The people who want to focus on taking our country in the same direction it has been heading will support her. Those who care about a functioning government that represents all will vote for her. The unknown factor is if people will understand that until proven otherwise, these are e mails from an unrelated case. The content had nothing to do with Hillary. Period.
KAUFER-McDONALD DEBATE
Aaron Kaufer and Bob McDonald debate. (Gort 42 Facebook page)
About fifty people showed up for the Aaron Kaufer-Bob McDonald debate Friday night at Wyoming Seminary. That pretty much tells you the interest level of this race on the food chain that is the election year of 2016. Kaufer is running for a second term against Bob McDonald. Kaufer has some done something impressive for a first term Representative. He got a bill passed that changed the way welfare recipients get their money. Meaning that his bill made it mandatory that they could get it from only one state. He has also been available to residents of his district. But challenger McDonald has made the point that too many times Kaufer has voted with the GOP majority and has not been as bipartisan as he says he is. Kaufer denied that in one of the contentious moments of the debater. McDonald took issue with Kaufer’s assertion that there are too many regulations. McDonald said they are especially needed for the environmental safety of this region. The challenger cited the coal mining companies and the fact that certain industries needed to be watched Both came out for property tax reform. McDonald said he was not confident of it even being brought to the table given the GOP Speaker’s reluctance to bring it forward. Kaufer said it should be put on a referendum. One eye browsing moment was when McDonald, 59, said Kaufer, 28, was way too young and didn’t have enough life experience. That statement can go either way. Anyone who has met Kaufer knows he is a mature committed person who had his eye on this prize for a long time. I can’t blame McDonald for throwing a Hail Mary in this debate. After all, given the lackluster support (this is my opinion only) that he has received from the County Democratic party (who went all out for Eileen Cipriani last time) he should try every option he has. Both men are committed, well spoken and earnest in their reasons to want to serve. Both have the best interest of the district at heart but have different ways of getting to that juncture. Election Day will decide that matter for both. Let’s hope the turnout is better on Election Day. The debate was sponsored by The Wilkes Barre League of Women Voters.
ATHENA SMITH FORD OBIT
Athena Smith Ford (Facebook)
We just had to share this obituary with you from the family of Athena Smith Ford who died last Sunday. It is a fitting tribute to a young lady gone too soon. Athena Smith Ford, 33, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, Oct. 23, 2016, at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton. Athena died in the arms of her brother, Austin, of Mountain Top, with her mother, Diane Smith, of Kingston, father, Tom Ford, and stepmother, Maureen Cosgrove, of Mount Pocono, at her bedside. Athena died of complications from an automobile collision on Oct. 7, 2015, when she was a seat-belted passenger and suffered a traumatic brain injury. Athena never regained consciousness. Over the past year, her family and friends visited Athena virtually daily, and worked together to supplement her therapies, entertain her, complete all her paper work, advocate for her with facilities, research possible therapies and so much more. Athena received emotional and financial support from hundreds of friends and strangers touched by her life story, which helped give Athena the best chance at recovery and survival. Athena was not a perfect woman; she could be stubborn; she made mistakes; she didn't clean her room as often as her parents would have preferred. But her entire life was marked by a sincere empathy, care and concern for others, in fact, for all living beings. In the third grade, she wrote a letter to the mayor, protesting what she believed was the inhumane treatment of animals by the city. She became a vegetarian at 11 or 12. In her 13th, year she started a chapter of Amnesty International at her school. She became a local expert on child slavery and prisoners of conscience, educating first fellow-students and then the community at large in talks to local organizations. Eventually, she served on the Regional Planning Board for the Mid-Atlantic Region of Amnesty International. In high school, she also started a Yellow Ribbon Club, which was an effort to stop teen suicide. For her 16th birthday, Athena refused gifts and required her party guests to bring food for a local pantry. She collected over 500 pounds of non-perishables, and insisted that the donation be anonymous (oops, we just let it slip; sorry, Athena). In Aug. 2001, working with a local state representative, she organized a public demonstration bringing to light abuses by the Taliban in Afghanistan, over a month before 9/11. After college, she was a community organizer in Philadelphia for Working America, helping working-class families have voices heard. For most of the last eight years, she tirelessly worked in the field of health insurance reform, first for the support and passage of ACA with the Philadelphia Unemployment Project, then as the statewide advocacy director for the Pennsylvania Health Action Network. Athena then became statewide advocacy director for Florida's CHAIN, taking on the same struggle there. Wherever she went, whatever she did, she touched people and did what she could to make their lives better. In working on her assistance applications, her family discovered that, even in her most spare economic situations, she gave at least a little every month, through modest recurring donations, to organizations for which she cared deeply. Athena was born March 30, 1983, in Cleveland, Ohio, was a 2001 graduate of MMI Preparatory School in Freeland, and a 2007 graduate of her beloved Kenyon College, in Gambier, Ohio. Additional survivors include her devoted grandparents, Donald and Nancy Smith; her loving stepfather, Robert "Jake" Jastremski; her beloved sister-in-law, Katie Ford; and her niece, Leona Ford. She was fortunate to have her devoted aunt, Nancy Smith Bayley (Kevin), who provided her a remarkable amount of professional assistance and love throughout her recovery, and her aunt, Mary Hrubowchak (David), who was a constant medical adviser to her family. Athena is also survived by her nutty and loved uncle, Don Smith (Susie); aunts, Karen Ford and Sharon Green (Dean); uncle, Alan Ford, as well as by her much-loved hiking companion, her dog, Dillon. Athena will be cremated and her ashes scattered privately by her family in the woods, preserves, and hiking spots she most loved. All are invited to a celebration of Athena's life at 1 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Nescopeck Social Hall, 510 Zenith Road, Nescopeck. The family will receive well-wishers 1 to 3 p.m., after which, they will join whomever wishes to remain, as long as they wish to remain, in joyfully remembering Athena and celebrating her life. Light food and refreshments will be served. In lieu of flowers, please honor Athena's life by helping a stranger when they need a hand, by loving your neighbors, and by caring for the planet.
I've always had 3 criteria for my vote for President. FIRST: I want the President to understand how government and the world works. I want that person to be able to know what he or she needs to do and move us forward with specifics. I guess I want the President, right or left to believe in something. SECOND: I want to know who the President will bring along to the government. I want that bench to be long and seasoned. I want that bench to understand what their duties are to promote the public good. The government is big and the normal day to day operations depend on the people the President hires. At every level. From USDA inspections to Defense. Look at the Clinton bench, look at the Trump bench. He has 10 advisers we can name. With all due respect to Lou Barletta and absolutely none to Tom Marino, do we want them in The Cabinet? THIRD: I want a President who can withstand the fire. I want someone who won't take anything personal. HRC has had a 30 year assault and the most vicious characterizations hurled her way. Reagan was likable but he never gave a shit who did or did not like him. She has withstood the fire, the other guy is whining like a spoiled kid in pre school. This criteria (knowledge, a deep bench of people who can run things, and the ability to stare down danger and lunatics all) led me to vote for McGovern in '72, Ford in '76, Reagan in '80, Mondale in '84, Dukakis in '88, Bush 41 in ;92, Dole in '96, Gore in 00, Kerry in '04, (almost McCain in '08, but then he picked Palin) Obama in '08, and Obama in '12. You can guess who meets my criteria in '16. See my good friend David DeCosmo has always said, "Elections are about thinking, not reacting". Hope this help. Now sit back and wait for the Trumpettes to start sounding their sour notes.
NEWT GINGRICH MORPHS INTO MORE OF A BULLY
(Photo: Fox News)
Newt Gingrich has been a Congressman, a Speaker of the House, a deposed Speaker, a cheater who divorced two women, even left one at her bedside, an accomplished writer, a failed Presidential candidate, (that happens when you win one primary), a possible Vice Presidential pick and now a lackey for Donald Trump. But Wednesday night Gingrich took his Rudy Giuliani pills and attacked Megyn Kelly. Now Megyn Kelly anchors a program on Fox News. During any normal election year, a GOP spokesperson would want to make nice. Gingrich did not because Kelly brought up Trump’s own behavior. Old Newt decided he needed to school her. Why any woman watching this would continue to support Trump after this exchange, especially Conservative women is beyond me.
ARE THE POLLS WRIGHT OR WRONG?
Hillary Clinton is leading in the national polls. There are polls where she is up by at least 10 points. Yet Donald Trump has been making inroads in battle ground states. He is ahead in Florida and I am certain he will carry Ohio and even Michigan. To think Clinton has it locked is a foolish thought. There is a core group of support for Trump. They are passionate. They are registering and they are going to show up. Polls or no polls, this is not a route people might think it is. Plus the main objective of the Trump campaign is reduce turnout by constantly attacking Clinton.
KAUFER-McDONALD DEBATE TOMORROW NIGHT
There will be a debate this Friday night between incumbent representative Aaron Kaufer and his Democratic opponent Bob McDonald. This will be Kaufer’s third debate in a General election and he will be formidable. But McDonald has shown his no slouch and is ramping up activity toward the end. The information is below.
MEDIA MATTERS
RADIO'S SAM LIGUORI DIES
Sam Liguori a long time broadcast veteran in our area died recently. Sam was 78. Here is the link to our 590 Forever blog as we remember Sam. http://david-yonki.blogspot.com/
SUNDAY MAGAZINE
This Week on Sunday Magazine Brian Hughes speaks with nutritional healing coach and author Donna LaBar about simple natural healing techniques. Brian speaks with Bill Lavan about a haunted house for a good cause in Wilkes Barre this Sunday and Halloween night. And Brian speaks with Carl Romanelli from the Green Party about the 2016 election, the impact of third parties, and the future of the Green Party nationally and locally. Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 5am on NASH-FM, 93.7, 5:30am on 97BHT, 6am on 97.9X & Sports Radio 590, WARM, and 6:25am on Magic 93.
ECTV
ECTV Live hosts David DeCosmo, Rusty Fender,and Director Mark Migilore welcome Dr. Richard R. Silbert, of Community Care Behavioral Health in Moosic and associate professor of psychiatry at The Commonwealth Medical College to the program during the week of October 31st.
Dr. Silbert will outline plans for the school's upcoming Symposium focusing on the unique health concerns of veterans! ECTV Live is seen on COMCAST CHANNEL 19 (61 in some areas) and is aired three times daily throughout the week. ECTV Live airs at approximately Noon, 6pm, and Midnight each day.
BOLD GOLD COMMUNITY FORUM
This week's topics are the community Thanksgiving programs in Scranton. Linda and Ryan Robeson from Family to Family, and Sister Ann Walsh from Friends of the Poor will be the guests Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on NEPA's Sports Radio-The Game 1400/1440 am and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on 105 The Rive.
SUE HENRY’S SPECIAL EDITION
Tune in to Sue Henry's "Special Edition" this week as Sue recaps the week's news. . The show will run Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. on WILK, and on KRZ, Froggy and Max 102 early Sunday morning.
BUDDY RUMCHEK
Want to hear some great parodies on the news? Tune in to WILK Radio at 6:40 and 8:40 AM on Mondays. As Ralph Cramden used to say, “It’s a laugh riot!”
KAREL ON THE STREET
Tune in Wednesdays on WILK Radio for Karel on the Street. Hear some of the funniest and heartwarming comments on the issues of the day on Webster and Nancy with Karel Zubris.
BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP!!!!!
The Doo-Wop Sock Hop can be heard every Sunday night from 6P to 9P on “105 The River (104.9 FM) Host is the incomparable Bobby V. www.105theriver.net www.doowopsockhop.net.
1971
Our 1971 logo
The British House of Commons votes 356–244 in favour of joining the European Economic Community……The United Kingdom becomes the sixth nation to launch a satellite into orbit, the Prospero X-3, using a Black Arrow carrier rocket……The Egyptian Opera House (Khedivial Opera House) in Cairo burns down…..Duane Allman, 24, American rock musician, in a motorcycle accident;
Arne Tiselius, 69, Swedish biochemist and Nobel laureate….A bomb explodes at the top of the Post Office Tower in London…..in Pennsylvania the Pirates say Danny Murtgaugh will be back for another season as Pirate Manager as Roberto Clemente begins to work on efforts to send aid to the earthquake riddled nation of Nicaragua..in Scranton James Walsh campaigns hard to win a seat on the Lackawanna Court of Common Pleas
and 45 years ago the number one song in LuLac Land and America was “Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves” by Cher.
SUGAR NOTCH WAS FIRST TO DEDICATE A MEMORIAL TO FDR
One of my former co workers and political buddies Mario Fiorucci sent me an interesting letter he penned for the Citizen’s Voice regarding a memorial to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Here’s his letter and the link from the Voice Editor: Sugar Notch will be celebrating its 150th anniversary as a borough in 2017, (it was formerly part of Hanover Township). But in 1948, one of the borough’s defining moments occurred when Eleanor Roosevelt came to dedicate the first memorial in the United States to her late husband and four-time president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt. Eleanor wrote this about her visit: “The people of this little mining town...erected a memorial that I unveiled...and the Anthracite Men’s Choir sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic. Their Congressman, Dan Flood, presided and the ceremonies were well arranged by John A. Reiley of the Roosevelt memorial committee. The memorial was to all the men who died in the various wars that have made and kept us free and united. For that reason, it is even more important to think, not only of the men themselves and their sacrifice, but of the objectives which were served and for which they laid down their lives. Together we have succeeded not only in recovering from the Great Depression, but in preparing ourselves to fight our greatest war. Still, a war memorial is only a reminder...for building a peace, which can only be accomplished by us.” As a part of our celebration next year, I hope we can re-enact Eleanor Roosevelt’s dedication with townspeople portraying her and Dan Flood, along with a church choir singing the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” This will also be a real re-dedication ceremony that will mark the borough’s 150th birthday celebration and its commitment to the values and legacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Mario Fiorucci Member of council Sugar Notch http://citizensvoice.com/opinion/sugar-notch-was-first-to-dedicate-a-memorial-to-fdr-1.2108633#.WBDyP-nLIgw.email
SHAPIRO ENDORSED BY THE PATRIOT NEWS OF HARRISBURG
Democratic Attorney General candidate Josh Shapiro (Photo: Shapiro campaign)
In an interview with the PennLive/Patriot-News Editorial Board, Shapiro outlined aggressive plans to fight opioid abuse, to take the lead on environmental issues and protect consumers and senior citizens. Among his marquee proposals for the Attorney General’s Office is the institution of a code of conduct that would set down clear lines of ethical conduct for the agency’s more than 800 employees. He would also use his bully pulpit to pursue legislative authorization of a gift ban for all government employees and push for increased funding for the state Ethics Commission. As the first Democratic County Commission chairman in Montgomery County in 150 years, Shapiro helped clean up a fiscal mess and is credited with restoring comity to a divided board. Overseeing such a large county government operation gives him an executive and management edge over Rafferty, who cannot boast similar experience on an admittedly impressive resume.With his progressive vision for the office and edge in management experience, we believe Shapiro is better suited for the job of restoring credibility and stability to an office that badly needs both.
PHILADELPHIA LABOR GROUPS ENDORSE
OTTO VOIT FOR STATE TREASURER
GOP candidate for Treasurer Otto Voit (Photo: Voit campaign)
The Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local Union #413 joined with the Guardian Civic League and endorsed Otto Voit to be Pennsylvania's next State Treasurer. "Labor is the backbone of our nation and our commonwealth and Otto Voit has shown a genuine concern for our workers and their families," said James Harper, Jr., business manager for the Local #413. "We are proud to endorse him and urge all Pennsylvanians to vote for him as our next State Treasurer." "The corruption in Harrisburg threatens jobs and livelihoods across Pennsylvania. We need a voice for the people in Harrisburg. Otto Voit will be that voice." Joining the Local #413 in endorsing Voit is the Guardian Civic League. Rochelle Bilal, President of the Guardian Civic League, praised Voit's commitment to underserved communities: "[Otto Voit's] initiative, 'Kids without Connections,' which offers students a head start opportunity for growth, while still in school, is one of the ways we will see a positive difference," Bilal said. The Laborers' International Union of North American is a building trades union and the Local Union #413 is based in Philadelphia. The Guardian Civic League of Philadelphia is a local chapter of the National Black Police Association, founded in 1956. Voit expressed his appreciation for the endorsements: "I am humbled and honored to have the endorsement of both the Local #413 and the Guardian Civic League of Philadelphia. Both these organizations serve to provide a voice for the hardworking people of Pennsylvania. They understand the need for integrity and accountability in leadership and I look forward to working with them as Treasurer."
THE PRIBULAS MEET ERIC TRUMP
P.J. and Lisa Pribula with Eric Trump(Photo: Facebook)
5th District GOP Chair, yes I said GOP chair P.J. Pribula and his wife Lisa met Eric Trump the other night at the Scranton Republican party fall dinner. The young Trump stumped for his father and again his presence indicates that all roads go through Northeastern Pennsylvania during this crucial Presidential race.
Former Attorney Genera Kathleen Kane (Photo: Philly.com)
The saga of Kathleen Kane came in an ignominious end today when she was sentenced to 23 months in prison. Four years ago this month, Kane was riding the wave to election as the first elected woman Attorney General as well as the first Democratic Attorney General since the state made that office an elected one in 1980. Kane was sentenced to 10 to 23 months in prison for committing multiple felonies stemming from a politically motivated act of retribution. Kane asked for leniency and house arrest. However the prosecution said she tarnished the office of the Attorney General. She was led off to the Montgomery County jail in handcuffs but posted the $75,000 cash bail. She is free on her own recognizance. There are many who say Kane should be given house arrest. Even Steve Cornbett and l.A. Tarone who were her fiercest critics on WILK. But there are many I spoke with who felt that as AG she was elected to uphold the law. I agree. What is sad to me is that the wounds she suffered were all self inflicted. This didn’t need to happen because Kane who reached the highest of legal heights in the Commonwealth felt the need to get even in a childish and petty move that not only burned her but led to her downfall. WIP in Philadelphia reports that she will appeal.
TICK-TOCK
It just took 43 minuses on L.A. Tarone’s program to tonight until his posse started to say that what Kathleen Kane did was “nuthin’” compared to what Hillary Clinton did. Again, half ass references to wikileaks, the Clinton foundation and the fact (that Tarone pointed out) that Clinton was never charged with anything. Yet those callers KNOW IT ALL, heyna?
ATHENA SMITH FORD DIES
Athena Smith Ford (Photo: Facebook)
For any of you who attended our early blogfests or are familiar with the work of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, I am very sorry to report that Athena Smith Ford passed away on Sunday morning. Smith Ford was injured many months ago and was battling to regain the life that she knew. She fought hard but unfortunately lost that battle surrounded by her family and friends. I first met her at one of the blogfests and we started talking about religion and systems of belief and non belief. Then we spoke about health care and the impact on people in need, It was enlightening and gave me hope that the future would be populated by people of her passion, integrity and knowledge. But fate had other ideas. To her family, especially her brother Austin who was a regular attendee with her in those days, (and other family members and friends) our heart goes out to you. She will be missed and also fondly remembered.
FALLOUT FROM TRUMP RALLY CONTINUES
The fallout from the Donald Trump rally earlier this month continues. As you know Comedy Central’s Daily Show reporter Jordan Klepper did a report and interviewed some of the local color. A few years ago former Luzerne County Commissioner and former CEO of the Wilkes Barre Chamber of Commerce Todd Vonderheid said that the reason why Wilkes Barre can’t get Fortune 500 companies to come here is because the workers were not very skilled. This blog roundly criticized Vonderheid at the time. But after seeing this behavior, I think I owe Mr. Vonderheid an apology. What business leader wants to deal with the “ignorant but proud” mentality exhibited here? I saw a Letter to the Editor published this week from a local resident. Read her thoughts and then take a peek at the video and you’ll see what I mean., The author of the letter is Gaby Richards from Wilkes Barre.
TV SEGMENT OUTSIDE ARENA WAS AN EMBARRASSMENT TO REGION
Editor: One million two hundred thousand. That is how many people watched Comedy Central’s video in just one hour from outside the Trump rally at Mohegan Sun Arena last Monday. As a product of the Wilkes-Barre Area School District and someone who called NEPA home for 21 years, I am not only embarrassed but sickened by the language used in this video. One million two hundred thousand people listened to men suggest that they too would like to “grope women” the way Donald Trump has and women suggest that they will still vote for him, regardless, because “boys will be boys.” If you share those same views and accept this language as commonplace, I ask you to internalize the following: According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, every 109 seconds, someone is sexually assaulted in the United States; women are assaulted nine times out of 10. Let’s get a few things straight: “All boys talk like that” is not a justification for sexual assault. “Well, she is worse” is not a justification for sexual assault. “Bill Clinton did worse” is not a justification for sexual assault. I ask everyone reading this to think about this over the next few days: Is this how you would want your daughter to be treated? Is this how you would like your wife to be talked about “in a locker room?” Would you like your sister, wife or daughter to be touched without consent? Is this how you would like your future son-in-law to talk about your daughter while he is out with his friends? Is this how you would like your son to talk about women? If you said yes to any of those questions, by all means, vote for the misogynistic, bigoted, sexist, orange TV star running for president of the United States If you said no, well ... you know what to do. Gabby Richards Wilkes-Barre (Citizen's Voice) Here's the video!
Senator Bob Casey, Senate candidate Katie McGinty and Vice President Biden at the rally at Wilkes yesterday. (Photo: Michelle Hryvnak-Davies Facebook) Vice President Joe Biden came to Wilkes Barre and Scranton yesterday and made some news. In a fierce statement that started off slow but then built to a thundering crescendo, Biden showed his stuff as an orator. To a few in the crowd and some at home, many wondered if only for a second how this race might be shaking out if Biden ran. I thought so myself for a millisecond. But then realized that if Biden ran or even The Blessed Mother did, the GOP attack machine would bring them down anyway. Since 2004 when they “swiftboated” John Kerry it has become a way of life for the national GOP. But Biden made this statement regarding Trump and women. "What he says he did and does is the textbook definition of sexual assault. It's more than that. He said because I'm famous, because I'm a star, because I'm a billionaire, I can do things other people can't. What a disgusting assertion for anyone to make. The press always asks me don’t I wish I were debating him. No, I wish we were in high school—I could take him behind the gym. That’s what I wish." After the statement the national media as well as a few local commentators criticized Biden for the remark. But let’s put it in context. The key words were “I wish we were in high school” when he made the behind the gym comment. Biden in his 70s was raised in a time that the only way to confront a bully was to cut him down. That is the only thing bullies understand. To equate Biden’s comments as hateful or even questioning the political correctness of it is rich especially from the Trump campaign. Finally someone called out Trump for what he is. A bully who when confronted whines and says other people are worse.
Here is a segment (above) of Biden’s speech that he gave in Wilkes Barre. Listen to what he says about the middle class.
Wilkes Barre City Councilwoman Beth Gilbert met up with the Vice President along with her cousin Jill Ryan.
Who said the Democrats can’t around people? Here is the Vice President with members of his fan club.
(Photos: Beth Gilbert Facebook page).
State Representative candidate Bob McDonald had this encounter with the scrappy kid from Scranton. (Photo: Bob McDonald for Representative Facebook page)
TRUMP SUPPORTERS DEFEND HIS BEHAVIOR AT AL SMITH DINNER Of course the Social Media pages came alive with the Trump supporters who said of course “the elites” were booing him because
A. They are all for Clinton. B. They are all elites. The Al Smith dinner surely does attract very wealthy and influential people. It also attracts other individuals who will go because they believe in Smith’s philosophy to this day. Smith was the first Roman Catholic to run for President and was a Democratic Governor in New York. His candidacy mobilized Catholic votes—especially of women, who had only recently received federal suffrage. It also brought out the anti-Catholic vote, which was strongest among white conservative Democrats in the South. That was no surprise but in retrospect gave the Southerners a break from lynching black people during that campaign. Smith was a reformer and led a Progressive movement in New York that emphasized a step up for struggling New York immigrants. So Al Smith was no elite. No less an authority than Al Smith V said Trump’s comments passed the line. Here’s that video.
The other night on WBRE TV News with Nick Toma I said that Trump goes along fine and then takes a dip into the abyss. I also said imagine him at a State Dinner. For this lowly blogger from Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, I never dreamed a candidate for President would ever prove any of my humble points. But Trump never disappoints.
FRIDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS OF FANCY
You have to see this tape of what I call Friday Night Flights of Fancy from CNN. Check out the take on Chris Christie as well as the way Trump spokeswoman Gina Louden in a delusional state tried to defend the indefensible. She was nearly laughed off the set, not because the media is biased but because she looked so darn adamant in her defense of what has been asked and answered in print, video and sound.
10th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT RACE
The race between incumbent Tom Marino and Michael Michael Molesevich is pretty much a mismatch given the Democrat’s late entry into the race as well as the registration advantage in that district. But the race has been heating up to a certain extent. Marino has been shilling for Trump and the former Mayor of Lewisburg has been pointing to the fact that Marino has done little to promote jobs in that district. Here’s our take from WBRE TV Eyewitness Newsmakers with Dr. David Sosar, Jayne Ann Bugda and Andy Mehalshick.
(This is a 7 part series on the major issues in this Presidential election and where the candidates stand. The information is directly from each candidate’s website. The order of appearance will vary from week to week because we will use a coin toss to determine what candidate’s views will appear first).
IMMIGRATION
10/24/16
TRUMP
Trump has said Mexican immigrants are murderers and rapists and has called for a ban on immigrants seeking refuge from terrorism in their native countries. His talk of building a wall along the Mexican border and having Mexico pay for it has been a huge applause line at his rallies and events. Trump says U.S. immigration rules should focus more on the needs of working Americans and less on benefits to foreign nationals. He set forward three core ideas for immigration reform: 1. Build a wall across the U.S.-Mexico border. Trump proposes a border wall and says Mexico should pay for the wall with a one-time $5 billion to $10 billion payment. Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto argues there’s no way Mexico can pay for a wall as outlined by Trump. Trump has said Mexico will pay for the wall or the United States will take steps to interfere with remittances, the money that Mexican immigrants send back to family and friends. Trump said his administration would require wire transfer businesses to have customers prove their legal status in order to wire money outside the United States. By Trump’s estimates, people in the United States send about $24 billion a year to Mexico. If Mexico executes Trump’s proposed one-time payment for the wall, a Trump administration would not put into effect new rules for wire transfer agencies. Money for the wall would also come from trade tariffs and increased visa and border crossing card fees. 2. Increase enforcement of immigration laws. Trump proposes eliminating federal grants to sanctuary cities, which are jurisdictions that have laws or practices in place that limit their assistance to federal immigration officials. In sanctuary cities, local police departments refuse to contact immigration authorities when they apprehend someone who may be in the country illegally. Sanctuary cities say that contacting immigration officials may impair the relationship they have with the local community and can lead to racial profiling. Others argue that refusing to call immigration officials undermines federal laws. Trump wants nationwide implementation of E-Verify, an internet-based platform used to match information on an employee’s Form I-9 (used to verify identity and employment authorization) to data collected by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration. E-Verify is already used by more than 600,000 employers nationwide, according to immigration officials. One major change in current law that Trump would like to see is an end to birthright citizenship. He says it’s "the biggest magnet for illegal immigration" and that children born to undocumented parents should not be granted U.S. citizenship, even though the 14th Amendment says that "all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside." 3. Focus on American workers. Trump says foreign workers weigh down salaries, keep unemployment high and make it difficult for Americans and immigrants to earn a middle-class wage. Trump says employers seeking to hire should first turn to the nation’s unemployed population before recruiting foreign workers. He would create a hiatus during which foreign workers abroad would not get green cards until employers hire native-born and immigrants already in the country. Trump wants to raise criteria for refugee admissions and asylum seekers to reduce the amount of money used for programs that assist them. He says that money instead would be invested in ways to help American children without parents and in improving safety in high-crime communities.
CLINTON
Clinton has presented herself as an advocate for comprehensive immigration legislation, emphasizing a commitment to keeping immigrant families together, giving undocumented workers a chance to "come out of the shadows" and pushing for immigrant integration. 1. Immigration legislation. Clinton says she supports new immigration legislation that would create a path to citizenship. Clinton also wants Congress to get rid of the 3- and 10-year bars, the time limits on undocumented immigrants who leave the country as part of a process to legalize their status are expected to stay away from the United States before returning legally. Clinton argues that families in which members have different legal statuses are confronted with a decision to separate and go back to their native countries in order to fix their status. Clinton said she will defend President Barack Obama’s stalled executive actions designed to protect from deportation up to 5 million undocumented immigrants -- Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents, or DAPA, and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA. The actions meant to offer temporary relief from deportation to undocumented immigrants who met certain criteria, such as no felony convictions. The plans are at a halt after the Supreme Court deadlocked on a 4 to 4 vote on the legality of the actions. 2. Encourage immigrants to become naturalized citizens. Clinton wants to make it easier for people to become U.S. citizens. Clinton says she would expand fee waivers so that money isn’t an obstacle for the estimated 9 million people eligible for citizenship. Her plan is to also increase outreach and education so that potential citizens have a better understanding of the naturalization process. Clinton promises to help the nation’s estimated 42 million immigrants integrate into the United States by reducing language, education and economic barriers. She wants to increase access to language programs to help immigrants improve their English skills. Clinton says she would create a national Office of Immigrant Affairs to coordinate programs and policies among federal and local agencies working on integration and naturalization services. A Clinton administration would also favor allowing undocumented immigrants to buy medical insurance through the Affordable Care Act exchanges. Current law does not allow undocumented immigrants to buy marketplace health coverage. 3. Change detention policies. Clinton says families who don’t pose flight or public safety threats should be offered cost-effective alternatives such as supervised release instead of detention. Private immigration detention centers would close under a Clinton presidency. She says these private centers may contribute, or have the appearance of contributing, to over-incarceration. For more here is the link to Politifact. http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/article/2016/jul/15/compare-candidates-clinton-vs-trump-immigration/
Trump and Clinton after the debate. (Photo:: Revista.com)
A few thoughts on debate #3. Trump was more measured than in any other debate performance. He used the word “disaster” less than 20 times and really didn’t go off the rails until he started calling Hillary Clinton names. But the cherry on the Sunday was when Trump said he would not necessarily support the eventual victor of the Presidency. Then he just went off the cliff. It must be maddening trying to be a Trump employee. Chris Christie’s debate prep went down the drain when Trump questioned the validity of the election results and whether he would support the winner. Look this was pretty dumb. For these reasons: 1. Even though he is trailing, he still has a shot. I talk to more people everyday that despite what he says, will vote for him. 2. Trump half apologized today and said he’d not fight the outcome unless he won. 3. It is not Trump’s place to even make that request for a re-canvas because there are separate state elections. If there is a recall needed, the state officials would be mandated to do it. Let me digress a bit, if Trump wants Medicare to be run by the states, how in the hell would that work out given his lack of knowledge about how things run?
Anyway, here's my recap from last evening on WBRE TV.
NOT ABOUT GORE!!!!
Al Gore (Photo: CNN)
Al Gore was on his way to a venue in his home state to concede to George W. Bush in 2000. He was stopped by his aide Bill Daley who told him there were irregularities in Florida. Gore rescinded his concession because Democratic officials in that state wanted an investigation and called for it. Gore was willing to accept the verdict. He went through the process and when the Supreme Court voted in favor of the Bush/Cheney team he called on Americans to unite behind the nation. Here’s what he said, these words will never come out Trump’s mouth.
MELAINA: UNDER THE BUS
Melania Trump: (Photo: CNN)
You might have missed this but Donald Trump doesn’t even lie right for his family. Trump said he didn’t apologize to his wife about his alleged conduct with all those women. BUT Melania said he apologized to her last week. Does he talk to her? Did he see her interview with Anderson Cooper? Did he know he was either throwing his wife or himself under the bus?
SHAPIRO ON CORBETT
Josh Shapiro (Photo: Shapiro campaign)
Democratic candidate for Attorney General Josh Shapiro was on the Steve Corbett Show this afternoon. Shapiro outlined his plans to run the AG’s office with issues like Opiate addictions, consumer protection and pension reform. Shapiro really showed his chops allowing that his office would be an office for the people. Shapiro referenced a debate he had with his opponent John Rafferty at the Philadelphia Inquirer where Rafferty had an issue trying to straddle his endorsement and/or support of Donald Trump. The Inquirer supported Shapiro. There is another debate in Harrisburg next week.
MEDIA MATTERS
SUNDAY MAGAZINE
This Week on Sunday Magazine Brian Hughes speaks with Wanda Ashley from Fortis Institute in Scranton about their donation event to benefit homeless veterans coming up on Wednesday Oct 26th at Fortis. Brian speaks with Brendon O'Brien from the American Gas Association about winter heating bills. Magic 93's Frankie in the Morning speaks with Jesse Macko from Penn State Wilkes Barre about their Halloween Fundraiser for THON, which benefits Pediatric Cancer research. And Polly Hanson from Mediatracks speaks with Nancy Bock about childrens safety issues. Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 5am on NASH-FM, 93.7, 5:30am on 97BHT, 6am on 97.9X and Sports Radio 590, WARM and 6:25am on Magic 93.
ECTV
The Steamtown National Historical Park has got some tricks up its sleeve and Superintendent Debbie Conway will join ECTV Live hosts David DeCosmo and Rusty Fender to outline the plans for "Hallowfest" when she visits the program during the week of October 24th.
ECTV Live is seen on COMCAST CHANNEL 19 (61 in some areas) and is aired three times daily throughout the week. ECTV Live airs at approximately Noon, 6pm, and Midnight each day.
BOLD GOLD COMMUNITY FORUM
This week's guest is Marylee Schirg from the Farmers' Cooperative Market in Scranton. Tune in Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on NEPA's Sports Radio-The Game 1400/1440 am and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on 105 The River.
SUE HENRY’S SPECIAL EDITION
Tune in to Sue Henry's "Special Edition" this week as Sue recaps the week's news. . The show will run Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. on WILK, and on KRZ, Froggy and Max 102 early Sunday morning.
BUDDY RUMCHEK
Want to hear some great parodies on the news? Tune in to WILK Radio at 6:40 and 8:40 AM on Mondays. As Ralph Cramden used to say, “It’s a laugh riot!”
KAREL ON THE STREET
Tune in Wednesdays on WILK Radio for Karel on the Street. Hear some of the funniest and heartwarming comments on the issues of the day on Webster and Nancy with Karel Zubris.
BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP!!!!!
The Doo-Wop Sock Hop can be heard every Sunday night from 6P to 9P on “105 The River (104.9 FM) Host is the incomparable Bobby V. www.105theriver.net www.doowopsockhop.net.
1971
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New York City Department of Consumer Affairs recommends the repeal of a city law banning homosexuals from working in or going to bars…..The asteroid 2446 Lunacharsky is discovered by Lyudmila Chernykh…..The U.S. conducts an underground nuclear weapon test at the Nevada Test Site……20,000 Leagues Under the Sea-Submarine Voyage opens at Disney's Magic Kingdom……Soviet satellite Kosmos 453 is launched into orbit around the Earth…House Speaker K. Leroy Irvis says that Governor Shapp’s tax increase seems to have righted the ship with more revenue coming in…..in Wilkes Barre City Councilman Bob Brader rallies WB Democrats in the critical Council election and 45 years ago this week the number one song in LuLac land and America was .“Do You Know What I Mean” by Lee Michaels.
Location: Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, United States
Political analyst for WBRE TV's Pa. Live program and post election commentator for WBRE TV's Eyewitness News Daybreak show. Author of the book "A Radio Story/We Wish You Well In Your Future Endeavors" and "Leges Vitae" "26 Rules of Life" and the new novel, "Weather Or Knot". The blog editor also writes various news articles and columns as well as upcoming literary projects. The blog editor was a frequent guest on WYOU TV'S INTERACTIVE NEWSCASTS when political issues were discussed on the national, state and local level. Yonki was a weekly panelist on WYLN TV 35's Friday Topic A program. He also appeared on the Hazleton, PA. station on Election Night doing coverage and did special projects and stories for WYLN TV 35's 10PM Newscast "Late Edition".
