The LuLac Edition #3604, September 28th,2017

JOE McDADE GONE @ 85

Congressman Joe McDade, Senator Ted Kennedy and then auditor General Bob Casey. (Photo: Times Tribune.

A McDade for Congress flyer. (Times Tribune)

Joe McDade in Washington (Photo: Times Tribune)

I first became aware of Congressman Joe McDade on Election Night 1964. My parents let me stay up to watch the returns of the 1964 election involving Lyndon Johnson and Barry Goldwater. That race was over very quickly.
But a nail biter started to develop between McDade, a one term Republican Congressman who was being opposed by James Haggery. Haggerty, an in law of the powerful Scranton Times family, a Democrat in a landslide year was formidable. The lead see sawed on WDAU with Tom Powell reporting  well past midnight but McDaade prevailed. From that election on, he never had any credible opposition (except maybe 1976 when Ed Mitchell gave him a run for his money) and never looked back.
Now folks, these were the days when Wilkes Barre had their Congressman ans Scranton had theirs. McDade followed in the footsteps of the legendary Dan Flood and became a shameless advocate for his district.
If you take a walking tour around Scranton. McDade’s finger prints and satchels of government cash are all around. McDade also believed that the heritage, sometimes ignored by man and even shunned, should be celebrated.
 Joe McDade believed in going BIG. He used his clout, his force of will and personality to get funding for Steamtown, The national park that houses it, the Radison, a revamping of the entire MidValley as well as funding for historical and cultural programs.He essentially brought Tobyhanna Army Depot back from life support several times.
He was tireless and unabashed. When he was portrayed as the typical pork barrel Congressman, he took it as a compliment. His district was first and then everything else was secondary. The way he did business could never happen today. McDade snatched moments in time an era where he could do the most for his people.  He not only grabbed the brass ring, he threw it in his briefcase for future use.
When I heard McDade died at the age of 85, I thought of that young Congressman eking out that first win 53 years ago. Another poitico that night who was already a State Sen tor, Robert Casey was thinking of running for Governor. McDade was well in place before he had the chance to help Casey, a Democrat.
It is fitting that McDade, a lifelong Republican adopted Casey’s motto of “What did you do when you had the power”. Joe McDade took it and used it for good. He used it to make life better for his constituents. As he is laid to rest this week, know that Joe McDade made things possible where many said they would be impossible for a region like NEPA.
He seized the opportunity and The Lac is way better than it would have been had he not took the opportunities presented to him by both sides of the Congressional aisle. That was in a place and time far away from what we know as Congress today. Those who voted to drain the swamp and disrupt government, shake it up they screamed, many retirees who have been living off the bounty brought home by Joe McDade should stop and think about what government DID for LuLac land instead of running their mothts about how bad things have been because of government.

CARTWRIGHT STATEMENT ON JOE McDADE

Congressman Matt Cartwright made this comment about McDade's death: It is a sad time for northeastern Pennsylvania as we note the passing of U.S. Rep. Joseph M. McDade. During his 36-year tenure on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, he amassed an impressive list of accomplishments for our area, many of which are still serving to promote our economy, and help our communities. Marion and I wish to extend our deepest condolences to Sarah and the entire McDade family.”

IS PUERTO RICO THE NEW KATRINA?

The news coming of of Puerto Rico is not good. The island, a United State territory was rocked by a natural disaster. A few friends of mine have not yet heard from family or friends. It is frustrating because they never really had a great power grid and now it is decimated.
The U.S, is sending in supplies but because many Puerto Rican drivers are tending to their own ohms, getting the goods to people is delayed. It is my opinion that maybe some military might be able to get over there and coordinate with FEMA. We are responsible for them and no one is buying President Trump’s line that things will be fine. Not to be melodramatic, but if things keep being delayed, the territory of Puerto Rico just might become another Katrina.

FRANKLIN AND MARSHALL POLL RESULTS

The September Franklin and Marshall poll came out and Drs. Terry MaDonna and Michael Young sent us an outline of it. Here’s the pulse and our take on it. (Our comments are in red).  
Below are the highlights of the September 2017, Franklin & Marshall College Poll. Complete results can be found at http://www.fandm.edu/fandmpoll
President Trump’s job performance ratings have declined since the May Poll, falling from 37% to 29%.
Not a surprise because many Pennsylvanians who voted for change, now are seeing the ramifications of the Trump administrations penchant for distractions as well as the truth about what the REPUBLICAN party tried to do with health care.
Three in ten (30%) respondents currently describe themselves as “Trump supporters” while two in five (43%) describe themselves as “Trump opponents.” Trump’s strongest pool of supporters has changed little in Pennsylvania.
Nope still divisive between the pro and con. But the number is so close that to me they cancel each other out. The movement for a Trump rebound or decline goes to those in the middle.
Demographically, self-described Trump supporters are more likely to live in Southwest and Northeast Pennsylvania, and live in a rural county, to have no college degree, to be white, and to be retired.
Very true. But here’s what I don’t get or never got about the retired. Tell me what is so wrong with their lives? They bemoan illegal immigration yet that’s where their roots are. In immigration. You mean to tell me that all their ancestors were legal? And given the records back then, how would they even know? It is ironic that their grandchildren are working besides those hated “immigrants” and maybe even dating some of them. Can that be an underlying concern?
There are struggling retirees I’ll give you that, but there are lifelines of help that have come about because of the Democratic party they demonize. Some have only Social Security, some have military pensions, some from the political class have multiple pensions. All from previous government policies. Now they are so against the government that essentially made these possible? It might be a “I got mine, I’m not gonna want you to get yours mentality. 
One more thing too, the group say they are worried about the country going to hell. What did they do in their lifetime to prevent it and if pressed, they cite illegal immigration, Obama and Hillary.
Pennsylvania voters believe the President is doing best at dealing with terrorism (49% rate his performance as an “A” or a “B”). He performs worst in improving the health care system (50% rate his performance an “f”).
Any President is given a chance on terror. It is so unpredictable. Trump’s numbers might be affected by the tweeting at some point and how N. Korea turns out. On Health care, the F is well deserved because he has succeeded on pissing everybody off and blaming everybody but himself.
Governor Wolf’s positive job approval ratings (38%) are similar to the ratings he received in May. His ratings are similar to Gov. Rendell’s at this point in his administration.
Since Governors were seeking second terms in 1974 re-election had more to do with events like an economic downturn or the lack of a reasonable alternative to change horses in mid stream. He exception was Wolf’s win in 2014. As stated previously he has more of a political problem going on.
Two in five (37%) registered voters in Pennsylvania believe Senator Casey is doing an “excellent” or “good” job as the state’s U.S. Senator.
It’s not great and Casey needs to get out front of this. Early advertising would help.
Almost one in two (48%) registered voters believes the state is “on the wrong track.”
Part of divided government. It’s here to stay.
Registered voters mention government and politicians (30%), unemployment/economy (16%), education (11%), taxes (11%) as being the most important problems facing the state.
Politicians as the main problem? Pennsylvania Republicans are the main contributor to this. No action even though they control all branches of the Legislature. But the poll also reflects that people love to hate politicians unless those politicians are their own. 
This survey reflects interviews with 398 Pennsylvania registered voters, including 191 Democrats, 152 Republicans and 55 Independents conducted by the Center for Opinion Research at Franklin & Marshall College from Sept 13-18. The sample error for this survey is +/- 6.2 percentage points. A complete methodological statement can be found in the complete report.
The Franklin & Marshall College Poll is produced in conjunction with the Philadelphia Daily News, WGAL-TV (South Central PA), Pittsburgh Tribune Review, WTAE-TV (Pittsburgh), WPVI-TV6/ABC (Philadelphia), Times-Shamrock Newspapers, Harrisburg Patriot-News/PennLive, LNP media group, and the Reading Eagle. It may be used in whole or in part, provided any use is attributed to the college.

PHAN STATEMENT ON FAILURE OF GRAHAM-CASSIDY BILL IN THE SENATE:

LEGISLATION WOULD HAVE ENDANGERED HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF PA SENIORS, CHILDREN, PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, AND WORKING FAMILIES

Efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and gut Medicaid once again failed to secure passage in the Senate. The Graham-Cassidy proposal that was under consideration would have made drastic cuts to health coverage and increased costs for Pennsylvanians. Antoinette Kraus, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, released the following statement:
“Like the rest of the repeal bills we have seen this year, Graham-Cassidy would have stripped coverage from millions and raised costs for those who purchase insurance through the marketplace. In fact, this bill was even more radical than some of the proposals that preceded it. It would have made billions of dollars of cuts to Medicaid, a program that provides access to care for children, seniors, working families, pregnant moms, veterans, and people with disabilities. The failure of the Graham-Cassidy Bill & the approaching Senate reconciliation deadline on September 30th means that all these groups can rest assured that their coverage is safe, for now. We are grateful to the thousands of regular Pennsylvanians who spoke out against this disastrous bill and who ultimately influenced the outcome today.
Now is the time for Congress to refocus on bipartisan efforts to stabilize insurance markets, set aside funds for cost-sharing reductions, and make concrete, measurable improvements to the Affordable Care Act. We also call on the Administration to end its efforts to sabotage the Affordable Care Act that have included reducing funds available to publicize this year's Open Enrollment period, cutting the number of navigators available to help individuals understand & sign up for insurance coverage through the marketplace, and refusing to approve cost-sharing reductions that would allow insurers to offer more reasonable rates for 2018, among others. Lastly, we call on Congress to focus efforts on CHIP reauthorization and making sure health centers are fully funded."

ENTERCOM SELLS FROGGY 95.9 FREQUENCY

Earlier today we wrote that ihe iconic Country and Western 50,000 watt giant, Froggy 101 has been sold by Entercom. There has been speculation that with their new merger, Entercom would have to sell a frequency.  They did, it was the sub frequency that used to be the old WDLS, 95.9. Harry West did a stint there for a while. Sorry for jumping the gun. Corrected.

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD BOLD COMMUNITY FORUM

This week's guest is Marie Onukiavich, Executive Director of NAMI-Scranton, discussing mental health.
Tune in Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on 1400-The Game, NEPA's Fox Sports Radio and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on 105 The River.

SUNDAY MAGAZINE

This Week on Sunday Magazine.
Brian Hughes speaks with Kenny Luck about his documentary, "Opioid Nation" and the impact of opioid abuse on Northeast Pa.
Magic 93's Frankie in the Morning speaks with Carol & Rachel from the Back Mountain Memorial Library, about their Designer Bag fundraiser, coming up on Sunday at Dallas High School.
Brian speaks with Todd Katz from MetLife on what you need to know about Open Enrollment for 2018.
And an encore of Brian's interview with Brian Hallick and Doug Calzola about the Knights of Columbus St Ann's Council's 2nd Annual Charities Golf Tournament, coming up on Saturday October 14th at the Pine Hills Country Club in Taylor.
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 LIVE

ECTV Live hosts Rusty Fender and David DeCosmo will welcome a guest from the University of Scranton to the program during the week of October 2nd to discuss programs and activities open to the public this fall.
ECTV Live can be seen on Comcast channel 19 (61 in some areas) and is aired during the Noon, 6pm and Midnight hours each day of the week. Following Monday's Live program the show will become available on Electric City Television's YouTube channel which can be viewed on your computer.

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 he heartwarming comments on the issues of the day on Webster and Nancy with Karel Zubris.

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!!!!

1977

Our 1977 logo

Singer-songwriter Billy Joel releases his fifth studio album The Stranger; it becomes the first of several hit albums, spawning five hit singles, going 10x platinum in the US, and later ranking at No. 70 on the list of Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time…..

The modern Food Stamp Program begins when the Food Stamp Act of 1977 is enacted……Energy Research and Development Administration combined with the Federal Energy Administration to form United States Department of Energy……in Pennsylvania excitement reigns in Philly as the Phillies head for their second straight division title……in Luzerne County more people begin to speculate on where Penn State’s Jimmy Cefalo might go if drafted by the pros as he closes out his Penn State career  and forty years ago this week the number one song song in LuLac land and America was “You Light Up My Life” by Debby Boone.

The LuLac Edition #3603, September 27th, 2017

WRITE ON WEDNESDAY

Our “Write On Wednesday” logo

MAYBE PRESIDENT TRUMP SHOULD WATCH PBS

Last week the Tribune News Service distributed this article by Anne McFeatters about President Trump, the Vietnam War and PBS. Thought provoking and timely for today’s “Write On Wednesday”.
If you’re a glutton for punishment, you’ve been watching Ken Burns’ “The Vietnam War” series on PBS. If you’re a glutton for punishment, you also watched Donald Trump’s speech at the United Nations threatening to destroy North Korea.
Wow. We have learned nothing!
During the Vietnam War, as now, America was frighteningly divided. It was a bitter, hateful, destructive period.
Burns’ series, of course, is compelling and beautifully done. It is also extremely painful to watch. The senseless killing and maiming. The merciless bombings. The stupid miscalculations of politicians who didn’t understand the ramifications of what they didn’t understand and their actions in sending thousands of young Americans into incomprehensible horror. The cover-ups to protect egos.
Ask Sen. John McCain, the Republican senator who was imprisoned and tortured by the North Vietnamese. There’s a man who understands, who trembles that we haven’t learned Vietnam’s lessons. A patriot whom Trump ridiculed for being captured. Trump, who didn’t serve in Vietnam because of bone spurs. Yeah, his feet hurt.
What was the cost of Vietnam? The loss of 58,000 Americans. The deaths of 3.6 million Vietnamese. An entire generation lost respect for government and civility. And confidence the U.S. would always do the right thing. If you haven’t been to see the Vietnam War memorial in Washington, go.
After Vietnam, the shining city on the hill was, well, heartbreakingly dimmed. As painful as it is to remember, we must.
Many Americans are too young to understand that we also fought in Korea after North Korea invaded the South. We lost 37,000 Americans. Nearly 8,000 are missing. More than 100,000 were wounded. More than 2 million Koreans died as well as 600,000 Chinese soldiers who fought on North Korea’s side. It ended with an armistice; no real end.
Are we going to war again on the Korean peninsula? I don’t think so but I don’t know. Nobody does. Could we be so egregiously wrong again as we were in Vietnam? Yes, I fear we could be.The origins of U.S. involvement in Vietnam went back to Woodrow Wilson. One of those presidents who has a lot to answer for.
Now, in 2017, a new president went before the U.N., a body dedicated to peace and conflict resolution, an organization whose first war was in Korea, and he taunted, like a junior high school bully, the leader of North Korea as “Rocket Man.” Then Trump threatened to “totally destroy” North Korea. The country!
Kim Jong Un is, of course, as unsuited to be a leader as Trump is. But you’d think the United States would be a little more adult than North Korea’s mop-topped, self-indulgent despot in this tense situation. Shouldn’t the objective be avoiding more death and destruction?
When Trump urged every nation to serve its own interests first before considering the good of mankind (shades of Germany in the ’30s), the U.N. response was stunned incomprehension and nervous disbelief.
You could see the fear and uncertainty in the eyes of the envoys, trapped between their translating earphones. Seeking stability and a plan for peace from the U.S., they heard incoherence, contradiction and narcissistic arrogance.
Rarely, OK, never in modern history, has the United States been more embarrassed on the world stage because of its president. (Slavery will always be our permanent stain, but inciting an unstable, paranoid nut case to use nukes ranks high on the list of unforgivable, felonious misbehaviors.)
Strangely, Iran pinpointed what may be the most frightening Trump legacy to date. When Trump threatened to walk away from the six-nation agreement that decreed Iran give up its nuclear ambitions, and when he left the worldwide agreement recognizing climate change as a global threat, Trump basically told the world that the United States is not to be trusted to keep its word.
“Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and his regime,” Trump declared about Kim Jong Un.
You’d think that before threatening the deaths of hundreds of thousands of innocent people and possibly even nuclear war, Trump would understand that the million-man North Korean army is as dedicated to its country’s survival and sovereignty as North Vietnam’s was.
U.S. leaders were warned about catastrophe in Vietnam and ignored the warning.
If Trump knew anything about history, he’d be far less flippant about threatening war.
Ann McFeatters is an op-ed columnist for Tribune News Service.

The LuLac Edition #3602, September 26th, 2017

THE BIG KNEELING DEBATE

There is no doubt in this country that people believe that there is freedom of speech. When the Trump ites yelled, “Lock Her Up” regarding Hillary Clinton, that was freedom of speech..
When they yelled “get her out of here” to an NBC reporter, that was freedom of speech. When they yelled about Obama being the Worst President in the United States, or not being born here, that was freedom of speech.
But once their freedom of speech was challenged, it became a different story. True to form, a segment of this country that responded to the dog whistle of the current occupant, are denying NFL players a right to a peaceful protest that was pretty much uneventful until the blabber mouth in chief made it a spectacle. It is no accident that he used the term "sons of bitches" blanketing black families with single mother households. Freedom of speech is okay as long as it is YOUR own freedom of speech.
Same goes for those on the Left who shut down Anne Coulter and others at Berkley. Same thing.
Two things amaze me about all of this. Longtime football fans, many adults who wear the jerseys of their favorite players now say they will never, ever watch another game again. (I imagine a child holding their breath as I write this stamping their feet) So because a few players initially did this, and their teams backed them, now the team is no good? The players you cheered for, fought over, ignored your kids for on a Sunday afternoon are now no good because your fearless leader tells you so? What one dimensional thinkers you’ve become.
Then there is the aspect of veterans and families of veterans thinking this is disrespecting everything those servicemen and women ever served for. Have they spit on the flag? Have they pissed on the flag? Have they given a middle finger to America by quietly, somberly making a statement?
The freedom those veterans fought for was freedom to say “Lock Her Up” as well as an action at a football game. Don’t tell me that it isn’t because if you want to challenge this on patriotic grounds, how patriotic was it for a candidate under the flag of the United States running for office inciting people to violence? How do you compare that to a peaceful protest? You can’t. But I’m sure you’ll have your justifications.
Fighting for freedom and sacrificing is not a Chinese menu. You don’t get to pick and choose what you like or don’t like. What you believe and what others believe.
It’s not like that. Freedom is that right, guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, to express beliefs and ideas without unwarranted government restriction.
There are limitations like crying fire in a crowded movie theater but before we get our little itty feelings hurt over a gesture at a football game, let me say this.
If a certain segment of America put up with “lock her up,”, ‘grab her p****”, or this 

 during a Presidential campaign, don’t you start getting selective about athletes who chose to make a silent, non violent, gesture.

BARLETTA JOINS LOCAL VETERANS FOR ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

Welcomes Secretary of Department of Veterans Affairs, David Shulkin

Congressman Lou Barletta (Photo: Barletta office)

Congressman Lou Barletta on Friday attended a roundtable discussion on veterans issues, where he had the privilege of introducing the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), David Shulkin. 
“I was honored to introduce Secretary David Shulkin, and to welcome him to Mechanicsburg to have an important conversation with the veterans of our community,” said Barletta.  “Secretary Shulkin, who is no stranger to Pennsylvania, is a distinguished physician by trade, and uniquely qualified to serve as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.”
 The roundtable was well-attended by local representatives from the veterans community, who are best-positioned to inform the discussion on how to improve the services provided to those who have served.  During the conversation, veterans were able to share their vision on how to address systemic issues at the VA, including long wait times and claims backlogs.
In July, Barletta voted for, and the House passed, H.R. 3219, the Make America Secure Appropriations Act, which provides $78.3 billion for the VA – the highest level of funding ever for that agency.  In addition, the bill provides $69 billion for VA medical care so that veterans can receive mental health and suicide prevention services, treatment for traumatic brain injury, opioid abuse prevention, and other medical services, such as rural health initiatives.  The bill also includes $65 million for upgrading the VA electronic record system, as well as $156 million for the Board of Veterans Appeals to address claims backlogs. 
Barletta also voted for legislation in June, S. 1094, the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017, which would institute necessary reforms at the VA by providing the Secretary with the authority to expeditiously remove, demote, or suspend any VA employee for performance or misconduct, while maintaining due process for employees.  On average, it takes six months to a year to remove a permanent civil servant in the federal government – an unacceptable timeline given the immediate impact they have on veterans’ wellbeing.  President Trump has since signed the bill into law.
“I commend Secretary Shulkin and the Trump Administration for the action they have taken to restore veterans’ trust in the government that is indebted to them,” Barletta said.  “Already, Secretary Shulkin has helped usher VA accountability legislation through Congress, and has made the VA the first health care system in the country to publish waiting times at its clinics – a victory for accountability, which we owe to our heroes.”

The LuLac Edition #3601, September 25th, 2017

DALE KRIDLO HONORED

From left to right, Dale Kridlo's mom Michelle Dale and dad Al Kridlo Junioe, Congressman Matt Cartwright, Representative Aaron Kaufer as well as State Senator John Yudichak in the foreground at the dedication.

For years the name of Ambrose West and a group of other Luzerne County politicos positions were on a plaque on the Fort Jenkins Bridge. That changed Sunday when the iconic bridge was re named for the late Dale Kridlo who gave his life in Afghanistan in 2010. The honor is fitting for a young man cut down in his prime serving his nation. It was Sunday November 7th, 7 years ago in in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, when he died from wounds suffered by insurgents' attacks on his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 27th Engineer Battalion, 20th Engineer Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C.

It stunned Pittston and the entire surrounding communities. Less than 2% of the general population serve in the military. The danger faced by those soldiers was magnified by his death.

He is now being honored for giving the ultimate sacrifice. As I wrote his Aunt Debbie on FB, it was heart wrenching. However his memory and what he did will be long preserved.

The Yonki family has known the Kridlos for years. Dale's grand father was a long time City Councilman. So this was personal for all of us and those in the Junction neighborhood he came from. Against the back drop of a blue sky and blazing sun, the flag flew in somber remembrance of this very special young man.

We found a video that says it all from 2011 that we'll share with you today.



BLOG FEST IN  OCTOBER

This fall’s Blogfest will take place in just a few weeks at the River Street Grille. It is on Saturday October 14th, starting at 5pm. All candidates as well as their friends and supporters are welcome. Hope to see you there.

BEDNAR EVENT THIS FRIDAY

(Photo: Bednar campaign)

Michelle Bednar who is running for re-election as Luzerne County Controller will have an event this Friday from 6 to 9pm at Bentley’s on Route 309. If you cannot attend, make checks payable to “Friends of Bednar”, 21 Sandy Beach Road, Wapwollopen, Pa. 18660. You can call 570 814 5465 or e mail Gale at ubu61@hotmail.com. Cost is $50.00.

Bednar has been front and center at every event this year and I’m sure will get a great turnout from her supporters.

TREASURY SECRETARY TO NFL PLAYERS: TAKE FREEDOM OF SPEECH OFF THE FIELD

It was very intriguing yesterday to see Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin tell NFL players to take free speech “off the field”. He unblinkingly supported the President’s assertion that players were unpatriotic for not standing for the national anthem. He also said everybody should stand for the national anthem. A few things:

1. People need to be told to stand.

2. Some need t be told to take off their hats.

3. Some need to stop drinking beer.

4. Or stop talking.

It’s not as if players were giving the flag or the country the finger. It was respectful move. If I hear someone say “this disrespects the military who fight for our freedoms”, newsflash, they fought for all of us to express an opinion. Here’s what he had to say yesterday:

The LuLac Edition #3600, September 24th, 2017

LULAC @ 3600

Well it's way  past midnight and whatever was going to crash into our planet didn't kill us. So today LuLac posts our 3600th Edition. We've been up every week for 11 years except for two extended time outs for my cancer deal in 2008 and the Myasthenia Crisis in 2013. We've averaged 300 posts a year and are over 1 million hits.
Thanks for posting, thanks for being pissed when I don't post your comments because while I can't put some of that stuff up, I appreciate your enthusiasm. 
A little inside baseball here, my plans after 2016 were to wind down LuLac and start a fashion blog for older men. But events and at first wildly entertaining scenarios emerged. With those now becoming increasingly more dangerous and erratic on the world, national and state level, to not stay, not say anything would be a serious dereliction of responsibility. So on we go.
With Providence and good health...........on to #3700.
Unless a meteor interrupts us.

REP. CARTWRIGHT AND SEN. MARKEY INTRODUCE BILL TO PREPARE FOR HEALTH IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Congressman Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives)

Representative Matt Cartwright and Senator Edward J. Markey  introduced legislation that will help improve America’s public health response to climate change by supporting research, monitoring, and preparation in the health sector and by developing a national action plan. Representatives Brad Schneider (IL-10), Doris Matsui (CA-06), and Salud Carbajal (CA-24) joined in introducing the House bill.
The Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services acting through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop a National Strategic Action Plan to assist health professionals in preparing for and responding to the public health effects of climate change.
“Hurricanes Irma and Harvey demonstrated the often tragic results of climate change,” said Rep. Cartwright, a vice chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) and a member of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus. “But climate change doesn’t only appear as a disastrous storm. Climate change impacts our lives daily – from the air we breathe and to the water we drink. We need to take action. This bill is a significant step towards safeguarding our environment and public health, protecting our communities, and saving in health care costs. I look forward to working with my colleagues to improve our nation’s public health response to climate change.”
“Climate change threatens the health of people and the planet,” said Sen. Markey, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and Chair of the Senate Climate Change Task Force. “Our country is suffering first-hand the effects of storms that are delivering more rain, higher winds, and greater storm surges from rising seas. Climate change gets personal when the risks of food, water and mosquito and tick transmitted diseases increases and air pollution harms lungs. We need to take action to address the health impacts of climate change that are already happening and prepare for those that are coming. I thank Rep. Cartwright for his partnership on legislation that recognizes that we need a national action plan to respond to the public health impacts of climate change.”
This legislation was introduced in advance of the United Nations climate meetings in New York next week.
“Understanding the public health effects of climate change and preparing our health system to respond is a matter of critical strategic importance,” Rep. Schneider said. “As we confront the acute devastation of the recent hurricanes in Florida and Texas, we must also contend with the longer-term threats to our health and wellness posed by a changing climate. This bill is a commonsense step to better understand and address the problem, and I thank Sen. Markey and my colleagues Reps. Cartwright, Matsui, and Carbajal for their leadership on this issue.”
“Climate change is increasingly a threat to public health,” said Rep. Matsui, a co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC). “We need a national program that helps ensure we are prepared to respond to the negative impacts of our changing climate through research, training, and education. This is an important part of our overall work to act on climate and protect the health and well-being of future generations.”
“The threat of climate change to our public health is deeply troubling, but what is even more concerning is our lack of preparedness to keep people healthy in a changing environment,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Increasingly extreme weather events and deteriorating air quality are all contributing to a rise in climate-related illnesses and deaths. It is imperative that we work to reverse this disturbing trend, by providing our public health officials with the resources they need to track and mitigate its impacts.”
Specifically, the Climate Change Health Protection and Promotion Act would:
•Provide technical support to state and local health departments to develop preparedness plans and conduct community outreach;
•Enhance forecasting and modeling, track environmental and disease data, and expand research capacity to better understand the relationship between climate change and health;
•Enhance domestic and international tracking capacity for infectious diseases and environmental health indicators;
•Develop a coordinated research and preparedness agenda on climate and health.

MEDIA MATTERS

Just wrapping up checking out the documentary "Vietnam" on PBS. Mrs. FB and I lived through that time, we both read numerous books on the subject but learned a few things watching these hours.
As a pre teen I remember seeing the footage and every night on the Nightly News there were the death counts. When you saw 111 Americans, 450 S. Vietnamese and then 2500 North Vietnamese dead, it was easy to think how we were winning.
I wish my cousin Francis who served and my late great friend and broadcast sales buddy Jim Petrie were alive to see this. "Pete" would have been a great guest on Judge Munley's show. I once asked Petrie how he became a Sargent so quickly upon his arrival in Southeast Asia and he said he was told, "You look like one!".
Another friend was drafted by the Honesdale Draft and was in Vietnam for 8 months until someone realized he shouldn't have been there since he was the sole support for his mother. Congressman McDade got on the phone directly to General Westmoreland on a Tuesday and by Thursday my friend was in Hawaii.
A quick shout out to two FB friends whose names appeared on the credits of that great Richard Briggs film from 2005 broadcast Friday night at 10 WVIA TV. Peter Gagliardi and Teresa Szymanski were credited at the end of the show.
The program showed that war should not be taken lightly in its infancy or execution. 
Speaking of my friend Petrie, here's a video made by LuLac when he was still alive. He co wrote the song with Shawn Zona. 

The LuLac Edition #3599, September 21st, 2017

THE NEW GOP HEALTH CARE SCAM

The REPUBLICAN party now has started a last ditch effort to try and scuttle The Affordable Care Act. There was communication going on between Democrat Patty Murray and GOP Senator LaMar Alexander to try and make a proposal to fix Obama care. But that has ceased because the REPUBLICAN party now wants to repeal it. AGAIN! It has nothing to do with health care but more about trying to win a Legislative victory that has eluded them.
Here’s what’s at stake if this thing passes.
Repeals Medicaid expansion, but provides block-grant funding, until 2027, which states can use as they wish. 
The question is where will states put this money? Will elderly people who will rely on Medicaid in their dying days be told to fend for themselves?Once Medicare runs out for an individual in a nursing home, Medicaid kicks in.
Repeals Obamacare's out-of-pocket subsidies in 2020; however, states can use block grants to help lower costs for those who are receiving them.
There never was a block grant that was used to lower anything. It supplemented but never lowered any costs.
Repeals tax credits that reduce monthly insurance premiums for people earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level; however, states can use block-grant money to create their own subsidy programs.
There would be inequality in states. More compassionate states would bear the burden unfairly. Estimated cost to New York and Pennsylvania, in the billions. 
Eliminates the medical device tax, but other Obamacare taxes remain in place.
So the GOP likes the other taxes? Not really but they have to keep some tax to support their plan for fear of being called “free spending”.
Allows states to obtain waivers to Obamacare rules requiring health insurance to cover "essential health benefits" (such as outpatient services and mental health care).
So a state can make a life and death decision as to who gets care. It is their own version of a death panel.
Allows insurers to cap lifetime spending per patient.
God help you if you have a disabled child or have a medical condition that costs a lot. What of the people who have diseases that require more care? Under this plan, the insurance company makes the call on who gets care and who doesn’t.
Gives states with waivers the ability to allow insurers to price plans based on a person's pre-existing conditions.
You have cancer, you pay more. Even though YOU are now covered. You have a neurological chronic disease like I do, you pay more. The insurers will raise the prices because they can. Have you ever heard of an Insurance company that gave premium rebates? Locally Blue Cross of NEPA had a 60 million dollar surplus and gave their former head a 7 million dollar buy out. Do you really think they’d change their stripes now?
Allows states with waivers to let insurers charge the elderly premiums that are greater than three times the amount charged to younger Americans.
Yep all those children of people on Medicare pay more. Some of these are the same people who whined about high premiums. Wait...until this thing kicks in if passed. 
Eliminates the individual mandate to buy health insurance and the rule requiring businesses with a 50 or more full-time employees to provide health insurance.
So if you work for a company of less than 50, you are screwed. Unless of course you work for a company who will be responsible for their workers.
Increases how much money people can contribute to health savings accounts (HSAs) and allows HSAs to be used to pay insurance premiums.
Yippee. I KNOW no one who has a Health Savings account.
Allows children to remain on a parent's insurance plan until age 26.
Wow. Totally impressed.
If you think this thing will help the Middle Class, you are dreaming. The deadline to get this done without CBO score is Sept. 30th.
Dollars to donuts Puny Pat Toomey will go along with the GOP. Remember that next time he gives a town meeting.

JIMMY KIMMEL WEIGHS IN

The first time I saw Jimmy Kimmel on TV was when he co hosted The Man Show. But he has come a long way since then. Here’s what he said on his show  regarding the latest GOP end run on Health Care.

MONEY PEOPLE START THE BUCK DRIVE FOR LOU AND DAN

11th Congressional candidate Dan Meuser, 120th District Vice Chair Lynette Villano and Senate candidate Lou Barletta (Photo: Villano Facebook page)

The local money men and women are now getting their fundraiser efforts under way to help bolster the coffers of both Lou Barletta and Dan Meuser. Barletta is going after the GOP nomination while Dan Meuser is going after his seat in the 11th. This event, by invite only was a clear sign that in terms of fundraiser, these people are serious.

TONY BROOKS LIVING HISTORY

One of the most influential advocates for mainlining and promoting, not to mention preserving the history of Wilkes Barre is Wilkes Barre City Councilman Tony Brooks. Brooks is shown here with local historical preservation advocate Kathleen Smith. Brooks is also getting high marks for his work on Wilkes Barre City Council. 

THE PROPOSED DALLAS SCHOOL STRIKE

Once more a school strike by teachers has reared its ugly greedy head in LuLac land. This time the Dallas School district teachers are striking because of the pittance they must pay for their health care. Their attitude is an insult to hard working people who pay much more.
The kicker is that even after these greedy individuals retire, the taxpayer pays their freight.
The time has come to abolish the teacher unions ALL TOGETHER and hire people who will appreciate their jobs.
It of course begs the question….why don’t they strike in the summer? Why don’t they walk the picket line after 3?
That would be “work”, extra and we can’t have none of that now can we. 

Teachers are still another part of the political class that deserve little sympathy and very little respect when they strike.
They care about the kids though Yonk, right?
Yeah, right
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is essentially the same article we wrote last week about the Abington Heights School strike. Sentiments and beliefs are the same, you just have to insert the name of the school district the ingrate teachers are striking in.

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD BOLD COMMUNITY FORUM

Tune in Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on 1400-The Game, NEPA's Fox Sports Radio and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on 105 The River.

SUNDAY MAGAZINE

This Week on Sunday Magazine.
Brian Hughes speaks with Wilkes Barre City Administrator Ted Wampole about Wilkes Barre's uncertain finances, and why he is  optimistic about the Diamond City's future.
Magic 93's Frankie in the Morning speaks with members of the Kings College Theater Department about their new show "The Year of Frog and Toad", which opens on Thursday Sept 28th.
Brian speaks with Dr. Robert Eckle about the "Five Cholesterol Myths".
And Brian speaks with Dr. Lisa Masterson about "Menopause Awareness".  The month of September is "Menopause Awareness Month".
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 LIVE

It may not be scary but ECTV Live hosts Rusty Fender, David DeCosmo, and Director Mark Migilore will be talking about a cemetery during the week of September 25th as guest Julie Esty unveils plans for this year's presentation by the Dearly Departed Players in Dunmore.

ECTV Live can be seen on Comcast channel 19 (61 in some areas) and is aired during the Noon, 6pm and Midnight hours each day of the week. Following Monday's Live program the show will become available on Electric City Television's YouTube channel which can be viewed on your computer.

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 he heartwarming comments on the issues of the day on Webster and Nancy with Karel Zubris.

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!!!!

1977

Our 1977 logo

Jazz-rock group Steely Dan releases their sixth studio album Aja; it becomes their highest charting album in the United States at No. 3 and goes on to sell over 5 million copies.

The Porsche 928 debuts at the Geneva Motor Show……from Harrisburg there are reports that Lt. Governor Ernie Kline is gearing up for his campaign for Governor in 1978…….in Luzerne County word is out that GOP 20th District State Senator T. Newell Wood might be vacating his seat a year later. Wood was elected in 1966 to that seat after redistricting….and forty years ago this week the number one song in America and Lulac land was “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac.

The LuLac Edition #3598, September 18th, 2017

TRUMP AND THE LUZERNE COUNTY GOP: A LOST OPPORTUNITY

As I said many times here on LuLac and other places, President Trump won Pennsylvania by 44,000 votes. 26,000, more than half came from Luzerne County. Some of them were ingrate Democrats, some were Independents who were angry for whatever reason. My thoughts were that with this huge wind at their sails after 2016, the Republican GOP in the county might be something to be reckoned with again.
When I was growing up, the Republican party was competitive in Wilkes Barre and Luzerne County. By 1967 the cracks in the wall started to show and by the 70s the Republicans became a second rate political entity.
The party, to be sure had successes. After the death of Commissioner Crossin 1980, the Democrats intensified their divisions and Frank Trinisewski and Jim Phillips took over The Courthouse. Many thought the Republicans were back but the votes for Trini were based more on his political personality than any allegiance to the GOP. When he became a Democrat, the GOP never had control of the county again. District Attorney races were won by Corey Stevens and Stefanie Salavantis  because they as candidates, capitalized on the weaknesses, perceived or real, of their Democratic opponents. Tarah Toohil in the 116th and Aaron Kaufer in the 120th as well as Tony Brooks in Wilkes Barre District B did the same thing. All were well funded, had great presence on the campaign trail and convinced voters that a new direction was needed.
In my way of thinking, the Trump campaign followed that model. Unlike Secretary Clinton, his campaign was here, asked for the vote and he was seen as an alternative to his Democratic opponent. So on radio and TV,  I said that this was a great way for the GOP to revitalize itself and take action in the County. They had an abundance of local role models who did it. So I waited for some action.
And waited. Okay, it was a tough campaign. Plus Christmas and New Years were afoot.
So I waited. Ahh Inauguration Day. Maybe there would be an event that would get people geared up locally. When President Reagan and George H.W. Bush won, there were local “watch” parties when they were sworn in.
Nope, none. Hey but wait, the Super Bowl was coming. Surely the Lincoln Day Dinner (which I attended in the past) would be front and center for some old fashioned chest thumping. Uh….no. Cancelled because of scheduling conflicts I was told.
You know where I’m going here. There wasn’t a primary fight for the county Council but at least they had a full slate for the fall.
Harry Haas, Gregory S Wolovich Jr, Chris R Perry, Marc Dixon and Stephen J. Urban are all good candidates.
Plus their Facebook page as well as the outreach to Young Republicans is not bad. 
The Summer outing was so unattended that even the candidate for Governor avoided it and went to the Tomato Festival.  If I'm running as a county Council candidate and I go to an event where very few from my party is there, what the hell am I going to think! Jesus, no wonder why I saw Chris Perry at Matt Vough's event Wednesday night. There were people there!  
You win elections by registration drives. Where are they? That's how you win here. Donald Trump and Tony Brooks notwithstanding, there will be other Democratic candidates who will not be as anathema to the voters like Hillary Clinton and Lou Elmy were.
There are also reports that key state committee people who have been there for years are being shunted aside. Why? What onerous actions did any of them take to deserve that?
Mrs. LuLac and I attended the Luzerne County Fair a few weeks ago. Now the Vice Chair of the 120th Ditrict, Lynette Villano and I have been going at it on Facebook since Trump took office. I was fully expecting to get an earful from the people manning the GOP booth that traditionally was a hotbed in the Back Mountain. But there was nary a soul there. On a Friday night at the fair? C'mon man!!!
Look on the national level, I am a Democrat. But since the local Democratic party is full of cronies and sons and nieces of cronies, I have no allegiance to them. Through the years I gave the state party as well as candidates money. In some years more than I could afford. I did it only to see the members of the non political class like me ignored. On Property taxes, the only person in my district is Senator Yudichak who is for Property Tax reform. As a person who respects and even likes government, I want the local Republican party to succeed.
But it won't happen unless this occurs:
1. New registration drives to get new voters.
2. A blending of the old and new leadership. When someone assumes leadership, the key is to merge….not purge. You lose experience but more importantly, this is a luxury YOU CAN”T AFFORD! You need all the bodies you can get. 40 years ago, Reggie, Billy and Thurman couldn’t stand the sight of each other. But they knew the key was winning. You don’t win by getting by an opponent in a primary. You don’t win by attaining a party office. You WIN in November. After that, nothing else matters.
3. Stay visible. Use that great victory in 2016 to expand your local stronghold. Be selective in your use. Trump and Pence are example of how two different people of values, and roots can co exist.
If those two guys can bring a portion, hey a majority, enough of votes to their side to win their election, locally, here in little old Luzerne County it can be done.
If it can’t, maybe it’s time to do some internal re-arranging.
To be clear, I have no dog in this hunt. My life will go on either way. But one of my key beliefs has always been, “Never waste an opportunity”.
I think of many things when I see Trump on TV but the one thing that I don’t understand is why his big win is not being exploited.It was and remains a wasted opportunity.

BILL BARRETT: "BUILD YOUR OWN DRIVEWAY!"

Wilkes Barre City Councilman Bill Barrett (Photo: Times Leader)

Wilkes Barre City Council passed a resolution prohibiting residents from parking cars on their lawns when street parking is unavailable. On the surface this sounds okay. You don’t want a neighborhood infested by old junkers in someone’s front yard. Quality of life is an important thing in a neighborhood. However in neighborhoods where parking is at a premium, sometimes a resident might need to get on their lawn.
At least for a little while. But Barrett and Council seem to be the proverbial old men yelling, “Get off our lawns”.
Look, I think this is over regulation. But Council had some complains and acted on it. But when a resident objected, Bill Barrett, Representative of District D said, “Well build a driveway”. I wasn’t at the meeting but in the newspapers it really didn’t read well.
The fact is that if you are lucky enough to buy a house with a driveway, you’re fine. But residents in this city who are not members of the political class CAN’T AFFORD to “just build a driveway”. What an insult! There are residents in this city who work at real jobs for low wages holding on to their homes by a thread because of the incompetence of the Wilkes Barre Area School Board and the refusal of the State Representative to even consider property tax reform. You’re answer to a resident who questions why you are passing this is, “Build a driveway?”
Maybe if that resident Barrett dissed had three pensions coming in like the ex Police Chief, LCCC Security head and God knows what else, has health care taken care of as well as other bennies from previous tax payers supported jobs…that resident might be able to afford to “build a driveway”. If you want a driveway with about 494 square feet, that might run around $1500.00 or more. A few years ago we had our drive way expanded. We needed huge curbs removed. That was about a thousand bucks.
You can bet if residents did “build a driveway” the code guys in the City would be on it for their cut. Plus speaking of neighborhood enforcement, how about have “neighbors” remove couches from the front lawns. How about ticketing people who have driveways but park ass out blocking a sidewalk. There’s a lot of selective enforcement in this city when it comes to the sainted colleges who pay a fee but not property taxes.Driver routinely fly through stop signs and traffic lights but God forbid if you car is just a little ass ended out when trying to negotiate a parking space. All of a sudden you'll get questioned like a crack dealer!
As for his comment about a mud bog, well that’s what your Impact teams are for. That’s where people should be cited. Living in the North end for over 30 years, I have yet to see a “mud bog”. I’ve seen King’s College “women” squatting in my driveway, clueless out of state people blocking my driveway, garbage strewn on my lawn by the pigs who pass through here, red cups and Keystone Light cans all over the place,

people breaking recycling rules and even a COUCH and TV on a lawn but  never…ever a mud bog!
Why any resident would even bother to address city council is beyond me when you get a flip comment like “build a driveway”. If Barrett runs again in 2019 or if one of his cronies takes his seat if he doesn’t, maybe voters should just say, “build a bridge”………….and….you know the rest.

The LuLac Edition #3597, September 14th, 2017

RIGHT WING GOES NUTS....

THEY MIGHT HAVE VOTED FOR A RINO

President Trump (Photo: The White House)

I love the fact that President Trump is willing to make some sort of accommodation with the Democrats an moderate parts of his party. But the right is having a fit. Their heads are exploding because they are shocked the President has changed his mind on things that are near and dear to him. 
Now to be sure, The President will not let go of his base.  After days of silence, he did take after "Crooked Hillary" for her new book. Pretty ironic that the guy who is NOW under INVESTIGATION for maybe obstruction of justice calls her a criminal. But for right now, Trump seems to be moving in the direction that if he needs to get something done, he needs the help of every member of Congress. 
Now before the Republicans get too worked up and the Democrats get too confident, let's remember that this President, this person is a loose cannon. Today he pretty much said there was no deal with the Dems. Like any Trump venture, past, present or future, never trust and always, always verify. Better yet, let HIM make the statement so it's on record. 

THE ABINGTON HEIGHTS SCHOOL STRIKE

Once more a school strike by teachers has reared its ugly greedy head in LuLac land. This time the Abington Heights School district teachers are striking because of the pittance they must pay for their health care. Their attitude is an insult to hard working people who pay much more.
The kicker is that even after these greedy "public servants"  retire, the taxpayers pay their freight.
The time has come to abolish the teacher unions ALL TOGETHER and hire people who will appreciate their jobs.
It of course begs the question…why don’t they strike in the summer? Why don’t they walk the picket line after 3?
That would be “work”, extra work and we can’t have none of that now can we.

Teachers are still another part of the political class that deserve little sympathy and very little respect when they strike.
They care about the kids though Yonk, right?
Yeah, right

MEUSER’S PATH GETTING SMOOTHER

TOOHIL BACKS HIM

State Representative Tarah Toohil issued the following statement in regards to questions on whether she was running for the 11th Congressional seat being vacated by Congressman Lou Barletta in his bid for U.S. Senate. Rep. Toohil stated recently, , "I am a servant of the people, and to know so many have expressed the desire for me to serve in the federal government is truly humbling and inspires me to continue to work harder than ever on behalf of all the constituents I represent." "At this time, and after great consideration, I have decided not to run for congress. Rather, I will support the candidacy of a man who has extensive experience in both the private and public sector, Dan Meuser. Dan's particular work experience and life experience at age 53 is unparalleled. Dan has served as a President of a successful global company, as Secretary of the Department of Revenue (taking it from a D to A- rating under his leadership), as a tireless supporter of conservative candidates and charitable efforts in our community. Dan Meuser is a high quality candidate who has already proven he is ready to lead." "This will be a critical primary. Rather than Republicans challenging one another, we should challenge the hyper-liberal policies of the left that don't fit with our area's values and, importantly, that fail to put America First. I believe Republicans should unite behind the candidate best able to communicate a conservative agenda and ensure pursuit of America First policies, and that person is Dan Meuser." Toohil stated in closing, "Furthermore, with Dan in Congress and me remaining in the State House of Representatives, I'm confident the District would have two strong advocates--on the federal and state level--who respect one another tremendously and who will work well in tandem advocating for the best interests of the people we both represent."
A few things here. Toohil in any other time might have been a formidable candidate. But she is making the smart play. She’s young, popular and can build a record in a very safe seat. Unless she does something spectacularly stupid, Toohil is safe. Her career is set.
This is what the state Republican party does. It clears the path for people who are strong, popular candidates. Meuser might as well start picking out the furniture.

MANGO MAKES HIS MOVE FOR GOVERNOR

GOP candidate (right) Paul Mango (Mango website) 

Mango with President Reagan. (Mango website)

On the Republican side, there seems to be an intriguing candidate running for Governor next year. His name is Paul Mango and here’s a little about him.
Paul Mango's roots in Pennsylvania run deep. His grandfather immigrated here from Italy, and then worked on the railroad that crossed the state; the one that carried the steel and coal helping to build our factories and create countless jobs. Paul's grandfather passed on to him the value and dignity of hard work. During high school, Paul worked as a dishwasher, at a farmer's market stocking produce, and as a scorekeeper at a bowling alley.
Balancing his father's advice to get a college education along with his strong calling to serve his country Paul applied - and was accepted - to West Point. One of his proudest moments was receiving his diploma on graduation day from President Ronald Reagan.
After completing Army Ranger training and jump school, Paul went on to serve America as a paratrooper in the storied 82nd Airborne Division.
While serving in the military, Paul and his wife saved every penny they could so that he could continue his education. He earned a Master's degree in Business from Harvard, an education that will be invaluable for someone whose main priorities as governor will be growing Pennsylvania's economy, creating jobs, and finding innovative ways to do more with less.
Paul then joined one of the most respected business leadership and professional advisory firms in America, where he rolled up his sleeves and helped companies first anticipate and adapt to change. Paul's 25 years as a business leader have provided him with an unmatched skillset for helping Pennsylvania out-compete other states and countries for the jobs of the future.
Despite these remarkable achievements, Paul Mango will tell you that his greatest blessing in life has been his family. While at West Point. Paul met his wife Dawn. Today, they've been married for nearly 35 years. And they've lived in the same Pittsburgh house for 20 years where they've raised their five daughters - one of whom followed her parents' footsteps to West Point and is now serving our country as a First Lieutenant overseas in Korea. Paul and Dawn have also generously supported a variety of veterans' and military-related charities since leaving active duty.
Now Paul Mango wants to take his middle-class values, his military training, business education, and decades of experience solving some of the toughest business problems at America's most admired companies, to fix Pennsylvania's stalled economy, underperforming schools, out-of-control spending and taxation, heroin and opioid epidemic, and end sanctuary cities to make Pennsylvania work again...for all our families. (Mango website)
Here's Mango's statement on his endorsement from Senator Tom Cotton: I am honored to announce that I have received the endorsement of conservative stalwart and fellow veteran, Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR).
Senator Cotton has been a true and unflinching conservative in Washington. I have had the pleasure of knowing him for many years and I can say without hesitation that the Tom Cotton you see today is the Tom Cotton I saw yesterday and I am sure we will still see tomorrow. His commitment to service and our nation is without question, and I look forward to working with him in the weeks and months to come as we take our conservative vision to all of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. This might help in the primary but not so much in the General. But one step at a time I guess.

CARTWRIGHT ANNOUNCES OVER $1.5 MILLION IN HHS FUNDS TO POCONO SERVICES FOR

FAMILIES & CHILDREN

Congressman Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives)

U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced that the Pocono Services for Families & Children received $1,546,043 in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These funds are used for the continuation of high quality, comprehensive, early childhood education.
Head Start is a federal program created in 1965 to address the educational and developmental needs of low-income, pre-school children. Head Start’s comprehensive service system provides social, nutritional, and educational services for thousands of children and their families across the United States. Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher.
“I am a proud proponent of these programs that work to break the cycle of poverty by ensuring children are better prepared for success in school,” said Rep. Cartwright. “Head Start and Early Head Start programs are an important investment in our community and our economy.”
“Pocono Services for Families and Children provides comprehensive, supportive services for young children and their families to promote success in school and life,” said Tim Lee, Executive Director of Pocono Services for Families & Children. “Our agency has been serving the community's most vulnerable young children and their families since 1965 and continues to expand services to better meet the various and unique needs of our community. As the director of the Head Start Program, I am happy to be able to say that we serve 145 kids in Monroe County through this federal funding in before- and after-school programs and are grateful to Congressman Cartwright for his support for this funding.”
Head Start services are funded and overseen by The Office of Head Start (OHS), within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), a division of the Department of Health & Human Services. The AFC promotes the economic and social well-being of children, families, individuals, and communities with leadership and resources for compassionate, effective delivery of human services.

WHEN WILL MARINO GO?

Congressman Tom Marino (Photo: Marino website)

Republican and Democrats  are waiting with baited breath to see when and if Congressman Marino will be named President Trump’s drug czar. The reason I'm hearing for the delay is that there is such a backlog in the White House getting essential personal vetted. Many cite that as the reason for the delay in naming him.But there seemed to be two starts and then a stop.
Meanwhile prospective Republicans and Democrats want to know where Marino will be so they can plan their campaigns. If he resigns, there will be a Special Election. That's a consideration too. The media buyers are also wondering what will happen too.

MATT VOUGH EVENT

Democratic candidate for Luzerne County Council had a nice event Wednesday night at The Red Mill. About 75 turned out to meet and greet the young candidate. Vough is venturing into the political arena for the first time. A highlight of the evening was the gathering of Matt’s classmates from the old Immaculate Conception School off of William street in Pittston. The school and church might be gone but with many ethnic Catholic schools, the bonds stick. Here are a few photos from last night.

Luzerne County Controller Michelle Bednar stopped by. Look for an interview with her in the weeks to come on LuLac.

Here are two crowd shots.

This is a photo of me with Matt’s mom Cindy Vough and his Aunt Loretta Amico. Otherwise known as The Forlenza sisters from The Junction. My family goes way back with the Forlenza family. The family corner store was run by Tillie and Frank. You could get milk and Sealtest Ice Cream just by strolling down the street. Their dad Rudy was our milkman and a type of mentor for me and other young men at Detato’s Market in Pittston. Loretta and I worked together while she checked and I bagged. We are just two of at least a thousand young people in the Pittston area who learned about the working world at that Supermarket owned by the Detato Family.

Here I am with the man of the hour Matt Vough.

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV
4 year anniversary for Emily on WALN TV 
Also Emily is in a competition for Maxim Magazine for a modeling gig. Check out their page and how you can vote for her. Here's the link: https://maximsfinest.com/2017/emily-l-miller

BOLD BOLD COMMUNITY FORUM

This week's guest will be Joe Grandinetti from the NEPA Genealogical Society
Tune in Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on 1400-The Game, NEPA's Fox Sports Radio and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on 105 The River.

SUNDAY MAGAZINE

This Week on Sunday Magazine.
Magic 93's Frankie in the Morning speaks with Karen Thomas from the Penn State Extension about their 4th annual PROSPER 5K Run & Walk, coming up on Sunday October 1st to benefit drug & alcohol programs.
Brian Hughes speaks with Brian Hallock and Doug Calzola from the Knights of Columbus Council 12572, about their 2nd annual Charities Golf Tournament, coming up on Saturday October 14th at the Pine Hills Country Club in Taylor.
Frankie speaks with Jessica Baker about the 5th annual Jamie Baker Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser on Saturday September 23rd at the Dupont VFW.
An encore of Brian's interview with organ donor awareness advocate Tony Harding, about the importance of organ donations, and his own experiences in that field.
And Frankie speaks with Miss Luzerne County Outstanding Teen, Courtney Richards, about the NEPA Scholarship "Purseonality" Auction on Sunday September 24th at 2pm at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs.
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 LIVE

ECTV Live hosts Rusty Fender, David DeCosmo, and Director Mark Migilore welcome John Maday to the program during the week of September 18th to unveil plans for the annual Dragon Boat Races on the Susquehanna River at Wilkes-Barre. He'll also be speaking about other activities along the river this season and next!
ECTV Live can be seen on Comcast channel 19 (61 in some areas) and is aired during the Noon, 6pm and Midnight hours each day of the week. Following Monday's Live program the show will become available on Electric City Television's YouTube channel which can be viewed on your computer.

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 he heartwarming comments on the issues of the day on Webster and Nancy with Karel Zubris.

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!!!!

1977

Our 1977 logo

Glam rock pioneer Marc Bolan dies in a car crash in Barnes, London......Courageous (U.S.), skippered by Ted Turner, sweeps the Australian challenger Australia in the 24th America's Cup yacht race.....Under pressure from the Carter Administration, President of Nicaragua Anastasio Somoza Debayle lifts the state of siege in Nicaragua....North Korean agents abduct Yutaka Kume from Noto Peninsula starting the North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens.......The Petrozavodsk phenomenon is observed in the Soviet Union and some northern European countries……Pete Flaherty in the Carter Justice Department says he will indeed run for Governor in 1978……in Lackawanna County Eugene Hickey the Democratic candidate for Mayor declares he can win the Mayor’s race in a three way battle and forty years ago the number one song in LuLac land and America was “The Star Wars Theme” from the London Philharmonic Orchestra.