The LuLac Edition #4249, March 31st, 2020

MAYBE I’M AMAZED

Our “Maybe I’m Amazed” logo.

MAYBE I’M AMAZED…..that what President Trump once called a hoax is now a big deal. My heavens, if he had just let the experts take over and not defund the area of the government that handles health issues, we’d all be better off.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…..that Minnesota might say that it's the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," but Canada has it beat. The country as a whole has over three million lakes. That means Canada has 60% of the world's total number of lakes within its borders. It must seem like paradise for people who like to fish or boat!
MAYBE I’M AMAZED….but not that there are people in the Wyoming Valley congregating in bunches when they were told to stay inside or in less than group of 10. Kudos to government officials and police for sending them home.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED……that the surface area of Pluto is just under 6.5 million square miles. The CIA Factbook lists the area of Russia to be just over 6.6 million square miles. That makes Russia bigger than Pluto (and much closer to visit). Are you still very upset that Pluto isn’t a planet anymore?
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…that New York City is made up of 50 islands.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…..at how much I miss baseball. Thank heavens for the MLB Network showing classic match up of games. Loved the re-broadcast of the Phillies-Cubs game from ’79 that ended with the Fightin’ Phils winning 24-23.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…..that even though it is spread across five time zones, the entire country of China is set to Beijing time. Having a single time zone in the United States would certainly make things easier. Currently, the USA is spread across six, but a single time zone would make things a little wonky in Alaska and Hawaii.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED….that churches have taken the step in making Masses available for its parishioners via You Tube. Technology can be a wonderful thing. Here’s a service from my church St. Peter and Paul in Plains from this past Sunday.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=13&v=A1pzf9K8zC0&feature=emb_logo
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…that the largest pool in the world can be found at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Chile. It has 66 million gallons (enough water to fill 100 Olympic-sized pools). It's 3,323 feet in length, over twice the length of the next biggest pool. At a cost of $3,000,000, that sounds like a pretty good deal.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED….that every time a member of the WARM team passes away, like Jerry Heller this week the memories of that great broadcast institution come flooding out.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED…..that the longest flight in the world is between Singapore and Newark, New Jersey. Depending on which way you're flying, it takes around 18.5 hours to complete the 9,534 miles of the journey. The flight is so long that it doesn't even have an economy class. Only first-class and business-class arrangements are offered.
MAYBE I’M AMAZED….and sad that the Times Leader has announced it will start publishing their paper four times a week. The reason is of course decreased revenue due to the Corona Virus. The Leader has been in the forefront of supporting community endeavors like the Wyoming Valley Art League and many others. Now is the time for the community to give back to them (The Times Leader) by buying their paper and supporting their business.

The LuLac Edition #4,248, March 30th, 2020

WARM'S JERRY HELLER PASSES AWAY

WARM RAdio Newsnn Jerry Heller passed away today. Here's what we put up on our sister blog, 590 Forever WARM.

https://david-yonki.blogspot.com/

NEWS FROM MATT CARTWRIGHT ON FIGHTING COVID-19

U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) announced new

supplemental federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

(HHS) to northeastern Pennsylvania health centers to meet the evolving COVID-19

needs in their respective communities.

• Rural Health Corporation of Northeastern Pennsylvania - $67,712

• Scranton Primary Health Care Center Inc. - $60,128

• Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers - $72,380

These awards come from funding authorized by the Coronavirus Preparedness and

Response Supplemental Appropriations Act (H.R. 6074) which Cartwright helped enact

earlier this month as a member of the House Appropriations Committee. Funded health

centers may use the awards to bolster their COVID-19 screening and testing, acquire

medical supplies and boost telehealth capacity in response to the pandemic.

“Local health centers have been and will be critical players in our response to COVID-

19,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the House Appropriations

Committee. “This initial funding package is providing much-needed support to health

centers across the country as they work to keep Americans safe during this growing

public health emergency, and more help is on the way. I commend our health centers

and health care workers for their bravery and being on the front lines of this fight in our

communities.”

In addition to H.R. 6074, Cartwright also helped enact the Families First Coronavirus

Response Act (H.R. 6201), to help families stay healthy and make ends meet during the

crisis. Today, the House will consider a third coronavirus relief package — the

Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act (H.R. 748) — a sweeping

$2 trillion package that invests billions in state local COVID-19 response efforts, bolsters

unemployment benefits, and provides direct payments for American families.

The LuLac Edition #4,247, March 26th, 2020

IN CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC, TRUMP ALLIES SAY THEY'RE READY TO DIE FOR THE ECONOMY

Conservative supporters of President Trump are increasingly volunteering to risk death — and implicitly the deaths of elderly and at-risk Americans — from the coronavirus if it will help the economy.
The push for Americans to get back to work in the face of an unprecedented economic downturn began last week but accelerated on Sunday evening, after the president began pushing the message that “we cannot let the cure be worse than the problem itself.” On Wednesday, Trump said he “would love to have the country opened up by Easter,” which falls on April 12. Public health experts say it is impossible to predict now when it will be safe to end social-distancing measures but are virtually unanimous in believing they will be needed beyond then.
On Monday evening, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick explained how the trade-off of saving lives versus spurring the economy worked in his mind.
“I just think there are lots of grandparents out there in this country like me … that what we all care about and what we all love more than anything are those children,” said Patrick, who turns 70 next week, on Tucker Carlson’s primetime Fox News show. “My message is that: Let’s get back to work. Let’s get back to living. Let’s be smart about it, and those of us who are 70-plus, we’ll take care of ourselves, but don’t sacrifice the country. Don’t do that. Don’t ruin this great American dream.” needed beyond then.
On Monday evening, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick explained how the trade-off of saving lives versus spurring the economy worked in his mind.
“I just think there are lots of grandparents out there in this country like me … that what we all care about and what we all love more than anything are those children,” said Patrick, who turns 70 next week, on Tucker Carlson’s primetime Fox News show. “My message is that: Let’s get back to work. Let’s get back to living. Let’s be smart about it, and those of us who are 70-plus, we’ll take care of ourselves, but don’t sacrifice the country. Don’t do that. Don’t ruin this great American dream.”
Wow! This is what is called a cult. Sacrificing yourself not in a war for freedom, not in a just cause but for the American all mighty dollar. 

 Somewhere Jim Jones is smiling ruefully saying, “That’s some powerful Kool Aid those right

wing Trump-ites are drinking.  (aol news, LuLac)

SMERCONISH’S BLUNDER

Michael Smerconish (Photo: Politico)

I usually agree with Michael Smerconish. I actually came to see him at the Jewish Community Center last April. I love his TV shows. But today on radio I was astounded to hear him say it was wrong for the lawmakers to put a provision in the stimulus bill that gave President Trump  carte blanche to do whatever he wanted with the money. Are you serious?
This is the President who has violated all laws regarding his own personal finance. This is a President who has given tax breaks to the rich and screwed the middle class. This is the President who has enriched himself and his business by flouting the law. This is a President who doesn’t know the meaning pf the words blind trust.
Quite frankly, I’m stunned that a savvy commentator like Smerconish can put blind faith and trust in this President on this crucial matter.

MESSAGE FROM MATT CARTWRIGHT

I hope you are well. I wanted to send over a quick email updating you on the COVID-19 situation across Pennsylvania. With over 600 cases in our state and growing, the legislature is considering moving the primary election to June and Governor Wolf has issued a stay-at-home order for Monroe County in PA-08 -- as well as these others:
Allegheny
Bucks
Chester
Montgomery
Delaware
(The city of Philadelphia was already under this order)
This announcement came as COVID-19 claimed another life in Monroe County, as well as its first in Lackawanna. I’m keeping these northeastern Pennsylvanians and their loved ones in my thoughts today.
If you are under a stay-at-home order in Monroe or any of the other impacted counties, it’s important to ask yourself: “Do I really need to leave the house?” I know it’s hard to be away from family and friends, and I know it’s even harder for the people who don’t know how they’re going to pay their bills if they can’t go to work or open their business. But we are going to beat back this pandemic by practicing social distancing and remaining in our homes for the time being, except for the most essential tasks. In the meantime, I will keep fighting to make sure working people and the most vulnerable among us are taken care of in these difficult and uncertain times.
Even if you’re not currently impacted by the Governor’s order, it’s important to still follow CDC guidelines and practice social distancing as much as possible. When you absolutely must be out and about, make sure you frequently wash your hands and keep 6 feet apart from all other persons.
This virus may impact our lives for quite some time. It’s important for us to unite and face this threat together.

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD GOLD 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.

ECTV PREVIEW

Social isolation is the norm for us right now because of the Coronavirus. But it's a way of life, and more important than ever now, for organ donor recipients! Tony Harding, a donor recipient and donor advocate, joins ECTV PREVIEW host David DeCosmo, via computer video link during the week on March 30th to discuss the danger and the need for more organ donors.
PREVIEW is seen 3 times daily on Comcast channel 19 and on the electric city television YouTube page.

BUDDY RUMCHEK

Want to hear some great parodies on the news? Tune in to WILK Radio at 6:20 and 8:20 AM on Mondays. As Ralph Cramden used to say, “It’s a laugh riot!”

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!

1980

Our 1980 logo.

The Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC) is formed in Lusaka, Zambia….The Mariel boatlift from Cuba begins……New York City's Transport Works Union Local 100 goes on strike, which continues for 11 days…The 1980 United States Census begins. There are 226,545,805 United States residents on this day.and forty years ago the number one song in
LuLac land and America was “Too Hot” by Kool & the Gang.

The LuLac Edition $4,246, March 25th, 2020

WRITE ON WEDNESDAY

This week’s message has to do with elections. A letter to the editor urges that we use a mail in ballot. Here’s the letter. Makes sense.

VOTE BY MAIL-IN BALLOT

Editor: I read it is strongly recommended that voters take advantage to vote by the no-excuse mail-in ballot. I agree with this decision due mainly because of the virus outbreak. It doesn’t matter what political affiliation you are, please vote by mail. Applying online is easier and quicker. I know this by personal experience. I applied for mine online on March 12 and within two hours, the application was processed and approved.
Don’t let the virus scare keep you, the voter, from voting in the primary. It is also a personal decision if the voter decides to vote in person. However, please take advantage and use the mail-in ballot for the primary.
David Thole
MOUNTAIN TOP

The LuLac Edition #4,245, March 23rd, 2020

TRUMP, THE HEALTH CRISIS AND ONE MAN'S OPINION

Today our friend Dr. Joe Leonardi weighs in on the way Donald Trump is handing the Corona Virus outbreak \in the county.Dr. Joe has an interesting perspective having been a candidate for Congress in 2006 and being part of the Medical community for over 30 years. Here's his take on the President's empathy.

Short Story Scribe

Shop Short Story Scribe

President Trump Finally Displays Empathy

I tried to make it through the Sunday morning news programs today. The only one I managed to get to was ABC’s This Week. There seems to be an effort by the news people, especially Martha Raddatz, to divide President Trump and Dr. Fauci when it comes to a potential drug, or drug cocktail, treatment for COVID-19.
Anyone who has read anything I have written knows I have a great deal of admiration for and confidence in Dr. Fauci and have been unimpressed with President Trump’s early handling of the current crisis. If you have talked to be in person, you know how pissed off I am when it comes to the President.
With that in mind, I can’t believe I am about to write this, but when mentioning the potential treatment, on this issue, President Trump is handling it the better way.
If you have a moment, please read on.
Dr. Fauci is the foremost expert on infectious disease. I am ecstatic he is with the NIH and we have his expertise advising the President and keeping us informed. The thing is, it has been a long time since Dr. Fauci has been, for that matter if ever, in clinical practice. When he is giving information, he is giving it to a pool of reporters or a camera. He is more an academic researcher than clinician. That mindset requires data and hard facts. What he calls “anecdotal” we in practice refer to as “case studies.” Sometimes what occurs in a patient care situation can be reproduced in a controlled setting, other times it can not. For the academic, if it can not be reproduced, its value is negated – to a clinician, if we see it working on actual patients in our offices or treatment facilities, well, we don’t give a shit what the research says, we are using whatever means necessary to get people well.
The President is trying to give hope to people who are scared. It is the first and only time I can honestly say I believe the President is demonstrating empathy for those with whom he is so out of touch.
If you have another moment, please continue to on.
I can only convey my experience as a clinician. I have not been a pure academic and I have never been a researcher – I need what they do to make clinical decisions, but in the end, I am the one who needs to make the call. And since I am a chiropractor and not a medical doctor, my decision making lacks the ability to prescribe drugs, or do surgery, but I need to be aware of those options, and the best specialist available if necessary to make a referral. My patients turn to me to make the call, not the academic in the classroom or the researcher in the lab. I am the one they trust. And it is an honor and responsibility to which, above all else, I am committed.
I have been in practice for more than twenty years, and in those years, I have treated more than five thousand patients. Out of all those patients, I remember the ones I did not help the most. I may not remember their names or faces, but I remember their conditions, and those I could not help, have allowed me to become a better practitioner, and have taught me both the limitations of my chosen profession, and the limitations of my own skills and abilities.
Out of those few hundred I could not help. I remember seven specifically.
- There are five women whose medical doctors missed their multiple sclerosis.
- There is the first person I ever had to tell had a tumor on his spine. Yes, there were others. I remember his anger as I told him, and how, in his anger he blamed me, because I found it.
Those experiences taught be to be thorough, and just because the patient had been seen my other doctors, did not mean all diagnostic avenues had been explored.
- But there is one, one who wakes me from my sleep at least once a week.
If you will indulge me one moment more.
She was twenty years old and in my medical terminology class. One occasion, she stayed after class and related to me that she had been having headaches for more than five years, she had seen her family doctor, a neurologist and a pain management specialist, and yet, she couldn’t get any relief. At that time, I did not treat students, it was a policy of mine, one which changed after her.
I referred her to a colleague, and she was treated for several weeks, still with no relief. I finally agreed to see her as a patient.
While gathering her medical records, I was using a protocol recommended to me by the man I always credit with teaching me how to be a chiropractor, Dr. Violini. She was having positive results, but still, not as good as I hoped. As I read five years of medical records, I discovered not a single doctor ordered an MRI.
Considering the severity and chronicity, I ordered the diagnostic imaging.
As I am typing, in my mind’s eye, exactly as the dream the hits me once a week –
– In my old office, she is sitting in a chair directly in front of me. Her face is smiling, she has been doing better. I am sullen. Up to this point, other than the headaches, she is a happy twenty-year-old young woman. I take a deep breath. I see her mood slightly change. She knows what I am about to say isn’t going to be good.
“You have a brain tumor.” I soften my voice, but that doesn’t soften the words.
As was then, I see it, a solitary tear streaks down her left cheek, over her chin and down her neck, it is soon followed by one from her right eye. Then there are so many, one can’t be distinguished from the next. Sobs soon become wails. For the first time before, or since, I reach across and bring her head to my shoulder. In no time, the fabric of my shirt goes from tear-stained to translucent.
In a voice that I somehow managed to keep steady and calm, I told her all would be okay, although I had no idea if that was the case. I had arranged for her to be seen by our area’s best specialist. He didn’t take her insurance, but I convinced him to see her at no cost.
She ended up going out of the area for treatment, and sadly, I never saw her in my office or class again. I don’t know how she made out. Even though I don’t remember her name, I have never forgotten her face.
The point of writing this?
Sometimes, hope is all the frightened have upon which to hold. For all of his many flaws, in this matter, President Trump is trying to give hope, and for all of his excellence, in this matter, I think Dr. Fauci may have forgotten just how important hope can be.

The LuLac Edition #4,244, March 19th, 2020

BIDEN STREAK CONTINUES

Former Vice President Joe Biden has extended his leader over Senator Bernie Sanders with wins in Illinois, Arizona and Florida on Tuesday night. The wins were overwhelming and puts him in a very good lead for the nomination. It is so good that Bernie Sanders is reassessing candidacy.
In the debate on Sunday night, Sanders came across as an angry old man who was trying to litigate the past. The Vermont Senator of course called out the fact that we need universal coverage for all. The Health Care system needs to be addressed but not annihilated in this country. The fact that he was trying to bring up a 30 year voting record of Biden’s pretty much told you he had nothing.
Biden’s victory speech made all the right moves and hit all the right notes. With more primaries coming up, Biden seems poised to win big. It is time for the two men to meet and end the reign of Donald Trump. It will very hard to beat him given the Trump cult following but Sanders’ supporters should know by NOT supporting Biden, their chance of even getting one scintilla of what they want in terms of change in this country might be lost forever.

BERNIE SANDERS SNAPS AT REPORTER

Bernie Sanders barked at a CNN reporter after he asked about a time frame in which the senator might decide to suspend his presidential bid.
"I'm dealing with a f---ing global crisis,” the Vermont senator told CNN’s Manu Raju on Wednesday. "Right now I'm trying to do my best to make sure that we don't have an economic meltdown and that people don't die. Is that enough for you to keep me busy for today?"
Good for Bernie. I’m sure he is trying to figure out a way to end his campaign gracefully and this was the last thing he needed.

MESSAGE FROM SENATOR JOHN BLAKE ON COVID-19

Senator John Blake (Photo: LuLac archives) 

The COVID-19 pandemic is evolving and changing by the minute. It is imperative that we all follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) to slow the spread of this disease and ensure that our local health systems do not get overwhelmed.
My office is currently working remotely based on recommendations by the CDC and PA DOH. We are still available and can be contacted at 570-207-2881 or by email at senatorblake@pasenate.com.
Please read below about the latest information on COVID-19 and the recommended closures of a number of public places and non-essential businesses. Additionally, thank you to the Scranton Times for allowing free access to their site to ensure that everyone can stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding COVID-19 over the days and weeks to come.

KING’S COLLEGE STATEMENT ON COVID 19

We find ourselves in an extraordinary time. COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, has changed our world, and it has done so quickly. Each of our lives – and the lives of each of our neighbors both near and far – has been disrupted in profound ways. I pray that this message finds you and your family safe and healthy. I write to connect with you, let you know that we are praying for you and your family, and share with you steps that King’s has taken to respond to this challenge.
The safety and well-being of the King’s family is my top priority. In the interest of our campus community’s safety – based on the guidance of experts, government leaders, and other key advisors – we have taken quick action to modify much of our school’s work, most notably teaching and learning. A few key actions taken:
Suspended all in-person classes at least through April 13 (effective end of day on Wednesday, March 11).
Resuming in-person classes through an on-line format beginning tomorrow (March 19).
Directed all residence hall students to return home to be with their families (no later than Saturday, March 14). Of course, we have made provisions for the limited number of students who do not have somewhere to go.
Transitioning all employees whose work does not require them to be at a campus facility to working remotely (effective today, March 18).
Cancelling or postponing all College events and College travel at least through April 13. This includes the cancellation of all athletic and alumni events. The President’s Dinner (scheduled for April 18) has also been cancelled.
Following direction by the Diocese of Scranton, Masses will continue each weekday at 12:05 p.m., but will only be available online via live-streaming. A link to the live-stream can be found here: https://www.kings.edu/chapel-stream. This includes the live-streaming of the next monthly Alumni Memorial Mass, which is scheduled for tomorrow (March 19) at 12:05 p.m.
For more information on the College’s actions relating to COVID-19, please see the dedicated web page at: https://www.kings.edu/mykings/covid-19-information
Please know that despite these disruptions we continue to operate – our teachers will be teaching, our students will be learning, and our staff, administrators, and Holy Cross priests and brothers will continue their service. The members of our Campus Ministry and Institutional Advancement teams remain available to support you however we can. For Campus Ministry services, please contact Fr. Thomas Looney, C.S.C., at thomaslooney@kings.edu or Fr. Jarrod Waugh, C.S.C., at jarrodwaugh@kings.edu. For Alumni Relations services, please contact Beth Doherty at alumni@kings.edu or (570) 208-5900 ext. 5732. We will continue to assess and evaluate circumstances as they arise, and we will continue to communicate about alumni-related programming and events as appropriate.
I appreciate that we encounter these challenges during the sacred season of Lent. I hope that our daily Lenten reflections serve as a source of comfort and peace. They will continue daily through Lent. From March 17 through March 25 we are participating in a novena to Blessed Basile Moreau, founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, for the healing of those who have contracted the coronavirus. It is important that we find quiet moments of reflection and prayer in these days. Please pray for those afflicted. Please pray for those who care for the sick and suffering. Please pray for our students and their families.
I am so impressed by and grateful for the extraordinary effort, resourcefulness, goodwill, and grace demonstrated in these past days by our students, staff, faculty, administrators, parents, alumni, and my brothers in Holy Cross. This is a time like none of us have experienced before. It has been challenging, and it will continue to be challenging. No matter the challenge, however, together we will persevere. Our mission deserves it. Our mission demands it.
As I reflect upon who we are, what we do, and how we proceed onward in the face of adversity, I think of important language proclaiming the vision for our beloved school:
Inspired by the teaching and example of its namesake, Christ the King, who taught by example and ruled by love, King’s forms graduates who will champion the inherent dignity of every person and will mobilize their talents and professional skills to serve the common good.
You, my dear alumni, are those graduates. You, my dear friends, are our partners in this mission. I pray that you each find your path to serve the common good in these perilous times. Our world needs you.

CARTWRIGHT UPDATE ON COVID-19

Congressman Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives) 

I wanted to give you an update on everything we’ve been doing in Congress to combat the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.
On March 4th, we passed H.R. 6074, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. This legislation provides for $8.3 billion in emergency funding for federal agencies to respond to the coronavirus threat. It includes $2 billion to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) for researching a vaccine, $1.3 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), $20 million for the Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans program to help small businesses impacted by this crisis, and more. Thankfully this legislation has been passed by the Republican Senate and signed by President Trump.
On March 14th, we took the next step and passed H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This legislation took even more action to help everyday Americans impacted by this public health crisis. It provides for free diagnosis testing for COVID-19, strengthens unemployment benefits and food assistance programs, and expands paid leave options for millions of people. We are hoping that the Senate passes this legislation soon!
We’re also working on a third bill to provide even more relief to everyday Americans and workers, and I’ll have more details on that soon.
I know this is a time of great anxiety, and I want to give thanks to everyone who is doing their part by following the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. I also want to give a very special thanks to our first responders, medical staff, service workers, and all those who still have to go to work to keep the lights on at key institutions.

STARBUCKS CHANGING OPERATIONS AS THEY NAVIGATE COVID–19

As the situation with COVID–19 is extremely dynamic we will continue to make proactive decisions that are grounded in care for our customers and partners (employees), based in transparency and science, while also doing our part to help stop the spread of the virus.
Over the last week, as more communities, including the federal government, have called for increased social distancing to help contain the virus we are evaluating our store operations daily. Every community's public health needs are different, so we want to make sure we play a constructive role by taking responsible actions, guided by the CDC and other experts, to continue to do what's right for our customers and partners. You can always find the latest information from Starbucks here and track store hours and closures via our website or the Starbucks app.
Many of our customers have also asked how we will care for our partners. We have shared with our partners that they will never have to choose between working or taking care of themselves. For details on the comprehensive support and resources we are providing please visit here.
Starbucks® Rewards
For our Starbucks Rewards members we recognize that the current environment may limit your ability to redeem your Stars. Therefore, we will delay the expiration of all Stars scheduled to expire between now and June 1, 2020. For more information about changes to the Starbucks Rewards program please continue to visit our website.
These are truly uncharted times and we're learning right alongside you as we navigate COVID–19 together. We are proud of the swift decisions we are making, and we will always do what's best for our customers and partners.
As the situation continues to evolve, we may make some more changes, but through it all we will lead through the lens of Our Mission and Values which is to inspire and nurture the human spirit — one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.
Thank you for your continued loyalty and support.

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD GOLD 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.

ECTV PREVIEW

PREVIEW host David DeCosmo welcomes Lackawanna County's United Way CEO Gary Drapek to the program during the week of March 23rd to discuss efforts to deal with the growing problem of older adult isolation! 

PREVIEW is seen 3 times daily on Comcast channel 19 and on the electric city television YouTube page.

BUDDY RUMCHEK

Want to hear some great parodies on the news? Tune in to WILK Radio at 6:20 and 8:20 AM on Mondays. As Ralph Cramden used to say, “It’s a laugh riot!”

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!

1980

Our 1980 logo.

A mine lift cage at the Vaal Reefs gold mine in South Africa falls 1.9 kilometres (1.2 mi), killing 23……The Norwegian oil platform Alexander L. Kielland collapses in the North Sea, killing 123 of its crew of 212…….The Silver Thursday market crash occurs in the United States and forty years ago the number one song in LuLac land and America was “Call Me” by Blondie.

The LuLac Edition #4,243, March 18th, 2020

WRITE ON WEDNESDAY

Our "Write On Wednesday" logo.

This week's "Write On Wednesday" is quite topical. Here's what the Citizens' Voice recommended.

CARONAVISRUS: WHAT TO DO NOW! 

Now that the coronavirus pandemic has officially reached Luzerne County, the situation calls for prudence, but not panic.
The county and Wilkes-Barre have taken common-sense steps to limit contact between people seeking and providing government services while ensuring most of those services will continue, albeit on a limited basis.
Citizens should follow their example by taking the following reasonable, but not onerous, measures recommended by the responsible agencies:
Don’t hoard. There is no shortage of food or essential items, except for temporary, localized ones caused by panic buying. It’s fine to stock up on items that will limit your trips to the store, but leave some for others.
Don’t clog hospital emergency rooms or medical offices. If you have what you suspect are coronavirus symptoms, call your doctor, who will determine whether you should be tested and where. Call 911 only if you have life-threatening symptoms.
Practice social distancing. Avoid crowded spaces and unnecessary trips to public places.
Keep it clean — not just your hands, but any “high touch” surfaces such as tabletops, countertops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, phones, keyboards and tablets. The virus can survive for several hours or even days on some surfaces, according to the World Health Organization.
Don’t spread rumors in person or on the Internet. There are plenty of unsubstantiated claims about the virus out there. Rely on reputable sources. The Centers for Disease Control website cdc.gov/coronavirus is among the most authoritative.
Be kind. That supermarket clerk spending hours each day restocking empty toilet paper shelves is most likely having a harder day than you. Treat people right.
Be patient. The CDC recommends that large-scale gatherings be cancelled for the next eight weeks, giving some idea of how long experts think it will take for the pandemic to fade.
We still don’t know how severe the effects will be, but following these best practices will help limit the spread and the damage.
Stay safe.

The LuLac Edition #4,242, March 17th, 2020

KING'S COLLEGE MASS TO BE LIVE STREAMED

Dear Members of the King’s College Community,

During these difficult days, as a Catholic Christian community, we recognize the importance of prayer that connects us to a community of faith. To provide an important connection to prayer and community, King’s College will livestream the 12:05 p.m. Mass each weekday from the Chapel of Christ the King. Please know that the intentions of the members of the King’s community (students, alumni, faculty, staff, board members, benefactors, and friends) are prayed for in the Chapel of Christ the King.
The 12:05 p.m. Mass can be accessed here. This link will bring you to the Fr. Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. Camera page. Scroll down slightly to view the Mass.
Please join us in prayer at Mass or through your personal prayer.

Peace,

Fr. Thomas P. Looney, C.S.C.
Director of Campus Ministry

THe LuLac Edition #4,241, March 17th, 2020

A MESSAGE FROM JOSEPH A. BANKS

We take great pride in being part of your most memorable moments and have been working hard to meet your evolving needs as the spread of COVID-19 (the coronavirus) continues. That will continue.
At the same time, nothing is more important than the safety and wellness of our teams, customers and communities. We have been fortunate that there haven’t been any reported cases of COVID-19 linked to a Jos. A. Bank store, but based on the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), we have made the decision to temporarily close all of our Jos. A. Bank stores through the end of March to help prevent further spread of the coronavirus in our local communities.
Our employees will be paid throughout this period, and we will continue to serve our customers – both through our online business and with limited services to ensure you are able to pick up merchandise previously ordered for in-store pick-up. More specifically, there are three ways we will continue to serve customers while our stores are closed:
You can continue to shop online as usual. Our e-commerce business at josbank.com – including distribution and shipping – is not affected by the store closure.
Rental, custom and ship-to-store orders can be picked up as planned. We are maintaining a reduced workforce at our stores to facilitate order pick-up – including tux rentals, tailored and custom items – and to support fulfillment of online orders. If you had previously shipped online merchandise to a store, those items may be available to be picked-up. If your order is available for pick-up, a store associate will contact you directly to arrange an appointment.
We will work with you as your plans evolve. If your event is postponed for any reason, we will maintain your order details and measurements, so the order can be reactivated with a simple phone call whenever the event is rescheduled. If your event is cancelled, you can choose a gift card and an additional 20% discount for future use, or a full refund. It is completely your decision.
We will be actively monitoring the situation and relying on guidance from the CDC, WHO and local health authorities to guide our decision on when we will reopen our stores. Thank you in advance for your understanding and continued support during this interim period.
We wish you all good health and will provide additional updates as decisions are made.

The LuLac Edition #4,240, March 17th, 2020

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY 2020

This year's St. Patrick's Day celebrations have been pretty much non existent since the emergence of the CoVid-19 scare. Here are just a few songs of St. Patrick's to get you through.

The LuLac Edition #4,239, March 17th, 2020

MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSMAN CARTWRIGHT ON COVID -19

Congressmen Cartwright with your blog editor.

There is a lot of anxiety surrounding COVID-19 (also known as “coronavirus”), and as you get emails from brands and institutions explaining their plans I want to reiterate the scientific information that we currently have.
The primary symptoms of coronavirus are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Sore throat and body aches have also been reported in some cases.
If you believe you have the symptoms of COVID-19 you should plan to stay home and isolate yourself from others. Contact your primary care physician, and inform them before going in that you suspect you may have COVID-19 so they can prepare their facility. Do not leave the house except to seek medical care, and wear a facemask to prevent spread to others.
Some of the best ways to prevent contracting coronavirus are also the most simple. The Mayo Clinic recommends:
Washing your hands often with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Covering your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean.
Avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick.
Avoiding sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you're sick.
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces you often touch.
Staying home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.
There are a constant slew of reports in the news and on social media. You can find the most reliable and up-to-date information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website or the Pennsylvania Office of Health website.
There is a lot of anxiety surrounding COVID-19 (also known as “coronavirus”), and as you get emails from brands and institutions explaining their plans I want to reiterate the scientific information that we currently have.
The primary symptoms of coronavirus are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Sore throat and body aches have also been reported in some cases.
If you believe you have the symptoms of COVID-19 you should plan to stay home and isolate yourself from others. Contact your primary care physician, and inform them before going in that you suspect you may have COVID-19 so they can prepare their facility. Do not leave the house except to seek medical care, and wear a facemask to prevent spread to others.
Some of the best ways to prevent contracting coronavirus are also the most simple. The Mayo Clinic recommends:
Washing your hands often with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Covering your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean.
Avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick.
Avoiding sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you're sick.
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces you often touch.
Staying home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.
There are a constant slew of reports in the news and on social media. You can find the most reliable and up-to-date information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website or the Pennsylvania Office of Health website.

The LuLac Edition #4,238, March 16th, 2020

MESSAGE FROM SENATOR BOB CASEY ON COVID 19

I know there's a lot of concern right now about the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Pennsylvania and across the country, so I'm reaching out to address your concerns and ensure you have the accurate information you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.
My main priority first and foremost is to protect families and communities within the Commonwealth. As of March 14, Pennsylvania has 47 presumed positive cases of COVID-19. I want to let you know my office is closely monitoring the situation and has been in direct contact with federal, state and local government and public health officials to ensure Pennsylvania receives all necessary resources to keep our communities safe and prepared. In Washington, I worked with my colleagues to pass an emergency funding bill that includes significant resources for Pennsylvania, including at least $16.9 million for public health emergency preparedness activities. I have been focused on calling attention to the additional steps I believe we need to take to mitigate harm for those who are most at risk, such as older adults and people with disabilities. And I will continue to support localities in Pennsylvania that have announced decisive measures to keep their communities safe, like canceling large events and encouraging employees to telework when possible.
Public health experts have indicated that the new coronavirus is spreading more rapidly in the United States, and have emphasized the steps that people should take regardless of whether they are at heightened risk for the disease. Currently, the best advice for protecting your health remains to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; disinfect frequently-touched objects and practice appropriate social distancing. Individuals at higher risk should consider limiting time spent outside the home.
Your public health officials are here to help. The Pennsylvania Health Department will continue to keep Pennsylvanians updated on state response efforts and have made available different resources and emergency planning guidance. These are available at Health.PA.Gov, by calling 1-877-PA-HEALTH or by following their social media pages @PAHealthDept. Additional information and resources can be found at CDC.Gov/Coronavirus. If you are traveling, please take care to heed the warnings from the State Department.
My office is also adjusting its operations in the interest of protecting the health and safety of my constituents and my staff. The House and Senate Sergeant at Arms have ordered limited access throughout the United States Capitol complex from 5:00 PM on March 12 through 8:00 AM on April 1, 2020. As a result, my Washington staff will be working remotely and independently to serve the people of the Commonwealth, and all official business will be conducted by e-mail, phone or videoconference. Out of an abundance of caution, my offices in Pennsylvania have also transitioned to virtual meetings and are not able to offer in-person meetings or drop-bys, but will be open and responding to constituent needs and requests. If you have any questions or comments that do not require you to speak with a member of my staff, please feel free to contact my office online and we will respond as quickly as possible. I will continue to re-evaluate the steps my office is taking to ensure everyone's safety, and will make additional changes as necessary.
As we learn more about the coronavirus, I urge all Pennsylvanians to follow the instructions of their medical providers, public health professionals and federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The people of Pennsylvania wish a speedy recovery to those who have contracted COVID-19, and we stand ready to help those patients and families through this challenging time.

The LuLc Edition #4,237, March 13th, 2020

13 QUESTIONS

Our 13 Questions logo.

1. The Biden resurgence recently. Have you seen anything like it before?

Not really. You can compare it to John Kerry in 2004 and John McCain in 2008 when both were floundering. But in both case, even after making a comeback, there was no exit from the opponents like you saw this time. In the course of two days, the field was cleared down to two. The speed and quickness of this, well that is something I didn’t see coming or have seen before.

2. If Biden does win the nomination, any guesses on his pick for Veep?

Not at this point but I can say this. Biden will have an embarrassment of riches to choose from when he does try to pick a running mate. Each candidate with the exception of a few can be seen as a reasonable alternative to Mike Pence, Paul Ryan in 2012 and Sarah Palin in 2008. There is not a questionable one in the bunch. All have been vetted and are qualified.

3. Will the Pennsylvania primary be crucial on April 28th or will it be an after thought?

A lot of that will depend on what happens tomorrow in Michigan and future states. Ronald Reagan in 1976 was beaten pretty well until the Texas primary which came later in the cycle. After that, he almost caught up to President Ford.

4 . Do you have any thoughts on why Matt Cartwright has been the focal point of GOP attacks and do they think he is vulnerable?

The GOP Congressional committee never got real serious with opposition to Cartwright until Trump carried Pennsylvania. Then with redistricting, the 8th became a little more competitive. That’s the main reason why I feel they are going after him.

5. What do you think of the New York Yankees hiring a batting coach who happens to be a woman?

I think it is fabulous and about time. I was a little surprised to se the Yanks do so because they were slow in integrating men of color. It’s a good move.

6. Do you get to listen t the radio at work and if so, what do you tune in? I bet it’s Talk Radio!

Ha!. Hope you didn’t bet anything. No I listen to WVIA FM, WRTI FM (two classical stations, The River and Max 102. I also have CDs that I put in once in a while too. But whatever it is, the decibels are low.

7. Do you think tribute bands have been done to death?

God yes. The exception to that rule though is our friend Beatlle Edd’s Sinatra show coming up in My at The Kirby.

8. If you were B arack Obama, when his >Library opens, would you invite Donald Trump?

Hell no. Pence maybe, not old Diaper Don though.

9. Lent is here. Giving anything up?

Nope.

10. St. Patrick’s Day meal favorite. Corned Beef or Ham with your cabbage?

Can I have both?

11. Do you think Bloomberg’s campaign was a bust?

For him, I guess. I think he had a lot of baggage to begin with and got caught unprepared. But I won’t be sending him any checks.

12. I hear you’re upset Susan Collin might lose her seat?

You heard wrong.

13. Are you ready for the RailRiders?

Yep season tickets bought and ready to enjoy.

The LuLac Edition #4,236, March 12th, 2020

BIDEN TAKES THE LEAD IN MINI TUESDAY BALLOTING

(Photo: CNN)

Primary voters in the key battleground state of Michigan as well as Missouri, Mississippi, and Idaho went for Joe Biden Tuesday night. North Dakota and Washington were still up in the air. With reporting in Washington still going on, it's a tie between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders. Washington is a completely vote-by-mail system and results have been slow. Sanders took North Dakota.
But what has happened is Biden has increased his delegate lead and has become the presumptive front runner in terms of likability and delegates.

SANDERS STAYS IN RACE

Bernie Sanders says he's moving ahead with his Democratic presidential campaign.
He told reporters in Burlington on Wednesday that he's not quitting despite key primary losses to Joe Biden the night before. The Vermont senator's path to the presidential nomination considerably narrowed after decisive losses to Biden in Michigan, Missouri and Mississippi.
Sanders acknowledged “we are losing the debate over electability" to a candidate many Democrats think will have a better chance of defeating President Donald Trump in the fall. But he said he wants to force Biden to confront issues of economic inequality and other issues important to Sanders' supporters.
Sanders will stay in but I think he has reconciled himself to the fact that he might not do well in terms of popular vote and delegates. What he might be satisfied with is moving Biden to the left for the General Election. I have no doubt Sanders will support the nominee, let’s hope his supporters will.

DEBATE ON SUNDAY CRUCIAL TO BOTH

The debate between Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden on Sunday night will be crucial to both. Sanders will get a chance to ask pointed questions to Biden. Biden will have the chance to answer them and make a case for himself.
Sanders needs to be less strident, Biden needs to be measured and think, really think before he speaks. The debate will also test Biden’s stamina in one on one contest.
The Arizona debate takes place in Phoenix on Sunday, March 15 at 8 p.m. (5 p.m. PT) and will be broadcast live on CNN and Univision.

CARTWRIGHT, WILD CONCERNED ABOUT MEDICAID CHANGES

Congressman Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives)

Brian Myszkowski from The Pocono Record recently reported that members of Congress Matt Cartwright and Susan Wild have joined seven of their colleagues to voice concern over Medicaid changes they say could put beneficiaries at risk.
On Feb. 6, Cartwright and Wild, along with members of the Pennsylvania Democratic Congressional delegation, sent out a loud-and-clear message in opposition of the Healthy Adult Opportunity, a demonstration that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at the Department of Health and Human Services claims will “increase flexibility” for states to expand health care options.
The Healthy Adult Opportunity, which was introduced on Jan. 30 by the CMS, would allow for states to extend Medicaid coverage to adults under the age of 65 who do not otherwise qualify on the basis of disability, with the possibility to include other groups as well.
However, in order to participate in the opportunity, states have to opt for a cap on federal financing.
States that meet set performance standards and opt for the cap could access between 25% and 50& of the federal savings if their actual spending falls under the cap.
Currently, Medicaid, which is administered at a state level, is jointly funded by states and the federal government. The federal government provides matching payments without a pre-set limit.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, capping federal financing might result in challenges for health care programs. The organization cited the fact that “U.S. territories operate Medicaid under a federal cap, which has been set too low to meet enrollees’ needs,” and that such programs are “inflexible when responses to emerging health issues and natural disasters” occur.
Cartwright, Wild and the other members of the PDC made it clear in a letter to Seema Verma, MPH, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services, that distributing Medicaid funding as lump sum annual payments could lead to “tough choices that would put beneficiaries at risk.”
“Let’s be clear about what the Medicaid block grant plan would do: it would put health care for the most vulnerable among us on the chopping block,” Cartwright said. “Across our state, nearly three million people are covered by Medicaid, including 800,000 who gained coverage as a result of the expansion.”
Cartwright and the group were particularly concerned that the Healthy Adult Opportunity would make room for states to limit access to prescription drugs and impose eligibility criteria that could limit health care access to those in need, among other issues.
“Medicaid is also a lifeline for rural hospitals,” Cartwright said. “Before the expansion, we lost two hospitals in Northeastern Pennsylvania alone, both from financial distress. When your local hospital closes, your health care suffers, even if you still have your own insurance. Now is not the time to turn back the clock on this successful program that has helped millions of Americans get the care they need.”
On Feb. 6, Wild announced via a Facebook post that she would vote in favor of a House resolution to block the HAO proposal.
“Bottom line: the administration’s Medicaid block grants would hurt the very people Medicaid is intended to help,” Wild said in the post. “This is an outrageous attack on hard-working families struggling to make ends meet.”
The CMS has stated that the HAO will “enhance the Medicaid program’s integrity through its focus on accountability for results and quality improvement, making the Medicaid program stronger for states and beneficiaries.”
The letter from the Democratic Congress members, however, called out the HAO as “a cynical ploy to cut benefits and raise costs for the millions of individuals who benefited from Medicaid expansion over the last several years,” and applauded Gov. Tom Wolf for rejecting the proposal.
“The ‘Health Adult Opportunity’ proposal is yet another attempt to undermine what is working with our healthcare system and to cut access to affordable healthcare for seniors, children, people with disabilities, and low-income adults,” the letter reads. “We oppose this proposal and urge the Administration to reconsider, and instead work with the Congress to expand – not restrict – access to affordable, quality healthcare for all Americans.”

MEDIA MATTERS

WALN TV

BOLD GOLD 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.

ECTV PREVIEW

"PREVIEW" host David DeCosmo welcomes retiring Red Cross Executive Director Bill Goldsworthy and his successor, Michele Baehr, to the program during the week of March 16th to unveil plans for a merger of chapters this April.

PREVIEW is seen 3 times daily on Comcast channel 19 and on the electric city television YouTube page.

BUDDY RUMCHEK

Want to hear some great parodies on the news? Tune in to WILK Radio at 6:20 and 8:20 AM on Mondays. As Ralph Cramden used to say, “It’s a laugh riot!”

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!

1980

Our 1980 logo.

Archbishop Óscar Romero is killed by gunmen while celebrating Mass in San Salvador…….

A mine lift cage at the Vaal Reefs gold mine in South Africa falls 1.9 kilometres (1.2 mi), killing 23……The Norwegian oil platform Alexander L. Kielland collapses in the North Sea, killing 123 of its crew of 2…and forty years ago the number one song in LuLac land and America was “Working My Way Back to You/Forgive Me, Girl” by The Spinners.