The LuLac Edition #4,379, March 4th, 2021

 

THREE LUZERNE COUNTY TRUMPANZEES OFF OF ELECTION BOARD

 TRUMPANZEES IN LUZERNE COUNTY OUSTED.....BY ALL COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBERS

The faces of power grabbing ousted Election Board members (Photo: Times Leader)

Urban, Gould and Dombroski-Gephardt

 Ten  Luzerne County Council members voted Tuesday to remove council colleague Stephen J. Urban and two citizens from their county Election Board seats.

 Unanimously.

The strong bipartisan council majority took a stand because the county home rule charter states no election board member shall be or have been an elected county official at the time of appointment or for four years prior.

The following council members voted to vacate the election board seats held by Urban, Joyce Dombroski-Gebhardt and Keith Gould: Chris Perry, LeeAnn McDermott, Harry Haas, Matthew Vough, Linda McClosky Houck, Kendra Radle, Robert Schnee, Sheila Saidman, Walter Griffith and Tim McGinley.

Last week Urban, Dombroski-Gebhardt and Gould tried to install Steve Junior as the chair. The chef county lawyer said it was against the charter but they did it anyway, These three Trumpanzees thought their emulate old Diaper Don. And thmb their noses at the charter and the law.

They were shit canned and are pretty much a public embarrassment.

 

BIDEN'S STIMULUS VOTE WILL HAVE LENGTHY DELAY AFTER GOP FORCES BILL TO BE READ ALOUD

Senator Small Johnson of Wisconsin (Photo: AP)

 Republican Senators are pricks. Plain and simple. The biggest one of all is Senator Small Johnson of Wisconsin. This slime ball has effectively stopped the progress on the bill by using an obscure technique to stop your stimulus checks.

Small Johnson plans to force all 600 to 700 pages of the bill to be read aloud before the Senate will begin formally debating the proposal and amendments.

 "I'm going to make them read that thing," Johnson said in an interview with local talk radio station 1130 WISN on Wednesday. "It will probably take about 10 hours."

 Senator Ben Cardon, a Maryland Democrat, told reporters at the Capitol on Wednesday, that the delay shouldn't have too large of an impact on the ultimate passage of the bill.

 "I don't think there's a problem with it," he said. "I just feel sorry for the reading clerk."

 Senate Minority Whip John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, confirmed that the reading will take place at the opening of the bill and will be on top of the standard 20 hours allowed for debate on legislation.

This is nothing but a mean spirited delay attempt. Then Small Johnson whines about the Dems being partisan.

Like I wrote earlier, Ron Small Johnson is the biggest prick in the Senate!

 

GOP SENATORS OFFENDED BY TWEETS

BOTTOM LINE: THE REJECTION OF NOMINEE IS A COMBINATION OF SEXISM AND RACISM

President Joe Biden's pick to head the Office of Management and Budget, Neera Tanden, has withdrawn her nomination after she faced opposition from key Democratic and Republican senators for her controversial tweets.

Her withdrawal marks the first high-profile defeat of one of Biden's nominees. Eleven of the 23 Cabinet nominees requiring Senate approval have been confirmed, most with strong bipartisan support.

 Tanden’s viability was in doubt after Democratic West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and a number of moderate Republicans came out against her last month, all citing her tweets attacking members of both parties prior to her nomination.

 Manchin, a key moderate swing vote in the Senate, said last month in a statement announcing his opposition that “her overtly partisan statements will have a toxic and detrimental impact on the important working relationship between members of Congress and the next director of the Office of Management and Budget.” Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, meanwhile, cited Biden’s own standard of conduct in opposing Tanden, declaring in a statement that “her past actions have demonstrated exactly the kind of animosity that President Biden has pledged to transcend.”

 Tanden needed just 51 votes in an evenly-divided Senate, with Vice President Kamala Harris acting as a tiebreaker. But without Manchin’s support, the White House was left scrambling to find a Republican to support her.

 One potential Republican vote, Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, told reporters earlier Tuesday on Capitol Hill she still had not yet made up her mind on Tanden’s nomination.  (aol news) 

 REPS. CARTWRIGHT AND STEFANIK INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO PROTECT AND RESTORE NATIVE PLANTS IN NATIONAL PARKS

Representative Matt Cartwright (Photo: LuLac archives)  

 U.S. Representatives Matt Cartwright (D-PA-08) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) introduced the Native Plant Species Pilot Program Act in the U.S. House to protect and restore native plant species in national parks throughout the United States.

This bipartisan legislation would establish a pilot program in National Park Service (NPS) regions to prioritize the use of native plant species and prevent the spread of invasive non-native species, which can outcompete native plants and transform entire ecosystems, causing irreparable harm to local wildlife. It would also direct the Park Service to review existing data and study the cost-effectiveness of using native plants. U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) have introduced the bill in the U.S. Senate.

 “Democrats and Republicans agree that America’s public lands and parks are treasures worth protecting,” said Rep. Cartwright. “Promoting the native plants and ecosystems in places like Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area would ensure we can explore and enjoy them today and in the future.”

“As Co-Chair of the House Invasive Species Caucus, I am proud to help reintroduce this legislation to combat the spread of invasive species and protect native plants within our diverse North Country ecosystems. Protecting native species is critical to maintaining our natural landscapes, and this legislation will help preserve them for generations to come,” said Rep. Stefanik.

“Maine’s greatest treasure is its natural beauty and cultural history, attracting millions of visitors each year,” said Sen. Collins. “The Native Plant Species Pilot Program Act would encourage the National Park Service to protect native plants such as blueberry barrens, white pines, and wildflowers, as well as prevent the future spread of invasive species across the State of Maine.”“Native plants play a vital role in protecting our shared public lands. Bringing more native plants back will help us combat invasive species, provide food and shelter for local wildlife, and adapt to the looming threat of climate change,” said Sen. Cantwell.

Increasing the use of native plant species on federal lands is beneficial for wildlife, human health and the environment. They play an important role in natural water filtration, erosion control and capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, of the 20,000 known native plant species in North America, around 30 percent are at risk of extinction. In Northeastern Pennsylvania for example, the eastern hemlocks in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which are foundational to the area, are being threatened by an invasive insect, according to the National Park Service.

 Some of the myriad advantages of native plants include requiring fewer pesticides and fertilizers; requiring less water and maintenance since they have adapted to local weather conditions; providing shelter and food for local wildlife; and preventing disruption to native wildlife and larger ecosystems.

 This legislation is endorsed by Garden Club of America, Friends of Acadia, and Scenic America.

 Additional co-sponsors of this bill in the House are U.S. Reps. French Hill (R-AR-02), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02) and Jackie Speier (D-CA-14).

 CASEY, EVANS PUSH TO SUPPORT VICTIMS OF GUN VIOLENCE

 Senator Bob Casey (Photo: LuLac archives)

 Each day in the United States, about 100 individuals are killed with guns, totaling more than 36,000 deaths annually. Approximately 100,000 more Americans survive gun-related injuries each year. To address the challenges faced by these survivors and their friends, families and caregivers, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) introduced the Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act, which would establish an interagency Advisory Council to gather and disseminate information about the resources, programs and benefits that can help victims of gun violence.

 “We can’t stop pushing for the common-sense measures that will help prevent gun violence from happening,” said Senator Casey. “But we must also acknowledge the reality of our gun violence problem and make sure that survivors, families, friends and caregivers have the support they need to recover and manage their longer-term needs. That’s what this bill is aiming to do, and I hope that Congress will take it up. There are millions of Americans who have been affected by gun violence and could benefit from this legislation.”

 “I’m optimistic about the chances of gaining support for our bill,” Congressman Evans said. “This bill has nothing to do with gun rights and everything to do with helping victims of crime. This is something Americans across the political spectrum should be able to support. I thank Senator Casey for his leadership on this issue.”

 More on The Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act:

 Many programs and benefits at the federal, state and local levels that may help gun violence victims meet their needs can be difficult to find and navigate, as victims noted in a 2018 Philadelphia Inquirer feature titled Shot and Forgotten. The legislation would establish an Advisory Council to help victims of gun violence—including survivors and the families, classmates, coworkers and other associates of individuals affected by gun violence—learn about and access the resources, programs and benefits that could help them meet a wide range of personal needs.

 The interagency Advisory Council would be composed of federal representatives from HHS, DOJ, the Department of Education, HUD, the VA, the Social Security Administration and other agencies, as well as victims of gun violence and victim assistance professionals like medical professionals and social workers.

The Advisory Council would be required to assess the needs of victims of gun violence (including medical, legal, financial, educational, workplace, housing, transportation, assistive technology and accessibility needs), as well as gather and disseminate information about the resources, programs and benefits that could help victims meet their needs.

In addition to disseminating information to the public, the Advisory Council would be required to submit to Congress a report on these resources and identify any gaps in policy that the government could address.

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Kamala Harris (D-CA) and U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (D-FL-22), Alcee Hastings (D-FL-20), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Joseph D. Morelle (D-NY-25), Donald M. Payne, Jr. (D-NJ-10), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Grace Meng (D-NY-06), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33) and Mike Doyle (D-PA-18) joined in this effort.

 The bill is supported by Everytown For Gun Safety, CeaseFirePA, Squirrel Hill Stands Against Gun Violence, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, March For Our Lives, the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, States United to Prevent Gun Violence, Survivors Empowered Action, Newtown Action Alliance and Junior Newtown Action Alliance.

 

FRED KELLER, SEDITIONIST, UNPATRIOTIC CONGRESSMAN WANNA BE ON WILK

 

 

Keller with Trump. 

I heard the fake Congressman (he invalidated the vote in Pennsylvania so he must not be a real Congressman) was on WILK Thursday afternoon. He was whining about the President's Stimulus plan. No original thought here, just bashing California (because there was infrastructure in the bill, little baby wqhiner Freddie needs to know that infrastruture brings jobs!) and how so much money was not going to the right people. This guy VOTED against unemployment extensions, CoVid relief and help for cities and the middle class. 

Again, the talking points of an entitled Republican who dosgraced our country and his district on January 6th when he voted for his Lord and Savior Donald Trump to be the President over the ultimate winner. 

Leader: NO. Christian: NO. Seditious: YES. Liar: Yes. PATRIOT: No way. 

At least little Freddie came out to play, I'll give him that. Meuser is hiding out because he knows his stand was both an insult to the country and Constitution he professes to love. 

 

 MEDIA MATTERS

 

WALN TV

 

BOLD GOLD COMMUNITY FORUM

This week's guest will be Adam Marco, Media Relations Coordinator for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.Tune in Sunday morning at 6 on 94.3 The Talker; 6:30 on The Mothership 1340/1400 am, 100.7 and 106.7 fm; and at 7:30 on The River 105 and 103.5.

BOBBY V’S DOO WOP SOCK HOP

SUNDAY NIGHTS!

 

1987 

 

 

Our 1987 logo.

Donald Regan resigns as White House chief of staff……Mike Conley triple jumps world indoor record (17.76m)……NCAA cancels SMU's entire 1987 football schedule for gross violations of NCAA rules regarding athletic corruption…..Ray Dandridge, 3rd baseman in Negro Leagues, eleected to Hall of Fame……6.8 earthquake hits Ecuador, kills 100…..Belgium ferry "Herald of Free Enterprise" sinks; 192 die…..Gavaskar becomes 1st cricket batsman to score 10,000 Test runs...The Tower Commission probes Iran-Contra affair…… USSR resumes nuclear test at Eastern Kazakh/Semipalitinsk USSR…..Wash blocks 20 Indiana shots tying NBA regulation game record… Mike Tyson beats James 'Bonecrusher' Smith by unanimous decision in 12 rounds in Las Vegas for WBC / WBA heavyweight boxing titles and in 1987 the number one song in LuLac land and America was "Don't Dream It's Over" by Crowded House.

The LuLac Edition #4,478, March 3rd, 2021

 

WRITE ON WEDNESDAY

Our “Write On Wednesday” logo.

This last week the big news was the supposed takeover of the Luzerne County Election Board by the Trumpanzees. One County Councilman Steve Urban Junior took advantage of the system after voting against the certification o the recent election. He showed no love of democracy or common sense.

Another County Council member Kendra Rable stood on principle and resigned her post as the Vice Chair of the Luzerne County GOP. Here are two articles from the Times Leader outlining the person of principle and well, just the pathetic person trying to increase his small political stature  with a power grab.

DIAMONDS TO KENDRA RADLE FOR TAKING A STAND

Diamonds to Luzerne County Council Member Kendra Radle for taking a principled stand against the actions of County Councilman Stephen J. Urban and the county election board’s two Republican members. Stressing she remains a staunch and proud Republican, Radle stepped down as Luzerne County Republican Party vice-chair “with regret” out of concern that the party might support Urban the Usurper, who accepted what is almost surely an illegal appointment to be election board chair by said board members, Joyce Dombroski-Gebhardt and Keith Gould. The two appointed urban despite unequivocal advice from solicitor Romilda Crocamo that such a move violated the county charter. “I can’t in good conscience support elected officials who feel they are above the law,” Radle said. Far from supporting Urban, the county party leaders should condemn him and the two board members, proving Republicans are “the party of law and order.”

 

THOSE BEHIND AUTOCRATIC POWER-GRAB AT ELECTION BOARD MUST GO

Partisan doesn’t begin to describe it.

Try craven, or despicable, or repugnant. Certainly, shameless fits.

 Or better yet, let’s call it what it is: Utterly undemocratic.

County Election Board members Joyce Dombroski-Gebhardt and Keith Gould — both Republicans — made a mockery of their solemn duties and turned Luzerne County election governance into an autocratic, lawless troika of self-serving GOP wingnuts when they ignored advice of an attorney paid to guide them and appointed County Councilman Stephen J. Urban as new board chairman.

To be perfectly clear, this has absolutely nothing to do with which party these three scofflaws belong to. Their action, and their mealy-mouthed, hubris-filled justification for the unjustifiable, would be reprehensible regardless of political affiliation.

 Everything about this screams “autocratic power-grab.”

 Gould and Dombroski-Gebhardt made the move without debate or even time for comment from anyone who might be watching the virtual meeting.

 They did it when the election board is down two members due to resignations over exactly this kind of partisan hatchet job, and knowing full well County Council will fill one of those seats, as required by the county charter.

They did it despite the fact that, last year, the election board itself agreed on a procedure to require that, if a chairman is appointed with only three members sitting on the board, all three must vote for that appointment.

They did it against the clear and unequivocal advice of Luzerne County Chief Solicitor Romilda Crocamo, who pointed out the county charter clearly (and we believe rightly) bars any county council member from sitting on the election board, declaring they understood the law better than the lawyer.

They did it as an end-run around the duly elected 11 county council members who rejected a proposal by Council Member Walter Griffith to change the charter so council members could sit on the election board.

They defied anyone who cares about the democratic and legal process to take them to court, setting the stage for a waste of taxpayer dollars to undo their egregious action.

In short, two unelected officials (four of the five seats are filled by county council, with those four picking the fifth member) decided they could ignore not only the law, not only the elected county council members, but every one of Luzerne County’s 210,000-plus registered voters.

 It doesn’t get much more anti-democratic than that.

Council Member Linda Mclosky Houck was absolutely right in calling for a special county council meeting as soon as possible to vacate the seats of Gould and Dombroski-Gebhardt under terms of the county charter which allows such action when appointed board members have “willfully and knowingly violated sections of the charter.” She also called for the other obvious action: Vacating the chairmanship seat brazenly usurped by Urban.

We call for one more action, though someone so ready to disregard the law likely lacks the compunction to do the right thing: Stephen Urban Jr. should resign from County Council. A person who willingly defies the legal advice of the county’s solicitor — going so far as to essentially dare someone to launch a court challenge against his election board appointment — has no place in government. —Times Leader