Lehigh Valley Ramblings

Who Are You Voting For ... and Why?

2013-05-21T00:00:00.002-04:00

Instead of telling you for the 55th gazillionth time which candidates I like and why, I'll let you use this space to make your last minute picks in whatever race you want to discuss. Is democracy really dead in Allentown? Will John Callahan get more than 50% of the vote in the NorCo Executive race? Can Dean Browning beat the man who beat him a few sort years ago? Will Bob Donchez and Willie Reynolds be able to work together, once the politics ends at 8 PM? Will racist Tricia Mezzacappa become the standard bearer for NorCo Republicans?

Nancy Run Fire Co. Getting a Makeover

2013-05-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

3 of Nancy Run's 5 bays are too small for modern fire equipment

From a fire company expansion to an ammo purchase, public safety issues dominated the May 20 meeting of Bethlehem Township Commissioners.

Nancy Run Fire Company will start a $1 million expansion this Summer, according to trustee Bill Andress. Bethlehem Township Commissioners, at their May 20 meeting, approved a building additions and renovations plan by a 4-0 vote. Commissioner Tom Nolan was absent. Although Commissioners have given a green light, the volunteer fire company still has a zoning hearing scheduled for May 29, at which dimensional variances will be sought.

This truck nearly touches ceiling

Nancy Run Fire Company, located on Easton Avenue, has existed since 1931. Manned by forty volunteers, and with no paid staff, this fire company responded to 850 calls last year. It has grown from a department that mostly put out agricultural fires, to one that responds to motor vehicle accidents, automatic alarms and even assists the City of Bethlehem. As its service expands, so has its need for space.

The biggest change, according to Andress, will be expanding the ceiling space in three of the fire company's five bays. At 12'4", these bays are too small for modern fire apparatus. The fire company will also add training rooms, and will retain 900 sq ft for future expansion.

This expansion is being funded, in part, by a $100,000 grant from the Pa. Department of Community and Economic Development. Andriss is also hopeful for some funding from the Gaming Authority. No Township resources have been expended.

In other business, Commissioners authorized Township officials to apply for an annual $20,000 grant for DUI enforcement. Township Manager Howard Kutzler explained that police use this funding for 24 "events" every year. Most are roving patrols, with only one sobriety checkpoint.

Finally, Commissioners set aside $14,799.20 for the purchase of ammo for police. Kutzler told Commissioners that what used to be a two to four week waiting period is now 14-18 months, if a state contract is pursued. With an outright purchase, it's still a four to six month wait.

Nancy Run Fire Co. first established in 1931, is getting a makeover

Ott, the God Candidate

2013-05-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

Whether it is the Fake Rev or a devout Muslim, I'm very leery of people who claim God is on their side. But it happens all the time. During the Civil War, just about every general except Grant claimed God was on his side. Abraham Lincoln finally set one of them straight. “Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.” Too bad Lincoln never had a chat with Scott Ott, Lehigh County Exec candidate.

Four years ago, he very nearly propelled himself into office by leaning heavily on the evangelical Christians he got to know as a preacher. He made sure that the Epistle of Ott, also known as "Don Cunningham Attacks Lehigh County Churches," was delivered to churches throughout the Lehigh Valley. Never mind that Cunningham was only concerned about one church, the one that was violating its nonprofit status with Ott.

Dean Browning is a pretty religious guy, too. He actually goes to Church on Sundays, and I believe that he's an evangelical Christian himself. Last Sunday, volunteer Ben Long invited Dean to worship with him and his parents at Faith Church. Dean went. He was there to pray, to be on God's side. So he wore no campaign buttons and made no effort to play politics. He had no hand outs, and made no remarks. He was just going to church.

Later that day, Ben [he's also been a volunteer for Charlie Dent and Ryan Mackenzi] received an anonymous text message from 610-417-5232. Ben was told to pray about who he's supporting. "I know who God is supporting," the text claims. As it turns out, 610-417-5232 also happens to be the number of Ann Marie Slavick. She's the Vice Chair of the Lehigh County Republican Committee.

Looks like Ott is trying to present himself as the Messiah again.

I called Tim Benyo. He told me God can't vote in Lehigh County because He lives in Northampton, and is registered independent.

PFA Order Filed Against Disgruntled Caseworker Jim Gregory

2013-05-20T17:37:00.001-04:00

Senior Judge Lawrence E Brenner issued a Protection from Abuse Act Order this afternoon against disgruntled Northampton County Human Services caseworker Jim Gregory. Pending a full hearing on May 31, Gregory has been ordered to stay away from his girlfriend, surrender his firearms, and make no attempt to contact her in any way, even through third parties.

In a sworn affidavit, Gregory's girlfriend, whom I decline to name, recites a pattern of abuse that became life-threatening last week.

Before last Wednesday, he had punched her while driving, choked her and headbutted her.

On Wednesday, things got worse.

"He kicked me in the gut and knocked me backwards out of nowhere. I asked him why he did that. I threw the phone. I went to leave the room. He grabbed me by my neck and threw me onto the bed and was strangling me. He got on top of me and was punching me in the head. I grabbed the pillow and stuck [it] in front of my face. I was pinching him to stop. He grabbed me again. He bit me by my wrist. He stuck his finger in my eye sockets and was pushing hard. I kept trying to scream for help. He was still trying to strangle me. I somehow got away from him. I went downstairs and grabbed my keys ... ."

On Thursday, she contacted police, who filed charges against Gregory. On Friday evening, police told Gregory not to contact her. But he has ignored that advice, attempting to contact her over 100 times since his conversation with police. He also told his girlfriend's mother to bring her to the magistrate's office to drop the charges.

He's grown increasingly more angry, and has begun sending text messages telling her he will destroy her and ruin her in any way he can.

He has also, according to the sworn affidavit, impersonated his girlfriend in blog comments here.

Gregory's girlfriend first tried to seek a PFA Order on Friday afternoon, but was told she'd have to wait until Monday to file, or seek an emergency order from a Magistrate through the Bethlehem police. She tried contacting Bethlehem police. An officer who is friendly with Gregory, himself a former police officer, tried to talk her out of it, according to the mother.

Gregory is former President of Bethlehem City Council and works with mentally ill people for Northampton County. In recent weeks, he has called for the removal of virtually every supervisor in his department, as well as Executive John Stoffa.

According to his girlfriend's sworn statement, "He is manic and is having a breakdown."

Donchez is the Better of Two Good Candidates For Bethlehem

2013-05-20T00:38:00.001-04:00

Public safety is the core of Bob Donchez' campaign

As an outsider, the Bethlehem Mayoral race really surprised me. Willie Reynolds is an excellent candidate who has worked his ass off in this campaign, knocking on thousands of doors and energizing a group of enthusiastic volunteers. He is a leader. He deserves to be Mayor. Just not yet.

As much as I like Willie, I like Bob Donchez even more. You would not know it from his campaign, which was unnecessarily negative. But in every other way, he symbolizes everything that is right about the Christmas City. On Council, and while governing, he has been a consummate gentleman who looks for the good in other people. I like his strong emphasis on public safety, which in my opinion, should always be a Mayor's first priority. I also appreciate his realistic understanding of City finances. Even Mayor Callahan has stated that Bethlehem still faces a few tough years, thanks primarily to a massive pension payment and growing health costs. Bethlehem may be in the middle of an "economic renaissance," as Willie insists, but its financial situation is still precarious.

Willie has matured and has grown more and more independent during his time on City Council. But I question whether he has the same commitment to public safety as Bob. He also appears to pander, or put more kindly, is taking his case to certain special interest groups. He refused to vote for a much-needed tax hike. He reached out to the LGBT community in a news conference, not because it is a particularly burning City issue, but because the gay community votes and, more importantly, give lots of money to favored candidates. Part of Willie's Winning Our Neighborhood program is an appeal to the anti-fracking element. Though that issue is only remotely connected to Bethlehem, it will attract environmentalists, who also vote and make contributions.

Willie is certainly in better touch with the young urbanista and twitterati than Bob. But Bob has the rest of Bethlehem wrapped up. I do think Reynolds represents Bethlehem's future.

NorCo Centralized Human Service Construction Begins

2013-05-20T00:00:00.003-04:00

Raymond Greene, former VA Director

On May 17, before a crowd of about seventy people, Northampton County officially broke ground on a new centralized human services building at 2801 Emrick Boulevard in Bethlehem Township. This project was approved by a 8-1 County Council vote in February, as a 15-year lease for a 3-story, 66,375 sq ft building on 5.36 acres, with 256 parking places, at a cost of about a million dollars a year in rent. After five years, the County will have an option to buy the property.

Polaris Properties, which owns the tract, expects to have the steel by July, and to complete construction by next March. Polaris has agreed to pay prevailing wages for the construction, which means this would be a union job.

CYF caseworkers ready to build it themselves

Stoffa has previously called a centralized human services building a "golden opportunity to do something terrific" for the 18,000 people who use the County's human services at two different buildings

The Governor Wolf Building, located at 45 N 2d St in Easton, is a 52,171 sq ft schoolhouse, built in 1893. Purchased by the County in 1986 for $912,000, it is home to 173 human services workers. It needs $3.3 million in capital repairs and improvements over the next 5-10 years. Employees who work there complained about caving ceilings and lead paint exposure.

Ken Kraft looks for a union shovel

The Martin J. Bechtel Building, located at 520 E Broad Street in Bethlehem, is a 28,000 sq ft facility, built in 1962. Purchased by the County in 1993 for $763,000, it houses 70 human services workers. It needs $1 million in capital improvements and repairs over the next 5-10 years.

These building are now on the market, with an anticipated $2.8 million in proceeds, which will be used for improvements at the new Bethlehem Township facility.

Kathleen Dilts, a CYF caseworker who felt strongly about the project, picked Stoffa up when he despaired that it would ever happen. On her own, she and another CYF caseworker prepared a slide presentation that depicted the grisly conditions at the Governor Wolf Building, where one of the worries was making sure that children on supervised visitation were not exposed to lead paint chips. When they presented their findings to Council, most of the opposition vanished.

Sheriff's Honor Guard handles the colors

At Friday's groundbreaking, Dilts spoke for the caseworkers. (See video here). "We're so excited that we're finally going to get this new building where, not only the caseworkers can come and feel safe, but all of our clients can get all of the services they so desperately need, in location; which I think is key, for most of our clients have a number of difficulties."

Stoffa (see video here) called the building a commitment to 18,000 Northampton County residents "who did not choose to get a mental illness; citizens who did not plan on being born with an intellectual disability; persons who never expected to become addicted to drugs or alcohol; children who did not ask to be sexually abused or physically harmed by their caretakers; and all of us who are aging, one day at a time, to the point that someday we will need someone to help us dress or eat.

Despite a bad cold, Peg Ferraro grabbed a shovel

"It will be a new place for our veterans, without having to labor up a hill, to get into a building.

"To me, this building was always about clients and families. It should never be named after a person. It belongs to the people of Northampton County - a decent building where people are accepted, valued and helped in their path through life.

"So often in the past, the places in the country where the services are provided in this building, have been provided in places that are shabby, old and neglected. I'm so glad that today we dedicate a brand new building to these services where one phone call and one building will get you the services that you need."

Critics of the project predicted that Bethlehem Township officials would throw up all kinds of roadblocks. But Township Manager Howard Kutzler, along with Commissioners Paul Weiss and Marty Zawarski, attended the groundbreaking. Weiss (see video here) pledged to make the process "as smooth and seamless as possible. ... I think we're all looking forward to you'all being our neighbors. We look forward to that."

Peg Ferraro, Ken Kraft and Barb Theirry, who voted to sue Stoffa the night before, have suddenly disappeared.

Sheriff Randy Miller and Corrections Director Arnie Matos have a friendly rivalry about their respective color guards. Matos notes that Miller has no bagpipe or singer. "What we lack in quantity, we make up for in quality," insists the Sheriff.

Meet NorCo Council Candidate Frank Hesch

2013-05-20T00:00:00.002-04:00

I spoke to GOP NorCo Council candidate Frank Hesch before Thursday night's meeting. Frank points to his experience in the financial services industry, growing up with his family's automotive business and finally, his leadership role for the past two years in the Whitehall Chamber of Commerce.

"I know I can provide value to Northampton County," he concludes.

Hanover Township Revenues Up 24% Over Last Year

2013-05-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

Hanover Tp Supervisors, with CPT John Wittmaak, at Armed Services Park

Hanover Township Supervisors learned that their finances are in good shape during their May 14 meeting. Independent Auditor Todd Bushta, in a review of 2012's revenues and expenditures, has issued what he calls a "clean report" in the accounting of $23,821,814 in net assets at the end of the year. Total revenue was $8,840,837 of which $5,090,316 came from taxes. Expenses were $7,907,171, leaving the Township with a surplus of $933,666.

One piece of very good news is that the Township's debt service. Though it's currently set at $500,000 per year, it will drop significantly in 2016 to about $147,500 per year. "I don't think any municipality can make that claim," stated Township Manager Jay Finnigan.

On another financial front, Treasurer Ryan Kish told Supervisors that revenues are up 24% while expenses are down 13% from over the same period last year.

"I guess we should keep our Treasurer," joked Chairman John N. Diacogiannis.

Public Works Director Vince Milite explained one way in which expenses have been reduced. Changing electricity providers to Patriot Energy has saved the Township $15,000 in its electric bills over the past two years.

Milite also reported that his department has just finished installing 136 new traffic warning signs throughout the Township. In 2011, the Township installed new traffic advisory signs.

Supervisors also awarded a $246,537 road paving contract to Hanson Aggregates, located in Stroudsburg, for this year's road paving.

Hanover Tp Says Thanks to Our Armed Services

2013-05-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

Armed Services Park is located on Route 512.

On Armed Forces Day, May 18, Hanover Township paid homage to the 2.27 men and women serving in the United States armed forces in a ceremony at Armed Services Park. About thirty people listened to brief remarks from Congressman Charlie Dent and CPT John Wittmaak, Commander of CO C, 228th BSR. But as always, The Dream Kids stole the show with their singing.

LeRohn "Dan" Dreysher performed taps, something he has now done at area remembrances nearly 2,800 times.

Dream Kids Amber Glose, Jillian Skerchak, Christina Karabyik and Hailey Durner

Color Guard SPC Lucas Lucier, SFC Donald Lotting, PFS Sarah Tolley and PFC Oliver Burgos arr soldiers with the Pa. Army Nat'l Guard, Alpha Company, 228th BSB, 28th Infantry Division

LeRohn "Dan" Dreysher, a WWII vet who served in the U.S. Navy, has now performed "Taps" nearly 2,800 times

Without these guys, nothing happens. Public Works employees Marty Limpar, Jim Skinner, Matt Hartzell & Duane Breidenbach put it all together

The reason d'etre for Armed Services Park

Republicans! Don't Vote for Tricia Mezzacappa

2013-05-19T15:55:00.000-04:00

Tricia Mezzacappa is one of seven Republicans seeking five at-large seats on Northampton County. As woman with a good last name n a crowded field, I'd say her chances are pretty good. But if she succeeds and is elected by Republicans as one of their candidates, it is very likely that she will drag down every Republican candidate in the County. She is that bad. Here's some of her past.

1999 - New Jersey Commissioner of Education affirms her dismissal as a Business Manager at a New Jersey School. She "had left work without permission twice and, on occasion, was uncooperative and resistant to direction."

2004 - Mezzacappa files for bankruptcy in New Jersey (04-24451-ref).

4/5/11: Mezzacappa summons Easton police over a beeping cabbie. According to several witnesses, including the cabbie, she used the "N" word with respect to her neighbors. An Easton police officer reports, "her vocabulary was tinged with hints of racial bias." She also threatens to get rid of Easton police, once she's elected.

4/13/12: Mezzacappa applies for a concealed carry permit, listing as references two people she knew would oppose her application. She lists Executive John Stoffa and my Attorney, Rick Orloski, as her supposed references.

May 2012: In a defamation action filed against her, Mezzacappa filed this statement in Court: ""I have had to seek medical attention to properly handle my anxiety, fear and stress. It is the opinion of my physician, that I must be sedated with medicines that are included on the Schedule of Class IV Controlled Substances , for all matters involving Bernie O'Hare, to quell the situational anxiety I have suffered at the hands of Mr. O'Hare. It is my opinion (as a Registered Nurse of 10 years), that due to the potency of this medication, I would be unfit to stand trial, or provide my own defense pro-se."

June 2012: Mezzacappa leaks her own application. In an email to Sheriff Randy Miller, she demands to know why her license is taking so long. She sent copies of her email to a number of people: Easton Mayor Sal Panto, State Rep. Bob Freeman, Assistant County Solicitor Jill Mancini and Easton Police Chief Carl Scalzo.

11/15/12 - Mezzacappa convicted of disorderly conduct after a profanity-laced tirade at West Easton Borough hall, during which two witnesses testified that Mezzacappa threatened to kill Borough Council President Kelly Gross.

January 2013: Mezzacappa loses her posting privileges at The Express Times website after posting this death fantasy three times:

Maybe I'M scared, but I dont think I'm paranoid, or a gun nut. See, law enforcement doesnt always work for insignificant nobody's like myself. They dont always serve and protect, either. When armagedon comes a runnin towards my house, I stand armed and ready. I picture armegedon about 5 ft 9 and balding, little eyeglasses on the tip of his nose, and enough fat flaps to insulate a bull. Deep breath, aim, shoot, and....one hollow point goes right through his skull, he's dead before he hit the ground, kersplat....PERFECT

February 2013: Mezzacappa ejected from an Easton gun shop, where she was circulating her nomination petition without permission.

3/7/13: Judge Anthony Beltrami issues order barring Mezzacappa from filing stalking complaints against me or Ron Angle without first getting the Court's permission.

4/11/13: Mezzacappa sues The Express Times for reporting about her online impersonation of a former candidate.

4/11/13: DA John Morganelli approves harassment prosecution of Mezzacappa, based on evidence that she was impersonating a former candidate online, pretending to have his support, and that she continued the impersonation after she was asked to stop.

4/21/13: Now posting as Pigface817 at The Express Times websiter she tells one reader that his mouth needs "acid wash." Speaking of West Easton Boro Council Prez Kelly Gross, Mezzacappa states, "Word is, Gross already had her head bashed in once, (years ago) but never learned her lesson," Mezzacappa states, referring to a brutal assault inflicted on Gross when she was a caseworker at KidsPeace. "People with less restraint than Mezz would have twice bashed her head not agaisnt a wall, but through it," claims Mezzacappa. "Gross is a nutcase who needs to be removed from office for good."

5/13/13 - DA John Morganelli approves harassment prosecution of Mezzacappa, based on evidence that she is following West Easton Borough Clerk Jill Garcia in a public place.

5/16/13: Default judgment filed against Mezzacappa in my defamation suit against her.

Jim Gregory, Lounge Singer

2013-05-19T02:20:00.000-04:00

If he loses his job with Northampton County, it's nice to know that Jim Gregory has a back up plan.

Updated 11 AM: According to his alter ego, Tom Foolery, "Gregory's IQ on Stanford-Binet test for Mensa was 128..Just missed then." He also claims, "if I were Gregory, you'd be missing in action. Gone from this earth, lol.. Get the drift?"

Glenn Reibman at Hanover Tp Armed Services Park

2013-05-18T14:36:00.002-04:00

Glenn Reibman

I did not recognize him at first in his Lafayette College regalia, but County Executive candidate Glenn Reibman was at Hanover Township's Armed Services Park this morning for their annual remembrance ceremony. He promised that, though I support John Callahan, he'll still talk to me.

Reibman and I have had numerous differences over many years, far too numerous to mention here. But to his credit, he has always been a gentleman to me.

You might see Reibman at one of these events. You might see Callahan. You'll never see Lamont McClure.

Callahan, Samuelson Endorse Willie Reynolds in Bethlehem

2013-05-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

Before a small, but very enthusiastic crowd of about seventy supporters, Bethlehem Mayor John Callahan endorsed Willie Reynolds in the Bethlehem Mayoral race yesterday afternoon at Payrow Plaza. Callahan was joined by State Rep. Steve Samuelson, who also endorsed Reynolds.

Both Callahan and Samuelson condemned the negative campaign mounted by Reynolds' opponent, Bob Donchez. In fact, Callahan criticized himself for not speaking out sooner. "I chose not to get involved because I have my own race to run," he explained, adding that he had intended to remain neutral.

Getting involved will hurt Callahan among some Donchez supporters who might have considered voting for Callahan. He's already being criticized by opponent Lamont McClure. "The mayor now wants to instruct you on who the next mayor of Bethlehem should be," huffs the asbestos lawyer. But it's also honest and shows leadership, two qualities I find lacking in McClure.

Reynolds, who walked to this little shindig from his home near Liberty High School, said he intends to keep pushing until Tuesday. Reynolds was also joined by Bethlehem City Councilman and Bethlehem City Democratic Committee Chairman Michael Recchiuti; Council member Karen Dolan; BASD President Mike Faccinetto; BASD Directors Shannon Patrick, Aurea Ortiz and Basilio Bonilla; and former Chairman of the Bethlehem City Democratic Committee, Jack Burke.

LC Comm'rs Offer Prayers, Best Wishes for Bill Hansell

2013-05-17T23:00:00.000-04:00

As a result of unexpected health concerns, Lehigh County Exec Bill Hansell has stepped down. The Board of Commissioners issued a joint statement yesterday, thanking Hansell for his service, and offering prayers and best wishes,

Hansell, a former Commissioner, was appointed last summer to finish the unexpired term of Don Cunningham, and has led county staff in beginning implementation of priority-based budgeting and performance measurement, along with the usual leadership responsibilities of a 2,000-person organization.

"Bill cares deeply about good governance," said Board Chair Lisa Scheller. "He stepped in at a difficult time, and got up to speed on the budget and other issues quite rapidly. We're saddened to hear of his illness and wish only the best for Bill, Connie and the family."

DA Jim Martin Endorses Dean Browning For LC Exec

2013-05-17T22:30:00.000-04:00

Dear Lehigh County Republicans:

I'm voting for conservative businessman Dean Browning in the Republican Primary for Lehigh County Executive on Tuesday and I hope you will join me.

Dean has the executive experience necessary to manage the county effectively, and I know he'll work with me to provide local law enforcement with the tools they need to keep our neighborhoods and schools safe. That's why I'm endorsing Dean Browning for County Executive.

Please don't forget to vote. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Jim Martin

Kim Beitler: Why I Support Dean Browning

2013-05-17T19:25:00.003-04:00

Kim Beitler was a part-time clerk in the Lehigh County GOP. But her position was eliminated so that the party could pay Scott Ott to be its "Executive Director." She's supporting Dean Browning for Lehigh County Exec, and here's why:

Back in 2009, I can honestly say I voted for Scott Ott when he first ran for Lehigh County Executive against Democrat Don Cunningham. Scott seemed witty, even charming. I somehow thought that his words made a connection with his actions. Unfortunately, I have since learned that not to be the case. Mr. Ott seems to get by on platitudes and not much substance. I have learned much about the character of the man who uses the campaign motto “Live the Freedom”.

Mr. Ott was my supervisor for a time of a local organization of which we both were employed. Scott did “live the freedom”. He had a job that was newly created just for him, without needing to produce much work (in fact, I am still confused as to what he did produce while there) for his salary or his health benefits; which were never before given to anyone employed there. Seemingly, the only thing Scott Ott did was the live the freedom to put this organization further down into a financial hole while benefiting financially himself. Scott didn’t do anything to aid in making that committee solvent or to prosper. And, in the interim, worked diligently along with others to try to ruin the integrity of a hard working, intelligent man, Dean Browning; then a Lehigh County Commissioner. I cannot, now, or ever again, support Scott Ott for anything in which he may choose to run. When a person shows you their true character, as Scott has to me, I would be a fool to not pay attention. I will be voting for Dean Browning for Lehigh County Executive. I really do wish others who know my character and know the conduct of my work would take heed when I say that Scott is not all that he appears to be.

Disgruntled Caseworker Charged With Harassment

2013-05-17T12:25:00.001-04:00

According to The Bethlehem Police Blog, disgruntled Northampton County Human Services caseworker Jim Gregory has been charged with harassment after an altercation with a woman. The police blotter claims he scratched her arms and struck her right shoulder.

16-May-13 1357 Hrs CA CASE SUMMARY:
ARREST (ADULT)
GREGORY, JAMES AGE: 60
1502 HIGH ST, BETHLEHEM PA
2709(a)(1) HARASSMENT PHYS/CONTACT (S)
Man scratched girlfriend's arms and struck her right
shoulder area causing redness. Non-traffic citation to
be mailed. Woman given PFA information. Cleared
arrest.

I heard about this yesterday and called Gregory. Getting no answer, I tracked him down at VanBittner Hall, where he was conducting a fund drive for a newly established PAC. He denied that anything had happened. He appeared shocked when I told him that I had heard he was charged with assaulting his girlfriend.

"You can ask her yourself," he told me, but I left. I feel uncomfortable discussing these allegations with someone who is identified as a victim.

The police blotter does not identify the woman that Gregory allegedly attacked.

Contacted late today, Gregory still professed ignorance, claiming that the charges "are news to me." He denies being contacted by the police. In blog commentary, he claims that I've been set up, am stupid, that I'm in trouble now, that I must pull the post or be sued and the Bethloehem police department is in real trouble now.

A former Bethlehem City Council President, Gregory is eyeing a challenge to Council member Ken Kraft, and had a fundraiser for that purpose yesterday.

Updated 6:24 PM

Sheriff Gets Six New Deputies

2013-05-17T10:47:00.000-04:00

I told you yesterday that Northampton County Sheriff Randy Miller needs six more deputies on top of the 59 FT and 14 PT deputies on his staff. Last night, he got them, in a unanimous vote by Council. Sheriff Miller explained there has been a 400% increase in foreclosures, that there are 5-6 transports going at one time, and it is becoming impossible to keep up. Part-time deputies are working 40-hour weeks. Deputies also provide security for the judges at the courthouse. During a criminal trial, there are typically three deputies in a courtroom for the judge, jury and defendant.

Libel Judgment Entered Against NorCo Council Candidate Tricia Mezzacappa

2013-05-17T00:00:00.002-04:00

A default judgment has been entered against Northampton and West Easton Borough Council candidate Tricia Mezzacappa in my defamation lawsuit against her. Attorney Rick Orloski filed it yesterday after a judge had declared she is in default for failure to answer a complaint. She has also ignored all discovery requests, including a scheduled videotape deposition. Now that liability has been determined, damages can now be assessed.

Northampton County Council to Sue Over Stoffa's End Run

2013-05-17T00:00:00.001-04:00

By a 7-1 vote, Northampton County Council decided last night to sue Executive John Stoffa over his decision to award a sealed bid for nonemergency transport services to Lifestar. Though that bid is $174,300 lower than the one submitted by Nazareth Ambulance, Council members wanted to stay with Nazareth. In fact, Stoffa went the competitive sealed bid route only after Council had twice rejected proposals that would have awarded the contract to Lifestar.

Executive candidate Lamont McClure, who proposed this resolution, called Controller Steve Barron to the podium so he could make his case. Barron, who apparently is now a prosecuting attorney, claimed that Stoffa's action was a "usurptation [sic] of the Administrative Code," as well as a "violation of the Criminal Code."

Barron didn't bother pointing out what section of the Criminal Code Stoffa violated, but he is a certified fraud examiner.

McClure tried to frame the dispute more in terms of the competing powers of two independent brancches of government. "That's why we have courts," he lectured.

That's also why we have a Legal and Judicial Committee. McClure, who heads that Committee, has failed to schedule a meeting in over three years. I guess he'd rather see two branches sue each other and waste everyone's money than actually do the job he was elected to do.

The sole member of Council to vote against suing Stoffa was Bob Werner. Bruce Gilbert, a lame duck not seeking re-election, was absent.

Steve Barron Toots Own Horn

2013-05-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Two people addressed Northampton County Council during courtesy of the floor at tonight's meeting. The first was Democratic Council candidate Tom O'Donnell, who gave a long rambling speech about ... something until President John Cusick pulled the plug on him. Like Controller Steve Barron, he's a certified fraud examiner. That's a fancy way of saying he's no accountant. Anyhoo, he's on to something, but I'll be damned if I can figure out what the hell it is. He claims he "will not name names unless elected." Since that's not going to happen, we'll never know.

The second person to address Council was none other than our Controller, Barron von Footinmouth. He spent his allotted time patting himself on the back, describing in great detail a routine peer review that his office recently passed. He was asked to congratulate his staff, something that must have slipped his mind.

Disgruntled Caseworker Making Political Calls From County Building

2013-05-16T11:51:00.000-04:00

Northampton County Human Services caseworker Jim Gregory has in recent weeks paraded one of his clients before a County Council meeting. At that time, he demanded that his boss and his boss's boss be fired, and called on Executive John Stoffa to resign. Now comes word that he appears to be using County resources to engage in partisan political activity on behalf of candidates in the County Council and Executive races.

County employees have been receiving either robocalls or push polls from Gregory after normal business hours, but his work phone number at the Bechtel Building is listed on the caller ID. Gregory seems to think it's OK to use County resources, so long as it's done after regular business hours.

One employee photographed one of Gregory's incoming calls, and has forwarded it to me. This appears to be an improper use of County resources for partisan political activity.

I have forwarded this photograph and accompanying email to Executive John Stoffa for whatever action he deems appropriate.

Updated 2 AM: Phone Calls Show Home Phone Number, not Work Number - I am no longer convinced that the above story is accurate. The telephone number listed in the attached screen capture is actually Gregory's home phone number, not his work phone number, as I incorrectly stated in the story above. It is easy to confuse the two, because there is only a one digit difference. But that digit makes all the difference in the world, a difference between partisan political activity on the County dime and political activity that is permitted. I am not entitled to my own facts, and if it appears I have this wrong, I will admit it. But for now, I feel obligated to point out that at least a part of this story is wrong.

MIA McClure - 14.7% Committee Attendance Over 6 Years

2013-05-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, seven Northampton County Council members listened attentively as Sheriff Randy Miller explained why he needs six new deputies. They reviewed a detailed proposal for a bond that would fund bridge repairs, as well as much-needed generator at Gracedale. But the nursing home's so-called savior, Lamont McClure, was absent as usual, leaving the actual work to his colleagues.

Since I began blogging in 2006, I do a yearly roundup of the attendance record of each Council member. I have always paid attention to committee hearings as well. Every member of council is encouraged to participate in every committee. So it's a pretty accurate gauge of the time and effort each councilperson devotes to government service. Based on this standard, the time and effort McClure spends as a member of Council is shameful. It's been that way for six years. Here's his committee attendance record since 2007:

2007: 5 of 27 committee hearings.
2008: 6 of 26 committee hearings.
2009: 6 of 23 committee hearings.
2010: 0 of 21 committee hearings.
2011: 4 of 43 committee hearings.
2012: 4 of 30 committee hearings.

That's a 14.7% attendance record over 6 years. It demonstrates a consistent disregard for the people McClure was elected to serve. I see Scott Parson, a slate quarry worker, kill himself to make it to committee hearings. But McClure is only rarely there, even for hearings that affect his own district or Gracedale.

With this record of disdain for the public, I find it incredible that McClure actually thinks people will vote for him, especially those among us who do show up and who do work.

McClure's attendance at regular Council meetings is better, but even that presents some cause for concern. In 2012, he attended 25 of 32 full meetings. But in 2010, he missed three meetings in a row during the Summer without explanation. He was missing in action for six weeks.

The one Committee he chairs - Legal and Judicial - has failed to meet in over three year, even though numerous conflicting interpretations of the Home Rule Charter have led to lawsuits.

The next Executive, no matter what his philosophy might be, has to be a person who is willing to serve the people who have elected him. That could be Glenn Reibman, John Callahan or John Brown. But it certainly is not Lamont McClure. Just as he was unwilling to knock on doors during his campaign, he 's simply unwilling to work.

Northampton County Contemplates $21.5 Million Bond

2013-05-16T00:00:00.003-04:00

John Callahan agrees with the concept. So does one of his opponents, Glenn Reibman. But the third democratic candidate for County Executive, Lamont McClure, was MIA yesterday when John Stoffa unveiled a spending plan for $7.1 million spending plan for the repair of 18 bridges. In addition, Stoffa would like to spend $3.2 million for a generator at Gracedale, in the event of another major power loss. He's also like a new boiler house at Gracedale, which would cost $300,000. Finally, Stoffa thinks there should be a $800,000 generator at the courthouse, because the computers there keep the wheels of government in motion. Altogether, that's $11.4 million in spending.

But that's not all. A $9.9 million, 2006 bond issue, will very soon be eligible for refunding at a rate that can save the County $1 million.

Between the refunding and new spending, we're talking about a $21.5 million bond.

What this bind fails to address is a new steamline and parking lot at Gracedale, which would add nearly another $4 million.

That parking lot work could not even begin for a year because of the permit requests involved.

Council member Bob Werner suggested that the County consider a concrete, as opposed to asphalt, parking lot, because it would have a much longer life. Council Prez John Cusick marveled at the estimated cost for a new parking lot. It "seems extraordinary," he said.

Werner reminded everyone that, within the next five years, the County could incur another major cost if it purchases the centralized human services building.

Barron Von Footinmouth Helps Union Pal Jim Gregory

2013-05-16T00:00:00.002-04:00

At Northampton County Council's Finance Committee yesterday, Controller Steve Barron mentioned he and his family just love bouncing around at SteelStax and Wayne Grube Park. And then, at the conclusion of what was supposed to be a discussion of a weights and measures audit, he told Council about some improper expenditures claimed by Kathleen Kelly, the Administrator of the County's Mental Health programs. But once again, Barron's motives are completely political. Let me fill you in.

Jim Gregory is a Northampton County caseworker in Human Services, and works under Kathleen Kelly. A former Bethlehem City Council member, he's still very active in County and City politics, and is now threatening to run against Ken Kraft in Bethlehem. At election season, he is one of the many politicos who walk around with nomination petitions, collecting signatures. He's also very active in SEIU.

Not only did Gregory oppose Executive John Stoffa's centralized human services building, but he brought a client - a woman suffering from depression - to a Council meeting. He used her as a prop to complain about the County's desire to teach her to take buses and do more things for herself. He mentioned this woman's name several times during the taped meeting, completely violating her privacy. He insists that he had a signed consent from her, but consents signed by mentally challenged people would probably mean very little in Court.

In a rambling speech, he demanded that his boss, Kathleen Kelly, be fired. He also wants Director of Human Services Ross Marcus canned. Finally, he wants Executive John Stoffa to resign, though two short weeks before, he visited Stoffa's home without an invitation and spent an hour there watching the birds.

Though I'm a bastard, I hate seeing people fired unless they steal or abuse sick leave. So I'd hate to see Gregory fired, but the way he treats what they call "consumers" is just wrong. It's a form of abuse, and he's done it before. As you might have guessed, attempts are underway to discipline or perhaps even terminate Gregory, according to what he has publicly said himself.

This is where our political Controller steps into the fray. Barron von Footinmouth sees an opportunity to ingratiate himself with an SEIU steward, as well as a politico who can help him down the road.

So Barron decides to look over the expense sheets of Gregory's bosses, and discovers they were illegally charging the County for artwork at the new human services building. Before sharing that information with anyone else, he shared it with Gregory, who promptly made sure everyone knew about it

Last night, Barron finally mentioned it to Council, complaining about a lack of policies and procedure. Director of Human Services Ross Marcus had a few things to say himself.

First, the "artwork" was for a new conference room wall in the Bechtel Building, not the new Human Services building.

Second, for the past 23 years, it has been the policy and procedure of Northampton County to claim these kinds of incidental expenses exactly as was done in this case.

Third, the artwork was five prints, costing $20 per print, prepared by one of the county's own recovery groups, called Recovery Partnership. Their philosophy is that the mentally ill can still lead normal lives. (You can see the artwork here).

Fourth, receipts were attached for the expenses claimed.

When Barron complained that this incidental expense is improper, Marcus and other Human Services supervisors simply dug into their own pockets and paid for the prints themselves.

While Marcus gave his explanation, Barron repeatedly interrupted from the rear. I'd like Barron von Footinmouth to explain why he gave this information to Gregory before giving it to Council. Maybe it's time for someone to investigate the political use he is making of his own office.

This Controller is complaining about 5- $20 payments for prints from the County's own customers, something that would likely help them in their recovery. He thinks that's improper. But as Marcus told me after the meeting, "This is the same guy who thought that $85,000 a year for the Lifestar ambulance contract was too small to worry about."