Scranton-At-Large

2008-06-25T14:27:00.001-07:00

DOHERTY CONTINUES SCRANTON SELL-OFF

Mayor Chris Doherty, aided by his henchmen on City Council, McGoff, Gatelli & Fanucci, has continued his sell-off of Scranton to his political cronies & friends! The latest move, not unexpected given the arrogance of this “my way or the highway” tyrant, is the giveaway of Public Access TV Channels 61-62 to a group (?) called Electric City TV (ECTV) comprised of his friends.

The popular TV channels were effectively wrested from the control of Scranton Today, which has operated the stations for more than 9 years, on a volunteer basis, and turned over to a suspect group which has transitioned from “knowledgeable TV people” to questionable political cronies. And the deal was done without shame by this “crackpot”.

For the benefit of those who don’t know (where have you been hiding?), the Mayor has sought to keep a veil of secrecy around his administration and has succeeded with the aid of his “puppet Council” of McGoff, Gatelli and Fanucci. Thousands of Lackawanna citizens, who have had the benefit of televised public meetings, will now be restricted to watching the proceedings at the whim of this mayor, and not only will be restricted to viewing the proceedings at unreasonable “rebroadcast” hours, but probably will be subjected to “edited” versions of the televised proceedings, all designed to maintain the veil of secrecy surrounding this hypocritical group of political hacks!

Sadly, but normally, the move violates every principle of good government and common sense, but once again, this mayor has had his way, to the detriment of the public. It is the standard line routinely spoken by the “brain dead” of this city, “That’s the way Scranton always has been….and that’s Scranton politics.”

What a disgrace and a crime that the citizens of this community are so apathetic (pathetic may be a better choice of words) that situations like this can exist and continue, unabated.

The saddest part is to watch such “outstanding” citizens as Doherty’s press agent, Stacy Brown, Jr. Council ex-President (thanks for that one) Doug Miller, and a few others stand at the doorway to City Hall, snickering and belittling the efforts of a group of picketers who protested the move prior to Council meeting Tuesday morning. What a travesty and shame on these “outstanding” ass-kissers who chose to belittle the efforts of the group.

Brown should be summarily dumped by the local media (also in Doherty’s pocket) and replaced by an honest news reporter. Miller, thankfully, has worn out his welcome while playing the role of “adult” activist on behalf of the administration at the same time he hides behind the “I’m only a kid” facade to seek sympathy for his ambitions.

Lackawanna County Commissioner A.J. Munchak pointed out, at council meeting, that the entire ECTV proposal should be thrown out because of highly questionable discrepancies in their proposal. Facts and figures in the proposal did not match, and ECTV’s proposed “studio” is being challenged in a zoning dispute. Two of the original three “signers” have dropped out and the private group has offered no investment of their own but is relying on the use of public monies to kick off their “grab” of Public Access TV. All this has been accomplished thanks to those paragons of rotten politics, Doherty, McGoff, Gatelli and Fanucci. Munchak, received resounding acclaim from the citizens.

The Commissioner, and several others after him, including a spokesman for Scranton Today, pointed out the travesty of awarding the contract to ECTV. One of the “founders” of the group has a questionable reputation when dealing with federal funds and has been accused of evading taxes. The fact that the whole project is being litigated should have been an alarm for the people of this city, but the bells apparently didn’t go off.

As for Brown, a “staff writer” for the city’s only newspaper, he has made it obvious that he has become nothing more than a spokesman for this city’s dirty politics and a Doherty puppet. When shown a copy of the Scranton Post, a new attempt to present honest journalism in Scranton, Brown snickered and offered his “insight” that the new publication had little or no chance of survival. This from a “pat me on the back” supposed journalist who has admitted publicly that he is only in it for a paycheck!

McGoff, Doherty’s hand-picked replacement for a former disgraced councilman, is about as obvious a puppet as anyone can be. When presented with any challenge to the Doherty agenda, this retired teacher stumbles and fumbles and acts like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Gatelli, whose ambitions are well-known, has become Doherty’s prime henchman on Council and at least is astute enough to try to present herself as a “civic-minded” representative of the people. The only thing lacking is her explanation of which “people” she represents. Her words and her actions are contradictory. It’s a shame how far she has fallen from being a likeable neighbor into a “pit bull” for Doherty. As for Fanucci, what can one say about this one except that she honestly believes she is an intellectual member of the governing body who is superior to those who are “uneducated” and beneath her. Her contempt for citizens is obvious and, from what we have been able to ascertain, her credentials as a hairdresser have placed her above the rest of us! This is Doherty’s “base” on Council. Says a lot for him, doesn’t it?

Yes, I guess we are obviously biased in our opinions, since we have seen good government in action. Unfortunately, we haven’t seen it in Scranton! Nor have we seen an honest and fair media in this area. Apparently the Scranton School of Politics and Journalism are lacking severely when it comes to graduating a class of sincere and dedicated “future leaders”. It’s probably best that this city go back to it’s coal-mining days when the city thrived. It certainly hasn’t made progress in common sense!

To pick up on the council meeting, doesn’t it seem odd that a proposal by Councilwoman Janet Evans to table the $90,000 OECD give-away to ECTV was defeated, but the same proposal, minus Evans’s call for an “examination” of the RFP, submitted by Gatelli, was accepted? The watered-down version was tailored to alleviate McGoff’s (Doherty’s) reservations about the vote, and was only a ploy to stall the $90,000 giveaway until a more opportune time. The amazing (?) thing is that following the council meeting, Brown reported that “His Arrogance” (Doherty) had declared that the ECTV group would take over operation of TV61-62 as of July 1^st anyway. This despite the fact that they have no money, no equipment, no plan, and no clearance to operate in their proposed “studio”.

Unfortunately, Scranton Today’s forces caved in, seeing the handwriting on the wall, and consequently, YOUR Public Access TV will now be in the hands of the Doherty forces.

This will unquestionably be the demise of televised viewing of the Scranton-Lackawanna County Taxpayers and Citizens Assn., a thorn in Doherty’s rose bush, and will likely result in edited versions of council, school board, and “authority” meetings.

We only hope that we won’t soon see the renaming of public landmarks to be McGoff Park. Gatelli Way, and Fanucci’s Follies.. When they hang Doherty’s picture as ex-Mayor (and we hope that’s soon), we will head the drive to drape the portrait in black, signifying his real accomplishments!

IMPEACHMENT SHOULD BE AN OPTION

If there ever is to be any justice in Scranton, a way should be found to boot this Mayor and administration from office. Impeachment should be an option, but under the “laws” and “rules” of Scranton, and Pennsylvania, it would appear there is no way the citizens can gain relief, short of voting these tyrants out of office.

We, and several others, have contacted Federal officials, including the Inspector General of HUD, seeking redress and an investigation into misuse of federal funds to suit the Doherty administration. Though much of our City and County government is under investigation, we only hope the guardians of our public money will step in and substantiate our beliefs, and the “perpetrators” will be indicted and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This seems to be the only way to awaken the apathetic voters and to restore honesty and integrity to this community.

It is time for federal action on behalf of the taxpayers who are being ripped off by this city government and to restore Scranton to its rightful place as a city of the future. Where are you, federal agents? You have a job to do, so please, get with it!

POLITICAL MACHINES NEED TO START UP NOW!

Forget national politics! It is time for political hopefuls to begin to gear up and unite against Scranton’s present political machine. It is never too early!

If there is to be any successful move to unseat our present political hacks, a united front must be started to try to catch up with the well-oiled political group backing Doherty, McGoff, Gatelli and Fanucci. They are way ahead with $$$ and ambition.

While there are several Mayoral and council “candidates” waiting in the wings, the time is now for presenting a united effort to take back this city. Grass roots efforts need to begin and a combined and sincere effort must be made to present a slate of candidates who can unseat the present charlatans.

Involvement of all potential anti-Doherty candidates in a united effort to gain control of our city is a must. Petty differences, self-serving ambitions, and past differences must be set aside and a seriously viable group of candidates must be determined. Past history should be considered prime in this effort, and only those candidates who can prove their sincerity, honesty and integrity should be presented at the next local elections.

Scranton is mired in deceit, political patronage, and complete disregard for the citizens. The elitist politics of the past has got to be buried, once and for all, and a new generation has got to emerge. Scranton needs leadership that has the foresight and intestinal fortitude to put it back on the right track. We need to embrace a common sense approach to the economic disaster which faces us; save the people from political vultures; and restore this city as a livable and desirous place to live and raise a family. Our distressed city needs to be rescued from the tax and spend politics which favor only the rich, and we have got to seek to bring industry and new jobs into the area, not more service jobs.

Rescuing Scranton from complete oblivion is a necessity, and the time to prepare for change is not sometime in the future, it is right now! Unless an honest &^sincere effort is made by the voters and potential candidates, we can kiss Scranton good-bye and change its name to “Hicksville: Home of The Elitists and Deprived”. Is this what you want?

Sure it sounds radical, but unless we wake up and smell the roses, there won’t be any roses left to smell. We are already overgrown with weeds and Doherty’s concrete wonders, save his playground (Nay Aug Park). Do you really want to see a city of vacant properties, Gatelli’s trees, no youth, and over-burdened taxpayers? Rome wasn’t built in a day, but it didn’t take very long for it to be destroyed by despots! Scranton faces the same future unless somebody begins to make a move, NOW!

We don’t need self-serving losers running for office! What we do need are candidates who can produce and who want to serve the majority of voters. “Wannabees” who split the vote are a detriment, and its time for them to get smart and unite behind serious contenders! If it means making a deal, then by all means do it, but let’s get moving. Unless you do, the Divide and Conquer Doherty forces will continue to lead Scranton on a path to destruction and ruin! United We Stand! Remember?

2008-06-17T18:01:00.001-07:00

ANOTHER TRIUMPH FOR “DER FUHRER”

Well, it happened again! Mayor Chris Doherty, soon to be known as “Herr Doherty” had his henchmen, McGoff, Gatelli and Fanucci, pass another of his political patronage deals!

By what has now become the standard 3-2 vote, the Doherty trio effectively “stole” our Public Access Channels (TV 61-62) and handed them over to ECTV, also to be known as “Doherty’s Buddies”.

After more than nine years of operating, as mostly volunteers, the Scranton Today group was unceremoniously ousted in order for Herr Doherty to place his “Doherty Buddies” group in charge. In effect, the “theft” of our Public Access TV now falls into the hands of our new Fuhrer and his friends, technically, as of July 1^st. Despite a challenge to the “plan” by a competing group, which included a complaint to the “Ethics” (HA! in Scranton?) Committee, the deal was generally considered a “done deal” before anyone had a real chance to make an honest proposal or to have it reviewed fairly.

A $90,000 grant, undoubtedly compliments of Fanucci and her OECD friends, will kick off the new “venture”, with a probable $175,000 windfall once Comcast makes its contribution to the City. This will enable the new “group” to control Public Access TV (which includes the Fuhrer) and will result in the “creation” of at least three new “jobs”, all of which are high-priced “political plums” going to more of the Fuhrer’s friends. Ach Du Lieber! And we thought this was honest government “of the people, by the people, and for the people”! The only thing remaining now is for the Fuhrer’s “Mein Kampf” to be published and turned into a maxi-series to be broadcast on a regular basis. The First Amendment of the former U.S. Constitution has effectively been quashed.

Doherty’s “Weapons of Mass Destruction” (McGoff, Gatelli and Fanucci) were obviously prepped properly, and succeeded in keeping the totalitarian Scranton government in control. No longer a “free society”, Scranton has finally been relegated into its proper role as a “dictatorship” by Herr Doherty and his henchmen, including “Josef Goebbels” Brown, his propaganda minister. Can the “SS Storm Troopers” be far behind? Are we seeing the beginning of Doherty’s plans for “The Fourth Reich”?

We wonder how many of them will “repent” after all the U.S. (remember them?) government investigations into the “slime and grime” of Scranton politics is finally uncovered? We can’t wait! No booze or cigarettes allowed in their future “homes”!

TIME FOR CITIZENS TO ACT

It’s time for Scranton, and Lackawanna County citizens to take action! In view of the fact that Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty has “given away” the only unedited news source in this area to political cronies, and obviously will gain control over what we can watch, the alternative is to fight back.

We urge those who are disturbed by the Mayor’s actions to contact the HUD Inspector General’s Office to urge an investigation into the “misuse” of HUD funds to satisfy Doherty’s political ambitions. Especially since OECD (HUD) funds are being misused in an attempt to gain complete control over our news media.

There was no public hearing regarding the award of the Public Access TV channels to ECTV, and Doherty specifically said he would not be involved, yet he appointed a committee to make the award, and continued to violate the ethical issues. CBGD (Community Block Grant Development) funds have been appropriated and a $90,000 start-up “loan” was awarded ECTV, though there is ongoing litigation regarding the zoning for the group’s proposed site.

In addition, in a ridiculous ploy to give this group federal monies, the $90,000 voted on by Doherty’s 3 henchmen on City Council (McGoff, Gatelli & Fanucci) is supposed to be a loan, BUT, if the group employs three people from the low-moderate income group in the next 3 years, the “loan” becomes a grant! They also will probably seeks some $175,000 from the Comcast share to the city, in essence, creating three or more high paying jobs to political cronies, when the former Ch 61-62 operators, Scranton Today, only spent some $50,000 for staff, and much of that was for part-time employees. One of the ploys to be used by ECTV is planning to hire a former Ch 61 part-timer, a student. who was paid minimum wage, at a possible $30,000 salary.

Another question is John Darcy and his previous record in dealing with federal funds. If true, Darcy’s alleged record of “shafting” the government needs to be investigated. It is hard to believe that Doherty & his cronies actually think the entire city is part of their “sheep herd”. We hope this move is the one which will break the back of this clique.

And while we’re at it, let’s not forget Sherry Fanucci and Sara Hailstone’s “record”, as evidenced by HUD documents, that they failed to comply with federal guidelines at OECD. This matter needs investigating and if enough people call, we’ll bet we finally get some action. Though federal money is being used, it is our money. Taxpayers’ money!

PITY PARTY TIME FOR THOSE “OFFENDED”

It would appear that it is time to hold a pity party for some of our locals who have been
“offended” by the fact that Scranton residents and taxpayers have the nerve to go to City Council meetings to seek answers to legitimate questions.

Austin Burke, our “esteemed” C of C President seems to take offense that citizens have the audacity to question their leaders over the actual spending and taxing of these same citizens. How dare they “blemish” the impeccable image perpetrated by Burke and Doherty of Scranton as the “Eden” of northeast Pennsylvania. And how dare they protest at Council meetings which are supposed to be all smiles and nods, ala McGoff, Gatelli & Fanucci, and those “concerned citizens” who never attend council sessions.

Just because these folks are being overtaxed, facing foreclosure and being bled dry by the Doherty administration certainly doesn’t give them any rights. Why these people actually believe that the U.S. Constitution gives them “rights” when we all know that politicians have done their best to stomp those guarantees out of existence! Pity poor Austin!

And poor Doug Miller, our Jr. Council President. Why all during his “tenure” as president of that august body, Doug has envisioned himself not only as a peer of the elected officials, but actually as “acting” Mayor at times. Of course that is unless he oversteps the bounds of propriety by chastising taxpaying adults for having the audacity to attend Council meetings and airing their gripes. Then little Dougie wants to retreat to being “only a kid”. Needless to say, he usually gets the backing of the Doherty trio, even to the point of expecting to be the “first speaker” and exceeding the time constraints im-posed on taxpayers. How dare anyone question Dougie, especially since he has been schooled by Bob Bolus and Judy Gatelli. Where were they when Dougie was defeated in his run for class president? And did they fail to teach Dougie a prime principle….respect for his elders and consideration for those whose tax money helped educate him? Pity!

We respectfully ask that all of Doug’s detractors chip in to buy him a “go away” present and also to honor Austin Burke with a one-way ticket out of town and into retirement.. What better reward for these chronic whiners? Or is that word only for citizen taxpayers?

Perhaps Dougie can take a course at the Sherry Fanucci Finishing School for Wannabees!

And maybe Burke would donate his salary to retire some of the city’s debt! Oh yeah!

CAN TAXPAYERS PULL OFF A PROTEST RALLY?

Rumors are that a taxpayers rally against Doherty & the City Council’s actions in “grabbing” Ch 61 and giving it away to political cronies is being planned.

The city taxpayers rallied successfully when the administration sought to block access to city hall following alleged “near riots” last year, and they just may be able to once again sway the Doherty forces if they choose to muster a rally.

One thing politicians cannot stand is adverse publicity, and we would be more than willing to help in contacting our media friends to cover such a rally, should it take place.

“Der Fuhrer” is probably planning another run to succeed himself, and this may be just the thing he needs to convince him that all is not well in his camp. His “beer hall putsches” have been worn thin and he is gaining more and more detractors as he continues to pass off his Nay Aug Park agenda and “Revitalization Project.”

It is long past due time to rein this group in and to take our city back from this group of taxers and spenders. It’s rather sad that this once great city has become what it is, but people are beginning to see through the “mystic clouds” that have been hyped and puffed up by political blow-hards, and the truth is starting to emerge. Scranton is not the rose garden portrayed by Doherty & the C of C, rather it is a distressed city which will be in deeper distress should the Doherty policies continue. Protest may be the answer, especially if we can get national media attention to “unveil” the truth. Count us in!

HOPING TO SPEED UP FED ACTION

We are all fully aware that the Federal government would lose a race to the turtle, but we can’t help but hope for a speed-up and an end to recent investigations.

Housing Authority suspended-Director David Baker’s trial on alleged charges should begin in August and we can only hope for all the “dirt” to come out, including names. The FBI probe into the Single Tax Office should become public knowledge soon, and other investigations into city “authority” practices should unveil some “interesting” results. Taxpayers’ money and the leadership practices of some “supervisors” should become known before too long.

Former Tax Collector Ken McDowell will probably have to answer for his deeds, and we hope that others, including elected officials who have been derelict in their duties, will have to face the music as well. Should evidence emerge that they are all part of a well-orchestrated conspiracy, we hope they will be charged and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. White collar crimes merit more than a “slap on the wrist” and if anyone is guilty of criminal activity, they need to be prosecuted. The average man has suffered too long and its time to rein-in these rascals.

From all outward appearances, it seems there may very well be a long line of “defendants” at hearings and numerous lawyers “earning” their keep in what may be the biggest “payback” in the long and less than illustrious Scranton history of political shenanigans. Put that in your “Office”!

FINAL WORDS FOR TWO LONG-TIME IDOLS OF OURS

We recently lost a “real” journalist when Tim Russert, host of “Meet The Press” passed away unexpectedly. Tim was the genuine article and his passing means a great loss to journalism at a time when we need more like him. Unlike those who are in the business “for the paycheck” Tim exuded a style and grace not unlike Edward R. Murrow and Walter Cronkite. He was a true journalist and we’ll miss him terribly.

The passing of dancer Cyd Charisse, one of our first “real loves”, is a great loss to the entertainment industry. I had the opportunity to interview Fred Astaire, another great, and asked him to identify his favorite dance partner. He graciously declined, but when I mentioned her name, Astaire smiled. Sometimes words don’t need to be expressed.

2008-06-04T23:29:00.000-07:00

TAX ACTION NEEDED NOW!

Several members of the Scranton-Lackawanna County Taxpayers and Citizens Assn. traveled by car to Harrisburg last week to join a rally at the State Capitol. The rally was in support of House Bill 1275 (HB1275) billed as the “Save Our Homes” rally.

The local group joined some 30 other taxpayers association from around the state to rally for passage of the bill which would essentially eliminate the school property tax. Several hundred taxpayers heard state Rep. Keith McCall (D-Carbon County), the No. 2 ranking Democrat in the House and several other elected state Reps. Call for passage of the bill. “It can be done. The only thing that is required is leadership and the will”, proclaimed Rep. McCall. The rally, organized by the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition and state Rep. Sam Rohrer (R-Berks County), calls for the bill, the School Property Tax Elimination Act, to be passed to afford Pennsylvanians tax relief at a much needed time.

McCall said education funding must enter modern reality. “It makes no sense to use a 19^th century tax to fund a 20^th century education,” he said. Citing the fact that people around the state are losing their homes to sheriffs’ sales, Clarion County Commissioner Donna Oberlander said many politicians and interest groups in Harrisburg want this issue to just go away.

Rohrer played tape recordings of homeowners from around the state, One, from Paul Davis of Stewartstown, a retiree living with his wife on social security was particularly poignant. Davis, who previously suffered a stroke, lives in a school district that raised his property taxes to the maximum level possible before it must go to a referendum.

David Baldinger, the face behind PTCC, representing more than two dozen taxpayers groups, said the updated version of HB 1275 has been thoroughly vetted by professional accountants, is supported by taxpayers, and has secured bipartisan support. Gov. Ed Rendell recently told a newspaper that he would sign the bill into law if it reaches his desk. Baldinger said, “These combined forces should spell success this time. There can be no more excuses.” An earlier version of the bill received little support from the majority Democrats in the house.

Representatives from both parties were afforded the opportunity to speak out on the issue while throngs filled the capitol rotunda, staircase and gallery. Some taxpayers cited a raise in school property taxes of some $4,000 to $5,000 over a five year period. Citing his vulnerability, one taxpayer stated, “There are people who have the power to take my home away, School board members have the ability to take my house away by their poor decisions.” Another, a Neshaminy School District board member, said educational reform and relief are needed. He theorized the reason change hasn’t happened yet is because legislators feel “safe” with the status quo on education funding. “We didn’t put you in office to feel safe…we elected you to be agents of change!” he concluded.

Gene Endress of the Owen J. Roberts Taxpayer Alliance said, “a lot of legislators are up for reelection in November and their votes on this issue could decide whether or not they keep their seats.

Under the bill, school property taxes would be phased out over 3 years; the state sales tax would remain at 6% but would be expanded to more goods and services; and all money raised for education would be placed in a special fund which would not allow the state to borrow from it. Districts would be allowed to supplement state funding with local personal income tax or earned income tax, but only if their voters agree in a referendum.

Other benefits would include reducing this areas earned income tax by 1% to a more acceptable 2.4% and would virtually eliminate the Scranton School Districts over $200 million in long-term indebtedness, according to Robert “Ozzie” Quinn, president of the S-LCT&CA. According to Quinn, when the sales tax was adopted some 40 years ago, it was for school districts, but the “politicians were able to bury what it was adopted for.”

Scranton and Lackawanna taxpayers and citizens are urged to join the local group and to become active members. The next meeting is slated for June 12^th at Scranton City Hall at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend and to join the group.

Local Representatives Frank Shimkus, Ken Smith, Ed Staback and Jim Wansacz have failed to support the bill and are under fire by local constituents for their inaction! It is believed that their actions will greatly affect the outcome of their reelection campaigns.

SCRANTON CITIZENS AGAIN IGNORED

Recent action by City Council and other city officers is indicative of the seeming contempt the elected officials have for Scranton citizens. Two weeks ago newly-appointed Tax Collector Marilyn Vitali-Flynn, and her solicitor John J. McGovern Jr. alienated taxpayers and Council alike by inferring her office and her duties were none of anyone’s business, insulting Councilman Bill Courtright publicly. She later seemed to tone down her remarks and to answer questions.

This week, after a call to subpoena former Tax Collector Ken McDowell, his solicitor Dave Rinaldi “spoke with City Council solicitor Amil Minora” to discuss a meeting with Council where McDowell would answer questions.

Since when do elected officials meet through solicitors, instead of with elected officials and citizens, to “discuss” issues? One can only assume that there is something to hide if an elected official is reluctant to face the citizens who elected him or her to office. I don’t recall electing McGovern, Rinaldi or Minora to represent my interests and I don’t know of any statute which affords them the right to speak for elected officials or citizens when an official is called to answer. Sure they have the right to represent their clients, but their clients have a duty to answer to the public. If there is questionable activity under the leadership of an elected official, they have every right to counsel, but if they are not trying to conceal their activities, using counsel strictly to evade being open and honest to the citizens, then there must be something to hide, one would assume. Either face the public or quit your job. You are not “royalty” and above the law.

Enter Roseanne Novembrino, Controller, who has been on the job for over 20 years. She claims to have had no knowledge that tax office activities were supposed to be monitored by her office. Okay….what planet has she been on? And what does that say about her qualifications? How long would a hamburger flipper at a fast-food restaurant last if he couldn’t flip a burger?

Something is very, very wrong in Scranton and it needs open airing! Every elected official, every appointed official, and everyone on the city payroll is subject to scrutiny by taxpayers and its about time these people were made aware of that fact. The taxpayers pay the bills and they also pay the salaries. Don’t try to hoodwink us with your “holier than thou” attitude!

REVISE THE JR. COUNCIL OR DUMP IT

The once well-intended Scranton Jr. Council has outlived its intended purpose which never seems to have been fulfilled. What started out as a good idea eroded into a one boy show for Doug Miller who got a little too high and mighty and couldn’t keep a council together. Where these kids should have been learning, they were allowed to think and act for themselves and the situation got out of hand. Instead of being guided by the Council, they were instead “groomed” for whatever purpose and took it upon themselves to think they were an official body, often acting as if they were superior to the citizens attending.

If the Jr. Council is to be continued, and we see no reason why it shouldn’t, more mature young people should be encouraged to become members. We refer to college students who are studying political science, civics, government, etc. There is a need to involve young people in local government but restrictions need to be placed on them. It should not be a forum for fostering one’s own youthful ideas at the expense of taxpayers who have a right to speak on subjects germane to Council activities. Certainly concerns of youth should be addressed, but Jr. Council members should not be accorded special privilege and should address the council member who is assigned to mentor them, at a pre-meeting or after the regular meeting, not as an equal partner to Council.

It has become distasteful to many citizens, both those in attendance, and those who watch the TV broadcasts, to see a high school student berate adults and taxpayers because he or she does not agree with them If these kids are to learn, the purpose for which the Jr. Council was formed, they need to listen and have guidance, not be free to act on their own or as spokesmen for others who encourage their own agendas. Fix it or dump it!

CHANNEL 61 FIASCO

Channel 61, the Public Access TV channel which has performed a great service to the area, is once again under fire by the Mayor and the City Council who are attempting to wrest control from Scranton Today. It is apparent that our city leaders wish to silence this volunteer group and to turn the public access channel over the political cronies.

Not very long ago the group asked for $20,000 to help them keep broadcasting. A unanimous vote was taken and the promise made to afford them the money. Shortly thereafter, the Council voted 3-2 to deny them the funds, following the Doherty Trio 3 votes to the 2 votes cast in favor of Scranton taxpayers. Then Mayor Doherty, after stating he would not get involved, managed to pull off a coup by seeing to it that the “franchise” was awarded to a group of his cronies. This group sought to reap some $175,000 of the allotted funding from the Comcast payout to the city, for “Phase One” operations.

Another group, NEPATV sought to acquire the rights to the project but their proposal was never afforded consideration. Instead, the “committee” voted in favor of Doherty;s ECTV “gang”. The NEPATV group filed a protest with the Ethics (in Scranton?) Committee, said missive was delivered via registered mail and signed for, yet no action was ever taken and the City Council knows nothing of the letter. The letter was sent and delivered in early February.

We submitted all three proposals to friends in the industry, including one former top-executive with White-Westinghouse. The unanimous opinion was that if Scranton Today was to be relegated to a “thanks but no thanks” role, the franchise should have been awarded to the NEPA group since their proposal was solid and sound. We have also heard from readers around Scranton and outlying areas of the County who have watched Council, County Commissioner, Taxpayers Assn. meetings and the like religiously.

We have been approached at restaurants, Wal Mart, grocery stores, and have received numerous calls and emails from upset viewers who fail to understand why this is happening. We have tried our best to explain the situation, but most are in agreement, Scranton Today served the public faithfully and openly.

Yes, there were some glitches, but it boils down to the fact that Doherty and his horde don’t want the public informed and will do everything in their power to keep the citizens in the dark. We wonder why the County Commissioners have not stepped into the fray and why others have been reluctant to speak out. We realize the administration exercises a heavy hand over numerous local “wannabes” but what about those who rely on TV broadcasts to keep abreast of civic meetings?

Apparently the old “that’s the way its always been in Scranton” attitude prevails and it is a sad commentary that Ch. 61 will soon probably go dark and thousands will be left out of public meetings viewings and fail to get the real story because of apathy.

We encourage everyone to make a donation to Scranton Today in an effort to help this worthy organization keep Ch 61 on for the benefit of citizens. Checks could be made payable to Scranton Today and mailed in care of the Albright Library, Vine St., Scranton, Pa. 18509. Any amount will be appreciated and will be put to good use to keep all of us informed, It is the only source many have for information about public happenings and it would be disgraceful to let TV61 go dark for the benefit of political payoffs or attempts to keep the public out of city and county business.

2008-06-02T14:58:00.001-07:00

WHINE TIME, AGAIN?

Just when you think it is about to change, City Council manages to begin the “whine season” all over again. This time, as in many times previous, the Whinemistress Judy Gatelli is leading the charge against those who dare to attempt to speak at Council meetings. Hate to tell you Judy, but those are called CITIZENS and they have the right to speak, under a document called “The Constitution of The United States!” You should read it, sometime. And pass copies along to Bob McGoff and Sherry Fanucci, the other “astute and self-aggrandizing” members of your Doherty Worship Club. Lord knows, you could all learn from it, if you’re capable of understanding it!

Judy, you have been a chronic whiner since your election, feeling compelled to let the public know, mostly through your P.R. man (otherwise known as Doherty’s Press Agent), that the citizens of this City have a conspiracy against you and the other members of the Doherty Three. On more than one occasion you have made it very clear that YOU and the other TWO are above and beyond answering to the public and need go no further than to nod in ascension for the Doherty agenda. At one time we had held out hope that McGoff might turn into a real man and be able to speak on behalf of the constituency, but we recognized, early on, that he and Fanucci (Lady Brilliance) were beyond salvation.

Let’s look at YOUR record, and that of your “Doherty is God” allies. YOU have been a champion of many causes, most always aligned with “Chris” and I can’t recall one instance in which you ever voted to do anything for the citizens, save your own friends. YOU have managed to play “politics” better than anyone, as the assumed leader of the “Chris Coalition”. YOU even told this writer, on one occasion, “I don’t have to answer your questions, and nobody on this Council has to answer any questions if they don’t want too.” Care to deny that?

YOU have made it very clear that if YOU believe it, and McGoff and Fanucci believe it, it is absolutely right and everyone else is absolutely wrong! YOU have been one of the most vocal and antagonistic members of an elected body, along with “Mighty Mouth…No Brain” Fanucci and have been one of the most outspoken and severe critics of citizen participation at Council meetings. YOU have not only allowed the Jr. Council (i.e. Doug Miller) unlimited access to speaking out on subjects HE held dearly, as a high school student, but have sought to stifle any input from adult, tax-paying citizens.

YOU have stifled every attempt by citizens to gain knowledge of what the City Council is doing, including the change of meeting date (to accommodate Fanucci); YOU have failed to appear at meetings (ala Doherty) without explanation; YOU have been prone to adjourn or cancel meetings, subject to your own “fears” (perceived threats from citizen ‘terrorists’); YOU have fostered an antagonistic relationship with the citizen speakers; it was YOU who made the decisions to take Council action, without consulting the “other” members of Council; and it is YOU who brought your paranoia to the public meetings by defending questionable activities regarding your “family”.

Now, since YOU appointed McGoff to serve as Council President, you have stepped further across the line by refusing to allow either Bill Courtright or Janet Evans to assume that leadership role, either of whom deserved the post based on longevity and experience. POLITICS? Of course it was Judy, and you can’t hide that obvious fact. Do you remember attempting to make a fool of Courtright by asking if “the tax collector job” was getting to him; or chastising Janet Evans at every turn when she had requested subpoenas, sought answers to questions, or tried to discuss City business in open forum. Isn’t it YOU who question every move by Mrs. Evans, regardless of how honest and open the move, due to the fact that Mrs. Evans is known to be anti-Doherty and FOR the citizens of this community? Isn’t it YOU who have used city resources to defend your paranoic actions, i.e. the “investigation” of terroristic threats against you and your family?

Come on Judy, you and Fanucci groomed Doug Miller, and you allowed this kid to get out of hand, even allowing him to promote Frank Shimkus during a Council session, while urging McGoff to gavel other speakers “out of order” if they brought anyone else’s name up. Isn’t it a fact that you deeply resent Janet Evans because she is anti-Doherty and speaks on behalf of the majority of the citizens? And, isn’t it a fact that you and your cohorts have done everything you can to dissuade citizen speakers from asking legitimate questions of concern to all?

And lastly, let’s not forget that Chris Doherty and Carl Greco just “happened” to be in the area on the night McGoff was “granted” the Council seat vacated by Doherty’s, and obviously yours, pal Bob McTiernan. Strange that Doherty never appeared before the Council and has been reluctant to make any public appearances, answer any public questions, and has been conspicuous by his absence at “requested” Council sessions, but always manages to grab a “photo op” or be available for his Press Agent and You, McGoff and Fanucci. Is that Politics, Judy? Lousy ones, at that!

As for Fanucci and McGoff, that is another story, but worthy of note. Fanucci, who has “worked” her way up into political jobs, is probably the biggest “no class” act that has ever been perpetrated on the citizens of this community. She, a former hairdresser (?), has placed herself above and beyond the ordinary citizen, and has belittled seniors with years of experience, flaunting her “intelligence” and “education” while pandering shamelessly to her idol, Doherty. She called this writer a “loser” (60 years of creditable experience as a professional); attempted to belittle Ozzie Quinn, a man with countless credentials and former head of the Habitat for Humanity; “walked out” during meetings because she was too “sensitive” to subject herself to questioning; “challenged” Les Spindler (in the hallway, during a meeting) and accused him of having his “material” written by former Mayor Jimmy Connors; sneered at and snickers at citizen speakers who she obviously feels are “beneath her”; and has yet to answer questions as to what happened at OECD during her tenure, with Sara Hailstone, when HUD funds were spent incorrectly, jobs were NOT created, questionable other activities were and are being challenged, and a plethora of mis-management activities were prevalent (see the HUD audit results). Some “leader”!

McGoff has played the game too well! He has become the chief puppet in Doherty’s Puppeteer Show and is so obvious in his disdain for having to deal with the public that he confuses himself at times. Astutely, or with the prodding of the Democratic Party leaders and Doherty, he managed to gain a full-term seat on Council by riding the coattails of Bill Courtright in the last election. There is no denying the fact that his weak campaigning was the result of his inability to answer a question without prompting from his “bosses”. A retired educator, it is sad that he has stooped to being a “patsy” for the group which is bankrupting this community; helping to line the pockets of its cronies; and more than likely protecting his own “ars” for future political gain. What a joke for a man who was supposed to have dedicated his career to educating young people and being a role model for his students. However, we will grant him this, he knows on which side his bread is buttered and has no intention of alienating those he feels can further his career, and image (?).

Oh yes, Judy, there is definitely “politics” being played at Council meetings, but the game is being played by YOU, McGoff and Fanucci, the “Doherty Three”. You can blame it on Janet Evans and Bill Courtright all you want, but the fact of the matter is simply that WE, THE CITIZENS, have been onto your childish game for a long time, and, quite frankly, are fed up with IT and YOU! And let’s not forget, the general populace is fed up with Doherty and his group too!

The only conclusion we can draw from these antics is that YOU, McGoff and Fanucci, like Doherty, feel YOUR standing in the community is falling, lending to the overall paranoia evident with this group; that you all actually fear Janet Evans and Bill Courtright, primarily because they seem to have the backing of the citizenry, albeit not the “party”; and that your entire group is fearful of the impending repercussions from the ongoing investigations of city agencies which is sure to finally come home to roost with the administration and the council.

It will be very interesting, when the dust finally settles, to see who among you survives, and who goes down as a result of this affinity you all seem to have for shooting yourselves in the foot. It is evident that YOU and Fanucci suffer from “foot in mouth” disease, and that McGoff is at least astute enough to try to avoid that disease, but it is beyond my comprehension why you are stupid enough to continue to call attention to your lack of common sense and your inability to relate to the public. Hell yes, its politics, but the game is played on both sides, not just one.

A word to the wise, and that includes you and the other two: We said the House of Cards was getting ready to collapse; it started to collapse with the indictment of Dave Baker of the Scranton Housing Authority; it is continuing to collapse with the Federal Investigation of the Single Tax Office; and it is going to collapse further as other Federal investigations take place. Sooner or later, the noose is going to tighten and the “real” culprits are going to get caught up in the web! Do you really have enough faith in your “invincibility” to think that it is going to bypass you? Or is it that you honestly believe you will emerge squeaky clean after all is said and done? You are either very naïve; very stupid; or very clean. We don’t know which, but we’re watching it closely!

MCDOWELL EMERGES FROM ENNUI

The elusive Ken McDowell, Lackawanna County Controller, and former head of the Single Tax Office, has emerged from a state of ennui, without explanation other than that he had a significant medical problem. I guess that’s a good excuse for disappearing, or rehab.

McDowell does however, claim that everything is okay within his office, and that he knows nothing about any “misdoings” at the Single Tax Office.

McDowell went further in alleging that it is “all politics” because he is aligned with the Doherty faction of the “two political factions” in Scranton’s politics. What else is new?

Needless to say, the entire matter will probably be solved without a lot of “hullabaloo” due to McDowell’s political correctness in aligning with the “power faction” in Scranton. WELL?

Did anyone really expect anything different given the history of this “system” in Scranton?

TIME FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS TO FACE FACTS

We hate to be the bearer of sad tidings, but isn’t it time that Scranton, Lackawanna County and the State of Pennsylvania came back into the fold of the United States?

Contrary to the “politics as usual” crowd, we are governed by a Constitution, and have been subjected to its laws since 1776. “Home Rule Charters” aside, the elected officials in Pennsylvania, and especially Scranton and Lackawanna County, still fall under the rules of law, that is, The Law of the Land.

For some strange reason, politicians, especially those in the NEPA region, seem to believe they are immune from having to obey the Constitution which governs ALL the people, and that they can circumvent the law because of their status and their connections.

For far too long, the citizenry has been subjected to the vagaries of a handful of power hungry elected officials who continue to ride roughshod over the rights granted and guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States. Apparently, they either don’t know what that document says, or they believe they are above the law.

Sorry to have to inform you blatant violators, but the law sides with the citizens and gives them inalienable rights which you seem to think you can deprive them of by claiming “immunity” from having to answer for your actions and deeds. WRONG!

With the battery of lawyers, most of whom have benefited from their “connections”, and many of whom have gotten rich at the expense of the citizenry, giving “advice” about how “immune” YOU may think you are, the Constitution guarantees the citizens the right to remove from public office those who have infringed on their rights and who have acted in violation of sound government practices.

With an influx of intelligent and educated voters, it is surprising that no one has made a concerted effort to challenge these political hacks with a Federal lawsuit, in a Federal court. Perhaps it is because no lawyer in the area has the backbone, or the fortitude, to champion any cause which would challenge the “rights” with which these elected officials have endowed themselves.

With a weak ACLU in this area, and a lack of people with any guts, it is obvious that these politicians have continued to not only tred on the rights of the citizens, but to stomp on them. And all this takes place not only with the indifference of the legal community, but with the apparent encouragement of this self-righteous group of legal beagles.

Is it any wonder that most politicians not only are lawyers, but are also held in general contempt and scorn by the public? With all the shenanigans and “hand-in-my-pocket” attitudes prevalent in the legal profession, it is highly likely that these elected officials will continue to gauge the public, sneer at citizens and their complaints, and generally side with their benefactors.

Doesn’t anyone ever wonder why someone with a serious lawsuit in their mind seeks legal representation from outside the area? Does it ever occur to anyone that having to go outside the area to secure adequate legal representation seems to be a given?

I’m sure we’ll hear from the bar association, or some lawyers, who vehemently disagree, but will we hear from any legal eagle who is willing to challenge the “system”? We doubt it!