Friday, March 20, 2009

Ethics and politics, an oxymoron?

How can anyone have a problem with ethics reform?
I'll tell you how, when the reform isn't really reform at all.
Montgomery County employees are going to be barred from running for office if the recently tabled ethics reform policy is given new life, which I'm certain it will.
What's the point? I think the point is so county employees will not be involved in politics on county time.
Well, I'm fairly certain that's the law now, isn't it?
What do you think?

107 comments:

Anonymous said...

ETHICS???????????????????

Will that mean county employees will not have to sell beef & beer tickets? Will not have to work the polls? Will not have to hand out campaign literature? Put up campaign signs? Will not have to kiss their bosses lower posterior?
Employees want a job-benefits-Sat. and Sun. off. Of course it takes politics to accomplish all of these. There is NO ethics in any form of government, and government does'nt care. Thank you Mr. Huskey for alowing me to vent. The Country is going down the TOILET.

Anonymous said...

Stan:
Why don't you expand this blog to include the various boroughs and townships in Eastern Montco also. It would appear to me that certain elected officials in townships such as Lower Providence don't have have the slightest clue that ethics and politics never mix(can you say big money contractors?). I didn't intend to use the the noun "oxymoron" in my post since several of our elected officials would have no idea of it's actual meaning. See you at the polls!
The Professor
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

As a long time resident of 20 years, I found the Professor's comment regarding the BOS very interesting and actually very factual. After several phone calls, I was given the name of my committee person who confirmed the fact that the biggest culprit of all is the current Supervisor running for reelection as an unendorsed candidate. After seeing what Mr. Dininny has done to Audubon, there is no doubt in my mind how my husband and adult children will vote. Good bye Mr. Dininny!
Betty McF.
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Stan; When the FEDS get done in Limerick would it be possible for them to come East? Just over the Collegeville bridge. Then they can work on the Ethics Board in Harrisburg who are totality useless. I have to agree with Betty,she should have left off the OXY in Oxymoron to describe the person running for office.

Anonymous said...

IF the Ethics Ruling were in place now... as our Commissioner Hoeffel who lives in that famous "Glass House"...our Court House and ALL EMPLOYEES would be out of work. Remember the famous "HOLIDAY" WHICH WE REFER TO AS ELECTION DAY"??? How many Departments are working?? What about the various Clubs that meet in Blue Bell and on the Ridge Union Hall that are strictly political and the members are and have been working for or working within the Court House. The Anonymous Blogger on another subject "Road will be traveled often" stated our Commissioners need to get their Heads on straight.

Anonymous said...

Politics! I'm a volunteer at the Polls in LP and sometimes in UP. I have noticed committee people that are employeed by the Townships, County and state are also working the Polls. One gentleman that works for the system here in Montgomery County said "My Boss told me to work this Poll", after I asked him who is tending the store. Interesting, our Commissioners surely are sitting on their thought process - yes, we did vote them in - sorry!

Anonymous said...

After the Feds get through in Limerick??? Are you referring to the PE Plant that was built with no prior planning and now the whole area is deadlocked - no way out - that is. What builders are responsible for the grid on 422, Pottstown and Royersford Area? There certainly must have been some State and Fed. payoff or palm soothing going on. We find that most interesting. Well, that will take a lot of he - she said and right now the Dem. do not need more Fed. inquiries.

Anonymous said...

The solution is: All calls from or for any County Employees must be recorded (both incoming or outgoing). The use of Cell Phones can only be used inside or outside of any County Building and not during the stated time the personnel should be working or also having a break. Any Political Literature published may not be distributed by any person working for our county. This along with any employee being barred from running for any Political Office, sure would slim down qualified or unqualified candidates... and we are left with???

Anonymous said...

LP has two well educated business people running for the positions of Supervisor. They are Eckman and Thomas. The two candidates have been concerned about the "business" of LP for quite a few years...check them out. Tom will agree we do have great people here in LP, along with you know who - yes, Tom Bori. We truly would not have to worry about Ethics if they were in position now.

Anonymous said...

Stan:
I agree 100% with the March 29 Anonymous' blog regarding the three capable citizens running for Supervisor. However I must comment on Mr. Borai; I have been a resident of this township for over 20 years and have never met a more dedicated, knowledgable, and honest individual. With his many years of experience as a Township supervisor and member of the Zoning Hearing Board serving Lower Providence, how could we not elect this fine man. Mr. Borai has come out his well earned retirement to bring back honest government to this Township. Please give him all your support. I know the our family will!
Betty McF.
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

I hope Risa is going to use her own money to sue. She called this a waste of time and money. Well, she wastes a lot of time with her press conferences. Could have done without a copy clerk if she stopped yapping. I agree with enforcing this law! Castor can work on a Saturday and pick up $70k by retiring, but I and other taxpayers aren't supposed to be perturbed by that? Then he admits to campaigning on county time. Yes, Hoeffel said he did the wrong thing, too, and that is why there needs to be something in place to stop this nonsense and waste of taxpayers' money!

And Queen Risa will be able to put in quality time WORKING instead of posturing like the "Castor Protégé" that she is!

ssdd in Montco 040309 1:31 p.m.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Please..tell me my eyes and my brain have malfunctioned. These three men are running our County? Well, we will not have to worry if our County Government has enough employees working on ANY ELECTION DAY..they will be and not volunteering. No more requests from Party Headquarters or the News Media for publicity prior to an election. I believe we are back to the good olde days..horse and carriage and operator ring three...no blackberrys.

Anonymous said...

Ethics & Politics ?? Politics in all the surrounding Counties, Chester, Berks, Bucks,& Philadelphia all seem to have one big problem and that is Ethics. We presume that the people we have followed for a few years and thought highly of them turn out to be backroom dealers. Here in Montgomery County our Commissioners make me sick. I thought they were truly interested in Montgomery County, but they are acting like second grade students that can not believe their way is not necessary the correct direction. Grow Up!

Anonymous said...

who is running in LPT for supervisor?? Eckman and Thomas have a website that comes up with nothing..... NOT A GOOD SIGN 'www.lpvictory.com' talk about ETHICS

tim

Anonymous said...

Tim:
I think possibly you have managed to epitomize the definition of Oxymoron. Please allow me the opportunity to correct your 4/4/09 post. Both endorsed Republican candidates Colleen Eckman and Don Thomas have active established websites. Colleen's is www.LPVictory09.com and Don's is www.ElectDonThomas.com. Try them yourself and verify their existence. Now if you are questioning the Republican challenger's web sites, that could be a horse of a different color.
The Profeesor
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Tim, please come join us on April 24 at 6:30PM at Chateau Granieri. We, LP Republicans will gather and the new Leaders will be present to help you with any questions concerning LP and what they see happening in the very near future. Check with Colleen or Don for all the information you may need. See you in West Norriton's famous gathering hole for all political functions.

Anonymous said...

We have many devoted people here in Montgomery County that only wish our Commissioners would settle down and do their job. Publicity that has been created by the he said/she said and they were supposed to be working or they were told to take the day off is getting stale. Commissioners, tend to your business and let we lowly volunteers and part time people do the campaigning the old fashion way, door to door. Township Committee people that are employeed by County must certainly make sure no business or campaign issues are done on County Time. Keep personal issues/Township Issues and County/State separate. Lots of luck! Our commissioner in the Glass House only sees evil in the other party personnel - too bad. Grow Up!

Anonymous said...

We will be there! Questions and answeres? Right from the horses (the candidates) mouth. There will be no excuse for saying I thought...???

Anonymous said...

Anonymous 4/17
How many will be at your table on 4/24?? We have enough for two and counting. Glad you are supporting the younger generation that also is willing to to listen to the older generation and present their new ideas. We wish there were three openings so Tom would also be seated - can't have everything.

Anonymous said...

This is strictly Politics - Washington Kind
An AP listing under "Spending Cuts" in todays paper lists the following: $6.07 could be saved over five years - US Attorneys Offices & US Marshalls Offices' Asset Forfeiture program convert publication of forfeiture notices from NEWSPAPERS TO THE INTERNET. Now that is progress? Please read this report that is suggested and the many ways they see in cutting costs, which in turn will kill many businesses and the employment figure will not be on the Plus side either. I prefer to READ, which Obama is stressing for young and old, but why limit the source? Our children learn by reading newspapers, books on various subjects and magazines. If we start to close the gap of learning by not placing information about all phases of government in the newspapers as well as TV and Internet, one generation will lose the ability to see many sides of stories and government's procedures that at present are required by law.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous you mean $6.07 Million, right?? That AP Article was very interesting. Now, let's see how this all shakes out...This is one spending cut that "Should Never Be"... Get on your Representative's "E" and have them cut some place else - the out-to-sea causes would be great and fuel for #1 Aircraft for our Leader and his men/women.

Anonymous said...

How many courthouse employees will be using their "Personal Day" on election day?? It is for sure many Committee People and those in the maintenance departments at the courthouse and the County Parks will have a tough time explaining why this day is so precious to them or is it their Boss?? This election is not a Federal Holiday, am I correct? Is this a State or County Holiday that was slipped in without we mere voters knowing? Many Polls are lucky to have High School Seniors that are now 18 and are willing to help at their Polling Place and also Vote for the first time - this is great.

Anonymous said...

For some reason, most voters believe the Primary Election Day is a holiday and most schools are closed - they are used as Polling Places - so it would make sense. Our county employees usually use this day as a holiday or a day with pay. Really, a Primary Election is most important for both parties as this is the great one that pits the two winners against each other in the fall. So, if it is or is not a holiday, take time to vote - it is very important and you have enough time to bone up on all candidates. Do not rely on the saying "they know the ropes - we will not have to bring them up to speed" There is a lot of talent out there so old and new would make a great mix.

Fed Up said...

Chateau Granieri in West Norriton? Did Eckman and Thomas forget which township's jobs they're running for? What, couldn't they locate a venue INSIDE Lower Providence to hold their fundraising events? Yeah they really have the best interests of the community whose votes and dollars they want at heart, don't they? Way to NOT support the commercial tax base guys. Amateurs. They are posers as much as Arlen Specter is.

And by the way, to the poster who posted about LP ethics on March 20. What are you talking about? There haven't been any newspaper articles about any ethics violations in LP since Lomire left office 4 years ago, and certainly nothing involving anyone sitting on the board now. Some people with a lot of time on their hands love to throw allegations around but the state ethics board never finds anything credible as a result.

Anonymous said...

Dear Fed Up:
You made an interesting point in your post regarding ethics. Wasn't it a sitting supervisor, Mr. Dininny who voted "YEA" to give Mr. Lomire everything he requested while he sat on the board and continued to support him after he resigned. Furthermore isn't this the same Mr. Dininny who is running for reelection! Hopefully his ethics will be tested at the polls.
Frequent Voter
Lower Providence Twp.

Can't wait to vote said...

To the Fed up; I understand that the Dininny & Dougherty team have it in their web site about a meet your candidate at the Club at Shannondell.at $100.00 a pop. Wonder who has the ownership of that plaace?? People in glass houses don't throw stones. I read somewhere that there would be no stones thrown in this race for Supervisor. What a bunch of bullcrap.

Anonymous said...

Club Shannondell is a great place with the horses and excellent food behind the gates. They advertise the great golfing experience for their guests. I was questioned on that very subject. My comment was it is open to the Public and the IOU is to LP. Where is the course? Why, it's on the old GW Swim Club property and that too is open to the public for a small seasonal price tag. I do believe our Supervisors have lofty ideas when the price tag is $100.00 a pop or a mom to raise funds for their campaign. How much will go for the food, plus tax, plus the grat. which is now 18%? Fund raising is no fun anymore.

Fed Up said...

Can't wait to vote, check your facts. The taxpayers of LP own that place and every building on it. Every dollar ANYBODY spends there helps support LP's tax base, which keeps its residents tax bill down. My township tax bill went DOWN $48 bucks this year, which in a year I lost my job, I personally appreciate very much. I don't think any other township's tax bill went down. How much are the private owners of the Chateau kicking into LP's tax coffers?? We should elect people who look out for the very people who elect them.

Colleen and Don, note to self: Those folks aren't living in
West Norriton. And neither are you.

Can't wait to vote said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Can't wait to vote said...

To the Fed up Person:

The building that sit on the golf course property were built by the Neilson Family. They under agreement with L.P will pay the township a sum of $100,000 a year for at least twenty five years. They then have an option for another twenty five after that.

The $100,000 is not being used to reduce the bond issue.

You must be a choice person to have your taxes reduced,my taxes have not been changed.

I understand that Mr. Dininny and Mr. Dougherty had a fund raiser at Chadwick's at $100.00 a head. They invited the residents of Shannondell to attend at no cost.

Is this what you meant when you state,"we should take care of those who take care of us." Is'nt this called buying your vote?

Wonder how this will show up on the financial report at the county?

Is this another way to cover cash donations by developers?

I understand that the Attorney General may be investigating a township nearby...maybe he can stop by L.P. in his travels.

P.S. Mr. Huskey, I did not request my last comment to be cancelled.

Anonymous said...

One of the problems that us Democrats face are all of the entrenched Republican Committee people at the polls.

You have men and women with gratis jobs that take the day off at the courthouse and go shake hands at the wills of their bosses.

A bunch of us are going out to the polls with cameras this primary. If it's no big deal, then these people wont mind having their pictures taken working the polls, when they should be at work.

Anonymous said...

What's the point about your Ethics opinion? You have none, so you're the oxyMORON!

Ambler Citizen not served by tabloid herald.

Anonymous said...

Ethics - Picture Taking - The Poll Volunteers. We, dedicated citizens, wishing to volunteer our Election Day off from work, and are now working at our Court House, would be glad to pose for your Brownie. I would like an 8 1/2 x 11 glossy.

Trooper Mary said...

Flash....The latest gossip from L.P.

The D's had a meeting with the Republicans for Supervisor at the famous Shannondell resort.

They were the only candidates invited.

I understand that the big issue with these seniors is the road that will eventuality be built between Park Ave & Egypt Road.

If the D's follow thru if elected, with this promise, the taxpayers of L.P. should hold them responsible and throw them out of office.

I thought as one get's older in age,one get's smarter.

Don't let the younguns pull the wool over your eyes.

Collegeville Mole said...

Trooper Mary; You were correct about Dininny & Dougherty attending the Shannondell get togeather. What you don't know is they promised the residents in attendance that if they are elected they will NOT open Shannondell Blvd. from Park Ave and Egypt Roads. All of their literture received at this household speak of traffic problems within the township. Wasn't this one of the reasons to elevate the traffic headache at Bud's corner? Be careful what you promise, it may come back to bite you in the a##.

Anonymous said...

Well US DEMOCRATS I will be in Worcester and Lower Prov. at some point on Election Day. I'm having a Tee Shirt with an US Democrats printed on it and also Donkeys and a saying "Yous don't know nuttin about them big politicians guys." No, I'll cover it over so the workers inside the Polling Places do not get side-stitches from laughter. See you-all at the Polls, it will be a great day, no matter who wins, it will be a day of change we hope.

Anonymous said...

Hey Mole; Just received Mr. Dininny's and Dougherty's third piece of literature. When did they take those pictures of traffic movements? I believe it must have been 4 in the morning.

Try those corners starting at 3 P.M. and then take a picture.

Those two guy's must consider all residents of L.P. idiots .

What a piece of work.

Unbelievable said...

To Anonymous on May 7: Are you smoking crack? I came through that intersection just today at aruond 5:45 and it was clear sailing in all directions. I remember how it used to back up halfway to Trooper Road and almost to Crawford on the Park Ave side. It's great now. You send those guys up to Upper Prov if don't want them, we've got some real traffic problems up there to contend with. You don't know a good thing when you see it.

Anonymous said...

Lisa,

Your anonymous posts are as transparent and ridiculous as your editorials.

Go back to your cartooniville blog.

Eckman and Thomas are the answer.

Anonymous said...

Ethics,Politics and Unbelieveable in LP... Way to go Risa...you were elected with no strings attached when we chose you and your staff to guide the District Attorneys Office. As for Politics - It truly shows here with Hoffel/Hoeffel and Matthews joining forces that caused the graying matter upstairs (brain not the lack of hair or quanity of hair)to be quite thin. What a shame! Both Parties are on the negative side now, just like Philadelphia and their council. It has turned out, in this case, Mayor Nutter is, A Nutter Mayor, trying to do something about the cause of their tax collection and the value of homes and life in the city with little success.

Anonymous said...

Eckman and Thomas The answer to what?????????

From these posts Borai seems to have the goods on everyone and everything.

I guess he's just an old man from the past.

Anonymous said...

Old men don't win the battle------Just the WAR.

Anonymous said...

Turnout is going to be very low? Well, that is the thinking of the Voter Registration Dept Head. here in Montg. County. What a shame! We are a split family and a flyer for the Dems. was just physically delivered and the smell of fresh ink filled the air. Yes, Montco Democrats Area 4 is adding a personal touch or is an OOPS on the part of their Committee People? Qualifications do matter, so we here in this household went over the complete list last week. Our chosen candidates are on our to-do-list for tomorrow's election.

Anonymous said...

Just came back from visiting various Polls and voting. I found many volunteers handing out literature were mostly new and on the most part young and in the 30-45 year age group, but the exception being of course the Old Guys that are retired and will never give up. The Employees of our County were not there as they were for the Primary Election last year. I do not believe it was the 1:00 - 3:00 PM time frame that would have changed their being at their poll. So, are they afraid of being halled into the Commissioners' Office and the great pink? The Dems. at one Poll were siting on lawn chairs taking in rays at the church where I vote. Neither my husband or I knew them, but surely they are from Lower Prov. I hope or maybe from the Union Hall Group that was so active last year. What ever the reason, there certainly was quite a few volunteers with few to none voters, now that is sad.

Anonymous said...

It's a damn shame for the amount of voters that showed up to vote in Lower Providence Township.
For those who stayed home please don't be a NIMBY when you have a problem. I still believe that the Supervisors and School Board members should have at their disposal a voters list showing who voted at primary and general elections. If their name is not on the list they do not get the opportunity to speak at a meeting.

Life is Great to be a "D" said...

Stan, I guess the promise to close Shannondell Blvd. from Park Ave. to Trooper Road fell flat on it's face on Tuesday. Dininny & Dougherty promised the old folks (some who never heard of L.P.) if they voted for them the road would remained closed. These two same candidates promised the voters that they would take care of the traffic problems facing L.P. They scored big at the Shannondell poll but got their butts kicked by the younger generation who has to face the traffic problem day by day. The race has not come to an end,the general election in November will have the R's face a tough competitor in their "d" foe. What's the old saying? "Don't count your chickens".

Boudica said...

Got their butts kicked by the younger generation? If you think that Eckman & Thomas were really behind their own campaign you are seriously naive. Hell I'M part of the 'younger generation' and I voted for D/D. The LP Old Guard (60+) was firmly behind and in control of E/Ts effort. They picked two fluffheaded people who don't mind being used as puppets and are too blind to see it (until the first time they disagree with Grampa Rick).

As for Shannondell, who in their right mind would advocate putting a major roadway through an old-age home?? Really? If your parent or grandparent lived there, you'd be OK with that? Unlike most people in LP, those folks vote in staggering numbers and deserve to be listened to. They're a hell of lot bigger special interest group than the five people holding the ARc hostage or the five residents who sued over CVS and Commerce.

Trooper Mary said...

Hey Boudica;

Putting a major roadway through an old-age home? I believe the mailers Shannondell sends me describes Shannondell as a 55 and over Senior Retirement Community.
NOT AN OLD AGE HOME.

The staggering numbers you mention are residents who know nothing about Lower Providence Township, only about a road that the owner requested when Shannondell was proposed.

You are correct when you say special interest group. The only issue at the 3-4 polling place was the road proposed by the owners of Shannodell.

If your part of the younger group, I guess you lost your shirt with all the BIG hitters who sponsoredthe two you voted for.

Big money lost out to two new faces & ideas. I believe you called them E-T's.

The old guard 60+ frequent voters along with the young guard sent the D's to the showers.

Please get a life. You know not what your talking about.

Anonymous said...

A question for Boudica. The youngster. Was'nt it the two D's literature that stated they would relieve the traffic problems in L.P.? Joining Shannondell Blvd. with Trooper road is called relief.

Question youngster. How successful was the two D's in getting Shannondell road closed? I believe the 5's CVS-Commerce,Arc won both battles. A little stronger than the five hundred who could not get the D's elected.

Sort of like David and Goliath would you say?

Boudica said...

Trooper Mary/anonymous: Attack mailers filled with blatant lies is what sent D&D to the showers, nothing more, nothing less. I was embarrassed and disgusted that it was my party that had the cajones to mail those out and put their names on it. That turned on their own, and ran their party into the ground, in a scorched-earth effort to seal, excuse me, STEAL, an election. Maybe you're the Mary who put her name on that piece, eh?

And shame on those voters who were so eager to believe negative crap someone feeds them rather than educating themselves. I guess it's easier to let self-appointed know-it-alls with their own agenda spoonfeed you easily digestible garbage than do the inconvenient work of vetting a candidate yourself.

Newspaper articles, county officials and publications, and the neighboring townships' elected officals ALL support D&Ds claims on their mailers. The attack mailers claims are easily proven to be false if you do the homework.

I do know what I'm talking about. I did my homework. As far as 'winning battles', last I checked the ARC was still here and moving forward, and people who weren't even in office at the time (or since) claim they accomplished the intersection improvements they are on record as fighting so hard AGAINST.

Of course now that it looks wonderful and traffic flows better(not perfect but def better) they all line up to take credit. My prediction is that they'll all show up to cut the ribbon and take credit for the beautiful ARC building in a few years too.

Joining Shannondell Blvd with Trooper Road or Park Avenue just moves one problem somewhere else. It doesn't solve anything yet creates a safety issue in an area where high risk drivers LIVE. If your neighborhood is between two heavily travelled roads, are you telling me it's OK if cars use your street as a high-speed cutthrough? Because if not then it should not be ok for Shannondell either.

Those folks may be 'newer' residents but they still pay taxes here and support businesses here, just like you do. Or do you just feel that old people's votes don't matter unless they support your candidates?

New faces and ideas? Hardly. They had what Obama had...pretty words with no substance behind them. And fanatical supporters with questionable ethics. I don't call that ETs. I call that a Democrat.

Hightower said...

Boudica/Aciduod backwards.anonymous

How can one person be so bitter unless it was a canidate beaten. As a frequent voter(Republican) I received all literature sent by all candidates for the position of Supervisor. My husband and I read all the literature and looked at all the pretty pictures of the candidates. The pictures of the traffic at vital areas of the township were shots to behold. I hope and pray that my great grandkids will be living to see the completion of the Arc. And with all your knowledge of traffic in the area, what street in L.P. is not a cut through other than cul-d-sacs. After doing OUR homework we discovered that two candidates had their largest vote
count coming from the old folks home after promising them a road closing. It seems that the only candidates literature that did not cut into personalities and gave us his background got his butt kicked. You may be correct that people do not do their homework when checking out a candidate,but, the vote has been counted,the winners are picked for the general election, and if your the true republican you say you are you will know how to cast your vote.

Peace brother.

Boudica said...

Nope, not a candidate, never was, never will be. And if I ever wanted to be, it sure wouldn't be here. One doesn't need to be a candidate to see the obvious. And one doesn't need a candidates literature to know how to think. And bitter? No, just disgusted with my own party. A house divided cannot stand, and the Dems are banging on the door (probably laughing their butts off too). Only a matter of time.

You bet I know how I'll vote and it won't be for those heartless liars. Clueless and classless is not a good combination and can only hurt our community.

Anonymous said...

Lower Prov. Streets.
We were coming home from K of P two weeks ago and of course turned on to Audubon Road that would connect us with our Development. Traffic, as usual is slow but most people are accustomed to it and wait in line. Well, one young man in a little pick-up, followed me on to Thrush Lane and due to cars parked on both sides it tends to be a little tricky. As I turned to go around one of the parked cars, this man actually passed me and almost ran into another car parked on the other side of the street - dangerous actions - and then of course the Stop sign on Lantern did not mean one thing. Thru Traffic within a community sometimes is dangerous if we do not have Police Presence to back the traffic flow problems regarding Speed and Stop Signs. I do see the Shannondell Blvd. as one road that was not thought through going into Giant and over to Trooper Road. Planning for Shannondell to Park Avenue will have traffic relief, but at a cost of caution for those dwelling at that retirement home and Police presence until drivers understand the limits that are inplace.

Over the Hill said...

Lower Providence streets.

A cop on every corner...Great.

Then your taxes go up...No so great.

Shannondell.Blvd. How about stop signs at the gate entrances. Seniors know what they mean. I hope.

How about testing all seniors over 80 for reactions behind the wheel. If they don't pass shoot them.(only kidding).

I believe you stated that a stop sign was in place...the driver of the pick-up was not detered from running it. Get the license number the police will do their part, that's what there paid to do.

Boudica said...

Ronald Reagan himself once said "Governments tend not to solve problems, only to rearrange them".

Sounds to me like the situation at Shannondell is exactly that. Putting the road through or not, neither is a fantastic option. Each has negatives. I would think one would pick the lesser of two evils. Only one option does not create an additional safety problem by endangering elderly people.

There are many ways to 'relieve traffic problems'. If you think that's the only one there is, you're not very resourceful, are you? If there's a third option that is more palatable, let 'er rip.

Anonymous said...

Third Option.

Tear down Shannondell.

Trooper Mary said...

Hey Bodica,

Give me a break, what are you talking about. Shannondell is a 55 and older community, 35% of Lower Providence is over 55, I wonder how they get out of their driveways and navigate Egypt Rd, Ridge Pike, Park Ave, Pawlings Rd, Egypt Rd, etc. Why are the Shannondell residents so special, because they have money? Or, is it because they vote and everyone in both parties knows it and panders to them like little kids. A lot of Shannondell residents still have jobs and go to work every day like I do, how are they so different than me. I work with one of them and she says put in the road and be done with it. She has to drive all the way around the township to get where she is going.

Who ever heard of having 2500 housing units on a dead end road, I bet there isn't another development like this that doesn't come out on a main road. Wait till they have an emergency and the road is blocked, the ambulance or fire trucks can's get there and somebody dies, who's to blame then? Probably the ambulance squad cause they don't have choppers. I agree with one poster, maybe it is time to tear down or limit any more building over there until this road issue is resolved.

Trooperr Mary said...

I want to thank the last poster for using my handle. I could not have said it any better. Thanks.

Anonymous said...

A Poster on another Blog back in the early part of June asked what was to become of Sacret Heart and Montgomery Hospital buildings. Has anyone heard anything regarding their fate? What about "The Bridge" over Swede Street so the Ganders do not get their heads wet? Probably the $1 Mil. could be used for this purpose. Oh, yes Politics is some game - but it is "Our Tax Money" they are using or not using for the good of ALL.

Anonymous said...

Well Mr.Huskey, all the slander supoena's have been served to the endorsed LPT Republican candidates, their managers and committee people by our well known local trash collector and the word is all through the township. I'm wondering if the Times Herald will be printing this news, or is it another one of those issues where the TH sees nothing, hears nothing and says nothing. Your call Mr. Huskey!
Peninsula Dweller
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Trooper Mary - yes there is another development like that one, not 2500 residences, but it was done for even fewer homes (I think it's what, 200? 250?). What's the name of that development where Redtail Road? Highley Road, are? The top end nearest to Arcola was originally opened, then closed at the residents' request.

We've been there done that, and Shannondell is even more reason to do it again. And that was for safety reasons, requested by the 30-45 year old set that lives there, sick of seeing speeding cars tearing through the neighborhood and almost running over their little kids. And you want to talk inconvenience? Every time you have to run your kid up to Arcola from anywhere south in the township you have to go way out of your way. Small price to pay for saving some kid, or some old person's life, isn't it? Or are you suggesting your friend racing on her way to work is more important than not mowing people down.

This township is unfortunately saddled with traffic problems coming from other places (and in no small measure made a lot worse recently by Upper Prov). Why should we have to make our own residents suffer because of it. If you don't like the fact that we are a gateway community to Philly and KOP, simply by virtue of where we are situated, which can't be changed, then I suggest you move to Lancaster where they still run around in horses and buggies. That might be more your speed.

Anonymous said...

Kids should not be in playing in the street and the name of the subdivision is Audubon Ridge. Trooper Mary please get real estate agent. You really need one.

Anonymous said...

Highly Road was never legally closed. So use it all you want.

Anonymous said...

Maybe, maybe not, but either way something was done to effectively close it off from through traffic. Using that road to get from the Sunnyside area up to Eagleville Road behind the school is impossible, what with the rocks and other obstructions and sign that says 'private drive'. You might be able to get around all that with a motorcycle but that's about it.

Maybe Eckman and Thomas should look into reopening THAT, since it may not be 'legally closed'. I bet those residents don't think that's a 'smart traffic solution'. Or was it 'intelligent traffic solution'? Their literature was so similar to each other's (and Chris DiPaolo's) that I just can't remember. Either way the whole idea of putting cut through traffic thru residential areas of any kind seems incredibly dumb to me.

Why I will not vote Republican said...

Mr. Huskey; If you were a Democrat I bet you a buck that all the blogs that have come to your attention on the J. P. Mascaro issue would have been posted.

Your article in yesterday's paper only mentioned Mr. Fox interview, you have the whole story in my last blog,why don't you print it?

Everything quoted can be verified by your courthouse reporter who wrote the article.

Do you think the Republican Party may lose the big spenders and Mr. Kerns feelings will get hurt?

If one has to look up defamation,read the Times Heralds & Mercury's articles about certain issues in Limerick with drugs and battery.

A happy motorist in L.P. said...

Highly road was closed due to politics. The Supervisors pushed the traffic onto Ringneck, a road you can barely ride a cycle on.

Can't imagine where you are finding all those rocks and other obstructions, I use that road every day.

Why is it that every one thinks Eckman & Thomas are a shoe in?
There will be two capable Democrats running in the November election.

I believe when the gentleman at the corner of Eagleville & Highly wins his battle Highly will be opened again. Then the Township will have to put in the other lane they removed.

Anonymous said...

Where's the Suit????????????/

Township plans to file suit in trash dispute

Saturday March 7,2009
By Carl Rotenberg Times Herald Staff

Lower Providence- Solicitor Robert Kerns and the Board of Supervisors discussed plans Thursday night to file a legal complaint seeking a declaratory judgement against J.P. Mascaro & Sons of Lower Providence.

Why is MR. Kerns so concerned about the suit filed per your article yesterday and not concerned about this one?

Why do you cover these stories with no follow through?

Your paper is better than this.

Anonymous said...

One suit is a technicality, or formality, to settle a minor dispute; the other involves criminal violations of election law. Big difference in seriousness & level of interest.

Anonymous said...

Vendor sues Township

Township sues Vendor

Is this anyway to conduct good business practice?

Criminal violations of election law? What is it?

One can defame himself & family without the help of others.

Law suits can turn up a lot of dead bodies that will hurt more than a piece of campaign literature.

The eighty's were hell in L.P.

The Times Herald covered it well with a great court reporter.

Anonymous said...

Say What? Give any person a piece of your mind and guess what - you will be court. Brag about anything you have accomplished within a Township/Town or County, they will call it politics in action. One sure thing is we do keep our legal system running 100%...

Anonymous said...

The people who made in 'hell in he eighties' in LP are the very same folks supporting and directing the actions of the newbies to the political scene in LP. So, no wonder it's like de ja vu here recently.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous 6/26:
Who should the 80's people support other than the "newbies"? Should they support the current triumvirate who will change an ordinance at any time for a developer(has anyone ever wondered why?)and destroy the history of our Township for a big box store or bank, or should they support a former Supervisor that was instrumental in bringing LPT all the tall buildings and the resultant traffic problems along with it. If he was so right in his actions, why did he lose twice in township elections, he certainly had enough financial support. Maybe, just maybe these so called "newbies will have some new and fresh ideas when those two incumbents are gone in December. It appears to me that was the mandate LPT voters gave them. I certainly hope so for all our sakes.
Mary McF.
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Mary - if the 'newbies' actually HAD new ideas, or any ideas that were their own and not those of the 80's folks, I'd agree with you. Change can be good. But they ran on literature that was identical to someone else's (a former D from Philly, by the way - are THOSE the 'new ideas' you wanta?) and with the full support of the old guard that made the 80s a nightmare. They were handpicked and groomed by them primarily BECAUSE they will not challenge the old guard's thinking with any new ideas, but rather will let them run the show.

Dininny had new ideas, and the guts to implement them, and wouldn't roll over and let Rick make a puppet out of him. Instead he stuck up for himself and his vision, which I think is what we want in a leader, not a follower.

Mark my words, if Don and Colleen get in, things will go quietly until the very first time they want to break ranks with Rick or Chris. Then they'll crap all over them too.

And no, I'm not Dininny or anyone else who's run or will run for office. I'm just calling 'em like I see 'em.

Sideliner said...

Wow anon you said "Dininny had new ideas, and the guts to implement them, and wouldn't roll over and let Rick make a puppet out of him. Instead he stuck up for himself and his vision, which I think is what we want in a leader, not a follower."

Please help me out here, what was Dininny's vision, his new ideas, and where were they carried out? From my side of the street, I saw Dininny as a follower, not a leader, he was listening to someone not on the board but someone interested in development in LP. It is just that simple. you would have to be living under a pot not to understand who this is.

Trooper Mary said...

Hey call them like you see them. If you visualize Mr. Dinniny as a
visionary you better get your eyes checked.

Mr. Dininny did such a great job the voters of L.P. ousted him on two strikes, Committee Man & Supervisor.

Everyone is getting mixed up on the eighties. I believe the anonymous writer from the 25th of June was referring to all the bribes that took place in Montgomery County and L.P.

The election is OVER, the voters have spoken, some of us are happy,some sad, let's put this to bed, unless you have a crystal ball and can foresee what the future holds.

Stan, can we give this a rest in peace,Please.

Anonymous said...

Sideliner: You claim not to be an elected official or a candidate yet you politically doublespeak! You and I both know that Mr. Dininny sold his soul to the big developers and now the devil will has his due with his political career in five months. Most of us residents will be marking time until then. Please don't send me an invitation to his going away party, we'll be having our own.
Mary McF
Audubon, Pa

Confused said...

Mary McF


You owe Sideliner an apology, you got his post crossed with anon of 6/29, 12:16 PM, an insomniac who praises all of Dininny's good works.

Anonymous said...

Sideliner: I have been rebuked for my error and I sincerely apoligize for my shot at you. We obviously are in agreement, not disagreement about Mr. Dininney's lack of vision. Nothing more constructive can be said at this time. Again, sorry for the mistake.
Betty McF.
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

I never cease to be amazed by those who 'know' everything. I do know who you are referring to, and I know that person retired from public life almost five years ago due to health issues and hasn't been seen or heard from politically, by anyone, since. Your claim is laughable. By the way, not all development or developers are evil. And without them Lord only knows how far you'd be driving to buy your coffee or groceries. There really is no 'vast right wing conspiracy' or any other conspiracy theories around LP. Just bored people tired of the soap operas on TV so they make up their own.

Anonymous said...

When do you have to be seen or heard from to be involved behind the scenes.

You know who still pulling the strings, at least until 2010.

Anonymous said...

June 30th Poster:
You haven't a clue on what's going on in Lower Providence Township and who is actually running the Triumvirate of Supervisors and causing them to them ask "how high and how much". You don't think they actually make their own decisions do you? Didn't think so. That is why the informed voters in this Township threw them out the second time around.
Betty McF.
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Stan: Carl had a very good article in this morning's Times Herald regarding the road through Shannondell and Supervisor Dininny's comments regarding this road. It appears to me that his comments are political paybacks for favors granted in the past primary election. The election is over, he has lost, and the issue should be put to bed. The road is part of Shannondell's agreed upon expansion and if it affects several hundred people, but benefits more than several thousand, where's the issue. Mr Dininny please stop your political paybacks, be a stand up guy and end your political career like a man I think you are.
Celtic Slayer
Trooper, Pa

Anonymous said...

Betty McF - your post just tells me you don't know crap, and certainly not any of the players either in government here or who do business here. It DOES tell me that you believe everything you read, including the mailers full of BS that are now the subject of a lawsuit. But hey, I'm sure you had better things to do than verify D&D's claims, which were true and verifiable six ways to Sunday if you'd even tried. I bet you did more research figuring out which American Idol to vote for. Good to know you have your priorities straight.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous 7/8/09 Blogger:
Please allow me to respond to your criticism of my recent comments. Mr. Dininny, thank you for your vote of confidence in my thought processes, and I now find it extermly gratifying that you have read and reread all your campaign literature and actually believe in all your wonderful accomplishments. considering the useless verbage and inaccuracies in them. My family especially enjoyed your statement about the 28 million dollars you managed to secure for all the Route 422 improvements that benefitted only West Norriton and Upper Merion Townships. Our voters really thanked for that one at election time. In as far as a lawsuit is concerned, isn't that suit called a S.L.A.P.P. suit in layman's terms and means just "frivolous". That law suit will be going the same place you are going in a few months, and that's out the door.
Peninsula Dweller
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

Mr. Huskey:
I have just read today's Times Herald article regarding The J.P. Mascaro lawsuit against the endoresd Republican candidates with both much interest and confusuion. What does a township vendor hope to accomplish with this lawsuit. It has been my understanding that Mascaro's contract with Lower Providence expires early next year. So what could he possibly gain, except to lose his possible chances of a contract renewal by suing a sitting supervisor and two possible new supervisors? Is there other political games that we are not aware? Otherwise Mr. Huskey that is a classic example of an "oxymoron".
Concerned Citizen
Audubon, Pa

Anonymous said...

I have been watching the AM Traffic at Pawlings/Park Ave & Egypt for the last few weeks. The traffic around 8:30-9:30 most days are backed up. Taking note as to the destination of the cars - they turn on to Audubon Road. So, if at all possible the Shannondell Drive is a great idea when it comes to a thru street. Traffic would go directly to Trooper Road and not clog the village interesection. Stop complaining about how the retirees will be inconvenienced (really!) and think of the whole situation. The original plan was correct regarding the road but as for the highrise?? You got me there,why would any elderly person want to live in an apartment that high up and use an elevator?

Anonymous said...

Stan, I believe there is a need for a Blog strictly for LP. There seems to be nothing good to say lately and the people that are going thru the village are complaining the most. We the homeowners will vote in the public officials we believe will do the best job. That is how I see it.

Anonymous said...

That sounds great, a Blog for each Township. Maybe if the dirty laundry or a job well done is out there in public view and specifically for that Township, something will be done faster by the administration. You know their self image is important! A lot of times complaining to the head of a department does not get results or is filed in the round file. It would be worth a try for say six months. It would work something like our 2 cent column, but Blog style.

Anonymous said...

What on earth is the July 9 blogger talking about? Ever since the third lane was added on Rt 422 it now only takes me 5 minutes to get from KOP to LP at the height of rush hour, whereas before it was at least a half hour bumper-to-bumper to go that short distance. Of course now everyone I know who lives past the Trooper/Audubon exit complains that THEY have to wait, but boo hoo for them. Our township did right by us and I'm grateful for the money they DID get from Washington for that extra lane. Because of that I've been able to make a lot more of my kids' sporting events.

Anonymous said...

If you work for our County - keep your mouth shut, do not display any sticker on your car or answer any question while at work or at home when questioned by an outsider. That is exactly how it is right now, so if you are thinking of running for a state/county/township/council seat - remember the above.
I for one am supporting a young woman that is running for a Supervisor position. She is going round and round with a local business that deals with the township. This problem is who & how much was contributed to a certain campaign that was printed
in her literature - I'll let the court decide. As I said, she is my candidate that we here in this family believe in her ability to move our township forward.
Now, as for the company, they have always done a great job for the township, but they are not running for the position of Supervisor, they have a contract that is all and that is under the business of the township.
So, support your candidate and don't let the apples and oranges situation cause a great candidate be overlooked.

Anonymous said...

Have you been watching Channel 12 between 8 & 10 every evening this week and I believe next.. They are showing the history of our Federal Parks ... it truly is great. Maybe the Revolution War and the placing of various buildings showing its history is exactly where it should be - Phila. and the land remain as it is and not developed.

Anonymous said...

And Matthews says he would not be interested in the second position of Lt. Governor. Well, I would hope not. Mr. Corbett has everything needed to become Governor and does not need Matthews and his immediate family to pull him down - he has caused a lot of bad feelings in both parties. The idea of switching parties has never gone over here in this household and we are a split family when it comes to politics.
I do hope "Get Out The Vote" takes off - our young people are all ready to take over. So, Grandpop time to retire and dream of what could have been!

Anonymous said...

Yes Matthews made a statement that he is too old - he's got that right.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous 10/6 - Your statement ended "he's got that right" - I love the phrase, it is something like cop talk on TV "watsha got" .. Jay probably could use some of the above on his 10:00 Shows.

Anonymous said...

Did not know until today that we have two Commissioners called Frick and Frack! LOL

Anonymous said...

We need to start a new Blog and the rules set forth by our Commissioners on who,when & how a person can campaign for an elected or supporting an individual that is running for office if they are employeed by any government office.
We have one Commissioner running for the office of Governor. When will he resign his Commissioner Post? He can not spend any time from here on until that happens on campaign trail - remember, it was his idea regarding work & campaigning? Let's get it straight now with the rules in writing so all can see, even the two old men on the Commissioner Staff.

Anonymous said...

The new Cultural Center's will have a great show starting in the new year - "The Governors" guess who will have the staring rolls? Well, one of the Frick and Frack twosome will certainly be included. How much will the tickets cost? Careful - no Company Checks.

Anonymous said...

Glad I went back over old posts.. This is one that needs to be updated. Frick and Frack will be great on literature next year when the Governor's Race begins. Watch those letters that are mailed by which ever the twosome is running for the Governors position. They do come back to haunt you - BOO!

Anonymous said...

We now know that two of the three County Commissioners, Frick and Frack are full of hot air. They have placed our County in the "Red" and also spent the "rainy day funds" because they could with their superior attitude and wish list. Now, Corbett looks like the best man on any ticket for this spring's primary.

Anonymous said...

Got that right!

Anonymous said...

Don't Do What I Do -- Do What I Say!
Exactly what has our Commissioner that is running for Governor done for PA? When he was a Congressman, what were his accomplishments? As a Lawyer - what can he point to that was outstanding? This should be available now, before he quits his position as Commissioner.
Most of us at our Tuesday get-together feel two Commissioners would be enough. They would either agree to a project or it would be turned down and many dollars would be saved. Just think of all the perks our Commissioners receive - including $$, a staff,those wheels, and the tele that can make your life so much easier. The 8th Floor needs be occupied by another department, except for the meetings open to the public. We noticed the cut in personnel/wages - - how much is going to be cut from the Commissioners Salaries? The housing in Eagleville for weekenders - costly! We do have buildings like Sacred Heart that could be used. Even if it were sold, it would not be as costly as building an additional prison for drunks etc.
So, let's keep our Court House running with people that are well rounded in their thinking, because they have always campaigned for people that would make our County better.

Anonymous said...

Build it and they will come?? Yep! Montgomery County needs a larger holding tank for those that are tanked or other minor offenses. We have vacant buildings in Norristown and near the Courthouse - but that is too close - we have vans and county employees that love to take that ride up to Eagleville. Come on Commissioners use your heads. That area of Eagleville does not need this type of structure enlarged.

Anonymous said...

Too late, build we must no matter what the cost. The commissioners are thinking about how they will use all the vacant buildings that we now have and became vacant under their watch. Is Mr. Huffel using the building of the addition to Eagleville as a plus for the time he spent as a Commissioner? I would hope not.

Anonymous said...

Weekenders up in Eagleville would love a more comfortable room, almost like home. We worked for the locals at election time and it seems all we get is the other end of the stick when it comes to how we would like our County run and if we campaign for a certain candidate, we could be out of a job. I will do the campaigning on my own time - after all my choice for a person running for office is just as good as our Commissioners and their followers.

Anonymous said...

Montgomery County Employees will be barred from running for offfice if the new ethic reform policy is adopted...We need to have Mr. Hoeffel read March 2009's TH and all the complaints waged against his postural position on this subject. He is running for the Gov. of PA??? Interesting!

Anonymous said...

Almost one year later when Hoeffel wanted a change that would barr county employees from running for office or involved in politics at all. Here we are Mr. Hoeffel and your point was and is??? You made statements that it is your turn to prove why they were or are valid.

Anonymous said...

Really interesting article. Hope to see same more!