Silence Dogood on Berks County Politics

Sorry I have been gone so long...

2008-04-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

Due to circumstances beyond my control, namely taking care of my mother and my father's estate as well as work duties, conventions and a much needed lengthy vacation, I have not been able to post the last couple of months. I look forward to my retirement in June or July, so that I can further work on this blog and other projects that have languished the last few months.

But, I assure you I have been paying close attention to what is going on in Berks County and will be able to start posting again real soon. And boy, do we have a lot to talk about! Keep watching for new entries about the world of the Berks County political scene real soon. Until then...

Respectfully, I am...

S. Dogood

PS. While Ms Stitzman and others have been falsely accussed of being the writer, I assure you that all speculation and attempts to out my identity are dimwitted inaccuracies at best. I apologize to those, especially Ms. Stitzman and a certain young gentleman, for these stupid accusations. S.D.

Silence was on the money...

2008-02-05T00:16:00.000-08:00

This past weekend at the Democratic County Commitee meeting, which I was at, Michael Morrill announced he was not running for the 127th Legislative District against Rep. Tom Caltagirone.

While I was right on the money, I laughed at Morrill's announcement since we have known this since last month. Morrill's poll showed he could not beat my favorite Representative and showed how out of touch Morrill was with with reality. I was informed by our Union leadership that the poll showed Caltagirone was quite strong and that a majority of his constituents stood with him. They told me that Rep Caltagirone's numbers were around 95%. Talk about strength!

Morrill has plenty to answer for including where his money came from, especially since his reports thus far have failed to show where his money came from. I have from good sources in the Attorney General's office that they are continuing their investigation and Morrill may find himeslf having to pay not only a significant fine, but may actually face some charges.

While I looked forward to this election, especially since Rep Caltagirone was right on the mark in regards to Bill DeWeese. It would have been intersting to see how Morrill would have attacked knowing that there is an investigation into DeWeese's handling of Bonusgate. From an outsider I have to tell you that I believe Caltagirone's re-hiring of Chris Winters and the guidance of John Ryan as Executive Director, would hav rendered Morrill's positioning as moot and unremarkable. Mr. Winters is known throughout the political world of Berks County as a talented public relations man and political strategist, while Mr. Ryan has consistently demonstrated a brilliant legal mind and is a respected legislative guru in Harrisburg and across the Commonwealth. Throw in the talents of others legislative personnel in Harrisburg, such as the effective talents of William Andring and one quickly realizes the talent that Rep Caltagirone has at his disposal.

I know that the Rep and his staff have had a rough year, especially with the horrible death of their colleague, Sonia Medina, in August. But their tenacity and perserverance stands as testimony to the type of people Rep. Caltagirone has working for him. I know when I have called for help, the Rep's staff in the district has gone out of their way to help me.

Now, I did not see Mr. Winters this past weekend and I was disappointed because there is a lot of work to do this year. I hope he will find time to help in other areas of the County to maintain our seats under attack and even help pick up seats elsewhere. And Mr. Ryan, I hope you will assist in developing strategy to protect our incumbents like Mr. Kessler and Mr. Seip. Now I know that they will not be able to do much while working, but I certainly hope they will make themselves available for strategy calls at night and on the weekends. If they do, we will be in a strong position. Even Republicans have made respectful comments to me about the abilities of these gentleman and as a woman, they have always treated me with the utmost respect, even when we have disagreed.

Now, since Rep Caltagirone seems to be safe in the Primary, I intend on focusing my energy on electing a Democrat in the 187th and saving Rep. Seip and Rep. Kessler. Let me be honest though, Rep Kessler has not always made me happy with his positions and I know my Union is considering not supporting him for some of his positions. Also as a practicing Catholic, I am not happy with his perceived attacks on our Church and Schools. But he is one of ours, so though I do not agree with him, I will do what I can to help him.

See folks, I would rather work and elect a person I do NOT agree with on 10, 20 or even 30 percent of the time, then see someone elected who I only agree with on 10, 20 or 30 percent of the time. But alas, that is why the lunatic left like the Nefarious Blogger do not get it - they attack our own and strike at them because of the small percentages we do not agree on. As I have said time and time again, they lack civility and compromise. I would rather work with a Republican to gain a compromise then work with a lunatic left who does nothing but attack that which they can not control.

For the last 7 years we have been polarized by a divide in our country that gets wider every year, and while we all may want to point the finger at Bush: the reality is that we only need to point to the lunatic right and lunatic left in each party to understand why our Forefathers hated political parties so much. Give me the ladies and gentlemen of compromise and civility, and I guarantee our country will become more united, stronger. While we enjoy the freedom, we need to realize that our fears are overcoming us. We attack our heritage as a Christian nation and then wonder why the hate grows among us. While we are a nation founded by Christian principles, our Forefathers gave us the ability to be free from persecution for our religion; it was never envisioned that the Christian faith would be targeted from within. Instead of idolizing our parents, our family, our God, we have become fixated on ourselves, our wealth and the rich and famous. We care about the trials of Britney Spears, instead of worrying about plight of the homeless man in our backyard. How demented is that!

I hope the lunatic left will get over this attitude that it is their way or nothing or we will see our Party disintegrate into a quagmire of irrelavency. The Republican Party, under the careful guidance of Mr. Gillen, seems to be getting a grip on their divisiness; let us hope the Democrats will do the same...

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

Can you say, the Nefarious Blogger is PARANOID!?

2008-02-04T23:12:00.000-08:00

So I am reading the Nefarious Blogger, John Morgan for those unfamiliar with Dogood-imposed alias, and I see that he is on a "hunt" for a "beast". I am intrigued by his constant stupidity so I read on. Here is the brief synopsis of what is going on:

John, and his sidekick, Disreputable Boy, have been called to the carpet on their constant attacks full of inaccurate information, vicious attacks and innuendo by a person calling themselves, One Nasty Beast. John, in a perfect portrayal of why John should have NO, Zilch, NADA, credibility with anyone, decided he was going to identify One Nasty Beast by his or her GPS location!?!?

So John goes and takes picture of two building that he says are the location for One Nasty Beast. One building is in Norristown and the other one is in Clark's Summit. Here is the problem, it is neither. One of my regular readers (Thanks Iceman!) sent me proof on who One Nasty Beast is and after my jaw dropped, I was quite amused! Don't worry One Nasty Beast, your secret is safe with me!

But the reality is that John proceeded to get into a discussion with another Blogger, "Truth" on how he has a computer program to identify where a blog reader is from! John insists that he has the ability to locate a reader by their GPS coordinates?! So, "Truth", who seems quite intelligent technically-speaking, challenges John to identify the location of "Truth". Now folks I know you will not believe this but John actually answers the challenge by saying his computer has identified "Truth" as living at a home in Amity Township. Now here is the kicker folks, John identified "Truth" as living in Berks County, but the person DOES NOT EVEN LIVE HERE!!!!!!!

Hey John, the men in the black helicopters are coming for you. No, wait there are private investigators in that car outside your home! No, wait all of us are spying on you John because you are just so truthful and honest. In the meantime, your sidekick is saying that people are making veiled threats against his job. Gimme a break! You two want to take shots at people and then act like you are the victims?

While I do enjoy reading your issue posting, specifically on healthcare and working family issues, from policy people: your own paranoid mind is getting the better of you!

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

It has been a long month...

2008-02-04T22:58:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry to all of you who have pushed for my return, but I needed to take a break to help my Mother with handling affairs of my Father. You want talk about red tape!

Anyway, we were able to get all the paperwork completed and this is literally my first time where I have actually had time to look at the web and see what has been happening in our beloved Berks County. And wow, was my reading interesting!

From the crazy, factually ignorant and full of crap Nefarious Blogger and his sidekick, Disreputable Boy, to all the political intrigue in Harrisburg and locally: I think I was really glad my Mother needed my help. I could not have written fast enough to keep up with it all. But, now I am back and I look forward to writing. First off though, I thank all of you for your emails and comments wondering whether I was coming back. I had approved only one of your comments and realized I could not approve all of them or it would have taken quite awhile to go through them all.

Now, let's get started and give some lunatics a reality check!

Respectfully, I am...

S. Dogood

Email responses, II

2008-01-08T10:22:00.000-08:00

To Kirk Wentzel - from this point forward known as the Disreputable Boy - Relax. You made the choice to be gay, now live with the consequences. John is your friend and he is a boy. That would make him your "boy-friend". This is not rocket science. Actually, it is Junior High 101.

Whether you and he are engaging in sexual acts is not my concern or interest, nor do I have any interest in your relations with your paramour. I have no desire to discuss your sex life or whether you are amused, nor do I really care what you think about anything. Your position has been well established and as I have said before, per you, if we do not agree with you and your warped thinking then we are wrong. If we disagree with you and call you on your twisted thinking, then you scream that we are bigots and you yell discrimination because we "hate" gays. How sad and untrue!

Well, let me clarify something for you Kirk... I do not like your actions and words because of what you portend to stand for. The reality is that you want to attack people and expose their dirty laundry, especially when they are no longer here to defend their actions. You disrespect your own Mother with stories of her involvement with a man in an affair. What bearing does that have on anything with all the critical issues facing all of us at this time? Not a thing. Disreputable Boy, please go bury your head in the sand and do not waste our time with your diatribes.

For the record, I am not a "minion" of Mr. Caltagirone but would proudly support him in whatever way I can. His record of helping my fellow Union brother and sisters, as well as the unfortunate is widely recognized, respected and appreciated. When your record of helping others approaches the level of Mr. Caltagirone, then you have room to talk to me about why I support him. Our Union will be endorsing Mr. Caltagirone and I am sure we will be giving him money and bodies to help his efforts. We are extremely proud that he is a prime sponsor on the health care reform legislation as well as other important working family issues. You see Disreputable Boy, that is what matters, not whether one of his brothers had relations with your Mother. That was her business, not ours, nor for that matter Mr. Caltagirone's.

So, I do not expect an intelligent response, just more attacks, but I question whether your employer, Century 21, would be real thrilled about you posting while on their clock and dime. I work second shift, so I at least respond when I am on my own time. For future reference, as a woman, I take offense to your assertions that any one's personal affairs, affect their ability to lead. Some of the greatest women in history have had less then perfect personal lives but it is how they handled those challenges that determined their abilities to lead successfully. Some of the greatest women leaders of our time have had colorful histories, but they have done well by their fellow human beings.

Your tearing down of others is just a vain attempt to legitimize your poor excuse for existence and your selfish nature towards your fellow human beings. You better come back at me with more than a story about the past, especially one in that the person you want to attack has since passed away. You want to live your lifestyle, but it does not mean that the rest of us must accept it or find it morally acceptable.

For the record, my best friend is a lesbian and while I do not agree with her choice, our friendship has never been strained. She was there throughout the death of my Father last month as I was for the death of her Mother and Sister five years ago. That is called friendship and love, not bitterness and hate, which are what you espouse so well.

I will take the love and friendship, for my Savior has made it quite clear that I am to love my neighbor and my enemies. You, sir, do not know what that teaching means or implies, nor can you ever accept it because you will never be able to control it.

Please do not waste the good people of Berks County's time with anymore of your hate-filled diatribes: we are sick and tired of it all and happily most of us readily will lift a hand to help our friends, family, neighbors and even our enemies, in their time of need. If you are offended, so be it. I guess I will need to ask the Good Lord for forgiveness of my offense, but so you know, I will ask Him to forgive yours as well. All of them. God bless.

Respectfully, I am...
S.Dogood

Now this is the way to start the New Year!

2008-01-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

Since returning to work I have been slightly busy trying to catch up, but I just got a phone call that I felt was too important not to get the word out right away...

MICHAEL MORRILL HAS TOLD VARIOUS SOURCES, INCLUDING MULTIPLE ELECTED OFFICIALS, THAT HE WILL NOT RUN THIS PRIMARY AGAINST REP. CALTAGIRONE!!!!!!!

Now folks, you are going to love Mike's reasoning... "The Democratic Leaders who wanted him to run last year have come and told him not to run."

Now Mike, what leaders would that be? Mike, please name them and I will happily call them and ask if they told you not to run. If you name them and I confirm that what you say is true, I will happily post that you were being honest and publicly apologize to you.

Now here is what I think may really be happening (THAT MEANS IT IS MY OPINION, NOT FACT):

1. Supposedly our fellow Union did a poll for Mike in his bid against Rep. Caltagirone. The numbers probably came back showing the Rep. having a solid hold in his district with extremely strong positive numbers. I was told that one poll showed Rep Caltagirone with positives in the high 80 percentiles. That is impressive!

2. The Attorney General investigation into Mike's campaign finances is going forward and there is some concern about what may come from the investigation. I do understand that the Attorney General is taking all cases like this one very seriously.

Ohh Nefarious Blogger, before you comment about your "witch hunt", "investigation" - ummm, whatever you call your "research"; let me be clear on this point.) The cases are taken seriously, unless the cases are without merit because they are based on improper interpretation of the law, which the Nefarious Blogger seems to have such a penchant for these days.

3. Those of us who know Mike for his causes through the years are not exactly always enamored by the games he has played to push himself to the forefront. It is a well-known fact that other then some people in SEIU, Mike had NO support from any other Unions in his possible run. Matter of fact, at a large gathering of Union leaders and key players during the holidays, 99% of them said they were behind Rep Caltagirone and his strong record of support of the Unions over the years. Matter of fact, Bill George recently told a group of Union people when asked, that he is completely, without any reservations, behind Rep Caltagirone. My understanding is that this is pretty much across the board. I think that speaks volumes!

It does not matter, whatever the reason, Mike will portray it in whatever way helps Mike to sleep at night.

One final note to Mr. Dan Sauder...Mr. Sauder, there are a lot of other people who need your help this year. Please shake off the mud and move on. You are needed to team up with others to help BUILD the Party, NOT DESTROY IT! Let us get Democrats elected and re-elected this year. Based on comments I have seen from many within the Party, I see hands being offered in friendship and teamwork: reach out and grab them!

Respectfully, I am...
S.Dogood

Responses to email and posting, part 1

2007-12-30T23:17:00.000-08:00

To One Nasty Beast - I understand your thoughts but I am not sure I concur. Damian actually sent me an insightful posting which I did post and I have to credit him for having the courage to be an anarchist.

By the way, I do not believe you are Michelle Kircher at all. A very reliable source has tied you to some of the new liberal members of the Democrat Party who think John Morgan is out of control and are attempting to rile him up because they want him to leave because he is, in their words, a "major distraction and is not worth his wait in salt". Based on other emails sent, they supposedly have a woman's IP address but the entire group is protecting her because the nefarious blogger is so vindictive and again in their words - "out of control". They believe he and his boyfriend, Kirk Wentzel have an axe to grind and are trying to use liberal ideals to strike at anyone they can( you know the discrimination thing since they are admittedly gay) I will follow up on some leads on this story because I have received various posting about Wentzel and Morgan. BUT LET ME BE CLEAR - IF I CAN NOT VERIFY THE DETAILS WITH AN ATTORNEY, NOTHING WILL BE PUBLISHED. I will not give you teasers then attempt to give you made up facts without legal backing, unlike another blogger we all know!

TO MR. CHRISTOPHER WINTERS - I appreciate your comments and concerns. Please rest assured I have no problem making sure people know I am not YOU or anyone from Mr. Caltagirone's offices. Matter of fact, in the past, you and I have had some interesting and heated discussions. While we agree on much, I would have to disagree on your assessment of the nefarious one and his cohorts. I understand that you believe that there is room for everyone, but I do not think they feel the same. So, I have to believe you may be deluding yourself if you think you will ever be able to work with them without worrying about what knife was coming and from where.

I will agree with your comment on Mr. Sauder, and yes, I will refer to him in that way from this point forward. I did find it amusing out of all the people who have responded to my posts, you are the only one who picked up on my use of respect in my writings.

Rest assured I meant no disrespect to your family, especially your parents (your Dad and my Dad were a lot a like), your wife and your children. I am not sure how you do all you do, especially with 5 children. I hope this posting will suffice in responding to your request.

To Melissa Marie - Thank you for compliments. As you asked, I will oblige. At no time will I post anything without facts, nor will I post any accusation without making sure I have checked with a legal expert on the facts.

Yes, I thought John Morgan's story on Mr. Caltagirone reports was amusing. I spoke to an election law attorney, actually one of the best in the state, that is used by the Democratic Party routinely. His exact words were, "You have got to be kidding me. There is no violation to report or investigate. Rep Caltagirone has claimed the monies on his Committee report as an expenditure. He is not required to double list a receipt on his personal report. Let this gentleman (his words not mine) take his claim to the DOS and watch as they laugh at his accusations." Melissa, I do not think we need to say much more.

There are many more people to respond to but it is getting late and I have to catch up on other items. But, please keep the data coming. Upon verification, I will post the information.

Until them, Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

My apologies for my absence

2007-12-30T22:51:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my absence these last few weeks, however I do have a perfectly good excuse.

On December 11th, I was awakened in the middle of the night by a phone call from my Mother who lives just outside Boyertown. She was calling me from the back of an ambulance on her way to St. Joseph's Hospital with my Father. It seems that he had suffered a massive heart attack. For 10 days, I spent the better part of my days sitting in the ICU watching this mountain of a man fight for his life. Bypass surgery and other medical procedures were attempted but the damage was too severe. On December 22 at while I was at church praying: my Father died.

Many of you never knew my Father, but I wish you would have met him... Here was a man who never had a bad word to say about anyone. He went to work, did his job, took care of his family, went to Church, helped in the community and never, not once did he ever demand an award or recognition for what he did. In his words, he did what he did because it was the right thing to do! He was a God-fearing man who believed the Word of God and took His Commandments seriously.

Dad did not care much for labels. In some people's eyes my Dad would have been considered a liberal because of his strong belief in Unions and Working Families, but to many of the liberals my Dad would have been a moderate or conservative. Dad was who he was and gave to his family and the community without even thinking about it. If he was upset about a politicians decision, Dad would get on the phone and be a man and let them know what he thought. He never resorted to name calling or character assassination. He took it to the person and intelligently debated the issue.

I will miss my Dad, but he will never be gone from my heart. I cherish all he has given me. I hope that I will always muster up to what he expected of me. Dad, I know you are looking down from Heaven and I just wanted you to know I love you. I will be forever grateful for your wisdom and strength, but most of all your love.

Your precious child,
S. Dogood

FANS - So today, I apologize for being gone so long and I have a lot of emails to answer so give me a few days to catch up and I will try to respond to everyone. I look forward to writing more in 2008. If there are things I may have missed the last few weeks, please let me know. S.D.

A Response to DC93, AKA Damian Carabello

2007-12-10T10:46:00.000-08:00

Damian,

As has been said over and over again by many throughout history, "I think I have touched a nerve!"

Damian, since you yourself are taking money from the public trough (yes RACC is financed by public dollars), I was only commenting on your lack of decorum, civility, or even understanding of the word, compromise.I have posted your comments in their entirety, unlike your good friend, the nefarious blogger, John Morgan. (Folks, please check Damian's rant on my entry "the truth will set you free 2". They were posted in entirety as I said I would.)

I shudder to see you even mention the Reverend John Morgan, considering that gentleman has more class and charisma in his pinky finger than you have in your whole body. He is a man of God and Christianity: you, well, let the blog readers determine what exactly you are, but your diatribe is more than enough to show them exactly what you are...

As far as my identity, Damian, you and your allies have decided that your way of life and thought process must be accepted by all of us or we become targets for your vitriol. Damian, please get a grant and study human nature and maybe you will learn something about yourself. It is really simple Damian: if I have to live in a country that is full of your rantings/ravings and hatred, then I'd rather fight back with the weapons you have chosen to use and do everything I must to fight your personal vendetta against the Democrat Party and its leaders, and moderate Democrats like me.

Yes, Damian, I believe we need to hold our Leaders accountable, but by whose standards? Yours? I'd rather hang by my neck with my liberal, moderate and conservative Democratic allies.

Damian, answer these questions. Where is your outrage and your bitterness towards the Harrisburg leadership that is under investigation, exactly as Mr. Caltagirone had explained at his appearance at the Democratic Party meeting in February? DeWeese is in trouble and when he is indicted, will you write on all the blogs admitting that Mr. Caltagirone was correct?

No, you won't because that does not fit your plans, Damian!

My identity, it is quite humorous really, for I am not hiding behind anonymity because of people like you, but more to protect those who give me the information so I can offset the hatred you and John and Morrill spew across the internet. Please do not threaten me with a lawsuit. I have not spoken anything out of school. I have kept copies of your multitudes of postings across the internet and can stand behind what I say with your own words.

Damian, what is scary is that your warped and peculiar position is part of the educational staff at RACC, where young men and women are being trained for a better future. For the record, I pray and hope for a better future for all of the students enrolled at RACC.

Just as long as it is not by your design...

Respectfully, I am...
S.Dogood

2008 is upon us...Part 1, The Senator Mike O'Pake

2007-12-04T13:57:00.001-08:00

In a few short weeks, 2007 will be pass and the new year will be heralded into our lives. But, of course the big news is we will see a whole new round of elections. Now, being the educated populace that comprises Berks County politics, let us take a look at what may be on the horizon for next year's election cycle. While of course I care about who is President, the focus of my efforts are on the local front.

So today, let us start with Berks County's own, Mike O'Pake. The Senator can be a peculiar man but he works hard for the people of Berks County. You may not always like his tactics or even how he speaks to people or his demeanor, but you know he will fight like hell for the people of Berks County.

Now, the latest rumor is that the Republicans led by Mr. Mark Gillen, have a possible candidate to run against the Senator. Now, knowing Mr. Gillen, you can not take this gentleman lightly. Mr. Gillen will attempt to locate a candidate who can offset the Senator's reputation, specifically with Senior Citizens. I understand that they are trying to locate someone who either has their own funding stream or knows how to get it. While Mr. Gillen would not hesitate to look for a woman, I would not be surprised if we see a business person who has built a reputation of their own, within the business and financial circles in Berks County and can access the money in those circles. I would figure that Mr. Gillen would probably concentrate in the moderate circles, knowing that a far-right conservative can not beat the Senator. But if they do not find someone to fit that mold, expect another lightweight opponent in the fall.

The Senator should not have opposition within the Primary, but with the nefarious blogger not being a fan of the Senator, nor for that matter is his misguided associate from Kenhorst/RACC by way of Kutztown University, who knows what the wacko liberal left will do. (By the way, for the record, I have much respect for many liberals, especially people such as Fred Schaeff, Darlington Hoopes and Lynn Millar. I may not always agree with them, but they have earned my respect.)

Throw in the fact that the slippery councilman from West Reading is attempting to be a "green-democrat" party BOSS, we can not be sure that the good Senator would escape the Primary unscathed. But remember my fellow Berks Countians, these guys are the "real" democrats and really care about our Party and our values.

The Senator is a perfect example of a legislator who knows what it means to compromise and show a little civility toward people. The blogger and his cohorts would only respond with attacks, innuendo about the Senator and resort to their normal name-calling routine. However my friends, all you need to do is go back through the Senator's record and see what the Senator has done for Berks County. His record of accomplishments and support for our community and from our community is widespread, but I guess his conservative values penalize him and make him a "poor" Democrat, as far as the Morgan-Carabello-Morrill crowd (from now on known as the "lunatic left-fringe"), is concerned.

Well Senator, from one of your fellow Democrats who does agree with your civility, professionalism, and your willingness to compromise to do what is right for Berks County, I offer you this thought: stand strong and true to the Berks County people, as you have for these many years! We will not abandon you.

Senator, the Moderate Democrats, most Liberal Democrats and of course, the Catholic Democrats who are so maligned by the Morgan-Carabello-Morrill crew, are in your corner. But I believe Senator O'Pake, you need to send a message and I will help you yell it for all of Berks County to hear...

Tell the "lunatic left-fringe" they do not represent the value of most Berks Countians. Tell them these very simple, but elegant to-the-point words of direction...

Go to Hell!

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

Is there anything John Morgan does not attack?

2007-11-27T00:39:00.000-08:00

John Morgan, what a hypocrite in action. Here is a man who attacks the Catholic Church, the Boy Scouts of America , etc because their “policies” do not meet the needs of John or his views of what is right or wrong. But John, then why do I have to accept your way of life? John, this is my Country as well and you and your friends are not the only Democrats.

John, your constant attacks on party officials, incumbents and normal, run-of-the-mill Democrats will no longer be tolerated without some sort of retort by people like me. For a long time you have had free ride to say whatever that twisted mind of yours could come up with. Your actions are hurting the Democrat Party, attacking innocent people, misrepresenting facts and downright spreading lies. I will work non-stop to expose your misrepresentations.

A perfect example of your behavior is how you carefully tiptoed around the issue regarding Rep Bill DeWeese. Thankfully the media coverage has covered what you have conveniently avoided: especially details that are exposing the dealings of Bill DeWeese and his senior staff. You have avoided having to admit that Tom Caltagirone was right about DeWeese in January. But see, that is easy to understand, it does not serve your purpose, John. Your loyalty is to a man who could not even get close to winning as a third-party candidate and used a technical loophole to sneak on the ballot and slide into office as a West Reading councilman. Now Mike Morrill is facing a serious review of not only his failures to file a committee and reports properly, but the word in Harrisburg circles is that this case has attracted the attention of some questionable reports from Morrill’s run for Governor.

Come on John, where is your entry on that story? Instead you bring up ridiculous charges that were reviewed by people well-versed in Election Finance law and found your characterizations to be erroneous and another perfect example of you twisting information to suit your purpose.

You attack our military forces when in reality they are not responsible for the war. You think it is funny to attack the military when John, I am sure you have never served a day in uniform. I know many veterans and trust me I certainly do not want you to speak for any of those veterans. They deserve a real spokesperson who actually has worn a uniform. You wouldn't know sacrifice if it bit you in your behind.

John, you are a weak man and better come after people with more then rumor, lies and innuendos. Berks County is running out of patience with your shenanigans and I certainly am going to expose your nonsense. So, you keep being your negative, malicious self and I will happily be here ready to expose your lies, involvement with others that have axes to grind, and most of all your unwillingness to see anyone else opinions over your own.

I will expose your hatred of the Catholic Church, Boy Scouts, and any other organization that does not meet your standards (including forwarding your opinions to leaders of those organizations and others). See John, I am sure that your lawyer told you that while you are entitled to your opinion, when you publish it in a public format it becomes available to all. The funny thing about your standards, John, it is about your preferences. But you see this great Country we live in was founded by men who were a lot smarter then you ever will be. They understood that the US Constitution was a living, breathing document and was designed to protect the masses from the lunatic fringe, like you, who believe their ways or sexual preferences should determine matters for all. John, you are wrong and there are many Berks Countians who are sick of hearing your constant diatribes.

You see John, it is this simple…your 15 minutes are up!

Respectfully, I am…
S. Dogood

Thank you and I am back from holiday...

2007-11-27T00:34:00.000-08:00

To my Honorable fellow Berks Countians,

Okay, when I decided to start writing this blog I really anticipated that I would appeal to a select group of people involved in the political spectrum of Berks County. However the response to my blog entries has been overwhelming. I went away for a few days and came back to find emails from a variety of people from all walks of life either asking what I was going to cover next or giving me ideas what to blog about next. I thank you for making me feel so welcomed. I promise you more interesting blogs are coming.

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

Another example of "the truth will set you free"

2007-11-21T05:36:00.000-08:00

Damian Carabello, who regularly posts as dc93 on the blogs written by the nefarious character, John Morgan, as well as the Reading Eagle blog, once again does not have all his facts straight. It seems that they again decided to write blog entries before they know the truth.

In yesterday's PA House Judiciary Committee meeting, Chairman Tom Caltagirone took a courageous stand for his constituents. Knowing that he would take a hit from the NRA, Tom Caltagirone had the intestinal fortitude to vote in support of two house bills that the NRA had launched a full-force blitz against in the days prior to the meeting. Another bill was tabled to protect it from defeat so that amendments could be brought forward to possibly garner the necessary votes from Western PA Democrats and Eastern PA Republicans in the future.

See, that is called compromise and leadership, something that Damian and John do not understand. While I personally do not agree with Mr. Caltagirone on these bills, he once again earned my respect. Leadership can be a lonely business, but Mr. Caltagirone showed once again why he will lead in any situation when necessary.

To Mr. Caltagirone's critics, such as Damian and John, your attacks are undignified and irresponsible. Matter of fact, your recent attacks should warrant a lawsuit from Mr. Caltagirone. I also believe it is necessary to include Kirk Wentzel, who I understand works for a local major realty company and routinely posts on John's blog with less than diginified posts. See, these gentlemen want to attack others for what they (John, Damian and Kirk) think people are doing wrong but yet they are above approach for their childish attacks. They call people names, they put out erroneous facts, or they take cheap shots, but yet they want to cry when they are put to the coals by people who are outraged by their behavior.

The latest attack was a disgusting post full of inaccuracies. It was a complete show of disrespect to a woman killed by her husband in an act of rage. Most politically astute people knew Sonia Medina, and the characterization of her relationship with Mr. Caltagirone was maligned by John in his blog.

Mrs. Medina and Mr. Caltagirone were close friends, with Mr. Caltagirone being the Godfather to her children and Best Man at their wedding. Now, does that sound like a relationship based on fear, or a relationship based on respect? Please get your facts straight before you decide you want to make such a false and libelous statement.

Respectable people do not enjoin debate by using personal attacks, they discuss issues with respect and civility towards their opponent. To those that want to discuss issues, and debate those issues, with Mr. Caltagirone and people such as myself; your intelligent debate is welcomed and respected.

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

The Dogood Award of the Week

2007-11-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Once a week I intend on profiling a man or woman, who to me have demonstrated what I believe is a commitment to the ideals of civility, community responsibility, cooperative spirit and courage. So I launch the Dogood Award. There are a lot of people I was thinking of for my first choice, but I kept coming down to one individual, Mel Fishburn, President of the Berks County Building Trades Council.

Here is a man who consistently goes out of his way to help his union brethren, the community at large, political leaders and our communities. I understand from various sources outside the political world that Mel and the Trades are always available to assist no matter what the call. Mel has quietly demonstrated his resolve on various issues affecting the Trades by working hard to address issues pertaining to the building trades unions. He is effective in reaching out to local, state and federal political leaders to express the support for or opposition to legislation that would affect his members. Mel, and the men and women that comprise the trades, are recognized by both sides of the aisle for being effective, organized and efficient. Make no bones about it, under Mel's guidance; the trades have become a formidable tool in the political landscape of Berks County.

But with all that being said, Mel Fishburn is a quiet man who goes about his business and does not seek recognition for what he or his organization has done. In many discussions with Republican and Democrats alike, most refer to him being the individual that they know they can call on and he will give them a straight answer, whether it what they want to hear the answer or not. He is not cocky or rude, but yet his support and the support of the Trades is of utmost importance to the political players of Berks County.

Mel Fishburn is the type of Union leader we need to be a voice for the Working Families of Berks County. If you meet Mel, you will quickly realize that you are dealing with a very professional man with a great deal of intelligence, strength, conviction, charisma and wit. His Union members recognize him as honest and forthwith and know that with him in their corner, they have someone who will fight for them until the end. It is a perfect example of either working together or we will fail on our own.

The Trades clear and broad support, without any reservation, for the Democrats who have been elected to serve our County, such as Jim Bucci, Judy Schwank, Denny Hess and Kevin Barnhardt, demonstrates the level they are willing to go for the candidates they support. You can also clearly see their support of state and federal political leaders as well, by the strong support and endorsements they have given Tom Caltagirone, Dante Santoni and Tim Holden.

For all those reasons, I am honored and privileged to award my first weekly Dogood Award to Mel Fishburn, President of the Berks County Building Trades Council. Mel, please keep up the great work for our Community.

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood

To error is human, to forgive is divine...

2007-11-19T06:05:00.000-08:00

Well, even I, Silence Dogood, make rush to judgements that may or may not be warranted. It seems that I offended Mr. Daniel Sauder, in comments left on http://www.kurtspeak.blogspot.com/. Mr. Sauder has responded to me wondering why I referred to him in less than cordial fashion on a blog written by Kurt Bellman, former Elections Director of Berks County.

I have only met Mr. Sauder on a few occasions and while his dedication to get Democrats elected in admirable: the way and people he has associated with are not. I will not impugn Mr. Sauder, but I do direct my comments to what I have seen of his actions and his associations. Mr. Sauder seems to be a decent man with a lot of drive in his belly and that is to be commended. If we had more people with his spirit, the Democrats would have had some real victories in this past election.

Mr. Sauder works as a paralegal, so I have been told, for Merv Heller's law firm, which is one of the most conservative law firms in Berks County. Mr. Sauder has been involved in a couple of campaigns since arriving on the scene, but I will give you an example of how this man has been warped by those he associates within the Party structure. Mr. Sauder is a liberal Democrat and there is nothing wrong with that, unless he lets others lead him to a point where he becomes irrelevant.

Mr. Sauder, with his energy, should concentrate on electing Democrats to office whether they are liberal or moderate, but unfortunately due to his closeness to Mike Morrill, John Morgan and others, he is quickly becoming known as their "go-to-boy" to do their bidding. Here is what I recommend to Mr. Sauder: start thinking for your self and put that energy in building the Party and our candidates, versus looking at ways to tear it apart. Just because I do not agree with you on every issue does not make you wrong and me right, or vice versa. We may not agree 100% on every issue, but we certainly do agree on more issues then our Republican colleagues. Stop complaining about Tom Caltagirone, as we have seen in the last few weeks, he was right about Bill DeWeese. And for God's sake, the Democrats do own the majority!

Your attitude, which is surprising considering who you work for professionally, has damaged your credibility with those of us who would be more than willing to work with you for the good of our Party. We need new blood, but not at the cost of civility, teamwork and striving towards our goal, which is electing Democrats over Republicans. And Mr. Sauder, please learn that just because Democrats "work" with Republicans and vice versa, does not mean that they are placating or being subservient: it may just be that they are working together to accomplish a goal that may be better then nothing at all!

With that said Mr. Sauder, I would work with you if you learned some key concepts, like teamwork and civility. Go and speak to Bill Evans or Tim Smith or Darlington Hoopes or Leroy Gensemer and learn from them! They were fighting for the Democratic Party for along time and while you may not agree with them on the issues, you will find that you can not help but respect their abilities and devotion to our Party. Mr. Sauder, I will apologize for using a derogatory term to describe you, for that makes me no better than the behavior of another blogger.

However, I stand firm on my analysis of your behavior since arriving in our Party. While I will credit you for helping Fred Sheeler win his campaign (with $40,000 of his own money), I know of a young man in our Party who has consistently won campaigns for the Democratic Party, while working to build the Party and not focusing on the political leanings. While he has exacerbated some because of his blunt words and demeanor, this man has won campaigns. And at times, it may have been candidates that he would have rather not worked for, but did so for the good of our Party. I also have seen him take campaigns, knowing they could not be won and worked them as if they were salvageable victories and won. In the end, he knew it was about the Party and keeping people organized and spirited.

Mr. Sauder, the people you have been associating with, are about tearing things apart and attempting to look like a knight on a white horse coming to save our Party. It is called political opportunism. I can not help but illustrate this point by pointing out your "managing" of Mike Morrill's campaign against Rep. Caltagirone. I offer that Mr. Sauder, if you called and met with Rep. Caltagirone or Bill Evans or even, Tim Smith: you would find that they would be willing to have you involved and work with you quite freely. But, alas, I have a feeling my words will fall on deaf ears and you will continue to be a part of the destruction of our Party by a few, instead of a building of our Party by a majority.

And, it is a quite simple behavioral attitude you have, that as a younger man you believe you can make a name for yourself by attacking the perceived "old guard" instead of working with them. Many have made that mistake and I respectfully ask that you reach out to one of the gentlemen above. People like you, Mr. Sauder, and want to work with you: you need to make the calls. You may be surprised at the response you receive.

I can only hope to be in error, but only time will tell. I hope the gentleman will replace the revolutionary, for while this Country was found on the winds of revolution, it has survived by civility and compromise which you have demonstrated little respect for, or knowledge of, in your actions to this point in time.

Respectfully, I am...

S. Dogood

Judy, love her or hate her... she will be missed!

2007-11-16T10:18:00.001-08:00

Every once in a while you come across a politician who absolutely makes you believe that their real interests is in the people they have been elected to represent. Judy Schwank is one of those people. But lately a sleazy blogger has attacked her and her record of service to our community. I have emailed Judy and asked her to give us a farewell message before she leaves and sort of respond to this attack. I hope that she will oblige my request. I have been a loyal supporter of hers since she came on the scene and I hope she will do us this one last request.

When she came on the scene she was one of those people you just knew where she was coming from and what she was all about. Coming from the agricultural background, Judy understood the needs of creating jobs while maintaining our agricultural heritage. The labor movement welcomed her with open arms and she enjoyed a warm relationship with them during her time as our Commissioner. She consistently was on the forefront of fighting to help rebuild the City of Reading but she did not forget the small borough and townships that make Berks County so great. When it came to working families and seniors, you could trust Judy to make the right decision. When legislators in Harrisburg or Washington needed a push on issues to help the lower and middle class, Judy fought hard and did not back down.

When Judy came upon a tough vote, knowing that she would face the music from people not thrilled with her decision, she had the courage to stand and take the fire. Her message was simple - treat people with respect, hear their thoughts and at all times, exhibit a level of professionalism.

In our Party, despite the asinine assertions of some off- the-wall blogger, Judy was warmly received and respected by all factions, liberal or moderate. She helped elect Democrats, moderate or liberal, it did not matter: she was there. She knew the art of compromise, but yet she could stand firm when she felt her decision was in the best interests of the people of Berks County. If you look at her record of service there are many highlights that could be listed, but I think the election results speak for themselves. The people of Berks County, across Party lines and Demographics, believed in her and voted for her, easily making her the highest vote getter in General and Primary!

So, let's look at the attack on her record.

"Judy is responsible for losing the majority." Wrong. The only person who is responsible for that is the outgoing Commissioner, Mr. Gajewski.

When your ego is so driven that your friends become your enemies, your days are numbered. People who had supported Gajewski in his first successful run for Commissioner, were taken back by his constant attacks on anyone who did not "kiss the hand of the Emperor". History is full of elected leaders who consistently forgot where they came from and who put them there and we know form the history books what happen to them.

Now that he has lost, Gajewski and his blogging cohort need to place blame on anyone other then Gajewski himself. Gajewski routinely, as evidenced by the letters uploaded to another Pennsylvania blog, chastised people for conspiring against him. He was even sent a letter from the Reading Eagle stating that they would no longer tolerate his abusiveness towards their writers. That is what cost Gajewski his race - his ego and paranoia - not Judy Schwank!

I believe Judy Schwank would have continued serving Berks County, but the thought of four more years with Tom Gajewski was enough to give the 10,000 Friends opportunity another look. If Kevin Barnhardt, who I will cover in a later story, was your candidate after the Primary instead of Gajewski, the Demoracts maintain the majority. It was that simple.

The nefarious blogger who attacks her record and blames her for the loss of the majority does not see the proverbial forest through the trees. Gajewski's behavior and lack of professionalism, combined with working with the likes of the blogger, is what cost Mr. Gajewski his election.

But, alas, I have digressed from my original intent to showcase the class and courage of our Commissioner, Judy Schwank. Whether you loved her or hated her, Judy was respected and that, despite the pitiful attempts to derail her legacy by the supposedly-disabled blogger, will always remain as a testimony of her love for Berks County. We all will miss her infectious attitude of "let's get it done", but we wish her well in her new endeavors.

Respectfully, I am...

S. Dogood

Why a new blog on Berks County Politics?

2007-11-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

After having enough misinformation being spread by a sleazy blog, I felt it was necessary to express opinion on Berks County politics from a moderate Democrat point of view. This blog will give the internet savy Berks Countians the opportunity to hear from a Democrat who believes in support of our Working Families and Labor Unions, our Seniors, our Children and our Military, while a strong conservative belief in God, Country and Family.

I will not add to outlandish rumours and innuendos: let the far-left bloggers play that game. Instead, this blog will be an avenue for anyone to refute the lies, expose the truths and bring real substantiated facts forward for public discussion. That is right, I will not allow unsubstantiated attacks or innuendo go unanswered. If you are attacked on another Berks County blog, my blog is your opportunity to have your voice heard without responding through your attacker. I will give you the freedom to respond directly to those who attack you. I will not allow the known bloggers in this county to post on this site. They have their own forum - this is yours!

I believe that there is a level of compromise and civility in politics. In Berks County, thanks to a few lunatics, we forgot the art of compromise and working together for the common good of all Berks Countians. It takes courage to stand up in the face of such ugly attacks that have been prevalent on so many other blogs in Berks County. This blog will do just that: stand up and refute these heinous attacks.

This will be about the political world in Berks County and what is happening within that community. It will show who is about working together and who is only out for their own self-interests.It will expose the extremes on both sides of the aisle and verociously attack those who believe that their way is the only way.

Now, since they have decided to use the internet without any respect for peoples' lives and families, this blog will be the opportunity to use their own weapon against them. They started the fight, I am just leveling the playing field. Let them attack me, I am sure they will...

Respectfully, I am...
S. Dogood