Congressman addresses Lincoln Day dinner

From left, Carolyn Paccio, Congressman Tom Marino, Donna Coleman and Dave Darrow at the recent Lincoln Day Dinner.

BY HELEN B. FOSTER

Correspondent

Congressman Tom Marino and State Rep. Sandra Major told those attending the Susquehanna County annual Lincoln Day dinner on Saturday, Feb. 26, both the commonwealth and the federal government have been living beyond their means.

Major said residents have had to make personal cuts and government will be doing the same.

She acknowledged that the  state house and senate need to leave fiscal insanity behind once and for all.

Major was recognized  as being singled out for the chairmanship of the Republican Caucus.

Marino had similar words for those gathered.

“We are doing what you sent us to Washington to do, cut the budget,” he said, thanking the voters of Susquehanna County for having confidence in him and wished all the candidates good luck in the upcoming elections.

County GOP Chairman John Kameen  was master of ceremonies for the event that nomally draws a large crowd and this year was no exception..

VFW chaplain Jim Soller gave the invocation with State Committeeperson Dianne Burman leading the pledge to the flag and the singing of the national anthem.

State Sen. Lisa Baker said she was there to add her support for  honoring those who have sent the message of good and responsible government, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan.

Kameen introduced those from Wyoming, Lackawanna and Bradford Counties. Wyoming County’s former chairman and a long time friend of Susquehanna County was recognized and honored for her birthday.

County commissioner Michael Giangrieco was the first in a long list of incumbent candidates speaking at the event held at the Great Bend VFW. “We have taken politics out of the county and we make sound decision,” Giangrieco said.

Other incumbents given the opportunity to address the dinner were: District Attorney Jason Legg; Treasurer Cathy Benedict; Register/Recorder Mary Evans; Coroner Tony Conarton; Auditor Holly Bialy; Auditor George Starzec.

Candidates for the two Republican commissioner positions on the November ballot, besides Giangrieco, are Alan Hall, Ricky Oakley and Fred Baker. At the conclusion of the program Dave Yulke announced he was giving consideration to entering the commissioner’s race. He said he would make a decision shortly.

With the retirement of Magisterial District Judge Peter Janicelli (New Milford), three candidates are vieing for this position: Raymond Telnock, Kathy Ragard and Atty. Jodi Cordner.

Incumbent Justice Jeffrey Hollister is the only announced candidate for the Montrose District seat.

Anne Covey a candidate for Commonwealth Court spoke on her own behalf as well as Vic Stable, a candidate for Superior Court.

Edna Paskoff a member of the Susquehanna County Tea Party said it is necessary to stay informed, call the officials and write a Letter to the Editor. “Show your support for those showing fortitude,” she said.

Dinner Chairperson Carolyn Paccio, assisted by Lori Conarton awarded the door prizes