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Delaware Valley Journal Covering Philadelphia, Delaware, Bucks, Montgomery, and Chester Counties, and the commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Dad, Daughter Talk About Their Roles in New Documentary ‘Bucks County, U.S.A.’"A new documentary series will give viewer...
14/02/2025

Dad, Daughter Talk About Their Roles in New Documentary ‘Bucks County, U.S.A.’

"A new documentary series will give viewers a chance to peek behind the curtains of the epicenter of some of the nation’s fiercest political wars: Bucks County.

"The first two episodes of “Bucks County, USA” by Barry Levinson and Robert May recently debuted at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.

"Levinson is the Academy Award-winning director best known for 'Rain Man,' 'The Natural,' and 'Good Morning, Vietnam.'

"Doylestown Township residents Paul Martino and his daughter Vanessa, 15, are two of the documentary’s subjects. They spoke to DVJournal about their experiences.

"Asked how she got involved in the documentary, Vanessa said 'Mr. May, the producer, was interviewing my friend, Evi. And Evi told him about me.' ..."

"The Martinos are Republicans, while Vanessa’s best friend Evi Casey, and her family, are Democrats. Vanessa and Evi, who remain friends despite their political differences, are reoccurring narrators, though much of the action centers on the adults, Martino said. ...

"The two teenagers, now sophomores, met at a party the summer before seventh grade and became friends. Asked if their political differences interfered with their friendship, Vanessa said no.

“'We’ve always been friends, and like no matter that we think differently about politics, we’re always going to remain friends,' said Vanessa. 'It’s a stupid thing to be divided over.' ..."

A new documentary series will give viewers a chance to peek behind the curtains of the epicenter of some of the nation’s fiercest political wars: Bucks

GIORDANO: Despite Democratic Detractors, Trump’s Honeymoon Continues by Dom Giordano."Last week, CNN pundit Scott Jennin...
14/02/2025

GIORDANO: Despite Democratic Detractors, Trump’s Honeymoon Continues by Dom Giordano.

"Last week, CNN pundit Scott Jennings made a great point about why President Donald Trump seems to be overwhelming Democrats in so many ways. Jennings stated that Trump’s superpower is doing things that 80 percent of Americans support versus stuff that 20 percent support. Jennings added that Trump Derangement Syndrome forces Democrats to flail against Trump’s actions even if their flailing damages them.

"Last week, Trump masterfully stepped in and blocked biological men from participating in women’s sports through an executive order. The picture of Trump at the White House surrounded by hundreds of young female athletes was iconic. Trump’s order was not only supported by 80 percent of the American people, but it also got the attention of those who may not follow politics closely but will vote against the political party that promotes men competing against women in female sports.

"This week, Trump has signaled that he will sign an executive order rescinding the federal ban on plastic straws. This attack on plastic straws was triggered in 2011 by then 9-year Milo Cress, who called straw companies to determine how many plastic straws Americans use each day. He estimated from the conversations that Americans used 500 million straws a day. Then, it was extrapolated that that number would fill up 46,400 large school buses a year. These numbers are largely disputed, but what is overwhelmingly undisputable is that Americans want to use plastic rather than paper straws. Trump is just going to fulfill that desire. ..."

Last week, CNN pundit Scott Jennings made a great point about why President Donald Trump seems to be overwhelming Democrats in so many ways. Jennings

Delco DA Stollsteimer: I Won’t Help Enforce Immigration Law on ‘Peaceful’ Illegal Aliens"Delaware County District Attorn...
13/02/2025

Delco DA Stollsteimer: I Won’t Help Enforce Immigration Law on ‘Peaceful’ Illegal Aliens

"Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer portrays himself as a law-and-order Democrat. But there are some laws — America’s laws against illegal immigration, for example — he refuses to enforce.

“'I am directing that CID (Criminal Investigation Division) staff are not to work with immigration officials to target for enforcement actions individuals not legally in our country but also not committing criminal acts,' Stollsteimer posted in a message on Facebook. 'Simply put, we will not participate in ’round ups’ of people living peacefully in Delaware County.'

"The two-term D.A. insists his office will help Immigration and Customs Enforcement with cases involving people who are breaking U.S. immigration law, as long as they are charged with an additional crime as well.

“'We will continue to work collaboratively with our federal partners to investigate and hold criminals accountable, and if those criminals are not legally in this country, we will without hesitation cooperate with immigration officials who seek their legal removal from the United States,' Stollsteimer wrote.

"Stollsteimer implied that enforcing immigration law was somehow suspect and that immigration status is related to people’s race or religion.

“'As prosecutors and investigators, we advocate for all victims of crime in Delaware County, irrespective of what those victims look like, who they love, who they pray to, or their legal status in our country,' Stollsteimer wrote. 'My policy…without exception, is that we are not to inquire about a victim or witness’ legal status in the United States, nor will we report to immigration officials a victim or witness who we learn is not a legal resident.'

"Stollsteimer’s position is viewed as problematic by many legal experts. It also runs counter to national polling showing widespread support for more enforcement of immigration laws.

“'Stollsteimer’s announcement is self-serving. He is setting up ICE as a straw man, the villain, in order to try to make himself look like a hero,' said Jessica Vaughan with the Center for Immigration Studies. ..."

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer portrays himself as a law-and-order Democrat. But there are some laws -- America’s laws against

DeANGELIS: President Trump Unleashes Education Freedom by Corey A. DeAngelis."President Trump signed an executive order ...
13/02/2025

DeANGELIS: President Trump Unleashes Education Freedom by Corey A. DeAngelis.

"President Trump signed an executive order last Wednesday that puts wind at the sails of the school choice movement.

"The executive order directs the Department of Education to prioritize discretionary federal grants for school choice and to issue guidance on allocating funding for elementary and secondary school scholarships.

"The order also directs Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to examine how military families could use federal funding to select the school that best meets their child’s needs. The interior secretary is also directed to submit a plan to Mr. Trump on how families with children in Bureau of Indian Education schools could use federal funding to attend the school of their choice.

"The timing could not be better: the National Assessment of Educational Progress – commonly known as the 'nation’s report card' – scores were also released last Wednesday. Reading scores dropped by 5 points for both 4th and 8th-grade students from 2019 to 2024. Math scores declined 3 points for 4th graders and 8 points for 8th graders over the same period.

"These disappointing results come as the public school system has largely drained the $190 billion it received in federal emergency funding beginning in 2020. ..."

President Trump signed an executive order last Wednesday that puts wind at the sails of the school choice movement. The executive order directs the

PA Pols Express Gratitude for Fogel’s Release"Pennsylvania is celebrating the release of Pittsburgh-area teacher Marc Fo...
13/02/2025

PA Pols Express Gratitude for Fogel’s Release

"Pennsylvania is celebrating the release of Pittsburgh-area teacher Marc Fogel, who was wrongfully detained in a Russian prison for three years.

"Russian authorities arrested Fogel and sentenced him to 14 years for possessing a small amount of medical ma*****na to cope with pain from a severe back injury.

"One of those celebrating is fellow western Pennsylvanian, U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), who met Fogel’s 95-year-old mother while campaigning and continued to advocate for Fogel’s release.

“'I am thrilled that Marc Fogel is finally coming home after years of being wrongfully held in Russia,' McCormick said. 'I have been working on this since meeting Marc’s mother at the (Donald Trump campaign) Butler rally in July, and I’m grateful to President Trump and Secretary Rubio for delivering on their commitment to free Marc. As I told Marc’s mom, Mafa, when we first met, we would do everything possible to get Marc home. It is a blessing that this day has finally come.'

"McCormick pressed Fogel’s case in public hearings and private meetings with administration officials. During his second week as a senator, McCormick met with then-secretary of state nominee Marco Rubio to discuss Fogel’s case. He raised it again during Rubio’s public confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. It was McCormick’s first question at a hearing after arriving in the Senate, and Rubio committed to securing Fogel’s freedom.

"McCormick also spoke with Special Envoys Steve Witkoff, Adam Boehler, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz to discuss Fogel’s case and advocate for his release.

"And McCormick released a bipartisan, bicameral letter with Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) urging Rubio to 'unlock all of the tools at the U.S. Government’s disposal to advocate for Marc’s release.' ..."

Pennsylvania is celebrating the release of Pittsburgh-area teacher Marc Fogel, who was wrongfully detained in a Russian prison for three years. Russian

PODCAST: Sen. Kim Ward Talks Budget, Battling Shapiro"State Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) spills the tea on Gov. Josh S...
12/02/2025

PODCAST: Sen. Kim Ward Talks Budget, Battling Shapiro

"State Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) spills the tea on Gov. Josh Shapiro and the upcoming budget fight in this edition of the Delaware Valley Journal podcast. The first female president pro tempore of the Pennsylvania Senate, Ward shares with DVJ’s Linda Stein what former Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf did that Shapiro doesn’t.

"And how many staffers does Shapiro have, exactly?

"Plus, Ward talks about the GOP’s priorities on education and protecting taxpayers. ..."

State Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) spills the tea on Gov. Josh Shapiro and the upcoming budget fight in this edition of the Delaware Valley Journal

EHRHART: Thank God for the Eagles Victory by W. D. Ehrhart."I really enjoyed Super Bowl LIX. What a game! The Birds made...
12/02/2025

EHRHART: Thank God for the Eagles Victory by W. D. Ehrhart.

"I really enjoyed Super Bowl LIX. What a game! The Birds made the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs look like a bunch of Pop Warner League amateurs. Spectacular catches by A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jahan Dotson, and even Saquon Barkley.

"The Philadelphia defense was simply awesome with six sacks of Patrick Mahomes, a fumble recovery, and two interceptions including a pick-six by phenomenal rookie Cooper DeJean. Even Jake Elliott was back to his usual self, missing nary a field goal or point-after.

"But within moments of the game’s conclusion, coach Nick Sirianni proclaimed, 'God’s blessed us very much. He gave us all the talents to be able to get here. So first and foremost, thanks to Him,' adding later, 'Thank you, God, thank you, Jesus.' That kind of took some of the shine off the victory.

"Now before you get all riled up and accuse me of being some godless communist or diabolical spokesman for Beelzebub, let me explain.

"If Sirianni is right, does this mean that God is a Philadelphia Eagles fan who made sure the Birds had enough talent to defeat the Chiefs? What about the other 30 teams who didn’t even make it to the Super Bowl? Did God make sure those teams’ players didn’t have what it takes? Did the members of those teams not pray hard enough or believe strongly enough in God’s benevolent grace? ..."

I really enjoyed Super Bowl LIX. What a game! The Birds made the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs look like a bunch of Pop Warner League

Ward Blasts Shapiro’s Big-Spending Budget, Mocks His Social-Media Entourage"Gov. Josh Shapiro portrays himself as a gove...
12/02/2025

Ward Blasts Shapiro’s Big-Spending Budget, Mocks His Social-Media Entourage

"Gov. Josh Shapiro portrays himself as a governor who gets stuff done.

"Republican Senate Pro Tempore Kim Ward disagrees.

“'I would say that he is much more of a political animal than he is actually a ‘get-stuff-done’ governor,' the Westmoreland County Republican told DVJournal during a podcast interview.

“'He has 26 people, I understand from our appropriations folks, 26 people working in his office that, doing all that social media, following him around with cameras,' Ward said. 'Gov. (Tom) Wolf had 12. Gov. Shapiro has 26, and there’s a reason for that, right?'

"The reason she believes is that Shapiro has his eye on a White House run.

"Ward drew another contrast between the state’s current Democratic governor and the previous one.

"Unlike Wolf, she said, Shapiro doesn’t send bills to the legislature addressing his priorities.

“'When I worked with Gov. Wolf, they would say, ‘Here is our priority,’ and they would send over something that they worked on legislatively. Then we would all go to work on the governor’s priority,' Ward said. 'But we don’t have that from Gov. Shapiro.

“'He talked about ma*****na legalization and skill games last year. We never received a bill. He just kind of says, ‘Here’s what I want to do. Let the legislature handle it, and I’ll sign it.''

"Ward says that isn’t the way to handle politics in Harrisburg. ..."

Gov. Josh Shapiro portrays himself as a governor who gets stuff done. Republican Senate Pro Tempore Kim Ward disagrees. “I would say that he is much more

DVJournal Reporting Leads to Senate Hearing on Disappearing Message App Usage"In response to Delaware Valley Journal’s r...
11/02/2025

DVJournal Reporting Leads to Senate Hearing on Disappearing Message App Usage

"In response to Delaware Valley Journal’s reporting on school officials using messaging apps that erase messages to communicate with each other, the state Senate has called a hearing to review the situation.

"The concern is that these officials are using the app to conduct official business and avoid Right-To-Know requirements, thereby keeping their communications secret from the public.

"The Senate’s Intergovernmental Operations Committee sent out notices to potential witnesses of a tentative date of March 24 for the hearing.

“'We need to understand whether or not the use of these apps violates current law. The hearing will explore how the apps are being used and hopefully generate some conversations about the issue among my colleagues,' said state Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R-Bucks/Lehigh), who chairs that committee.

"DVJournal reported in December that the Pennsbury School District was using Google Chat, automatically set to delete messages after 24 hours. A follow-up report revealed Central Bucks School District Democratic board members were using Signal, which can be set to delete messages in 24 hours, to communicate with each other.

"Why is this an issue?

"Parents and community members have a right to learn about what officials are doing behind closed doors. If their communications disappear before Right-to-Know requests can be sent, then those requests become moot, and officials can carry out public business in secret. ..."

In response to Delaware Valley Journal’s reporting on school officials using messaging apps that erase messages to communicate with each other, the state

Springfield Still Fighting To Keep Pro-Cop Flag From Flying"Although a federal court says it can’t ban a pro-cop flag fr...
11/02/2025

Springfield Still Fighting To Keep Pro-Cop Flag From Flying

"Although a federal court says it can’t ban a pro-cop flag from flying, the Springfield Township Commission isn’t going down without a fight.

"After a contentious, three-hour meeting, commissioners voted 5-2 last Thursday to keep fighting to stop township police from displaying the “Thin Blue Line” version of the American flag.

"The Third Circuit Court of Appeals recently ruled 2-1 against Montgomery County’s Springfield Township in a dispute with its police officers over displaying the pro-police symbol.

"Rather than allow the display, which some progressives say is offensive, Springfield’s lawyer will ask for the full or 'en banc' Third Circuit Court for a hearing. They want another ruling on whether the police union can use thin blue line flags on township property or in a way that would allow people to think it represented the township’s views.

"When their Police Benevolent Association adopted the thin blue line emblem in 2023, the Springfield board responded by passing a resolution banning its display. Three officers, along with the Pennsylvania FOP and the township Police Benevolent Association, filed a lawsuit. The courts have ruled in their favor. ..."

Although a federal court says it can't ban a pro-cop flag from flying, the Springfield Township Commission isn't going down without a fight. After a

PA Senate (Again) Votes to Repeal RGGI"The state Senate on Thursday voted 31-18 Thursday to repeal Pennsylvania’s member...
10/02/2025

PA Senate (Again) Votes to Repeal RGGI

"The state Senate on Thursday voted 31-18 Thursday to repeal Pennsylvania’s membership in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which Senate Republicans call a tax on electricity for Keystone State ratepayers.

“'It is time for Pennsylvania to take charge of its own energy future,' said Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Bradford), chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. 'We must close this chapter and move forward with responsible policy that strengthens grid reliability, incentivizes development, creates jobs and protects consumers from higher costs.'

"RGGI is a cooperative effort among 11 U.S. states to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the power sector. Launched in 2009, RGGI is the first mandatory market-based cap-and-trade program in the United States to address climate change.

"RGGI requires fossil fuel power plants with capacity greater than 25 megawatts to obtain an allowance for each ton of carbon dioxide they emit annually. Power plants within the region may comply by purchasing allowances from quarterly auctions, other generators within the region, or offset projects. The costs of those allowances are passed on to ratepayers.

"Rather than taking the RGGI proposal through the legislative process, then-Gov. Tom Wolf (D) forced Pennsylvania into the compact via executive order in 2019.

"Seeking to nail its coffin shut, the Senate passed a bill repealing it for the second time. Entering the compact was a top priority for Wolf, who vetoed a bill that would have required the state’s legislature to approve entering the RGGI.

"However, Pennsylvania’s status in RGGI remains tied up in the courts, with a case pending in the state Supreme Court. ..."

The state Senate on Thursday voted 31-18 Thursday to repeal Pennsylvania’s membership in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which Senate

FLOWERS: Nuance on Immigration Falls by the Wayside In Current Debate by Christine Flowers."I was just at a round table ...
10/02/2025

FLOWERS: Nuance on Immigration Falls by the Wayside In Current Debate by Christine Flowers.

"I was just at a round table where we discussed, in the most civilized manner possible, the immigration controversy.

"Everyone in the conversation liked and respected each other, and listened to the opinions, sometimes quite diverse, from those at the other end of the philosophical spectrum. Some were focused on the chaos at the border. Others wanted to find a way to legalize the millions who were living here already with no status. Another person was upset about ICE raids on a Puerto Rican restaurant that essentially amounted to an attempt to deport U.S. citizens.

Another participant mentioned that the most extreme moves from the Trump administration, like the termination of birthright citizenship, would be blocked by the courts because they were unconstitutional. And finally, someone talked about the need to get rid of criminal aliens, the ones who have been preying upon innocent Americans like Laken Riley.

To be honest, we did have that conversation. And there were a number of people at the table. But every one of those comments was made by me.

"I write this to show that you can walk and chew gum, be a law and order conservative and compassionate, oppose abortion and random and cruel family separations at the same time. In me you will find the wide range of opinions and priorities of the American public, and in me you will find someone who cannot be pushed into one category. I am neither 'deport them all,' nor am I 'accept them all.'

"This is an issue of great nuance. But unfortunately, nuance does not seem to win elections.

"I mentioned during that conversation that the slew of executive orders and actions were designed to create “shock and awe,” and keep the promises that President Donald Trump made during his campaign. While many pretended that “it was the economy, stupid,” I knew in my heart that the most explosive and compelling issue was immigration. After all, one of Trump’s first acts after his first inauguration was to issue the travel ban, which some incorrectly insisted on calling the 'Muslim Ban.' ..."

I was just at a round table where we discussed, in the most civilized manner possible, the immigration controversy. Everyone in the conversation liked and

Rothman Elected New PA GOP Chairman"In a 248 to 120 vote, Pennsylvania Republican State Committee members elected state ...
10/02/2025

Rothman Elected New PA GOP Chairman

"In a 248 to 120 vote, Pennsylvania Republican State Committee members elected state Sen. Greg Rothman as the new GOP chair on Saturday.

“'Today is a great day for the Republican Party. We will take tomorrow off and root for the Eagles, and then on Monday get to work to make Pennsylvania a solidly Republican state,' Rothman told DVJournal shortly after the vote.

“'I am deeply honored to serve as chairman of the Pennsylvania Republican Party. Together with our dedicated team, we will work to advance the values that make Pennsylvania strong, ensure our voices are heard, and empower our grassroots.'

"Rothman (R-Cumberland) fended off a challenge by Leigh Valley businessman Bill Bachenberg, who is a Trump fundraiser and first vice chair of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

"But Bachenberg does not plan to quietly fade away.

“'During our short 38-day campaign, [wife] Lynne and I have heard from the grassroots and volunteers who are the heart and soul of our state. The swamp may have won today, but the MPGA and MAGA movement can’t be stopped. The Pennsylvania GOP establishment has awoken a pride of sleeping tigers; stay tuned,' Bachenberg said. ..."

In a 248 to 120 vote, Pennsylvania Republican State Committee members elected state Sen. Greg Rothman as the new GOP chair on Saturday. “Today is a great

Pennycuick Wants to Put Voter ID Mandate in PA Constitution"Should Pennsylvania join 36 other states that require voters...
06/02/2025

Pennycuick Wants to Put Voter ID Mandate in PA Constitution

"Should Pennsylvania join 36 other states that require voters to show identification in order to vote?

"State Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-Montgomery/Berks) thinks so.

"Pennycuick is introducing legislation calling for a constitutional amendment to enhance Pennsylvania’s election security by requiring voters to present photo identification when voting in person.

"Voter ID requirements are common throughout the country. Pennsylvania is among the 14 states that do not mandate any documentation in order to vote. A strict voter ID law was enacted in 2012, but the state Supreme Court struck it down, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

"Only first-time voters must provide documentation, either photo or non-photo identification, says the Pennsylvania Department of State.

"Not good enough, says Pennycuick.

“'As a constitutional amendment, it’s the people of Pennsylvania who are going to decide if voter ID is an important component of our election system,' said Pennycuick. 'Voters support this commonsense requirement, IDs are not difficult to obtain, and there is no evidence requiring an ID when voting in person negatively affects turnout.'

"Requiring voter ID receives wide-ranging support in Pennsylvania. A June 2021 poll from Franklin and Marshall College found 74 percent of respondents, including 77 percent of independents, favor identification requirements.

"Democrats in the state House, however, oppose an ID mandate. ..."

Should Pennsylvania join 36 other states that require voters to show identification in order to vote? State Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-Montgomery/Berks)

‘Yellow Piano’ Concert Honoring Israeli Hostages Coming to Philadelphia"Alon Ohel will turn 24 on Feb. 10—that is, if he...
06/02/2025

‘Yellow Piano’ Concert Honoring Israeli Hostages Coming to Philadelphia

"Alon Ohel will turn 24 on Feb. 10—that is, if he’s still alive.

"Ohel, a talented pianist, was kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. It left more than 1,200 people dead.

"His American cousin, Benjamin Mittman, a Merion Station resident, is planning a 'Yellow Piano' concert on Feb. 23 in Wynnewood that is free and open to the public.

"Ohel is a classically trained pianist, and his family 'believes in the power of music,' said Mittman. 'They’re a very musically oriented family and Alon, when he left for the festival, he left his piano open. He usually closes it.'

"And so, his family set up a yellow piano in Hostage Square in the middle of Tel Aviv. Yellow is the color of the reminder ribbons for the hostages.

“'The piano is there for people to play in support of the hostages and to send got thoughts to Alon, who is alone in captivity,' said Mittman.

"Yellow pianos have since appeared in cities around the globe, including Paris, Berlin, London, Sydney, Melbourne, New York, and Pittsburgh. 'And now we’re doing one here in Philadelphia,' he said. 'Because there are so many hostages that are not part of the so-called Phase One of the deal, which just includes a small portion of the hostages for many, many terrorists with lots of blood on their hands.' ..."

Alon Ohel will turn 24 on Feb. 10—that is, if he’s still alive. Ohel, a talented pianist, was kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival during the Oct. 7,

COHEN: Trump Means Business on Greenland by Bonner Russell Cohen."Rather than dismissing Donald Trump’s pre-inaugural mu...
06/02/2025

COHEN: Trump Means Business on Greenland by Bonner Russell Cohen.

"Rather than dismissing Donald Trump’s pre-inaugural musings about the importance of the United States acquiring Greenland as typical Trumpian bluster, people — friend and foe — should take the man seriously. Changes are on their way in the Arctic North Atlantic.

"Greenland — two and one-half the size of Texas — is strategic in terms of its location and its natural resources. It is coveted by China and Russia, and Trump is wise to recognize the geopolitical implications of allowing the giant island to fall into unfriendly hands.

"A self-governing territory of Denmark, Greenland (population: 57,000) is pursuing complete independence. The island cannot really stand on its own. It has been kept afloat by $600 million in annual Danish subsidies, a revenue stream that will disappear once ties are cut with Copenhagen. This is where Trump enters the picture.

"In his wide-ranging Jan. 7 news conference, Trump said was an 'absolute necessity' for the United States to take ownership of the island, even threatening Denmark with tariffs and hinting at military intervention if a deal cannot be reached. Denmark refuses to sell, and Greenland’s prime minister, Mute Egede, says, 'We do not want to become American.'

"However, U.S. investments in Greenland’s mining industry and closer bilateral security ties would be welcome, Egede emphasized.

"The stakes are high. Greenland’s subsoil contains a variety of valuable minerals, rare earth metals, precious metals, and precious stones, including gold, silver, copper, lead, graphite, zinc, olivine, cryolite, and marble, according to Greenland’s Department of Environment and Mineral Resources. The island also abounds in lithium, cobalt and uranium, which, along with its rare earth elements, have a wide range of commercial and military applications. The surrounding North Atlantic waters also have the potential for oil and natural gas development. ..."

Rather than dismissing Donald Trump’s pre-inaugural musings about the importance of the United States acquiring Greenland as typical Trumpian bluster,

Delaware County Prison Officials Issued Questionable Bonuses, Records Show"Delaware County prison officials seem to have...
06/02/2025

Delaware County Prison Officials Issued Questionable Bonuses, Records Show

"Delaware County prison officials seem to have broken their own rules for bonuses given to staff, as records show some employees of the George W. Hill Correctional Facility receiving thousands of dollars in bonuses even though they don’t appear to have met the criteria.

"The questionable bonuses, which the county declined to explain, raise issues about whether the county was offering the extra money to all employees on an understandable and equitable basis, or whether politics and an element of 'picking winning and losers' may have been at play.

"The bonuses were part of the county’s efforts in 2022 to increase employee retention at the facility as the prison had just undergone a massive transition from being privately managed back to government managed.

"The county declined to rehire dozens of correctional officers who previously worked for the private management outfit, the GEO group. It also began the arduous process of hiring its own prison staff for the first time in about three decades. Along with other new workplace rules it was instituting, the county began to deal with higher than normal turnover in a sector that already has difficulty attracting and retaining employees.

"In July 2022, video from the Delaware County Jail Oversight Board shows new Warden Laura Williams explaining the “Employee Referral Bonus” to members of the board. Additionally, minutes from the September meeting of the board show the county was also offering a $2,000 retention bonus — usually split into two separate $1,000 awards — to new hires who hit certain benchmarks, the most important of which was staying on a certain length of time after the start date.

"Yet a log of bonuses paid by the county obtained by a Right to Know request raises questions about who was paid — and how much. ...

(This article first appeared in Broad + Liberty.) Delaware County prison officials seem to have broken their own rules for bonuses given to staff, as

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