6:06 p.m., January 21, 2012 6:41 p.m., January 21, 2012 7:31 p.m., January 21, 2012 10:09 p.m., January 21, 2012 10:23 p.m., January 21, 2012 Teen’s death brings about call to action By Josh Moyer Staff Writer

On a breezy evening in April, a woman burst through the doors of next day and hoped some- Mount Zion Baptist thing good could come out Church while the choir of this, that Tyler’s slay- practiced Easter songs. ing, which remains Someone — Tyler Win- unsolved, could spark uni- stead — had been shot on ty in the community. Hill Street, she said. That call planted the Winstead’s pastor at that seed for Thursday’s “Build- church, the Rev. Michael ing Bridges” event, the Brewster, soon discovered first in a series of six MARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE town-hall style meetings The Revs. Michael Brewster, left, and ShawnWalker are organizing aseries he would have to preside Winstead over the 14-year-old’s designed to address and of town-hall meetings called ‘Building Bridges,’ which they hope will help funeral. A little more than solve problems in Wilkes- stop pointing the finger identify and address problems facing the citizens of Wilkes-Barre. a mile away, Mayor Tom Barre. and ask ourselves how The Revs. Brewster and change will begin. the same way. stepped into a church Leighton prayed inside St. much we’re willing to sac- He and the Rev. Walker “I saw an overwhelming before. But I saw them Nicholas Church and Shawn Walker will moder- rifice to raise the quality ate the meetings, the first will give each group a list sea of people at the funer- come out of their comfort received word on the shoot- of life here in Wilkes- of questions to discuss. al,” the Rev. Brewster said. zone and step over that ing after Mass when he of which will touch on Barre.” youth violence and take City officials, police offi- “A nd I know a good num- line. That says volumes. checked his voicemail. After brief opening cers, faith-based leaders, ber of people had to be “A nd that’s the kind of While the Rev. Brewster place 7 p.m. Thursday in remarks by Leighton, the the Dodson Elementary school officials and com- uncomfortable coming in bridge-building we’re try- prayed with the family at reverends and a crime- munity leaders will make our church, with people of ing to do.” Geisinger, Leighton stayed School library. trend presentation by “We can’t sit back and their way around the room all different faiths and up until midnight and patrolman Phil Myers, [email protected], 570-821-2052 just leave this up to our to listen in on conversa- many who probably never waited for updates. The Thursday’s crowd will be tions, and the small groups two spoke on the phone the city administration and asked to split into small law enforcement,” the Rev. will then present their groups. problems and solutions to Brewster said. “A t this That, the Rev. Brewster ‘At this point, it’s point, it’s really time to the larger group. said, is where he’s hoping “We’re confident this really time to stop can lead to good,” Leigh- pointing the finger and IF YOU GO ton said Tuesday. Brewster said he’s been ask ourselves how The first meeting of “Building Bridges” will take place kicking around an idea for much we’re willing to 7 p.m. Thursday in the Dodson Elementary School these meetings for a while library. now but said Winstead’s sacrifice to raise the The sixth — and final — meeting is not yet scheduled, death acted as a spring- but the other meetings will take place 7 p.m. on the board. quality of life here in following dates: He didn’t want to wait Wilkes-Barre.’ ■ May 31: GAR High School library any longer to make a dif- THE CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE ■ June 7: Heights Elementary School library ference after standing over Hundreds of community members gathered on THE REV. MICHAEL BREWSTER ■ June 14: Coughlin High School library Winstead’s white casket, Hill Street in April to remember 14-year-old GAR Mount Zion Baptist ■ June 19: Meyers High School library and he’s hoping other Memorial Junior/Senior High School student Ty- Church members of the public feel ler Winstead. THE CITIZENS’ AMERICANMADE AT NOBLE FURNITURE RECLINING VOICE

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WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 7 - 05/23/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T07] | 05/22/12 20:46 | SUPERIMPSC VIEWPOINT OUR VOICE Do your part in ‘Building Bridges’

The conversation starts tonight. The first in a series of “Building Bridges” meetings arising from the tragic fatal shooting of 14-year-old Taylor Winstead in Wilkes-Barre begins at 7 p.m. in the library at the Dodson Ele- mentary School, 80 Jones St. The two ministers organiz- ing the meetings, Michael Brewster and Shawn Walker, hope to build a dialogue aimed at improving the quality of life in the city. Following opening remarks by Mayor Tom Leighton and the Revs. Brewster and Walker, city patrolman Phil Myers will present a crime-trend presentation. Then comes your part. Attendees will be split into small groups, assigned a series of questions to discuss and asked to present their problems and solutions to the larger group. “Building Bridges” is aimed at harnessing the solidarity expressed by groups across IF YOU GO the city in the wake of Win- stead’s shooting, which The first meeting of remains the subject of an “Building Bridges” will active police investigation. take place 7p.m. tonight “I saw an overwhelming in the Dodson Elementary sea of people at the funeral,” School library. Brewster told The Citizens’ The sixth — and final Voice this week. “A nd I know — meeting is not yet a good number of people had scheduled, but the other to be uncomfortable coming meetings will take place in our church, with people of 7p.m. on the following all different faiths and many Ex-Rutgers student’s punishment should fit crime dates: who probably never stepped ■ May 31:GARHigh into a church before. But I McClatchy-Tribune News Service verdict, saying it had been fairly reached. School library saw them come out of their But Berman put the case in better perspective Tuesday ■ June 7:Heights comfort zone and step over Even the 30-day prison sentence given to a former Rut- by sentencing Ravi to 30 days imprisonment, three years’ ElementarySchool library that line. That says volumes. gers University student who used a webcam to secretly probation, 300 hours of community service, cyberbullying ■ June 14: Coughlin “A nd that’s the kind of record his roommate having a romantic encounter with counseling, and a $10,000 probation fee. Those arguing Ravi High School library bridge-building we’re trying another man may have been too much. deserved the maximum 10 years in prison forget that he ■ June 19: Meyers High to do.” Many legal experts agree that Dharun Ravi, 20, probably could have avoided any jail time by agreeing to a plea bar- School library If you care about Wilkes- wouldn’t have been charged with any crime had not his vic- gain offered earlier by prosecutors. Barre, about its future and tim, Tyler Clementi, committed suicide two days after the The jury was told it shouldn’t connect Clementi’s suicide the future of its residents — particularly its youth — there September 2010 incident. to the bias charges against Ravi, and that’s what the rest of is no place you should be this evening other than the library Even so, there was no evidence that Ravi’s despicable act the world must do, too. of the Dodson Elementary School. directly triggered Clementi’s death. The assumption is rea- It would be easy to lump this case in with heinous crimes Join the conversation. sonable, but Clementi’s correspondence with a friend indi- where there was no doubt that the victims’ deaths were cal- cated he was despondent because of his mother’s reaction culated by homophobic predators. But the tragic conse- 2012 to his recent admission that he was gay. quences of Ravi’s obvious insensitivity toward Clementi

24, “Mom has basically completely rejected me,” said the 18- appear to have been unintended. Publishers year-old college freshman. Other notes left by Clementi sug- That may not satisfy Clementi’s family, which must live MAY W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., gested he wanted to stop rooming with Ravi, but there was with the fact that he took his own life. It may not satisfy Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty no hint that he was contemplating suicide. those persons who actively and necessarily seek to draw Ravi texted Clementi what he may have meant as an apol- more attention to the bigotry and violence that continue to 821-2045, [email protected] ogy after the webcam incident, saying, “I’ve known you be a fact of life for homosexuals. But it’s what’s right. DonaldFarley — General Manager were gay, and I have no problem with it. ... I don’t want your In a recent Newark Star-Ledger oped column, former

THURSDAY, 207-3449 [email protected] freshman year to be ruined because of a petty misunder- Gov. Jim McGreevey, who shocked the state with his 2004 Larry Holeva — Managing Editor standing.” announcement that he is gay, said it would be counterpro- 821-2064 [email protected] That Ravi would suggest his invasion of Clementi’s pri- ductive to the gay-rights movement to make a scapegoat of Claire Schechter — Asst. Managing Editor VOICE vacy was only a “petty misunderstanding” is outrageous. Ravi. “Homophobia was replete in Clementi’s government, 821-2023 [email protected] But his being cavalier is also what one might expect from church and culture, not just Ravi’s stupidity,” McGreevey JamesGittens — Editorial Page Editor an immature 18-year-old who just months earlier was in said. 821-2053 [email protected] high school. His behavior was callous, but criminal? The culture is changing, but it wasn’t fast enough for Published by CITIZENS’ MarkA.Altavilla — Advertising Director A Middlesex County jury said yes. In March, it convicted Tyler Clementi. His death is not in vain, though. Even as 821-2037 [email protected] Times-Shamrock Newspapers Ravi on 15 criminal counts, including invasion of privacy, the sentencing of Ravi is debated, people are also acknowl- THE Joe Nealon — Circulation Director bias intimidation, and tampering with evidence. Judge edging that much more must be done to stop the biased – 821-2078 [email protected] Glenn Berman refused a defense request to overturn the treatment of gays. 18 WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 18 - 05/24/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T18] | 05/23/12 18:38 | SUPERIMPSC BUILBuilding Bridges DING A BETTER CITY Community searches for solutions in wake of unspeakable tragedy By Bob Kalinowski Staff Writer

WILKES-BARRE — This wasn’t a speech. Five more meetings for As the Rev. Shawn Walker “Building Bridges” remain. sees it, the initial town-hall The sixth — and final — meeting of Wilkes-Barre’s meeting is not yet scheduled, “Building Bridges” program but the other meetings will was the launch of a move- take place 7 p.m. on the ment toward making the city following dates: a stronger, safer place. ■ May 31: GAR High “This is a movement that School library can only be sustained by the ■ June 7: Heights people moving,” Walker said Elementary School library after the two-hour session ■ June 14: Coughlin High Thursday night at Dodson School library Elementary School. “A ■ June 19: Meyers High speech might inspire. Thirty School library seconds later, done. What we just did here is what is going pressure to bullying, lack of to move the movement activities and poor parent- along.” ing. Walker, of First Baptist Then came the hard part: Church on River Street, and the solutions. Organizers the Rev. Michael Brewster, of asked participants to think Mount Zion Baptist Church of specific ways to combat on Hill Street, inspired the the problems and how the idea of the Building Bridges community, the city, the town-hall series following the police, schools and the media April 5 shooting death of 14- could help. year-old Tyler Winstead. Over the course of the next After hundreds came out few sessions, organizers plan to mourn Winstead at a vigil, to discuss proposed solutions Easter service, and then and how to put them in 2012 funeral, the Rev. Brewster action.

25, challenged the community to “These weren’t neighbors stay engaged and promised who came together, sat KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE MAY to organize a series of town together and stayed together. The Rev. Michael Brewster of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Wilkes-Barre hoped those attending halls. We broke them up in groups Thursday’s session would tell others, who would in turn attend future gatherings. The roughly 75 people who of people they didn’t neces- crime prevention Officer they accomplishing some-

FRIDAY, filled the school’s auditorium sarily know, ” Walker Phillip Myers, and city thing, not just listened to STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION Thursday night weren’t only explained. “What happened spokesman Drew McLaugh- rhetoric. That’s what the Thursday’s town hall meeting, organized asked to air the problems in those groups is what we lin. town-hall forums, which will following the homicide of 14-year-old Tyler they see facing the city. They wanted to happen — commu- “Tonight we start a dia- continue through June 19, Winstead, was held seven weeks since the VOICE were challenged to develop nication, real, true, open and logue that will lead to action are all about, he said. eighth-grader at GAR Junior/Senior High possible solutions. Separated honest dialogue. Difference and achieve results,” Leigh- “We’re going to put our School was fatally shot. in nine groups, the residents of opinions, but a similar ton said. minds together and start Authorities continue to investigate the brainstormed for 20 minutes focus. It was awesome.” The Rev. Brewster said he building bridges,” the Rev.

CITIZENS’ April 4 killing on Hill Street, Wilkes-Barre, about the top causes of youth The city was represented hoped participants would tell Brewster said. near Winstead’s home. No arrests have violence. The answers ranged by Mayor Tom Leighton, friends and neighbors they Winstead been made. from drugs, poverty and peer police Chief Gerard Dessoye, attended a meeting where [email protected], 570-821-2055 4– THE WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 4 - 05/25/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T04] | 05/24/12 23:16 | SUPERIMPSC Building Bridges

KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE Community members listen to a speaker during Thursday’s ‘Building Bridges’ meeting at Dodson Elementary School in Wilkes-Barre. INITIAL Victim’s grandparents IMPRESSIONS “I work here. I live here. I coach here. I’m involved here and want to remain involved here.” ‘pleasantly surprised’ — The Rev. Shawn Walker “If the community has a problem, we’re here to By Josh Moyer above her shoulder as if to discuss it. It’s myjobto Staff Writer signal “A lleluia.” see what those problems “I’m surprised by this,” are and what I can do WILKES-BARRE — Willie Willie said after the two-hour about them. Whatever Golden, the grandfather and meeting. “Pleasantly sur- the problem is, we’ll guardian of slain teenager prised. This is a good thing.” make an effort to solve Tyler Winstead, took a swig The Rev. Shawn Walker them.” of his water Thursday and recognized the family during — Wilkes-Barre police Chief surveyed the crowd in the his opening remarks and GerardDessoye warm cafeteria at Dodson commended them for attend- Elementary. ing the meeting. “We simply can’t Like the 75-or-so other “They could have sat home attack everything at residents, he sat at a lunch on the couch, but they came the same time. We’re THE table for the first meeting of out and decided to be part of building a community

“Building Bridges,” a series the solution,” he said. one bridge at a time.” CITIZENS’ of town-hall style meetings The two held hands as the — The Rev. Michael Brewster designed to tackle commu- crowd clapped. nity problems like youth Sometimes, the Rev. Walk- “I was glad to see

violence. He locked hands er said, it takes a tragedy to Tyler’s grandparents VOICE with his wife, Carol, and KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE bring a community together. there. They’ve been smiled slightly at the large Tyler Windstead’s grandparents, Willie and Carol Golden, participated in And Willie hoped maybe verystrong, not just for turnout. this meeting could be the the initial ‘Building Bridges’ meeting Thursday. their friends and their FRIDAY, “I didn’t think this many first step in preventing a families, but for the people would come, to be hon- groups, Carol refused to leave “Drugs — No. 1,” Willie gested more of a police pres- story similar to his grand- community throughout est,” Willie said. her husband’s side. said. “That’s the big one. ence. Another member of the son’s. thisunfortunate tragedy. Willie and Carol took part No one minded. Carol A soft-spoken Carol raised group, a woman with sun- “I wanted to see what peo- For them to be here and MAY in the event, sparked by the leaned on her husband’s her index finger and nodded glasses and a light-blue shirt, ple had to say, ” Willie said. to be part of rebuilding 25, death of their grandchild, shoulder in Group No. 10 as along with Willie. “A lot of said diversity among faculty “Maybe something can be the community after

and participated just like it first talked about the main peer pressure, too,” she add- in the Wilkes-Barre Area done so this doesn’t happen their tragic loss, it 2012 every other resident — with causes of community vio- ed in a whisper. school district was impor- to someone else.” speaks volumes of their one exception. When the pair lence and later addressed When the group began to tant. character.” –5 were assigned to separate solutions. discuss solutions, Willie sug- Carol raised her hand just [email protected], 570-821-2052 — Mayor TomLeighton WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 5 - 05/25/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T05] | 05/24/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC VIEWPOINT OUR VOICE Join the discussion to build a brighter future

Following a strong opening night last week, the series of “Building Bridges” meetings resumes this evening at GAR Memorial Junior/Senior High School. The meetings, organized in reaction to the fatal shooting of 14-year-old Taylor Win- stead, are aimed at finding strategies to improve the qual- ity of life in Wilkes-Barre. Last week’s meeting at the Dodson Elementary School MEETING SCHEDULE gathered 75 to 100 people who All meetings are at broke into groups to discuss 7p.m.: the root causes of youth vio- ■ Tonight:GARHigh lence in the city and possible School library solutions. ■ June 7:Heights The generally agreed-upon ElementarySchool library causes were not novel or sur- ■ June 14: Coughlin prising: Drugs, peer pressure, High School library violent media, a lack of eco- ■ June 19: Meyers High nomic opportunity, ineffective School library parenting. Neither were the proposed solutions: More youth-centered activities, parenting-skills classes, better role models, neighborhood involvement. What was surprising was the diversity of the crowd, their willingness to participate and their passion for their city. At its core, the “Building Bridges” program, ably launched by the Rev. Michael Brewster and the Rev. Shawn Walker, is about making connections — connections Yankees records ruling sets precedent between citizens and city officials, connections between the city’s neighborhoods, connections that cross the lines of The question of whether a private manager had to reveal the International League franchise that it had managed. It ethnicity, economics and religion. bids for a concession contract at publicly owned PNC Field also has signed a lease for that team to play at PNC Field, By drawing in people and ideas from across the city, never was just about who sold hot dogs at baseball games. It which the authority still owns. “Building Bridges” hopes to establish a dialogue that will was about nothing less than the openness and transparency But the decision is an important precedent because of develop not just new programs, but a shared feeling of of the government. the broad principle it establishes, beyond the specific ques- responsibility that can only improve the lives of those who A unanimous opinion issued Wednesday by the state tion of whether the authority and SWB Yankees must dis- call Wilkes-Barre home. Supreme Court, upholding a decision by Lackawanna close the concession bids. The effort is just beginning and there is much work and County Judge Terrence Nealon in a public-records case “Some municipal authorities have come to typify the discussion ahead. brought by The Times-Tribune, firmly establishes that the phenomenon of line-blurring between public and private If you want to be part of that discussion and help build a government can’t hide public information through the con- enterprise, with the Stadium Authority serving as an apt brighter future for the city, be at GAR High School tonight at tractors it hires to conduct public business. example,” the opinion stated. “We do not see that the gov- 7 p.m. In 2009 this newspaper asked the Lackawanna County ernment’s entry into areas which might more comfortably What you encounter there might surprise you. Multi-Purpose Stadium Authority for copies of bids that its be associated with the private sector suggests diminished contracted manager, SWB Yankees LLC, claimed to have cause for openness.” 2012 solicited for the stadium’s concession business. In other words, public records are public records regard- OUR The authority, a public agency, shamefully chose less of whether they are held by the government or a pri- 31, to keep the public in the dark, even though con- vate contractor, even in an unconventional government Publishers VOICE MAY W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., cession revenue was integral to financial opera- enterprise like baseball. The court found that the records tions at the publicly owned stadium. It claimed that solicit- cannot be shielded by claiming them as a proprietary aspect Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty ing bids and awarding contracts for work at a publicly of a private company engaged in government work. 821-2045, [email protected] owned stadium somehow was not a “governmental func- Since the stadium remains publicly owned, disclosure DonaldFarley — General Manager tion” under the law. Yet the authority itself would have issues are likely to arise relative to business transacted by

THURSDAY, 207-3449 [email protected] sought those bids and awarded contracts in the absence of SWB Yankees LLC, which now owns the franchise and Larry Holeva — Managing Editor a private contractor, just as it had done prior to hiring that manages the stadium. 821-2064 [email protected] private manager. The impact is much broader, however. The state School Claire Schechter — Asst. Managing Editor

VOICE Manager SWB Yankees LLC, a consortium of Manda- Boards Association and a group representing private foun- 821-2023 [email protected] lay Baseball Properties and the New York Yankees, hired dations tied to public universities filed friends of the court JamesGittens — Editorial Page Editor a company that is partially owned by the New York Yan- briefs in the case, arguing against disclosure. 821-2053 [email protected] kees, while claiming that it had solicited bids from two Public bodies now know, however, that the invaluable Published by

CITIZENS’ MarkA.Altavilla — Advertising Director others. Right to Know Law precludes them from shielding the con- 821-2037 [email protected] Times-Shamrock The state Office of Open Records, Nealon and the Com- duct of public business through third parties. They not Newspapers THE Joe Nealon — Circulation Director monwealth Court all had ruled in favor of disclosure. only should be prepared to disclose public information to – 821-2078 [email protected] SWB Yankees since has purchased from the authority the public, but be eager to do so. 18 WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 18 - 05/31/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T18] | 05/30/12 17:26 | SUPERIMPSC Ideas abound at Building Bridges meeting At second gathering, community members brainstorm solutions to city’s teen violence

By Josh Moyer all I needed to hear.” Staff Writer Mann leaned back in his library chair and spoke softly WILKES-BARRE — Carl- — but passionately — during ton Mann spoke slowly the small group meeting. All Thursday as he crossed his youth violence, he said, can orange-and-white Air Jor- be traced back to one ele- dans and discussed growing ment: Family. If drugs up without a father around remain a pressing issue, it’s the Philadelphia projects. only because a child doesn’t The 29-year-old Wilkes- have a positive role model. Barre resident acknowledged Ditto for violence. he took a wrong turn in his “Yup, yup,” Winstead’s youth, heading down a path grandfather, Willie Golden, paved with drugs and vio- said, turning to Mann with a lence, but he’s since become a nod. devoted family man. He was As Mann folded his hands one of more than 90 residents over his long jean shorts and who attended Thursday’s sec- listened to the group, the Rev. ond “Building Bridges” meet- Walker surveyed the crowd. ing at GAR Junior/Senior It was notably larger than the KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE High School, and he echoed a first, and the Rev. Walker Facilitator Carmen Kahiu works with a group of GAR Junior/Senior High School in Wilkes-Barre sentiment shared by many paused for a moment when community members during the Building Bridges on Thursday. It was the second of six community who came for the first time. asked why it expanded. community building meeting held in the library at meetings exploring ways to improve the city. “I may not save 100 kids,” He furrowed his brow he said. “But if I save one, slightly and then smiled. QUOTED that’s pretty good. That’s why “People are interested in FUTURE MEETINGS I’m here.” the movement,” he said. “It’s a good feeling to see so many people coming together The second meeting fol- “We’re not seeing this as a Four more meetings for to help make this a better community. And they’re really lowed an agenda similar to series of meetings but as a “Building Bridges” remain. enthused. And when they’re enthused, it makes me enthused.” the first. The Revs. Shawn let’s-get-something-done The sixth — and final — — Maureen Lavelle, Wilkes-Barre councilwoman Walker and Michael Brews- movement. This is something meeting is not yet scheduled, ter addressed the crowd, people have been able to latch but the other meetings will “I hear it all the time, ‘I’m going to get out of the city. The police Officer Phil Myers onto, to use this Building take place 7 p.m. on the following dates: city’s in trouble. Things aren’t the way they used to be.’ And offered a Powerpoint presen- Bridges campaign to finally ■ June 7: Solomon Plains Junior High School library* we can cut and run to the Back Mountain, we can cut and run tation, and residents then do something and make a dif- ■ June 14: Coughlin High School library to Mountain Top, or we can choose to stay and fight. That’s broke into 10 small groups to ference.” ■ June 19: Meyers High School library the choice I’ve made. That is a choice that I think collectively discuss what leads to youth *Changed from Heights Elementary School library we have made — or you would not be here tonight.” violence and how to stop it. [email protected], 570-821-2052 — The Rev.Shawn Walker New faces packed GAR’s library, a place 14-year-old “I don’t plan to leave here. Like Pastor Walker, I plan to fight. shooting victim Tyler Win- I plan to see our quality of life reflect the beauty of this area.” stead would often visit. His — The Rev. Michael Brewster aunt, Janice Watson-Holmes, came for the first time to bet- “You can’t do this by yourself. We can’t do it by ourselves, ter understand where such as the police. There has to be a working relationship between violence originates. the community and everybody to be successful.” “It was more than what I — Wilkes-Barre police Officer Phil Myers expected,” Watson-Holmes THE

said, following the two-hour COMMUNITY’S VOICE CITIZENS’ meeting. “I wish we actually had more time.” Ten small groups on Thursday discussed the biggest issues Wilkes-Barre resident leading to youth violence. After each group narrowed those

Quinn Johnson, 24, a relative issues on a top 3 list, they shared that with the overall group. VOICE of February’s GAR machete The issues that made those top 3 lists most often included: victim Marquis Allen, said he ■ Parenting came to help solve the issue ■ Peer Pressure of youth violence. Another ■ Lack of Morals FRIDAY, resident, Wilkes-Barre native Those small groups met again and discussed solutions to Bill Montgomery, said he those issues. Some of those suggestions included: swore to attend once his wife ■ Creating a community center JUNE raved about the first meeting. ■ Hosting more block parties

Montgomery ended up call- ■ Taking children on field trips to prisons 1, KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE ing friends, such as Mann, ■ Establishing mentoring programs 2012 and urged them to show. From left, Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton and the Revs. Shawn Walker ■ Creating trading cards of local police officers that could “I heard this was about the and Michael Brewster break the crowd into work groups during the Build- be traded among younger children to create a connection –3 kids,” Mann added. “That’s ing Bridges community building meeting. ■ Creating more activities for the youth WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 06/01/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 05/31/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC Building Bridges ready W-B Area school board approves to hear from area teens budget with slight tax increase By Peter Cameron age property owner and will solicitor,” Wendolowski By Matt Bufano Staff Writer generate about $400,000. said. Staff Writer To help plug a $5 million The school district does WILKES-BARRE — In the deficit, the school district not have to bid out the posi- WILKES-BARRE — The end, taxes will go up, if ever will not be filling the posi- tion because it is considered “Building Bridges” series of so slightly. tions of seven retiring teach- a professional service, Toole meetings concluded its adult The Wilkes-Barre Area ers for a savings of about said. sessions Thursday at Cough- school board voted to $750,000, and took about The audit of Lupas’ and lin High School with more approve its $100 million final $2 million from its rainy day Wendolowski’s billing discussion of how to stop budget, including a small tax fund. About $5.5 million records, ordered by the teen violence. increase, for the 2012-2013 remains in the fund. school district after Lupas The group is now prepar- school year at a special meet- Seventh- and eight-grade was alleged to be running a ing for its final meeting — the ing Thursday. The prelimi- sports were also brought phony investment scheme, first meeting among teenage KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE The Rev. Shawn Walker, left, and the Rev. Michael nary budget approved last back at a cost of $100,000. should be finished by next students. month included no tax Brewster chart ideas during the Building Bridges In a hot button topic, busi- month, Toole said. “A s we’ve been going on, increase. ness Manager Leonard In other news, the board meeting at Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre. we’ve seen more youth get- The dissents came from Przywara said the district voted to give the required ting involved, but now they’re dedicated to finding solutions Lynn Evans, Christine Kat- has budgeted $200,000 for one-year notice to withdraw going to tell us the truth and to reducing teen violence. sock, James Susek and Pres- legal fees, presumably to from the Northeast Pennsyl- tell us what should be done to “We want to prove that this ident Maryanne Toole. Raymond Wendolowski, vania School Districts Health make the community safer,” is something that’s not going The Wilkes-Barre Area who currently is in negotia- Trust, a group of 11 public said police Officer Phil authority figures. to fizzle or fall by the side,” School District raised prop- tions with the board to be school entities pooled togeth- Myers, who has attended Holding the meeting with the Rev. Brewster said. “We’re erty taxes by 1 percent, but the sole attorney for the dis- er to increase their health each meeting. teenagers is an important going to be working tirelessly could have gone as high as trict after serving under care bargaining power, j oin- The Rev. Michael Brewster step, the Rev. Brewster said, from now until September, 2.4 percent by state law. The Anthony J. Lupas as the ing at least five others. announced that the meeting as it will continue to show when we unveil our strate- increase will amount to assistant. for middle and high school everyone the community is gies and solutions.” about $10 more for the aver- “The idea is to have one [email protected], 570-821-2110 students will be July 26 at the Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center, and will fea- ture incentives to get teens to attend. COMPLETE POOL Among them is a gift bas- TODAYTHRU ket containing at least $50 PACKAGE FROM worth of rewards for the first SUNDAY 25 students who register and $899 POOLPOOL BUYERBUYERS!S! stay for the meeting. Also, each of the kids in the group whose strategy is chosen as ABOVE GROUND POOLS INGROUND POOLS the one put into use will •STEEL •STAINLESS STEEL •ALUMINUM ONE PIECE FIBERGLASS receive a $100 Visa gift card. INGROUND “The topic (of reducing teen violence) is going to stay POOLS the same, but we’re bringing a lot more energy to the next FROM meeting,” the Rev. Brewster $ said. The Rev. Brewster said “80 14,999 to 100 students being there would be exceptional” and that the ideas the students want to see implemented 2012 could be the most crucial

29, adults have heard yet. ROUNDS –OVAL–DECK AND FENCE POOLS ON SALE NOW! “We might be off base with

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BREAKING NEWS AT citizensvoice.com July 15, 2012 A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Let’s talk Little League,big games Secretary of State Clinton South W-B, Back Mountain American advance meets with Egyptian leader. in quest for berth in state tournament. PAGE A8 PAGE B1 BOTHE FREEAHREPRORTDWASN’T

M ARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’VOICE The Rev. Michael Brewster, one of the driving forces behind ‘Building Bridges,’ hopes to hear from middle KEPTIN LOOP and high school students at the July 26 meeting. Officials, aware of impending charges against Community Sandusky, allowed Paterno a record-setting hurrah effort appeals By Michael R. Sisak STAFF WRITER Days before Joe Paterno’s record- to area’s kids setting 409th win last October, as an unusually early snowstorm swept toward Penn State, senior officials Organizer hopes more young people there learned the bombshell news will attend next scheduled session that former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky would soon be By Bob Kalinowski arrested for a string of heinous sex STAFF WRITER assaults on children. With three more young The university’s general counsel lives lost to gunfire in Plym- at the time, Cynthia Baldwin, outh, the Rev. Michael Brews- briefed the officials — president ter senses the anger, frustra- Graham Spanier, athletic director tion and fear building in the THE VICTIMS Tim Curley and board of trustees community. He hears the Tyler Winstead, 14 chairman Steve Garban — on the complaints about youth vio- Wilkes-Barre expected charges and the simulta- lence and demands for safer neous allegations of a decade-long neighborhoods. Winstead was fatally shot cover-up involving Curley and The Wilkes-Barre minister April 5 near his Hill Street another top official, an internal has a demand himself: help home. His death was ruled investigation found. him become part of the solu- a homicide,but prosecu- Spanier downplayed the serious- tion. tors have declined to reveal information about the case ness of the cover-up allegations, Following the shooting because it involves a 13- according to a report on the investi- death of a 14-year-old just feet year-old defendant.Win- gation released Thursday, and sent from his church, the Rev. Garban a draft of a statement stead’s death inspired the Brewster spearheaded a cam- Building Bridges project. expressing the university’s “uncon- paign called “Building Bridg- ditional support” for Curley and the es” to address and combat Lisa Abaunza, 15 other accused official, senior vice youth violence. The triple- Duryea president Gary Schultz. homicide in Plymouth, he Nicolas Maldonado, 17 Garban, who as a senior vice says, is proof the task will Stroudsburg president at the university had not be easy, but is desperately Bradley Swartwood, 21 worked directly under Spanier, needed. Nanticoke alerted just two of the 31 other “Building Bridges is here members of the board of trustees and is here at the right time. Abaunza, Maldonado,and over the next three days. The rest It is in many ways divine in Swartwood were killed learned of the arrests after they light of what happened prior July7during abotched happened, on Nov. 4 and 5, the and what is happening now, ” drug deal at 401 First St. report said. the Rev. Brewster said last in Plymouth. Police say Garban’s delay in informing the week. “We need to come up a 16-year-old gunman full board of the impending arrests with some solutions. We have opened fire on aman,then of Sandusky, Curley and Schultz — to rally together.” shot everyone in the house in an attempt to eliminate coupled with his decision last April Hundreds of area resi- witnesses. Maldonado’s not to alert the board of the under- dents, mostly adults, have lying grand jury investigation for brother, Danny, 19, suffered a critical head wound. nearly a month — hampered the CONTINUED ON PAGE A6 board’s ability to prepare for the charges and smacked of the culture MATT ROURKE / ASSOCIATED PRESS CONTINUED ON PAGE A4 Penn State board of trustees member Steve Garban arrives for a meeting Friday at the university’s Worthington Scranton campus. Paterno got richer pact amid inquiry

By Jo Becker with the timing something of a sur- NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE prise because the contract was not set In January 2011, Joe Paterno to expire until the end of 2012, accord- learned that prosecutors were ing to documents and people with KRISTENMULLEN / THE CITIZENS’VOICE investigating his longtime assis- knowledge of the discussions. By Assistant county engineer Chris Belleman shows off tant coach Jerry Sandusky for August, Paterno and the university’s the courthouse’s completed northwest dome. sexually assaulting young boys. president, both of whom were by then Soon, Paterno had testified embroiled in the Sandusky investiga- Courthouse dome before a grand jury, and the rough tion, hammered out an agreement. outlines of what would become a The coach was to be paid $3 mil- giant scandal had been pub- lion, if and when he agreed to retire receives makeover lished in a local newspaper. at the end of the 2011 season. Inter- That same month, Paterno, est-free loans totaling $350,000 that By Michael P. Buffer Then again, maybe you the football coach at the university had made to Paterno STAFF WRITER didn’t notice the change from Penn State, began over the years would be forgiven. WILKES-BARRE — As white to gray. what would become He’d have the use of the university’s the $5 million project to “I thought we were going an aggressive nego- private plane and a luxury box at restore and repair the exte- to get flooded with phone tiation with his Beaver Stadium for him and his fam- rior of the 103-year-old calls,” Assistant County superiors to ily to use over the next 25 years. Luzerne County Courthouse Engineer Chris Belleman amend his wraps up, you may have said. “We have had no calls. contract, CONTINUED ON PAGE A5 noticed the color of main I’m really surprised.” dome and four small domes  ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE is changing. CONTINUED ON PAGE A12

WINNER OF THE 2012 KEYSTONE PRESS SWEEPSTAKES AWARD — SEE CITIZENSVOICE.COM/AWARDS © 2012 The Citizens’ Voice SUNDAY WEATHER BIRTHDAYS C8 EDITORIAL A10 OBITUARIES B10-11 Plentyofappeal High 87º BRIDES C3 HOROSCOPE C7 PUBLIC SQUARE C1 Subscribe Retailer: There’s a lot Low 67º CLASSIFIED D1-24 LOCAL/STATE A3 STOCKS H6-7 to the Voice to like at Centerpoint. 570-821-2010 Unsettled A2 CROSSWORD C7 LOTTERY A2 WORLD/NATION A8 PAGE H1 WB_VOICE/PAGES [A06] | 07/14/12 22:20 | SUPERIMPSC

A6 || THE SUNDAY VOICE |SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2012

Block party with a message Victims’ family, friends invited to participate

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A1

attended the program’s five town hall meetings the past two months, brainstorming about the roots of teenage violence and ways to coun- teract the trend. The next meeting, set for 7 p.m. July 26 at the Catholic Youth Center in Wilkes-Barre, is geared toward youths themselves. Middle and high school students are invited to share their thoughts about the problems and what they think could be done. “We want to hear what they’re experiencing, what KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE they’re seeing in our neigh- borhood so we can get more Above: Event organizer of a pulse of what the prob- Darlene Duggins, of Wil- lems may be, as they see it,” kes-Barre, leads people said the Rev. Brewster, pastor in a dance during the of Mount Zion Baptist ‘United We Stand Divided Church on Hill Street, Wil- We Fall’ drug-free block MARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE kes-Barre. “It’s the first time, party on Public Square in The Rev. Michael Brewster believes the community must come together to over- really, since we began that we Wilkes-Barre on Satur- come the challenges it faces. are able to hear from the kids day. Left: DJ MO, Michael themselves.” bigger picture,” the Rev. Onley, of Wilkes-Barre, The inspiration for Build- Brewster said. “We are not spins tunes. The free ing Bridges was the April 5 ignorant to the realities of event included dancing, shooting death of Tyler Win- the challenges we have ahead contests and food. stead, an eighth-grader at of us, but we are not intimi- GAR Junior/Senior High dated by those challenges. School who was killed on Hill We can’t allow naysayers to May family plans to build Street, just doors away from discourage us from the larg- his home and church. At his Winstead Abaunza Maldonado Swartwood er pursuit of a thriving com- standing-room-only funeral, munity, a safe community for state-of-the-art bakery the Rev. Brewster challenged wounded from a gunshot our families here in Wilkes- mourners to stay motivated blast to the head. Barre.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE A3 Bower and father-in-law and support his efforts. Family and friends of the Reaching youths and fami- Joseph Bower have been in the lies that want to be helped is In addition to being Suno- Building Bridges was soon victims are encouraged to donut business for more than the easy part. Connecting co and Gulf distributors, the born and the need for the help with the cause, the Rev. IF YOU GO: The next ‘Build- 25 years, starting out as Mr. with those without positives Mays have 10 convenience program became clearer, the Brewster said. ing Bridges’ meeting will be Donut franchisees and now influences in their lives is stores throughout Northeast- Rev. Brewster said, as youth “We would like to let them held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July owning Dunkin’ Donuts res- tougher and, he said, they are ern Pennsylvania. violence continued: Two 17- know we are thinking about 26 at the Wyoming Valley taurants through Bowers the ones who need help the “I said we needed to diver- year-olds were shot June 13 them, praying for them and Catholic Youth Center, 36 S. Donuts Inc. of Pottsville. It was most. sify a little bit,” come up with in a playground under the we welcome them to link Washington St., Wilkes-Barre. through them Eric May said “It’s going to take the eyes something that could either South Street Bridge in Wil- arms with Building Bridges he learned to be staunch about hoods and change lives, the of teachers, the eyes of resi- be paired with the conve- kes-Barre. A 22-year-old suf- and help us to address this the freshness of products. Rev. Brewster said. dents, looking out for people nience stores or be freestand- fered a gunshot wound to the issue at hand. We need By the way, Heather and Just a few proposed solu- who are struggling. We need ing, Eric May said. head during a broad-daylight them,” the Rev. Brewster Jason met in the most appro- tions are creating small com- to renew hope and help them,” “With a little luck and shooting July 6 on Jay Street, said. “We know there is going priate of settings: a Dunkin’ munity centers throughout the Rev. Brewster said. research, we ended up with Wilkes-Barre. The next day, to be a lot of energy they are Donuts franchisee conven- Wilkes-Barre, establishing Building Bridges leaders Dunkin’ Donuts,” he said. three youths were fatally shot going to have. What better tion in Las Vegas. “safe houses” for youth who are trying to develop a series The Mays plan to build a at 401 First St. in Plymouth way to direct or channel that Eric May said the family is feel threatened and hosting of benchmarks to measure new 4,000- to 5,000-square- during a botched drug deal. energy, and honor the life and considering opening more free activities for youths to the success of the organiza- foot, state-of-the-art bakery to Those killed were: Lisa legacy of their loved ones, by restaurants, but haven’t keep them off the streets, he tion, but it’s already clear it’s further improve the business. Abaunza, 15, of Duryea, linking arms and partnering picked the locations yet. said. off to a good start, the Rev. Eric May said they bake and Nicolas Maldonado, 17, of with Building Bridges and “We’ve got a couple on the Have any ideas? The Rev. Brewster said. deliver the doughnuts “mul- Stroudsburg, and Bradley other like organization who horizon right now, ” he said. Brewster welcomes them all. “We feel we are already suc- tiple times a day, ” taking Swartwood, 21, of Nanticoke. are seeking to prevent such As with any bold project cessful in that we are bringing pride in their freshness. [email protected] A fourth victim, Danny Mal- tragedies from happening to CV like this, Building Bridges a community together to Heather’s husband Jason 570-821-2072 donado II, 19, was critically other families in the future.” Following July’s session, certainly has its critics who talk,” the Rev. Brewster said. the organizers of Building think its goals are naive or “That is an enormous feat Bridges will deliver a presen- unattainable, the Rev. Brews- right there, to have the kind of tation in Wilkes-Barre to ter acknowledges. momentum we’ve had week to update the community on its “You’re always going to week, and not seeing it die progress and proposed solu- have people who will be your out.” tions. The goal is to change naysayers, who will not be POOL SALE! [email protected] POOL SALE! the culture, change neighbor- able to see hope or see the CV 570-821-2055, @cvbobkal One PieceFiberglass Pools SAVE TO $3,000

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WILKES-BARRE — After months of speculation by Business Improvement District inW-B renewed concerned adults about Wilkes-Barre City Council renewed the city’s downtown causes of youth violence as Business Improvement District at a brief special meeting part of the Building Bridges Wednesday. program, the kids of the Wil- The city first designated such a district five years ago. kes-Barre area finally had Commercial property owners in the district pay a fee that goes their say Thursday night. toward improving public services downtown, overseen by What young people see as Diamond City Partnership. the problems and the possible Facade improvement and extra security have been the focus solutions was all that mat- of the program, city spokesman Drew McLaughlin said. tered at the final Building Next year, the group that oversees the program will spend Bridges work session held at about $51,000 on marketing and recruitment, according to a the Catholic Youth Center. KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE proposed budget presented at a May meeting about the district. The youths had the floor, Adults sit in the Catholic Youth Center bleachers Thursday as middle —Bill Wellock literally. Roughly 50 middle and high students participate in the final Building Bridges work session W-B Crime Watch will discuss safety devices and high school students Thursday. filled the gymnasium floor The Wilkes-Barre Crime Watch Coalition will offer information with a group of moderators, on defibrillators and fire extinguishers at upcoming meetings. while the adults were mere The meeting dates and times are: spectators in the bleachers. ■ Heights —7p.m. Thursday, First Welsh Presbyterian “We need your help,” Church, South Meade and East Northampton streets. pleaded the Rev. Shawn Walk- major theme of the night. ■ North End —7p.m. July 30, St. Mary’s Social Hall, 522 er, one of the co-founders of “If you see someone get- Madison St. the Building Bridges pro- ting bullied, tell someone,” ■ South Wilkes-Barre —7p.m. Aug. 6, St. John’s Lutheran gram. “That’s why the adults Tae-Sjaah said. Church, 410 S. River St. are up there.” After a quick rock, paper, ■ Rolling Mills Hills/Mayflower/Iron Triangle — 6:30 p.m. Aug. One of those adults watch- scissors ice breaker to get 7, St. Andrews, 316 Parrish St. ing was U.S. Attorney Peter the children acquainted ■ East End —7p.m. Aug. 13, Holy Savior Church, 54 Smith, the chief prosecutor with each other — and to Hillard St. for 33 Pennsylvania counties, award winners with a movie ■ Central City — 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15, Provincial Tower, 34 S. including Luzerne, who said ticket — the students broke Main St. he came to learn about the into groups like the adults ■ Parsons —7p.m. Aug. 16, Primitive Methodist Church, program. did in the five previous ses- 193 Austin Ave. The Rev. Walker leveled sions. ■ Miners Mills —7p.m. Aug. 20, Marine Corps League, 158 with the youngsters about They filled out an anony- E. Main St. how it came about: the April mous survey that asked For more information, call 570-208-8900 or log onto www. 5 shooting death of 14-year- questions like: Do you feel wbcrimewatch.org. old Tyler Winstead — some- safe at school? Have you ever one around their age and a observed drugs or alcohol TODAY’S BEST BET good kid just like them. Win- being used at school? Have Hit downtown Tunkhannock tonight for Fourth Friday. stead’s death sparked an you or someone you know More than 20 participating downtown businesses along outpouring by the commu- ever been offered drugs by a Tioga Street/Route 6 from just past Warren and Pine nity to combat youth vio- friend? Do you know where streets are open until 9 p.m. For information, visit www.

lence and eventually the cre- to get help? The survey also tunkhannockbusiness.com. THE ation of Building Bridges. asked for tips on how to “If it happened to Tyler, improve things. CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS CITIZENS’ believe me, it could happen After brainstorming for A restaurant profile in Thursday’s JumpStart! requires KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE clarification. Barry and Marci Hosier, owners of B3Q to you,” Walker said. about 20 minutes, the groups Middle and high school students discussed topics Some of the students collaborated to form what Smokehouse at 200 Wyoming Ave., West Pittston, are

affecting the community, including bullying, access VOICE they believed were the top leasing the space from friend and supporter Frank Colella, arrived at the youth center to drugs and weapons, and feeling ignored. as early as 5:30 p.m. for the 7 problems facing youth: easy whose chiropractic practice moved from there to 135 Main p.m. meeting. The first to access to drugs and weapons, St., Pittston. All the input from the past dance raised his or her hand.

pass through the registra- bullying that leads people to FRIDAY, few months is being collected “You guys did exactly what tion table was Tae-Sjaah group identities for protec- A story in Monday’s edition incorrectly said the federal and analyzed to be presented we wanted to achieve,” said Williams, a 13-year-old from tion, boredom, and feeling Trafficking Victims Protection Act defines sex trafficking as at a larger overall meeting the Rev. Michael Brewster, ignored. They then brain- using force, fraud or coercion to induce individuals under South Wilkes-Barre and a JULY before school resumes with the other co-founder of rising eighth-grader at Mey- stormed again to seek solu- age 18 to perform a commercial sex act. The law says that officials from the communi- Building Bridges. “You were tions, which ranged from when dealing with minors under age 18, inducing them to ers Junior/Senior High 27, ty, city, schools and police. open. You were honest. We School. She thought one of more free community events perform such an act is defined as sex trafficking regardless Asked at the end of the thank you so much.” the biggest issues leading to to harsher consequences for of whether force, fraud or coercion is involved. 2012 meeting if they wanted to youth violence was bullying, those who create the prob- participate in future meet- [email protected], 570-821-2055 lems. It is our policy to correct errors promptly. To report an error, which eventually became a @cvbobkal –3 ings, every student in atten- please call the city desk at 821-2056.

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 07/27/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 07/26/12 23:02 | SUPERIMPSC WB_VOICE/PAGES [A08] | 09/08/12 16:14 | SUPERIMPSC

A8 || THE CITIZENS' VOICE |SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 THE CITIZENS’ VOICE Editorial Board Publishers L arryHoleva, Managing Editor W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., Claire Schechter, Asst. Managing Editor Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty James Gittens, Editorial Page Editor Donald Farley, General Manager Dave Janoski, Projects Editor Community can stop rise of gun violence

T he revelation that 14-year-old Tyler Winstead was eral months and she actively participated in efforts to killed not in a deliberate drive-by shooting, but accident- deceive investigators after the shooting, according to ly by a 13-year-old friend fooling with his father’s hand- police, who have charged her with several misdemean- gun does not change the difficult questions the Winstead ors. case presents to our community. The Winstead case, the fatal drug-related shooting of In fact, the issues raised in the series of Building three young people in Plymouth in July and the seem- Bridges meetings organized by two local pastors in reac- ingly increased incidence of gun violence in Wyoming tion to the April shooting are just as pertinent, no matter Valley cry out for community soul-searching and the particulars of Tyler’s death. response. In session after session, those attending the Building Luckily, the Building Bridges program is already in Our Voice Bridges meetings have pointed to the place to help us confront those problems and band allure of crime and violence to youth together to find solutions. Those solutions might include in our community, a lack of parenting increased employment and recreation programs for at- skills and role models and the availability of firearms risk youth, effective parenting classes for adults and and other weapons as threats to the wellbeing of our crime-watch initiatives to make our neighborhoods saf- community. er, fear less pervasive and firearms less prevalent. One of the Building Bridges organizers said a survey Inaction is not an option, given the appalling violence of youths participating in the program found that 30 per- that is becoming more and more commonplace in Wyo- cent knew someone who had brought a weapon to ming Valley. school. There is still much work to be done, but Building KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE In the Winstead case, the .22-caliber handgun was in a Bridges has laid the groundwork. The Rev. Shawn Walker speaks to members of the lockbox that wasn’t locked, the alleged shooter’s mother If we pull together as a community we can make a dif- community during the first Building Bridgesmeet- was not aware he had been playing with the gun for sev- ference and prevent the next tragedy. ing at Dodson Elementary in Wilkes-Barre.

The winners and losers from this week’s news, as selected by the editors of The Citizens’ Voice.

CHEERS to the Luzerne County Fair, which opened a four- :) day run Thursday at the fairgrounds in Lehman Township. This marks the 50th year the fair has offered an outdoor exhibition of the very best products and fun in Luzerne County.

JEERS to the person who scribbled anti-Semitic graffiti on a :( wall of a Kingston veterinarian’s office. Anyone with information about the cowardly hate crime should call Kingston police at 570-288-3674.

CHEERS to community leaders Leonard Insalaco, Lita Insa- :) laco and Dr. William V. Lewis, who will be honored Monday by the Family Service Association of Wyoming Valley for their contributions to the non-profit association, which offers pro- grams for families, children and individuals.

JEERS to our less-than-hardworking lawmakers in Harrisburg, who, despite being among the highest-paid state legislators in :( the nation, won’t return from their summer vacations until Sept. 24. They’ll likely hold only nine session days before taking an election break in mid-October. Nice work if you can get it.

Your Voice: Letters to the editor Mechanic did citizen of Pennsylvania. the poor, the elderly, minori- for the state of Pennsylva- our flag, Independence Day to display the flag. unauthorized work That time has now come ties and students. What hap- nia, a crime against all legal is our nation’s birthday and My questions were not or- with the enforcement of the pened to their protection un- voters nationwide and a Veterans Day honors those ders. When I suggested the My husband recently Voter ID law. der the Voting Rights Act of shameful attempt to steal who served and are serving mayor issue a request proc- brought his vehicle to a local I n a recent court hearing 1965, which guarantees the the presidency of the United in the military, not a single lamation for the community mechanic to have the front to overturn the Voter ID law, right to vote to racial, ethnic States of America. response came from either to display the flag, he stated brakes checked as there was the spokesperson for the and minority citizens? DAN SIDERIO council. he issues many proclama- squeaking when the brake state could cite no instances Whatever happened to Gettysburg Space won’t allow me tions and has a small staff. was applied. of voter fraud. encouraging more and more to detail all my comments How’s that for an answer? He mentioned to this me- The Republican judge people to exercise their right Encourage people during those meetings. I After my first question chanic the problem he was then ruled to uphold the to vote? to fly the flag will, however, relate several to the Wilkes-Barre mayor having and left his vehicle to Voter ID law. Simple. questions I presented to and council, the chairperson be looked at. I n his six years as Penn- The people targeted by the The lack of encourage- both councils, looking for interrupted me and stated Later in the day we re- sylvania Attorney General, Voter ID law do not agree ment to display our nation- answers. they would not respond ceived a phone call and were Republican Gov. Tom Cor- with the agenda of the Voter al emblem, the American I asked that they each to any of my questions. I advised that the car was bett did not prosecute one ID law supporters, so let’s flag, by the mayors and raise their hand if they replied whether you answer finished. single case of voter fraud. just make it as difficult as councils of Kingston and were in agreement with the or not I’m going to ask the We then learned that But he signed the Voter ID possible for them to vote, Wilkes-Barre to its citizens questions. questions anyway and then not only did the mechanic bill. even if their right to vote is is nothing but shameful. First, how many members proceeded. They did not replace the front brakes Statewide, the Republican guaranteed by law. I personally attended the of council and mayors con- respond. but also replaced the rear members of the House of You never hear the Repub- July and August council sider the American flag a Displaying our nation’s flag brakes. Representatives and of the lican nominee for president meetings of both commu- flag of honor? is a visible way of honoring His explanation for replac- Senate, hiding behind the or the Republican nominee nities requesting they see Second, how many of you those who served and are ing all four brakes was that “voter fraud” smokescreen, for vice president mention that the main thorough- believe the American flag serving our nation in time of he could not turn the rotors voted to support the Voter what is going on in Repub- fares, in particular during renders honor and need not war and peace. any more than what he had ID bill. lican controlled states in patriotic holidays and es- be altered to do so? Based on the reaction of done. Case in point, these ro- However the “cat was let regard to the Voter ID law. pecially Memorial Day and Third, how many of you both the councils of Kingston tors had never been turned out of the bag” by Republi- Romney and Paul Ryan Veterans Day be lined with believe defacing or desecrat- and Wilkes-Barre, they don’t before. can Rep. Mike Turzai when know what is happening, the American flag. ing our nation’s flag violates agree with that statement. A mechanic or anyone he boasted “Voter ID — done but they are so intent on The response from both the U.S. Flag Code? Keep in mind the Ameri- who works on your vehicle — this will allow Mitt Rom- winning at all costs that councils was as though I Fourth, how many believe can flag is a flag of honor and should not do any additional ney to win the state of Penn- they are willing to allow the was talking in an empty the public display of our the only flag to which we owe work on your vehicle unless sylvania.” voting rights of our citizens room. When I reminded nation’s flag is a wonderful allegiance. you give that mechanic per- No mention of stopping to be trampled. them Memorial Day honors way of expressing patrio- I suggest if you believe the mission to do so. A simple voter fraud by Turzai. Just This is an embarrassment our dead, Flag Day honors tism and love of country? lack of not being displayed phone call was all that was a shameless, brazen admit- Fifth, do the mayor and throughout your communi- necessary. tance of the true purpose of Voice your opinion council have any intention ties is sparse begin display- JOYCE ANN PEREZ the Voter ID law. to see that our nation’s flag ing Old Glory from your Mountain Top T his law imposes dif- The Voice welcomes your opinion, primarily on topics covered in will be displayed on the pa- homes, businesses, etc., and ficulties in obtaining iden- the news pages. Letters of 150 words or fewer are ideal. Longer triotic observances or is it a write the community leaders Voter ID law tification for hundreds of letters will be edited. Please include your name, address and phone dead issue? to encourage displaying our is embarrassment thousands of Pennsylvania number for verification. Only the name and town will be printed. The only responses to flag. In an effort to express a multitude of views from a diversity of read- citizens who have been vot- the questions was the “The Stars and Stripes I never thought that ers we request letter writers submit just one letter every two weeks. there would come a time ing honestly for their entire Write: Your Voice, The Citizens’ Voice, 75 N. Washington St., Kingston chairperson stat- forever. ” when I would be embar- lives. Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18701 E-mail: [email protected] ing they would not order J I M W ALSH rassed to say that I was a The Voter ID law targets or fax: 570-821-2247. the residents of Kingston Wilkes-Barre

Street Talk: Do political conventions affect your vote?

“Not at all. I “Absolutely not. “No. I don’t “No. They’re “They definitely don’t go for the It’s all rhetoric.” usually watch mostly just a affect my vote. I’m propaganda.” them.” bunch of for Obama all the P.J. Melvin bad-mouthing.” way.” Jeffrey Sager Pittston Joe Zippilli Kingston Shavertown Jerry Kruszka Patrice Yurek Wilkes-Barre Wyoming

A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Hal Marion Special Projects Adviser MarkAltavilla Advertising Director JoeNealon Circulation Director Judi Shaver Marketing Manager Building Bridges sets goal to unify community Deadline for city employees

By Christopher Hong Staff Writer to accept furloughs looms

After meeting with commu- By Christopher Hong ees eligible for retirement nity members to address the Staff Writer and their dependents. underlying causes of youth Bilski said he isn’t sure if violence, founders of the WILKES-BARRE — Today his union’s contributions Building Bridges group are is the deadline for city work- will be enough to avoid lay- ready to find solutions. ers to accept voluntary fur- offs. “We did not want this to be loughs to help plug a multi- “They haven’t really given a series of town halls and a million-dollar deficit the city us anything with hard num- bunch of stuff in the newspa- is facing, and officials aren’t bers, so I really couldn’t,” per, and then go home,” said expecting a large number of Bilski said. the Rev. Shawn Walker, one of people to step forward. Leighton will not say how the co-founders. “I don’t anticipate it being much money the city aims to The group was founded in an eye-popping number,” save with the furloughs and response to the April shooting said city spokesman Drew retirements. death of 14-year-old Tyler KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE McLaughlin. Representatives from the Winstead. Since then, the Facing a $2 million to Wilkes-Barre Police Benevo- group has held a series of Wilkes-Barre resident Darlene Duggins asks questions at the Building Bridges meeting at the Catholic Youth Center in Wilkes-Barre. $3 million budget deficit, lent Association; the Team- town hall meetings with resi- Mayor Tom Leighton in Octo- sters, which represent most dents, parents and students dents would have to worry suicide. Building Bridges also plans ber asked the city’s nearly 300 of the city’s Department of trying to find the contributing about,” Williams said. “If you “Look at the writing on the to create “Neighborhood Vil- employees to not work during Public Works employees, and factors to issues that “threaten don’t feel safe at school, where wall here,” he said. “Maybe lage Centers” located through- the final six weeks of the year. the Public Service Workers, community well-being,” can you feel safe?” we ought to listen to our out the city that would distrib- If the furloughs do not gener- which represents City Hall including youth violence. The Rev. Walker said 29 of kids.” ute resources and informa- ate enough savings, Leighton employees, did not return The group held five meet- the students said they knew The next step of Building tion, like parenting workshops. said the city will make “dras- calls Thursday seeking com- ings at local high schools for someone who had been offered Bridges is to form “Neighbor- They’d also serve as a central tic” and “permanent” cuts to ment. community members to par- drugs — mainly marijuana — hood Enrichment Coalitions” location where residents can the workforce. City officials said the defi- ticipate, as well as a sixth at school, and 24 said they at to help solve the problems voice concerns. McLaughlin would not say cit is the result of an overall meeting geared specifically one time observed drug use on mentioned in the meetings. The group also asked the how many people have vol- decrease in tax revenue and for students grade six through school grounds. He said that The coalitions would help city for help, including an unteered for the furloughs the $1.7 million owed by for- 12. At those meetings, the top number doesn’t surprise him. build a tighter and closer com- increased police presence in and said an official count mer county tax collector four contributing factors to “Drug use is common and munity. high schools and support to won’t be known until the end Centax. youth violence participants casual, and it’s not the kids “We have lost the village parenting education pro- of day. The original Oct. 31 dead- named were peer pressure that you think,” Walker said. mentality within our commu- grams. The Rev. Walker said Mike Bilski, president of line was extended to Friday and bullying, easy access to Twenty-two said they knew nities,” said co-founder The the group is also creating its the Wilkes-Barre Firefight- because of Hurricane Sandy, drugs and weapons, lack of someone who planned or Rev. Michael Brewster. “Every- executive board and fundrais- ers Association, said one said city spokesman Drew parenting and mentoring, and attempted to commit suicide. one is sort of in their own ing and marketing commit- firefighter volunteered to McLaughlin. Employees boredom among youth. Ten said they had been bul- bubble.” tees. They are currently seek- take a six-week furlough. have until Nov. 15 to accept The 58 students who attend- lied. Brewster said the coalition ing volunteers to join all of the Two others accepted the the retirement incentive. ed the youth meeting in July The Rev. Walker said the would help residents get to coalitions and boards. city’s retirement incentive, also took a survey that asked survey was given out before know each other and unite which offers three years of [email protected] questions about school safety, 570-821-2052, @CVChrisHong the one-week period when existing improvement efforts, [email protected], 570-821-2052, health insurance to employ- violence, suicide and drug use. four area students committed like crime watch groups. @CVChrisHong Walker said the results “floored” him. ALL JUNKCARS & ROOF SPECIALIST YEAR ROUND Thirteen knew someone NEED ANEW ROOF? TRUCKS WANTED Mister “V” Construction who carried weapons at Call Now For Free Estimates! HighestPrices Paid! Specializing in all types of Roofs, school. Sixteen students said Free Pickup. Call Anytime. Siding, Chimneys and Roof Repairs WE ALSO DO FLAT&RUBBER ROOFS Low Prices Free Estimates there is a weapon at their NO PAYMENT UNTIL JOB IS 100% COMPLETE VITO &GINO Lic. &Ins. Over 30 Yrs. Exp. -PA#020810 home. COAL 288-8995 • Forty Fort 829-5133 or 855-0343 Even though more than 75 Time To Make LICENSED &INSURED percent of the students said PA#078508 The Switch? Serving The Wyoming WET BASEMENT?? 2012 they felt safe at school, half George Chervy Coal Valley Since 1970 said they would feel safer with 2, •Basement Waterproofing a metal detector. The Rev. 779-2581 GILROY HIGH BTU, •Foundation Repair •Bilco Doors Walker said that statistic was CONSTRUCTION a telling sign. LOW ASH GEO RESOURCES “They say they feel safe, 829-0239 Free Estimates 466-4695

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B8 || THE SUNDAY VOICE |SUNDAY, JUNE 24, 2012 “NO PERSON IN THE UNITED STATES SHALL, ON THE BASIS OF SEX, BE EXCLUDED FROM PARTICIPATION IN, BE DENIED THE BENEFITS OF, OR BE SUBJECTED TO DISCRIMINATION UNDER ANY EDUCATION PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY RECEIVING FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.” — TITLE IX TITLE IX FIRSTS Notable firsts in women’s sports ONLY IN AMERICA since Title IX was passed in 1972: 1975 Title IX helps our female athletes dominate on world stage JUNKO TABEI here’s an athlete competing in Title IX has its detractors too, of becomes the first the OlympicGames in Lon- course. woman to climb T don next month who typifies Mt. Everest. In an effort to comply with its reg- the American spirit better than any ulations and level the playing field, 1977 BILLIE JEAN KING other in the delegation. some schools have taken the easy JANET GUTH- Hall of Fame tennis player Go ahead. Guess who it is. way out anddecreased opportunities RIE is first wom- “In athletics, because we’re the Michael Phelps?LeBron James? for men — i.e.cutting sports like an to drive in the You’re in the wrong lockerroom. wrestling, men’s gymnastics and Indianapolis 500. most visible, we set the tone. You Try soccer playerAbby Wambach. men’s tennis —rather than increas- 1979 have to see it to be it. And when Here’s why. JONATHAN BOMBULIE ing opportunities for women. LYN LE MAIRE A5-foot-11 striker with the second- COMMENTARY That’s truly unfortunate, but becomes first there’s equality with women’s most goals in U.S. history, the dynam- frankly, now is not the time for that have a culture in the sport like coun- woman to finish icWambach uses any means neces- debate.Now is the time to celebrate sports, and opportunities, it helps tries in Europe andSouthAmerica Ironman triathlon. sary to go over, a ro u n d and through the culture of women’s athletics Title do.Betting on the U.S. to win the next permeate everything else.” — especially through —hesitant IX has helped foster. 1982 men’s WorldCup would be about as defenders on her way to the goal. M aybe you’re one of these guys LOUISIANA smart as betting on the Cleveland TECH wins first “If youknow that freight train is who likes to make fun of the quality Browns to win the next SuperBowl. NCAA women’s coming at you anddoesn’t care if it of play or television ratings for a But in women’s soccer, t h e U.S. is basketball tour- gets hurt,human nature is youget league like the WNBA. Maybe you the dominant force in the world. nament. out of the way,” one of Wambach’s think boys should play with footballs Why is that? oldcoaches told the New York Times andgirls should play withdolls. 1984 Why are our men middle of the last year. That’s fine. This column isn’t VICTORIA road and our women at the top of the Where have all the cowboys gone? going to change your mind. ROCHE of Bel- charts, even when the players grow Where have yougone Joe DiMaggio? But watch an American woman gium is the first up in the same towns,going to the Forget all that.John Wayne is alive like Wambach climb the medal podi- girl to play in the same schools? and well, and she wears No.20in red, um next month in London.See the Little League The biggest reason is the United World Series. white and blue. pride in her eyes.Listen to her sing States empowers women in sports Strong. Independent.Resourceful. the StarSpangledBanner. 1986 like no othercountry. Fierce.Determined. D o so knowing the laws of our NANCY And Title IX, which is celebrating All the adjectives you’d like to land are a bigreason why she got LIEBERMAN JENNIE FINCH its 40th anniversary this week, is a associate with the American spirit there. plays in the Two-time Olympian in softball bigreason why. apply to Wambach on the soccer Idare you not to well up with USBL,becoming Thanks to 37 words written four “I’m so blessed. ... It’s so impor- field. American pride.Idare you. the first woman decades ago,American women have tant to educate and share that Also, she’s a woman, and that’s to play in a pro every opportunity to dominate on important too. Jonathan Bombulie is a Citizens’ basketball game. these opportunities can be taken the world’s stage and make all of us Let’s face it.When it comes to soc- Voice staff writer. He can be reached 1987 at home proud. away if we don’t keep pushing cer, t h e UnitedStates just doesn’t at [email protected]. NBC’s GAYLE and breaking down barriers and SIERENS BY THE NUMBERS becomes the first fighting.” Girls participating in college Girls participating in high Women earning bachelor’s Women earning Master’s female play-by- sports in the U.S.: school sports in the U.S.: degrees in U.S. colleges: degrees in U.S. colleges: play announcer 34,000 300,000 475,000 138,000 for an NFL game. In 1972, In 1972, In 1970-71, In 1970-71, 1992 before Title IX before Title IX before Title IX before Title IX MANON 191,000 3,000,000 732,000 280,000 RHEAUME plays Today Today Today Today goal for the Tam- 562% 1,000% 154% 203% pa Bay Lightning, becoming the Increase Increase Increase Increase first woman to play in an NHL Female athletes have made great strides exhibition game. 1993 FROM PAGE B1 Rosenthal was among the minori- andIwouldgo anddive for them.It JULIE KRONE becomes the first There are countless stories of ty group of girls who were afforded was just so different back then.” LAUREN CHENEY opportunities in sports in high Rosenthal may have played before female jockey struggles and triumphs of women to win a Triple Olympicgold medalist in soccer participating, or at least trying to school.She grew up in Greene,N.Y., Title IX, but hercontributions and and attendedGreene Central High vision as an athlete are the very rea- Crown race “I think about being a young girl participate, in athletics before 1972. aboard Colonial In most cases, women were School. son many are celebrating a law that on recess and the boys saying, ‘Oh, “We had a fabulous sports pro- changed the lives of millions of Affair in the Bel- extremely limited. College athletic mont. you can’t play football. You’re a scholarships for women were gram in high school and that was women. unheard of andhigh school sports, unprecedented at the time,” said In September, Rosenthal will be 1995 girl.’ I can’t imagine actually being while available, were recreational Rosenthal, who played fieldhockey, inducted into the William Smith SHERYL SWOOPES told I can’t play and how I would but often unorganized and sparsely basketball,volleyball, softball and Heron Society’s Hall of HonorClass becomes the first attended. archery.“Ialways considered myself of 2012 as a pre-Title IX inductee. have reacted to that.” an athlete andIwas lucky enough to “Back then, there were very few woman with her Title IX is a portion of the Educa- own line of Nikes. tion Amendments of 1972. It states go to a school that recognized female girls who considered playing sports that no person in the UnitedStates athletes.” afterhigh school,” Rosenthal said. 1997 shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded When Rosenthal arrived at Hobart “A n d now we see all these girls from The first WNBA from participation in, be denied the andWilliam SmithColleges in our own backyard going on to play in game is played. benefits of, or be subjected to dis- upstate New York, opportunities college.It really is amazing.” 2001 were slightly different, although still As athletes,Suchoski andRosen- crimination under any education ASHLEY MAR- available. thal grew up in vastly different program or activity. TIN becomes Interestingly, sports aren’t even “I was the archery team,” said worlds.As women, theirgoals and the first woman mentioned in the law, but it has been Rosenthal, who earned a National competitive energy were all the to score in an regularly applied in the world of ath- Intermediate Championship in same. NCAA football letics ever since.From the day the Archery as well as the New York “I coach fieldhockey twice a week game when she bill was signed by President Nixon, State Indoor Title.“It was just me. to 14-year oldgirls andIasked them kicks three extra women’s athletics, for the better, h ave There wasn’t a team, but the college who knew about Title IX. Only two points for Jack- never been the same. was so accommodating to me. They of 12 girls knew,” Suchoski said. sonville State. PAULA CREAMER “I always say I was born too soon,” set up a target for me to practice on “There was a time when Ididn’t 2006 andIeventually taught some archery know about it either, b u t moving for- Nine-time winner on the LPGA Tour saidBethFlannery Rosenthal of Alaska’s classes.” ward I think it’s one of the best “(Women’s golf has) better play- Shavertown.“Iwas sort of oblivious MICHAELA to Title IX at the time, but Iknew it In addition to archery,Rosenthal things to teach a girl.Ithink we’re HUTCHISON ers and also more depth as a result. was going on.Ijust didn’t know how helped form the women’s basketball doing younggirls a disservice if we becomes the ... Young girls are inspired by the far it wouldgo.Andnow I want to team and was also on the swim don’t share with them where our first girl to win a stop every girl playing sports and say, team. opportunities originated from.” state wrestling many opportunities (Title IX) pres- ‘Do youknow how far we’ve come?’ “On occasion,Iwas on the swim title competing team,” Rosenthal said.“Every now against boys. ents, and this gleam in their young It’s definitely something to be cele- [email protected] and then they would need a diver CV eyes is a wonderful thing to see.” brated.” 570-821-2060 Source: ESPNW

CANDACE PARKER MAYA MOORE MUFFET MCGRAW DANICA PATRICK 2008 WNBAMVP Connecticut’s all-time leading scorer Notre Dame women’s basketball coach NASCAR driver “Title IX is huge for sports but “I couldn’t really imagine growing “Players today expect that it’s “It’s nice that it gives female ath- also it’s helped move our nation to up in a world where someone said, going to be equal. And I think letes more opportunities. ... Any- a place where we can accept women ‘No, you can’t play basketball that’s a really good thing, that they time that people sort of start to put in the workforce as well. It’s opened because you’re a female,’ or can’t do expect they’re going to be treated men and women on the same up a lot of jobs for women. We had something else. There’s just so many the same as the guys. It’s really thought level with sports is a posi- a female run for president.” ways my life would be different.” amazing how far we’ve come.” tive overall.” WB_VOICE/PAGES [A14] | 04/14/12 17:02 | SUPERIMPSC

A14 || THE SUNDAY VOICE |SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012 THE CITIZENS’ VOICE Editorial Board Publishers W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., L arryHoleva, Managing Editor Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty Claire Schechter, Asst. Managing Editor General Manager James Gittens, Editorial Page Editor Donald Farley Dave Janoski, Projects Editor Yet another very simple coincidence

It all must be a coincidence. nice kids from his neighborhood in South Wilkes-Barre Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton says he had noth- for city summer jobs without advertising them. The ing to do with former city administrator and Leighton state Ethics Commission said that was OK because he ally J.J. Murphy landing a lucrative $300-per-hour con- had an underling do the actual hiring. sulting job with the city Parking Authority. Or the time he spent more than $14,000 in city money Sure, Murphy is conducting research to determine if to install high-tech security systems at his house and Our Voice the authority should lease its garages Murphy’s without any public disclosure. The state and parking meters to a private firm Attorney General’s Office said no harm, no foul, and — a study Murphy recommended to Leighton last win- you know the city can be a dangerous place. ter. Or the time he bought three fire engines with $860,000 Just coincidence. from an anonymous donor, but told the press and public And the fact that Murphy touted his brother’s law the money came from the general fund, community firm, Fox Rothschild, to oversee the study? development money and the city’s emergency services Come on, it’s a coincidence. tax. Well, nobody’s been able to figure that one out, but So Leighton reportedly pressures the semi-autono- those engines are still protecting you and your property, mous authority to hire Fox Rothschild, which turns so don’t be ungrateful. around and hires Murphy? Anyway, leasing the garages and meters to a for-profit Just quit with the crazy conspiracy theories already. entity might be good for Wilkes-Barre’s bottom line. Leighton would never play such political games to And it would be awfully mean to suggest that the thou- benefit his political allies. sands of dollars in campaign cash Leighton got from And he’d do everything out in the open just to ensure Fox Rothschild would play any role in his, uh, urging there’s no funny business. the parking authority to hire the firm. Like the time he hired his kids and all those other Don’t be such a cynic.

The winners and losers from this week’s news, as selected by the editors of The Citizens’ Voice. CHEERS to the Children’s Service Center, which observed its 150th anniversary with a :) luncheon last week.

JEERS to Gov. Tom Corbett for telling Penn- sylvanians to blame school boards for property :( tax increases while slashing state spending on public education by millions of dollars and pro- posing more cuts.

CHEERS to Luzerne County Manager Robert :) Lawton for cutting off funding for the Hotel Ster- ling demolition fiasco and keeping firm control over the turmoil at the Elections Bureau. That kind of decisive, dynamic leadership is just what the county courthouse needs.

JEERS to parents whose failure to provide proof of immunizations has local school districts scram- :( bling to meet an April 30 state Department of Health deadline. It’s not just a bookkeeping issue. It’s a health issue and an education issue.

Your Voice: Letters to the editor Keep police station experienced problems with Monsignor Callahan he was called out to area to monsignor a grand cel- son played for the Brooklyn at lake entrance the water and sewer over was great priest hospitals for a sick call, often ebration in the mansions of Dodgers, Moses Fleetwood the years. The taxpayers for those he didn’t know, heaven prepared for those Walker was known as the There will be an impor- have just recently updated The recent passing into and while he himself was who love Him. first African American tant public hearing next eternal life of Monsignor the existing police station, battling serious health is- CHRISTOPHER CALORE to play major league ball. Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the including a new heating and Francis Callahan, pastor of sues. He recently made time Wilkes-Barre That designation was chal- municipal building at Har- air conditioning system. the former St. Therese par- to preside at a blessing cer- lenged by The Society for veys Lake and I urge our Council is proposing mov- ish in South Wilkes-Barre, emony of the Pro-Life Cen- Baseball Research (SABR) residents to attend. Council is difficult for those of us Jackie Robinson: ing the borough secretary ter in Wilkes-Barre. When I A groundbreaker with the finding that Wil- has a plan to move our po- across the street into the who knew and loved him. planned a trip to the Vatican liam Edward White may lice station from its current police station. Monsignor was my boss of in Rome, he shared with me The annual observance have been Major League location at the entrance to Currently, the municipal 12 years and also a friend his best recommendations of Jackie Robinson Day Baseball’s first black player. the lake to a more obscure authority pays all bills, as well as my pastor of 24 so that my pilgrimage ran throughout Major League White appeared in one game location on a private road including heat and electric. years. As a busy priest he al- smoothly. Baseball occurs on April 15. for the Providence Grays off the beaten path at the op- If council makes this move, ways had time for those who He had a special love for On this date, every major in 1879; however, he was posite end of the lake. the taxpayers will begin to phoned or “dropped by” to his brother clergy and the league player wears the considered to be of mixed It is my strong opinion pay heat, electric and main- tell him of their troubles or many sisters of various reli- uniform number 42 in honor race. Racism led to their that the police station tenance on two buildings, life happenings and they lis- gious orders with whom he of Robinson and his tremen- dismissals from baseball. should remain at the main instead of one. Council has tened for his helpful advice. formed lifelong friendships. dous contributions not only Defending himself from an entrance to our community had a deficit the last two Monsignor often shared Every Christmas and Easter, to baseball, but also to our attack by some white men to show police presence. If years and the current 2012 humorous stories from his and in between, Monsignor overall society, civil rights in 1891, Moses Fleetwood one had to pinpoint what budget also has a deficit. younger days. He would took time to publicly thank and diversity. Walker stabbed and killed would represent our “down- Certainly, this move will cre- enjoy an occasional practical those who helped him with Jackie Robinson, of one of his attackers. Walker town” where countless visi- ate a tax increase. joke and there was fun in the church activities. course, will forever be was arrested and charged tors congregate, it would be This idea was not well rectory with the parish as- Next to Monsignor’s first known as the man who with second degree murder; at the Sunset section where thought out, or even pre- sistant, Father James Alco. love, the church, was his broke baseball’s color bar- however, he claimed self-de- we have Grotto Pizza, Jones’ sented at a public meeting. Birthdays played a large love for his brother, nieces rier. As we remember Rob- fense and was acquitted of Pancakes, the Villa Roma, Yet our mayor sent a letter role with Monsignor as he and nephews, and all his inson and his rightful place the charges. Sadly, he came and other nearby establish- in November in response never failed to have a cake, family who meant the world in history, though, I also to believe that whites and ments. to a grant application ques- card and gift for employees to him. call your attention to some blacks would never coexist While we have the state tion and verified that this and friends. He would send Monsignor would have players not as well known peacefully. While there is access area at the other end project had community-wide cards to his Jewish neigh- celebrated his 40th year of — Welday Walker, Moses still much work to be done of the lake, people do not support. I am a minority bors as they celebrated their ordination to the priesthood Fleetwood Walker and Wil- regarding diversity in our congregate there. In fact, it member of council and will holy days. Over the years he on May 13. May God in His liam Edward White. Welday society, Jackie Robinson, is forbidden. They launch not be voting for this fool- would drop everything when goodness and mercy grant Walker played in five games the Walker brothers and their boat, park their vehicle ish move. However, if the for the Toledo Blue Stock- William White all certainly and trailer and go out onto residents don’t show up and Voice your opinion ings in 1884, getting four hits played a role in helping to the lake. This area is also express their opinions at and batting .222. His brother, move it forward. Everyone patrolled by the state. this meeting, you can almost The Voice welcomes your opinion, primarily on topics covered in Moses Fleetwood Walker, ap- should remember that Furthermore, the build- certainly bet that this move the news pages. Letters of 150 words or fewer are ideal. Longer peared in 42 games, hitting throughout the year, not just ing they want to move the will take place. When you letters will be edited. Please include your name, address and phone .261 and scoring 23 runs. It on Jackie Robinson Day. police to has been closed number for verification. Only the name and town will be printed. get your next tax bill, all you wasn’t the Walker brothers’ DAVID A. JOLLEY In an effort to express a multitude of views from a diversity of read- and unused for many years. can do is pay it and stew. statistics that were impor- Author of “A Good Cup of The cost to heat this block ers we request letter writers submit just one letter every two weeks. M ICHELL’E T. B O ICE tant, though, it was the color Coffee … Short-Time Major building constructed on Write: Your Voice, The Citizens’ Voice, 75 N. Washington St., Council member Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18701 E-mail: [email protected] of their skin. More than 60 Leaguers & Their a slab was prohibitive. In Harveys Lake Borough or fax: 570-821-2247. years before Jackie Robin- Claims to Fame “ addition, the building had

Street Talk: Are you excited about the Pennsylvania primary election?

“Very excited. “I am. “I am. Changes “I am. I think “Of course. I’ve Great campaign. Redistricting with voter ID, we’ve got some never missed My best man is mixes it up and redistricting and a really amazing a vote and I do going to win.” brings many new shift in bipartisan candidates this because my candidates.” power.” time.” 4-year-old can’t.” John Sokolowski Ceili Jones Lauren Gorney Larissa Fallon Jan Ashford Wilkes-Barre Wilkes-Barre Glen Lyon Lenox Kingston

A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Hal Marion Special Projects Adviser MarkAltavilla AdvertisingDirector JoeNealon Circulation Director Judi Shaver Marketing Manager NEWS IN BRIEF Teenager shot dead Marino will undergo surgey to remove kidney tumors U.S. Rep. Tom Marino, R-Lycoming Township, announced Thursday that he will have surgery to remove small tumors on his kidney. Marino’s doctors anticipate a full recovery outside W-B residence and the representative will resume a full schedule after a brief recovery period. The surgery will be performed Monday at the By Bob Kalinowski and Bill Wellock Cleveland Clinic under the care of Dr. Jihad Staff Writers Kaouk. Bill Tighe, Marino’s chief of staff, said WILKES-BARRE — A teen- services for residents of the 10th district will age boy was shot dead outside continue as usual. Marino his home Thursday evening “Individuals in need of assistance should contact our while walking back from a Washington office or one of our constituent service centers youth sports facility, police located across the district,” Tighe said. said. — Staff report The boy’s grandmother, who raised him since he was Police investigate break-in at Ashley store a child, identified him as Ashley police are investigating a burglary at the Family Tyler Winstead, 13. Dollar store that took place Wednesday about 11:30 p.m., “I don’t know what’s going police said. on. My grandson was shot Police said two suspects entered the South Main Street and his face was bloody, ” said store by smashing out a glass front door. an emotionally shaken Carol In a press release, investigators didn’t say if anything was Golden at the Hill Street scene stolen during the break-in. Police are reviewing surveillance as medics loaded her grand- footage of the incident. son into an ambulance. Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to Family said Tyler was shot contact Ashley police at 570-822-6995. while walking home after KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE — Bob Kalinowski playing basketball at the A Wilkes-Barre police officer searches for evidence as a pair of sneakers lie Cases ofdeli-style turkey stolen from Hanover Area on the sidewalk at the scene of Thursday night’s shooting. Catholic Youth Center on More than $1,250 of deli-style turkey was recently stolen Washington Street in Wilkes- Initial dispatch reports indi- from Hanover Area High School, Hanover Township police Barre. cated that police were looking said. Tyler, a student at GAR for an unknown shooter who Police said someone cut a lock to an outdoor freezer at Junion/Senior High School left the area in a red car. The the school and stole 10 cases of turkey sometime between was rushed to Geisinger Wyo- shooter remained at large as March 31 and April 2. ming Valley Medical Center of press time. Each case contained four, 10-pound deli-style turkeys that in Plains Township, where he Tyler’s death is the first cost about $125, police said. was pronounced dead, criminal homicide of the year Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact authorities said. in Luzerne County. Hanover Township police at 570-821-1254. Neighbors described Tyler “It’s terrible when you find — Bob Kalinowski as a well-behaved young man out a teenager was shot and who came from a strict, Authorities puzzled by rash of stormgrate thefts killed,” Salavantis said. “We’re church-going family. He lived Thieves continue to pry heavy storm grates from the going to do everything possi- at 121 Hill St., doors away ground and haul them away in Luzerne County, police said. ble to find out who committed from where he was shot. Two storm grates have been reported stolen along the this murder.” At one end of the street is 500 block of Hazle Street in Wilkes-Barre, city police said. The news shocked 57-year- GAR High School, his school. In Hanover Township, which experienced a rash of storm old Frank Galella, whose At the other end was Mount grate thefts from public roads last week, a storm grate has nephew had played basketball Zion Baptist Church, where been reported stolen from Stark Holdings Self Storage at with Tyler on Wednesday. He his family regularly attends. 110 W. St. Mary’s Road. couldn’t understand how any- In between, Tyler’s shoes Last week, township police received at least seven KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE one could want to shoot Tyler. lay on the side of the residen- reports of stolen storm grates. Neighbors react as they watch police investigate “He was the nicest kid you’d tial street that had suddenly Authorities are trying to determine how the thieves are the shooting scene on Hill Street. ever want to meet. I don’t become a crime scene. stealing the 48-by-26-inch grates, which weigh about 200 think they knew who he was,” THE Arline McClure, 68, of Wil- terical. He recognized Tyler’s At 8:45 p.m., Luzerne Coun- pounds. body. ty District Attorney Stefanie Galella said. “You couldn’t Anyone with information may contact Wilkes-Barre police

kes-Barre, was inside Mt. Zion CITIZENS’ meet a nicer family than this Baptist Church practicing McClure couldn’t keep sing- Salavantis confirmed the at 570-826-8106 or Hanover Township police at 570-825- family right there. She had Easter songs with the church ing. She went outside to the news: A teenager was dead. 1254. those kids under her thumb. choir when a woman came in church steps, where she was State police from the Forensic — Bob Kalinowski waiting to learn what hap- Services Unit arrived on This is unbelievable.”

and announced someone had VOICE Another neighbor, Victoria TODAY’S BEST BET been shot outside. pened. Other church mem- scene. Bennett, remembers Tyler as Deena Nicole Cortese of “Jersey “We started praying,” she bers waited outside. As onlookers gathered, polite young student who Shore” will take part at a said. ‘It’s scary, I’ve seen this A man asked what hap- police cordoned off the area

waved at her as he came home “Signings & Sightings” event FRIDAY, happen to so many this way. pened and McClure told him. with crime scene tape. Police from GAR each day. at the Sky Bridge at Mohegan These young kids…” “Tyler, little Tyler?” he at the scene could be seen “He never caused any trou- Sun at Pocono Downs, Plains The woman had parked said. searching the street, lawns ble. Never. It was two doors Township, at 8 tonight with her blue sport utility vehicle “Little Tyler,” McClure and sidewalks for evidence. APRIL down from his house and it an appearance in Breakers as she brought her child to responded. They looked under a dark He was the youngest boy in blue Jeep parked on the street was daylight,” she said. “It’s to follow. For information, visit

the church. When the woman 6, his family, she said. — the vehicle that McClure heartbreaking.” mohegansunpocono.com.

first saw Tyler lying there, 2012 she thought he was playing, “Nobody knows where he said belonged to the woman CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS was shot. It’s bugging me,” — and peered inside with [email protected], 570-821-2055 according to McClure. [email protected], 570-821-2051 It is our policy to correct errors promptly. To report an er- The woman’s kid was hys- McClure said. flashlights. ror, please call the city desk at 821-2056. –3

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 04/06/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 04/05/12 23:10 | SUPERIMPSC KRISTENMULLEN/THECITIZENS’VOICE Jasmine Golden, left, Tyler Winstead’s sister, looks on as neighbor and fam- flowers and candles Friday evening on Hill Street in Wilkes-Barre, where the ilyNofriend Annie answersBryant arranges a memorial of stuffed animals,forballoons, 14-year-oldgrievingGAR student was murdered. family

ning during a walk home earned many sports tro- grandparents would not let Slain teen will IN MEMORY OF TYLER from playing basketball with phies and medals that adorn them come, because they ■ A candlelight vigil for teenage murder victim Tyler friends. the walls of the family’s didn’t complete their chores be laid to rest Winstead is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. today in the 100 Devoutly religious, the home, along with many reli- at home,” Brown said. “That block of Hill Street in Wilkes-Barre, near the boy’s home family was preparing for gious items. is the way the family is run. in his GAR and where he was shot. The event, organized online by a Easter, but now they’re mak- His family has asked he The grandparents had tons GAR graduate, is being billed as a “Peaceful Presence of ing funeral plans for the be buried in his GAR basket- of control over the kids, THE Love and Support” for Tyler. eighth-grade student at GAR ball uniform. The school which was great. It is sad to basketball uniform ■ Tyler’s church, Mount Zion Baptist Church, will host Junior/Senior High School. says it will honor their think that it happened to CITIZENS’ By Bob Kalinowski a moment of silence and prayer Easter Sunday at 11 a.m. “I’m still trying to wrap wish. him.” Staff Writer at GAR Junior/Senior High School, where Tyler was an my head around it,” Carol Tyler’s two older broth- Tyler also excelled in the eighth-grade student. The service will be led by the Rev. Golden said inside the fami- ers, Willie, 16, and Tydus, 15, classroom, said Dana Smith, WILKES-BARRE — He Michael E. Brewster. ly’s Hill Street home Friday also play basketball for the the boy’s science teacher for VOICE was an honor student, avid ■ Funeral services are being arranged by Kniffen morning. “I couldn’t even school. the past two years. church attendee and, many O’Malley Funeral Home, 465 S. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, make the call to the funeral GAR head basketball His lowest-ever test score and are expected to be announced today. say, an innocent teenage home. I made the coroner do Coach Paul Brown said he in her class was a 95, she SATURDAY, murder victim. — Bob Kalinowski it. It’s not right. It’s not never had the chance to said. Basketball was his pas- right. directly coach Tyler, but Tyler was recently named In praising her slain Carol, 60, and her hus- time. Video games were a “We believe in God and knew him and had watched to the “high honors” list the grandson, who dreamed of band, Willie, 66, raised Tyler favorite hobby. his master plan — whether him play. He said he saw school released in March. becoming a scientist, Carol and three of his other sib- APRIL Getting into trouble we understand it or not,” how the grandparents tried “He valued education. He Golden proudly revealed her lings for the past nine years. wasn’t an option for Tyler Willie Golden said. “I just to keep the boys on the cared about his grades. He pet name for the 14-year-old. The family is struggling to Winstead, who was raised hope they catch this person. straight and narrow path. cared about his test scores. 7, “I used to call him my lit- come to grips with how and by strict grandparents who I hope they have the sense to “We have strict rules He always did his home- 2012 tle nerd boy, ” Carol said, why Tyler was gunned down stressed church, chores and turn themselves in.” about missing practice. work,” Smith said. drawing a smile on a day outside his home and near schoolwork before fun and A member of the GAR Sometimes they would miss filled mostly with tears. his church Thursday eve- SEE TRAGEDY, PAGE 4 –3 games, family said. basketball program, Tyler a practice because the WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 04/07/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 04/06/12 22:50 | SUPERIMPSC ‘Intensive’ investigation ongoing in teen’s death ‘My thoughts and By Josh Moyer Staff writer prayers are with

Wilkes-Barre police say Tyler Winstead’s they are intensively investi- family today. This gating the slaying of 14-year- old Tyler Winstead, but no is a tragic incident arrests had been made and a and as a father of motive for the brazen shooting remained unknown Friday. three children myself “We’ve been working around the clock on this case I cannot begin to and will continue,” Luzerne imagine how to cope County District Attorney Ste- fanie Salavantis said. “I just with the loss of a life left the police department, and so young.’ officers have been coming and going. Everybody’s asking for TOM LEIGHTON BOB KALINOWSKI / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE updates around the county. W-B mayor Top: Tyler Winstead’s “This is a 14-year-old, and sister, Tawanna, 12, and everybody is devastated by it.” should know about certain his grandmother, Carol Salavantis said officers information, I would let the Golden, watch televi- spent the day Friday inter- public know. ” sion news coverage of viewing witnesses, including Officers at the Police the teen’s shooting Fri- one of Tyler’s friends. But no Department said there was no day at their Hill Street arrests had been made, with new information to report. home. Right: A memo- the gunman believed to Tyler was shot once in the rial of stuffed animals, remain at large. chest about 7:20 p.m. Thurs- balloons and candles Tyler was shot about 7:20 day, Luzerne County Coroner rest near the scene of p.m. Thursday while walking Bill Lisman said. He was pro- up Hill Street with a friend nounced dead at 7:55 p.m. at Winstead’s murder. KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE after playing basketball at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center on Medical Center in Plains Tragedy: Tyler remembered as ‘respectful, always polite’ Washington Street. Police Township. His death was have not said whether Tyler ruled a homicide after an FROM PAGE 3 Close to home A steady stream of mourn- kid. He found out Tyler was was the intended target of the autopsy Friday morning, Lis- “This is shocking for every- ers came and went from dead while watching the tele- shooting or what they believe man said. Ty ler Winstead, 14, was shot dead near one. It’s important for people to his Wilkes-Barre home on Hill Street while Tyler’s home at 121 Hill St. on vision news about a teenager the motivation was. Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom know this was a kid who was walking backfrom ayouth sports facility Friday. Others came to drop who was shot. He saw Tyler’s Neither Salavantis nor city Leighton offered his condo- Thursday. not a troublemaker, not some- off flowers, balloons, crosses shoes being inspected in the police would release a descrip- lences to Tyler’s family in a

one who mixed with the wrong Street and other items near the crime scene. tion of the shooter, other than statement Friday morning. Mount Zion lles We 2012 crowd. He truly, truly was a Baptist Church place he was killed. The two were supposed to saying one suspect was 5 feet, “My thoughts and prayers South Hill 7, great student,” Smith said. Some in the neighborhood hang out Thursday night, but 10 inches tall and was seen are with Tyler Winstead’s Street Smith’s class was Tyler’s organized a candlelight vigil Dyer had to cancel to baby- driving a maroon vehicle. family today, ” Leighton wrote. last period of the day, and he’d for 7:30 p.m. today on Hill sit. Salavantis also would not “This is a tragic incident and APRIL stay afterward each day to Street, billed as a “Peaceful “It’s really painful. I don’t say whether investigators as a father of three children myself I cannot begin to imag- help Smith push all the chairs Where Tyler Presence of Love and Sup- know how to react. It’s kind believe the shooter acted back under the desks, she was shot port” in memory of the teen. of, like, my first experience alone. ine how to cope with the loss

said. 121 Hill St.: Tyler’s church, Mt. Zion with something like this,” Salavantis said she and of a life so young. Tyler’s home

SATURDAY, “He was always respectful, Baptist Church, announced the stunned teenager said. “I police wanted to confirm the “I want to assure the family always polite,” Smith said. TAMARADUNN /THE CITIZENS’ VOICE it will host a moment of don’t know, it seemed like it accuracy of any eyewitness and the people of Wilkes- “Not just to me, but to his silence and prayer Easter couldn’t be true. It’s really reports before releasing Barre that we will exhaust classmates. An all around brother’s bloodied body lay- Sunday at 11 a.m. at GAR hard to believe. I hope he is in descriptions of the shooter. every resource at our disposal VOICE good kid.” ing outside their home after High School. a better place now. ” Police do not have video of the to bring the perpetrator of Tyler’s sister, Tawanna, 12, a friend rushed inside to tell The teen’s good friend, fel- vehicle or shooter. this crime to justice.” Anyone said her brother told her he the family he was shot. low GAR eighth grader, Des- S TEVE BENNETT, staff writer, con- “The information we with information on the shoot- recently was given an award “He came running in the mond Dyer, 14, stood outside tributed to this report. received through interviews, ing is asked to call police at CITIZENS’ for being one of the “nicest” house. I ran down there and Tyler’s house on Friday, won- that’s sensitive information,” 570-208-4200. kids at school. Tawanna cried saw (Tyler’s) face,” Tawanna dering how such a tragedy [email protected], 570-821-2055 Salavantis said. “If there was as she recalled seeing her recalled. could happen to such a good @cvbobkal a reason I thought the public [email protected], 570-821-2052 4– THE WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 4 - 04/07/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T04] | 04/06/12 23:01 | SUPERIMPSC Counselors will assist returning students The death of a GAR Junior/Senior High School eighth-grader, killed outside his home on the first day of his spring vacation, is a tragedy, Wilkes-Barre Area Superintendent Jeffrey T. Namey said. Wilkes-Barre Area coun- selors, school psychologists and personnel from an out- side agency will be at the high school Tuesday, when classes resume, Namey said Friday. School counselors and personnel from Children’s Service Center, a local men- tal health organization, will meet with students in class- room groups for discus- sions about the shooting and will also meet in small- er groups or individually WARREN RUDA / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE with students who are hav- ing difficulty coping with the death of 14-year-old Tyler Winstead. They will also tell students who to contact if they want to con- tinue speaking with a coun- selor. “I’m sure it will be a diffi- cult day. There will be a lot of tears and a lot of students who are very, very upset. Experts will try to deal with that as best we can,” Namey said. Namey did not know Win- stead but heard from the GAR principal that he was a successful and well-respect- ed student. Winstead’s death is the second violent incident

involving a GAR student THE WARREN RUDA / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE this year. On Feb. 9, a 15-year-old CITIZENS’ student nearly lost his hand in a machete attack. Doctors performed a lengthy surgery to repair the limb, and the VOICE man who allegedly swung the machete, Juan Borbon,

was charged with aggravat- SATURDAY, ed assault, among other charges. Namey said he was not aware of “any connection whatsoever” between the APRIL BOB KALINOWSKI / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE two attacks.

Clockwise, from top: Children leave remembrances at the site of Tyler Win- “For many students this 7,

stead’s murder; the slain teen’s grandmother, Carol Golden, speaks with is going to be extremely dif- 2012 the media outside her Mill Street home; the first tribute, a small stuffed ficult to deal with. We have a dog, is left at the scene; Tyler’s grandfather, Willie Golden, discusses the lot of work to do,” he said. –5 incident Friday. WARREN RUDA / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE — Bill Wellock

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 5 - 04/07/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T05] | 04/06/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC WaCOVER STORrrY ant served in Winstead killing Residents of home searched have not returned since the night of the shooting By Bob Kalinowski Staff Writer

WILKES-BARRE – Wilkes- Barre and state police on Tuesday forcibly entered and searched the Hill Street home of the teenage friend who was with 14-year-old homicide vic- tim Tyler Winstead prior to the deadly shooting last week. Armed with a search war- rant, four officers entered 117 Hill St. and left with several envelopes of evidence after spending about 90 minutes inside and searching the backyard. While they were at the home, a white casket carry- ing Tyler’s body was Winstead wheeled into Mount Zion Baptist Church several doors away, where a public viewing for Tyler was MARK MORAN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE held Tuesday night. State and local authorities executed a search warrant Tues- Winstead when Winstead was shot to death last week in Tyler, an eighth-grade hon- day at 117 Hill St., the home of the friend who was with Tyler Wilkes-Barre. ors student at GAR Junior/ been shot while they were Tyler’s family said Tuesday Senior High School, was found walking home from playing police had not come to them with a gunshot wound to the basketball at the Catholic with any theories about how chest outside 117 Hill St. Youth Center on Washington or why Tyler was killed, doors around 7:20 p.m. Thursday. Street. Tawanna said she ran down from his church and a The teenage friend and his outside and found her blood- block away from his school family, who were seen being ied brother laying on the just before dusk on April 5. interviewed by police at the ground. “My heart goes out to the scene of the shooting last The friend provided scant family, and that’s why I specifi- week, have not returned to 117 details to family before being cally wanted to come here to

2012 Hill St. since the night of the interviewed by police. In an show my support and let them incident, neighbors say. interview with WBRE-TV at know we are doing everything 11, What investigators were the scene, the friend said, “I possible in our office for Tyler looking for, or why they just heard ‘boom.’ I look out and to find justice for Tyler,” APRIL searched the residence, and I see him on the ground. I Salavantis said Tuesday night remained unclear Tuesday didn’t know what to do except while leaving Tyler’s viewing night. A judge has sealed the call police.” with her first assistant and a search warrant application Shortly after Tyler was detective. “for protection of the investi- reported shot, police issued a “We are obtaining leads

WEDNESDAY, gation,” Luzerne County Dis- vague, partial description every day. We don’t want to trict Attorney Stefanie Sala- through Luzerne County 911 jeopardize anything involving vantis said. of two men fleeing in a red this case. We’re dealing with a Salavantis would not com- vehicle, but have since backed 14-year-old who was shot. It’s a VOICE ment on whether investiga- off any official descriptions of devastating time.” MARK MORAN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE tors consider the friend a sus- an alleged shooter. pect in the shooting. had answers at this point in where his body was found. wound to the chest. Multiple neighbors inter- MICHAEL R. SISAK, staff writer, “There are a lot of theories time.” The Luzerne County Last week, Tyler’s sister, viewed since the shooting said contributed to this report. CITIZENS’ out there right now, ” Salavan- Tyler lived with his grand- Coroner’s Office ruled Tawanna, 12, said the friend they were puzzled because tis said. “Believe me, I wish I parents and siblings at 121 Hill Tyler’s death was a homi- “came running in the house” they do not recall hearing any [email protected], 570-821-2055 @cvbobkal could comment and I wish I St., two doors down from cide from a single gunshot to tell the family Tyler had gunshots. 4– THE WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 4 - 04/11/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T04] | 04/10/12 22:26 | SUPERIMPSC MARK MORAN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE Mourners wait in line Tuesday outside MountW-BZion BaptistneighborhoodChurch in Wilkes-Barre for the viewing ofgather14-year-old Tyler Winstead.s to mourn Nearly 700 people attend viewing to say goodbye to Tyler Winstead

By Bob Kalinowski respects during a viewing for can be excused from school to neighbor Frank Galella, 57, as he Staff Writer Tyler, an eighth-grade honors attend today’s funeral at 11 a.m. left the wake. “But, instead, he’s student at GAR Junior/Senior if they provide a note from a in here.” WILKES-BARRE — Tyler Win- High School. guardian. The brotherhood of GAR bas- THE stead lie in the white casket, “It broke my heart,” said fami- While investigators try to ketball meant so much to Tyler, CITIZENS’ wearing his No. 11 GAR basket- ly friend Lamont Diggs, 46, of determine how and why Tyler he will be laid to rest in his bas- ball jersey and a championship Wilkes-Barre. “I held up better died, those who came to his ketball uniform, family said. A medal around his neck. than I thought, but I know come viewing say there was much to basketball signed by teammates The story of the slain teenag- tomorrow, when they close that cherish and remember about laid at Tyler’s feet in the cas- VOICE er’s life played out on the walls of lid for the last time, I’m gonna be how he lived. Raised by his ket. MARK MORAN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE his church as family photos done. They’re gonna have to car- strict grandparents, he was Tyler’s family said they’ve Winstead’s grandparents, Willie and played from video projectors on ry me out.” polite and respectful, excelled in been overwhelmed by the sup- Carol Golden, arrive for the viewing. each side of the coffin. Tyler was found shot last the classroom, liked church and port in the community, from WEDNESDAY, This was the neighborhood Thursday outside his friend’s had a bright future ahead of cards, letters, calls and visits they FUNERAL INFO where the 14-year-old grew up, home at 117 Hill St., a residence him, many said. Never in trou- received and the kind words A viewing for Tyler Winstead will be played with friends, went to between his house and church, ble, he spent most of his time they’ve heard about the fallen held today from 9 a.m. until the start of school, attended church and two doors away from each. playing video games or basket- teen.

homegoing funeral services at 11 a.m. at where he died last Thursday As loved ones came to remem- ball with friends. He was trusted “That saying, the ‘Valley with APRIL Mount Zion Baptist Church at 105 Hill St. from a gunshot wound. On Tues- ber Tyler, his city council and so much the neighbors’ basket- a Heart,’” Tyler’s grandfather, day evening, it’s where friends, school district met for regularly ball hoops were always open to Willie Golden, 66, said Tuesday. Wilkes-Barre Area Superintendent Dr. 11, family and strangers came to say Jeffrey T. Namey said district students may scheduled meetings. Wilkes- him, whether they were home “Before, I took it with a grain of

a sad goodbye. 2012 be excused from school to attend today’s Barre council began with a or not. salt. Now, I see.” Nearly 700 people shuffled funeral at 11 a.m. if they provide a note moment of silence. Wilkes-Barre “I should have come home through Mount Zion Baptist Area Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey today to see him playing basket- [email protected], 570-821-2055 from a guardian. –5 Church on Hill Street to pay their T. Namey said district students ball in my yard,” said saddened @cvbobkal

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 5 - 04/11/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T05] | 04/10/12 23:07 | SUPERIMPSC Teen’s death brings about call to action By Josh Moyer Staff Writer

On a breezy evening in April, a woman burst through the doors of next day and hoped some- Mount Zion Baptist thing good could come out Church while the choir of this, that Tyler’s slay- practiced Easter songs. ing, which remains Someone — Tyler Win- unsolved, could spark uni- stead — had been shot on ty in the community. Hill Street, she said. That call planted the Winstead’s pastor at that seed for Thursday’s “Build- church, the Rev. Michael ing Bridges” event, the Brewster, soon discovered first in a series of six MARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE town-hall style meetings The Revs. Michael Brewster, left, and ShawnWalker are organizing aseries he would have to preside Winstead over the 14-year-old’s designed to address and of town-hall meetings called ‘Building Bridges,’ which they hope will help funeral. A little more than solve problems in Wilkes- stop pointing the finger identify and address problems facing the citizens of Wilkes-Barre. a mile away, Mayor Tom Barre. and ask ourselves how The Revs. Brewster and change will begin. the same way. stepped into a church Leighton prayed inside St. much we’re willing to sac- He and the Rev. Walker “I saw an overwhelming before. But I saw them Nicholas Church and Shawn Walker will moder- rifice to raise the quality ate the meetings, the first will give each group a list sea of people at the funer- come out of their comfort received word on the shoot- of life here in Wilkes- of questions to discuss. al,” the Rev. Brewster said. zone and step over that ing after Mass when he of which will touch on Barre.” youth violence and take City officials, police offi- “A nd I know a good num- line. That says volumes. checked his voicemail. After brief opening cers, faith-based leaders, ber of people had to be “A nd that’s the kind of While the Rev. Brewster place 7 p.m. Thursday in remarks by Leighton, the the Dodson Elementary school officials and com- uncomfortable coming in bridge-building we’re try- prayed with the family at reverends and a crime- munity leaders will make our church, with people of ing to do.” Geisinger, Leighton stayed School library. trend presentation by “We can’t sit back and their way around the room all different faiths and up until midnight and patrolman Phil Myers, [email protected], 570-821-2052 just leave this up to our to listen in on conversa- many who probably never waited for updates. The Thursday’s crowd will be tions, and the small groups two spoke on the phone the city administration and asked to split into small law enforcement,” the Rev. will then present their groups. problems and solutions to Brewster said. “A t this That, the Rev. Brewster ‘At this point, it’s point, it’s really time to the larger group. said, is where he’s hoping “We’re confident this really time to stop can lead to good,” Leigh- pointing the finger and IF YOU GO ton said Tuesday. Brewster said he’s been ask ourselves how The first meeting of “Building Bridges” will take place kicking around an idea for much we’re willing to 7 p.m. Thursday in the Dodson Elementary School these meetings for a while library. now but said Winstead’s sacrifice to raise the The sixth — and final — meeting is not yet scheduled, death acted as a spring- but the other meetings will take place 7 p.m. on the board. quality of life here in following dates: He didn’t want to wait Wilkes-Barre.’ ■ May 31: GAR High School library any longer to make a dif- THE CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE ■ June 7: Heights Elementary School library ference after standing over Hundreds of community members gathered on THE REV. MICHAEL BREWSTER ■ June 14: Coughlin High School library Winstead’s white casket, Hill Street in April to remember 14-year-old GAR Mount Zion Baptist ■ June 19: Meyers High School library and he’s hoping other Memorial Junior/Senior High School student Ty- Church members of the public feel ler Winstead. THE CITIZENS’ AMERICANMADE AT NOBLE FURNITURE RECLINING VOICE

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WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 7 - 05/23/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T07] | 05/22/12 20:46 | SUPERIMPSC VIEWPOINT OUR VOICE Do your part in ‘Building Bridges’

The conversation starts tonight. The first in a series of “Building Bridges” meetings arising from the tragic fatal shooting of 14-year-old Taylor Winstead in Wilkes-Barre begins at 7 p.m. in the library at the Dodson Ele- mentary School, 80 Jones St. The two ministers organiz- ing the meetings, Michael Brewster and Shawn Walker, hope to build a dialogue aimed at improving the quality of life in the city. Following opening remarks by Mayor Tom Leighton and the Revs. Brewster and Walker, city patrolman Phil Myers will present a crime-trend presentation. Then comes your part. Attendees will be split into small groups, assigned a series of questions to discuss and asked to present their problems and solutions to the larger group. “Building Bridges” is aimed at harnessing the solidarity expressed by groups across IF YOU GO the city in the wake of Win- stead’s shooting, which The first meeting of remains the subject of an “Building Bridges” will active police investigation. take place 7p.m. tonight “I saw an overwhelming in the Dodson Elementary sea of people at the funeral,” School library. Brewster told The Citizens’ The sixth — and final Voice this week. “A nd I know — meeting is not yet a good number of people had scheduled, but the other to be uncomfortable coming meetings will take place in our church, with people of 7p.m. on the following all different faiths and many Ex-Rutgers student’s punishment should fit crime dates: who probably never stepped ■ May 31:GARHigh into a church before. But I McClatchy-Tribune News Service verdict, saying it had been fairly reached. School library saw them come out of their But Berman put the case in better perspective Tuesday ■ June 7:Heights comfort zone and step over Even the 30-day prison sentence given to a former Rut- by sentencing Ravi to 30 days imprisonment, three years’ ElementarySchool library that line. That says volumes. gers University student who used a webcam to secretly probation, 300 hours of community service, cyberbullying ■ June 14: Coughlin “A nd that’s the kind of record his roommate having a romantic encounter with counseling, and a $10,000 probation fee. Those arguing Ravi High School library bridge-building we’re trying another man may have been too much. deserved the maximum 10 years in prison forget that he ■ June 19: Meyers High to do.” Many legal experts agree that Dharun Ravi, 20, probably could have avoided any jail time by agreeing to a plea bar- School library If you care about Wilkes- wouldn’t have been charged with any crime had not his vic- gain offered earlier by prosecutors. Barre, about its future and tim, Tyler Clementi, committed suicide two days after the The jury was told it shouldn’t connect Clementi’s suicide the future of its residents — particularly its youth — there September 2010 incident. to the bias charges against Ravi, and that’s what the rest of is no place you should be this evening other than the library Even so, there was no evidence that Ravi’s despicable act the world must do, too. of the Dodson Elementary School. directly triggered Clementi’s death. The assumption is rea- It would be easy to lump this case in with heinous crimes Join the conversation. sonable, but Clementi’s correspondence with a friend indi- where there was no doubt that the victims’ deaths were cal- cated he was despondent because of his mother’s reaction culated by homophobic predators. But the tragic conse- 2012 to his recent admission that he was gay. quences of Ravi’s obvious insensitivity toward Clementi

24, “Mom has basically completely rejected me,” said the 18- appear to have been unintended. Publishers year-old college freshman. Other notes left by Clementi sug- That may not satisfy Clementi’s family, which must live MAY W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., gested he wanted to stop rooming with Ravi, but there was with the fact that he took his own life. It may not satisfy Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty no hint that he was contemplating suicide. those persons who actively and necessarily seek to draw Ravi texted Clementi what he may have meant as an apol- more attention to the bigotry and violence that continue to 821-2045, [email protected] ogy after the webcam incident, saying, “I’ve known you be a fact of life for homosexuals. But it’s what’s right. DonaldFarley — General Manager were gay, and I have no problem with it. ... I don’t want your In a recent Newark Star-Ledger oped column, former

THURSDAY, 207-3449 [email protected] freshman year to be ruined because of a petty misunder- Gov. Jim McGreevey, who shocked the state with his 2004 Larry Holeva — Managing Editor standing.” announcement that he is gay, said it would be counterpro- 821-2064 [email protected] That Ravi would suggest his invasion of Clementi’s pri- ductive to the gay-rights movement to make a scapegoat of Claire Schechter — Asst. Managing Editor VOICE vacy was only a “petty misunderstanding” is outrageous. Ravi. “Homophobia was replete in Clementi’s government, 821-2023 [email protected] But his being cavalier is also what one might expect from church and culture, not just Ravi’s stupidity,” McGreevey JamesGittens — Editorial Page Editor an immature 18-year-old who just months earlier was in said. 821-2053 [email protected] high school. His behavior was callous, but criminal? The culture is changing, but it wasn’t fast enough for Published by CITIZENS’ MarkA.Altavilla — Advertising Director A Middlesex County jury said yes. In March, it convicted Tyler Clementi. His death is not in vain, though. Even as 821-2037 [email protected] Times-Shamrock Newspapers Ravi on 15 criminal counts, including invasion of privacy, the sentencing of Ravi is debated, people are also acknowl- THE Joe Nealon — Circulation Director bias intimidation, and tampering with evidence. Judge edging that much more must be done to stop the biased – 821-2078 [email protected] Glenn Berman refused a defense request to overturn the treatment of gays. 18 WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 18 - 05/24/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T18] | 05/23/12 18:38 | SUPERIMPSC BUILBuilding Bridges DING A BETTER CITY Community searches for solutions in wake of unspeakable tragedy By Bob Kalinowski Staff Writer

WILKES-BARRE — This wasn’t a speech. Five more meetings for As the Rev. Shawn Walker “Building Bridges” remain. sees it, the initial town-hall The sixth — and final — meeting of Wilkes-Barre’s meeting is not yet scheduled, “Building Bridges” program but the other meetings will was the launch of a move- take place 7 p.m. on the ment toward making the city following dates: a stronger, safer place. ■ May 31: GAR High “This is a movement that School library can only be sustained by the ■ June 7: Heights people moving,” Walker said Elementary School library after the two-hour session ■ June 14: Coughlin High Thursday night at Dodson School library Elementary School. “A ■ June 19: Meyers High speech might inspire. Thirty School library seconds later, done. What we just did here is what is going pressure to bullying, lack of to move the movement activities and poor parent- along.” ing. Walker, of First Baptist Then came the hard part: Church on River Street, and the solutions. Organizers the Rev. Michael Brewster, of asked participants to think Mount Zion Baptist Church of specific ways to combat on Hill Street, inspired the the problems and how the idea of the Building Bridges community, the city, the town-hall series following the police, schools and the media April 5 shooting death of 14- could help. year-old Tyler Winstead. Over the course of the next After hundreds came out few sessions, organizers plan to mourn Winstead at a vigil, to discuss proposed solutions Easter service, and then and how to put them in 2012 funeral, the Rev. Brewster action.

25, challenged the community to “These weren’t neighbors stay engaged and promised who came together, sat KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE MAY to organize a series of town together and stayed together. The Rev. Michael Brewster of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Wilkes-Barre hoped those attending halls. We broke them up in groups Thursday’s session would tell others, who would in turn attend future gatherings. The roughly 75 people who of people they didn’t neces- crime prevention Officer they accomplishing some-

FRIDAY, filled the school’s auditorium sarily know, ” Walker Phillip Myers, and city thing, not just listened to STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION Thursday night weren’t only explained. “What happened spokesman Drew McLaugh- rhetoric. That’s what the Thursday’s town hall meeting, organized asked to air the problems in those groups is what we lin. town-hall forums, which will following the homicide of 14-year-old Tyler they see facing the city. They wanted to happen — commu- “Tonight we start a dia- continue through June 19, Winstead, was held seven weeks since the VOICE were challenged to develop nication, real, true, open and logue that will lead to action are all about, he said. eighth-grader at GAR Junior/Senior High possible solutions. Separated honest dialogue. Difference and achieve results,” Leigh- “We’re going to put our School was fatally shot. in nine groups, the residents of opinions, but a similar ton said. minds together and start Authorities continue to investigate the brainstormed for 20 minutes focus. It was awesome.” The Rev. Brewster said he building bridges,” the Rev.

CITIZENS’ April 4 killing on Hill Street, Wilkes-Barre, about the top causes of youth The city was represented hoped participants would tell Brewster said. near Winstead’s home. No arrests have violence. The answers ranged by Mayor Tom Leighton, friends and neighbors they Winstead been made. from drugs, poverty and peer police Chief Gerard Dessoye, attended a meeting where [email protected], 570-821-2055 4– THE WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 4 - 05/25/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T04] | 05/24/12 23:16 | SUPERIMPSC Building Bridges

KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE Community members listen to a speaker during Thursday’s ‘Building Bridges’ meeting at Dodson Elementary School in Wilkes-Barre. INITIAL Victim’s grandparents IMPRESSIONS “I work here. I live here. I coach here. I’m involved here and want to remain involved here.” ‘pleasantly surprised’ — The Rev. Shawn Walker “If the community has a problem, we’re here to By Josh Moyer above her shoulder as if to discuss it. It’s myjobto Staff Writer signal “A lleluia.” see what those problems “I’m surprised by this,” are and what I can do WILKES-BARRE — Willie Willie said after the two-hour about them. Whatever Golden, the grandfather and meeting. “Pleasantly sur- the problem is, we’ll guardian of slain teenager prised. This is a good thing.” make an effort to solve Tyler Winstead, took a swig The Rev. Shawn Walker them.” of his water Thursday and recognized the family during — Wilkes-Barre police Chief surveyed the crowd in the his opening remarks and GerardDessoye warm cafeteria at Dodson commended them for attend- Elementary. ing the meeting. “We simply can’t Like the 75-or-so other “They could have sat home attack everything at residents, he sat at a lunch on the couch, but they came the same time. We’re THE table for the first meeting of out and decided to be part of building a community

“Building Bridges,” a series the solution,” he said. one bridge at a time.” CITIZENS’ of town-hall style meetings The two held hands as the — The Rev. Michael Brewster designed to tackle commu- crowd clapped. nity problems like youth Sometimes, the Rev. Walk- “I was glad to see

violence. He locked hands er said, it takes a tragedy to Tyler’s grandparents VOICE with his wife, Carol, and KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE bring a community together. there. They’ve been smiled slightly at the large Tyler Windstead’s grandparents, Willie and Carol Golden, participated in And Willie hoped maybe verystrong, not just for turnout. this meeting could be the the initial ‘Building Bridges’ meeting Thursday. their friends and their FRIDAY, “I didn’t think this many first step in preventing a families, but for the people would come, to be hon- groups, Carol refused to leave “Drugs — No. 1,” Willie gested more of a police pres- story similar to his grand- community throughout est,” Willie said. her husband’s side. said. “That’s the big one. ence. Another member of the son’s. thisunfortunate tragedy. Willie and Carol took part No one minded. Carol A soft-spoken Carol raised group, a woman with sun- “I wanted to see what peo- For them to be here and MAY in the event, sparked by the leaned on her husband’s her index finger and nodded glasses and a light-blue shirt, ple had to say, ” Willie said. to be part of rebuilding 25, death of their grandchild, shoulder in Group No. 10 as along with Willie. “A lot of said diversity among faculty “Maybe something can be the community after

and participated just like it first talked about the main peer pressure, too,” she add- in the Wilkes-Barre Area done so this doesn’t happen their tragic loss, it 2012 every other resident — with causes of community vio- ed in a whisper. school district was impor- to someone else.” speaks volumes of their one exception. When the pair lence and later addressed When the group began to tant. character.” –5 were assigned to separate solutions. discuss solutions, Willie sug- Carol raised her hand just [email protected], 570-821-2052 — Mayor TomLeighton WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 5 - 05/25/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T05] | 05/24/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC VIEWPOINT OUR VOICE Join the discussion to build a brighter future

Following a strong opening night last week, the series of “Building Bridges” meetings resumes this evening at GAR Memorial Junior/Senior High School. The meetings, organized in reaction to the fatal shooting of 14-year-old Taylor Win- stead, are aimed at finding strategies to improve the qual- ity of life in Wilkes-Barre. Last week’s meeting at the Dodson Elementary School MEETING SCHEDULE gathered 75 to 100 people who All meetings are at broke into groups to discuss 7p.m.: the root causes of youth vio- ■ Tonight:GARHigh lence in the city and possible School library solutions. ■ June 7:Heights The generally agreed-upon ElementarySchool library causes were not novel or sur- ■ June 14: Coughlin prising: Drugs, peer pressure, High School library violent media, a lack of eco- ■ June 19: Meyers High nomic opportunity, ineffective School library parenting. Neither were the proposed solutions: More youth-centered activities, parenting-skills classes, better role models, neighborhood involvement. What was surprising was the diversity of the crowd, their willingness to participate and their passion for their city. At its core, the “Building Bridges” program, ably launched by the Rev. Michael Brewster and the Rev. Shawn Walker, is about making connections — connections Yankees records ruling sets precedent between citizens and city officials, connections between the city’s neighborhoods, connections that cross the lines of The question of whether a private manager had to reveal the International League franchise that it had managed. It ethnicity, economics and religion. bids for a concession contract at publicly owned PNC Field also has signed a lease for that team to play at PNC Field, By drawing in people and ideas from across the city, never was just about who sold hot dogs at baseball games. It which the authority still owns. “Building Bridges” hopes to establish a dialogue that will was about nothing less than the openness and transparency But the decision is an important precedent because of develop not just new programs, but a shared feeling of of the government. the broad principle it establishes, beyond the specific ques- responsibility that can only improve the lives of those who A unanimous opinion issued Wednesday by the state tion of whether the authority and SWB Yankees must dis- call Wilkes-Barre home. Supreme Court, upholding a decision by Lackawanna close the concession bids. The effort is just beginning and there is much work and County Judge Terrence Nealon in a public-records case “Some municipal authorities have come to typify the discussion ahead. brought by The Times-Tribune, firmly establishes that the phenomenon of line-blurring between public and private If you want to be part of that discussion and help build a government can’t hide public information through the con- enterprise, with the Stadium Authority serving as an apt brighter future for the city, be at GAR High School tonight at tractors it hires to conduct public business. example,” the opinion stated. “We do not see that the gov- 7 p.m. In 2009 this newspaper asked the Lackawanna County ernment’s entry into areas which might more comfortably What you encounter there might surprise you. Multi-Purpose Stadium Authority for copies of bids that its be associated with the private sector suggests diminished contracted manager, SWB Yankees LLC, claimed to have cause for openness.” 2012 solicited for the stadium’s concession business. In other words, public records are public records regard- OUR The authority, a public agency, shamefully chose less of whether they are held by the government or a pri- 31, to keep the public in the dark, even though con- vate contractor, even in an unconventional government Publishers VOICE MAY W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., cession revenue was integral to financial opera- enterprise like baseball. The court found that the records tions at the publicly owned stadium. It claimed that solicit- cannot be shielded by claiming them as a proprietary aspect Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty ing bids and awarding contracts for work at a publicly of a private company engaged in government work. 821-2045, [email protected] owned stadium somehow was not a “governmental func- Since the stadium remains publicly owned, disclosure DonaldFarley — General Manager tion” under the law. Yet the authority itself would have issues are likely to arise relative to business transacted by

THURSDAY, 207-3449 [email protected] sought those bids and awarded contracts in the absence of SWB Yankees LLC, which now owns the franchise and Larry Holeva — Managing Editor a private contractor, just as it had done prior to hiring that manages the stadium. 821-2064 [email protected] private manager. The impact is much broader, however. The state School Claire Schechter — Asst. Managing Editor

VOICE Manager SWB Yankees LLC, a consortium of Manda- Boards Association and a group representing private foun- 821-2023 [email protected] lay Baseball Properties and the New York Yankees, hired dations tied to public universities filed friends of the court JamesGittens — Editorial Page Editor a company that is partially owned by the New York Yan- briefs in the case, arguing against disclosure. 821-2053 [email protected] kees, while claiming that it had solicited bids from two Public bodies now know, however, that the invaluable Published by

CITIZENS’ MarkA.Altavilla — Advertising Director others. Right to Know Law precludes them from shielding the con- 821-2037 [email protected] Times-Shamrock The state Office of Open Records, Nealon and the Com- duct of public business through third parties. They not Newspapers THE Joe Nealon — Circulation Director monwealth Court all had ruled in favor of disclosure. only should be prepared to disclose public information to – 821-2078 [email protected] SWB Yankees since has purchased from the authority the public, but be eager to do so. 18 WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 18 - 05/31/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T18] | 05/30/12 17:26 | SUPERIMPSC Faculty plans memorial game

By Bob Kalinowski Staff Writer IF YOU GO WHAT: Memorial Tyler Winstead loved bas- basketball game for Tyler ketball, and faculty in the Winstead — GAR faculty Wilkes-Barre Area School vs. Heights/Dodson District adored him. faculty While thinking of a way WHEN: Friday at 7p.m. to honor the 14-year-old WHERE: GAR homicide victim and help gymnasium,250 S. Grant his family, a group of teach- St., Wilkes-Barre ers decided to organize a COST: Students, $2; memorial basketball game. adults, $5 On Friday night, faculty All proceeds will benefit of GAR Junior/Senior High Winstead’s family. School will take on faculty from Heights and Dodson Simon Peter. elementary schools, which The event will feature bas- feed into GAR. ket raffles and other games “I think it’s going to be a during breaks, including a KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE good show, ” said Dana half-time basketball skills Elijah Yussuf is led from the Luzerne County Wednesday involving the family of homicide victim Smith, Winstead’s science competition. Courthouse in handcuffs shortly after a hearing Tyler Winstead. teacher and one of the Students will also get an event’s organizers. “It’s opportunity to toss a pie in something positive. There is a teacher’s face. Organizers a lot of publicity for things will sell raffle tickets at the Teen murder victim’s that are negative at the door for a chance to “pie a school, but there are so teacher,” Smith said. At the many good things that don’t end of the game, two win- get publicity. There are so ning tickets will be select- many good kids at the ed. neighbor detained school.” Smith hopes the event will Winstead was one of the bring the school district good kids, Smith said, recall- together and also raise mon- ing how he was an excep- ey for Winstead’s family. Few details released after closed-door meeting WHY NOT PUBLIC? tional student who stayed “We wanted to do some- late after every class to push Court officials and thing in his memory. He By Bob Kalinowski chairs back under the COVER STORY attorney with Pennsylvania attorneys involved with loved basketball,” Smith Staff Writer desks. Newspaper Association Wednesday’s closed-door said. “It’s good because it’s a Just a few of the partici- in the Juvenile Act that pro- said she agreed the hearing court hearing about the big majority of the school WILKES-BARRE — The pants taking the court are hibit public disclosure of had to be closed by law, but death of Tyler Winstead getting involved.” investigation into 14-year- Vice Principal Tony Khalifi, cases involving defendants believes attorneys still had pointed to a section in the old Tyler Winstead’s death Dean of Discipline Rob Wat- under the age of 14. some latitude to speak Juvenile Act regarding “Open [email protected], 570-821-2055 finally landed in a court- kins and Athletic Director @cvbobkal Prior to barring waiting about the case, even in gen- proceedings” to defend why room Wednesday, but details media members from the eralities. the hearing, for a 13-year-old, about the case remain hearing, prosecutors said “The proceedings and was not public. shrouded in secrecy. the case to be heard record are closed, but to say The provision states: Elijah Yussuf, the teenage involved a 13-year-old and you can’t say anything goes ■ Juvenile court hearings neighbor did not deal with any of the too far. They probably can’t for defendants ages 12 or 2012 who claimed 10 juvenile crimes that talk about many specifics, 13 are only public when the Winstead allow for a public hearing but I don’t think it goes as 31, charge is: murder, voluntary was gunned — like murder or voluntary far as to impose a gag order manslaughter, aggravated down by a MAY manslaughter — for 12 and on the district attorney’s assault, arson, involuntary drive-by 13-year-olds. office,” said Attorney Melis- deviate sexual intercourse, shooter April “In this case, because the sa Melewsky. kidnapping, rape, robbery, 5, was led age and because of the Winstead died eight robbery of a motor vehicle away from charges, we are not permit- weeks ago today after being and attempt/conspiracy to THURSDAY, court in Winstead ted to either disclose any found with a gunshot commit any of those crime. handcuffs records or hold any open wound to the chest on the ■ All proceedings for after the closed-door hear- proceedings,” Luzerne sidewalk outside Yussuf ’s defendants 14 and older are ing attended by Winstead’s County First Assistant Dis- home at 117 Hill St. in Wil- WARREN RUDA /THE CITIZENS’VOICE VOICE public when the charge is a family. Faculty from GAR High School, Heights and trict Attorney Sam kes-Barre. felony. Prosecutors, defense Dodson Elementary schools, including, from left, Sanguedolce said after- Shortly after, Yussuf told ■ Hearings for any juvenile attorneys and court offi- Dana Smith, Kevin Sickle, Justin Correll, GAR ward. local media a man shot under 12 are not public. cials all declined to com- Winstead and fled in a red Dean of Discipline Rob Watkins, Damian Evanko,

CITIZENS’ Investigators would not ment about the nature of say which charge was dis- car. GAR Vice Principal Tony Khalife and Danielle SOURCE: Pennsylvania Kishbaugh, will team up Friday for a benefit in the hearing or what cussed at the hearing. Juvenile Act occurred, citing strict rules After the hearing, an SEE WINSTEAD, PAGE17 memory of Tyler Winstead. 4– THE WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 4 - 05/31/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T04] | 05/30/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC Winstead: YOU CAN HELP OUR VOICE The second meeting of Building Bridges, a series of six town-hall style meetings Join in the conversation to designed to address and solve community issues, will take place at 7 tonight inside improve the lives of those Documents GAR High School. The death of Tyler Winstead, a former GAR student, acted as who call Wilkes-Barre the catalyst for the program. It was created through the combined efforts of city hall home: attend tonight’s sealed because and the Revs. Michael Brewster and Shawn Walker. The meeting is expected to Building Bridges meeting. last about 90 minutes, and the public is invited to attend. Page 18 of neighbor’s age Available FROM PAGE 4 OF NEW withina25 mileradius Yussuf said he and Win- DELIVERY BEDDING! of all Beiter’s stead, an honors student at Home Centers GAR Junior/Senior High OF NEW on bedding School, had been walking SET-UPBEDDING! purchases home from the Catholic $399.00 and up. Youth Center. In the follow- ing days, investigators shied OF OLD away from the drive-by theo- FREE HAUL-AWAY ry and centered their focus BEDDING! on Yussuf ’s home, executing two search warrants and Therapedic® “Malibu” Foam Encased Englander® “Beiter’s Exclusive” CommercialDuty seizing evidence. The family later moved out. Prosecutors still have not KING SIZE BEDDING 504 COIL BEDDING said what they believe hap- pened. 504 HEAVY GAUGE COIL TEFLON® TREATED COVERS “Just because of the pub- lic interest involved doesn’t •Euro Topdesign is madetoprovidethe most comfortable, •Stain resistantTeflon®coated Damask® covers mean we can just not listen relaxing and luxurious sleeping experiencepossible •Noflip means younever have the cumbersome task of flipping your bedding again! •You’ll feel like you are sleeping on top of abig, fluffy cloud E to what is right here in our XCLUSIV •Heavy gauge coilsfor more support and durablecovers E ATED •Foam encased (law) books. This section NON-PROR states, due to his age, due to 12 YEAR the charges, we must make WARRANTY sure the hearing is closed $ 00 $ 00 and records are sealed,” SPECIAL! KING SET TWINSET FULLSET KING SET QUEEN SET Luzerne County District KING 588 TP2080 $ 00 $ 00 $ 00 399 299 333 699 Attorney Stefanie Salavan- tis said. Therapedic® “Jasmine” FIRM SuperEconomicalEnglander® “Rosemont” After the hearing, a hand- cuffed Yussuf was escorted to a vehicle and was believed 460 COIL BEDDING 312COIL BEDDING to have been taken to a juve- nile detention center. NO FLIP DESIGN NO FLIP DESIGN Prior to the hearing, Sala- vantis, her top assistant, her •Durable fabric coverover acomfy quilted pillow top •Namebrand bedding chief detective, and others •Noflip design means never having the cumbersome •Matched set task of flipping your bedding again! met with Winstead’s grand- •Great forthe kids room! •Angreatchoiceatanaffordableprice! parents, his guardians Wil- lie and Carol Golden, in her office. They then gathered TWINSIZE DATION outside Courtroom 4 for a $ 00 FOUN $ 00 ! 00 while before entering. Also LL SPECIAL FULLSET $ TWIN spotted entering the court- FU 333 TP2048 79 99 MATTRESS room were Cheryl Sobieski- THE Reedy, the juvenile court WITHAPPROVED CREDIT AND public defender, and promi- T MINIMUM $999.00 PURCHASE

ES CITIZENS’ % INTER WHEN FINANCED WITHWELLS nent area defense attorney FINANCING FARGO.MINIMUM MONTHLY Demetrius Fannick. 0 FOR ONEYEARPAYMENTS REQUIRED.*SEE BELOW FOR DISCLOSUREINFORMATION. Reached later, Fannick said he was prohibited from VOICE saying why he was there or Visitour website! www.beiters.com 370 East EndCentre what happened. “The statute prohibits me Wilkes-Barre from commenting,” Fannick (570) 208-2330 THURSDAY, said. Mon. thru Sat. 9-8 The Goldens also declined Sun. 12-5 comment later at their Hill BEITER’S Street home, two doors away MAY from where Winstead was HOME CENTER

found shot. 31, “In due time,” Willie Gold- en said. “In due time.” *THE BEITERʼS CREDIT CARD IS ISSUED BY WELLS FARGO FINANCIAL NATIONAL BANK. SPECIAL TERMS APPLYTOQUALIFYING PURCHASES CHARGED WITH APPROVED CREDIT.REGULAR MINIMUM MONTHLYPAYMENTS ARE 2012 REQUIRED DURING PROMOTIONAL (SPECIAL TERMS) PERIOD. INTEREST WILL BE CHARGED TO YOUR ACCOUNT FROM THE PURCHASE DATE AT THE APR FOR PURCHASES IF THE PURCHASE BALANCE IS NOT PAID IN FULL WITHIN PROMOTIONAL PERIOD. FOR NEWLYOPENED ACCOUNTS, THE REGULAR APR IS 27.99%. THIS APR MAYVARYWITH THE MARKET BASED ON THE U.S. PRIME RATE AND IS GIVEN AS OF 01/10/2012. IF YOU ARE CHARGED INTEREST IN [email protected], 570-821-2055 ANY BILLING CYCLE, THE MINIMUM INTEREST CHARGE WILL BE $1.00. VISIT BEITERʼS OR CALL (570) 326-2073, EXT.216 OR 1-800-326-9738 FOR DETAILS. PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE SALES TAXORAPPLYTOPRIOR SALES. NOT –1 @cvbobkal RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS IF NOTIFICATION OF ERROR IS POSTED WITHIN THE TIME FRAME OF PROMOTION. PRODUCTS MAYVARYFROM PICTURE. OPTIONAL PROFESSIONAL DELIVERYAVAILABLE. SOME ITEMS

MAYNOT BE AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS. 7 WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 17 - 05/31/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T17] | 05/30/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC Ideas abound at Building Bridges meeting At second gathering, community members brainstorm solutions to city’s teen violence

By Josh Moyer all I needed to hear.” Staff Writer Mann leaned back in his library chair and spoke softly WILKES-BARRE — Carl- — but passionately — during ton Mann spoke slowly the small group meeting. All Thursday as he crossed his youth violence, he said, can orange-and-white Air Jor- be traced back to one ele- dans and discussed growing ment: Family. If drugs up without a father around remain a pressing issue, it’s the Philadelphia projects. only because a child doesn’t The 29-year-old Wilkes- have a positive role model. Barre resident acknowledged Ditto for violence. he took a wrong turn in his “Yup, yup,” Winstead’s youth, heading down a path grandfather, Willie Golden, paved with drugs and vio- said, turning to Mann with a lence, but he’s since become a nod. devoted family man. He was As Mann folded his hands one of more than 90 residents over his long jean shorts and who attended Thursday’s sec- listened to the group, the Rev. ond “Building Bridges” meet- Walker surveyed the crowd. ing at GAR Junior/Senior It was notably larger than the KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE High School, and he echoed a first, and the Rev. Walker Facilitator Carmen Kahiu works with a group of GAR Junior/Senior High School in Wilkes-Barre sentiment shared by many paused for a moment when community members during the Building Bridges on Thursday. It was the second of six community who came for the first time. asked why it expanded. community building meeting held in the library at meetings exploring ways to improve the city. “I may not save 100 kids,” He furrowed his brow he said. “But if I save one, slightly and then smiled. QUOTED that’s pretty good. That’s why “People are interested in FUTURE MEETINGS I’m here.” the movement,” he said. “It’s a good feeling to see so many people coming together The second meeting fol- “We’re not seeing this as a Four more meetings for to help make this a better community. And they’re really lowed an agenda similar to series of meetings but as a “Building Bridges” remain. enthused. And when they’re enthused, it makes me enthused.” the first. The Revs. Shawn let’s-get-something-done The sixth — and final — — Maureen Lavelle, Wilkes-Barre councilwoman Walker and Michael Brews- movement. This is something meeting is not yet scheduled, ter addressed the crowd, people have been able to latch but the other meetings will “I hear it all the time, ‘I’m going to get out of the city. The police Officer Phil Myers onto, to use this Building take place 7 p.m. on the following dates: city’s in trouble. Things aren’t the way they used to be.’ And offered a Powerpoint presen- Bridges campaign to finally ■ June 7: Solomon Plains Junior High School library* we can cut and run to the Back Mountain, we can cut and run tation, and residents then do something and make a dif- ■ June 14: Coughlin High School library to Mountain Top, or we can choose to stay and fight. That’s broke into 10 small groups to ference.” ■ June 19: Meyers High School library the choice I’ve made. That is a choice that I think collectively discuss what leads to youth *Changed from Heights Elementary School library we have made — or you would not be here tonight.” violence and how to stop it. [email protected], 570-821-2052 — The Rev.Shawn Walker New faces packed GAR’s library, a place 14-year-old “I don’t plan to leave here. Like Pastor Walker, I plan to fight. shooting victim Tyler Win- I plan to see our quality of life reflect the beauty of this area.” stead would often visit. His — The Rev. Michael Brewster aunt, Janice Watson-Holmes, came for the first time to bet- “You can’t do this by yourself. We can’t do it by ourselves, ter understand where such as the police. There has to be a working relationship between violence originates. the community and everybody to be successful.” “It was more than what I — Wilkes-Barre police Officer Phil Myers expected,” Watson-Holmes THE

said, following the two-hour COMMUNITY’S VOICE CITIZENS’ meeting. “I wish we actually had more time.” Ten small groups on Thursday discussed the biggest issues Wilkes-Barre resident leading to youth violence. After each group narrowed those

Quinn Johnson, 24, a relative issues on a top 3 list, they shared that with the overall group. VOICE of February’s GAR machete The issues that made those top 3 lists most often included: victim Marquis Allen, said he ■ Parenting came to help solve the issue ■ Peer Pressure of youth violence. Another ■ Lack of Morals FRIDAY, resident, Wilkes-Barre native Those small groups met again and discussed solutions to Bill Montgomery, said he those issues. Some of those suggestions included: swore to attend once his wife ■ Creating a community center JUNE raved about the first meeting. ■ Hosting more block parties

Montgomery ended up call- ■ Taking children on field trips to prisons 1, KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE ing friends, such as Mann, ■ Establishing mentoring programs 2012 and urged them to show. From left, Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton and the Revs. Shawn Walker ■ Creating trading cards of local police officers that could “I heard this was about the and Michael Brewster break the crowd into work groups during the Build- be traded among younger children to create a connection –3 kids,” Mann added. “That’s ing Bridges community building meeting. ■ Creating more activities for the youth WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 06/01/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 05/31/12 23:14 | SUPERIMPSC Building Bridges ready W-B Area school board approves to hear from area teens budget with slight tax increase By Peter Cameron age property owner and will solicitor,” Wendolowski By Matt Bufano Staff Writer generate about $400,000. said. Staff Writer To help plug a $5 million The school district does WILKES-BARRE — In the deficit, the school district not have to bid out the posi- WILKES-BARRE — The end, taxes will go up, if ever will not be filling the posi- tion because it is considered “Building Bridges” series of so slightly. tions of seven retiring teach- a professional service, Toole meetings concluded its adult The Wilkes-Barre Area ers for a savings of about said. sessions Thursday at Cough- school board voted to $750,000, and took about The audit of Lupas’ and lin High School with more approve its $100 million final $2 million from its rainy day Wendolowski’s billing discussion of how to stop budget, including a small tax fund. About $5.5 million records, ordered by the teen violence. increase, for the 2012-2013 remains in the fund. school district after Lupas The group is now prepar- school year at a special meet- Seventh- and eight-grade was alleged to be running a ing for its final meeting — the ing Thursday. The prelimi- sports were also brought phony investment scheme, first meeting among teenage KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE The Rev. Shawn Walker, left, and the Rev. Michael nary budget approved last back at a cost of $100,000. should be finished by next students. month included no tax Brewster chart ideas during the Building Bridges In a hot button topic, busi- month, Toole said. “A s we’ve been going on, increase. ness Manager Leonard In other news, the board meeting at Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre. we’ve seen more youth get- The dissents came from Przywara said the district voted to give the required ting involved, but now they’re dedicated to finding solutions Lynn Evans, Christine Kat- has budgeted $200,000 for one-year notice to withdraw going to tell us the truth and to reducing teen violence. sock, James Susek and Pres- legal fees, presumably to from the Northeast Pennsyl- tell us what should be done to “We want to prove that this ident Maryanne Toole. Raymond Wendolowski, vania School Districts Health make the community safer,” is something that’s not going The Wilkes-Barre Area who currently is in negotia- Trust, a group of 11 public said police Officer Phil authority figures. to fizzle or fall by the side,” School District raised prop- tions with the board to be school entities pooled togeth- Myers, who has attended Holding the meeting with the Rev. Brewster said. “We’re erty taxes by 1 percent, but the sole attorney for the dis- er to increase their health each meeting. teenagers is an important going to be working tirelessly could have gone as high as trict after serving under care bargaining power, j oin- The Rev. Michael Brewster step, the Rev. Brewster said, from now until September, 2.4 percent by state law. The Anthony J. Lupas as the ing at least five others. announced that the meeting as it will continue to show when we unveil our strate- increase will amount to assistant. for middle and high school everyone the community is gies and solutions.” about $10 more for the aver- “The idea is to have one [email protected], 570-821-2110 students will be July 26 at the Wyoming Valley Catholic Youth Center, and will fea- ture incentives to get teens to attend. COMPLETE POOL Among them is a gift bas- TODAYTHRU ket containing at least $50 PACKAGE FROM worth of rewards for the first SUNDAY 25 students who register and $899 POOLPOOL BUYERBUYERS!S! stay for the meeting. Also, each of the kids in the group whose strategy is chosen as ABOVE GROUND POOLS INGROUND POOLS the one put into use will •STEEL •STAINLESS STEEL •ALUMINUM ONE PIECE FIBERGLASS receive a $100 Visa gift card. INGROUND “The topic (of reducing teen violence) is going to stay POOLS the same, but we’re bringing a lot more energy to the next FROM meeting,” the Rev. Brewster $ said. The Rev. Brewster said “80 14,999 to 100 students being there would be exceptional” and that the ideas the students want to see implemented 2012 could be the most crucial

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BREAKING NEWS AT citizensvoice.com July 15, 2012 A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Let’s talk Little League,big games Secretary of State Clinton South W-B, Back Mountain American advance meets with Egyptian leader. in quest for berth in state tournament. PAGE A8 PAGE B1 BOTHE FREEAHREPRORTDWASN’T

M ARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’VOICE The Rev. Michael Brewster, one of the driving forces behind ‘Building Bridges,’ hopes to hear from middle KEPTIN LOOP and high school students at the July 26 meeting. Officials, aware of impending charges against Community Sandusky, allowed Paterno a record-setting hurrah effort appeals By Michael R. Sisak STAFF WRITER Days before Joe Paterno’s record- to area’s kids setting 409th win last October, as an unusually early snowstorm swept toward Penn State, senior officials Organizer hopes more young people there learned the bombshell news will attend next scheduled session that former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky would soon be By Bob Kalinowski arrested for a string of heinous sex STAFF WRITER assaults on children. With three more young The university’s general counsel lives lost to gunfire in Plym- at the time, Cynthia Baldwin, outh, the Rev. Michael Brews- briefed the officials — president ter senses the anger, frustra- Graham Spanier, athletic director tion and fear building in the THE VICTIMS Tim Curley and board of trustees community. He hears the Tyler Winstead, 14 chairman Steve Garban — on the complaints about youth vio- Wilkes-Barre expected charges and the simulta- lence and demands for safer neous allegations of a decade-long neighborhoods. Winstead was fatally shot cover-up involving Curley and The Wilkes-Barre minister April 5 near his Hill Street another top official, an internal has a demand himself: help home. His death was ruled investigation found. him become part of the solu- a homicide,but prosecu- Spanier downplayed the serious- tion. tors have declined to reveal information about the case ness of the cover-up allegations, Following the shooting because it involves a 13- according to a report on the investi- death of a 14-year-old just feet year-old defendant.Win- gation released Thursday, and sent from his church, the Rev. Garban a draft of a statement stead’s death inspired the Brewster spearheaded a cam- Building Bridges project. expressing the university’s “uncon- paign called “Building Bridg- ditional support” for Curley and the es” to address and combat Lisa Abaunza, 15 other accused official, senior vice youth violence. The triple- Duryea president Gary Schultz. homicide in Plymouth, he Nicolas Maldonado, 17 Garban, who as a senior vice says, is proof the task will Stroudsburg president at the university had not be easy, but is desperately Bradley Swartwood, 21 worked directly under Spanier, needed. Nanticoke alerted just two of the 31 other “Building Bridges is here members of the board of trustees and is here at the right time. Abaunza, Maldonado,and over the next three days. The rest It is in many ways divine in Swartwood were killed learned of the arrests after they light of what happened prior July7during abotched happened, on Nov. 4 and 5, the and what is happening now, ” drug deal at 401 First St. report said. the Rev. Brewster said last in Plymouth. Police say Garban’s delay in informing the week. “We need to come up a 16-year-old gunman full board of the impending arrests with some solutions. We have opened fire on aman,then of Sandusky, Curley and Schultz — to rally together.” shot everyone in the house in an attempt to eliminate coupled with his decision last April Hundreds of area resi- witnesses. Maldonado’s not to alert the board of the under- dents, mostly adults, have lying grand jury investigation for brother, Danny, 19, suffered a critical head wound. nearly a month — hampered the CONTINUED ON PAGE A6 board’s ability to prepare for the charges and smacked of the culture MATT ROURKE / ASSOCIATED PRESS CONTINUED ON PAGE A4 Penn State board of trustees member Steve Garban arrives for a meeting Friday at the university’s Worthington Scranton campus. Paterno got richer pact amid inquiry

By Jo Becker with the timing something of a sur- NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE prise because the contract was not set In January 2011, Joe Paterno to expire until the end of 2012, accord- learned that prosecutors were ing to documents and people with KRISTENMULLEN / THE CITIZENS’VOICE investigating his longtime assis- knowledge of the discussions. By Assistant county engineer Chris Belleman shows off tant coach Jerry Sandusky for August, Paterno and the university’s the courthouse’s completed northwest dome. sexually assaulting young boys. president, both of whom were by then Soon, Paterno had testified embroiled in the Sandusky investiga- Courthouse dome before a grand jury, and the rough tion, hammered out an agreement. outlines of what would become a The coach was to be paid $3 mil- giant scandal had been pub- lion, if and when he agreed to retire receives makeover lished in a local newspaper. at the end of the 2011 season. Inter- That same month, Paterno, est-free loans totaling $350,000 that By Michael P. Buffer Then again, maybe you the football coach at the university had made to Paterno STAFF WRITER didn’t notice the change from Penn State, began over the years would be forgiven. WILKES-BARRE — As white to gray. what would become He’d have the use of the university’s the $5 million project to “I thought we were going an aggressive nego- private plane and a luxury box at restore and repair the exte- to get flooded with phone tiation with his Beaver Stadium for him and his fam- rior of the 103-year-old calls,” Assistant County superiors to ily to use over the next 25 years. Luzerne County Courthouse Engineer Chris Belleman amend his wraps up, you may have said. “We have had no calls. contract, CONTINUED ON PAGE A5 noticed the color of main I’m really surprised.” dome and four small domes  ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE is changing. CONTINUED ON PAGE A12

WINNER OF THE 2012 KEYSTONE PRESS SWEEPSTAKES AWARD — SEE CITIZENSVOICE.COM/AWARDS © 2012 The Citizens’ Voice SUNDAY WEATHER BIRTHDAYS C8 EDITORIAL A10 OBITUARIES B10-11 Plentyofappeal High 87º BRIDES C3 HOROSCOPE C7 PUBLIC SQUARE C1 Subscribe Retailer: There’s a lot Low 67º CLASSIFIED D1-24 LOCAL/STATE A3 STOCKS H6-7 to the Voice to like at Centerpoint. 570-821-2010 Unsettled A2 CROSSWORD C7 LOTTERY A2 WORLD/NATION A8 PAGE H1 WB_VOICE/PAGES [A06] | 07/14/12 22:20 | SUPERIMPSC

A6 || THE SUNDAY VOICE |SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2012

Block party with a message Victims’ family, friends invited to participate

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A1

attended the program’s five town hall meetings the past two months, brainstorming about the roots of teenage violence and ways to coun- teract the trend. The next meeting, set for 7 p.m. July 26 at the Catholic Youth Center in Wilkes-Barre, is geared toward youths themselves. Middle and high school students are invited to share their thoughts about the problems and what they think could be done. “We want to hear what they’re experiencing, what KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE they’re seeing in our neigh- borhood so we can get more Above: Event organizer of a pulse of what the prob- Darlene Duggins, of Wil- lems may be, as they see it,” kes-Barre, leads people said the Rev. Brewster, pastor in a dance during the of Mount Zion Baptist ‘United We Stand Divided Church on Hill Street, Wil- We Fall’ drug-free block MARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE kes-Barre. “It’s the first time, party on Public Square in The Rev. Michael Brewster believes the community must come together to over- really, since we began that we Wilkes-Barre on Satur- come the challenges it faces. are able to hear from the kids day. Left: DJ MO, Michael themselves.” bigger picture,” the Rev. Onley, of Wilkes-Barre, The inspiration for Build- Brewster said. “We are not spins tunes. The free ing Bridges was the April 5 ignorant to the realities of event included dancing, shooting death of Tyler Win- the challenges we have ahead contests and food. stead, an eighth-grader at of us, but we are not intimi- GAR Junior/Senior High dated by those challenges. School who was killed on Hill We can’t allow naysayers to May family plans to build Street, just doors away from discourage us from the larg- his home and church. At his Winstead Abaunza Maldonado Swartwood er pursuit of a thriving com- standing-room-only funeral, munity, a safe community for state-of-the-art bakery the Rev. Brewster challenged wounded from a gunshot our families here in Wilkes- mourners to stay motivated blast to the head. Barre.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE A3 Bower and father-in-law and support his efforts. Family and friends of the Reaching youths and fami- Joseph Bower have been in the lies that want to be helped is In addition to being Suno- Building Bridges was soon victims are encouraged to donut business for more than the easy part. Connecting co and Gulf distributors, the born and the need for the help with the cause, the Rev. IF YOU GO: The next ‘Build- 25 years, starting out as Mr. with those without positives Mays have 10 convenience program became clearer, the Brewster said. ing Bridges’ meeting will be Donut franchisees and now influences in their lives is stores throughout Northeast- Rev. Brewster said, as youth “We would like to let them held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July owning Dunkin’ Donuts res- tougher and, he said, they are ern Pennsylvania. violence continued: Two 17- know we are thinking about 26 at the Wyoming Valley taurants through Bowers the ones who need help the “I said we needed to diver- year-olds were shot June 13 them, praying for them and Catholic Youth Center, 36 S. Donuts Inc. of Pottsville. It was most. sify a little bit,” come up with in a playground under the we welcome them to link Washington St., Wilkes-Barre. through them Eric May said “It’s going to take the eyes something that could either South Street Bridge in Wil- arms with Building Bridges he learned to be staunch about hoods and change lives, the of teachers, the eyes of resi- be paired with the conve- kes-Barre. A 22-year-old suf- and help us to address this the freshness of products. Rev. Brewster said. dents, looking out for people nience stores or be freestand- fered a gunshot wound to the issue at hand. We need By the way, Heather and Just a few proposed solu- who are struggling. We need ing, Eric May said. head during a broad-daylight them,” the Rev. Brewster Jason met in the most appro- tions are creating small com- to renew hope and help them,” “With a little luck and shooting July 6 on Jay Street, said. “We know there is going priate of settings: a Dunkin’ munity centers throughout the Rev. Brewster said. research, we ended up with Wilkes-Barre. The next day, to be a lot of energy they are Donuts franchisee conven- Wilkes-Barre, establishing Building Bridges leaders Dunkin’ Donuts,” he said. three youths were fatally shot going to have. What better tion in Las Vegas. “safe houses” for youth who are trying to develop a series The Mays plan to build a at 401 First St. in Plymouth way to direct or channel that Eric May said the family is feel threatened and hosting of benchmarks to measure new 4,000- to 5,000-square- during a botched drug deal. energy, and honor the life and considering opening more free activities for youths to the success of the organiza- foot, state-of-the-art bakery to Those killed were: Lisa legacy of their loved ones, by restaurants, but haven’t keep them off the streets, he tion, but it’s already clear it’s further improve the business. Abaunza, 15, of Duryea, linking arms and partnering picked the locations yet. said. off to a good start, the Rev. Eric May said they bake and Nicolas Maldonado, 17, of with Building Bridges and “We’ve got a couple on the Have any ideas? The Rev. Brewster said. deliver the doughnuts “mul- Stroudsburg, and Bradley other like organization who horizon right now, ” he said. Brewster welcomes them all. “We feel we are already suc- tiple times a day, ” taking Swartwood, 21, of Nanticoke. are seeking to prevent such As with any bold project cessful in that we are bringing pride in their freshness. [email protected] A fourth victim, Danny Mal- tragedies from happening to CV like this, Building Bridges a community together to Heather’s husband Jason 570-821-2072 donado II, 19, was critically other families in the future.” Following July’s session, certainly has its critics who talk,” the Rev. Brewster said. the organizers of Building think its goals are naive or “That is an enormous feat Bridges will deliver a presen- unattainable, the Rev. Brews- right there, to have the kind of tation in Wilkes-Barre to ter acknowledges. momentum we’ve had week to update the community on its “You’re always going to week, and not seeing it die progress and proposed solu- have people who will be your out.” tions. The goal is to change naysayers, who will not be POOL SALE! [email protected] POOL SALE! the culture, change neighbor- able to see hope or see the CV 570-821-2055, @cvbobkal One PieceFiberglass Pools SAVE TO $3,000

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Call for Details Above Ground Starting at $75 Pool Packages Contact Dave Nat - [email protected] In-Ground Starting at $150 Available 866.758.1929 In-Ground Pool Walks Restoration with Stamped Concrete Teens take oncommunity cause NEWS IN BRIEF Miranda Lambert concert canceled; refunds available Citing scheduling conflicts, Live Nation has canceled the Building Bridges Miranda Lambert concert at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain. program seeks ideas Lambert had been scheduled to perform with Little Big Town and Thomas Rhett at the venue July 7, but the concert from area students was postponed because of illness. Live Nation announced Thursday that the country singer “is regrettably unable to make By BobKalinowski up her performance” and apologized for any inconvenience Staff Writer the cancellation might cause. Refunds are available at the point of purchase. WILKES-BARRE — After months of speculation by Business Improvement District inW-B renewed concerned adults about Wilkes-Barre City Council renewed the city’s downtown causes of youth violence as Business Improvement District at a brief special meeting part of the Building Bridges Wednesday. program, the kids of the Wil- The city first designated such a district five years ago. kes-Barre area finally had Commercial property owners in the district pay a fee that goes their say Thursday night. toward improving public services downtown, overseen by What young people see as Diamond City Partnership. the problems and the possible Facade improvement and extra security have been the focus solutions was all that mat- of the program, city spokesman Drew McLaughlin said. tered at the final Building Next year, the group that oversees the program will spend Bridges work session held at about $51,000 on marketing and recruitment, according to a the Catholic Youth Center. KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE proposed budget presented at a May meeting about the district. The youths had the floor, Adults sit in the Catholic Youth Center bleachers Thursday as middle —Bill Wellock literally. Roughly 50 middle and high students participate in the final Building Bridges work session W-B Crime Watch will discuss safety devices and high school students Thursday. filled the gymnasium floor The Wilkes-Barre Crime Watch Coalition will offer information with a group of moderators, on defibrillators and fire extinguishers at upcoming meetings. while the adults were mere The meeting dates and times are: spectators in the bleachers. ■ Heights —7p.m. Thursday, First Welsh Presbyterian “We need your help,” Church, South Meade and East Northampton streets. pleaded the Rev. Shawn Walk- major theme of the night. ■ North End —7p.m. July 30, St. Mary’s Social Hall, 522 er, one of the co-founders of “If you see someone get- Madison St. the Building Bridges pro- ting bullied, tell someone,” ■ South Wilkes-Barre —7p.m. Aug. 6, St. John’s Lutheran gram. “That’s why the adults Tae-Sjaah said. Church, 410 S. River St. are up there.” After a quick rock, paper, ■ Rolling Mills Hills/Mayflower/Iron Triangle — 6:30 p.m. Aug. One of those adults watch- scissors ice breaker to get 7, St. Andrews, 316 Parrish St. ing was U.S. Attorney Peter the children acquainted ■ East End —7p.m. Aug. 13, Holy Savior Church, 54 Smith, the chief prosecutor with each other — and to Hillard St. for 33 Pennsylvania counties, award winners with a movie ■ Central City — 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15, Provincial Tower, 34 S. including Luzerne, who said ticket — the students broke Main St. he came to learn about the into groups like the adults ■ Parsons —7p.m. Aug. 16, Primitive Methodist Church, program. did in the five previous ses- 193 Austin Ave. The Rev. Walker leveled sions. ■ Miners Mills —7p.m. Aug. 20, Marine Corps League, 158 with the youngsters about They filled out an anony- E. Main St. how it came about: the April mous survey that asked For more information, call 570-208-8900 or log onto www. 5 shooting death of 14-year- questions like: Do you feel wbcrimewatch.org. old Tyler Winstead — some- safe at school? Have you ever one around their age and a observed drugs or alcohol TODAY’S BEST BET good kid just like them. Win- being used at school? Have Hit downtown Tunkhannock tonight for Fourth Friday. stead’s death sparked an you or someone you know More than 20 participating downtown businesses along outpouring by the commu- ever been offered drugs by a Tioga Street/Route 6 from just past Warren and Pine nity to combat youth vio- friend? Do you know where streets are open until 9 p.m. For information, visit www.

lence and eventually the cre- to get help? The survey also tunkhannockbusiness.com. THE ation of Building Bridges. asked for tips on how to “If it happened to Tyler, improve things. CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS CITIZENS’ believe me, it could happen After brainstorming for A restaurant profile in Thursday’s JumpStart! requires KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE clarification. Barry and Marci Hosier, owners of B3Q to you,” Walker said. about 20 minutes, the groups Middle and high school students discussed topics Some of the students collaborated to form what Smokehouse at 200 Wyoming Ave., West Pittston, are

affecting the community, including bullying, access VOICE they believed were the top leasing the space from friend and supporter Frank Colella, arrived at the youth center to drugs and weapons, and feeling ignored. as early as 5:30 p.m. for the 7 problems facing youth: easy whose chiropractic practice moved from there to 135 Main p.m. meeting. The first to access to drugs and weapons, St., Pittston. All the input from the past dance raised his or her hand.

pass through the registra- bullying that leads people to FRIDAY, few months is being collected “You guys did exactly what tion table was Tae-Sjaah group identities for protec- A story in Monday’s edition incorrectly said the federal and analyzed to be presented we wanted to achieve,” said Williams, a 13-year-old from tion, boredom, and feeling Trafficking Victims Protection Act defines sex trafficking as at a larger overall meeting the Rev. Michael Brewster, ignored. They then brain- using force, fraud or coercion to induce individuals under South Wilkes-Barre and a JULY before school resumes with the other co-founder of rising eighth-grader at Mey- stormed again to seek solu- age 18 to perform a commercial sex act. The law says that officials from the communi- Building Bridges. “You were tions, which ranged from when dealing with minors under age 18, inducing them to ers Junior/Senior High 27, ty, city, schools and police. open. You were honest. We School. She thought one of more free community events perform such an act is defined as sex trafficking regardless Asked at the end of the thank you so much.” the biggest issues leading to to harsher consequences for of whether force, fraud or coercion is involved. 2012 meeting if they wanted to youth violence was bullying, those who create the prob- participate in future meet- [email protected], 570-821-2055 lems. It is our policy to correct errors promptly. To report an error, which eventually became a @cvbobkal –3 ings, every student in atten- please call the city desk at 821-2056.

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 07/27/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 07/26/12 23:02 | SUPERIMPSC Bail set for mom in alleged cover-up of teen’s shooting

By Michael R. Sisak Staff Writer

The final minutes of 14- year-old Tyler Winstead’s life, clouded for months by the secrecy of the juvenile court system, came into clearer focus Friday as the mother of his teen killer turned herself in on charges she aided in a flailing cover- WARREN RUDA / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE up. Former state Sen. Raphael J. Musto is sched- Angelina P. Deabreu, the uled to stand trial on bribery charges Nov. 13. mother of Winstead’s 13- year-old friend and neighbor Despite fitness for trial, COVER Elijah Yussuf, hid the gun he STORY used, deleted photographs from a cell- Musto case again delayed phone that showed him han- dling the weapon on various By Dave Janoski of a trial. The court-appoint- occasions prior to the shoot- Projects Editor ed doctor reported in June ing and misled investigators that Musto’s liver disease into believing his claims of a Despite a court-appointed should not prevent him drive-by shooting, prosecu- doctor’s opinion that former from standing trial. tors said. state Sen. Raphael J. Musto However, after Musto was Yussuf, it appeared, pan- was fit to stand trial for hospitalized in July for icked after shooting Win- bribery, a federal judge pneumonia and a blood stead in the heart while play- approved a fourth trial infection, his attorneys ing with a .22-caliber revolv- delay Friday because of a sought another delay until er in a first-floor bedroom, recent flare-up in Musto’s at least Dec. 1. Although prosecutors said. He moved liver disease. Musto has recovered from Winstead’s body to a side- Musto, charged in Novem- those conditions, the U.S. walk and concocted a dra- ber 2010 with accepting Attorney’s Office decided it matic story, complete with $35,000 in free building reno- wanted to have its own descriptions of the supposed vations and $3,000 in cash expert examine him, assailant and his getaway for supporting state funding prompting Caputo to agree car, that put their Hill Street, for two projects, was sched- to a November trial date. Wilkes-Barre neighborhood uled to stand trial Oct. 1. On Musto, a Pittston Town- on edge, prosecutors said. Friday, U.S. District Judge ship Democrat who served “The community was so A. Richard Caputo resched- in the state Senate for 28 distressed over this,” uled the trial for Nov. 13 to years after a single term in Luzerne County District give federal prosecutors the U.S. House of Represen- Attorney Stefanie Salavantis time to have their own medi- tatives, was indicted shortly said after Deabreu’s arraign- WARREN RUDA / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE cal expert examine the 83- before his previously THE ment on misdemeanors Angelina P. Deabreu leaves court Friday with her attorneys, Tom Marsilio, year-old defendant. announced retirement from left, and Lawrence Kansky. In May, Caputo named a office.

counts of lying to law CITIZENS’ enforcement, tampering with breu on $2,500 unsecured investigators portrayed and Deabreu’s corroboration gastroenterologist from the If convicted, he faces up evidence and corruption of bail. She is scheduled for an Wednesday in a criminal of a supposed drive-by shoot- University of Pennsylvania to 10 years in prison on minors. Deabreu pleaded not arraignment in the Luzerne complaint against Deabreu. ing, was a “huge distraction” School of Medicine in Phila- charges of bribery, fraud delphia to examine Musto and making false state- guilty. County Court of Common It is likely neither she nor that wasted “days of resourc- VOICE The charges carry a maxi- Pleas on Nov. 2, the same day Yussuf would have been es,” Salavantis said. after one of Musto’s person- ments. mum combined penalty of Yussuf is scheduled for sen- charged had they told the Deabreu’s attorney, Tom al doctors reported he was nine years in prison. tencing on an unspecified truth from the start, Salavan- Marsilio, said she would too ill to withstand the stress [email protected], 570-301-2178 “A young boy being shot, charge in juvenile court. tis said. answer for her “errors” in SATURDAY, they’re thinking it was a Prosecutors, barred by “It would be a very differ- judgment and was open to TODAY’S BEST BET drive-by shooting,” Salavan- juvenile court rules from dis- ent outcome if they came discussing a plea agreement. La Festa Italiana kicks off today on Courthouse Square in tis said, describing the panic cussing the Yussuf case, forward that night and said, “A ngelina, of course, is downtown Scranton. The festival is open from 11 a.m. to 10

that followed the initial used Deabreu’s arrest and ‘This was an accident — two very sorry for what has p.m. today and Sunday and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. SEPTEMBER reports about Winstead’s arraignment in adult court kids playing around,’” Sala- occurred,” Marsilio said. Attractions include food vendors serving Italian fare and live death. “When you hear a 14- as an avenue to disclose the vantis said. “This should be “We anticipate that this mat- entertainment. Visit lafestaitaliana.orgfor more information. year-old has been shot, killed details of Winstead’s death. a lesson right now for par- ter will be resolved and that in Wilkes-Barre because Salavantis, speaking pub- ents. Concealing evidence the family of Tyler will have For more about this weekend’s happenings, read On The Town some random person shot licly on the matter for the from law enforcement trying closure, as will Angelina and on page 4. 1,

him, it’s devastating to the first time since the April 5 to figure out what happened her family. ” 2012 entire county.” shooting, expanded on the in cases like this is not appro- CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS Magisterial District Judge narrative of tragic curiosity priate.” m [email protected], 570-821-2061, It is our policy to correct errors promptly. To report an er- –3 Rick Cronauer released Dea- and wild misdirection that Yussuf ’s misinformation @cvmikesisak ror, please call the city desk at 821-2056.

WB_VOICE - CVDAILY - 3 - 09/01/12 WB_VOICE/PAGES [T03] | 08/31/12 19:42 | SUPERIMPSC WB_VOICE/PAGES [A01] | 09/01/12 21:39 | SUPERIMPSC

DEAL OF THE DAY  $30 FOR $15 AT C.J.’S PIZZA: PAGE A2 THE SUNDAY CITIZENS’ VOICE

BREAKING NEWS AT citizensvoice.com September 2, 2012 A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Making history Price spike Misericordia University plays first Division III Gasoline prices are nearly 30 cents higher football game, falling to Gettysburg. than last year. And they might get worse. PAGE B1 PAGE H1 Friendly fi re killed W-B teen Winstead’s killer showed fondness for deadly revolver

By Michael R. Sisak STAFF WRITER They were inseparable that day. Elijah Yussuf, 13, and Tyler Winstead, 14, played basketball for hours at the Catholic Youth Center six MICHAEL R. SISAK / THE CITIZENS’VOICE Winstead Yussuf Penn State students sing the university’s alma mater after Saturday’s 24-14 loss to Ohio at Beaver Stadium. blocks from their Hill Street, Wilkes-Barre, homes. Through an investigation They hung out for an hour that unmasked the shooting at Yussuf ’s home afterward, as an accident, not a drive- investigators said, and by as Yussuf initially Proud to be PSU planned to sleep over one or claimed, detectives from the other’s house later that Wilkes-Barre and the Fans show strength, support as Lions kick off new era evening. Luzerne County District Then, for reasons only Attorney’s Office found the known to them — only boy had a striking fondness By Dan Gelston You know, the song with said, “in the stands at Bea- The Nittany Lions want known now to Yussuf — the and familiarity with the AP SPORTS WRITER the lyrics, “May no act of ver Stadium.” to make headlines for more younger boy pulled a loaded gun that fired the fatal bul- STATE COLLEGE — ours bring shame.” Indeed it was, despite than lurid tales of child .22-caliber revolver from a let. They came to Happy Val- But in a clear display of the loss. O’Brien, in fact, abuse. lockbox whose lock, investi- Yussuf would show the ley, 90,000 strong, to chant coach Bill O’Brien’s chal- led the charge in the first As a result, this opener gators said, hadn’t been fas- weapon off to friends like a and cheer and stand by lenge ahead, the new, home opener without Joe was about more than foot- tened. He dangled his finger favorite toy, according to a their team in a new era of short-handed Nittany Paterno since 1949, his ball. near the trigger and pointed criminal complaint filed last Penn State football. Lions wore down in the players behind him, storm- And it showed. the weapon across the room, week against his mother, By the end, as the Nitta- second half, and Ohio, ing the field as more than Penn State held a in the general direction of and posed for pictures with ny Lions trudged off the from the Mid-American 97,000 fans kicked off a moment of reflection Sat- Winstead, who sat on the it that were saved on his cell- field, a battered fan base Conference, upset Penn new chapter in the pro- urday for all victims of bed. phone. would need at least anoth- State, 24-14, on Saturday. I t gram’s tarnished history sexual abuse. As Winstead turned Yussuf ’s relationship with er week to celebrate. Hours was a sad ending for a with a raucous and sus- Penn State also asked toward Yussuf, the gun the gun — which he told after fans made their devoted fan base that came tained ovation. fans to pause and know fired. friends belonged to his cathartic drive to Beaver ready to rock the house, Then came the familiar that all those affected by With the gun being a father — underscored a Stadium, handmade signs after scandal rocked the refrain that has echoed abuse are remembered in revolver, Yussuf either cocked child-like curiosity fostered and banners attached to program. through the stadium for their hearts. it first or pulled the trigger by ignorant parenting and a their RVs, they quietly “I thought it was a great decades: with suitable force. A single disregard within his home sang their alma mater. atmosphere,” O’Brien “We are ... Penn State!” CONTINUED ON PAGE A5 bullet traversed the small dis- for standard gun-safety mea- tance between barrel and best sures, district attorney Ste- friend, piercing Winstead’s fanie Salavantis said. LIONS FALL 24-14 TO OHIO IN EMOTIONAL OPENER. PAGE B1 chest, lung and heart in a fraction of a second. CONTINUED ON PAGE A4 Fairs take precautions amid fl u worries

By Bill Wellock tal Protection spokeswoman is only slightly higher at a will be set up near the swine STAFF WRITER said the environment of a fair, and some simple precau- and cattle pens at the Luzerne The county fair season puts county fair increases the risk tions can provide protection. County Fair, which starts the pastoral wonders of the of contracting the West Nile Organizers from the Wednesday at the fair- harvest season on display, but virus. Luzerne County Fair, Wyo- grounds on state Route 118 in with the late-summer fairs Don’t be too alarmed, ming County Fair and the Dallas. A no-touching policy come an increased risk of con- though — county fair orga- Bloomsburg Fair said they will be in effect for all ani- tracting two diseases: swine nizers said the flu doesn’t are taking precautions mals at the fair, said Gail Ver- flu and West Nile virus. seem to pose significant against swine flu, but most of byla, of Sweet Valley, who Organizers at three local threats. And Colleen Connol- those precautions are not dif- has worked with cattle and agricultural fairs said they ly, a state Department of ferent from what they do swine at the Luzerne County are taking precautions to Environmental Protection every year. Fair for 30 years. MARK MORAN / THE CITIZENS’VOICE deal with swine flu, and a spokeswoman, said the risk A hand-washing station A healthy pig drinks water at the Wyoming County Fair. Department of Environmen- of catching West Nile virus and plenty of reminder signs CONTINUED ON PAGE A4 Joblessness hits NEPA hard ADVERTISEMENT

and Economic Development, ties, with 9.9 percent jobless of the business department NEPA counties a regional research and rates each. at Misericordia University among highest analysis group. “We are get- Wyoming County has the in Dallas. ting a lot of external influ- seventh-highest rate, 9.2, A collapse in the housing unemployment ences on our economy. ” followed by Lackawanna market in the Poconos ties rates in state U nemployment in the County, at 9.1. closely to the high jobless Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Contributors to the bleak rate there, said Chuck Leon- By James Haggerty metro area has been the trend are complex, but out- ard, executive director of STAFF WRITER highest among state urban side forces have some the Pocono Mountains Eco- Three of the six counties regions since April 2011. impact. A wobbly overall nomic Development Corp. with the state’s highest Somber jobless totals in economy, the hangover from “A significant chunk of unemployment rates are in the Poconos add to the a housing crisis, scaled- our employment is engaged Northeastern Pennsylva- gloom. back natural gas develop- in home building, home nia. Pike County’s 11 percent ment and high unemploy- sales and financing,” he In fact, five of the 16 unemployment rate is the ment in the New York metro said. “This marketplace counties with the state’s state’s third-highest, trail- area all contribute to the continues to go through highest jobless percentages ing only Philadelphia, at region’s predicament. some serious changes in in July are in the region. 11.2 percent, and Cameron “It just seems to be a col- regard to the construction “It’s horrendous,” said County, at 11.1. Tied for lection of a lot of different industry.” Teri Ooms, director of the fourth-highest are Carbon, negatives,” said Timothy Institute for Public Policy Monroe and Luzerne coun- Kearney, Ph.D., chairman CONTINUED ON PAGE A6

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© 2012 The Citizens’ Voice SUNDAY WEATHER BIRTHDAYS C12 EDITORIAL A12 OBITUARIES B12-13 High 80º BRIDES C6 HOROSCOPE C8 PUBLIC SQUARE C1 Subscribe to the Voice Low 65º CLASSIFIED D1-18 LOCAL/STATE A3 STOCKS H6-7 570-821-2010 Some sun A2 CROSSWORD C8 LOTTERY A2 WORLD/NATION A8 WB_VOICE/PAGES [A04] | 09/01/12 20:51 | SUPERIMPSC

A4 || THE CITIZENS' VOICE |SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2012 ‘Easy access’ to guns

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A1 ‘That’s what scares A 14-year-old identified as M.T., described a similar Yussuf ’s mother, charged me. That’s what’s encounter, two months before last week with hiding the more frightening the shooting, investigators gun, destroying evidence and said. Yussuf, the boy said, lying to investigators, may than anything — showed him a digital image not have been aware prior to parents not knowing of the silver revolver. Later, the shooting of her son’s abil- and having kids play when they were playing in ity to access the gun, Salavan- the backyard, Yussuf showed tis said. with guns in the him the actual gun, the boy “I don’t know if she even home. This is what said. knew, or was aware that her Another peer, identified as child knew there was a gun happens.’ T. W. , said Yussuf once showed in the house and that he had STEFANIE SALAVANTIS him a cellphone displaying a access to it,” Salavantis said. Luzerne County digital photograph of the “That’s what scares me. district attorney gun. That’s what’s more frighten- The Rev. Shawn Walker, the ing than anything — parents Her attorney, Tom Marsi- co-founder of the Building not knowing and having kids lio, conceded she “made some Bridges initiative formed in play with guns in the home. judgment calls that were not response to the shooting, said This is what happens.” in her best interest.” Those, last week Yussuf ’s behavior, Yussuf ’s mother, Angelina investigators said, included as described by investigators, P. Deabreu, spoke to detec- hiding the gun in a neighbor’s appeared endemic of what tives the day after the April 6 scrap metal pile, under a youths in the program JASON FARMER / TIMES-SHAMROCK shooting and said she did not blanket in a cat carrier case J.B. Steinhurst makes a tornado potato at Lou’s World FamousstandSaturday at La described as “easy access” to have any firearms in the and eventually at her broth- Festa Italiana in Scranton. weapons. A survey of the home and that none of her er’s home in South Bound youth in the program relatives owned firearms, Brook, N.J. revealed an “alarming” num- either, according to the crimi- Investigators found the ber — as high as 30 percent La Festa Italiana nal complaint filed against lockbox at the home, but not — who knew someone who her last Wednesday. the gun. They have not recov- had brought a weapon to In the same round of inter- ered the weapon, Luzerne school. views, Yussuf perpetuated County Detective Dan Beky Salavantis and Beky said opens to big crowd his claim of a drive-by assail- said. It remains unclear, he they planned to combat that ant, giving detectives descrip- said, whether it was pur- casual attitude toward deadly tions of the supposed suspect chased legally. weapons by training parents By Joseph Kohut urday with performances of well as some new people. and his getaway vehicle, Regardless, investigators on standard gun safety tech- and Laura Legere the American and Italian “Everything went off with- according to the criminal said, the weapon became a niques. STAFF WRITERS national anthems at noon on out a hitch,” DiMattio said. complaint. Deabreu, whom focal point of bizarre interac- “(The Yussuf) firearm was the main stage. “What was surprising was Heather Gaffin may be of investigators determined was tions between Yussuf and his kept in a lockbox, but the lock Monsignor Constantine how many new faces I’ve Polish and German descent, not home at the time of the peers. Three of those peers was in the open position, so it Siconolfi, chaplain emeritus seen. It’s been great.” but her love of red sauce has shooting, nevertheless bol- offered investigators a win- was easily accessible,” Beky of the event, led a prayer for Dickson City resident Fred her sister convinced she stered her son’s claim, saying dow into the boy’s fondness said. “Had the combination “good weather, good friend- Maglaocchi, 84, and his wife should have been born Ital- a sketch of the supposed sus- for the .22-caliber Smith and on that lock been activated ship and a good time.” Michele, 50, have been com- ian. pect looked like someone she Wesson revolver, according to and Elijah didn’t know the “Our forefathers have giv- ing to La Festa for several “It goes with everything,” knew, investigators said. the criminal complaint combination to it, he wouldn’t en us a remarkable and out- years. In his opinion, La Fes- said Gaffin, 38, of Strouds- Yussuf is scheduled for sen- against his mother. have had access to it. There standing tradition,” he said, ta has only improved with burg said. “You can’t go tencing Nov. 2 on an undis- One peer, a 16-year-old iden- was the means to secure the and highlighted Italian integ- age. wrong.” closed charge in juvenile court. tified in the complaint as weapon, but it just wasn’t rity, hard work, respect and “I have found that if you Gaffin and her boyfriend, His attorneys are barred by the W. W. , told investigators Yus- implemented. They kept the generosity. find food that you don’t like Larry Kelly, paused during rules of that court from com- suf called him over and combination all on zeroes. He Lackawanna County Com- here one year, they will not their circuit of La Festa Itali- menting on the case. His moth- showed him the gun — silver had access to it anytime he missioners Jim Wansacz and be here when you come back ana on Scranton’s Court- er is slated for a formal arraign- with a dark grip. Yussuf talk- needed.” house Square Saturday to Patrick O’Malley, who were next year,” Maglaocchi said. ment the same day in the ed about having bullets in his enjoy slices of pizza from one congratulated by La Festa The only complaint that Luzerne County Court of house and his dad locking the CV [email protected] of the many Italian food ven- chairman Chris DiMattio for Maglaocchi had was there Common Pleas. gun up, the 16-year-old said. 570-821-2061, @cvmikesisak dors. All around them, being married to Italians, was not enough space to sit crowds moved slowly around welcomed visitors. down and enjoy a bowl of the four blocks, greeting “This is what summer is,” pasta e fagioli. Fair organizers not alarmed, friends and selecting out Ital- O’Malley said. “This is a fes- “You have to have more ian delicacies of their own to tival not only for Italians but tables in the grass,” Malaoc- enjoy. for everyone.” chi said. “(There) just simply but taking some precautions Festival and elected offi- DiMattio said that he isn’t enough space to sit.” cials officially opened the saw a lot of old friends The festival continues CONTINUED FROM PAGE A1 37th La Festa Italiana on Sat- return to the festival, as today beginning at 11 a.m. At the Wyoming County WHAT YOU SHOUD DO Fair, which runs through I f you’re headed to a fair with live animals this summer, fol- Monday at the fairgrounds in low these tips to avoid swine flu: Meshoppen, a veterinarian ■ Wash your hands after visiting areas with live animals will be on-site, people touch- and avoid carrying food or drink or putting things in your ing animals will be encour- mouth while in those areas. aged to use washing stations ■ Healthy people can catch the flu, but the people most at and pigs will need a certifi- risk are children younger than 5, people older than 65, preg- nant women and people with certain chronic medical condi- cate saying they do not have tions or weakened immune systems. swine flu to enter the ■ If you have a flu-like illness and you’ve been near live ani- grounds, said James Dillon, a mals at an agricultural fair or a farm in the week before your member of the fair’s board illness, contact your healthcare provider, local health depart- at various downtown Scranton at 8:45 a.m. and bring lunch of directors. ment or the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 1-877-PA- Today venues. More than 70 musical and water. Group leaves at At the enormous Blooms- HEALTH for advice and appropriate follow-up. acts will perform. Visit www. 9 a.m. Contact leaders Sue burg Fair, pigs will also need steamtownshowcase.com for Eckhart at 570-283-1312 or their papers to get in the door To avoid the West Nile virus: $ Tune in a complete list of bands and Rich McNulty at 570-825- and signs will encourage peo- ■ Get rid of standing water, clean rain gutters, make sure Radio Bold Music Festival locations. 7200 for information. ple to use the fair’s hand- doors and windows are closed tight. kicks off at 1 p.m. on the patio washing stations, said Jeff ■ When outside, wear long-sleeved clothes or use bug at Mohegan Sun at Pocono & Strikeuptheband # Ride the rails Giger, the superintendent of spray with DEET. Downs. Performers include Lehigh Valley regional con- Railfest 2012 continues livestock at the fair. Except rock band Dakota and Face cert band the Allentown Band at the Steamtown National for more signs than usual the virus at the Somerset higher risk at a fair,” she to Face, a tribute to Billy Joel performs at 7 p.m. at the Historic Site in Scranton. The reminding fairgoers to wash County Fair, according to a said. Because agricultural and Elton John. Fireworks Mauch Chunk Opera House annual event celebrates the their hands, nothing new is news released issued Friday fairs are usually in rural follow the show at 9:30 p.m. in Jim Thorpe. The band is the past, present and future of by the state Department of areas, happen during the late Free admission. currently planned in oldest civilian concert band railroading with equipment response to swine flu, Giger Health. summer when mosquitoes in the U.S. Doors open at 6. displays, children’s programs, The strain is H3N2v. The are prevalent, and gather &Rock out said. $15 adults, $10 seniors, $8 tours, demonstrations, guest “v” stands for a variant, or a many people and animals in The Steamtown Original Because the Bloomsburg children age 12 and under. speakers, steam-powered Fair, set for Sept. 22 to 29, is new strain. In the cases in one spot, the risk for infec- Music Showcase takes place excursions and live entertain- later in the year than many Huntingdon County, which is tion goes up, she said. ! Tough terrain ment. Visit www.nps.gov/stea other agricultural fairs in the about a three-hour car ride Sixteen people across the The Susquehanna Trail- for more information. state, the organizers have the southwest of Luzerne Coun- state were infected this year ers Hiking Club sponsors an Voted #1 Masonry Contractor ty, the people working with with the West Nile virus, eight-mile hike at Bear Moun- "Heritage festival benefit of waiting to hear swine appeared to have according to data from the tain and Storm King State North American Festival from state veterinarians Brick •Block •Concrete caught the flu after they were state Department of Environ- Park. Meet at the Park and of Wales continues at Hilton about the status of the flu, he Stone •Chimney &Stucco Repair Ride on Route 315 in Dupont Scranton and Conference said. in contact with the animals, mental Protection. An 82- Retaining Walls •Patio &Pavers Center. Attractions include “For now, we’re not Penn State said. year-old Luzerne County Assuaging fears of a dead- man died in August from FullyInsured ALL JUNKCARS & musical performances, films, alarmed,” Giger said. “The Workmanship Guaranteed seminars, folk dancing and state will update us. People ly, runaway flu, Penn State complications caused by the Roy or Vince NCMA Certified TRUCKS WANTED tours. Tickets can be pur- shouldn’t be alarmed. There’s and the Department of virus, but Connolly said she 466-0879 Retaining Wall Installer HighestPrices Paid! chased at the event. Visit nothing to panic about.” Health said the flu didn’t wouldn’t caution people FINANCING And All of Luzerne, Lackawanna & Free Pickup. Call Anytime. AS LOW AS Monroe Counties PA 039701 www.nafow.org for more infor- A new variant of swine flu appear to have passed from against going to an event like

s 4.99% APR Now Accepting r rTM VITO &GINO mation. sickened children working one person to another, no one a fair. www.oldtimemasonry.com 288-8995 • Forty Fort with swine at agricultural who came down with the “This happens, but it % Taste of Italy fairs in Indiana and Ohio, symptoms was hospitalized doesn’t mean the virus any OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE La Festa Italiana continues and the same strain caused and pig products are safe to worse in Luzerne County,” WYOMING VALLEY LANDSCAPING &MASONRY today from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. mild cases of flu in at least eat. she said. “I don’t want to and Monday from 11 a.m. to four people working with West Nile virus has an scare people. It’s perfectly 9 p.m. on Courthouse Square pigs at the Huntingdon Coun- increased profile at events safe to go these fairs, just be in downtown Scranton. At- ty Fair in early August, a like county fairs, but most careful and take extra pre- tractions include food vendors Penn State Agricultural Sci- people are usually safe from cautions.” serving Italian fare and live ences News press release the mosquitoes, Connolly entertainment. Visit lafestaitali- [email protected] said. Three children were said. CV ana.org for more information. 570-821-2051 also sickened by the strain of “There is only a slightly NEED ANEW ROOF? WALLS,PAVERS &FIREPITS Stamped and Stained Concrete, Pavers, Flagstone, Call Now For Free Estimates! All Types of Retaining Walls, Excavation, Drainage, WE ALSO DO FLAT Custom Landscape Designs WATER PROBLEMS NEED Serving The &RUBBER ROOFS References and Photos Upon Request DRAINAGE IS Wyoming Valley NO PAYMENT #1 OUR SPECIALTY Since 1970 IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Licensed& Insured UNTIL JOB “Tired of Contractors Not Showing Up?” Over 24 Yrs. Exp. IS 100% ANEW COMPLETE LICENSED &INSURED •ALL WORK GUARANTEED GILROYGILROY

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A8 || THE CITIZENS' VOICE |SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 THE CITIZENS’ VOICE Editorial Board Publishers L arryHoleva, Managing Editor W. Scott Lynett, George V. Lynett Jr., Claire Schechter, Asst. Managing Editor Robert J. Lynett, Matthew E. Haggerty James Gittens, Editorial Page Editor Donald Farley, General Manager Dave Janoski, Projects Editor Community can stop rise of gun violence

T he revelation that 14-year-old Tyler Winstead was eral months and she actively participated in efforts to killed not in a deliberate drive-by shooting, but accident- deceive investigators after the shooting, according to ly by a 13-year-old friend fooling with his father’s hand- police, who have charged her with several misdemean- gun does not change the difficult questions the Winstead ors. case presents to our community. The Winstead case, the fatal drug-related shooting of In fact, the issues raised in the series of Building three young people in Plymouth in July and the seem- Bridges meetings organized by two local pastors in reac- ingly increased incidence of gun violence in Wyoming tion to the April shooting are just as pertinent, no matter Valley cry out for community soul-searching and the particulars of Tyler’s death. response. In session after session, those attending the Building Luckily, the Building Bridges program is already in Our Voice Bridges meetings have pointed to the place to help us confront those problems and band allure of crime and violence to youth together to find solutions. Those solutions might include in our community, a lack of parenting increased employment and recreation programs for at- skills and role models and the availability of firearms risk youth, effective parenting classes for adults and and other weapons as threats to the wellbeing of our crime-watch initiatives to make our neighborhoods saf- community. er, fear less pervasive and firearms less prevalent. One of the Building Bridges organizers said a survey Inaction is not an option, given the appalling violence of youths participating in the program found that 30 per- that is becoming more and more commonplace in Wyo- cent knew someone who had brought a weapon to ming Valley. school. There is still much work to be done, but Building KRISTEN MULLEN / THE CITIZENS’ VOICE In the Winstead case, the .22-caliber handgun was in a Bridges has laid the groundwork. The Rev. Shawn Walker speaks to members of the lockbox that wasn’t locked, the alleged shooter’s mother If we pull together as a community we can make a dif- community during the first Building Bridgesmeet- was not aware he had been playing with the gun for sev- ference and prevent the next tragedy. ing at Dodson Elementary in Wilkes-Barre.

The winners and losers from this week’s news, as selected by the editors of The Citizens’ Voice.

CHEERS to the Luzerne County Fair, which opened a four- :) day run Thursday at the fairgrounds in Lehman Township. This marks the 50th year the fair has offered an outdoor exhibition of the very best products and fun in Luzerne County.

JEERS to the person who scribbled anti-Semitic graffiti on a :( wall of a Kingston veterinarian’s office. Anyone with information about the cowardly hate crime should call Kingston police at 570-288-3674.

CHEERS to community leaders Leonard Insalaco, Lita Insa- :) laco and Dr. William V. Lewis, who will be honored Monday by the Family Service Association of Wyoming Valley for their contributions to the non-profit association, which offers pro- grams for families, children and individuals.

JEERS to our less-than-hardworking lawmakers in Harrisburg, who, despite being among the highest-paid state legislators in :( the nation, won’t return from their summer vacations until Sept. 24. They’ll likely hold only nine session days before taking an election break in mid-October. Nice work if you can get it.

Your Voice: Letters to the editor Mechanic did citizen of Pennsylvania. the poor, the elderly, minori- for the state of Pennsylva- our flag, Independence Day to display the flag. unauthorized work That time has now come ties and students. What hap- nia, a crime against all legal is our nation’s birthday and My questions were not or- with the enforcement of the pened to their protection un- voters nationwide and a Veterans Day honors those ders. When I suggested the My husband recently Voter ID law. der the Voting Rights Act of shameful attempt to steal who served and are serving mayor issue a request proc- brought his vehicle to a local I n a recent court hearing 1965, which guarantees the the presidency of the United in the military, not a single lamation for the community mechanic to have the front to overturn the Voter ID law, right to vote to racial, ethnic States of America. response came from either to display the flag, he stated brakes checked as there was the spokesperson for the and minority citizens? DAN SIDERIO council. he issues many proclama- squeaking when the brake state could cite no instances Whatever happened to Gettysburg Space won’t allow me tions and has a small staff. was applied. of voter fraud. encouraging more and more to detail all my comments How’s that for an answer? He mentioned to this me- The Republican judge people to exercise their right Encourage people during those meetings. I After my first question chanic the problem he was then ruled to uphold the to vote? to fly the flag will, however, relate several to the Wilkes-Barre mayor having and left his vehicle to Voter ID law. Simple. questions I presented to and council, the chairperson be looked at. I n his six years as Penn- The people targeted by the The lack of encourage- both councils, looking for interrupted me and stated Later in the day we re- sylvania Attorney General, Voter ID law do not agree ment to display our nation- answers. they would not respond ceived a phone call and were Republican Gov. Tom Cor- with the agenda of the Voter al emblem, the American I asked that they each to any of my questions. I advised that the car was bett did not prosecute one ID law supporters, so let’s flag, by the mayors and raise their hand if they replied whether you answer finished. single case of voter fraud. just make it as difficult as councils of Kingston and were in agreement with the or not I’m going to ask the We then learned that But he signed the Voter ID possible for them to vote, Wilkes-Barre to its citizens questions. questions anyway and then not only did the mechanic bill. even if their right to vote is is nothing but shameful. First, how many members proceeded. They did not replace the front brakes Statewide, the Republican guaranteed by law. I personally attended the of council and mayors con- respond. but also replaced the rear members of the House of You never hear the Repub- July and August council sider the American flag a Displaying our nation’s flag brakes. Representatives and of the lican nominee for president meetings of both commu- flag of honor? is a visible way of honoring His explanation for replac- Senate, hiding behind the or the Republican nominee nities requesting they see Second, how many of you those who served and are ing all four brakes was that “voter fraud” smokescreen, for vice president mention that the main thorough- believe the American flag serving our nation in time of he could not turn the rotors voted to support the Voter what is going on in Repub- fares, in particular during renders honor and need not war and peace. any more than what he had ID bill. lican controlled states in patriotic holidays and es- be altered to do so? Based on the reaction of done. Case in point, these ro- However the “cat was let regard to the Voter ID law. pecially Memorial Day and Third, how many of you both the councils of Kingston tors had never been turned out of the bag” by Republi- Romney and Paul Ryan Veterans Day be lined with believe defacing or desecrat- and Wilkes-Barre, they don’t before. can Rep. Mike Turzai when know what is happening, the American flag. ing our nation’s flag violates agree with that statement. A mechanic or anyone he boasted “Voter ID — done but they are so intent on The response from both the U.S. Flag Code? Keep in mind the Ameri- who works on your vehicle — this will allow Mitt Rom- winning at all costs that councils was as though I Fourth, how many believe can flag is a flag of honor and should not do any additional ney to win the state of Penn- they are willing to allow the was talking in an empty the public display of our the only flag to which we owe work on your vehicle unless sylvania.” voting rights of our citizens room. When I reminded nation’s flag is a wonderful allegiance. you give that mechanic per- No mention of stopping to be trampled. them Memorial Day honors way of expressing patrio- I suggest if you believe the mission to do so. A simple voter fraud by Turzai. Just This is an embarrassment our dead, Flag Day honors tism and love of country? lack of not being displayed phone call was all that was a shameless, brazen admit- Fifth, do the mayor and throughout your communi- necessary. tance of the true purpose of Voice your opinion council have any intention ties is sparse begin display- JOYCE ANN PEREZ the Voter ID law. to see that our nation’s flag ing Old Glory from your Mountain Top T his law imposes dif- The Voice welcomes your opinion, primarily on topics covered in will be displayed on the pa- homes, businesses, etc., and ficulties in obtaining iden- the news pages. Letters of 150 words or fewer are ideal. Longer triotic observances or is it a write the community leaders Voter ID law tification for hundreds of letters will be edited. Please include your name, address and phone dead issue? to encourage displaying our is embarrassment thousands of Pennsylvania number for verification. Only the name and town will be printed. The only responses to flag. In an effort to express a multitude of views from a diversity of read- citizens who have been vot- the questions was the “The Stars and Stripes I never thought that ers we request letter writers submit just one letter every two weeks. there would come a time ing honestly for their entire Write: Your Voice, The Citizens’ Voice, 75 N. Washington St., Kingston chairperson stat- forever. ” when I would be embar- lives. Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18701 E-mail: [email protected] ing they would not order J I M W ALSH rassed to say that I was a The Voter ID law targets or fax: 570-821-2247. the residents of Kingston Wilkes-Barre

Street Talk: Do political conventions affect your vote?

“Not at all. I “Absolutely not. “No. I don’t “No. They’re “They definitely don’t go for the It’s all rhetoric.” usually watch mostly just a affect my vote. I’m propaganda.” them.” bunch of for Obama all the P.J. Melvin bad-mouthing.” way.” Jeffrey Sager Pittston Joe Zippilli Kingston Shavertown Jerry Kruszka Patrice Yurek Wilkes-Barre Wyoming

A Times-Shamrock Newspaper Hal Marion Special Projects Adviser MarkAltavilla Advertising Director JoeNealon Circulation Director Judi Shaver Marketing Manager Building Bridges sets goal to unify community Deadline for city employees

By Christopher Hong Staff Writer to accept furloughs looms

After meeting with commu- By Christopher Hong ees eligible for retirement nity members to address the Staff Writer and their dependents. underlying causes of youth Bilski said he isn’t sure if violence, founders of the WILKES-BARRE — Today his union’s contributions Building Bridges group are is the deadline for city work- will be enough to avoid lay- ready to find solutions. ers to accept voluntary fur- offs. “We did not want this to be loughs to help plug a multi- “They haven’t really given a series of town halls and a million-dollar deficit the city us anything with hard num- bunch of stuff in the newspa- is facing, and officials aren’t bers, so I really couldn’t,” per, and then go home,” said expecting a large number of Bilski said. the Rev. Shawn Walker, one of people to step forward. Leighton will not say how the co-founders. “I don’t anticipate it being much money the city aims to The group was founded in an eye-popping number,” save with the furloughs and response to the April shooting said city spokesman Drew retirements. death of 14-year-old Tyler KRISTENMULLEN /THE CITIZENS’VOICE McLaughlin. Representatives from the Winstead. Since then, the Facing a $2 million to Wilkes-Barre Police Benevo- group has held a series of Wilkes-Barre resident Darlene Duggins asks questions at the Building Bridges meeting at the Catholic Youth Center in Wilkes-Barre. $3 million budget deficit, lent Association; the Team- town hall meetings with resi- Mayor Tom Leighton in Octo- sters, which represent most dents, parents and students dents would have to worry suicide. Building Bridges also plans ber asked the city’s nearly 300 of the city’s Department of trying to find the contributing about,” Williams said. “If you “Look at the writing on the to create “Neighborhood Vil- employees to not work during Public Works employees, and factors to issues that “threaten don’t feel safe at school, where wall here,” he said. “Maybe lage Centers” located through- the final six weeks of the year. the Public Service Workers, community well-being,” can you feel safe?” we ought to listen to our out the city that would distrib- If the furloughs do not gener- which represents City Hall including youth violence. The Rev. Walker said 29 of kids.” ute resources and informa- ate enough savings, Leighton employees, did not return The group held five meet- the students said they knew The next step of Building tion, like parenting workshops. said the city will make “dras- calls Thursday seeking com- ings at local high schools for someone who had been offered Bridges is to form “Neighbor- They’d also serve as a central tic” and “permanent” cuts to ment. community members to par- drugs — mainly marijuana — hood Enrichment Coalitions” location where residents can the workforce. City officials said the defi- ticipate, as well as a sixth at school, and 24 said they at to help solve the problems voice concerns. McLaughlin would not say cit is the result of an overall meeting geared specifically one time observed drug use on mentioned in the meetings. The group also asked the how many people have vol- decrease in tax revenue and for students grade six through school grounds. He said that The coalitions would help city for help, including an unteered for the furloughs the $1.7 million owed by for- 12. At those meetings, the top number doesn’t surprise him. build a tighter and closer com- increased police presence in and said an official count mer county tax collector four contributing factors to “Drug use is common and munity. high schools and support to won’t be known until the end Centax. youth violence participants casual, and it’s not the kids “We have lost the village parenting education pro- of day. The original Oct. 31 dead- named were peer pressure that you think,” Walker said. mentality within our commu- grams. The Rev. Walker said Mike Bilski, president of line was extended to Friday and bullying, easy access to Twenty-two said they knew nities,” said co-founder The the group is also creating its the Wilkes-Barre Firefight- because of Hurricane Sandy, drugs and weapons, lack of someone who planned or Rev. Michael Brewster. “Every- executive board and fundrais- ers Association, said one said city spokesman Drew parenting and mentoring, and attempted to commit suicide. one is sort of in their own ing and marketing commit- firefighter volunteered to McLaughlin. Employees boredom among youth. Ten said they had been bul- bubble.” tees. They are currently seek- take a six-week furlough. have until Nov. 15 to accept The 58 students who attend- lied. Brewster said the coalition ing volunteers to join all of the Two others accepted the the retirement incentive. ed the youth meeting in July The Rev. Walker said the would help residents get to coalitions and boards. city’s retirement incentive, also took a survey that asked survey was given out before know each other and unite which offers three years of [email protected] questions about school safety, 570-821-2052, @CVChrisHong the one-week period when existing improvement efforts, [email protected], 570-821-2052, health insurance to employ- violence, suicide and drug use. four area students committed like crime watch groups. @CVChrisHong Walker said the results “floored” him. ALL JUNKCARS & ROOF SPECIALIST YEAR ROUND Thirteen knew someone NEED ANEW ROOF? TRUCKS WANTED Mister “V” Construction who carried weapons at Call Now For Free Estimates! HighestPrices Paid! Specializing in all types of Roofs, school. Sixteen students said Free Pickup. Call Anytime. Siding, Chimneys and Roof Repairs WE ALSO DO FLAT&RUBBER ROOFS Low Prices Free Estimates there is a weapon at their NO PAYMENT UNTIL JOB IS 100% COMPLETE VITO &GINO Lic. &Ins. 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