http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0U7J374wPc
House Majority Leader Wouldn't Agree to Debate Until Learning of this Commercial Hazleton, PA- In Pennsylvania, the House Democratic Majority Leader, Todd Eachus, a fourteen year incumbent, refused to debate his opponent, Attorney Tarah Toohil, a 31 year old political newcomer and Republican. Tarah Toohil has repeatedly requested a debate since August 11, 2010. Until news broke of this debate commercial, Eachus was still in hiding. For example, he refused a debate to be held by the Times Leader and an issues forum to be hosted by the Standard Speaker, the area's two local newspapers. Tarah Toohil's camp contends that Eachus was avoiding a debate as he cannot answer questions due to his ties to an ongoing Federal Investigation and separate State Investigation "Bonusgate" in which he is embroiled.
See the Debate Commercial on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0U7J374wPcSee attached video of the Debate Commercial. Following this commercial, Eachus did agree to a debate, however, only in a closed door, pre-taped forum, excluding the public. Toohil replied, "I can't wait. It's about time." For more information go to www.toohil.com or email vote@toohil.com.
PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT TARAH TOOHIL
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
EACHUS REMAINS SILENT
EACHUS TAKES THE 5TH ON CORRUPTION QUESTIONS
On Tuesday, September 7, Candidate Tarah Toohil served a list of questions on her opponent, Representative Todd Eachus which sought answers referring to Mr. Eachus's role in the Bonusgate corruption scandal that has rocked Harrisburg. It was requested that these questions be answered by Thursday, September 9, 2010 by 5pm. As of noon on Friday, September 10, Representative Eachus has chosen to ignore these questions and remain silent.
"I truly felt that these were simple and straight forward questions. The fact that Mr. Eachus has chosen to hide from these questions and from the people who put him in office saddens me but it does not surprise me. These questions would be quick and easy to answer, if the person answering them had nothing to hide" said Toohil. "Since my opponent has exercised his right to remain silent on the corruption scandal and chosen to not answer these questions, I can only assume the worst."
Eachus, through a paid campaign spokesman has attempted to dodge this issue, stating that he did not receive the questions, then refusing a copy of the questions when offered by a member of the media. Mr. Eachus doesn't believe that his role in the corruption scandal is a "campaign issue" and hopes that it will get swept under the rug. However, Toohil vows that she will not let up until Mr. Eachus finally talks to the people who put him in office.
"The people who put him in office deserve answers. The people deserve to know the full extent of Mr. Eachus's involvement in this corruption scandal" said Toohil. "Why won't he answer these questions? What is he trying to cover up?" questioned Toohil.
"This is just another example of Mr. Eachus refusing to listen to the concerns of his community. I am running for the people. Mr. Eachus is running from them" said Toohil.
On Tuesday, September 7, Candidate Tarah Toohil served a list of questions on her opponent, Representative Todd Eachus which sought answers referring to Mr. Eachus's role in the Bonusgate corruption scandal that has rocked Harrisburg. It was requested that these questions be answered by Thursday, September 9, 2010 by 5pm. As of noon on Friday, September 10, Representative Eachus has chosen to ignore these questions and remain silent.
"I truly felt that these were simple and straight forward questions. The fact that Mr. Eachus has chosen to hide from these questions and from the people who put him in office saddens me but it does not surprise me. These questions would be quick and easy to answer, if the person answering them had nothing to hide" said Toohil. "Since my opponent has exercised his right to remain silent on the corruption scandal and chosen to not answer these questions, I can only assume the worst."
Eachus, through a paid campaign spokesman has attempted to dodge this issue, stating that he did not receive the questions, then refusing a copy of the questions when offered by a member of the media. Mr. Eachus doesn't believe that his role in the corruption scandal is a "campaign issue" and hopes that it will get swept under the rug. However, Toohil vows that she will not let up until Mr. Eachus finally talks to the people who put him in office.
"The people who put him in office deserve answers. The people deserve to know the full extent of Mr. Eachus's involvement in this corruption scandal" said Toohil. "Why won't he answer these questions? What is he trying to cover up?" questioned Toohil.
"This is just another example of Mr. Eachus refusing to listen to the concerns of his community. I am running for the people. Mr. Eachus is running from them" said Toohil.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Eachus Failed to Make Tough Choices
EACHUS FAILED TO MAKE TOUGH CHOICES
On July 14, 2010 the Standard Speaker ran an article entitled “Eachus: More tough choices ahead.” The problem with this year’s budget is that only the taxpayers are being asked to make tough choices. The Legislature lined the budget with more money for themselves while decreasing services to such groups as Veterans (a $1.26 million reduction), student PHEAA grants (a $15.3 million decrease), and State Police (a $7.1 million decrease). While local libraries suffer from a statewide funding cut of $5.5 million dollars, the Arlen Specter Library is being created in Philadelphia with $10 million dollars of taxpayer money. This makes no sense. Are we supposed to drive our children to Philadelphia for good books?
This year, families had to make the tough choice of not going on vacation because they cannot afford it. At the same time, our legislature increased their own legislative budget by $1.3 million dollars. This is only to be expected from a representative who collected $26,000 in per diems last year ($10,000 of which were racked up during the budget impasse).
This is the same representative who voted himself a pay raise and gave himself a 50% pension increase. Currently, our legislature is under fire for being one of the most expensive, bloated legislatures in the country. It is also the subject of the Bonusgate Grand Jury investigation which alleges lawmakers are illegally using tax dollars to campaign and maintain their well-paid, well-perked positions. Increasing the legislative budget is an insult to the taxpayers and the agencies that will go without this year. This is a classic example of how our legislature treats us, the taxpayers: Do as I say and not as I do. We Deserve Better.
On July 14, 2010 the Standard Speaker ran an article entitled “Eachus: More tough choices ahead.” The problem with this year’s budget is that only the taxpayers are being asked to make tough choices. The Legislature lined the budget with more money for themselves while decreasing services to such groups as Veterans (a $1.26 million reduction), student PHEAA grants (a $15.3 million decrease), and State Police (a $7.1 million decrease). While local libraries suffer from a statewide funding cut of $5.5 million dollars, the Arlen Specter Library is being created in Philadelphia with $10 million dollars of taxpayer money. This makes no sense. Are we supposed to drive our children to Philadelphia for good books?
This year, families had to make the tough choice of not going on vacation because they cannot afford it. At the same time, our legislature increased their own legislative budget by $1.3 million dollars. This is only to be expected from a representative who collected $26,000 in per diems last year ($10,000 of which were racked up during the budget impasse).
This is the same representative who voted himself a pay raise and gave himself a 50% pension increase. Currently, our legislature is under fire for being one of the most expensive, bloated legislatures in the country. It is also the subject of the Bonusgate Grand Jury investigation which alleges lawmakers are illegally using tax dollars to campaign and maintain their well-paid, well-perked positions. Increasing the legislative budget is an insult to the taxpayers and the agencies that will go without this year. This is a classic example of how our legislature treats us, the taxpayers: Do as I say and not as I do. We Deserve Better.
Toohil: Misuse of Taxpayer Money IS an ISSUE
My opponent has tried to ignore the Bonusgate Corruption Scandal where millions of dollars in BONUSES were paid out to state employees who did political work illegally on state time. This is the way my opponent has been running Harrisburg.
My opponent wants to ignore the fact that he collected over $27,000 worth of per diems in 2009 which he then used to purchase a second home for himself in Harrisburg. Per diems are supposed to go towards renting a hotel room and paying for food ($163 a day= $111 for hotel + $52 for food). Mr. Eachus, since you bought yourself a house and paid your own mortgage with taxpayer money... will you return the money to the taxpayers?
My opponent wants to ignore the fact that he collected over $27,000 worth of per diems in 2009 which he then used to purchase a second home for himself in Harrisburg. Per diems are supposed to go towards renting a hotel room and paying for food ($163 a day= $111 for hotel + $52 for food). Mr. Eachus, since you bought yourself a house and paid your own mortgage with taxpayer money... will you return the money to the taxpayers?
Eachus Offers Job to Non-Residents While People in District Starve for Jobs
Here at home we have an unemployment rate at 13%. The highest in the state. Yet, my opponent has a job available which he is only offering in out of town newspapers:
"PA House Majority Leader Todd Eachus seeks Field Director for 2010 re-election campaign. Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Todd Eachus seeks a Field Director to join his re-election campaign. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain a unique knowledge of a key area in a major swing state, make connections with key constituencies in the Democratic Party, and to successfully run a field campaign for both this race, and in conjunction with the coordinated ticket here in Pennsylvania. The responsibilities will include: Executing the field plan in place Managing canvass teams and volunteers Volunteer recruitment Meeting contact and vote goals daily and in each ward Various other tasks, as per the needs of the manager and candidate Qualifications: Willing to work smart and hard, as well as long hours. Willing to relocate to Northeast Pennsylvania. Ability to think quickly and work independently. Commitment to the Democratic Party and it's success. Any takers?
"PA House Majority Leader Todd Eachus seeks Field Director for 2010 re-election campaign. Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Todd Eachus seeks a Field Director to join his re-election campaign. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain a unique knowledge of a key area in a major swing state, make connections with key constituencies in the Democratic Party, and to successfully run a field campaign for both this race, and in conjunction with the coordinated ticket here in Pennsylvania. The responsibilities will include: Executing the field plan in place Managing canvass teams and volunteers Volunteer recruitment Meeting contact and vote goals daily and in each ward Various other tasks, as per the needs of the manager and candidate Qualifications: Willing to work smart and hard, as well as long hours. Willing to relocate to Northeast Pennsylvania. Ability to think quickly and work independently. Commitment to the Democratic Party and it's success. Any takers?
Eachus Uses Public Meeting to Grandstand
EACHUS USES PUBLIC MEETING TO GRANDSTAND
Tarah Toohil attended the Public Informational Meeting on August 31, 2010 regarding a Permit Application by Hazleton Creek Properties in order to listen to the concerns and opinions of the many members of the community who attended the meeting. Toohil stated, “As a member of this community, I have been following this project for a long time now. I have serious concerns with the environmental impact of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) gypsum and other materials on our generation and future generations. I will fight to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the families in my district.”Toohil was “thoroughly unimpressed with the DEP representatives and their inability to answer the community’s questions whether general or specific. It is insulting that DEP would come to our community without bringing any research or facts. DEP did not even bring a copy of the permit application for the public to view.”
Toohil’s opponent Representative Eachus also attended the meeting and attempted to distance himself from Governor Rendell. Toohil described Representative Eachus’s attempt to distance himself from Governor Rendell as “laughable considering his history of being lock-step with the Governor on nearly every issue.”
Toohil described Representative Eachus’s time at the podium as time spent “grandstanding” and his subsequent attack on Toohil as “political opportunism.” “I went to the meeting to listen to the people not as a political maneuver or a way to get my name in the news as Mr. Eachus is doing. I attended the Public Hearing in order to gather information and facts on the new permit application, listen to the concerns of the citizens, and answer their questions.”
Toohil stated that, “The job of a State Representative is to listen to the community’s concerns and to answer the questions of all of the people in the community whether he agrees with their opinions or not. Mr. Eachus’s attitude towards one constituent in particular was arrogant and disrespectful. When elected, I promise to never treat a constituent in such a way as he did last night.”
Tarah Toohil attended the Public Informational Meeting on August 31, 2010 regarding a Permit Application by Hazleton Creek Properties in order to listen to the concerns and opinions of the many members of the community who attended the meeting. Toohil stated, “As a member of this community, I have been following this project for a long time now. I have serious concerns with the environmental impact of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) gypsum and other materials on our generation and future generations. I will fight to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the families in my district.”Toohil was “thoroughly unimpressed with the DEP representatives and their inability to answer the community’s questions whether general or specific. It is insulting that DEP would come to our community without bringing any research or facts. DEP did not even bring a copy of the permit application for the public to view.”
Toohil’s opponent Representative Eachus also attended the meeting and attempted to distance himself from Governor Rendell. Toohil described Representative Eachus’s attempt to distance himself from Governor Rendell as “laughable considering his history of being lock-step with the Governor on nearly every issue.”
Toohil described Representative Eachus’s time at the podium as time spent “grandstanding” and his subsequent attack on Toohil as “political opportunism.” “I went to the meeting to listen to the people not as a political maneuver or a way to get my name in the news as Mr. Eachus is doing. I attended the Public Hearing in order to gather information and facts on the new permit application, listen to the concerns of the citizens, and answer their questions.”
Toohil stated that, “The job of a State Representative is to listen to the community’s concerns and to answer the questions of all of the people in the community whether he agrees with their opinions or not. Mr. Eachus’s attitude towards one constituent in particular was arrogant and disrespectful. When elected, I promise to never treat a constituent in such a way as he did last night.”
TOOHIL DEMANDS ANSWERS ON BONUSGATE CORRUPTION SCANDAL
Tarah Toohil Demands Answers on Bonusgate Corruption Scandal
Hazleton, PA – Candidate for Pennsylvania State Representative Tarah Toohil issued a demand for answers regarding the Bonusgate Corruption Scandal from incumbent Representative Eachus on Tuesday. Toohil stated, “Representative Eachus is a major player in the Bonusgate Scandal that has rocked the capital. His name has repeatedly surfaced in the Bonusgate investigation even being named as a close ally to convicted felon and former State Representative, Michael Veon.
According to published reports, Representative Eachus’s own aide, John Paul Jones, testified before the Grand Jury that Representative Eachus directed state employees to work primarily on political campaigns while on state time. Jones admitted that he did political work for Mr. Eachus while operating under the cover story that he was a legislative research specialist making $62,000 a year in state money. Jones testified, “That was sort of like the code of, here’s what I do, but really I was solely there as a political guy.”
To the present, Representative Eachus has repeatedly refused to answer questions regarding his involvement in the Bonusgate Scandal.
In an email to spokesman, David Georges, Toohil demanded answers to the following questions:
1. How much taxpayer money was spent on political work by state employees under your direction? During what time period did this occur?
2. Did you ever utilize state resources improperly in order to assist in campaigns?
3. Were you aware that your employees were doing political work on state time?
4. Have you ever used the term “soft dollars” in referencing state money that you directed to be used for political campaigning?
5. Did you personally make campaign phone calls out of your legislative office?
6. Did you direct John Paul Jones to do political work on state time?
7. Did you authorize bonuses (paid with state money) to state employees who did campaign work?
8. Have you discussed your involvement in Bonusgate with your employees or with your former ally and convicted felon Michael Veon?
9. Why do you refuse to answer questions from the media regarding your involvement in the Bonusgate Scandal?
It was requested that Representative Eachus respond with answers to these questions by 5:00 o’clock p.m. on Thursday, September 9, 2010. Toohil stated, “Representative Eachus, the people who put you in office deserve answers to these questions. They deserve to know the details of your involvement in the corruption scandal. As an elected official you do not have the right to remain silent when it comes to answering to the public.”
Hazleton, PA – Candidate for Pennsylvania State Representative Tarah Toohil issued a demand for answers regarding the Bonusgate Corruption Scandal from incumbent Representative Eachus on Tuesday. Toohil stated, “Representative Eachus is a major player in the Bonusgate Scandal that has rocked the capital. His name has repeatedly surfaced in the Bonusgate investigation even being named as a close ally to convicted felon and former State Representative, Michael Veon.
According to published reports, Representative Eachus’s own aide, John Paul Jones, testified before the Grand Jury that Representative Eachus directed state employees to work primarily on political campaigns while on state time. Jones admitted that he did political work for Mr. Eachus while operating under the cover story that he was a legislative research specialist making $62,000 a year in state money. Jones testified, “That was sort of like the code of, here’s what I do, but really I was solely there as a political guy.”
To the present, Representative Eachus has repeatedly refused to answer questions regarding his involvement in the Bonusgate Scandal.
In an email to spokesman, David Georges, Toohil demanded answers to the following questions:
1. How much taxpayer money was spent on political work by state employees under your direction? During what time period did this occur?
2. Did you ever utilize state resources improperly in order to assist in campaigns?
3. Were you aware that your employees were doing political work on state time?
4. Have you ever used the term “soft dollars” in referencing state money that you directed to be used for political campaigning?
5. Did you personally make campaign phone calls out of your legislative office?
6. Did you direct John Paul Jones to do political work on state time?
7. Did you authorize bonuses (paid with state money) to state employees who did campaign work?
8. Have you discussed your involvement in Bonusgate with your employees or with your former ally and convicted felon Michael Veon?
9. Why do you refuse to answer questions from the media regarding your involvement in the Bonusgate Scandal?
It was requested that Representative Eachus respond with answers to these questions by 5:00 o’clock p.m. on Thursday, September 9, 2010. Toohil stated, “Representative Eachus, the people who put you in office deserve answers to these questions. They deserve to know the details of your involvement in the corruption scandal. As an elected official you do not have the right to remain silent when it comes to answering to the public.”
Friday, August 13, 2010
TOOHIL Addresses Supporters
Hello Friends & Supporters,
On Wednesday, I was informed that numerous campaign signs of mine were stolen from my supporters' properties. Police are investigating. I ask you to please refrain from doing any such actions in retaliation to my opponent, Rep. Eachus's campaign materials. Such actio...ns are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The recent stealing of yard signs is an obvious attempt to silence me in my campaign, however, we cannot be intimidated. I would ask that you help me stand up against political corruption and put a sign in your yard. Please contact me and I will have a sign delivered immediately.
Thank you for all of your support.
We Deserve Better!
Tarah
On Wednesday, I was informed that numerous campaign signs of mine were stolen from my supporters' properties. Police are investigating. I ask you to please refrain from doing any such actions in retaliation to my opponent, Rep. Eachus's campaign materials. Such actio...ns are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The recent stealing of yard signs is an obvious attempt to silence me in my campaign, however, we cannot be intimidated. I would ask that you help me stand up against political corruption and put a sign in your yard. Please contact me and I will have a sign delivered immediately.
Thank you for all of your support.
We Deserve Better!
Tarah
Toohil Campaign Signs STOLEN!
Reprinted from Standard Speaker Newspaper 8/13/10
Someone has been stealing campaign signs off the property of Butler Township residents who support Tara Toohil in her campaign for election to the state House of Representatives in the 116th Legislative District.
Toohil, a Hazleton area attorney, is a Republican candidate for the house seat currently held by Democrat Todd Eachus.
In a letter hand-delivered Thursday to Eachus' local office in downtown Hazleton, Toohil asked the legislator to let his supporters know that theft of campaign signs is criminal.
"All I ask is that you reach out to your supporters to inform them that such behavior is un-American, unacceptable and criminal," Toohil wrote.
Toohil said she does not believe Eachus or his staff are the culprits.
"I am certain that neither you, nor your staff or campaign staff would ever engage in such acts. I, in no way, am accusing you of stealing these signs," Toohil wrote.
After learning of Toohil's letter, Eachus' campaign spokesperson Dave Georges said the legislator is opposed to every type of crime and he bristled at the suggestion that an Eachus supporter would commit such an act.
"Any type of vandalism is a crime and Representative Eachus would never tolerate this type of behavior from anyone," Georges said.
"I would suggest Ms. Toohil make sure she has evidence before she makes an accusation," he added.
According to the letter, Toohil said she was informed Wednesday that "many" of her campaign signs were stolen from supporters' properties.
The Butler Township Police Department has been notified and is investigating these thefts, Toohil said.
"I am confident these perpetrators will be brought to justice because four of the missing and vandalized signs were later found and taken into evidence," Toohil wrote.
Butler Township Police Chief Charles Altmiller confirmed Thursday that the theft complaint was received, and that police found a number of the stolen signs.
Altmiller said the signs were found "pitched in the woods close to where they were taken."
Altmiller said the police department is working to collect fingerprints off the recovered signs.
In addition to asking Eachus to reach out to his supporters to inform them that such behavior is unacceptable and criminal, Toohil said she has sent message to her own supporters informing them that any similar action taken against the Eachus campaign materials will not be tolerated.
mlight@standardspeaker.com
Someone has been stealing campaign signs off the property of Butler Township residents who support Tara Toohil in her campaign for election to the state House of Representatives in the 116th Legislative District.
Toohil, a Hazleton area attorney, is a Republican candidate for the house seat currently held by Democrat Todd Eachus.
In a letter hand-delivered Thursday to Eachus' local office in downtown Hazleton, Toohil asked the legislator to let his supporters know that theft of campaign signs is criminal.
"All I ask is that you reach out to your supporters to inform them that such behavior is un-American, unacceptable and criminal," Toohil wrote.
Toohil said she does not believe Eachus or his staff are the culprits.
"I am certain that neither you, nor your staff or campaign staff would ever engage in such acts. I, in no way, am accusing you of stealing these signs," Toohil wrote.
After learning of Toohil's letter, Eachus' campaign spokesperson Dave Georges said the legislator is opposed to every type of crime and he bristled at the suggestion that an Eachus supporter would commit such an act.
"Any type of vandalism is a crime and Representative Eachus would never tolerate this type of behavior from anyone," Georges said.
"I would suggest Ms. Toohil make sure she has evidence before she makes an accusation," he added.
According to the letter, Toohil said she was informed Wednesday that "many" of her campaign signs were stolen from supporters' properties.
The Butler Township Police Department has been notified and is investigating these thefts, Toohil said.
"I am confident these perpetrators will be brought to justice because four of the missing and vandalized signs were later found and taken into evidence," Toohil wrote.
Butler Township Police Chief Charles Altmiller confirmed Thursday that the theft complaint was received, and that police found a number of the stolen signs.
Altmiller said the signs were found "pitched in the woods close to where they were taken."
Altmiller said the police department is working to collect fingerprints off the recovered signs.
In addition to asking Eachus to reach out to his supporters to inform them that such behavior is unacceptable and criminal, Toohil said she has sent message to her own supporters informing them that any similar action taken against the Eachus campaign materials will not be tolerated.
mlight@standardspeaker.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
TOOHIL REACHED BENCHMARK 2,500 Doors
Hazleton, PA- Candidate for State Representative, Tarah Toohil has knocked on over 2,500 doors and plans to reach another 7,500 households before the General Election on November 2nd, 2010. Toohil is running a grassroots campaign that consists of visiting constituents at their homes in order to communicate her message. Toohil is concerned with bringing more jobs to the area, reducing property taxes, and working to better our schools.
"Voters have been very receptive and are ready for new representation down in Harrisburg. People in our community are hoping to put a fresh face into office because they are fed up with politics as usual," stated Toohil.
People also want to talk about the corruption in the legislature. People want to know why the local media isn't reporting more on these issues. Toohil's response is that she "will work to eliminate unethical practices and restore honesty and transparency in government."
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Bonusgate & Eachus
TIMELINE:
7/7/09
Eachus Subpoenaed by Defense to Testify in Bonusgate Trial
http://www.timesleader.com/news/Eachus_gets_Bonusgate_subpoena_07-07-2009.html
Rep. Todd Eachus was among several dozen House members and staffers subpoenaed by defense counsel to testify today at a pre-trial hearing in the Bonusgate case.
Eachus, who represents the nine Hazleton area municipalities of the 116th District and is the leader of the House Democratic Caucus, said the subpoenas are nothing more than "an aggressive defense tactic" by attorneys for former Beaver County state Rep. Mike Veon and other defendants in the Your search terms appear times.
12/4/09
Eachus Invited to Testify Before Grand Jury
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09338/1018310-454.stm
Such letters of invitation, unlike subpoenas, which are used to compel a grand jury appearance by witnesses, have been sent in the past to individuals thought to be targets of the jury.
Such letters were sent to earlier defendants in the sprawling investigation that came to be known as Bonusgate.
Gov. Ed Rendell yesterday confirmed the letter to Mr. Stetler, who informed the governor's staff last week. The letters to Mr. Eachus and Mr. DeWeese were confirmed by sources connected to the probe but who spoke on condition of anonymity because grand jury proceedings are secret. Press secretaries for Mr. Stetler and Mr. Eachus declined comment. Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09338/1018310-454.stm#ixzz0nq1rZsCY
"In my experience, when an individual has received that invitation letter ... they often fall into that category of people who may be charged or are likely to be charged," Michael Engle, the president of the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, told The Patriot-News.
http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2009/12/pennsylvania_house_majority_le.html
12/29/09
House Democrat Calls for Eachus to Resign from Leadership Position
http://votelentz.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:democrat-calls-for-new-house-leadership&catid=5:news&Itemid=8
"The crisis in public confidence in Harrisburg has reached a tipping point," Mr. Lentz asserted in a letter to Mr. Eachus and released to the Post-Gazette today. "Our caucus needs to begin anew and demonstrate in dramatic fashion that we are capable of cleaning our own house and refocusing on the citizens of Pennsylvania."
Mr. Eachus so far has refused to discuss the "invitation" to appear before the investigating grand jury.
3/5/10
Eachus (who was subpoenaed to testify) was never called to testify in the Bonusgate Case against former Rep. Mike Veon and three former aides.
Currently:
1) Many unanswered questions on Eachus' involvement with Bonusgate.
2) If Eachus is charged, the House Caucus rules require that he step down.
7/7/09
Eachus Subpoenaed by Defense to Testify in Bonusgate Trial
http://www.timesleader.com/news/Eachus_gets_Bonusgate_subpoena_07-07-2009.html
Rep. Todd Eachus was among several dozen House members and staffers subpoenaed by defense counsel to testify today at a pre-trial hearing in the Bonusgate case.
Eachus, who represents the nine Hazleton area municipalities of the 116th District and is the leader of the House Democratic Caucus, said the subpoenas are nothing more than "an aggressive defense tactic" by attorneys for former Beaver County state Rep. Mike Veon and other defendants in the Your search terms appear times.
12/4/09
Eachus Invited to Testify Before Grand Jury
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09338/1018310-454.stm
Such letters of invitation, unlike subpoenas, which are used to compel a grand jury appearance by witnesses, have been sent in the past to individuals thought to be targets of the jury.
Such letters were sent to earlier defendants in the sprawling investigation that came to be known as Bonusgate.
Gov. Ed Rendell yesterday confirmed the letter to Mr. Stetler, who informed the governor's staff last week. The letters to Mr. Eachus and Mr. DeWeese were confirmed by sources connected to the probe but who spoke on condition of anonymity because grand jury proceedings are secret. Press secretaries for Mr. Stetler and Mr. Eachus declined comment. Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09338/1018310-454.stm#ixzz0nq1rZsCY
"In my experience, when an individual has received that invitation letter ... they often fall into that category of people who may be charged or are likely to be charged," Michael Engle, the president of the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, told The Patriot-News.
http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2009/12/pennsylvania_house_majority_le.html
12/29/09
House Democrat Calls for Eachus to Resign from Leadership Position
http://votelentz.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:democrat-calls-for-new-house-leadership&catid=5:news&Itemid=8
"The crisis in public confidence in Harrisburg has reached a tipping point," Mr. Lentz asserted in a letter to Mr. Eachus and released to the Post-Gazette today. "Our caucus needs to begin anew and demonstrate in dramatic fashion that we are capable of cleaning our own house and refocusing on the citizens of Pennsylvania."
Mr. Eachus so far has refused to discuss the "invitation" to appear before the investigating grand jury.
3/5/10
Eachus (who was subpoenaed to testify) was never called to testify in the Bonusgate Case against former Rep. Mike Veon and three former aides.
Currently:
1) Many unanswered questions on Eachus' involvement with Bonusgate.
2) If Eachus is charged, the House Caucus rules require that he step down.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
MinSec Residents Strike Again
http://standardspeaker.com/news/minsec-resident-charged-with-theft-1.781184
May 11, 2010 Theft from CVS
May 11, 2010 Theft from CVS
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Toohil Among First To Sign Ethics Pledge
Toohil Among First To Sign Ethics Pledge. Urges Representative Eachus To Do The Same.
Luzerne County, PA – Today, Candidate for State Representative in the 116th District, Tarah Toohil, signed an Ethics Pledge with the Ethics Awareness Initiative. Toohil said, “It is extremely important to discuss ethics and teach ethics to our children. We need to promise ourselves and our community that we will conduct ourselves in an honest manner so that we can begin to restore the public trust and make sure that history does not repeat itself.”
Over 100 members of the community and government officials joined together today vowing to refuse to tolerate dishonesty and abuse of power in public life.
Representative Todd Eachus was not present at the signing.
Toohil stated that, “The Ethics Initiative is aimed at tackling the culture of corruption that we have been faced with here in Luzerne County. I was disappointed to see that Representative Eachus was not present to sign the pledge. This is an important issue that should not have been ignored. Today, I stood up and publicly affirmed that I will strive to conduct myself ethically and not blur the lines between right and wrong. I urge Representative Eachus to do the same.”
Members of the community can sign the Ethics Pledge by logging onto www.ethicsawarenessluzerne.com. Materials for teaching students and family discussions can also be found on the website.
Luzerne County, PA – Today, Candidate for State Representative in the 116th District, Tarah Toohil, signed an Ethics Pledge with the Ethics Awareness Initiative. Toohil said, “It is extremely important to discuss ethics and teach ethics to our children. We need to promise ourselves and our community that we will conduct ourselves in an honest manner so that we can begin to restore the public trust and make sure that history does not repeat itself.”
Over 100 members of the community and government officials joined together today vowing to refuse to tolerate dishonesty and abuse of power in public life.
Representative Todd Eachus was not present at the signing.
Toohil stated that, “The Ethics Initiative is aimed at tackling the culture of corruption that we have been faced with here in Luzerne County. I was disappointed to see that Representative Eachus was not present to sign the pledge. This is an important issue that should not have been ignored. Today, I stood up and publicly affirmed that I will strive to conduct myself ethically and not blur the lines between right and wrong. I urge Representative Eachus to do the same.”
Members of the community can sign the Ethics Pledge by logging onto www.ethicsawarenessluzerne.com. Materials for teaching students and family discussions can also be found on the website.
Friday, April 30, 2010
MinSec Promises Inadequate
Toohil: MinSec’s Promises for Change are Inadequate
(Response to April 30, 2010 Standard Speaker article)
Hazleton, PA – Today, April 30, 2010, it is being reported that “changes are coming to MinSec.” These changes, such as phasing out the pre-release program, improving management of the facility, and imposing stricter standards for permitting residents to leave on pass, were previously reported. New promises for change seem to have bought the facility more time. However, it is questionable as to what has really changed. Tarah Toohil, candidate for State Representative in the 116th Legislative District, looked to the facts. The reality is that during this month, the list of incidents continued to grow.
April 3, 2010 Police apprehend Edward E. Hardee, 48, one day after he failed to return to MinSec by his 4 p.m. curfew. MinSec employees finally reported him missing at 12:48 a.m. Nearly nine hours after he had absconded.
April 5, 2010 Jeffrey P. Wright, 30, another MinSec resident, is reported to have admitted to robbing M&T Bank, 223 W. Broad Street. Wright is speculated to have absconded on either April 5th or April 6th.
April 8, 2010 A MinSec resident accessed pornography on a City Hall computer causing the computer to contract a virus which had to be removed by a computer technician.
April 12, 2010 Police report that Jeffrey P. Wright and an accomplice attempted to rob three different banks within walking distance of MinSec: First National Community Bank, PNC Bank, and M&T Bank.
Toohil stated, "If MinSec has made changes as they claim, these changes are obviously insufficient. The reality is that MinSec’s residents are a danger to our city. How many crimes must be committed in order for the state to realize that MinSec is not doing its job?" MinSec has hired a spokesperson to improve community relations. State funding should not be used to hire a spokesperson for MinSec. Toohil argued that the state funding should be used to protect the community from MinSec’s residents.
Tarah Toohil said, "It is obvious that MinSec’s residents pose a real threat to our public safety. All of these fancy answers and promises for change are not enough to overlook the harm that MinSec has brought to our community and is still bringing. MinSec’s state funding must be halted. In the interim, this minimum security prison should be put on lockdown until its administrators figure out how to control the problems that are continually arising."
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Tarah Toohil
(Response to April 30, 2010 Standard Speaker article)
Hazleton, PA – Today, April 30, 2010, it is being reported that “changes are coming to MinSec.” These changes, such as phasing out the pre-release program, improving management of the facility, and imposing stricter standards for permitting residents to leave on pass, were previously reported. New promises for change seem to have bought the facility more time. However, it is questionable as to what has really changed. Tarah Toohil, candidate for State Representative in the 116th Legislative District, looked to the facts. The reality is that during this month, the list of incidents continued to grow.
April 3, 2010 Police apprehend Edward E. Hardee, 48, one day after he failed to return to MinSec by his 4 p.m. curfew. MinSec employees finally reported him missing at 12:48 a.m. Nearly nine hours after he had absconded.
April 5, 2010 Jeffrey P. Wright, 30, another MinSec resident, is reported to have admitted to robbing M&T Bank, 223 W. Broad Street. Wright is speculated to have absconded on either April 5th or April 6th.
April 8, 2010 A MinSec resident accessed pornography on a City Hall computer causing the computer to contract a virus which had to be removed by a computer technician.
April 12, 2010 Police report that Jeffrey P. Wright and an accomplice attempted to rob three different banks within walking distance of MinSec: First National Community Bank, PNC Bank, and M&T Bank.
Toohil stated, "If MinSec has made changes as they claim, these changes are obviously insufficient. The reality is that MinSec’s residents are a danger to our city. How many crimes must be committed in order for the state to realize that MinSec is not doing its job?" MinSec has hired a spokesperson to improve community relations. State funding should not be used to hire a spokesperson for MinSec. Toohil argued that the state funding should be used to protect the community from MinSec’s residents.
Tarah Toohil said, "It is obvious that MinSec’s residents pose a real threat to our public safety. All of these fancy answers and promises for change are not enough to overlook the harm that MinSec has brought to our community and is still bringing. MinSec’s state funding must be halted. In the interim, this minimum security prison should be put on lockdown until its administrators figure out how to control the problems that are continually arising."
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Tarah Toohil
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Toohil Calls for Termination of MinSec's State Contract
Tarah Toohil Calls for Termination of MinSec’s State Contract
Hazleton, PA – Candidate for State Representative, Tarah Toohil said, “MinSec continues to create a significant public safety concern for the City of Hazleton. MinSec’s state contract should be terminated and its state funding should immediately cease.”
In the fall, State Representative Todd Eachus requested Department of Corrections Secretary Jeffrey A. Beard conduct an investigation into the facility and how it is being operated. Six months later, we, the public, have not received any word from this “investigation” but we are still being inundated with the problems that MinSec is causing for our community.
Thanks to MinSec, Hazleton is quickly becoming a place where convicted criminals freely walk the streets without supervision. The individuals staying in this minimum security prison have caused numerous problems and been arrested for various crimes in Hazleton since MinSec has taken up residence on Broad Street. Business owners and residents are concerned for their safety. Reports show that the management team of MinSec is largely to blame. The latest development is that MinSec has hired a Public Relations Spokesperson, Kate Phillips, who formerly worked for Governor Ed Rendell. Rather than waste money on public relations outreach, MinSec needs to use its funding to improve security and properly manage its operations. MinSec currently receives state funding from the taxpayers.
The state contract should be terminated. In the interim, this minimum security prison should be put on lockdown until its administrators figure out how to control the problems that are continually arising. The public needs to be provided with information on the status of this investigation immediately. As your State Representative, I will always address the needs and concerns of the Hazleton Area. If elected, one of my first acts will be to fully review what can be done for the residents of Hazleton with regard to MinSec.
Hazleton, PA – Candidate for State Representative, Tarah Toohil said, “MinSec continues to create a significant public safety concern for the City of Hazleton. MinSec’s state contract should be terminated and its state funding should immediately cease.”
In the fall, State Representative Todd Eachus requested Department of Corrections Secretary Jeffrey A. Beard conduct an investigation into the facility and how it is being operated. Six months later, we, the public, have not received any word from this “investigation” but we are still being inundated with the problems that MinSec is causing for our community.
Thanks to MinSec, Hazleton is quickly becoming a place where convicted criminals freely walk the streets without supervision. The individuals staying in this minimum security prison have caused numerous problems and been arrested for various crimes in Hazleton since MinSec has taken up residence on Broad Street. Business owners and residents are concerned for their safety. Reports show that the management team of MinSec is largely to blame. The latest development is that MinSec has hired a Public Relations Spokesperson, Kate Phillips, who formerly worked for Governor Ed Rendell. Rather than waste money on public relations outreach, MinSec needs to use its funding to improve security and properly manage its operations. MinSec currently receives state funding from the taxpayers.
The state contract should be terminated. In the interim, this minimum security prison should be put on lockdown until its administrators figure out how to control the problems that are continually arising. The public needs to be provided with information on the status of this investigation immediately. As your State Representative, I will always address the needs and concerns of the Hazleton Area. If elected, one of my first acts will be to fully review what can be done for the residents of Hazleton with regard to MinSec.
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