The Morning Call yesterday reported how a Pawlowski co-conspirator, James Hickey, was sentenced to 18 months. In the article it states... The verdict (Pawlowski's) prompted Pawlowski to resign, bringing to an end a four-term tenure during which Pawlowski presided over a $1 billion rebirth of Allentown’s downtown. Say what you will about Pawlowski, but don't say that he presided over a rebirth of Allentown. That is the distortion which Pawlowski was hoping to use in his political runs, first for governor, than senator. Although the NIZ happen during Pawlowski's third term, he had nothing to do with it. He didn't sponsor or promote the legislation. Even the nine contracts investigated by the FBI, not one had anything to do with the NIZ. The NIZ was always completely above Pawlowski's realm. He was permitted to cut a few ribbons, that was all.
I don't expect The Morning Call to be very forthcoming about the NIZ. They have benefited directly from it. Many of their articles about the new buildings are virtually press releases provided by the developer(s). However, they should at least strive not to provide gross misinformation. Pawlowski's lawyer tried to sell the jury on the misconception that Pawlowski was the father of Allentown's revitalization. Apparently, only a Morning Call reporter believed it.
Not one business represented in the photo above still exists. Photo, promotion and distortion of the NIZ, all by The Morning Call
Too few ever understood this fact that Ed was merely in the "right" place when the NIZ was created. The paper and other media did their best to never set the record straight.
ReplyDeleteYes, more sad chapters in the making. Power does corrupt, power of the press, power of the bureaucrats, and power of the public purse.
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