Letter to the editor: Dermody an outstanding, ethical public servant

Regarding the article “Frank Dermody lost state House election but lands $145,000/year gambling board job” (Jan. 28, TribLIVE): I’m glad Dermody was appointed to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Dermody brings an incomparable level of expertise on the subject matter of the commission. This being a two-year appointment means his participation in and contributions to the commission will be part of the public record.

The House honored Dermody’s service in a public ceremony available on PCN. Journalists and Carrie Lewis DelRosso, to whom Dermody lost the election, should review it before making disparaging comments and inferences which seek to destroy the sterling reputation of an outstanding and ethical public servant after a lifetime of service to his constituents and state.

Erdley’s “revolving door” reference implies this appointment is detrimental to the public, “fattens his paycheck” denies value of his legal and legislative expertise and, worse, indicates her preexisting bias.

DelRosso complains that “he’ll be receiving public money” — repeating distorted implications from campaign literature. The election is over. Time to play nice. Is DelRosso implying that she works pro bono and denies herself standard benefits?

Dermody did not fail his constituents. Something else swept through elections last November, ousting this public servant who successfully represented and served citizens, municipalities and organizations of the Allegheny Valley. I, and many others, received personal help from his office.

Dermody shared a vision of restoring and developing the historic Rachel Carson Homestead in Springdale to befit its namesake. He’s been helpful and humble, never grandstanding. I hope DelRosso can and will follow suit.

Jeanne Cecil

Springdale