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Christian Persecution MayorMayor ClintonClinton YoungYoung 3DJH Caught Red Handed Brain-Based Learning 3DJH

Festival International du Blues de Tremblant 3DJH

Not So Grim Reaper 3DJH BUSTED

Fair Housing BUSTED 3DJH

Integrity in Journalism 3DJH

)`:HTAOLYRH7HNL Enablers of the Rich and Powerful Westchester’s Changing Demographics 3DJH Whites Soon to be a Minority Jaybird Flies )`9VILY[:JV[[7HNL 3DJH

westchesterguardian.com PAGE 2 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 Of Signiﬁcance FeatureSection Feature Section ...... 2 Radio ...... 2 Community Section ...... 4 Westchester’s Changing Demographics— Business ...... 4 Calendar ...... 4 Economics...... 5 Whites Soon to Be a Minority Higher Power ...... 6 By ROBERT SCOTT Community ...... 9 If you think census numbers are towns, many still with their original boundaries and Ed Koch Movie Reviews ...... 9 of scholarly interest only to statisti- each nominally administered by a supervisor. Within Music ...... 11 cians and demographers, you’ve got another think the towns, six cities and 20 villages were added, each coming. administered by a mayor. Three Westchester towns- Eye On Theatre ...... 12 Careful analysis of the 2010 Census results -Mount Kisco, Scarsdale and Harrison--are now in Community Theatre ...... 12 being dribbled out by the Census Bureau reveals a separate category described as a “town/village.” Government Section ...... 14 some startling and unanticipated trends. Administrative nomenclature can be down- The most notable statistic is the degree to which right confusing. For example, there’s a separate Housing ...... 14 Westchester’s population balance has been affected Ossining town and an Ossining village, a separate Infrastructure ...... 15 by international migration and high fertility rates Mamaroneck town and a Mamaroneck village, and Government ...... 16 among minority groups, especially Hispanics. a separate Pelham town and a Pelham village, as well Investigation ...... 16 What the Numbers Tell Us as a Pelham Manor village. Two villages are shared by towns: Briarcliff Manor is split between Ossining Law ...... 17 Today, Hispanics are the fastest-growing popu- and Mount Pleasant, Mamaroneck between the OpEd Section ...... 19 lation group in Westchester. In the 20 years between towns of Rye and Mamaroneck. 1990 and 2010, the county’s Latinos grew by an Westchester’s area is 500 square miles, 433 of Letters to the Editor ...... 19 astonishing 140 percent and Asians by 60 percent. Ed Koch Commentary ...... 20 which are land and 67 are water. At the time of the Hispanics constituted only nine percent of the 2010 Census, its population was 949,113. In order New York Civic ...... 22 county’s population in 1990. That number grew to of population size, Westchester’s six cities are Legal Notices ...... 23 16 percent in 2000, displacing blacks as the largest minority group. Another decade later, the coun- Continued on page 3 ty’s Latino population stands at an impressive 22 percent. Blacks increased by a mere ﬁve percent between ,/04,1.,3+ 1990 and 2010. (The Census Bureau accepts the #(,',3 designations Hispanic or Latino as equivalent, but $3-.(*$0(*$ 2 ()/,+!,0' '(0+$4/0 0(,+/ prefers the term black to African-American.) :HVWFKHVWHU·V0RVW,QIOXHQWLDO:HHNO\ In 1990, the number of residents identifying themselves as white--Westchester’s largest ethnic or racial group--constituted 79 percent of the county’s population. By 2010, the white population ,*-)$0$*$0., *XDUGLDQ1HZV&RUS 0.(/0 0$",2$. &$ dropped an unexpectedly large 22 percentage points. ,3$.%1)+$30. +/*(00$./ 32%R[ ,1. +#' )%',1.-.(*$0(*$ 2 ()/ Whites now comprise 57 percent of Westchester’s ,+!,0' +# 1HZ5RFKHOOH1HZ

FEATURE Westchester’s Changing Demographics—Whites Soon to Be a Minority Continued from page 2 Native Americans make up an almost Yonkers (also the largest in area), New insignificant percentage of Westchester’s Rochelle, Mount Vernon, White Plains, population (0.1%). Recent news stories Peekskill (the smallest in area) and Rye. alleging that many Hispanics are describing Among Westchester’s towns, Bedford themselves on census forms as Native and Yorktown are the largest in area; Pelham American are not borne out by census results. is the smallest. Greenburgh is the most In 1990, Native Americans numbered 1,405; populous; Pound Ridge has the smallest by 2010, that figure had dropped to 1,141. population. Among villages, Port Chester is the most populous; Buchanan has the Population Density smallest population. Density of a community’s population is a function of lot size and the number of Population Distribution multiple dwellings. Overall, Westchester’s Realtors don’t like to admit it, but choice population density is 2,193 persons per of a community by house- or apartment- square mile. seekers is often based on two factors: the Mount Vernon is the most densely racial or ethnic complexion of a community populated city, followed by Yonkers and New and the strength of its school system. The Rochelle. Rye is the least densely populated latter figure, of course, is not measured by the city. Eastchester is the most densely popu- federal census. lated town, Pound Ridge the least dense. The “whitest” Westchester city is Rye, Among villages, Port Chester is the with an 85-percent white population. Among most densely populated, followed closely by towns, Pound Ridge (94%) and Lewisboro Tuckahoe. The latter’s 6,486 residents are (90%) are the leaders, closely followed by crammed into only six-tenths of a square Somers, North Salem and New Castle. mile, making it almost as densely populated Mamaroneck, North Castle, Eastchester and as the city of Yonkers. Yorktown also are towns with white popula- Other densely populated villages are tions of more than 80 percent. Pelham, Ossining and Bronxville. Briarcliff Among villages, Larchmont (88%) and Manor is the least densely populated village, Bronxville (87%) have the largest percentage trailed by Buchanan and Croton-on-Hudson. of whites. Pelham Manor, Briarcliff Manor, Irvington, Rye Brook and Croton-on- Population Growth Hudson also have white populations larger In 1900, Westchester was home to than 80 percent. 184,257 persons. One hundred years later, Hispanics are the leading minority in the its population had grown more than five- city of Peekskill, making up 37 percent of the fold. Much of this growth occurred in the population, with Yonkers a close second at 35 southern part of the county. During the first percent. (Minorities are defined as persons two decades of the 20th century, the cities of of any race or ethnic group other than non- Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, White Plains Hispanic, single-race whites.) and Yonkers all more than doubled their The village of Port Chester, 30-percent populations. Hispanic in 1990, doubled its Hispanic The fastest-growing Westchester population in 20 years. Sleepy Hollow (51%), community in the 20th century, however, was Ossining (41%), Elmsford (38%) and Mount the town/village of Scarsdale with a popula- Kisco (35%) also had impressive gains. tion increase of almost twentyfold. Among cities, the highest percentage of Following World War II, Westchester’s blacks is Mount Vernon’s 61 percent, trailed population soared by 29 percent between by Peekskill’s 21 percent and New Rochelle’s 1950 and 1960. Towns and villages alike saw 18% percent. Among villages, Elmsford rapid growth. The town of Yorktown grew has the largest percentage of blacks (20%), 248 percent. Other big population jumps followed by Ossining (16%) and Tuckahoe in this period include the villages of Ardsley (10%). (129%), Rye Brook (128%), and Briarcliff Asians comprise six percent of the popu- Manor (105%). lation of the cities of White Plains, Rye and Population changes, however, are not Yonkers. The village of Ardsley claims the always in the plus column. Between 1970 and highest percentage of Asians (17%), followed 1990, Westchester County’s population actu- by Scarsdale (13%).and Elmsford (11%). ally went down. In the 1980 Census, all six (Asians include Japanese, Chinese, Koreans, Westchester cities lost population, as did all Pakistanis, Indians, Filipinos and Pacific villages with the exception of Briarcliff Manor. Islanders.) Continued on page 4 PAGE 4 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

FEATURE Westchester’s Changing Demographics— CommunitySection Whites Soon to Be a Minority Continued from page 3 The population of Bronxville has gone down steadily since 1940. Mt. Palisades Hudson Named One of 100 Largest Vernon’s population similarly declined after reaching a high point in 1960. Yonkers reached a population high point in 1970 and has not attained that number again. Growth and decline are perfectly natural. Communities tend to go Registered Investment Advisors through cycles described as youth, a period characterized by growth, middle Tops $1 Billion Mark in Client Assets under Management age, a period of retrenchment, and old age, a time when older housing stocks need restoration or replacement; when traffic patterns change and neighborhoods decline. SCARSDALE, Founded in 1997, the firm invests in low-cost NY -- Palisades mutual funds, exchange traded funds, and alterna- Population Trends Hudson Asset Management L.P. was named tive investments including private equity, hedge A multicultural community with a racial and ethnic composition not America’s 83rd largest registered investment advisor funds, natural resources and real estate. unlike that of the United States, the 2010 Census showed major popula- by Financial Advisor, a leading magazine for finan- In 2010, Palisades Hudson was named to the tion groups in Westchester to be 57 percent white, 22 percent Hispanic, 13 cial professionals. The firm had $1.053 billion list of the nation’s largest 50 financial planners by percent black and five percent Asian. of total client assets under management as of InvestmentNews, an authoritative weekly trade What no census can reveal is the embarrassing statistic that Westchester December 31, 2010. newspaper. County’s administrative structure is glaringly redundant. Its property taxes A registered investment advisor (RIA) is a Palisades Hudson Asset Management is the are the highest of the 3,141 counties in the U.S. Moreover, New York has financial advisor registered with the Securities and sister firm to Palisades Hudson Financial Group some of the highest property taxes of any state in the nation. The effect Exchange Commission. (www.palisadeshudson.com), which offers estate high taxes plus heretofore unchecked annual tax rate increases have had on “We launched our asset management firm in planning, insurance consulting, retirement plan- population growth in Westchester is evidenced by the “white flight” that 1997, so it took us less than 13 years to reach the ning, cross-border planning, business valuation, has taken place over the past 20 years. $1 billion mark,” said Larry Elkin, CFP®, CPA, family office and business management, executive Although the federal government is responsible for controlling immi- the firm’s president. “I believe our growth shows financial planning, and tax services. Branch offices gration, the federal census counts residents--not their citizenship. Illegal that our clients have gotten solid, consistent results are in Atlanta and Ft. Lauderdale. immigrants pay no taxes and are a considerable drain on social services and from our individualized asset-allocation strategy.” the economy. Unfortunately, we have no firm count of their numbers either in the nation or in Westchester. The bottom line is this: Barring a change in national immigration policy CALENDAR and fertility rates, if population trends continue as they have in the recent It looks like past, by the time of the next census, 2020, one in every three Westchester former U.S. Rep. residents will be a Latino. Westchester’s minorities will become the new News & Notes from Northern Westchester John Hall who majority, and its dwindling white population will be a minority. By MARK JEFFERS represented parts of Northern Robert Scott is a semi-retired book publisher and former literary agent, editor, I am starting off with some Westchester and lost his re-election bid in 2010 and freelance writer. sad news to report as the Borders will not run again for Congress in 2012…maybe Bookstore in Mount Kisco is he will re-start the band Orleans, and hope he’s closing its doors and going out of “Still the One!” Mission Statement business; so run over and stock up Even though my thumb is certainly not green… ! e Westchester Guardian is a weekly newspaper devot- on items on your summer reading ed to the unbiased reporting of events and developments this sounds interesting. Hilltop Hanover Farms is list. On a lighter note, here’s this week’s “News and that are newsworthy and signi! cant to readers living in, presenting “Planning Your Late Season Vegetable and/or employed in, Westchester County. ! e Guardian Notes…” Garden,” on July 30th and with all the heat we’ve will strive to report fairly, and objectively, reliable informa- As a professional shopper, here is one of tion without favor or compromise. Our ! rst duty will be been having, we may only grow cactus, give them a my wife’s favorite summer events, the Katonah to the PEOPLE’S RIGHT TO KNOW, by the exposure call at 914-962-2368. Sidewalk Sale being held July 29th and 30th. The of truth, without fear or hesitation, no matter where the If you are interested in some electrifying music pursuit may lead, in the ! nest tradition of FREEDOM OF theme this year is Shop! Eat! and Enjoy! Yep, that come to Caramoor in Katonah on Friday July 29th THE PRESS. sounds like my wife… ! e Guardian will cover news and events relevant to where musician-composer Gabriel Kahane (piano, It looks like Bedford is going to the dogs… the residents and businesses all over Westchester County. As a voice, banjo, electric guitar, loops) and cellist Alisa weekly, rather than focusing on the immediacy of delivery town board has authorized the town clerk to sell Weilerstein team up to perform Kahane’s own more associated with daily journals, we will instead seek to 50 non-resident dog park permits to the Canine compositions and unaccompanied cello works by provide the broader, more comprehensive, chronological step-by-step ac- Commons Dog Park, sounds like a “ruff ” deal to counting of events, enlightened with analysis, where appropriate. Bach and Britten. The concert begins at 8:00pm in me… From amongst journalism’s classic key-words: who, what, when, where, the Spanish Courtyard. why, and how, the why and how will drive our pursuit. We will use our more Here is one way to stay cool… Go check out There is a new opportunity to learn how to abundant time, and our resources, to get past the initial ‘spin’ and ‘damage Yorktown Stage’s presentation of “Little Shop of control’ o" en characteristic of immediate news releases, to reach the very skate in the Chappaqua area. The New Castle / Horrors,” playing through July 31st. Call 914-962- heart of the matter: the truth. We will take our readers to a point of under- Pleasantville Skate Park is hosting beginner skate standing and insight which cannot be obtained elsewhere. 0606 for more information. lessons for children over the age of five, starting To succeed, we must recognize from the outset that bigger is not neces- And they’re bringing down the curtain in on August 22nd through August 26th. Another sarily better. And, furthermore, we will acknowledge that we cannot be all Thornwood… as the Mount Pleasant Community things to all readers. We must carefully balance the presentation of relevant, group of five sessions for beginners is scheduled Theatre will present “Curtains” at Westlake High hard-hitting, Westchester news and commentary, with features and columns to take place August 9th to September 2nd. The useful in daily living and employment in, and around, the county. We must School starting July 29th. stay trim and # exible if we are to succeed. Continued on page 5 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 5

CALENDAR News & Notes from Northern Westchester >OLU^HZ[OLSHZ[[PTL Continued from page 4 natural light, consolidating computer cost for these lessons is $85 for resi- terminals, and a fresh look to the room used dents and $102 for non-residents. There by thousands of children a year. A Friends `V\KLHS[^P[O is also a Summer Skate Park Camp for of the Library Steering Committee is plan- slightly more advanced skaters, so if you ning fundraisers, such as rafﬂes, a dinner are like me, and are not the most agile dance, and a concert this fall. The library is 3L_PUN[VU*HWP[HS(ZZVJPH[LZ& person, stick to the beginner lessons! For a very important part of the community, so more information, call 914-315-1464. it is vital to come together and reach out! To I know the idea of cooking dinner can learn more or to make a donation contact seem like a daunting chore and incon- steering committee co-chairwomen Linda venient in lieu of the nine million other Gironda at 914-962-6036 or Sara Jo things going on, but what if you could learn Karger at 914-528-5180. how to make something exciting would We are off to the Cape this week, and you come?! Come to the Somers Library, will bring back sand, shells and sunburn for Reis Park, on Route 139 to engage in an all our friends, see you in two weeks… interactive and lively cooking demonstra- Mark Jeffers successfully spearheaded the tion, while learning to make delicious launch in 2008 of MAR$AR Sports & meals using Chinese vegetables. This Entertainment LLC. As president he has seen delectable event is be presented by Norma rapid growth of the company with the signing Chang on July 30th at 12:30pm. Register of numerous clients. His professional activi- online at www.somerslibrary.org or call ties include being local host and producer of 914-232-5717. This event is sponsored by the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. Mr. Jeffers the Friends of the Somers Library. is an adjunct professor in the Sport Business And speaking of libraries… the John Management Program at Manhattanville C. Hart Memorial Library in Yorktown College and serves on their Advisory board. has started fundraising to revamp their He currently resides in Bedford Hills with his Children’s Room in order to increase wife Sarah and three girls, Kate, Amanda and program space, including a self-checkout, Claire. shifting ﬁxtures to make better use of

ECONOMICS Europe Accepts a Little Reality By LARRY M. ELKIN Europe’s top financial its results be withheld. chieftains acknowledged a Markets did not react favorably to formerly unspeakable truth the seemingly good news about Europe’s yesterday (July 22, 2011): banking sector, because the latest tests, Greece cannot, now or ever, like the round conducted a year earlier, fully repay the money it borrowed under lacked credibility. In the rose-tinted “worst false pretenses. case” scenario envisioned by the regula- >P[OV]LY`LHYZL_WLYPLUJL3L_PUN[VU*HWP[HS(ZZVJPH[LZ The world did not end. There was no tors, no European nation would default panic in the streets. In fact, markets rallied on its sovereign debt, and a passing grade WYV]PKLZ SVHUZ MYVT T T H[ ZVTL VM [OL SV^LZ[ on the news, which is not really news to required only a 5 percent capital ratio. PU[LYLZ[YH[LZH]HPSHISLPU[OLTHYRL[WSHJL anyone who has watched the Greek finan- Out in the real world, where people cial tragedy unfold over the past 18 months. decide where to invest their own money, -VYJHZOÅV^PUNSVHUZ567,9:65(3.<(9(5;,, There has been no shortage of people the Basel standards for capital adequacy willing to speak truth to power as the call for a minimum 7 percent ratio effec- `LHYWH`V\[Z Greek crisis dragged on. The problem has tive in 2013. In that same real world, not 0U[VUS`SVHUZH]HPSHISL been that power was unwilling to speak only is Greece considered a high default truth to itself. risk – so high that it currently must pay Just a week ago, European regulators 35 percent to borrow money for two years announced that only eight banks failed a – but Ireland and Portugal already require second round of continent-wide stress tests support from fellow Europeans, and Spain 3L_PUN[VU*HWP[HS(ZZVJPH[LZ33* designed to determine whether the banks and Italy are not looking so robust either. hold enough capital to survive a worst-case European banks hold about $140 5VY[O(]LU\L financial scenario. A ninth bank among the billion in Greek government debt. Most of 5L^9VJOLSSL5@ 91 tested, German-based Helaba, would that is owned by Greek banks, which could 7OVUL MH_ have flunked, but the bank demanded that Continued on page 6 PAGE 6 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

ECONOMICS Europe Accepts a Little Reality the debt. In that case, default is period in which the country is deemed chafe at the loss of sovereignty and self- still inevitable; it just means that to be in default will be kept as short as determination. Recent rioting in the streets Continued from page 5 German taxpayers would be the possible. The debt will be restructured in the sort of chafing I’m talking about, be wiped out if their government defaults ones taking the losses. during that time to give Greece more though the intensity of the resentment (depending on the terms and nature of the Naturally, this does not sit well with time to pay what it owes and to incur probably will diminish with time. default), and which are already dependent German taxpayers, or with those in other lower interest costs in the interim. Other It is possible to ignore reality for a on the European Central Bank for the European countries that may be asked to European nations will guarantee a portion time, sometimes for a long time, but it is funding they need to stay in business. The pitch in to cover Athens’ unpaid debts. of the Greek debt. After the restructuring, never possible to hide from it. Yesterday’s ECB allows the Greek banks to post their This is why German Chancellor Angela Greece will be expected to stay current on breakthrough was simply the acknowledg- Greek government bonds as collateral in Merkel, in particular, has insisted that its debt payments without have to borrow ment of what it will really take to get the exchange for that funding. The Greeks private lenders at least share in the “haircut” new money to pay off old loans. This will Greek drama to its final act. accumulated much of this debt after they that somebody will have to take. allow it to escape the “default” label, and joined the euro currency union, during So yesterday’s reported agreement will let it do business with the ECB once which time Greece regularly hid its poor among the major players is a step forward. again. fiscal condition. Germany and other nations would take on Default is as close as a sovereign Larry M. Elkin, CPA, CFP®, president The ECB has been adamant, or was more of the Greek risk, but they would not state can get to being declared bankrupt. of Palisades Hudson Financial Group a fee- until yesterday, that no default is permis- accept 100 percent of the losses. Someone Bankruptcy is not a happy condition, but it only financial planning firm headquartered in sible. This protects the ECB’s own financial else is going to have to accept less prin- isn’t the end of the world either. Creditors Scarsdale, NY. The firm offers estate planning, position, since a default would drive down cipal or lower interest than they originally have to accept less than they are owed. insurance consulting, trust planning, cross-border the value of those Greek bonds that the bargained for. This will lead to Greece Debtors have to sacrifice current assets planning, business valuation, family office and ECB holds as collateral. Of course, out in being declared in default. or future earnings to allow creditors to business management, executive financial plan- the real world, the value of those bonds has The ECB may or may not continue recover as much as is reasonable in the ning, and tax services. Its sister firm, Palisades already been driven down, since everyone to finance the Greek banking system after circumstances. Hudson Asset Management, is an indepen- but the ECB has concluded that default default is official. I think the most likely For a country like Greece, bound by dent investment advisor with about $950 is inevitable unless some deep-pocketed outcome is that a default will be deemed currency and treaty to its neighbors, and million under management. Branch offices are backer, like Germany, decides to guarantee to be “selective,” or partial, and that the unable to unilaterally renounce obligations in Atlanta and Ft. Lauderdale. Website:www. like Argentina did a decade ago, default palisadeshudson.com. is going to mean having future austerity enforced by outsiders. Greeks are likely to A HIGHER POWER However, if I would pontificate 1/10 of the time about the smell of broccoli in A Farewell to the 50’s the house I would not have to worry about REV. JAMES L. SNYDER smelling broccoli in the house. If you know what I mean. Whoever said, “All But if it is good, it seems to go by so very good things must come to quickly. This past week something very good an end,” knew whereof he came to a very conclusive end. Through no spoke. Why is it that some- effort of my own, I concluded the fifth thing really good goes by decade of my life. I am just glad that at the so quickly and something really bad hangs conclusion of this decade I was around to see around forever, or so it seems. it. What I remember about the 50s is another Let me explain a little bit of what I mean. matter altogether. When the Gracious Mistress of the As part of the baby boomer generation, Parsonage, over my vociferous objections, another birthday boomed for me. This boom cooks broccoli, the smell stays in the air for was a very significant one. I have bidden a months. However, the invigorating aroma fond farewell to my 50s. Ah, what a decade of an Apple fritter dissipates in a matter of that was. It is a very good thing that the 50s moments. Except, of course, when I’m trying come between the 40s and the 60s. Whoever to eat one behind you know whose back and devised this scenario knew something about she can smell it five days before I eat it. human nature. “I don’t smell an Apple fritter do I?” she When you are in your 40s, you, for some inquires. unknown reason, think you are still in your “You’re not eating an apple fritter?” she 20s. Many people in their 40s have bought prods. into the notion that the 40s is the new 20s. “There better not be any apple fritters in Henceforth, most people, usually men, treat this house,” she demands. their body as if it was a 25-year-old man in My philosophy is simply this, what she perfect health. Now, a 45-year-old body does can smell can’t hurt me. The only problem is, not have the wisdom to realize that it is no she can smell, and usually it’s a rat, namely longer 25. And so you have men in their 40s me. Continued on page 7 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 7

A HIGHER POWER A Farewell to the 50’s been a wonderful time for me. It is during the I can say is, hallelujah for the empty nest The Bible gives him instructions about 50-something the man accomplishes most syndrome. I just hope some doctor does getting older. Continued from page 6 of his work. During his 40s, he is trying to not come up with a cure for this empty nest “The glory of young men is their running and jumping and doing things that pretend he is still in his 20s, but by the time syndrome. strength: and the beauty of old men is the their body thinks it can do but it really can’t. he hits that magic 50, he is more interested The empty nest syndrome is God’s grey head” (Proverbs 20:29 KJV). A body in the 40s is not mature enough in accomplishing things in his career. Work way of saying thank you for bringing up “The hoary [grey] head is a crown of for pain to register. In fact, no man in his 40s is very important at this phase of life. your family. Now, the house is all quiet and glory, if it be found in the way of righteous- would acknowledge the fact that he has the And work he does, because at this stage when I go to the refrigerator, there is actually ness” (Proverbs 16:31 KJV). pain. His wife, contrariwise, acknowledges he has a mortgage, a family and bills coming something in the refrigerator. Sometimes I I bid a fond farewell to the 50s. Thanks the pain in her life. But that’s another story. out both his back pockets faster than it goes just open the refrigerator door and stare at for the memories. Once a man gets into his 50s, he has in. If he has children, he enters the 50s with the contents. It is wonderful to go to the The Rev. James L. Snyder is pastor of the matured enough to the fact that he knows several teenagers in the house and maybe refrigerator and actually find something in there are many things he physically cannot Family of God Fellowship, 1471 Pine Road, some grandchildren. This is enough to drive it you can eat. Ocala, FL 34472. He lives with his wife, do. He knows, for instance, a 50-something any man to work, if not crazy. For any man It has been a little difficult for me to say body is not like a 20-something body, there- Martha, in Silver Springs Shores. Call him at to conclude the fifth decade without perma- farewell to the 50s. I have enjoyed every year 352-687-4240 or e-mail jamessnyder2@att. fore, he can begin slacking off on the physical nent residence in the Looney farm is quite of that decade. I am not prepared to say that stuff. Although, some 50-something men net. The church web site is www.whatafellow- an accomplishment. I am any wiser but I am prepared to say I am ship.com. have not matured enough to understand the By the mid-50s, things begin to become older. And my goal in life is to get older and significance of the fifth decade. all quiet on the Western front. Many people older. Because, when you stop getting older But in spite of all of that, the 60s have refer to this as the empty nest syndrome. All it is all over. ( 6&DU6HUYLFH 6HUYLQJ:HVWFKHVWHU&RXQW\ 0DNHXVDSDUWRI\RXUWUDYHOSODQV Casual Hate—The Subtle Side of Christian Persecution By RAYMOND IBRAHIM 352)(66,21$/ 5(/,$%/( 3520376(59,&(352)(66,21$/ 5(/,$%/( 3520376(59,&( $LUSRUWV&LW\7ULSV2XWRI7RZQ Replicated with sentiment is to the Muslim world, so almost tailor-made for him: I was duly express permission of the much so that Christians themselves have informed—that is, reminded—that best &RUSRUDWH$FFRXQWV:HOFRPH author. First published almost become immune to it, expecting it, jobs are reserved for Muslims. in FrontPageMagazine. reserving their actual complaints for times One refined-looking woman expressed /LQFROQ7RZQ&DUV com on July 20, 2011; of physical persecution (including but not Continued on page 8 http://www.meforum.org/2993/ limited to Islamist-inspired theft, kidnap- christian-persecution ping, rape, church attacks, etc.). Earlier this month I participated In other words, if the formal speeches in Coptic Solidarity’s Second Annual held at the Capitol documented the Conference in Washington D.C., titled: hostility and discrimination Christians “Will Religious and Ethnic Minorities Pay face under Islam, the informal conversa- the Price of the ‘Arab Spring’?” Panelists tions, held over food and drink, drove the included Middle East specialists, promi- point home. nent members of the Coptic community, Thus one Coptic businessman and other minority leaders from the complaining about how he lost a legal case Muslim world, including Kurds, Berbers, in Egypt, though he was clearly in the and Sudanese animists. right, was quickly interrupted by the grin- Held at the U.S. Capitol, nine ning fellow across him, who asked whether members of Congress made statements his opponent was Muslim or Christian; and showed their support, including Sue when the businessman, rather coyly, said Myrick, Chris Smith, and Frank Wolf. Muslim, everyone laughed knowingly, Walid Phares, a Congressional advisor some even suggesting he was a fool for who also participated, asserted that their even going to court. appearance is encouraging and indicates A women discussing her baby’s erratic that at least some members of Congress sleeping habits revealed why: the mosque “are aware about the plight of minorities next door, which always blasts Koranic in general and of Christian communities verses on the megaphone around 4 a.m., in the Arab and Muslim world, and are constantly wakes him up in terror and particularly concerned about the Islamist tears; and though the baby does not under- and jihadi threat to these communities.” stand the words, the mother does, pointing Because the conference spanned two out that most of the verses being blared are days, I spent lots of time surrounded by especially hostile to Christians, like 5: 17, Christian minorities. The casual anecdotes 5:51, and 9:29. I heard, spoken not with outrage—the Any number of Copts looked at me province of the privileged—but simply incredulously when I inquired why a well as backdrops to more mundane stories, qualified Copt did not bother applying to revealed how endemic anti-Christian an important post in Egypt that seemed PAGE 8 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

COMMUNITY Casual Hate—The Subtle Side of Christian Persecution Other stories were spoken with stoic unfathomable gap between the few reserve. I have in mind the cigarette- formal reports on Christian persecution Continued from page 7 in the restroom told me—between fits puffing Assyrian couple from Iraq, who reaching a few American politicians, and her resignation: though a Christian, she of laughter—how he once tried to use a had lost everything to the unloosed forces the daily reality experienced by millions of sometimes wears the burqa in Egypt, mosque bathroom in Egypt; when the of jihad—their home, their relatives, their Christians under Islam. simply so she can go about her daily busi- Muslims discovered he was a Christian, business, their savings—and are trying to Raymond Ibrahim, a Shillman Fellow at ness without being sexually-harassed, they chased him out, throwing shoes at begin anew in America. Interesting was the the DHFC, is a widely published author on molested, called derogatory names, or spat him and calling him a “son of a bitch.” man’s lament, that gone are the “good old Islam, and an Associate Fellow at the Middle upon (this recent story certainly validates Indeed, a resigned sense of humor days”—under Saddam—when Christians East Forum. her reasoning). seemed to pervade many of these stories— were afforded some protection. Some anecdotes were spoken in jest: as if to say, “Since there’s nothing we can As I listened to all these stories, I one rather colorful Copt I bumped into do about it, let’s make light of it.” thought to myself, here is the great and Love Hate Love Documents the Journey of the Peter C. Alderman Foundation By Rich Monetti When Steve and Liz Alderman lost their son Peter at the WTC on 9/11, they almost immediately searched for a fitting manner to remember him. Randomly learning that there are hundreds of millions around the world who suffer severe mental illness due to torture, war and terrorism, the Bedford couple began the Peter C. Alderman Foundation to address this global epidemic. Ten years later, their story has received worldwide recogni- tion and is the subject of a new documentary that has one of Hollywood’s most famous memorial committee right after 9/11 and him,” she says, “he was very, very interested “Its excellence is to me demonstrated by actors as its executive producer. found it rife with greed, politics and power and pleased to executive produce.” the fact that it was accepted at Tribeca,” she Love Hate Love premiered at the Tribeca plays. As a result, they knew a proper remem- After all the preliminaries, the film- says, and the onslaught of questions from the Film Festival on April 26th before 900 brance would have to be done on their own. makers set out to bring home the message. festival’s audience speaks for itself. people and was followed with a Q&A with Out in San Francisco, NBC reporters They traveled to one of PCAF’s rehabilita- Otherwise, Love Hate Love isn’t neces- the Alderman’s, the two filmmakers and Dana Nachman and Don Hardy found the tive centers in Uganda to witness firsthand sarily an emotional journey the Alderman’s Sean Penn. “He’s a lovely guy,” says Mr. same type of negative vibe surrounding their a tragedy that is in no way isolated. “I think took after Peter’s death, but they certainly Alderman, but charm is from what truly coverage of memorial efforts. There had they were deeply affected,” she says. understand the concept the filmmakers were defines the actor/activist. been so much squabbling going on between At the same time, it was more than a after. In return, they hope recent recognitions “He lets his actions speak for him. He’s families that they really wanted to find some walk along side the shoes of their subjects. such as USAID’s upcoming case study on gone down to Haiti. He’s lived in the camps positive stories where love triumphed over “Don and Dana crawled inside our lives,” PCAF’s outreach into Liberia will become and spent huge amounts of time to guarantee hate, says Ms. Alderman. says Steve Alderman, and were with us every more common place. We’re advocating for people are doing better,” says the retired Through a mutual friend, Nachman and minute as we functioned over there, added our patients and raising awareness, he says. oncologist. Hardy were introduced to the Alderman’s. the retired oncologist. “That’s what’s important about the film.” In short, he adds, “He gives ‘til it hurts,” The film is not just about us, she says, it’s the As for the film’s effectiveness in Bringing it back to the beginning, Peter but interestingly, the film came about under intertwining of three stories with ours being conveying the tragedy and triumph of the Alderman no longer just lives in the memory very similar circumstances as the founda- the most prominent. foundation, Ms. Alderman feels she isn’t the of a legion of family, friends and individuals tion. The Alderman’s were involved in the Sean Penn wasn’t far behind as he was best to comment since she’s seen it so many helped in places like Haiti, Cambodia and affiliated with Hardy and Nachman from times and lives the life everyday. Instead, Africa. “Our daughter just gave birth to a their previously acclaimed documentary, Alderman defers to the festival’s interest in baby boy on April 7th and his name is Peter,” Witch Hunt. “When they brought this to the work. she says. One of five grandchildren, he’s the only one nearby and is very important to Steve %HIRUHVSHDNLQJWRWKHSROLFHFDOO and Liz, but given all the love and the story that now precedes him on celluloid, maybe *HRUJH:HLQEDXP someday many more will feel the same way. $77251(<$7/$: )5((&2168/7$7,21 Rich Monetti lives in Somers. He’s been a free- &ULPLQDO0HGLFDLG0HGLFDUH lance writer in Westchester since 2003 and works 3URIHVVLRQDO'RPLQLFDQ )UDXG :KLWH&ROODU &ULPH +DLUVW\OLVWV 1DLO7HFKQLFLDQV part time in the after school program at Mt. 7 +HDOWK &DUH 3URVHFXWLRQV /HPY*\[Z:[`SPUN>HZO :L[7LYTPUN Kisco Childcare. You can find more of his work at ) 7LKPJ\YL(JY`SPJ5HPSZ-PSS0UZ:PSR>YHWZ5HPS(Y[+LZPNUZ /PNOPNO[Z*VSVYPUN,_[LUZPVUZ4HUPJ\YL,`LIYV^>H_PUN www.happystories.info 0$,16768,7(:+,7(3/$,161<

COMMUNITY

biological raconteurs and reductionists such as Paul Greengard, Eric Kandel and Arvid Brain-Based Learning and The American Dream Carlsson, performance enhancement in all its vistas has been part of the goal of self-insight. By DAVID ANDERSON and the UsCORP Team From the African Savanna, through the Hanging Gardens of Babylon to the streets Twenty percent. That’s it – 20%! The new science of brain, the theory of causa- lot, even in the most dire circumstances. Is of New York City, happiness has always and number of people who commit to a personal tion and ultimate solution may have always there any scientific evidence to support the probably will always be the mistress of goal goal and ultimately achieve it. Whether one been omnipresent, merely awaiting a new hypothesis that our brains can biologically achievement. considers the early 20th century researchers generation to reinterpret it. Certainly the adapt to and overcome adversity? In this series of articles, we will explore such as Napoleon Hill and Joseph Rossman, ambiance in which these problems emerge From a genetic perspective, Nobel laure- the best scientific techniques of achieving Ph.D, who studied creativity whilst an does change. Can one conceivably compare ates Margaret McClintock and Francois these goals, whilst being mindful that people examiner at the United States Patent and our forefathers, hunter-gatherers being Jacob demonstrated the genetic flexibility as are not test tubes and so will also explore Trademark Office, or later researchers in the afforded the luxury of deciding when to a response to external stimuli. McClintock these ideas within the context of history, field of procrastination, the figure remains hunt for their next meal? Clearly, compared with her “jumping gene theory” demon- spirituality, philosophy and the arts. Until remarkably fixed. Fixed despite improve- to our forefathers, there is a difference in size strated how genes may respond to external then, dream big, but don’t forget to be part ment in education, competitiveness and and communication between the prefrontal stimuli in totally unexpected ways. Jacob on of the dream. self-psychology. Fixed, despite the huge cortex of our brains that control executive the other hand through his “operon” theory availability of therapists, and approximately function and our more emotional limbic demonstrated how genes by switching on six dozen psychoactive prescription medi- brain system, which is involved in a number and off control the proteins they synthesize. cations. When the bottom falls out of our of functions including memory acquisition. This in turn participates in how inheritance 401K’s, 403B’s and IRA’s it is unlikely that Whilst we cannot control the genes we manifests itself. In a way, external stimuli our elected politicians and financial advisers inherit, much like unwelcome relatives, how provide a “gymnasium” to exercise these UsCorp is a global consulting, training are going to be any more helpful than the they are expressed may be partially under genetic responses. and coaching company comprised of a team of aforementioned resources in either helping our control. Similarly, we may not be fully From the religious scriptures of the physicians, psychiatrists and business consul- us towards our goals or problem-solving. We in control of environmental factors, how we Bhagavad Gita, Psalms and the Gospels tants dedicated to translating the latest scientific may have even made a number of valiant respond however, may well be under our through the philosophical works of Kant research in the neurosciences, medicine, psychi- attempts but failed. Small wonder then, control. Don’t believe me – read some of and Bergson, the autobiographical tomes of atry, business management and leadership to when awakening at 3am on a regular basis the autobiographies of concentration camp Benjamin Franklin, Orison Swett Marsden enhance performance and innovation in the and feeling engulfed by a desert of pain and a survivors such as Dr Victor Frankl or look at and John Stuart Mill, the self-help icons corporate arena as well as our clients’ professional, myopic, distant oasis. Is there any hope? some of the interviewees in Steven Spielberg’s Napoleon Hill, Norman Vincent Peale and educational and personal lives. Contact Details: Ironically, King Solomon may have been Shoah Project. In short, there appears to be a Maxwell Maltz, the psychological explorers Website: http://www.uscorpn.com , eMail: on the money when he stated that there was wealth of biographic evidence that supports Sigmund Freud, Albert Ellis, Aaron Beck [email protected] , nothing new under the sun. In terms of the the hypothesis that we can improve our and Abraham Maslow, to the current Telephone: 914-500-1778.

MOVIE REVIEW Ed Koch Movie Reviews By Edward I. Koch

Movie Review: his employees. He gets Nick to work from The plot contains twists and turns with sunrise to sunset by holding out the promise the three seeking to hire an assassin, Dean “Horrible Bosses” (-) of promoting him to Vice President while (Jamie Foxx). The zany antics reminded me The title is a misnomer. I would refer never expecting to keep that dangling of the three stooges who were popular long to it as “Horrible Movie.” The picture has commitment. ago, but not with me. Nick, Dale and Kurt a marvelous cast and story, but the script Dale (Charlie Day) is a dental assis- engage in similar bickering and slapping of disintegrates early on. Apparently a deci- tant whose employer, Dr. Harris (Jennifer one another. sion was made that if the language was Aniston), constantly wants to have sex with The film is simply terrible. That such sufficiently blue or worse, and the slapstick him. Because he is engaged to be married respectable actors would lend themselves to aspects were expanded to the maximum, to Stacy (Lindsay Sloane), he rejects her this a movie is surprising. We should all be the picture would attract a large audience. advances. saddened by the obvious reduction in taste It has. The Friday night I saw the film, it The third distressed employee is and sensibility of the current generation of was sold out. Kurt ( Jason Sudeikis). When his beloved moviegoers. Three guys have huge problems with employer, Jack (Donald Sutherland), dies Watch Ed Koch’s Movie Reviews at www. their employers. Nick (Jason Bateman) of a heart attack, the firm is left to Jack’s MayorKoch.com. works for Dave (Kevin Spacey) who exploits vicious son, Bobby (Colin Farrell), who turns on Kurt and makes his life miserable. PAGE 10 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

MOVIE REVIEW

yelled “The mayor should pet the tiger.” I responded, “No.” The guest rejoined, “Is the mayor a coward?” I responded, “No, the mayor is not a coward and the mayor is not Ed Koch Movie Reviews a schmuck.” That’s Yiddish for fool. By Edward I. Koch

Movie Review: by instinct – bit his handlers. He inflicted his first five severe damage, e.g., 37 stitches to an arm, years of life. His first human mother fool- “Project Nim” (+) and tore out another’s cheek, which hospi- ishly got into the cage with him and was This is a fascinating documentary talized a woman for three months. All almost killed. Speculation was that Nim about a family with seven children raising lived and continued to treat this animal as was angry with her for having deserted a chimp in the 1970s. a human baby and later as a young child. him. Dr. Herbert Terrace, associated with As a young child, Nim was five times The humans involved in the film Columbia University, called on Stephanie stronger than an adult human male. He stand before cameras and talk as though LaFarge to mother a baby chimp named also had sexual feelings and sought to use they were on a couch speaking with their Nim on the fifth day of its life. Stephanie, a pet cat for such purpose. The cat could psychiatrist. It is eerie but overall the a sort of flower child in attitude, was not sign so we don’t know what it thought. picture is fascinating and worth seeing. delighted to do so. The project was a At the age of five when Nim was too When I was young, my mother told me scientific experiment to hopefully teach large and dangerous to keep in a home, never to fool around with a wild animal, sign language to the chimp enabling it to he was returned to the lab and placed in because they can sometimes kill. During communicate with humans. It worked. a cage. The doctor at the lab, who has a my mayoralty, I went with 25 or so busi- The chimp was also taught to stand on and German accent and assigned the animals nessmen to Madison Square Garden to use a toilet bowl. for HIV and other testing, reminded me celebrate its 100th anniversary. As enter- Before the experiment was over several of Dr. Mengele at Auschwitz saying, “You tainment, Gunther Gebel-Williams, with women, some experts in the field of to the right and you to the left.” his long flowing blond hair, performed animal science joined the project. During Nim, who lived for 26 years, was with his white Bengali tiger. When the that time Nim did what wild animals do visited by those who had raised him during tiger jumped onto a piano, one guest THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 11

MUSIC Festival International du Blues de Tremblant ;/,:6<5+:July 8th, 9th & 10th, 2011 6-)3<, A Jam Packed Weekend of Quality Blues, all for free! By Bob Putignano

This year I attended the last three songs included Tremblant Blues Fest which is a scorching slow blues located about ninety minutes instrumental that had my northwest of Montreal, hair standing on end, an Quebec. This was their eigh- incredible cover of Warren teenth edition, and my third Haynes’ “Soul Shine” visit in a row. Tremblant is a followed by blistering and quaint and beautiful village funky instrumental titled with excellent eating establish- “Buck Naked” which is ments, fine shopping, a casino, taken from McCray’s scenic sites, gondola’s, and excellent self titled 2007 during the beginning of July CD on Magnolia Records, it’s where you can hear some which if you don’t own; I very high quality blues for ten highly recommend it. I consecutive days, all for free! was hanging with WIZN’s Day one: Actually started Dana Fuchs Larry McCray DJ Charlie Frazier, and at 5:00pm as I witnessed Carl Tremblay the Dirty Dozen Brass Band took the huge crowd surrounding the stage, and we both concurred that charm the crowd with a very enjoyable stage, but had some unavoidable setbacks. performed a flawless set with his well McCray’s set was of the highest magni- mix of soul, funk, blues and a taste of jazz. First their sax player Kevin Harris had to honed and seasoned trio. tude, and wondered why an artist as solid By the way: Tremblay’s young flute player pull himself off the road due to his fathers Day three: John Campbelljohn was as McCray isn’t more well known. I can was excellent especially during her solo on passing, Roger Lewis’ baritone broke and so good on the first night that I decided tell you this, if there was another band Hendrix’ “Little Wing.” Next came Nina he played some kind of small sax, drummer to go back for a second helping; I was following McCray, I would not want to Attal from France who had a fine backing Terrence Higgins was not in attendance as not disappointed. I also enjoyed Delta follow him, he was that good. Kudos to band, Attal is quite the performer, charmer he’s currently touring with Warren Haynes. Moon’s set, but this was a slightly different festival promoter Brian Slack for bringing

John Campbell Nina Attal Taj Majal Dana Fuchs Delta Moon and looker, and rocked Needless to configuration than I had seen when McCray and company to Tremblant, they solidly. Unfortunately say this all Delta Moon won the International Blues both hit the ball out of the park! Note: the weather Gods changed the Competition in Memphis. Nonetheless, I Any festival promoter should be aware did not shine upon dynamics really enjoy their swampy blues rock and of McCray’s intensity and talents, as this us as Tinsley Ellis hit of the band. jammy sounds, as did many of those in the band will deliver a powerful punch to those the stage, Ellis’s trio But none of crowd. Eric Bibb’s set was excellent, but who attend your event(s.) Amen. sounded sharp, but the this deterred I also really enjoyed his workshop earlier So there you have it, another fine year rains drove me back to their fearless as well. Dana Fuchs was quite a bit over of good blues from Tremblant. Here’s my room early. leader Efrem the top for me, her screeching vocals and to number nineteen in 2012. By the way Day two: I enjoyed Towns to her band just didn’t work for my ears. these good folks are also beginning their Rick Taylor’s set, charge on But the best was yet to come from the preparations for their twentieth in 2013. and then really got and deliver Michigan based veteran Larry McCray. As always, thanks much to the entire knocked out by John one mighty Larry literally blew the crowd away with Tremblant team, especially to Catherine Campbelljohn’s perfor- fine set, an incredible tour de force set. His four LaCasse who treats me so well! Until mance. Campbelljohn John Campbell complete piece band was totally in synch with each next year keep checking their web site for ZZZ7UHPEODQW%OXHVFRP plays a mean slide with authority, and it with the Big other as well. But make no doubt about updates at: was a joy to watch his band jam hard for Easy funk you’d expect from these veteran it, McCray’s powerful vocals and searing Bob Putignano www.SoundsofBlue.com a little over an hour. Later in the evening masters from the Crescent City. At the guitar wowed the crowd, as evidenced by other end of the village Taj Mahal had a at least four standing ovations. McCray’s PAGE 12 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

SHOW PREP

whenever I thought it might help people, the meds are often over prescribed by doctors is what life is and I am a bit under the gun in either individually, or in that way that sheds for simple life stressors, the nonsense spewed several areas and have been for some time. I Barbarian at the Gate light on a taboo subject. I talk about it on the by the media about their dangers…such as ame holding up fine and will be fine. But the show all the time, and at the insistence of teen suicide etc., in my view, have killed far man is at the door. By BOB MARRONE one of my old doctors, I have finally begun more people through suicide than ever hurt A minor mistake becomes a serious While I was pondering work on a book about the experience. But themselves by taking them. The longest matter; a troubling thought lingers; a love what to write about this this, putting it in writing for the first time, lasting component, though, is the tool set you affair that has issues is now feeling irretriev- week, the topic found me. somehow seems permanent and defining in take out of talk therapy and into life. ably lost; contentious conversations become Better yet, it revisited me, as a way that I worry will alter perceptions of For me, who had the bad fortune to marathon contests that can never be won; it does every once in a great me as a person. But a promise is a promise, become ill before SSRI’s, the talk therapy and a Hallmark commercial suddenly makes while. We first met 30 years ago, when I was even to oneself; and, indeed, it is exactly that was the cornerstone and it saved my life, as you get a tear in your eye. At first it seems charging hard into adulthood, accompanied stigma which I intend to dispel here and well as channeled me onto a successful one. normal…but it’s not, at least for you. And by a new wife, baby and a bag full of neuroses now. The illness is not defining, or defiling; But I will tell you without reservation…and then you know. It’s time to break out the owing to an unusual childhood. and treated properly, not only it ca not only this is for people suffering right now who tools. Here are some: Get out of your head. The initial encounter was harsh, terri- be beaten, but short circuited, as well. may be looking for my “credentials”…in the Address what is really bothering you head- fying and life altering. Over four years I The specifics of my life at the present extremes of agitation and despair, medication on. Know that you can’t have closure on was to lose and slowly regain forty pounds, time are only as relevant as the cause of an is almost always essential. Not that people everything at once. Don’t break your routine manage obsessions, confront phobias, lose accident that breaks one’s leg. It helps to have not survived without it, of course they or appointments. If you need help, get help. and regain the ability to concentrate and, know, but only in so far as your doctor may have. But the pain, guilt, agitation, racing If you need meds ask for them. Most of all, ultimately, to learn myself and set of skills need it to address treatment. Dealing with thoughts and anxiety are indescribable to know it will pass. that would benefit me for a lifetime. Because the pain, and forestalling a future incident are those who do not know it, and frequently Finally, for the millions of people who of the medical bills, I remained in debt until I more fungible and pretty universal. fatal. I have often said, and I mean it no less struggle with this and the few who might was 38 years old. For those just hit with it, the modern today: Give me a choice of breaking all four read this column, we need to share these We are talking, here, about depression. treatments of medication, usually SSRI’s of my limbs with a bat, or going through the experiences and let others know that they are This is an awkward moment. I have (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) worst of depression again for one day. I will not alone, that there is help, and that the odds promised myself for years that when I finally combined with talk therapy, or some combi- choose the Louisville Slugger every time. are with us. got established in the non-corporate media nation of both, are quite effective. And while That said, more now about today and tools. So, I am off to the tool shed. More world that I would share what happened Most of us who get over the big first bout, importantly, I have kept a promise. will occasionally get a visit, or two, years later. Bob Marrone is a radio host on WVOX-1460 It is almost always never as bad, because the AM. He hosts Good Morning America. Listen to mere exercise of beating it precludes a serious the show every morning, from 6:00 to 9:00 every event, and the more insight one develops, the Monday to Friday, by way of video streaming easier it is to recognize the signs and prevent on www.wvox.com. any real damage. This brings us to today. Life EYE ON THEATRE Not So Grim Reaper By John Simon Back in 1934, when the Hollywood movie Death Takes a Holiday opened, the New York Times critic, Mordaunt Hall (a playwright himself), called it “a really intelligent fantasy.” It was based on a 1928 Italian play by Alberto Casella (not known for anything else), and was successful despite the word “death” in its title, supposed to be anathema at the box office. That it wasn’t in this case was due, Hall speculated, to the close proximity of “holiday.” The new musical on the same mate- rial still has both words in its title, and the words will have to battle it out once again. Never mind the title, though; what really matters are the music and lyrics by Maury Yeston, and the book by Thomas Meehan and Peter Stone; the latter, alas, victim of Photography and idea by Geof Kern; Creative death not having taken a holiday. Direction by Drew Hodges, Vinny Sainato Continued on page 13 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 13

EYE ON THEATRE Not So Grim Reaper Alice Lamberti, Roberto’s fairly merry set by one of today’s best Casella’s play, written widow, and Eric’s teen-aged sister, Daisy, designers, Derek McLane, soon enough after World Continued from page 12 played rather insufferably by Alexandra which, though elegant, is War One, in which Italy The story of the musical concerns Socha. Her crush on Sirki adds subplot, somewhat hampered by incurred so many casual- Death’s capricious decision to spend a as does the creation of a jolly Doctor having to stand in for too ties, was partly meant to weekend in mufti among mortals, to find Dario Albione, permanent house guest of many outdoor and indoor reconcile people to early out why they are all so afraid of him, and the Lambertis and long-time unrequited locations. Metallic spiral death. The musical might what life and love and hope are (until late in Act Two) staircases at extreme right have played more effec- all about and why so precious. suitor of Grazia’s grandma, and left, however, do Joy Hermalyn, Julian Ovenden, tively here too during He comes to the North Italian the Vietnam War. Even Contessa Evangelina Di make impressive contribu- Linda Balgord and Patricia Noonan lakeside villa of Duke Vittorio San Danielli, another tions. Catherine Zuber’s now, though, it is at least and Duchess Stephanie permanent resident. costumes are opulently superior to much of its Lamberti, where he falls Incidentally, the occa- period, and Kenneth competition. into amply reciprocated love sionally dropped Italian Posner’s lighting almost John Simon has written for with their daughter Grazia.. word, like “Contessa,” makes up for the absence over 50 years on theatre, He arrives as the dashing is supposed to add of a visible lake. The fine film, literature, music and Russian Count Nikolai Sirki authenticity. director, Doug Hughes, fine arts for the Hudson (only the Duke is supposed The complicated plot- in his first go at a musical, Review, New Leader, New to know who he really is, ting—and I haven’t even comes through respectably. Criterion, National Review, though in this version two Julian Ovenden mentioned the butler There is first-class Matt Cavenaugh, Mara Davi, New York Magazine, Opera others do too), which elicits Fidele, whom the musical work from most of the Max von Essen, Alexandra Socha, News, Weekly Standard, almost more comedy than turns into a crass comic star-studded supporting Rebecca Luker, Michael Siberry, Broadway.com and drama and provides us with figure, specially so in cast, notably Michael Patricia Noonan, Simon Jones and Bloomberg News. Mr. Simon a couple of hours of pleasant Don Stephenson’s perfor- Siberry (Duke), Rebecca Linda Balgord holds a PhD from Harvard albeit not quite transcendent mance—has, I repeat, Luker (Duchess), Matt University in Comparative entertainment. positive and negative Cavenaugh (Eric), Mara Linn (Alice), Literature and has taught at MIT, Harvard One problem may be aspects. Another innova- Linda Balgord (Contessa), and Simon University, Bard College and Marymount that the show was almost tion is not turning Death Jones (Albione). Peter Pucci’s dances meet Manhattan College. To learn more, visit more rewritten than written. at any time into a sinister, the modest choreographic demands of the JohnSimon-Uncensored.com website. Casella’s play was rewritten black-hooded figure, but what is after all a chamber musical. for the American stage by letting it be throughout Photography by and courtesy of Joan Marcus. Walter Ferris, then rewritten the good-looking leading for the American screen by man, Britain’s Julian a team of two, one of whom Ovenden, a splendid bari- was Maxwell Anderson, and Julian Ovenden and Mara tone but somewhat less IAA gave me a road map on getting into a now reworked by Peter Stone Davi compelling actor. and, upon his death, further Neither Ovenden nursing school and !nishing my degree by Thomas Meehan. The nor the attractive Jill successfully. "ey helped me realize my movie contains a good deal Paice, who though of Andersonian poeticizing. accomplished is a bit too dream to become a Registered Nurse. The musical’s book is tall for him, fully conveys happily free from most of love at first sight, chem- that, and also fairly different, istry that can mitigate which is both for the good a certain lack in the and, at times, not so good. writing, There are also We get, for example, a further inconsistencies Prepare subplot in which Grazia had Alexandra Socha and Max von in the plot that perhaps for Essen Nursing School a brother, Roberto, who died can, in a fantasy, be in the Great War and whose overlooked. army buddy Sirki claims to What counts most, have been. (A Russian prince of course, is the score. IAA has helped over in the Italian army?) It also Musically, it is consis- their R.N. education Infosession introduces an American, tently good enough, Thursday 8/4 doughty Major Eric Fenton, although only intermit- & &! Visit us anytime truly Roberto’s buddy (what tently and fleetingly "!" !! !! from 9am to 7pm. is this, the International memorable. The lyrics, ! !" " Please RSVP @ Brigade?), who disputes the in fact, slightly lag &%# $ & " claim of the Prince and finds [email protected] behind the tunes which, $ !"! ! ! looking into his eyes deeply if not up to Yeston’s disturbing. Julian Ovenden and Jill Paice Nine, can compete with There were in the movie those of his Grand Hotel two other young women chez Lamberti, and Titanic. friends of Grazia’s, who fell for the Prince. Visually, the show consists of a unit 1032 6th Ave. (bw 38th & 39th St.) 4th Fl, NYC | www.iaaprograms.com In the musical, they are the American PAGE 14 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

COMMUNITY THEATRE

long he can keep the secret of his crime. His undoing comes in the guise of a play Complex; Powerful: Hamlet at the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival within a play – a dramatic device showing By ABBY LUBY off Shakespeare’s genius. Claudius realizes that Hamlet knows of the murder when When Matthew viewing the play with Gertrude. It is a Amendt, as Hamlet in the play that, by Hamlet’s instructions, shows Hudson Valley Shakespeare the re-enactment of his father’s murder. Festival (HSVF) production, The scene empowers us, the audience, speaks the famed line – “To with more knowledge than the most of the be or not to be, that is the question” – it’s characters on the stage. not your typical dramatic pronouncement The complexity of Hamlet is skill- but rather an intuitive, soul searching fully handled by O’Brien who clearly lets question, one that is pivotal to the multiple us witness and contemplate the colliding strains of mental anguish that drive the things on the bare stage that change are a Polonius, councilor to King Claudius, to themes of transformation, life and death. bard’s most celebrated tragedy. Amendt’s single prop or two; the backdrop consisting reject Hamlet’s love, she becomes agitated This rich work of Shakespeare still straightforward, expressive delivery is in of costumes of solid colors comprised of and later obsessively sings what seems to intensely exemplifies the intricacies of keeping with the tone of this production simple lines. be a nonsensical but prescient song, frenet- human nature, good and evil. The HVSF’s so adeptly directed by Terrence O’Brien, When the silver helmeted ghost of ically pacing the stage. Mudek’s Ophelia production is a must see. Performances are artistic Director of HVSF. In the festival’s the murdered King Hamlet appears, he offers an unblemished innocence that under an open-air tent theater perched 25-year history, this is the very first time is seen bound by a rope around his neck, becomes corrupted not only by Polonius, high atop the banks of the Hudson River Hamlet has been performed. the end held by a cloaked, grim reaper. In adroitly played by Richard Ercole, but by on the grounds of the historic 19th century, O’Brien approaches the play head on. a thunderous, amplified voice, the ghost the overall, pervasive gloom of revenge. elegant Boscobel Estate in Garrison, New There are no frills or distractions in this tells Hamlet of his murder. Shocked by Without Hamlet’s love, Ophelia faces her York, replete with dramatic views of the sparsely staged production that pays great the truth, Hamlet has a sudden, fore- own demise, madness and ultimate death. Hudson Highlands. The grounds are open homage to the words of those powerful boding insight to life and death. On his Hamlet’s mother, Queen Gertrude two hours early so audiences can enjoy a characters. In his director’s notes O’Brien path of revenge, he learns to control his is played by Gabra Zackman, who is picnic repast. points to the myriad of productions of madness as he teeters between lunacy and wonderfully credible in her vacillation For tickets HVSF office, (845) Hamlet that seek to recreate the play and sanity, keeping the audience glued to the between happiness with her new husband, 265-7858 or check their website: www. make it more original by using “conceptual words that will reveal his changing state and sorrow over Hamlet’s depression and hvshakespeare.org wrappers.” This production truly changes of mind. Amendt’s mad Hamlet, sports his ensuing insanity. Gertrude is repellant gears; HVSF is known for uniquely crazed, spiked hair and rambling phrases to Hamlet because of her hasty marriage Abby Luby is a freelance journalist who has dressing up a Shakespeare play with wild seem both incoherent and mocking when on the heels of his father’s death to his covered the Indian Point nuclear power and off-beat interpretations – its part of pronouncing the complexity and nuance of father’s brother, King Claudius, played by plant in New York for over eight years, and their great appeal to sold-out audiences double entendres. Jason O’Connell. Hamlet both condemns the author of the forthcoming ebook, Nuclear every summer. The wispy Ophelia, poignantly played and forgives his mother because “frailty, Romance, a novel about nuclear dangers in But for Hamlet, the trappings are by Valeri Mudek, is first giddy with her love thy name is woman.” New York. www.abbylu.com simple. The subliminal, more traditional for Hamlet, her yet unshackled demeanor O’Connell plays the guilty king with sound track uses plaintiff, ominous percus- gracing the stage with delicate movements. an unwavering, sharp cunning and blatant sion and minimal sound effects. The only When she is convinced by her father pride over his ascent to the throne, as GovernmentSection slated for the Community Development those units to include that extra bedroom residents to stores or parent-teacher confer- Block Grant (CDBG) after the County’s will raise the cost of this project by an extra ences. In essence, HUD wants to re-negotiate Fair Housing analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing $94.3 million. Even if you aren’t into forensic the settlement with Westchester County. By By NANCY KING Choice was rejected (again). accounting, you can clearly see that this will stripping the County of over $4 million in So what is the Fed’s beef this time? It bankrupt the project and thereby prevent its funding and by ordering Westchester to pay With his signature seems that HUD has stated that Westchester completion. After all, this is the sort of grand- out $7.5 million to the Anti-Discrimination on the dotted line and the is not a diverse county and that though we’ve standing that nearly bankrupted the City of Center, the Feds have effectively killed a statement, “I signed what- already gotten approval for 164 units and 154 Yonkers years ago. project that by all accounts was moving ever I had to in order to get have already received financing and are on the HUD is additionally also demanding forward ahead of schedule. The only person to the money from HUD,” road to be built ahead of schedule, it just isn’t that these units not only be built in white have benefitted from these rulings is ADC’s former County Executive Andy Spano sent enough for HUD. HUD spokesman Brian wealthy areas but that these units be built in Executive Director Craig Gurian. He can use residents of Westchester County and the Sullivan, in a full page letter asserted that high performing school districts. The latter is a that money to write more questionnaires just current administration of Rob Astorino into we, the beleaguered taxpayers of Westchester demand only espoused of late. These units also in case any of us want to know if we live in what appears to have been part legal conun- County have fallen short of our obligations. have to be on or close to public transportation segregated neighborhoods. drum and part political chess maneuver while It seems that since the vast majority of these and shopping areas. Apparently this is veiled While we are clearly facing economic the clock ticks on. A couple of weeks ago, units were to be two bedrooms and not three, inference to areas of Northern Westchester doom by this decision, the lost victims in Housing and Urban Development (HUD) we may be discriminating against families with that have fabulous schools but lack the public Continued on page 15 pulled $4 million of federal funding initial more than one child. By the way, re-tooling transportation needed to get these new THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 15

HOUSING Fair Housing isn’t too happy to have a Republican in the Office of County Executive in Westchester County. The Continued from page 14 average taxpayer believes the plan set forth by HUD this showdown are those needing affordable was doomed from the start. housing. Nobody from HUD has asked them In the meanwhile, County Executive Robert where they would prefer to live. Why would you Astorino is set to travel to Washington, D.C., on want to be moved to a neighborhood where you July 27, 2011, to meet with HUD Secretary Shaun may not assimilate and are not wanted? And what Donovan to discuss whether or not they can find gives the Federal Government the right to come their way beyond this impasse. One can only hope into any municipality and override local zoning that County Executive Astorino brings Westchester laws to create housing. This override does nothing County taxpayers’s message with him. We’ve had more than violate the Constitution of the State of enough, and its time for Washington to honor the New York. This is the sort of grandstanding from agreement set forth by former CE Andrew Spano. Washington, D.C., that really pisses people off And if the cost is too high, perhaps they should about their government. Westchester has submitted sever their ties with Craig Gurian and the ADC. the Analysis Impediment (AI) to HUD five times I’m certain his departure could save us paying his and it’s been rejected every single time. Prior to consultancy fee a few pennies. 2009, there had never been any rejections. So it seems to even the most politically un-savvy that Nancy King is a resident of Greenburgh, New York. the current administration in Washington, D.C., INFRASTRUCTURE County Executive Astorino Takes Senators on an Inspection Tour of the Tappan Zee Bridge By NANCY KING Under a sweltering July sun, few steps in planning to replacing them. Instead we County Executive Rob Astorino recoil in horror when we watch bridges collapse; took New York State Senate such as the I-35 Bridge in Minneapolis which killed Majority Leader Dean Skelos and 13 and injured 145, or the Schoharie Bridge which Senator Chuck Fuschillo on a fact- collapsed in 1987 after a heavy rainstorm. It was finding boat tour beneath the aging Tappan Zee eventually realized that the beams had corroded, Bridge. The elderly superstructure was built in 1955 but that was after the collapse and had an original shelf life of fifty years. Right If something catastrophic were to happen to now, we’re six years past the “sell by” stamp and the the Tappan Zee Bridge, it would mean the collapse bridge is in bad shape. The Tappan Zee Bridge of more than just the super structure. The old bridge connects Rockland and Westchester Counties. An is a viaduct for not only Westchester, but the entire estimated 178,000 vehicles cross the span daily. If region, and it’s economic health. The bridge doesn’t you’re counting, that’s more than both the Lincoln have to just fall into the water for this to happen. It and Holland Tunnels combined! would take a mere inspection and report by an engi- Ten years and $83 million ago, the state neer who recommended that the bridge be closed commissioned a study that was hoped by all to find immediately to cause an absolute economic shut- a solution as to what to do with the aging bridge. down that could indeed impact the entire country. But like all major capital expenditures, the final Sadly our monetary options are slim at this outcome appears to have gotten lost in the poli- moment. Initial projections to replace the bridge tics of it all. Sadly enough, that hasn’t stopped the come in around $9 billion with an extra $6 billion aging or the rusting to the bridge. As a matter of tacked on should we put a light rail system in as fact, some 80 employees of the New York State well. The only way to pay for a new bridge would Thruway Authority work on the bridge daily. Their be in the form of some hefty tax increases and a task is to literally patch the bridge everyday in order pricey borrowing plan. No matter how it gets done, to keep it up and to keep the traffic moving safely. Westchester County Executive Astorino is calling In the past ten years, the New York State Thruway on Governor Andrew Cuomo to develop a plan Authority has spent $1 billion to the daily repair of to replace the bridge. If the bridge were to be shut the bridge and another $300 million to replace the down tomorrow, the consequences to commerce bridge deck. and traffic would be unimaginable. While it is an So what are we looking at here? A bridge, that expensive proposition to rebuild the bridge now, while we are told is safe to travel upon today, may New Yorkers and all Westchesterites can’t afford to not be safe tomorrow. But it also exposes the infra- wait for a disaster to finally commence the building structure crisis that abounds in the United States. process. Our structures are aging and we’ve taken precious Nancy King is a resident of Greenburgh, New York. PAGE 16 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

GOVERNMENT

The Guardian Guardian Connects the Rossignuolo was awarded another taxpayer A Typical Crook Dots funded fraudulent contract of $58,250. The The Westchester Guardian through competing bid came from A.B Contractors By SAM ZHERKA New York State Board of Elections filings of 231 West Third Avenue, in Yorktown confirmed that Michelle Capuano is the Heights, New York. A glaring issue arose The Westchester Guardian’s campaign treasurer for the up-coming when The Westchester Guardian, upon in depth investigation into mayoral re-election effort to benefit Mayor investing the alleged address, found it does criminality generated from Clinton Young. not exist. The Westchester Guardian made within Mt Vernon’s City Hall inquiry by way of Freedom of Information and Mayor Clinton Young The How To… Law (FOIL) requests of New York State himself gets more and more interesting every In an attempt to funnel Mount Vernon records and thereby confirmed that no such day. The Westchester Guardian has spent weeks taxpayer dollars to the Mayor Clinton company, at that address, had ever existed. in identifying the players in some of the many, Young’s election campaign coffers, and When The Westchester Guardian called many scams, which continue to cripple Mount unjustly enrich his inner circle, Mayor Young the telephone number listed on the bid, Vernon, its residents, and its tax base. and his cohorts, under the guise of protecting 914-960-9314, Marta, a woman of Hispanic In our May 20, 2010, edition, The public property, the peace, health, safety, and descent answered the telephone, confirmed Westchester Guardian identified Brian Bochow welfare of Mount Vernonites, steer and direct the number belonged to her, and that she and his direct connection to Mayor Clinton contracts to politically connected companies knew nothing of a company named AB Young and the bid rigging scandals that such as Rossignuolo. They declare certain Contracting. Water Commissioner Brian Bochow have rocked Mount Vernon City Hall. The jobs and “emergency situations” in order Further inspection of the document Westchester Guardian connected the dots when to side-step and avoid the public bidding This is done through the likes of Michelle from AB Contracting by The Westchester it confirmed the involvement of Mayor Young, process specified within the Mount Vernon Capuano, Mayor Clinton Young’s Treasurer Guardian made it evidently clear the bid had now current Water Commissioner Brian City Charter. Pursuant to Section 73 of the and sister of Franka Capuano, the owner of been faxed to the City of Mount Vernon. Bochow, the then former Deputy Chief of Mt Vernon City Charter, the competitive Rossignuolo Contracting Inc., and benefi- Imprinted at the bottom of the fraudulent Staff, and Rossignuolo Contracting Inc., of 318 bidding process is waived for work deemed ciary of many fraudulently and criminally bid was the fax number 914-667-4809, and East 3rd Street, Mount Vernon, New York. an emergency when so designated by the concocted bidding practices. the words “Deli King.” The Westchester Brian Bochow, a known, desperate Mayor and / or other city officials. Uncovering the Deceptive Deeds Guardian would come to find that Deli In cases where circumventing the gambler who loves to drink, is married It was on December 26, 2008, when King is owned and operated by Michelle bidding process is not easily achieved, Mayor to Michelle Capuano. They reside at 415 Mayor Young personally signed off on a Capuano’s family who also own and operate Young, with the aid of Brian Bochow and his Gramatan Avenue, Apt. 2B, in Mount $111,800 tax payer funded, no bid contract Rossignuolo Contracting Inc., and who wife Michelle Capuano, Mayor Young’s elec- Vernon, New York. Michelle Capuano is for Rossignuolo Contracting, Inc. On June through another family member, Michelle tion campaign treasurer, and her sister Franka the sister of Franka Capuano who, with 23, 2009, Mayor Young, once again awarded Capuano, also run the finances for Mayor Capuano of Rossignuolo Contracting Inc., her husband, are owners of Rossignuolo his reelection campaign Treasurer Franka Clinton Young’s reelection campaign effort. concoct phony bids to insure the appear- Contracting Inc.; the very company, enabled Capuano’s family a $13,800 no bid contract The dots connected by The Westchester ance of a fair bidding process. This fake by Mayor Clinton Young, among other city paid for by Mount Vernon taxpayers. On Guardian’s scrutiny has confirmed that both semblance of propriety thereby permits a officials, through which the City of Mount June 11, 2009, Rossignuolo was awarded a winning bids and losing bids were designed firm such as Rossignuolo to be awarded a no Vernon has been robbed blind. Rossignuolo rigged contract of $49,500 for a job at 406 by the same idiots; Mayor Clinton Young, bid contract and in return funnels a portion has been under The Westchester Guardian’s South 1st Avenue. As previously reported Jr., and his band of the worlds dumbest of the profits generated back to Mayor scrutiny since their bid rigging schemes were in The Westchester Guardian the competing criminals. Clinton Young’s reelection campaign effort. first uncovered in early 2010. bids were fraudulent. On December 2, 2009, INVESTIGATION Yonkers Mayor Amicone’s Ineptitude Exposed in Alleged Firefighter’s Theft of Gasoline Inquiry By HEZI ARIS Yonkers Mayor Phil to prove the allegation of theft despite what Amicone, Yonkers Fire Yonkers Fire Commissioner Anthony Pagano Commissioner Anthony advises will be the thrust of the legal action Pagano, and Human taken against this individual. There is a stum- Resources Commissioner bling block before legal remedy may be sought, Brian Lucyk are on the same that is, the individual must go through his union page. They want a Yonkers Firefighter alleged to challenge the allegations made against him to have been involved in the stealing of gasoline within 30 days of the filing and only then, may approximately 13 months ago to be now fired. the administration proceed to prove their case. The accused individual will in approximately Were the case sufficient to prove the alle- 3 weeks time have completed the required gation of theft of gasoline, one should expect number of years of service on the force to Yonkers Corporation Counsel to have qualify for his pension. The Yonkers Tribune / brought the issue before a court for legal remedy The Westchester Guardian have learned that the months ago. Commissioner Pagano stipulates allegation against the accused individual are the seemingly lengthy time for the investiga- circumstantial and are not sufficiently solid Yonkers Mayor Phil Amicone Yonkers Fire Commissioner Anthony Pagano tion to be completed was stymied by rules, THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 17

INVESTIGATION LAW regulation, and avoiding incurring overtime. the Amicone Administration still find itself In the meanwhile, Amicone, Pagano, and incapable of proving the alleged theft before a Lucyk instead hope to coerce the accused indi- court of law or an independent administrator? Crack Down on Tax Cheats Signed Into Law vidual to quit. They would rather deny him Do they want to force this man from his job to AG Schneiderman’s Legislation Closes “Helmsley Loophole” That Let an independent arbitrator, as specified under validate their ineptitude and premature, and as Tax Evaders Off The Hook; Goes Into Effect in 90 Days Article 75 of the Civil Service. It would be up of yet unproven allegation by fiat? Is it because Schneiderman: This Law Ensures No More Free Passes For White to tan independent arbitrator to decide whether they believe they have the power to do what there is sufficient evidence to deny this man to they will? Will the Amicone Administration Collar Criminals be permitted to continue his employment. abide by law, rules, and protocol or does that ALBANY, NY -- Adding a critical new The issue at hand is not whether this indi- no longer matter? What about protecting tool in the fight against white collar crime, vidual is entitled to his pension earnings. That the taxpayer’s pocket book? The silence Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman’s is a given as far as Commissioner Pagano today surrounding this yet to be divulged issue proves legislation to close a loophole that let tax stated, but if he indeed was involved in the once again that managing the news, rather evaders off the hook was signed into law theft of gasoline, why should he be qualified than its telling in a timely manner, permits today by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. to receive his pension? Commissioner Pagano those who disrespect the law and protocol from The Attorney General’s program bill, rightfully advises that issue is not within his maintaining an upper hand when their rights which was drafted in collaboration with purview. are not above the law. The accused could also New York County District Attorney Cyrus True to form, Mayor Amicone made a have brought the Amicone Administration to R. Vance, Jr., amends a law that prohib- big stink when it was divulged gasoline was court for legal remedy. He has not. ited the state from prosecuting income found stolen back in 2007-2008. The 2009 This is a dance that is often played in the tax cheats who have been previously incident(s) alleged in the report yet to be City of Yonkers. These below standard antics prosecuted in federal court for the “same publicly noticed, could have been mitigated had of government are not exclusive to Yonkers; criminal transactions” even if the crimes are distinct. The law will go into effect in Mayor Amicone’s administration chosen to they are prominent in other locales throughout Attorney General Schneiderman implement the recommendations made April much of Westchester County. 90 days. 2, 2009, by then Yonkers Inspector General In the end, nothing will be remedied. Continued on page 18 Philip A. Zisman in the document he issued The triumvirate, in this case, of Amicone, under the title of “City Fleet Gasoline Usage.” Pagano, and Lucyk, have allowed the clock The reality is that Mayor Amicone feigned to run out; the accused will have earned(?) his concern. He had no interest in resolving this pension, while they scream that he committed issue. Had Mayor Amicone been concerned, theft which they alleged but are incapable of subsequent, similarly alleged thefts could have verifying before a court of law or an indepen- dissuaded some people from attempting gaso- dent arbitrator. Perhaps, when the accused line, or totally stopped it altogether. Instead, earns his pension, he will be smart enough the backroom antics of Amicone, Pagano, to sue Amicone, Pagano, and Lucyk for his and Lucyk, as deemed appropriate by Mayor besmirched reputation by their unproven Amicone, are now collectively attempting to words. demonize an alleged thief by denying him his David Simpson has chosen not to respond right to an independent arbitrator. What are to our inquiry. Neither did Commissioner they trying to prove? Lucyk. Are they interested in stopping any and all I humbly suggest Mayor Amicone resign future gasoline thefts? Why don’t they place a his seat as mayor post haste; and drag some security camera that would be activated when corporation counsel nitwits with him, for their the gasoline pump is turned on? Instead of gross ineptitude. Yonkers has lost big time using the last four digits of an individual’s Social under Amicone’s Administration for circum- Security number, why do they not demand stances that rarely occurs elsewhere. Yonkersites each person create their own pin number, lose taxpayer money by the thefts that have been similarly to the way in which banks have an perpetrated under their watch. Despite the high individual create their own pin numbers for salaries afforded Amicone, Pagano, and Lucyk, ones’ credit and debit cards. The discovery of they have shown themselves unwilling to right Social Security numbers by any Firefighter the wrongs that could be easily righted. can likely be accomplished within minutes were Mayor Amicone hopes to get his pound of that the unlikely intention of any Firefighter. flesh, but will unlikely be able to prove his case What that proves is how easily the prospect specifically because the mitigating modalities of security, as presently maintained, is prone to recommended by Inspector General Zisman continued misuse and likely theft. Many who were not implemented, as they should have use these pumps are unaware of the param- been. Mayor Amicone, even if he knows what eters for which they are permitted use of this he knows in his heart to be what happened gasoline. Some people drive cars for both city will not be able to prove anything. Yonkersites’ business and personal business to this day. wallets will be exposed to allegedly continuing Why has the Amicone Administration theft and still Amoicone will have done nothing maintained such lax standards to dissuade theft to take any corrective course to thwart any simi- of services? Why does this issue come to light larly alleged reoccurrences. three weeks prior to gaining his pension does PAGE 18 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

LAW Crack Down on Tax Cheats Signed Into Law State presented its case. Despite the fact items, contracts, and pension fraud. that the defendant had evaded taxes in Schneiderman also established a new Continued from page 17 legislation (S.5776) eliminates a loophole both jurisdictions, the court dismissed the Taxpayer Protection Bureau to target “Tax evasion is a crime, but for too long, in the so-called “double jeopardy” provi- state charges on the grounds that they were corrupt contractors, pension con-artists, white collar criminals have benefited from sion in the state’s Criminal Procedure Law based on the “same criminal transaction” as and large-scale tax cheats who rip-off New a gaping loophole in state law that has let that prohibited state prosecutors from the federal tax charges. The Schneiderman York State government and its taxpayers. them off the hook. This legislation unties seeking charges against tax criminals who law simply fixes this flaw that has impeded The Attorney General bolstered the the hands of state prosecutors so that all tax have already been charged in federal court New York State’s ability to prosecute and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and has violations can be prosecuted to the fullest for separate, but related federal tax crimes. collect unpaid state taxes. already secured tens of millions of dollars extent of the law,” said Attorney General The legislation was sponsored by Senator Attorney General Schneiderman in recoveries for New Yorkers. And he Schneiderman. “By cracking down on tax Martin J. Golden and Assemblymember has made restoring New Yorkers’ faith in fulfilled his pledge to appoint a public violations, this law ensures there will no Joseph R. Lentol. government a top priority of his admin- integrity officer to all 13 of the Attorney longer be one set of rules for the powerful The so-called “Helmsley loophole” istration. Since taking office, he has General’s regional offices so that citizens and another for everyone else. The days of first gained attention following the inves- announced a sweeping new initiative that can feel safe reporting local corruption to giving tax evaders a free pass are over.” tigation of billionaire hotel operator will give the Attorney General’s office an independent prosecutorial authority. Endorsed by the District Attorneys Leona Helmsley for income tax evasion the authority to investigate and poten- Association of the State of New York, by federal and state prosecutors. After tially prosecute any wrongdoing involving Attorney General Schneiderman’s the federal criminal case went to trial, the government spending, including member

GOVERNMENT Changes Ahead for New Rochelle A Senior Building, Utility Potholes, and the By Peggy Godfrey Possibility of a Forensic Audit The New Rochelle New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson contracted to fix the holes and then bill of the Fevang indictment and to know City Council addressed made note that several payments will be the utility but that this concept be made further if an internal investigation would the issue of utility made to the city, such as the $60,000 part of future contractual agreement take place. Legal Counsel Katherine Gill potholes, possibly for improvements to the Maple Avenue with any and all utilities. New York City, added restitution, if appropriate, would be changing one senior Parking Lot. One tenant, George among other communities have three to “in order” at a future time. Even so, St. building to a taxable Imburgia, said he would like to know if five year windows of responsibility for Paul asked, “Why is the City continuing status, and the recent indictments. These this will result in higher rents, and if so, utilities, but New Rochelle has only a to do business with them? When Strome are the items slated for the July agenda he does not support this change. Another six months mandate. Councilmember answered we don’t know the involve- that will be taken up at future meetings. resident said that the expansion of the Marianne Sussman believes many ment of these vendors, St. Paul said The 35 Maple Avenue Senior Citizen community room, a stated intention potholes are not fixed for months at a that the Department of Public Works housing structure now over 30 years by Mountco, was not necessary. Only time. Councilman Lou Trangucci added “did not follow policies and procedure,” old requires needed renovation asserted 25-30 people use this room when there that even when a subcontractor does the emphasizing “human error costs lives and representatives of Mountco Company. is a specific function. He wants to know work, the street might still need blacktop- money.” Mountco plans to install new bath- if the upkeep of the building will be as ping. The biggest problem was to identify The discussion eventually led to the rooms and kitchens in all l09 units. The stellar as it is now. In what ways will the the potholes and informing the utility. time when present City Manager Chuck transformation process of the senior change from profit to nonprofit effect the The continuing controversy and Strome, then in the employe as Assistant citizen building will thereby change the residents? concern over the indictment of Richard Manager when Fevang was first investi- 109 units to a taxable building structure Councilman Jared Rice initiated Fevang were brought up by Councilman gated, despite no impropriety found at the with Housing and Urban Development another discussion regarding potholes Richard St. Paul who had questions about time, should have done anything more at (HUD) Section 8 subsidies. Section created by public utilities. He stated that the City’s follow-up procedures. He ques- the time. It was at that point that Mayor 8 subsidies would become available to the current City policy, which generally tioned how they spot-check invoices. Noam Bramson called for an executive those eligible tenants who would thereby obligates utilities for a period of six months Finance Commissioner Howard Rattner session. qualify to pay pay 30% of their income to repair potholes they generated, was said vendors were called to confirm After a lengthy executive session for rent. Mountco Vice-President John an insufficient timeframe. The concern bids. While there are four cost “tiers” of hiatus, Mayor Bramson pressed St. Paul Madeo advised there is a contract for revolves about New Rochelle’s inability to invoices, there is no breakdown by cate- by asking whether he knew of other his company to acquire the property. He find the “trenches” that should be readily gory when spot-checking. City Manager misconduct by employees, accusing him gave assurances that none of the present recognized. Public Works Commissioner Chuck Strome, emphasized that crim- of using McCarthy-like tactics. St. Paul tenants will be relocated. Alexander Tergis suggested a vendor be inal charges are “not investigated,” and responded by telling Bramson he had that New Rochelle was had mischaracterized his posture. St. Paul LETTERS TO THE EDITOR advised to hold up delving adamantly asked for a forensic audit and Please submit your Letter to the Editor electronically, that is by directing email to further over Fevang by the a review of the hiring process, suggesting [email protected] Please confine your writing to between 350 and 500 words. Office of the Westchester a whistle blower protection law be added. Your name, address, and telephone contact is requested for verification purpose County District Attorney. Peggy Godfrey is a freelance writer, and only. A Letter to the Editor will be accepted at the editor’s discretion when space St. Paul requested to know former educator. permits. if the City could be using A maximum of one submission per month may be accepted. the same vendors who were named in the telling THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 19 OpEdSection

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

homes are more likely to have emotional balanced budgets, significantly reduced had still not been fixed after two days, I and behavioral problems, to engage in spending, and reduced deficits without made my first call (June 24, 2011). A very crime, to fail in school, to abuse drugs and to important revenue enhancement and a polite gentleman named Ben answered the be on welfare as adults. Until this problem complete overhaul of our tax policies? phone, took the info about the broken light is openly and forthrightly addressed, our Ask any Tea Party advocate to sign and told me that the light would be fixed nation and the Black family, will continue a pledge rejecting their or their family in a day or two. to suffer serious consequences. members’ Social Security or Medicare. Ask My second call was on June 27, 2011. Sal Dye any compassionate citizen what happens Ben told me my location was on the list, Pie In the Sky Suggestions New Rochelle, NY when the states’ request for money to and the repairman would get to it soon. Reinvest the Family Structure to support health, care, food, and other basic My third call was on June 29, 2011. move Mount Vernon Forward” in your The Forgotten Tenets of needs cannot be met based on new federal Ben told me the repairman is still working July 21st issue was replete with pie in the Governance requirements. Perhaps we need to adopt on the list and would get to me soon. Later sky suggestions but fails to zero in on the What has become of the bedrock value an isolation strategy to ensure no aid to that day, I spoke with Mount Vernon central issue regarding family structure of the American politician, that is, the anyone... fat chance! City Councilman Edwards, who took the in the Black community. While no one tenets of governance for the good of the Ask any psychologist or social scien- information and promised to do what he dares broach the subject due to America’s people. Politicians are signing pledges from tist about the necessity of work and if you could to remedy the situation. My fourth climate of political correctness (neo Grover Norquist at the expense of their understand even a part of the above, you call was on July 1, 2011. I was told “You’re Fascism?), the discussion should center on duty to their constituents and fealty to the will understand why we have so many on the list and we will get to you soon.” the fact that the Black community has now elective process of this great nation. Almost public service jobs. If people are not We went through the weekend and the an illegitimacy rate of almost 80%! This is as bad, this epidemic of a loss of values and engaged in a job, they will rebel in some Fourth of July celebration without lights a shocking statistic when we discover that responsibilities has infected all parties, and fashion and that includes the unemployed on the block, so I made a fifth call on in those reactionary days of 1958 the rate the inability to govern in a complex world Tea Party members. Is anyone else offended Tuesday, July 5, 2011. On this occasion, was 12%. leaves little hope for compassionate correc- and disheartened by an unwillingness or Ben abruptly stated, “There is nothing I What has caused this ominous trend tive action. inability to address complex issues in an can do! You will just have to wait until the in our society? Many experts attribute the In short, we are myopic, lack critical even more complex world and tired of the repairman gets to you!” increase to our liberal, Democrat social thinking, and the ability to see clear rela- continuation of ideological simplicity? At this point I asked Ben for his policies, which has substituted government tionships among the complexities forming Warren Gross supervisor’s phone number (which I have handouts for a responsible, supportive these major issues. It took us many years New Rochelle, NY tried several times and got no answer). father figure. Damon Jones, your columnist to get into this mess and it should take a Letter to the Editor On Thursday night, July 7, 2011, the light states, “those families with children should graduated plan, something like Bowles came on, but only for 4 hours. Since then, be provided with “meaningful assistance,” Simpson approach to start working our Quality of Light Issues the light has been out, up to today, July 13, whatever that connotes. Not once in his I noticed a street lighted in front of 2011 (which incidentally is the date of the way out. Start with the variables: states are th article does Jones allude to the problem required to have balanced budgets, many 443 East 4 Street, between Garden and e-mail to the Westchester Guardian). of illegitimacy, which has decimated the corporations are sitting on record profits Egmont Avenue had stopped working. Respectfully, Black family. Unquestionably those chil- because they can escape the cost implica- The numbers on the pole to which the Hugh Bennett dren brought up in one-parent households tions through outsourcing jobs and avoid light is affixed are 13KV and W56. I Mount Vernon, NY are clearly going to “feel neglected.” domestic regulations. Put in very simple noticed the light not working on June 22, 2011. I thought it would be fixed the next Editor’s Note: The light in question was still The harmful effects of growing up terms… the issue is and was JOBS. Does not fixed as of July 19, 2011. without a father in the house are well docu- anyone expect job creation given the day, so I waited before contacting the Dept. mented. Children raised in single parent current situation. Does anyone expect of Public Works. When I realized the light HEZITORIAL focused newspaper began publishing in Press to have begun. Demanding an FBI The Westchester Guardian must Integrity in Journalism 1843. Shutting the publication down inquiry is US Congressional Representative traverse adversarial environments on every could not relieve News Corporation from Peter King. Allegations that the now defunct front. The City of Yonkers has engaged in By HEZI ARIS the unsatiated feeding frenzy that had News of the World operation attempted to stealing our newspapers. A personal judg- come about. Arrest of its former execu- hack into the voicemails of 9/11 victims and ment against Yonkers Mayor Phil Amicone The empire built tive editor and editor came to pass. Staff, their families, has shocked the sensibilities of to the tune of $8 million has yet to be satis- under the aegis of News working for the present British govern- many people. At issue for every community, fied. Following his lead, The City of Mount Corporation’s media mogul ment and Scotland Yard, once connected international, national, statewide, or local, is Vernon has recently, allegedly engaged in Rupert Murdoch has come with News Corporation, has also stepped the same. Can the public trust the media to similar conduct. The Yonkers Tribune, an under governmental scru- down amid demand for in depth investiga- deliver the news, unfettered by competing online sister operation of The Westchester tiny cajoled to fever pitch by public disgust tions. The public outcry heard in the British interests, and still maintain an ability to Guardian, when its publisher Hezi Aris, over recent allegations of phone hacking Isles resonated among law enforcement discern and navigate the boundaries of asked questions too pithy for their intel- and corruption allegations by News of the in the United States. A Federal Bureau of decorum? What are those parameters, and lectual prowess to respond to, much less World, a national English tabloid shuttered Investigation (FBI) inquiry has been said do they change and fluctuate in demeanor comprehend, chose to deny access to the in the past few weeks. The populist, celebrity by an anonymous source at the Associated from one community to another? website approximately 8 years ago that PAGE 20 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

HEZITORIAL

be fired if they even said, “Hello,” to anyone office. Perhaps she is incapable of responding whether it be revealed as demeanor or actual Integrity in Journalism working for The Westchester Guardian. By to our inquiries? Be assured she will come deed. continues to this day. They simply did not whim or design, there are some elected offi- before media to spin some innocuous event; What is your take on this issue? Do want to be exposed. They wanted to control cials who bristle when their wrong doings she just can’t handle the tough questions. you trust media? What do you expect from the news. Their conduct / policy has failed. are exposed. Once revealed, they exhibit Must media put up with this childish media? Are you getting what you want from It is this conduct that goes to the heart of the righteous indignation for being found out. behavior? I say we must not. media? Are you involved in the politics of issue of censorship by government. That is Yet they believe they are above the law and The People will not tolerate abuse by daily living: politics, education, economic not their purview and the U.S. Constitutions deserving of more than The People, and so media and The People must not tolerate development, zoning, among other issues? attests to that very fact. When elected, they often too thin-skinned to seek help for their abuse or aberrant behavior of those they When you see something do you say some- are expected to be transparent, instead, most addiction prior to their being exposed, e.g. elect to office. thing? I don’t mean a package left on a train become opaque in their approach to the Anthony Weiner’s so-called sexual addic- Media must deliver the news as it is, or a bus or plane, though I should hope you public and media alike. tion. Should media have allowed him his rather than being mesmerized, swayed, and would speak up in those circumstances, Whether the allegations regarding News transgressions? Why did media permit it seduced by advertising money. Media must but do you reach out to media to right the Corporation prove true or not, elected offi- during the days of the Kennedy administra- deliver the news whether the powerful are wrongs that are evident to you? Does media cials must learn to respond to media. That tion with regard to Marilyn Monroe. Had peeved or not. But we must deliver the news respond to your inquiry or your assertions? is because the Fourth Estate, designated by the president’s not been tolerated, women by abiding by the rules, regulations, protocol, Or do you accept being yessed to death by the founding fathers appropriate and proper would have earned respected years ago. and demeanor appropriate to the communi- government who do not respond but play to be a conduit for reporting on news and Westchester County Legislators who ties from which we report and about whom you? information gleaned between those elected stray beyond the law are able to keep it out of we report. We must deliver every credible The Westchester Guardian is a small to serve the public good and the public who the public realm. You and I would be thrown voice wanting to be heard who desires to operation. We do what we can with the elected them. For politicians to deny the into the slammer and forgotten. That too serve the public good devoid of our personal staff we have. We may come up short in public access, by denying access to media, must cease. agenda. Every voice is relevant and perti- the public eye. Even so we strive to meet or favoring some media and not others, Senator Jeff Klein (Democrat) got nent. Even those some may feel do not your expectations. If you see something, say is anathema to the democratic discourse bent out of shape recently when The reach a level of credibility to their personal something. Your name need not always be espoused to endure within our shores yet Westchester Guardian revealed the staff liking are best heard. It is the discourse that exposed, because the issue is neither you inexorably is purely spin. Discourse is denied of his Independent Democratic Coalition will allow us to reach understand, possible nor I. Whatever your sensibility, it will not by the omission of information that would (IDC) was partially sustained under a consensus, and still maintain our direction be encroached upon. The issue is whether permit the public the knowledge upon which revenue stream offered through the magna- together. Media must not, though so many the concern is greater than the personalities to reach conclusion and possible consensus. nimity of Majority Leader and Senator do, curtail, dismiss or even mitigate those involved. When that is so, retribution cannot Too many government have chosen to be Dean Skelos of the Republican Party. If this who do not agree with the personal tenets be a threat anyone should fear. patriarchs who believe only they know best, was an embarrassment, why did Senator of those who direct any specific media outlet. The time for games is over. Mr but The People are no longer children. The Klein choose to go down a road he could The Westchester Guardian can be Murdoch will soon learn that. It was under People deserve to be respected, not kicked to have avoided but chose instead to believe trusted to maintain its credibility among Mr Murdoch’s watch that this crisis came the curb or shunned. the facts could be hidden and not revealed? public judgment and the court of law. about; the public is now challenging his The City of Yonkers does not respond to His conduct puts into question the veracity Those that play the game of favoritism, prowess and influence. I know it humbles any inquiry asked of it by the Yonkers Tribune of his conduct. Remember folks, we are the who expect to glean favor by giving notice us at the Yonkers Tribune and The Westchester or TheWestchester Guardian Westchester messenger, not the instigator of this conduct. to some, yet not to others, who reveal truths Guardian. Serving the public good is our County government has only a few weeks Similarly Senator Susie Oppenheimer that suit themselves, but not the greater only goal. Count on it. ago warned all personnel that they would has not returned many inquiries of her to our good, will expire under their own inequity, ED KOCH COMMENTARY

the House of Representatives, are keeping praised by the American public for doing Congress: Enablers of the Rich and Powerful their promises to vote no on any proposed what is clearly in the national interest - tax increases. It won’t work. Americans are requiring the debt ceiling to be raised to By ED KOCH smart enough to see through the subter- pay the country’s ongoing expenditures. The Republicans are the power to raise the limit on borrowing fuge. The McConnell plan keeps evolving Mitch McConnell, the Republican playing with ﬁre. unilaterally” by a maximum of 2 trillion, from day to day, so at this point, we don’t Party, and all of its representatives in They have embarrassed 300 billion dollars which would bring the know its ﬁnal form. Congress who stand by and support the their leader in the House ceiling close to 17 trillion dollars. The President’s offer for some time McConnell farce deserve a stern rebuke by of Representatives, Speaker The President could then raise the has been to reduce the national debt by the voters in the 2012 presidential election. John Boehner, by rejecting his efforts to debt ceiling in three approximately equal four trillion dollars over a ten-year period, The result will be that the Democrats will arrive at a reasonable compromise with increments before the 2012 presidential funded by expense reductions and revenue once again have a majority in both Houses, President Barack Obama on the extension election offset by expense reductions and increases. Republican Tea Party adherents and President Obama will be reelected. of the debt ceiling. revenue increases he proposes without believe a debt ceiling increase to be funded In the judgment of many, the The Republican leader in the U.S. requiring their implementation. If the only by expense reductions is politically Republican Party is leading our great Senate, Mitch McConnell, worried that a Republican Congress votes no to any of the and morally the only arrangement they can country into another recession. Most failure to extend the debt ceiling could cause incremental increases, the President would support. Americans, myself included, believe in a an economic catastrophe, has come up then veto the congressional resolution The Republican majority in the House, capitalist economy with reasonable rules to with a proposal. According to a Los Angeles defeating his proposed action and his veto led by Speaker Boehner, is incapable of restrain Wall Street and bank excesses that Times editorial of July 14, his proposal would then prevail. This political chica- imposing party discipline and allowing brought on the Great Recession of 2008. would provide “that Congress eject itself nery is clearly intended to convince the more moderate voices to prevail over the The failure to enforce existing rules from the debate and give President Obama public that the Republicans, who control Tea Party faction. The President should be Continued on page 21 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 21

ED KOCH COMMENTARY Congress: Enablers of the Rich and Powerful cut the Securities and Exchange We the taxpayers have not for the most Commission’s fiscal 2012 budget request part been made whole. Most Americans Continued from page 20 Representatives is deliberately depriving by $222.5 million, to $1.19 billion (the believe that those who brought this and to adopt stronger rules was due in the S.E.C. of the funds needed to carry same as this year’s), even though the country to its knees economically have part to the objections of then Federal out its new responsibilities. This course of S.E.C.’s responsibilities were vastly not been held accountable. In the debacle Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, action is particularly outrageous because, expanded under the Dodd-Frank Wall involving trillions of dollars of lost wealth, former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin, as Stewart writes, “the S.E.C. isn’t Street Reform and Consumer Protection few if any CEOs of major corporations and former Chairman of the Securities financed by tax revenue, but rather by fees Act. Charged with protecting investors have been criminally pursued. Yes, some and Exchange Commission, Arthur levied on those it regulates, which include and policing markets, the S.E.C. is the corporations and individuals have paid Levitt, Jr. Levitt later apologized for his all the big securities firms.” nation’s front-line defense against finan- large civil fines while not even having to actions. Greenspan admitted publicly Let me quote a portion of his analysis cial fraud. admit wrongdoing, but those fines in the after the Great Recession that he was and his powerful conclusion: “A little-noticed provision in Dodd- millions of dollars are considered the cost wrong to support self-regulation instead The economy is still suffering Frank mandates that those fees can’t of doing business. of regulation by Congress. I have not from the worst financial crisis since exceed the S.E.C.’s budget. So cutting its Large corporations are using their seen Rubin offer either an admission of the Depression, and wide-spread anger requested budget by $222.5 million saves connections and power in Congress to error or apology respecting his role in the persists that financial institutions that Wall Street the same amount, and means seek to rig the rules once again to allow debacle. caused it received bailouts of billions of regulated firms will pay $136 million less them to enrich themselves at the expense A brilliant article in the July 16 New taxpayer dollars and haven’t been held in fiscal 2012 than they did the previous of the American taxpayers. York Times by James B. Stewart sounds accountable for any wrongdoing. Yet the year, the S.E.C. projects.” When will Congress realize that they an alarm. He reports that we are on the House Appropriations Committee has The excesses of Wall Street and the should be the servants of the people, not cusp of repeating the 2008 Wall Street responded by starving the agency respon- big banks have been intolerable for years. the enablers of the rich and powerful who meltdown because of a lack of S.E.C. sible for bringing financial wrongdoers to The major securities firms and large banks fill their campaign coffers? regulation. That agency was given new justice – while putting over $200 million have in many cases more than recov- The Honorable Edward Irving Koch served authority under the Dodd-Frank Wall that could otherwise have been spent on ered the losses they sustained during the Street Reform and Consumer Protection investigations and enforcement actions New York City as its105th Mayor from Great Recession. They were assisted by 1978 to 1089. Act of 2010 to protect investors and regu- back into the pockets of Wall Street. federal loans and other federal programs, late markets. “A few weeks ago, the Republican- all provided courtesy of the American The Republican-controlled House of controlled appropriations committee people.

OPED

than $200 billion now given annually by because politicians and the public repeat- Charities Can Be the Nation’s Conscience individuals). edly assert, “Don’t cut my group” and That loss should be accepted by chari- “Don’t tax my group.” But we face “a By ALLAN LUKS ties as the cost of leadership needed by the looming crisis,” according to the bipar- If charitable groups Budget Office recently reviewed 11 country now. tisan National Commission on Fiscal accept a decrease in options for revising the income tax treat- Contributing is a basic way we feel Responsibility and Reform. The commis- the tax deductibility of ment of charitable giving, and it grouped linked to one another. Reducing how sion further warns that, unless special contributions, they would them into four categories. All establish a much and how many people give to interests stop lobbying to “exempt them- prompt corporations, floor below which contributions would worthy causes will cut important help selves from shared sacrifice,” our economy special interest groups not be deductible. One proposal retained provided by human service, health, educa- could shrink by 2% in 10 years. We need and others to do their part for the greater tax deductibility only for donations tional and cultural organizations. Yet, if 3% growth just to begin to increase jobs. good. exceeding $1,000 per couple or, alter- the charitable sector publicly accepted If the nation’s 800,000 public charities Among the many proposals to raise natively, 2% of a person’s adjusted gross a tax change and the potentially lower that file returns with the Internal Revenue taxes and cut and reallocate govern- income. Under this example, the report donations that would result, this action Service speak out and say that they will ment spending to regain our country’s estimated that individuals who itemize would provide desperately needed lead- accept the proposed tax treatment change economic health, one of the most sensi- deductions would pay $15.7 billion in ership to help move the country toward for contributions, they would exercise their tive is decreasing the tax deductibility of additional taxes yearly to the government. fiscal recovery. role as the public’s conscience. They would charitable contributions. But charitable agencies could experience a We do not have an economic recovery force a good part of the private sector to The independent Congressional loss of up to $3 billion (1.5% of the more plan that the country can rally behind Continued on page 22 PAGE 22 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

OPED Charities Can Be the Nation’s Conscience I was a nonprofit leader for three and Medicare and accept the need to decades and am now a university professor reduce benefits or pay a greater cost. The Continued from page 21 endless list of special-interest groups to teaching about social change. Institutions choice — for my children and grandson — look into the mirror and ask whether accept government spending cuts and tax and individuals always resist giving up is clear. certain changes and compromise may be increases proposed for their own areas, as benefits, and too many elected officials just proof of their genuine interest in jump- Allan Luks, the former director of Big Brothers best for their own, their children’s and the go along with that. But people will change Big Sisters of New York City, is director of the nation’s future. starting the economic recovery. and support good-citizen actions if an The general public looks to the Fordham Center for Nonprofit Leaders and The charities’ public calls also would aroused public spotlight is shined on them a visiting professor at Fordham University’s embarrass and provoke the leaders of nonprofit sector to be the conscience of and they’re forced to look in the mirror. our nation. That is why individuals and Graduate School of Social Service. He is manufacturers, corporations, banks, hedge Charities can hold up this mirror. But the author of four books, among them “The funds, associations concerned about Social institutions yearly donate $260 billion, and the clock is ticking. 65 million Americans volunteer their time. Healing Power of Doing Good.” The views Security and Medicare, and the rest of the I am a beneficiary of Social Security expressed here are his own.

NEW YORK CIVIC

system is in a financial bind comparable to that which faces the United States, except Jaybird Flies Jay Walder is Not Casey Jones, that it cannot run up fourteen trillion dollars By HENRY J. STERN Jumps from NYC to Hong Kong because MTA Nears Fiscal Crash in deficits and then ask for more. Sooner or later, probably sooner, fares will rise and interest on the MTA’s indebtedness will Jay Walder is no Casey Jones. on practically one day’s notice, even though a good choice for the position, with a fine increase. The State and City, traditional Unlike the iconic railroad engineer, who it took more than two months after that to environmental record. Nonetheless, we sources of additional funding, are, as we kept his hand on the throttle while his train find a successor (Walder). recount the story now to tell you how it was know, undergoing severe fiscal problems plunged down curving tracks to disaster, Sander was not the only Paterson done, which is in accord with the important and highly unlikely to substantially increase and by doing so saved the lives of many commissioner to be fired practically Rule 26, “No prints.” transit subsidies, if indeed they are willing people, the MTA chief Jay Walder did not instantly. On October 21, 2010, just twelve Walder chose to accept what could be to retain them. One cannot mention state even complete two years at the helm of the days before the election of Governor the best transit job in the world, at a multiple aid without recalling with sorrow the transit authority before he jumped ship for a Cuomo, the Environmental Protection of the salary, which was begrudged to him disgraceful decision of the New York State more secure and lucrative berth in a private, Commissioner, Pete Grannis, who had in New York. He thus avoided the fate of Assembly to eliminate the commuter tax profitable transit system. served since the start of the Spitzer admin- his predecessor Sander and his colleague on May 17, 1999, a date which will live in Walder was not shanghaied in the dead istration and before that, spent 32 years in Grannis. infamy in mass transit history. How long of night; he is going voluntarily to MTR the Assembly, was told to clear out imme- Last night, I watched The Call on should Walder remain at the helm of a ship, (Mass Transit Railway), a railroad colossus diately by Larry Schwartz, at the time a key New York 1. People called and emailed the which takes on more water each year? headquartered in Hong Kong. Any idea aide to Governor Paterson. The trumped- station to express their views on Walder. We believe that Jay Walder is, by and where they might bank? up charge against Grannis was that he had Almost all were very negative, with the large, a decent, honorable, hard-working and Actually, Walder had a number of sought to avoid budget cuts for his agency, exception of Richard Ravitch, the former competent bureaucrat, who will be missed good reasons for his secretive flight from which every commissioner worth anything lieutenant governor, as well as MTA chair. after he is gone. He is not an inspirational New York and the MTA. The first is the does every year. Grannis was told that Ravitch was highly complimentary, as was figure, nor did he attempt to be one. Nicole impoverishment of the system he is leaving. Paterson would not speak to him about the Mayor Bloomberg. The hostile attitude Gelinas, giving Walder a mixed review, asks The MTA has consistently been undersup- matter and that his dismissal was final. He of the public came because of the service today in The Post (July 22, 2011): “Can the ported, not given enough money to operate, got the news as he was preparing to deliver and personnel reductions that Walder was next MTA chief be a fighter?” One answer let alone to build and maintain the system in a speech and receive an award from an envi- obliged to make because of the lack of public to that question is that the MTA chief is an good repair. Before he came, they overspent ronmental group at what became his last funds and steadily rising expenses, most but appointed, rather than an elected official. wildly, in part because of bureaucracy, over- supper in office. not all of which were uncontrollable. How Major funding decisions are made by the engineering, and weakness before unions, as The question arose as to why Grannis many years should one devote to serving elected, and it is the job of the appointed to well as traditional corruption, particularly in was fired just then. Why not leave it to the people who think you are doing a lousy job, do the best they can with the resources that construction and real property. Walder did incoming governor (Cuomo) to choose his when in fact you are doing a very competent they have been given. not want his reputation endangered by too cabinet? Why should Grannis’ 36 years of job at an obviously thankless task? Of course, they can and should demand many years presiding over a system subject state service end in peremptory dismissal? One could tell that many of the more; that is what Commissioner Pete to those perils. One plausible explanation is based on disgruntled callers were transit employees or Grannis (who was from 1974 to 2005 an Second is the apparent indifference where Larry Schwartz is now. Governor union activists. Even so, there were precious elected official, given to expressing his own of Governor Cuomo to the plight of the Cuomo has appointed him Secretary to few callers who admired the service they opinions) did in October 2010, for which he MTA, and the absence of any effort to the Governor, which is the equivalent to received from the MTA or its departing was summarily politically beheaded in what develop a relationship with Walder. It was chief of staff on the national level and the chairman. If there were an attempt to jam appears to be a pre-election housecleaning. not nearly as bad as Governor Paterson, same post Schwartz held in the Paterson the switchboard, it succeeded. If there Fortunately, Grannis has found a new job in who refused to speak with Lee Sander, administration. were not, the negative sentiment was more what appears to be a more congenial setting, Walder’s predecessor, or even to return his It is likely that, in firing Grannis on the authentic. Of course, no one likes waiting so his public service can continue and his calls, because Sander had been appointed by spot, Schwartz was serving his new master, for a train on a hot platform, being squeezed pension clock keep running. his predecessor, Governor Spitzer. Sander Cuomo, and sparing the governor-elect the or crushed inside a car, or being delayed “Speak truth to power” is a noble slogan, did not have the luxury of another job offer embarrassment of firing an environmental for an indefinite period, whether by “the but truth is better spoken by those with no as Walder did, so he hung around until he icon. Cuomo has the right to choose his dispatcher” or by “train traffic ahead.” Continued on page 23 was dismissed by Paterson on May 7, 1999 own commissioners, and Joe Martens is The underlying fact is that the transit THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 PAGE 23

NEW YORK CIVIC CLASSIFIED ADS LEGAL NOTICES

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SSNY ATTN: JAmbrosino, 1865 Palmer Avenue, FLEUR RESEARCH LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State shall mail copy of process to C/O Mr Jon Malinowski 277 whims of the authorities. We wish Walder Larchmont, NY 10538, Ref. job code: LAD- (SSNY) 3/14/2011. Office in Westchester Co. SSNY design. White Street Buchanan, NY 10511 Purpose: Any lawful the best in his new adventure, which we hope Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY activity. 029. No calls/emails/faxes EOE. shall mail copy of process to The LLC 100 Hickory Lane will be excellent, for the sake of the millions Bedford, NY 10506 Purpose: Any lawful activity. of Chinese and others who will benefit from ARCADIA AVC, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State Prime Retail - Westchester County (SSNY) 5/9/2011. Office in Westchester Co. SSNY design. his services. The search for a successor should Best Location in Yorktown Heights MAK & GER LLC Authority filed with Secy. of State of NY Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY begin at once. It will be a real challenge to the 1100 Sq. Ft. Store $3100; 1266 Sq. Ft. store (SSNY) on 1/31/11. Office location: Westchester Co. LLC formed shall mail copy of process to The LLC 1422 Arlington St in Delaware (DE) on 1/18/11 SSNY designated as agent of LLC Mamaroneck, NY 10543 Purpose: Any lawful activity. Governor and the MTA to find someone as $2800 and 450 Sq. Ft. Store $1200. upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail Registered Agent: Paul Williams 1422 Arlington St Ma- knowledgeable and professionally skilled as Suitable for any type of business. Contact process to The LLC 50 Manhattan Ave – 2H NY, NY 10025. DE Jaime: 914.632.1230 address of LLC: 800 Delaware Ave PO Box 8702 Wilmington, maroneck, NY 10543 Walder. But once such a person is hired, s/he DE 19801. Arts. Of Org. filed with DE Secy. of State, PO Box 898 must be given the appropriation that is needed Dover, DE 19903. Purpose: Any lawful activity. INNOVATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/5/2011. Office in West- for the MTA to do the job right. Pastor- Conduct worship service to Notice of formation of R. Jaundoo Realty LLC. Filed with chester Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom pro- P. S. It is ironic that people now go from congregation; Prepare and deliver the Secy. Of State of NY(SSNY) On 02/09/11. Office loca- cess may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to New York to Hong Kong in order to triple sermons; Be available for personal tion: Westchester County. SSNYdesignated as agent of LLC The LLC 36 Dalewood Dr Hartsdale, NY 10530 Purpose: Any lawful activity their wages. discipleship and counseling. Req. MA upon Whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall in Divinity, Resume to: New York Great mail process to the LLC, 4021 Paulding Ave Bronx NY 10466. Henry J. Stern writes as StarQuest. Direct Faith Church 261E. Lincoln Avenue, Mt. Purpose: Any lawful activity. Vernon, NY 10552 mailto:[email protected]. Peruse Mr. TI VALDEZ LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Articles of Org. filed Stern’s writing at New York Civic. NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 5/5/2011. Office in Westchester Co. PAGE 24 THE WESTCHESTER GUARDIAN THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011

Caught Red Handed Brain-Based Learning 3DJH

Caught Red Handed Brain-Based Learning 3DJH