WESTCHESTER

VolumeH 5 • Number 187 ERALWHYTMedia.Typepad.com May 24,D 2010 • USA $2.50

Shifting David Gears Tobey Page 18 Page 2 Of Significance Weir Only Human “Q” Budget Once Upon a Time in America BY I.M. COB delivering a government Pg. 3 that was not comprised of In addition, states have Campaign Trail White Plains, NY -- On Democrats or Republicans always had the authority Pg. 3 the day when Westchester choosing instead those to enforce immigration taxpayers are voting on who were “Q” or qualified. Community laws, but, as we all know, their respective school Nearly six months into his Pg s . 4, 5 they have failed or refused district budgets, its time office, Astorino seems to be Economic to do so. Moreover, to reflect upon how the having a hard time pushing Development sanctuary policies are “Stop the Tax Madness” his ball down the field. illegal according to federal Pg s . 5 - 6 movement is progressing Not only does he have law, yet they are in effect Education in Westchester County. a largely uncooperative in many states. Arizona, Pg s . 1, 6 - 8 By Bob Weir County Executive Rob Westchester County Board suffering an enormous Government Astorino ran an amazing of Legislators, but a ninth How did we arrive at fiscal and social burden Pg s . 1, 8 - 10 “shoestring” campaign floor staff that was oddly a time in our history when that caused hospitals and that drew off the fear and put together. Legal the concept of the term schools to overflow and frustrations of recession Kevin Plunkett, a tall Pg. 17 “illegal” became a form break the state’s budget, weary Westchester man with a short fuse, leads Movies of ethnic discrimination? had pleaded with the taxpayers. He ran on the the team as the Deputy Pg. 12 The law is clear that it is feds for years to stop the promise of tax relief, and County Executive. Though a crime to enter or remain southern invasion. Scores Op-Ed government consolidation. Astorino claims to have Pg s . 1, 13 - 17 in the United States in of Arizonans have been He ran on the promise of Spoof violation of federal law. see Weir Pg. x see Q Pg. 10 Pg. 17 Learn-to-Swim Referring to... Mayor Amicone, It’s Not Registration Nice to Dupe the Matt NY Daily News

Barber the chamber, our Glenn Page 14 Blain reports from the State By Hezi Aris Capitol” Ms Katz continues Gail Yonkers, NY -- The Daily to write, “Amicone Farrelly Politics column dated May spokesman David Simpson 20, 2010, published in The just called Blain to alert Page 17 New York Daily stipulates him that the two-term that Yonkers Mayor Phil mayor had decided to Amicone is staying put. remain in his current job Ed “Yonkers Mayor Phil and not challenge state Sen. Yonkers, NY -- Registration Saxon Woods Pool in Amicone has decided not Andrea Stewart-Cousins, a for Westchester County’s White Plains and at Sprain Koch to run for state Senate this Democrat.” Learn-to-Swim program Ridge Pool and Tibbetts Pages 13, 16 year, dealing a blow to “He doesn’t feel he can will begin on Saturday, GOP efforts to re-capture see Hezitorial Pg. 2 June 19, at 11 a.m., at see Dear G.A.B. Pg.6 2 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010

Westchester The Hezitorial From Page 1 HERALD leave city in the middle of The Yonkers Tribune Stewart-Cousins. whether he is fit to WHYTMedia a fiscal crisis,” Yonkers editor wrote the following, “More importantly, challenge incumbent Sen Mayoral Spokesman David “While the Yonkers City Mayor Amicone’s Stewart-Cousins delayed Published weekly Simpson told Ms Katz. Council awakens to the negative standings among and hampered the process WHYTMedia Yonkersites recognize opaque crevices hiding Yonkersites are so low the for a Republican contender @gmail.com City Hall spun Ms Katz. unexplained funding prospect for rescinding against Sen Stewart- Tel: 914-562-0834 The reality is that Yonkers allocations in unexpected term limits, so that he may Cousins to come forward WHYTeditor@ Mayor Phil Amicone and undiscovered places, run for a third term, are sooner, though Mr Bellancio gmail.com conducted a poll in which Yonkers Mayor Phil also dashed. attempted to do just that WHYTsubscription his negatives far exceeded Amicone is wracked with Republicans had approximately 45 days ago. @gmail.com 50 percent. He is in no shape mental paralysis that has been pushing Amicone Mr Bellancio’s effort won to run for elected office or invaded his psyche since for weeks to challenge the ire of Mayor Amicone. Publisher to consider rescinding term a poll taken to prove his Stewart-Cousins, one of a Mr McLaughlin’s efforts Hezi Aris limits, should he continue prowess in challenging handful of Democrats that have alas been hobbled to believe he can. Mayor incumbent Senator Andrea are deemed vulnerable this by Mayor Amicone’s Editor Amicone is a lame duck. Stewart-Cousins fell election cycle,” concluded indecisiveness. Hezi Aris He has boxed himself short. He is outflanked Editor Hezi Aris Yonkers Tribune / Columns in. He has eviscerated and stymied by accruing Yonkers City Council Westchester Herald Cam Bock all political options once a 50 plus percent negative Minority Leader Liam maintain Sen. Stewart- Lee Daniels considered viable for him. rating. It seems Mayor McLaughlin received a Cousins will be chosen Marilyn Elie Hasta la Vista! Amicone can no longer lukewarm endorsement Democratic gubernatorial Gail Farrelly The Hezitorial written escape blame every time at the Yonkers City hopeful Andrew Cuomo’s Lisa Fine in the May 12, 2010 he stands before a mirror Republican Committee over running mate prior to Peggy Godfrey edition of the Yonkers pointing to the man that a week ago when his name Monday’s opening of the Anthony Greco Tribune, “Yonkers Budget foiled his options for higher came up for nomination. Democratic Convention. Diane M. Grassi Hearings Mask Mayor’s office. Mayor Amicone’s Mr McLaughlin won For background information Joe Klock, Sr. Mental Paralysis BY HEZI slow recognition of his self- approximately 2/3rds of read the April 22, 2010 Edward I. Koch ARIS”, divulged the reason destructive behavior has the vote, while former edition of the Yonkers Bob Marrone for Yonkers Mayor Phil reduced his effectiveness Yonkers City Councilman Tribune article entitled: Richard Nestro Amicone removing himself as an elected official to its Jeff Bellancio garnered Exclusive: Senator Stewart- Martin McGloin from contention for the lowest point. His arrogance approximately 1/3rd of the Cousins Likely to be Barbara Barton Sloane New York State Senate race and back-stabbing tactics vote. Andrew Cuomo’s Running Zuri A. Stanback against incumbent Senator have destroyed his alleged Mayor Amicone’s Mate By Hezi Aris. Henry J. Stern Andrea Stewart-Cousins. quest to unseat Senator procrastinating over Andy Wainer Bob Weir Roger Witherspoon Advertising Complimentary “Brunch & Browse” Art Event [email protected] New Rochelle, NY -- of ‘09 at BID Gallery with it too, and or call 914-562-0834 On Sunday, June 13th 542, a gallery established the first event from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. last year by the Business attended by over Westchester artist, art Improvement District of 100 people was a collector and enthusiast New Rochelle. She fell in huge success. We Yvonne Wynter will open love with his work, and In addition to her home at 52 Nob Court purchased a number of more than two Welcome in New Rochelle to art his paintings for her own dozen paintings gallery owners, interior collection. “Once I saw and welded Your designers and the public David’s work” she said steel sculptures Comments for “Brunch & Browse”, a “I knew that many of my that visitors reception and exhibition of friends who were also art to her home Tell us if we art by the local well-known enthusiasts would want to saw at the first artist David Tobey. The see them too. There were Tobey reception, are doing event marks the closing only a few days left before “Brunch & something of a two month showcase David’s show at the BID Browse” will feature new see Tobey’s web site at held there of Tobey’s work Gallery was closing, so I paintings and sciulpture, http://www.davidtobey. wrong, and that features paintings, just decided to offer the in addition to more than 50 com, contact the artist at sculptures and new prints walls in my own home for of the artist’s both limited [email protected], what we are by the artist, and all are him to show them later and open edition giclées or dial 914-632-8226. To doing right. invited to attend. There is in the year.” It turned out created over the past five speak with Ms. Wynter no charge for admission. that Mrs. Wynter was years, available at very about the exhibition, or WHYTEditor@ Ms. Wynter first saw right. Many of her friends reasonable prices. For more for directions to her home gmail.com Tobey’s art at his solo who saw David’s art information on the June contact her by phone at exhibition in November immediately fell in love 13th “Brunch & Browse” (914) 235-9813. WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 3 Yonkers City Council Republicans Support School Wage Freeze Minority Leader John New York State’s failure Murtagh (left) said that to properly fund Yonkers’ based on estimates he has schools, added that “due seen, an immediate freeze on to Albany’s failure to raises combined with a pay act responsibly, the City cut would result in savings Council and other local of nearly $50 million. officials have no choice “We have two options” but to make the difficult Murtagh stated, “either decisions necessary to keep every employee sacrifices Yonkers solvent”. and we get through tough Editor’s Background Yonkers, NY -- The times together or we have per cent pay cut for all Note: Read the May promote this concept. He Yonkers City Council massive layoffs and cuts in employees, stated that 12, 2010 article entitled is simply too paralysed to Republicans May 18, 2010, services that Yonkers can “given the extraordinary “Yonkers Budget Hearings think. Yonkersites have applauded Yonkers Public ill afford”. nature of the current Mask Mayor’s Mental concluded Mr Murtagh School Superintendent According to estimates economic downturn, Paralysis BY HEZI ARIS” is disingenuous. Were he Bernard Pierorazio’s call provided to the Republican equally extraordinary to find the following: supportive of the 5 percent for an immediate wage caucus a freeze of school measures are necessary to “Inside “acid-tongued” pay cut, a press release to freeze for teachers and raises and step increases meet the challenge”. Larkin sources familiar with that effect would have been school administrators and would save at least $21.5 noted that the money saved backroom scenarios have issued. None has yet been proposed that a similar million dollars. A similar with freezes and cuts, when advised talk of Mayor issued.” municipal wage freeze freeze on the municipal side combined with other cost Amicone postulating a 5 as well as a five per cent would save an additional cutting measures proposed percent across the board across the board pay cut for $2 million. An across the by Yonkers Mayor Phil pay cut, as told in various both school and municipal Board five per cent pay cut Amicone, new revenues venues by Mr Murtagh, employees is necessary as could result in an additional and proper state aid would eschewing likewise support Yonkers struggles with a $25 million in savings. close the projected gap. by fellow Councilmembers $109 million dollar budget Yonkers City Councilman Councilman Dennis Larkin and Shepherd, shortfall. John Larkin (center), who Shepherd (right), who is a falsehood. Mayor Yonkers City Council initially proposed the five has been a vocal critic of Amicone is reluctant to A Movement with Momentum! a bottomless trough of you where it belongs they’ll be dragging out Scroll down to the end of perks, pork, and personal drove me to announce my the heavy artillery to hold this email to follow us on entitlements. candidacy formally on onto the seats they’ve Facebook and Twitter as However, I had reason Tax Day last month. Since come to consider their well. to be optimistic. Regular then, the outpouring of personal possessions. Thank you for all you’ve folks in Yonkers and support -- the turnout at the Take a moment to visit done so far; let’s bring this elsewhere were sounding announcement event, the our campaign website at fight for Yonkers across the every bit as fed up with kind financial support from www.ramondelli2010. finish line! this poisonous, autocratic civic-minded citizens, even com and see how you can Mike Ramondelli is the Albany culture as I was, people waving to me on the help: you can find out Republican nominee to and were ready to become sidewalk with smiles and how to volunteer, donate, represent the 93rd Assembly active in politics (many shouts of “The Right Mike!” find out more about me District. By Mike Ramondelli of you for the first time -- has been overwhelming! and my positions, and in your lives) to end that Early this month I was look for upcoming events. What a difference a culture and bring reform honored to accept the month makes! to our state government. I official nomination to stand When my campaign for saw an opportunity to be for State Assembly, and our State Assembly first came an agent of reform for the campaign to take our fight to life earlier this year benefit of the city where I for reform to Albany will back in my Yonkers living was born, raised, educated, now advance to its next ADVERTISE room, I was mindful of and where I still reside and level. the obstacles ahead. I was am blessed to have made a It’s at times like this that taking on an entrenched good life for myself. I need your support more 914-562-0834 career politician, a powerful That impulse to serve, than ever! The obstacles I political dynasty, and most to reform, and to take listed above haven’t gone WHYTmedia of all, a long-standing political power out of away, and our grassroots Albany culture that angrily the hands of complacent reform movement has the protects incumbents and influence-brokers in the establishment politicians @gmail.com treats public service as capital and return it to nervous enough that 4 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 Jenkins, Gronowski, and Bronxville Holds Memorial Day Field On the Level on Blood Drive Bronxville, NY –-- The you know someone whose WVOX-1460 AM Village of Bronxville will life was saved by these hold a blood drive on individuals. Please donate Memorial Day, Monday, blood on Monday, May 31 with Hezi Aris May 31, 2010. Healthy at Bronxville Elementary New Rochelle, NY -- Jeff Field, Director of individuals are encouraged School, in honor of those Another power-packed java Communications for the to donate blood between who respond to the call of jolted On the Level radio Catholic League. Up to the hours of 9:30 AM and duty and give of themselves show to awaken the challenge 3:30 PM at Bronxville to help others. A single your sensibilities are your On Elementary School, 177 blood donation can help will be heard this the Level hosts Pondfield Road, Gym, save the lives of three Tuesday, May Richard Narog Bronxville, NY 10708. people. People can give 25th, on WVOX- and Hezi Aris. Memorial Day honors blood every 56 days. 1460 AM and For those who those who gave the everyone knows someone www.WVOX. crave more news ultimate sacrifice to protect who serves in the military, To donate blood, please com, from 10:00 with a Yonkers our country and freedom. or maybe an officer, call: 1-800-933-2566, through 11:00 p e r s p e c t i v e Please give blood in honor firefighter, first responder, or visit am. The show c o n s i d e r of those who serve to keep or someone who works www.nybloodcenter.org. opens with listening to Hezi us healthy and safe. Nearly in healthcare. Or, maybe We s t c h e s t e r Aris Wednesday C o u n t y mornings at 8:35 L e g i s l a t u r e am when he and Chairman Ken Jenkins Bob Marrone discuss hyper Mother Teresa Campaign Continues brings us up to speed on local issues on the Good New York, NY -- Catholic to Anthony Malkin. what has transpired the Morning Westchester radio League President Bill His address is Malkin night before. Then, Yonkers program hosted by Bob Donohue comments on Properties, One Grand City Councilwoman Joan Marrone Day 8 (May 21, 2010) of Central Place, 60 E. 42nd Gronowski (3rd District). the protest campaign on St., NY, NY 10165. We close the show with behalf of Mother Teresa: “Also contact Melanie “Today I am writing Maasch at the Empire to the U.S. bishops in the State Building: mmaasch@ Midwest notifying them esbnyc.com.” that Anthony Malkin, the owner of the Empire State Building, has decided not “America’s great to overrule those who have chosen to deny a tribute to Mother Teresa: our request community radio to have the towers shine blue and white, the colors of her congregation, on stations!” August 26th, the 100th anniversary of her birth -The Wall Street Journal (and the day the U.S. Postal Service is honoring her with a commemorative stamp), was denied without explanation. Yet the same persons who chose to stiff Mother Teresa decided to honor the Chinese

Communist revolution

last year, even though 77 million innocent men, women and children were The Voice of The Golden Apple murdered under Mao Zedong. One Broadcast Forum, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801 (914) 636-1460 “Everyone is being ADVERTISE • 914-562-0834 asked to sign our petition (click here), and to write [email protected] WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 5 Sound Shore Medical Center Receives Gift of Artwork New Rochelle, NY assemble artwork to benefit the Coalition’s project will -- Recently Sound New Rochelle. With the have far-reaching impact. Shore Medical Center’s funds, Ms. Assor chose to It will now brighten the Emergency Department purchase designs from the day for children who visit received a much-anticipated Foundation for Hospital the Emergency Department gift from the New Rochelle Art and solicit student and at Sound Shore Medical Jewish Coalition. adult volunteers from six Center. The colorful, six-panel of the area synagogues to canvas depicting a mother help complete the hands-on and baby giraffe is on art pieces. The volunteers display in the pediatric would bring the art to life. waiting area of the After many hours of For additional information Emergency Department. work on three murals and on Sound Shore Medical The handsome gift is not 35 volunteers later, Ms. Center’s Care. For Life. only a nice addition to the Assor contacted Sound Marcia Assor, New Rochelle Jewish Coalition; Erica services, visit www. décor and a pleasure for the Shore Medical Center Leventhal, Director of Youth Activities at Beth El soundshore.org. children, but also a lovely with the offer of one of Synagogue; Joseph Ponticello, MD, Director of reminder of the caring their completed pieces – Emergency at SSMC; Volunteers Daniel Hoffman of individuals who painted it. an eye-catching mural. Temple Israel and Isaar Assor of Beth El; Rabbi David Marcia Assor of the In addition to providing Kosak of Beth El; Volunteer Heather Herman, Beth El; New Rochelle Jewish pleasure and camaraderie Barry Shainker, Youth Director at Temple Israel; Lila Coalition applied for and for the volunteer artists and Campbell-Gardener, RN at SSMC; and Volunteer Ari received grant monies to spreading joy through art, brown, Beth El.

New Seafood Restaurant to Open on Yonkers Waterfront Yonkers, NY -- called Dolphin, in the 1980’s restaurant will offer. Restaurateur Elio Rugova in New York City. He has The owner of the property, will open the Dolphin spent the last two decades Dwight Collins, said he Restaurant in the Yonkers working at the ever popular “was very impressed when Waterfront Development at Mulino’s in White Plains. he met the Rugova family.” the site of the former Pier Jimmy Rugova honed his “This is truly the America View restaurant located at restaurant skills working Dream. When Elio Rugova 1 Van Der Donck Street, at the Las Vegas location arrived in The United States in Yonkers, NY. His son of Smith & Wollensky he did not speak a word of Jimmy will join him as Steakhouse among many English, now he and his general manager. Award- other venues. sons are opening their own winning chef Anthony Jimmy will be assisted restaurant.” Dwight Collins, DeMarsico, who garnered by his brothers Skel, Agron one of the principals rave reviews from the New and D. Mr. Rugova and his of the kitchen which go will feature a wide variety Collins Enterprises LLC York Times, The Bergen sons are busy renovating toward improving kitchen of fresh seafood with a and Hudson Park also said Record and The Greenwich the former Pier View efficiencies. The renovated diverse international flair “This restaurant location Times, will be oversee the location, which is located décor will include various that will extend the range is critical to the vibrancy kitchen. at the edge of the Hudson stone, wood and glass from oven roasted sea of the Yonkers Waterfront Yonkers native Rugova River. They have done an finishes, as well as up to base, whole fish to Lobster revitalization and we are was a three star chef extensive job redesigning date LED lighting. They DelFano. The kitchen confident that the Rugova’s at Captain’s Table in the bar to accentuate the hope to open sometime will also offer a panoply will be a resounding Manhattan who went on international wines they time in May. of small plates and meat success.” to be the chef/partner of will serve. They have also Chef DeMarsico has dishes to compliment the a seafood restaurant, also redesigned certain aspects created a new menu that large wine element that the 6 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 New Rochelle Neighborhood Association Members Question Development rewritten.” He cited new consultants, but Freimuth how to ask questions.” York City and their big proposals for Church- warned the New York The Echo Bay and Cappelli deficit in 2007. Questions Division lots and the future State Quality Review Act developments are still continued to be raised use of Davids Island. For (SEQRA) law is different in progress and Marino about how much is too example, a plan should “do from the other 49 states. Michelotti wanted to much growth in the City. the job” without having the Leroy Grayson wanted to know if Freimuth had the Mitch Spalin felt Friemuth public “fight everything know what happened to the freedom to dispute what seemed open to new in the plan.” Developers, New Rochelle bus terminal the developers are doing. ideas but told him that By Peggy Godfrey he said, want long-term (for long distance buses) Freimuth answered that the citizens’ groups have commitments. that was supposed to be at the agreements have to be suggested many ideas but The City of New Rochelle’s The train station is New the New Rochelle Transit honored. When questioned they find that whatever new Development Rochelle’s link to places Center. Friemuth said he further about the proposed a developer says, the Commissioner, Michael from Newark to New doesn’t understand why the 700 apartments in Echo City Council approves. Freimuth, while admitting Haven, and the city is in a train station is “in a ditch.” Bay which could bring Freimuth answered that the to being a “novice on New strategic location. He felt The flooding on several in “a gang of kids” to the “only way I can survive Rochelle,” also stated that the overall goal should streets and the inadequate schools, Friemuth felt is to be in rooms like he does not see the present be practical and strategic sewage plant were brought one and two bedroom this to listen and argue,” development projects in and questioned “How do up by Ward Henderson. apartments would not when it has legitimacy. the same way “as residents you remain competitive?” Omar Small, Assistant bring in children. Charles After the meeting of do.” Most recently he was He asked how do we play City Manager, answered McLaren felt development the Confederation of employed in high-level into business growth and the flooding and back-ups near the railroad cannot be Neighborhood Associations planning and development wanted to know if the are being addressed in a supported because there are and New Rochelle Citizens positions in Stamford and training in the schools Hazard Mitigation plan. four apartment buildings in Reform Cub Imburgia Bridgeport, Connecticut. was adequate. Freimuth There is a City survey for the area which have low felt after listening to the He said that he has a “host proposed “tinkering with citizens on the web site, water pressure and their new Commissioner, some of things” on his agenda, certain ideas, such as the www.newrochelleonline. residents cannot take a people thought they had including reorganizing his Transit Center as a growth com which he encouraged shower in the morning. He answers to their questions. office and restructuring center.” everyone to complete. felt the water pipes were “It seemed to some people his staff’s duties. In his Steve Mayo had the first When questioned by not big enough. George Freimuth did not have view, the Comprehensive question, asking if cost Patricia Zaffo about how the Imburgia wanted to know a free hand to do what Plan of l996 needs to be was a factor in why the public is supposed to know how all this development counts. His talk appeared readdressed in 2010. Since Comprehensive (Master) about this survey, Small is going to support the to echo the Mayor’s views every time City Council Plan had not been changed felt the Neighborhood average person. When on development in the City meets a zoning change since l996. The plan Associations could help Freimuth replied he wanted of New Rochelle.” is presented, he felt the would be completed in- with this especially since to look at growth, Imburgia “zoning code needs to be house without outside many people “don’t know suggested looking at New

Learn-to-Swim Registration From Page 1 Brook Pool in Yonkers. * Children ages 6-8: registration takes place on Westchester County Legal The program offers classes meet Tuesdays and a first-come, first-served Chapter. swimming lessons for all Thursdays, from 10:15 a.m. basis. Pool admission For more information, ages and ability levels from to 10:45 a.m., and run July fees are included in the call the pools directly: Notices toddlers to senior citizens. 6 through July 29. registration fee for the Saxon Woods at (914) 995- Classes will be held during * Children ages 9-12: participant. Adults and teens 4480; Tibbetts Brook Pool Legal notices for July and are conducted classes meet Tuesdays and participating in the Learn- at (914) 231-2867; and publication by American Red Cross Thursdays, from 9:30 a.m. to-Swim program must Sprain Ridge at (914) 231- in the certified swimming to 10 a.m., and run July 6 present a valid Westchester 3450. Westchester instructors and lifeguards. through July 29. County resident Park For more information, Herald The schedule for * Adults and teens (13 Pass; children under 12 call (914) 864-PARK or go are accepted for classes is as follows: and up): classes meet registering for the lessons to www.westchestergov. publication * Pre-schoolers ages 3-5: Tuesdays, Thursdays and must be accompanied by a com/parks. no later than classes meet Wednesdays Fridays, from 5:30 p.m. to Park Pass-holding parent or Thursday and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. 6:15 p.m., and run July 6 adult guardian. for the following to 10 a.m. or from 10:15 through July 30. The Learn-to-Swim week’s edition. a.m. to 10:45 a.m., and Registration fee is $75 program is sponsored run July 7 through July and you must register at the by Westchester County WHYTLegal 30. All children must be pool at which you would Parks in cooperation with @gmail.com accompanied by an adult. like to take classes. All the American Red Cross, WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 7 It’s Time for Mayor Amicone to Scarf it Down By Hezi Aris has stepped in, winning and then shun Sen Stewart- people came to 28 Wells Were one to listen support by the Yonkers Cousins, defining her as Avenue, Sen Stewart- to Mayor Amicone his City republican Committee incompetent, lazy, and Cousins’ district office, conceptualization of the Yonkers Mayor Phil to challenge for Sen Steart- simply not up to the task. to voice their hopes Sen school funding formula one Amicone asserts of late Cousins seat. Yonkers When Ms Stewart- Stewart-Cousins was immediately recognizes his that the school funding tribune still maintains Sen Cousins finally defeated doing all possible to being played for a fool or formula has caused Stewart-Cousins will be then Sen Spano, voter remedy the plight Yonkers his perpetuating a lie; there Yonkers’ financial plight. designated Lt. Governor disgust of incumbents was suffering among her is no funding formula, it Casting blame upon status upon Attorney changed the demeanor of the colleagues in Albany. An is simply a will of power anyone and everyone, yet General Andrew Cuomo’s once Republican majority impromptu march toward over the will of someone absolving himself, Mayor announcement of his in the New York State Yonkers City Hall, attended else’s power. If one were Amicone now points his candidacy for Governor of Senate to one dominated by Yonkersites, union to allow Mayor Amicone accusatory finger upon New York. by Democrats. Ms Stesart- leaders and members, and passionate definition of the Albany, specifically in his Mayor Amicone’s Cousins became one of Assemblymen J. Gary school funding formula, admonition of the Albany backroom plot to unseat the bright stars among the Pretlow, Richard Brodsky, why has he not translated Delegation representing Senator Stewart-Cousins majority leadership. and Mike Spano, was his passion and concepts the City of Yonkers (COY). was premised on reviving Not quick to adapt or surprisingly met by a to an amenable document Those on Amicone’s hit list the outcry first heard adjust to the new political face to face talk among worthy of being presented are Deputy Minority Leader from former Mayor John reality, Yonkers City Hall all the protagonists. at to Sen Stewart-Cousins? Is Senator Jeff Klein, Senator Spencer, when Mr Amicone hurled political epithets at the invitation of Mayor he not proficient enough to Andrea Stewart-Cousins, was then deputy mayor. Sen Stewart-Cousins. All Amicone. Present were rewrite a formula right? Is and Assemblymen Mike When acceding to office, they while, Sen Stewart- labor, the State Delegation, Mayor Amicone too proud Spano, J. Gary Pretlow, and Mayor Amicone lacked Cousins star was rising as Mayor Amicone and to scarf it down? Richard Brodsky. the ability to articulate a legislator. She proved media. It was a 90 minute Why does Mayor Amicone The school funding the demerits of the school herself capable, assertive, discourse that will require stand on ceremony? If he is formula has been skewed to funding formula. He did not focused, and competent to greater insight, focus, so sure his cry for a fair and serve northern communities understand then, and likely deliver. Her will won over accommodation, and equitable school funding with subsidies greater still, there is no formula. the plotting tactics and leadership. formula will glean the funds than for cities such as It is a ruse; rather than a the politcal dogs Mayor The shout for a fair and necessary to satisfy his Yonkers and Mount Vernon formula, Albany delivers to Amicone unleashed upon equitable school funding $109.5 million plus deficit predicated on the disparity the most powerful. her. He lost. formula continues. The for FY2010-2011 alone, of employment and income. Mayor Amicone was Mayor Amicone, desperate reality is that is is nothing why does he retreat from In contrast to the plight spared contending with for more funding now, more than a blame game going the distance. Let him elsewhere, Mayor Phil the school funding formula continues his harangue now. Were the concept to put his resolution before Amicone’s FY 2010-2011 because Senator Stewart- against Sen Stewart- earn credibility in Albany, the Albany Delegation in Budget shoulders a 109.5 Cousins’ predecessor, Cousins, though less so, her it must first earn its formal document form million deficit. Since it was former Senator Nick New York State Legislature credentials in Yonkers and at a forum open to the divulged, the deficit has Spano, during his last three colleagues. Mount Vernon. public, open to the media, grown, yet Mayor Amicone terms, which overlapped One must wonder if The argument made by and televised to win the chooses to be silent about Mr Amicone acceding to Mayor Amicone believes John Spencer as mayor, hearts of Yonkersites, the that fact. mayor from deputy mayor, he is entitled to “bully” then dropped by his Yonkers City Council Mayor Amicone had by fighting for his political women about. To a lesser successor Mayor Amicone, Membership, The Yonkers hoped to escape the survival delivered one-shot extend, Mayor Amicone has been nothing more than PTA, The Yonkers Board responsibility of contending infusions of funds to COY believes he is permitted an accusation to demean of Education Trustees, with an ever ballooning that satisfied COY’s needs license to do just that those outside Yonkers’ Yonkers Public School budget deficit crisis that has over then senator Spano’s to Assemblyman Mike inner circle, the infamous Superintendent Bernard been nurtured throughout last years in office. Spano. With regard to Sen “Family and Friends Pierorazio, and most his tenure as former deputy Once City Hall realized Stewart-Cousins he does Club”. The argument for importantly, the People of mayor and present mayor they could squeeze “Santa believe he is entitled to a fair and equitable school New York State. by challenging Senator Claus” for more, they bully her about; with regard funding formula has won His failure to go the Stewart-Cousins for her squeezed harder and harder; to Assemblyman Spano, it hearts but not minds. Ask extra distance, shows seat. Mayor Amicone’s got more and more, but is all show. any Yonkersite or Mount Mayor Amicone to be plans were dashed by a did not credit Sen Spano’s Mayor Amicone Vernon resident, among nothing more than a talker, poll he will not disclose accomplishment. In fact, has worked over-time other communities, if the not a doer, at a time when that revealed his negative they chastised him publicly to estrange himself by formula is well defined, good enough is NOT good numbers exceed 50 plus and kissed his derriere ridiculing and denigrating and they will tell you it is enough. percent, a death knell that in the closet. The chatter the Albany Delegation, the not. Dig a little deeper and Despite having lost has was surely difficult for about a rift between Nick only conduit for resolution they cannot tell you why it and wasted an opportunity Mayor Amicone to scarf spano and Phil Amicone is to COY’s financial crisis. is unfair, if there is another to avoid the calamity we down. Former Yonkers nothing but an act. Having Mayor Amicone first solution, and if so, whether now face, Mayor Amicone City Council Minority smitten “Santa Claus”, City relented to the new reality it could find support among Leader Liam McLaughlin, Hall would first castigate, when over two hundred the NYS Legislature. see It’s Time Pg. 8 8 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010

It’s Time for Mayor Amicone to Scarf it Down From Page 7 still has the time to assign cost over $2 million dollars million were squandered to someone else’s power over Cousins and her NYS Yonkers Corporation employing legal eagles the benefit of the “Friends another, it behooves Mayor Legislature colleagues the Counsel to resurrect the who were for all intent and Family Club”, to Amicone to choke down appropriate ammunition lawsuit dropped against and purpose “Friends and the detriment of Mayor on the scarf and muster that will be credible to the Albany first brought to Family”. The legal suit was Amicone’s argument to the the forces to draw a plan entire NYS Legislature. court by the City of Utica withdrawn at the behest contrary today. ready for presentation to That is the task of a true which Yonkers came to of Thomas Weibrecht, If the school funding Sen Stewart-Cousins with leader Mayor Amicone, join. This lawsuit, paid for present Yonkers Program formula is not a “formula” the enthusiastic support of anything less is... enough by funds meant to school Administrator for Capital but rather the will of those mentioned, among said. Yonkers’ student population Improvements. The $2 power over the will of others, to arm Sen Stewart- Yonkers Mayor Amicone: ‘Smooth Operator’ - An Engineering Feat By Dr. Ed U. Cator educational job placement foil for Mayor Amicone. side. Andy Api will make None of these Trustees Yonkers, NY -- The sure “projects” on the spend any real time at the changing of the “guard” capital side, under the aegis YBoE!. at the Yonkers Board of of his friend Mr John Carr, Actually, Education (YBoE) from are implemented through Bernard’s Pierorazio’s Bernadette Dunne to Andy the “Family and Friends superintendency should Api is about the continuation Club”. benefit immensely from and prolongation of the Phil The assumption is that the fact that with Mrs Amicone regime at City Mrs Dunne is retiring from Dunne’s departure no Hall. Api is, and will be, her “position” at Manhattan one will challenge him the personification of Phil College and therefore is educationally, and for that, Amicone at the YBoE; this no longer in need of the the entire school system will opportunities presented be trusted to protect and suffer the consequences. will extend Phil Amicone’s Where Bernadette Dunne to her at the YBoE. Mr implement the Mayor’s In his final year in office, term and influence and served at Phil’s altar, Andy Api, recently retired as the “vision” at the YBoE. Mayor Amicone will be serve to protect Phil’s Api will now continue head of the Engineering After all, Superintendent able to accomplish what he interests at the YBoE. in the role of acolyte. Department at City Hall, Bernard Pierorazio will wanted to do seven years Let’s be clear about one Amicone, Dunne, and Api also a close personal friend soon be leaving and the ago, that is, to take over the thing.... This has nothing all have Manhattan College of Mayor Amicone, and reappointed Rt. Rev. YBoE and transform it into to do with the educational connections. Only the clearly one of the founding Gerald Sudick has readily a city department. With side at 28 Wells Avenue; it venue has changed. Mrs. members of the “Family aqcuiesced in his first term Api’s appointment, that has everything to do with Dunne served herself and and Friends Club”, can as a Trustee to be the perfect will come to bear. the business side. Manhattan College on the

Statement Regarding State Overtime Cuts Operations Valerie Grey pleased to see state Budget and NYS Budget Director Director Robert Megna and Robert Megna Wednesday, Director of State Operations May 19, 2010, for placing Valerie Grey have a moratorium on overtime recognized this is a practice in all Executive Branch we simply cannot afford. agencies. New York State spends “Nearly six months more than $400 million after the release of the first each year in overtime, By Jeff Klein investigation by my office putting an immediate end Deputy Majority Leader, which found egregious to unmandated overtime New York State Senate, and unnecessary overtime during this tough fiscal 34th District being spent at a rapid rate time is a difficult decision by a state agency and nearly but a smart one - it’s time Albany, NY -- The State three months after the State for New York to get smart Senate’s Task Force on Senate launched the Senate about spending abuses, and Government Efficiency, Taskforce on Government stop writing checks we can’t chaired by State Senator and Efficiency which continued cash,” said State Senator Deputy Majority Leader to uncover tens of millions and Deputy Majority Jeff Klein, commended of dollars in wasteful Leader Jeffrey D. Klein NYS Director of State overtime spending, I am (D-Bronx/Westchester). WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 9 Mayor Marvin’s Column Our Farmer’s Market will dirt farm. As a result, the into making the Village believe it was a wise use of officially open on May 29th products sold are fresher resplendent with flowers resources. with a season extending and healthier than what and new landscaping. Finally, in an effort to until November 20th. The is traditionally offered. In stark contrast, the generate new non-property Market is located at Stone Mary Liz Mulligan is also signage and walking tax revenues for the next Place and Paxton Avenue a member of the Village’s advertisements for budget year, we have adjacent to the paddle Green Committee which Swoozie’s detracts from elected to enforce our By Mary C. Marvin courts from 8:30AM to dovetails nicely with both the standards of our parking meters starting Mayor of the Village 1PM every Saturday, rain our missions. Village and has added an at 8AM instead of the of Bronxville or shine. In the theme of healthy unattractive storefront traditional 9AM. We are Our Market is so popular and organic, our very own to our streetscape. Our legally allowed, given This beautiful spring that new vendors ask to Bronxville Beautification Building Department has current code, to charge weather signals a new join weekly. In addition to Council is sponsoring issued violations and I have from 8AM to 9PM but we season in the Village and the fruits, vegetables and a Garden Tour, rain or spoken to the liquidation have only chosen to add with it a host of worthwhile meats from only Hudson shine, from 10AM to company. However, they the one morning hour. We activities. Valley farms, new products 4PM on Saturday, June refused to comply with expect to generate over This past weekend the include ice pops made with 12th. This is a self-guided Village ordinances and our $80,000, or the equivalent Women’s Club hosted fresh local fruit, organic tour, beginning in front of counsel has advised that of one percentage point in a tribute to our Village baby food and homemade Village Hall, of some of the language in the Federal taxes, by adding this one veterans incorporating candles, soaps and lavender the most beautiful gardens Bankruptcy decree from hour to our enforcement their stories and photos products. in our Village followed the Federal Court in Atlanta policy. Since it is a change in a poignant display In its ninth year and ably by a wine and cheese effectively trumps our local from the norm, we will be organized by Villagers run by former Chamber of reception. Tickets are Village Code. The language alerting parkers with flyers Kathy De Russo and Commerce Director, Mary $20 in advance and may in the ruling specifically and e-mails and will give Mary Westmoreland, USA Liz Mulligan, the market is be purchased at Tryforos mentions/encourages this ample time to adjust to the Colonel Retired, with the a joint venture between the and Pernice, Kensington kind of marketing with new regulations. assistance of the Bronxville Village and the Chamber. Paper, East India Designs, the theory that it will aid We are starting to see Historical Conservancy. The Market keeps Mrs. Morgan’s Flower in maximizing the return some positive signs in the They have collected the expanding because its Shop, Pete’s Park Place to investors. Our only revenue sources that affect names of over 1,500 philosophy of “growing Tavern, Isabel’s Hair recourse was to hire a our budget and we hope the residents who have served local and buying local” Salon and Womrath’s Georgia-based attorney to trend continues. in the Armed Forces. Not resonates with the Bookstore. Tickets may argue our position. We did Happy Spring and I look only are we grateful to them customers. One of our also be purchased outside not believe we could win forward to seeing everyone as a group, but if you see a fruit vendors still works of Village Hall on the day on the merits and with the at the Memorial Day Parade veteran, especially at this the orchard that has been of the event. The Garden store scheduled to close on May 31st at 9AM on time of the year, a personal in his family since 1712 Tour is the Bronxville on June 3rd, we did not Pondfield Road. thank you is certainly in and our produce supplier Beautification Council’s order. We do have heroes is the fourth generation to major fundraiser and all among us. work on the family’s black proceeds go directly back

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“Q” From Page 1 had a long relationship the ultimate title of senior while texting others on his Legislator is known as a event was advertised as a with Plunkett, he was never advisor and was granted county issued Blackberry. common sense sort of guy low level fundraiser and seen during the campaign. an 18K salary adjustment. Then there is legal who doesn’t thrive on chaos invitations were mailed out Conventional wisdom leads Upon reflection, he wasn’t eagle Mary Mahon, a or bad language. Aiding to his volunteers. Someone us to believe that theirs was around during the campaign loyal Westchester County him is his trusted assistant should remind Mr. Astorino a relationship forged during either. Astorino claims Republican Committee Katy Delgado whom he that his volunteers were Astorino’s days as a school that McCormack has been a Chairman Doug Colety brought up with him from volunteers because they board trustee. The reality is trusted advisor for years yet soldier who is overseeing the 8th floor. That was the couldn’t afford to be donors that Plunkett could further other than being a custodian the housing debacle with last staff decision Mr. Oros and that 150.00 is not low the “Friends and Family” of the controversial her assistant Barbara has made; he has since lost level in this economy. His network of movers and Westhelp money given Tubiolo, who just so any further say in picking former volunteers are not shakers. However, movers to Valhalla Schools for happened to be elevated his staff. He is saddled earning the big bucks the and shakers are who you being good neighbors to a from the Westchester with two women who are ensemble cast on the 9th need when you want to homeless shelter, what has County Board of Elections holdovers from the days floor are making. broker deals. McCormack done? when her husband Justin of former CE Andy Spano It seems Rob Astorino Also sitting on the ninth At least Laurence Gottlieb delivered a winning ward . One takes phone calls has forgotten about moving floor are Christine Sculti has an impressive resume to Rob Alberty in Yonkers. from constituents and the the ball down the field in and John Cerino, formerly with Entergy. Ms. Mahon holds the other answers emails. Mr. order to score a touchdown of Mayor Phil Amicone’s Perhaps the oddest crucial position of being Oros also has Ms. Balestri with the taxpayers of office in Yonkers. To acquisition to the ninth the individual who must in his department; rounding Westchester County. He’s hear Sculti is to believe it floor has been Dina dance with the Federal that group is Brendan delivered a watered down was she and Cerino who Balestri, assistant to the Monitor, the municipalities, Murnane, the boy Friday version of a health care orchestrated Astorino’s long suffering Chief of the developers, and Kevin intern from Astorino’s package, and taken credit campaign and catapulted Staff George Oros. A Plunkett simultaneously, all campaign days. Murnane for reducing Westchester him to victory. For their Facebook friend of Rob while getting this housing is mutating his campaign County Police overtime heroic efforts, Sculti was Astorino’s from high project off the ground. Poor role to accommodate the by 25% during the first rewarded a position as school, Ms. Balestri resides Ms. Mahon; she had no pay afforded on the 9th quarter. He has held two Plunkett’s right hand and in Pennsylvania and idea that she would have to floor. He is the individual staff meetings with County Cerino the scheduler for commutes to White Plains learn to dance the Virginia who drives Astorino to Employees to inform them the new CE. While the on a Monday morning Reel when she accepted fundraisers, funerals, and of impending layoffs and men and women who work and returns back to this position. It was other photo ops. When has imposed a hiring freeze. at Yonker’s City Hall are Pennsylvania on a Friday believed that Mahon would he’s not doing thiat, he may He’s driving himself to all breathing a sigh of relief afternoon. Good thing that be assisting Westcehster be recognized in public work as promised, albeit to be rid of Ms. Sculti, one the county doesn’t have a County attorney Bob acting the ambassador for in a 5-months old county- has to wonder what the residency requirement or Meehan on this project or the CE or on the 9th floor owned SUV, and strolling holdovers from the Spano Ms. Balestri would be out visa versa, but as witnessed posting on his Facebook about Mamaroneck Avenue regime think of her. If of luck.. But one must by numerous residents, account. George Oros on nice days. Christine Sculti has been wonder, what did she do Bob Meehan can be seen must drive home every Sadly, Rob Astorino elevated to a management for Astorino to have gained walking down Main Street, night with a headache from has delivered little to the position within the such a lofty position in a with his wife a few steps this screaming madness. residents of Westchester. administration she must be county government where behind him, looking up at Where is the County a capital “Q”, while John she doesn’t even reside? the Ritz Carlton Towers Executive in the midst of all Cerino, who has a clerical Rounding out the new like the forlorn tourist he this personnel jockeying? position, is merely a small faces on the ninth floor are has turned out to be. He’s out doing exactly I.M. Cob will be checking “q”. It seem size matters! Rob Alberty who managed The most interest what Andy Spano did… in every now and then to Ned McCormack is Astorino’s protagonist in this attending fundraisers, see if Rob and the 9th floor another interesting addition Yonkers’ Campaign interesting cast of characters hosting fundraisers, and collective ever look down to the ninth floor. Hired Headquarters, but now is Chief of Staff George building his war chest for the street to realize we as the media director, he conducts low level Oros. Mr. Oros, a longtime his next term. As a matter spotted them first. was suddenly elevated to intergovernmental affairs, former Westchester County of fact, the May 18th

We Welcome Your Comments Tell us if we are doing something wrong, and what we are doing right. [email protected] WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 11 Departmental Investigation vs Criminal Investigation Over Pilfered Gasoline stipulated between the Honorable Supreme Court in a manner reminiscent of There is no law that can By Hezi Aris union membership and City Justice Orazio Bellantoni, a Salem witch hunt. demand civility, prudence, Hall, was instead eclipsed he agreed. This was after In life and in politics, patience, wisdom, and Yonkers, NY -- Three by a criminal investigation Justice Bellantoni asked there are no coincidences. leadership from Mayor Yonkers fire houses conducted solely by the if the YFD was intent It is curious that a three Phil Amicone. His very dispense fuel. Of those Yonkers Police Department on thwarting a criminal year investigation should conduct in light of this issue three, two dispense diesel (YPD). investigation. Assured that only in mid April come to demands the strong mayor fuel, and one dispenses A departmental the preliminary action of a a “conclusion” not fully form of government must gasoline. The use of any investigation demands an departmental investigation disclosed, and that rather be recalibrated to assume a of those fuel dispensers appearance and testimony must be the first step, and than bring the allegation balance commensurate with require the use of a key of those called upon to if warranted, moved to before the public, is instead the Yonkers City Council. and code consisting of a testify and permitting a criminal investigation, a kangaroo court styled to For that, I thank Mayor specific number of digits union representation. A was a reasoned approach, deflect Yonkersites from Amicone to make such an gleaned from one’s social criminal investigation Justice Bellantoni yesterday their gravest of concerns eloquent and long awaited security number. A highly inculcates constitutional ordered a Restraining over COY’s paralyzed case for equality among the secure method, but not rights, legal representation, Order against the City of budgetary state of affairs branches of government. foolproof. Among the a right not to incriminate Yonkers (COY) for a two that have soared beyongdthe Perhaps come January 1, Yonkers Fire Department oneself, to plead the Fifth weeks time period that divulged $109.5 million 2011, Yonkers Inspector (YFD), it would likely take Amendment, among does not preclude COY deficit. General Dan Schorr less than 30 seconds for other protocol. Despite from pursuing a criminal Mayor Amicone is mad will garner the intestinal any of the YFD personnel the disparity formalized investigation thereafter. at everyone. He believes fortitude he requires to be to get a hold of any other in various writings, and Rather than a cooling he can bully his staff to the inspector general he firefighter’s social security contracts, the YFD believes off period, Yonkers City derisive and illegal action envisioned for himself and number, and if inclined, their union contractual Councilman Dennis upon Yonkers Firefighters. which he professes to be. knowing the number of rights and agreements Shepherd adept at He cannot. He must stop This legal situation must digits required to activate have been usurped by a mimicking Mayor Phil his out of control rantings be permitted time to be the firefighter “gasboys”, criminal investigation that Amicone’s accusatory and “chill”! resolved through the courts would be able to pilfer is not yet called for. City finger pointing Mayor Amicone has and be demanded to be open almost unnoticed. In Hall is in fact claiming it is proclivitites, and Yonkers anointed Commissioner of to the public specifically reality, incongruities had conducting a departmental City Council Minority Human Resources Brian because the public has had been noticed over the last investigation yet is in fact Leader John Murtagh’s Lucyk to do his dirty work. its face rubbed in it by the three years yet mention of conducting a criminal ability to regurgitate At most, the findings antics and histrionics heard the pilfering concern was investigation. Therein Mayor Amicone’s in kind regarding this situation will from City Hall. only brought to the union’s lies much contention and sentiment with the use of fall upon a few people who Mayor Amicone definitely attention about mid April growing animosity and prolific verbal calisthenics, will or will not be found to needs a plan, this one is not of this year. mistrust. an attempt to demean every have pilfered fuel for their working. What was to be a In fact, when the member of the YFD by use or others. Those found departmental investigation, YFD presented their oral allegations yet to be proved guilty will be punished to a contractual formality arguments before the have mesmerized Yonkers the letter of the law.

Sen. Stewart-Cousins Announces Legislation to Empower Law Enforcement Against Vehicle Thefts Albany, NY -- On May their efforts to break up sell stolen cars to unwitting in the City of Yonkers,” said to target and prosecute 18th, Senator Andrea auto theft rings. buyers. Senator Andrea Stewart- these career criminals, we Stewart-Cousins (35th Under current law, Senator Klein’s Cousins. “Senator Klein’s can catch repeat offenders SD) announced passage suspects may only be legislation will enable legislation changes the faster and prevent future of legislation (S1899A) to charged with felony auto prosecutors to bring felony current approach to address crimes from happening. provide law enforcement theft if they have a prior auto theft charges against a broad range criminal I urge the Assembly and with new tools to prosecute conviction for auto theft, but suspects convicted of a offenses and will enable the Governor to join me in career car thieves. This convictions for other prior wider range of offenses, law enforcement to fully my effort to protect New bill, introduced by Deputy vehicle related crimes do including unauthorized use prosecute the numerous Yorkers from auto theft,” Majority Leader Jeff Klein not apply. Car thieves often of a vehicle, grand larceny, organized criminal rings said State Senator and (D-Bronx) makes it easier operate in organized rings criminal possession of a involved in auto theft.” Deputy Majority Leader to bring felony auto theft that include auto strippers, vehicle, auto stripping, “Repeat car thieves Jeffrey D. Klein (D-Bronx/ charges against suspects or “chop shops,” and auto or illegal possession of have a serious and costly Westchester). previously convicted of a identity theft specialists, a vehicle identification impact on the quality of broader range of vehicle- who change a vehicle’s number. life in multiple New York related crimes, assisting unique identification “Approximately 350 neighborhoods. By making police and prosecutors in number, making it easier to auto thefts occur each year it easier for law enforcement 12 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 Ed Koch Movie Reviews enjoyed watching Queen about, but the film provides Latifah on the screen. She a feel good evening of has a beautiful face, an entertainment. extraordinary smile, and I saw the movie at the for a big-boned woman, she AMC Loews 34th Street carries herself so naturally Theater at 8th Avenue, and and unaffectedly across the the audience was almost 90 screen. I don’t know the percent African American. By Edward I. Koch derivation of the “Queen” When I sat down a young in her stage name, but she woman to my left said, “Are “Just Wright” (+) certainly deserves the title. you Mr. Koch?” When I Leslie, an excellent told her I was she asked This film is an physical therapist, has why I was seeing the film updated version of two given up on meeting Mr. and if I liked Queen Latifa. fairy tales: “Cinderella” Right. Her godsister, I told her I did and that I and “The Ugly Duckling.” Morgan (Paula Patton), would send her a copy of Queen Latifah exhibits the is slim, gorgeous, and my review by e-mail. The persona of both characters knowledgeable about men. audience loved the film, in her role as the single, Scott first meets and is applauding loudly when it ended. I believe you will enjoy it as well. “Cinderella” and “The Ugly Duckling” are moral tales that will be told again and again. Their lessons span the centuries: good overcomes evil, and that is a happy ending. Henry Stern said: “This is a formulaic romantic The Italian family her husband by taking up comedy which will make featured in the film lives on with Tony. Vince’s teenage everybody who watches it City Island, a narrow strip son, Vinnie (Ezra Miller), feel good. The novelty is its that is part of the Bronx and is attracted to overweight largely African American the site of several seafood women, and his daughter, cast in a crossover movie restaurants. Vince (Any Vivian (Dominik Garcio- intended to appeal to white Garcia) plays a loutish Lorido), has secrets of her audiences as well. The but sensitive prison guard own. She’s a stripper. background is professional who, unbeknownst to his The entire script basketball with both ladies family, is taking acting is like an Italian opera seeking to land a LeBron classes in the evening. He performed buffoon style. James. One is full figured sees himself as a second In the end, I left wondering and kind hearted. The coming of Marlon Brando, if Andy Garcia recognized other is slim and beautiful, voice and all, conjuring this picture for the dog that greedy and manipulative. up Brando’s portrayal of it is. Which one gets the star? Stanley Kowalski in “A You figure it out.” Streetcar Named Desire.”

Other characters “City Island” (-) include a convict, Tony (Steven Strait), who is The Honorable Edward The movie was allowed to leave prison if I. Koch served New York charmed by Leslie but is generally well received 35-year-old Leslie Wright. he has a sponsor. Vince City as its 105th Mayor even more captivated by by other critics who The charming, handsome becomes his patron. At from 1978 to 1989. Morgan when she makes overwhelmingly gave it the prince in the movie is acting school, Vince enjoys her move. Unexpected equivalent of three stars. I, Scott McKnight (played the social company of incidents enter their lives, on the other hand, am giving by the rapper known as another student, Molly including Scott suffering a it a minus. I thought it was Common). Pam Grier and (Emily Mortimer), but no knee injury while playing a mawkish soap opera and James Pickens, Jr. portray intimate relationship is basketball and Leslie that the performances of Leslie’s devoted parents. involved. Vince’s wife, becoming his physical the principals were over All are excellent in their Joyce (Julianna Margulies), therapist. The plot is the top. roles. believes he is having an nothing to write home I have always affair and seeks to betray WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 13 Ed Koch Commentary Questioning Sexual Orientation of a Candidate; Stop and Frisk Incident; Revising Miranda Warning; andUrging the Boycott of Arizona lesbian. Instead, shouldn’t against people because of New York City. According the stated reasons for the the White House have their sexual identity. Only to the Times, a Supreme stops…the center found denounced the speculation 20 states in the Union – New Court decision permits that about 15 percent of the and conveyed that such York being one of them – police officers “to detain stops last year cited “fits inquiries are improper? have such legislation. The someone briefly based on a relevant description… By denying she is lesbian current debate regarding ‘reasonable suspicion,’ a but in nearly half the instead of denouncing the Ms. Kagan’s candidacy threshold lower than the stops, the category called inquiry, the White House demonstrates the imperative probable cause necessary ‘furtive movements’ was By Edward I. Koch is implicitly stating sexual of passing such legislation. for a formal arrest.” cited. Nearly 30 percent orientation is a legitimate How many U.S. Senators Pursuant to a City Council of stops cited a category Questioning the sexual issue of discussion in the now considering Ms. law, since 2001 the NYPD called ‘casing a victim or orientation of a candidate confirmation process. Kagan’s nomination will has provided public reports location;’ nearly 19 percent for the United States On the positive side, vote for such legislation? listing the number of stops cited a catchall category of supreme court or any other raising the issue of Ms. Write to yours and let’s on a quarterly basis, and the ‘other.’” public employee or official Kagan’s sexual orientation find out. Also, ask your reasons for those stops. The most important is out of bounds may give more support to member of Congress. The Times reported statistics to bear in mind are Solicitor General Elena Barney Frank’s bill with 198 ••••• on the analysis done by the that of the 575,000 stops Kagan’s sexual orientation co-sponsors in the House On May 13th, New Center for Constitutional made in 2009, 490,000 of is the subject of much and Senator Jeff Merkley of York Times reporter Al Rights, the organization the stopped were blacks discussion in blogs and Oregon with a similar bill Baker wrote a column on which secured the raw data and Latinos, compared with mainstream newspapers. and 45 co-sponsors barring the data revealed in a 2009 on which the 2009 report 53,000 whites. According The White House response employment discrimination police report describing was based after instituting denied Ms. Kagan is a by the federal government stop and frisk incidents in a lawsuit: “In examining see Ed Koch Pg. 14 14 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010

Ed Koch Commentary From Page 13 to the Times, blacks and I want my readers Those statistics warning are given. Holder law enabling cops to stop Latinos were “nine times to know the arguments of are indeed alarming and apparently is concerned those they believe to be as likely as whites to be those who support stop and a legitimate cause for that treating terror suspects illegal aliens and ask for stopped by the police.” frisk in New York City as concern. I see them as like anyone else would give identification. Some who Following the stops, it is enforced today. One relevant to how the police them an opportunity to stop disagree with that law reports The Times, the defender of the practice should direct their energies talking and cooperating and -- according to the Pew “arrest rates were virtually is Heather Mac Donald, and budget towards would require the police to Research Center survey, the same. Whites were contributing editor of City crime control, including quickly present the suspects 59 percent of Americans arrested in slightly more Journal, published by deterrence, apprehension, to a judge. support the intent of the than 6 percent of the stops, the Manhattan Institute. conviction, punishment I believe not only Arizona law -- think they blacks in slightly fewer She defends the disparate and rehabilitation. In my in cases involving terror should impose their views than 6 percent. About 1.7 racial and ethnic statistics opinion, those horrifying charges, but in all criminal on the citizens of Arizona percent of whites who were which are part of the police statistics do not provide cases, the Miranda rules by engaging in a boycott stopped were found to have report on the stop and frisk a defense to the racial should be abolished or of that state, including its a weapon, while 1.1 percent program of 2009. In her disparity in New York City’s sufficient exemptions products, sports events, of blacks were found with May 14 column, she wrote: stop-and-frisk program, added, as to allow law and tourist attractions, one.” “Here are the because the results of that enforcement and society the unless or until it rescinds What did these crime data that the Times program in 2009 show benefit of a human reaction, the law. indignities especially doesn’t want its readers to that blacks stopped were which often is to confess to I believe that we imposed on New York City know: blacks committed arrested at a lower rate the crime committed. Our should rely on lawsuits minority residents produce? 66 percent of all violent than whites and found to judicial system has decided and education rather 762 guns, compared with crimes in the first half of be carrying proportionately not to take advantage of than boycotts to reform a gun buy back program 2009 (though they were fewer guns. This convinces that human emotion and domestic actions we referred to by the Center only 55 percent of all stops me that the program, as instead to warn suspects disagree on. If California in the Times article and only 23 percent of the currently administered, is that they have the right to and New York City go the “conducted by the police city’s population). Blacks racially discriminatory. remain silent and to receive way of boycott, shouldn’t at several Bronx churches committed 80 percent of all We have a great police free legal representation if California be boycotted one day in January [which] shootings in the first half commissioner in Ray Kelly they cannot afford it. To for having supported yielded 1,186 guns.” On of 2009. Together, blacks and a superb police force in sum up, they are told “for Proposition 8 which took the other hand, according and Hispanics committed the NYPD, and instead of heaven’s sake, shut up.” away the right of same-sex to The Times, “the stops led 98 percent of all shootings. engaging in recriminations, Currently, if Miranda couples to marry? Forty to 24,000 arrests and the Blacks committed nearly all interested persons warnings are not provided years ago, New York State seizing of 6,000 weapons, 70 percent of all robberies. and organizations should in a timely way, the voted down the Equal other than guns.” Whites, by contrast, look for a positive and confession given by the Rights Amendment, which The conclusion that committed 5 percent of all constructive solution to the suspect is not useable at the constitutionally would I draw from all this is that violent crimes in the first discriminatory enforcement trial, nor is any information have provided women with stop and frisk may help in half of 2009, though they of stop and frisk. If they obtained as a result of all of the rights accorded reducing crime, but it is are 35 percent of the city’s cannot find a remedy, then the confession. Sheer to men. Should women in need of reform in order population (and were 10 it is likely that the courts folly. I also believe all then throughout the nation to remove the obvious percent of all stops). They will. interrogations of suspects have boycotted New York racial bias reflected in committed 1.8 percent of ••••• by the police should be State? statistics. Such bias would all shootings and less than Miranda warnings videotaped. Let me know your be intolerable in any city, 5 percent of all robberies. are now the topic of great ••••• thoughts by directing email but in New York City, The face of violent crime in discussion as a result of Los Angeles’ to [email protected]. which is 35 percent non- New York, in other words, U.S. Attorney General government and some in The Honorable Edward Hispanic white, 24 percent like in every other large Eric Holder’s push for the New York City’s Council Irving Koch served New black, 28 percent Hispanic American city, is almost law to be revised to allow are urging a boycott York City as its 105th and 12 percent Asian, it is exclusively black and more questioning of terror against Arizona because Mayor from 1978 to especially abhorrent. brown.” suspects before those of its recently-enacted 1989. Kagan a Lesbian? Why it Matters I don’t see how liberal come the gloves. But when Media, here’s your “progressive” protestations media-types can write, what it’s one of their own – when question: “Solicitor Kagan, to the contrary, character with those uncalloused, circumstances require that do you identify as a does, in fact, matter. A milky-soft little digits all a fellow liberal undergo a lesbian?” Ms. Kagan, your majority of Americans bundled in bulky kid gloves modicum of journalistic answer is simpler still: still consider sexual and all. Oh, when the target scrutiny – its simpatico “Yes” or “no.” morality – or a lack thereof of their “reporting” is a most sublime. Out with the Pipe down, lefties. Yes, – a pertinent factor in conservative politico, or inquiry; in with the Huggies it is relevant. Most liberals contemplating one’s fitness By J. Matt Barber even Tea Party Joe, off and tushie powder. would disagree, but despite see Kagan Pg. 15 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 15 Kagan a Lesbian? Why it Matters for any public service – behaviors. Homosexual laws; the Employment have a difficult time doing his criticism a step chiefly, perhaps, a lifetime conduct is more akin Non-Discrimination Act; so. The White House has further. While addressing appointment to our most to the aforementioned constitutionality of the Kagan wrapped-up tighter the controversy, he supreme earthly court. gambling or pot smoking Defense of Marriage Act; than Barney Frank in a bluntly said of Kagan’s Every major world behaviors than it is to skin constitutionality of “don’t bustier. nomination: “That is an religion, thousands of color (and for those in the ask don’t tell,” etc.) The question is important act so unbecoming of an years of history and lifestyle, especially men, In April, CBS News for context. The answer, American that she should uncompromising human sodomy most definitely published an online column for instance, might explain be disqualified from the biology have established involves rolling the dice). identifying Kagan – should why Kagan drop-kicked very beginning.” that homosexual conduct To compare “black” or she be confirmed – as the our brave men and women I agree. is among other volitional “heterosexual” to “gay” “first openly gay justice.” of the armed services in the Indeed, whether or not behaviors rightly filed is to compare apples to The White House pounced, solar plexus, during a time Elena Kagan self-identifies under “sexual immorality.” oranges. Understandably, demanded CBS remove of war, by banning military as a lesbian, she has proven Indeed, the majority of many African Americans the article and called the recruiters from Harvard herself a radical anti- folks around the world – find this disingenuous assertion “false charges.” while dean of the law military, pro-homosexual billions, actually – count comparison tremendously CBS dutifully complied, school. She did so in protest ideologue and activist. this a timeless truth. offensive. tail twixt legs, whimpered of the military’s “don’t ask There’s little doubt that she But the controversial Moreover, “heterosexual” away and curled-up don’t tell” policy, calling it would take this activism nature of homosexuality is is the state of sexual behind the rest of Obama’s “a profound wrong” and “a with her to the high court. but one point of concern. normalcy. It’s our God- slobbering media lapdogs. moral injustice of the first So, Ms. Solicitor General, Another involves potential given design. There remains Whereas every liberal order.” if in fact you are “totally conflicts of interest, “real no credible or replicated hack on the planet tripped As it turned out, Kagan’s not gay,” as some of your or perceived.” If we had a scientific evidence to the over one another to demand actions were illegal, and the friends and your president judicial nominee – widely contrary. Homosexual Mark Foley, Larry Craig, very Supreme Court upon claim, then it’s my hope believed a compulsive conduct is but one of many Ted Haggard and, most which she hopes to serve that a few Republican U.S. gambler – tapped to preside sexually deviant behaviors. recently, George Rekers slapped her down with its senators might take the over gambling cases, would Even Darwin’s theory of divulge the most intimate 8-0 decision upholding time to introduce you to it not matter? If we had a evolution, which imagines details of their own bizarre the Solomon Amendment, a nice fellow by the name nominee credibly rumored “survival of the fittest,” (allegedly) sexual appetites, which would have allowed of Phil A. Buster. Believe to use medical marijuana would seem to bolster with Kagan, they’ve the Department of Defense me, it’s a match made in who might someday rule this self-evident truth. suddenly lost interest. to withhold federal funding heaven. on the legality of medical You can choose political Although the mainstream to Harvard if it failed to marijuana, wouldn’t such correctness. I choose moral media refuse to do their job, reverse its discriminatory information be germane? and biological correctness. some in the homosexual- policy. And before you liberals Still, Kagan’s “sexual activist press are stepping- Ed Whelan, head of the Matt Barber is an throw out that favorite red orientation” remains the up to fill the vacuum. Ethics and Public Policy attorney concentrating in herring: “By this logic, pink elephant in the room: Homosexual blogger Center in Washington, constitutional law. He is Clarence Thomas shouldn’t Can a sitting justice, Andrew Sullivan, for D.C., said of Kagan’s author of the book “The rule on cases involving race potentially engaged in the instance, writing in The activism: “At a time of Right Hook – From the or sexuality because he’s a homosexual lifestyle, be Atlantic, opined: “In a free war, in the face of the grand Ring to the Culture War” black heterosexual male” trusted to rule on cases that society in the 21st century, civilizational challenge that and serves as Director – remember: skin color might well grant special it is not illegitimate to ask radical Islam poses, Kagan of Cultural Affairs with is a neutral, immutable preferred government status [whether Kagan is gay]. treated military recruiters Liberty Counsel. Send characteristic. Being black to some – including that very And it’s cowardly not to worse than she treated the comments to Matt at is what someone is. justice – while, at the same tell.” high-powered law firms jmattbarber@comcast. On the other hand, time, eliminating certain But Kagan ain’t tellin’, that were donating their net. (This information is being “gay” is what free-speech and religious- and the media ain’t askin’. expensive legal services to provided for identification someone does. It involves liberties rights enjoyed by Of course, even if they anti-American terrorists.” purposes only.) feelings and changeable others? (i.e., hate-crimes were inclined to ask, they’d Newt Gingrich took

New York Civic: Incumbents Imperiled An Abbreviated Almanac Independence on July 4, purchased the land from 2009 as 698,473. That is The gold rush to California 1776 in a place also called the Russian Empire under about 1.2 people per square in 1849 inspired the name the City of Brotherly Love. Czar Alexander II for $7.2 mile. of the San Francisco The 49th state to be million, which is a trifle We report to you on football team, the 49ers. admitted to the union was less than two cents per acre. intercontinental visibility, The East Coast equivalent Alaska. Statehood came in The state’s area is 586,412 which has been a public is the Philadelphia January 1959, just 92 years square miles, which is issue. On a clear day, it is By Henry J. Stern 76ers basketball team, after the United States, more than twice the size of possible to see across the which recalls the signing through Secretary of Texas. The Census Bureau of the Declaration of State William H. Seward, estimated its population in see New York Civic Pg. 16 16 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010

New York Civic: Incumbents Imperiled From Page 15 Bering Strait from Alaska primary has been called challenging the status quo. incumbents. securing pledges to support to Russia, but only from another example of However, there appear at Although the facade is one reform from candidates for Little Diomede Island, the unpopularity of this time to be relatively of democracy and free and public office is an example which is 2 1 /2 miles from officeholders, although few, which means that most open elections, the reality is of what can be done by Big Diomede, part of other issues were involved incumbents, unpopular as that it is difficult and costly individuals who unite to Russia. in her contest. Nationwide some may be, are likely to to challenge an entrenched seek change. The Diomedes are polls have repeatedly shown be re-elected. politician. Nonetheless it The first day to collect located in the middle of a low level of confidence in The ballot access can be done. Many people signatures this year is the strait between the two public officials, as well as a requirements in New would vote for change if June 8; the last day to countries. Little Diomede desire for change. York State are formidable, they had an alternative to submit them to the Board is home to about 170 Inuits What about New York? and designed to exclude the incumbent. of Elections is July 15. of the Inupiat tribe. Big For years, we have known competitors who do It is said that incumbents Candidates are advised Diomede had an Inuit that New York State has one not have the support of are difficult to defeat, to collect at least twice as population as well, but they of the most dysfunctional political machines. To run but in most cases this is many signatures as required, were deported by the Soviet legislatures in the United for the Assembly, one must conjecture. In fact, we do preferably three times, authorities to the mainland, States. The mutiny in the collect 500 valid signatures not know how vulnerable because names may be and the larger island now Senate last summer left no of voters in the party and in the majority of incumbents challenged and signatures has a military presence. So winners; the month-long the district, and for the State truly are, because no one invalidated by opposition saith Wikipedia. spectacle, ending with Senate the requirement attempts to run against attorneys and operatives. If Voters Show Their victory for the pirates, is 1000 signatures. In the them. If incumbents are you are inclined to run for Discontent was an embarrassment to past, many signatures have impossible to topple, why public office, and you have As the mainstream press both parties. This year been excluded on technical do party machines across enough friends to help you, has reported, the voters in the Assembly appears grounds, or on some the nation go to great the stars are aligned. primary states showed their unusually supine. The defect in the witnessing lengths to deter candidates Now is the time for all discontent with incumbent inability of both houses of the signatures. People from challenging their good people to come to the politicians by the defeat and the governor to agree who sign petitions can officeholders in primaries? aid of their state. of Senator Arlen Specter on a budget is but the most be dragged into court by We do not endorse in Philadelphia and the recent example of failure to hostile attorneys to explain candidates or urge specific Henry J. Stern writes as victory of Dr. Rand Paul, transact business in a timely the circumstances of their individuals to run or not to StarQuest. Direct email son of Congressman Ron and reasonable manner. signing. The expensive and run for public office. But to him at StarQuest@ Paul of Texas, a former One would think that with time-consuming process of in America, people do have NYCivic.org. Peruse Mr. Presidential candidate. The the failures of the legislature defending petitions works the opportunity to compete Stern’s writing at New York relatively poor showing of and the wave of discontent a hardship on candidates to try to effect change. The Civic. Senator Blanche Lincoln in with the incumbents, there with limited resources who work of Mayor Ed Koch the Arkansas Democratic would be many newcomers are less well known than and New York Uprising in

Ed Koch Commentary: Jerusalem: We Must Not Forget You By Edward I. Koch the city’s inhabitants. Muslim states have never the Jewish state. Egyptians city’s population which is I received numerous recognized the legitimacy and Jordanians don’t roughly one-third Muslim, Over the years I responses to that commentary, of the State of Israel as a travel to Israel as tourists, two-thirds Jewish, and two have written extensively many from people who Jewish state. Their refusal and occasionally when percent Christian. about Israel, the Palestinian are Jewish. Most of them to do so raises legitimate professionals such as lawyers I want it to be clear that Authority, and Islamic supported my position, suspicions as to whether or writers do, they run the I believe my proposal should terrorism. I support a but about ten percent said they are really interested in risk of expulsion from their not be considered unless and two-state solution to the it was unrealistic. Those peaceful coexistence with professional organizations. until the Palestinian Authority Palestinian-Israeli conflict: who challenged me do not Israel. The claim that a state In contrast, Israeli tourists and the Arab countries the Jewish State of Israel and believe that the Palestinians should not have a Jewish go to Jordan and flock to the unequivocally accept the the State of Palestine living would accept a Jewish state character is nonsensical. Sinai in Egypt. presence and legitimacy of side by side in peace. in their midst. They believe Being Jewish can refer to For these reasons the Jewish State of Israel. In a recent commentary, the Palestinians would prefer either religion or ethnicity, or and others, there is Before that happens, the I wrote that I believe the that Israel just wither away both, e.g., I am both. Some understandable skepticism status quo in Jerusalem 3,000-year-old City of with the passage of time Muslim countries use Islam about whether Palestinians should be maintained. Jerusalem could remain or as a result of wars and to describe their nation, and Israelis could ever share Let me know your undivided, while having terrorism. e.g., the Islamic Republic of Jerusalem in the manner thoughts at eikoch@ within it the capitals of the I don’t doubt that Iran, the Islamic Republic that I envision. I imagine a bryancave.com. two states. Jerusalem would a significant number of of Pakistan, and the Islamic time when Palestinians and be open to everyone, insure Palestinians and other Republic of Afghanistan. Israelis will elect a common The Honorable Edward I. religious freedom to all, and Arabs hold those views. I am also troubled by the mayor and will elect borough Koch served New York City allow each religion to control Indeed, most bothersome fact that Egypt and Jordan presidents to oversee day-to- as its 105th Mayor from and operate its holy places for me is the fact that since -- the only Arab countries day municipal issues such as 1978 to 1989. with maximum authority, the establishment of the to enter peace treaties with housing and sewage, and a under one mayor and a city State of Israel in 1948, the Israel – have refused to city council that will assure council elected in districts by Palestinian leadership and normalize relations with fair representation of the WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 17

Weir Only Human: Once Upon a Time in America From Page 1 murdered by illegal aliens in the job in the first place. No of our elected officials have of their country and then northward and craving the last few years. Perhaps sooner did the law pass than been similarly intimidated they’re forced to defend the lifestyle we enjoy. In it took the recent murder it began to be attacked by by organized groups themselves against charges a perfect world we could of a prominent rancher by liberals across the country, whose only interest is in of racism from the invaders. absorb the masses and illegal alien drug dealers to led by the president and his the creation of an open Furthermore, we’re being still have a flourishing make state leaders decide attorney general, who, by border policy that would told not to refer to them as economy. But in the real they had enough. Hence, the way, admitted that he undermine our sovereignty. illegal aliens; we should use world, we must either fight the legislature enacted a hadn’t read the new law. The lack of respect for our the term, “undocumented for our way of life, or go law that does what the feds What has happened to this laws is embarrassingly workers.” So, it’s not into decline like every other refuse to do; protect legal once great country is that evident when we see how enough that these crimes nation that failed to learn citizens from illegal aliens. we have systematically many people climb over are being perpetrated the lessons of history. I The idea is astonishing in been conditioned to become our walls, burrow under against us; we must also suppose we can be thankful its simplicity! pushovers. We are, by any our fences and brazenly soften our language when that we don’t share a border Once upon a time in this objective standard, the stroll across our borders we refer to the criminals. with China. country we’d never have most prosperous country with impunity. If we tried Right now, there are people allowed a situation to get in the history of the world. the same thing in their reading this who are aghast so out of control that it We didn’t get where we are country we’d be lucky if at my reference to them Bob Weir is an would imperil our national by being timid, but that’s we didn’t get shot for our as criminals. That’s just accomplished writer security. That was a time precisely the posture that effort. Yet, if someone were another absurdity that has having penned seven when common sense ruled will cause us to lose it all. to merely utter the word gripped this nation and novels: “Murder in Black the day. Not anymore! Now There was a time when “shot” when referring to a started us down the road to and White,” “City To Die we find ourselves debating the bad guys were afraid solution for this destructive ruin. From the beginning of For,” “Powers That Be,” with people who tell us that to break the law because invasion, he’d be pilloried recorded history it’s been “Ruthie’s Kids,” “Deadly we’re bigots if we expect of the severe consequences by the media as a violent understood that any country To Love,” “Short Stories our laws to be obeyed. that would follow. Not reactionary and probably unable to control its borders of Life and Death” and Arizona passed a law to anymore! Liberal judges become the subject of an will soon be destroyed by “Out of Sight.” Bob Weir stop the illegal invasion and with too much discretion at FBI investigation. the invaders. We are in is a contributing columnist they find themselves being their disposal and too much American citizens the precarious position of to Yonkers Tribune and threatened with boycotts political correctness in have found themselves being a prosperous nation Westchester Herald. from some states and their philosophy, have too in the absurd position of that abuts an impoverished [email protected]. lawsuits from the national often disgraced their role explaining why they are one. There are millions government that didn’t do in the justice system. Many opposed to the invasion of envious eyes looking

The Spoof: Elena “Shorty” Kagan Nixes Nickname nobody will let her forget verses: (about a Mafia princess Steven” was a finalist in that. It’s been nothing but They got little hands who buys herself a face the 2007 Derringer Award Shorty this and Shorty Little eyes transplant and a lot of competition. that, as Kagan moves They walk around trouble). Her story “Even through the long process of Tellin’ great big lies Presidential nomination and Now Kagan worries Congressional approval. that her short stature may “Would you believe,” interfere with confirmation she said, “that when the chances. Just to be on the President was working on safe side, she bought herself By Gail Farrelly a list of nominees, he had a pair of platform shoes. the nerve to call it the Short Also, at her confirmation “Don’t want no short List.” hearings, she’ll be sitting on people . . .” There was more to come. high pillows and wearing a “Sure it’s an honor to When Kagan visited the nice ‘tall’ Uncle Sam-type be nominated for the U. S. offices of Congressional hat that will add several Supreme Court,” Kagan leaders for the requisite inches to her height. admitted yesterday to a ‘chats’ this week, they were reporter, continuing, “but I all playing on their stereos Gail Farrelly is the author hate all the stuff that goes Randy Newman’s song, of three mystery novels. with it.” “Short People.” The part of The latest is “Creamed Standing only three the chorus that goes “Don’t at Commencement: A inches over five feet, want no short people . . .” Graduation Mystery.” Kagan had been nicknamed infuriated Kagan. One of her short stories “Shorty” by the late Justice But even worse is is published online: Thurgood Marshall, and this section of one of the “Get Yourself a Face” 18 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010

Shifting Gears: Two for the Road, The Hybrid and the Sports Sedan fortunately, I didn’t have push of a button, rolls a org) rates hybrids from of money: on the Lexus to. The 2010 S-550 has sunscreen across the back the standpoint of their 600 the difference was the ultimate in adjustable windshield. Each of seating. Drivers and front the rear passengers passenger have a choice of controls their own massage settings, heating window screen. or cooling, seat lengths, The S-550 is lumbar supports, and side near the top of the By Roger supports, all at the touch Mercedes luxury Witherspoon of door-mounted buttons. line, offering modest In addition, every time the speed – it tops out at car goes into a turn, the 130 miles per hour There are some songs side of the chair opposite – with its trademark which seem made for road the turn inflates to keep sleek styling and trips. you firmly in your seat like handling. It looks and feels like a car costing $120,000. It’s propelled by a V-8 greenhouse gas reductions, about $20,000.” engine cranking and their value in terms The UCS gave Mercedes out a respectable of the amount of “forced high marks putting the 382 horsepower, features” they may have. same amenities in both the and is mated to Don Anair, the UCS S-400H and the standard a seven-speed engineer who maintains the S-550, and the price is transmission which Hybrid Center Scorecard ( lower because the gasoline shifts seamlessly in http://www.hybridcenter. engine on the hybrid is a V-6 automatic mode or org/ ), explained that “when producing 275 horsepower manual utilizing the you purchase a hybrid, they – about 100 less than in the paddle shifts behind often come with features all gasoline version. the steering wheel. which are otherwise But its ecological As you might expect, options. The value score we improvement was just The sun was high, a parent cradling a child. It a car like this comes with a created looked at the cost marginal because the the road was dry and, at is surprising at first, as if $1,000 gas guzzler tax. The of the hybrid system vs. the S-400H has what is called 120 miles per hour, the there is an unseen presence EPA estimates the car gets reduction in greenhouse a “mild” rather than full Connecticut landscape in the car reaching out to just 14 miles per gallon in gas emissions and hybrid. “You can’t drive on was a kaleidoscope of you. But you get used to it city driving and 21 MPG spring floral prints which really fast. on the highway. The test seemed to throb in time The passengers in the car had a mixed average with the bass line of the back seats don’t have all of 15 MPG – which means Temptations’ Runaway those bells and whistles. in mostly city driving the Child pounding from the sedan was hanging close to 15 speakers in the Harmon- single digits. Kardon sound system. If you want the same It was warm enough car with better mileage and to have the windows down no sacrifice in amenities or and the panoramic sunroof performance, Mercedes has fully open, yet the air flow the S-400H, its first luxury around the sleek silhouette hybrid. According to the of the Mercedes S-550 kept EPA, the S-400H gets enough of the wind noise 19 city, and 26 highway out of the car that I could But their seats can be heated miles per gallon – which determined how much you the electric motor alone,” pretend I was a teenager or air cooled and recline. is respectable for a large are paying for a percentage Anair said. “You get a 14% again and sing loudly off And to make up for the sedan. In addition, the in reductions. reduction in greenhouse gas key along with the storied lack of personal massagers, hybrid costs $10,000 less “The Ford Escape’s emissions, but you benefit Motown group. each rear passenger has a than the standard model, the base model has three trim from the idle-off feature Back in the mid-60s, personal DVD screen built S-550. That is an unusual levels. But you only get which shuts down the of course, I was driving into the back of the front price switch which earned the hybrid at the mid trim gasoline engine whenever a Nash Rambler with red seats and wireless headsets the S-400H plaudits from level – you’re forced to you stop. bucket seats. Forty-five and controls for personal the Union of Concerned buy the features which are years later I could hardly fit viewing. And if it’s a really Scientists. optional on the standard into trim seats like that and, sunny day the driver, at the The UCS (www.UCS. Escape. It can run to a lot see Shifting Gears Pg. 19 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010 19

Shifting Gears: Two for the Road, The Hybrid and the Sports Sedan From Page 18 “Mercedes has talked Harman/Kardon LOGIC-7 adaptive cruise command. detect body heat is a serious wheels; dual chrome about developing a full system bathes you in During the first 20 minutes advantage in places like exhausts; active bi-xenon of driving above upstate New York, where headlights and cornering 35 miles per hour, Bambi and her cousins lights; driver safety the camera records run into more than 1,200 system; night vision; dual eye motions and cars each week. And while stage front airbags; front the safety system’s Mercedes doesn’t advertise and rear side airbags; head computer monitors this, the infrared beam can curtain airbags. how the driver spot the heated engine of a Interior / Comfort: responds to lane police car waiting behind AM/FM/XM satellite changes and sudden bushes with its lights out and HD radio; 6-disc CD swerves and turns. long before the car is in player; iPod and USB Using that as a range of a radar gun. port; 40-gigabyte hard baseline, the system Slowing down, staying drive; 15-speaker Harman/ then monitors the awake and avoiding tickets Kardon Logic-7 surround driver’s attention are very good things. sound; power sunroof; span. Roger Witherspoon power sunscreens; leather, If you are drifting writes Shifting Gears at adjustable seats with outside your lane www.RogerWitherspoon. massager; wood trim; rear hybrid, and we hope they smooth waves of sound or the camera’s computer com DVD players. move in that direction. without overwhelming and notices what appears to 2010 Merc3edes Benz What you get with the battering you with noise. be inattention and your 2010 Mercedes Benz S-400H S-400H is beneficial but If there is a downside eyes closing, a not powerful enough to to the technology in these warning sound propel the vehicle.” luxury liners, it’s that the is produced and The major cost difference computerized command a message pops between the S-550 and system is not user friendly up in the midst of its hybrid sibling stems and there is a steep learning the speedometer from the larger engine curve for functions which asking is it “time and a $6,000 facelift. The should be intuitive, such for a rest?” all gasoline model has a as the radio or navigation a c c o m p a n i e d sleeker silhouette and 19- system. One should not by the image inch, five-spoke AMG have to read a manual of a steaming sport wheels. to locate the FM radio. coffee cup. It Inside they are the But once learned, the is not quite the same. Both vehicles feature technological innovations computer system six-disc CD players, XM can be impressive. governing the satellite radio, Bluetooth On the safety side the automated, interactive S-550 MSRP: $105,230 cell phone interface and iPod cars are equipped with Audi driven by Will Smith MSRP: $116,995 EPA Mileage: 19 MPG and USB port connections. a small camera on the in I Robot – but it’s heading EPA Mileage: 14 MPG City; 26 MPG Highway There is also a 40-gigabyte dashboard facing the driver in that direction City 21 MPG Highway As Tested Mileage: 21 The driver As Tested Mileage: 15 MPG Mixed monitoring system MPG Mixed Performance / Safety: is augmented with Performance / Safety: 0 – 60 MPH: 7.2 an infrared night 0 – 60 MPH 5.4 Seconds vision camera Seconds Top Speed: 130 which pops a Top Speed: 130 MPH thermal image of MPH 3.5-Liter, 24-valve, the road ahead in 5.5-Liter, 32-valve, aluminum V-6 gasoline the middle of the aluminum V-8 engine engine producing 295 dash in place of producing 382 horsepower horsepower and 284 the speedometer and 391 pound-feet pound-feet of torque; – which becomes of torque; 7-speed 3-phase, mild hybrid, a digital readout transmission with 120-volt electric motor at the bottom of automatic and manual producing 20 horsepower the screen. The mode with paddle shift; and 118 pound-feet of infrared screen all wheel drive; electronic torque. can see images 500 traction control; rack- hard drive to store your and connecting to the side feet in front of the car and and-pinion steering; air own tunes or movies. radar used in monitoring pedestrians are bracketed suspension; internally Whatever your musical lane control and the to make sure the driver ventilated disc brakes; tastes, the 15-speaker notices them. The ability to 19-inch AMG 5-spoke 20 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 24, 2010