WESTCHESTER

VolumeH 5 • Number 184 ERALWHYTMedia.Typepad.com MayD 3, 2010 • USA $2.50

Of Significance Bock To The Future New Roc City and Target Books Too Much Salt, By Geoff Thompson construction on the new Pg. 2 Is This The Best We Can Do? retail space at New Roc Calendar The following statement City could not commence Pg s . 3, 4 against, or performing is from Cappelli Enterprises by the committed date of Campaign Trail more abortions or even Inc. with March 31 of Pg. 5 workplace deaths! Nope. regard to New this year as we Cuisine It’s that Americans in Roc City and had planned. general, and New Yorkers Target as a Pg. 6 Target has, specifically, here it comes: Education future retail h o w e v e r , eat too much salt! OMG! tenant of requested that Pg. 6 Too much salt. How did that property we leave the Government that happen? Who was in exclusive to contract open Pg s . 8 - 12 By Thomas Bock charge here? Can we enact the Yonkers into May. This Humor a law to limit salt content? Tribune and will allow the Pg. 13 Recently, in practically C’mon, let’s go people. Westchester c o m p a n y ’s Letters every facet of the news Let’s get a microphone and Herald. e x e c u t i v e Pg. 15 media, a serious and life stick it in front of Chuck “Target’s contract to board to personally review Op-Ed threatening issue has been Schumer to hear what he be a tenant technically the potential space. We brought to light. You may has to say. expired because our banks have had very positive Pg s . 18 - 21 be thinking that some group Okay, hold on just a had not yet approved the discussions with Target Spoof has been discriminated transaction and as a result see New Roc Pg. 6 Pg. 23 see Bock Pg. 22 Specially-priced “Centennial Referring to... Yonkers Mayor Phil Bricks” Will Help Underwrite Amicone Cancels Library Construction Costs Ed Memorial Day Parade Koch submit to wrapping himself Page 20 in the “Red, White, and Blue” when it suits him but By Hezi Aris remains silent and aloof about a “so-called” decision Peggy “The Grinch Who Stole made a month ago to cancel Godfrey Christmas” is a Dr. Seuss the parade in 2010. Mayor classic. Yonkers Mayor Amicone did not serve in Page 6 Phil Amicone’s decision any of the armed forces. not to hold a Memorial Day He was blessed to have Parade in honor of those survived the horrors of war Matt who made the ultimate that took place in many sacrifice to keep this battlefields abroad while Mount Kisco, NY -- The specially-priced engraved, Barber nation free is a travesty. countless men and women Foundation for the Mt. four-by-eight inch engraved Page 19 It is unconscionable that spilled their life’s blood Kisco Public Library (the “Centennial Bricks” for Mayor Amicone would see Hezitorial Pg. 2 Foundation) is offering see Specially-priced Pg. 5 2 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010

Westchester The Hezitorial From Page 1 HERALD or returned maimed and on his hit list? our ancestors bequeathed Amicone - he may next be WHYTMedia disfigured to maintain The Why hasn’t Mayor Amicone upon this nation - that caught burning the flag. People’s freedoms. responded to a breakdown includes Yonkers. You, Mr Where is your humanity Published weekly Under Mayor Amicone, of costs for every parade Mayor are stealing Yonkers Mayor Amicone? WHYTMedia Yonkers did not celebrate and event “sponsored” birthright. How dare you. Addendum: “For those out @gmail.com the Fourth of July in in the name of Yonkers? Will the Yonkers City of the loop or did not get Tel: 914-562-0834 2090; he canceled the What grant money has Council come to the defense the memo, nothing goes WHYTeditor@ Fourth of July. This year been or can be solicited for of The People? How many down in Yonkers unless gmail.com he permits Memorial Day these events to take place? more times will Yonkers authorized by Yonkers WHYTsubscription to be trivialized under his What are the new criteria Mayor Phil Amicone be Mayor Phil Amicone. @gmail.com watch; he has canceled by which events will take permitted to insult the The Journal News is the Memorial Day Parade. place and others not? City of Yonkers by his NOT a source of news Publisher Will Mayor Amicone next Phil Amicone did not fight outrageous behavior? for the Yonkers Tribune Hezi Aris cancel Thanksgiving Day to keep America free of its From where does Mayor or Westchester Herald.” - and Christmas Day? Will enemies on any battlefield; Amicone’s rage emanate? Hezi Aris, Editor. Editor he also abolish the various today he wants to rob Keep the matches away Hezi Aris days of rest? What is next Yonkersites of the freedoms from Yonkers Mayor Phil Columns Cam Bock Lee Daniels Texas Tough: The Rise Of America’s Prison Empire Marilyn Elie Gail Farrelly “If you want to understand Lisa Fine how politics, not crime Peggy Godfrey control, governs today’s Anthony Greco prison population, read this Diane M. Grassi book. Anyone concerned Joe Klock, Sr. with justice and fairness Edward I. Koch should place this on their Bob Marrone must-read list.” — Charles Richard Nestro J. Ogletree Jr., Jesse Martin McGloin Climenko Professor of Barbara Barton Sloane Law, Harvard Law School, Zuri A. Stanback and author of When Law Henry J. Stern Fails Andy Wainer The United States of down, politically influential Bob Weir America, land of the free, state: Texas. Roger Witherspoon imprisons a greater share With its expansive Advertising of its people than any territory that stretches from [email protected] other country, about 1 out South to West, its racially or call 914-562-0834 of every 100 adults. On any mixed demographics, given day, some 2.4 million and its uniquely turbulent people are history, Texas has played incarcerated, more the vanguard role in We than the populations of America’s punitive Tough that just as convict Tough illuminates for the Boston, D.C., and San revolution: from assembly- leasing and first time the origins Welcome Francisco combined. But line executions to isolation segregation emerged in of America’s prison despite the magnitude of supermaxes, from prison response to Reconstruction, juggernaut. At stake is not Your imprisonment, the story privatization to sentencing so today’s mass just the fate of those living Comments of how one state came to juveniles as adults. While incarceration, with its vast behind bars but the dominate criminal-justice previous histories have racial disparities, must be vitality of the country’s Tell us if we practices nationwide has emphasized the North’s seen as a backlash against democratic ideals. never been told. rehabilitative approach to civil rights. A Southern Robert Perkinson is a are doing Covering 150 years of criminal justice, this is but a style of punitive justice professor of American something American history, Robert fraction of the story. It is the has become increasingly Studies at the University Perkinson’s Texas Tough: retributive and profit-driven dominant as the nation’s of Hawaii at Manoa. His wrong, and The Rise of regime of the South that has politics have swung to the writing has appeared America’s Prison Empire ultimately triumphed, and right. in The Nation, The what we are (Metropolitan Books) is a a plantation-based penal Based on a decade of Progressive, and Boston doing right. sweeping account of race, system once dismissed as archival and legal research, Review, among others. politics, and imprisonment barbaric has become the plus hundreds of interviews Texas Tough is his WHYTEditor@ from slavery to the present, template for the nation. with prisoners, first book. He lives in gmail.com with an emphasis on the Most provocatively, guards, activists, judges, Honolulu, Hawaii. country’s most locked- Perkinson argues in Texas and politicians, Texas WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 3 BxM4C Express Bus Service to Continue Under New Proposal White Plains, NY -- his talks with the MTA my legislative colleagues County Executive Robert and state and county and I have received P. Astorino (left) today officials about regional countless emails and announced a compromise transportation issues that phone calls from residents plan to save the county’s affect bus operations and who were concerned BxM4C express bus to funding. about bus service cuts in Manhattan but still save “This plan adopts their neighborhoods. In county taxpayers about suggestions from the this bipartisan effort, the $1.1 million this year and express route’s riders – legislature was able to work $2.5 million annually some of whom said they with the administration to beginning in 2011. would be willing to pay find a funding solution to “Many of the express higher fares to keep the continue with this popular route riders have asked us Astorino’s plan provides administration and Liberty service – and suggestions service and I am confident to find some way to save the following: Lines Transit, the operators from county legislators, that we have reached this route,” said Astorino. Beginning June 28, the of the route, will study while eliminating the $2.5 an outcome that will be “I am sympathetic to their frequency of the route will the feasibility of the line million taxpayer subsidy,” extremely satisfactory concerns and have been change. Peak service and being “spun off” to Liberty Astorino said. “Ultimately, to those who travel on searching for a way to do limited non-peak service Lines in 2011 and operated much will depend on the route. I’m glad that this. But the county faces will continue on weekdays. without any county subsidy. whether there are enough the administration was a projected deficit of $166 Weekend service will be This would give Liberty riders to keep the route able to propose a suitable million next year, so we eliminated. The fare would the control over fares and viable.” alternative to the overall cannot continue to operate increase in September to schedules. Chairman Ken Jenkins elimination of the BxM4C this route with county tax about $8.50, from $5.50; There is no guarantee (right) said, “Today’s line.” dollars. My proposal strikes all discount fares would be of the route’s survival news is truly a victory for the balance between our ended. past Dec. 31. Therefore, Westchester’s commuters. taxpayers and our riders.” The Astorino Astorino will continue Over the past few weeks, Blood Drives Dedicated to Irvington Police Officer Luigi Osso Irvington, NY -- The To donate blood, please Irvington Volunteer call: 1-800-933-2566 Ambulance Corp will hold Visit: www. a special needs blood drive nybloodcenter.org in honor of Luigi Osso, a To arrange a blood drive, critically injured Village hospitalized at Westchester Sheriff’s Office for four please call 914-784-4639. of Irvington Police Officer. Medical Center in critical years before joining the New York Blood Healthy individuals are but stable condition after Village of Irvington Police Center (NYBC) is one of encouraged to donate his patrol car collided Department in 2008. the nation’s largest non- blood on Wednesday, May head-on with stolen car Please consider donating profit, community-based 5 and Thursday, May 6, being chased by Elmsford blood on Wednesday, May blood centers. NYBC has 2010, between the hours police on April 21. Officer 5 or Thursday, May 6 at been providing blood, of 3:30 PM and 9:30 PM Osso suffered severe Irvington High School, in transfusion products and at Irvington High School head trauma and serious honor of Police Officer Luigi services to almost 200 Theater Arts Building, injuries to his entire body. Osso. Each blood donation hospitals, serving 20 Campus Gym, 40 North He has undergone several can help save up to three million people, in greater Broadway, Irvington, NY surgeries. He is described lives following component New York since 1964. 10533. as active member of the (red cell, platelets, plasma) Police Officer Luigi community, and served separation. People can give Osso, 31, is currently with the Putnam County blood every 56 days. 4 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 US Senatorial Candidate Greenburgh’s 39th Annual Poetry Contest Joseph DioGuardi On the Winners & Finalists to be Announced Greenburgh, NY -- Performance, she will showings of her paintings Level on WVOX-1460 AM Greenburgh’s Arts and speak about growing up and photographs and has Culture Committee will host and living in the famous been part of many major a reception Sunday, May Sugar Hill section of art exhibitions held in with Hezi Aris 16th, 2010 to announce the Harlem, her life’s work, art galleries, churches, New Rochelle, NY -- Joseph For those who crave winners and finalists in its and her experiences as an libraries, state parks and DioGuardi, candidate for more news with a Yonkers 39th annual poetry contest. artist who “marches to the universities in various U.S. Senate, endorsed perspective consider The reception will be held beat of her own heart’s parts of the country. Her by the Republican, listening to Hezi Aris at Greenburgh Town Hall, drum.” The reception and photographs are on exhibit Conservative, Wednesday 177 Hillside Avenue (just talk are free, and open to in the Madeleine Gutman a n d m o r n i n g s off Tarrytown Road) in the public. Gallery, Greenburgh Town Independence at 8:35 am Greenburgh, NY. Poets and Ms. Williams, Hall until July 7th. Parties will when he and poetry lovers are invited an accomplished Let the Poets Speak, speak to On Bob Marrone to attend the reception and photographer, playwright, an anthology of the prize- the Level discuss issues hear winners and finalists painter and poet has winning entries from hosts Richard on the Good read their prize-winning received repeated funding the 2010 contest, will be Narog and M o r n i n g entries. The program will for her work from the Bronx available for purchase in Hezi Aris Westchester begin at 2 pm with readings Council on the Arts, the early fall 2010. from 10 radio program in all age categories. Nine Puffin Foundation and the For more information am through hosted by Bob winners will receive cash Lower Manhattan Cultural about the reception, 11 am, this Marrone. awards. Council. The author of anthology, or next year’s Tuesday, May Immediately following several poetry collections, poetry contest, contact 2, 2010, on the awards and readings, her poems have been Sarah Bracey White, WVOX-1460 the contest’s final judge, used in two national anti- Greenburgh’s Director of AM on your performance poet Nikki domestic violence radio Arts and Culture at (914) radio dial and via audio Williams, will take guests campaigns produced by 682-1574. streaming technology on an exciting journey. Ann Tripp of WBLS Radio. on the Internet at www. Using Conversation-in- She has had numerous solo WVOX.com. YWCA of White Plains Hosts Women’s Networking Event White Plains, NY – The like the complexities of receive the Service to Youth YWCA of White Plains & modern Africa. Her 2009 Award for her outstanding Central Westchester will be Pulitzer-Prize winning volunteer efforts from the hosting its second annual drama, Ruined, tells the organization. “America’s great In the Company of Women haunting story of a woman A unique aspect of Luncheon on May 7, 2010 scarred by the brutal civil the luncheon is a young at the Hilton Rye Town in war in the Congo, and was women’s leadership community radio Rye Brook, NY. performed at the Manhattan component that gives girls This yearly gala offers Theatre Club at New York from local high schools and a dynamic networking City Center. colleges the opportunity stations!” opportunity for women Westchester residents to participate in this in Westchester and Cheryl Whiteman Brooks unparalleled networking -The Wall Street Journal surrounding counties. It and Janifer Lynn Lighten, event. celebrates the agency’s will be honored at the event For more information powerful commitment for their commendable or for details on purchasing to empowering women, achievements in serving tickets, becoming a eliminating racism, and the local community. sponsor, or donating an providing a diverse range Brooks is the Director of item to the silent auction, of enrichment and wellness Consumer Promotions please contact Danielle programming for families for the Beverage Sector Cylich at (914) 949-6227, and children. at Kraft Foods, Inc. and ext. 147, or direct email to

This year, the event will currently serves on the events@ywcawhiteplains. feature award-winning Board of Directors for the com. To learn more about

playwright Lynn Nottage White Plains YWCA. the YWCA’s programs The Voice of The Golden Apple as keynote speaker. Nottage Lightman is the Director and initiatives, visit www.

has received numerous of the Board of the Boys ywcawhiteplains.com. One Broadcast Forum, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801 (914) 636-1460 accolades for her moving and Girls Club of New plays that shed light on Rochelle and was the first social issues and situations woman in 33 years to that fall under the radar, WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 5 Top New Rochelle Democrats Endorse Greg Varian for County Legislator New Rochelle, NY -- New Public Library, Greg has for one Democrat,” said Varian: “Greg has a full Rochelle’s top elected proven himself to be an New Rochelle Democratic understanding of the needs Democrats endorsed Greg outstanding community Committee Chairman of our community and Varian’s candidacy for advocate, with a clear Arnold Klugman. “New region. He’d be a great County Legislator. In a understanding of issues and Rochelle has a big role to addition to the County letter sent to New Rochelle opportunities confronting play in the nomination, so Board, not just for New Democratic district leaders, Westchester County,” read we want to hear from both Rochelle but for Eastchester Mayor Noam Bramson the endorsement. “Each of candidates.” and Tuckahoe too.” and City Councilmembers us has had the privilege of Nomination rules give New The 10th County James Stowe, Marianne working with Greg, and we election will be chosen by Rochelle a majority of votes Legislative District became Sussman, and Barry Fertel admire him greatly. Please district leaders of the tenth to pick a candidate. If the vacant when longtime praised Varian’s experience join us in supporting this legislative district. New Rochelle delegation Legislator Vito Pinto and commitment, and urged exceptional candidate.” Both Varian and decides Wednesday to accepted a post as head their fellow Democrats to New Rochelle Democrats Tuckahoe Mayor John throw its weight behind of the Veterans Service support his campaign. will caucus Wednesday to Fitzpatrick have been one person, that candidate Agency and the Office of “As the past president determine their position invited to Wednesday’s would have a great Drug Prevention and Stop- of his neighborhood heading into a nominating caucus, the first test of advantage heading into the DWI. Pinto’s resignation association, leader of convention next month strength between these two nominating convention. triggered a special election the local bar, and elected at which the Democratic candidates. “We’re moving Mayor Bramson hopes that must occur by July 7, Trustee of the New Rochelle nominee for this special quickly to solidify support that candidate will be 2010.

Specially-priced “Centennial Bricks” Will Klein Honored For Senior Help Underwrite Library Construction Costs Citizen Efforts From Page 1 $100 to encourage more been offered the option of of naming the garden, in sales and to help buy down adding a lengthier message exchange for making a the construction cost of the of up to 168 characters and significant donation, will new library building which spaces. The Foundation appeal to an individual, opened last September will continue to make this a company or another 2009. The engraved larger brick size available organization,” said Zapson. bricks will be installed in to new donors to the “With Mother’s Day, learning and handicap- Buy-A-Brick fundraising Father’s Day, graduation accessible therapy gardens campaign. Bricks can be and wedding season upon surrounding the children’s purchased online at the us, giving an engraved reading room. Construction Foundation’s Web site www. brick that is permanently of the first phase of this mtklibraryfoundation. installed at the Mt. Kisco installation, the return org, at the Library (100 E. Public Library, to mark of the former library Main St), or by calling the these occasions, is a gift building’s butterfly garden, Foundation headquarters at that we hope people will New Rochelle, NY -- On of New Rochelle honored began last week. It was 914-666-2118. consider making” noted Friday, April 30th, Senator Klein for his constant underwritten entirely by Foundation Board Simon. Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/ support and dedication to private donations members Ed Zapson, of Naming opportunities Westchester) received senior citizens across the Tax-deductible Edward Jones Investments for the garden and other the Partners in Quality 34th District. Senator Suzi Centennial Bricks can bear and Judy Simon, president, projects for the Mt. Kisco Award during a special Oppenheimer (D-New an engraved message of up A& J Home Care, Inc. are Public Library should be ceremony hosted by United R o c h e l l e / Ry e / W h i t e to 84 characters and spaces. spearheading the campaign directed to the Foundation Hebrew of New Rochelle. Plains) and Assemblyman Bricks that already sold for for the Centennial Brick office, 914-666-2118, or to In collaboration with the George Latimer (D-Rye/ $250 will be upgraded in drive and to identify a Cappa, Crucy & Co., 914- NY Association of Homes M a m a r o n e c k / N e w size to eight-by-eight inches major gift donation. “We’re 747-0519. and Services for the Aging Rochelle) were also and existing donors have hoping that the privilege (NYAHSA), United Hebrew honored. 6 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Cinco de Mayo: Rick Bayless’ Hot Cheese & Salsa Dip Recipe Makes about 3 cups taste, optional are melted, about 2 to 3 •1/2 cup Frontera Salsa minutes more. (such as Frontera Chipotle, Instructions: 5. Add cilantro and stir Frontera Medium or 1. Mix salsa, beer well to blend. Frontera Jalapeño- and cheeses in a large, 6. Add hot sauce to taste Cilantro) microwave-safe bowl. if desired. •1/4 cup Bohemia beer 2. Microwave on high 7. Transfer to serving •1 package (8 oz) cream (100 percent power) for 2 dish and enjoy warm with cheese, cubed minutes. Frontera Tortilla Chips and •8 oz Velveeta, cubed 3. Remove from oven cut veggies. • 2 tablespoons chopped and stir well. fresh cilantro 4. Microwave on Courtesy of Frontera • Frontera Hot Sauce to high again until cheeses Foods

Despite Tax Increase, New Rochelle Schools New Roc Have Good News City and Williams followed with a admission to the program. Superintendent of Schools presentation of the 2009- However, it was the school had told several residents Target 2010 goals of the school distribution of students who asked about it that From Page 1 detailing the New York that caused the greatest “The observance of the and are hopeful that we State standards, and the concern. Of the two middle Day of Silence is a purely will reach agreement on a support given to children schools, students chosen voluntary expression on the renewed contract that will in the core subjects as from Albert Leonard have part of staff and students. allow Target to become a well as the arts. Computer dominated the program. We neither encourage nor By Peggy Godfrey major player in the exciting labs, smartboards, and Schneider showed how last discourage participation.” new retail complex that will laptops are all included in school year, 72% of the This “day” which is open at New Roc City. The contrast was their expanded technology students came form Albert supposedly a protest against “Should we be unable unmistakable. Bad news efforts. Programs such as Leonard, while this school bullying is promoted by to reach a new agreement, about the proposed City healthy schools and safe year 62% did. Chrisanne a group with a political we have had discussions of New Rochelle School schools “enhance wellness” Petrone. Vice President of agenda and has been called with another prominent budget, which is projected and are integrated with the School Board, wanted a waste of the taxpayer national retail company to have an 3.8% increase physical activity programs. clarifications about the money by Fox News. Last that has expressed interest before tax certioraris are Drawing some number of students from the fall several New Rochelle in the 150,000 square feet included, was followed by questions from the School two schools in the program schools sent letters to of space Target would have a sensational second grade Board members was the and asked whether the parents to ask if they did taken. We have a signed Daniel Webster School PAVE (Performing and auditions were blind. She not want their children to lease with Kohl’s and we musical presentation called Visual Arts) program was told they were blind, by watch an address by the are now seeing a significant “The Weather Show.” presentation by Director number. After the meeting President because it might increase in interest for retail Superintendent of Schools, Marc Schneider, the newly Assistant Superintendent be considered political. space as the economy pulls Richard Organisciak, at the appointed supervisor of art Jeffrey Korostoff clarified But no letters to parents out of the recession. New Board of Education meeting and music. One concern that students, especially were sent to parents about Rochelle is an extremely on April 27, 2010 said he was whether students were at Isaac Young, are being the Day of Silence although desirable retail location. had no change to report on being identified in the early coached on how to better such groups as the American With the recession finally the proposed 2010-2011 grades. The response was present themselves at the Family Association and the subsiding, we have growing school budget because the that this might be too early blind auditions. Illinois Family Institute confidence that we will be state legislature had not since children’s interests During the “Board- have objected to this Day of able to move forward with voted on any additional can change. Children Community Informal Silence because it disrupts the dramatic reconstruction aid. are identified in eighth Discussion” the topic of the the school program. It of the New Roc City retail Daniel Webster grade for auditions and April 16 “Day of Silence” was suggested to Board space that we have long- School principal Joseph encouraged to apply for was questioned. The members that since they are planned.” the policy makers for the schools they need to set a Geoff Thompson is a policy on political activity spokesman for Cappelli in the schools. Otherwise Enterprises. highly undesirable political activities in the school program could result. WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 7 DiNapoli Audit Identifies Revenue Opportunities for Mount Vernon Albany, NY -- Due to an parking fines if collection with MVIDA to ensure inefficient system to collect practices were improved. that expired PILOTs return money owed to it, the City The main reason for this lost to the tax roll in a timely of Mount Vernon missed revenue was the absence of manner; out on approximately a system to monitor and • Determine who is $550,000 in revenue from enforce payments owed to responsible for preparing unpaid rental, utility and the city. and mailing PILOT PILOT (payments in lieu DiNapoli’s auditors found statements to the project of taxes) payments, and that: owners; parking fines, according • The city did not have • Prepare and provide a to an audit released by written procedures to ensure schedule of amounts due State Comptroller Thomas that lease agreements were to the accounting staff P. DiNapoli. The audit, and assisting us,” said monitored and enforced. reconciliation, and responsible for posting the requested by city Mayor Mayor Clinton I. Young, Moreover, not all tenants communication, the city receipts; Clinton I. Young, Jr., Jr. “I suspected that the city had formal leases. As a did not receive $53,686 in • Consider enhanced covered the period January was in dire need of a better result, the city was owed PILOTs due as of December measures that may increase 2008 to February 2009. system of fiscal control as much as $214,950 in 31, 2008; and the collection of parking “In good times or bad, when I took office in 2008. unpaid rents and $58,427 • Because the city collected fines and penalties. local governments must The audit results confirm in associated unpaid only 82 percent of revenue • These measures could make sure they collect the an earlier report from our electric and gas usage as of from parking violation include, but are not money owed to them,” Inspector General and the December 2008; tickets issued from April limited to, using license DiNapoli said. “But need for the best internal • Due to a lack of 2008 to June 2008. If plate readers, instituting now, when every dime controls in our city. We look coordination and the city had achieved civil action or amnesty counts, it becomes even forward to the cooperation communication between the industry-established programs, using collection more imperative that local of the State Comptroller’s the city and Mount Vernon benchmark of 85 percent, services, increasing penalty governments collect unpaid office, and the Mount Industrial Development it would have collected amounts, and enhancing fines, fees and taxes. Vernon City Council and Agency, (MVIDA), the city $87,800 more in revenue. efforts to identify out of Mayor Young requested Comptroller’s office to failed to receive at least DiNapoli recommended state registrations; and this audit, and he’s made a help us to implement $81,016 in tax revenue that city officials: • Establish a standard commitment to implement the recommendations because an expired PILOT • Assign an employee to benchmark collection rate our recommendations.” contained within this property did not revert monitor lease agreements with which to periodically “From the early days of audit.” to the tax roll in a timely and the actions the city will assess the performance of my administration I have During the audit period, manner, and the city did take upon non-compliance the city’s parking ticket looked at ways to increase the city was owed as much not receive $60,000 for with leases and be sure collection system. revenues and I thank State as $468,079 in unpaid relocating sewer lines for a rental payments are timely; City officials generally Comptroller DiNapoli and rental, utility and PILOT project owner. Additionally, • Implement written agreed with DiNapoli’s his team for responding to payments, and could have as a result of procedures to outline the findings and have indicated my request for this audit collected $87,800 more in • the city’s lack of billing, process to address late or they would take corrective non-payment of the rents action. and the reimbursement For a copy of the audit process for gas and electric report, follow this link: http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com charges, and pursue http://www.osc.state. collection of all amounts ny.us/localgov/audits/ owed from lessees; cities/2010/mountvernon. http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com • Improve communications pdf http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com http://www.bashianfarberlaw.com 8 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 DiNapoli Streamlines Unclaimed Funds System Albany, NY -- State “The new system makes faster. During these tough those customers will benefit or policies that banks, Comptroller Thomas P. it easier and faster for New times every dime and every from the time saving corporations, and other DiNapoli launched an Yorkers to get their money minute counts.” efficiencies provided by the entities are required to turn online claims system to back,” DiNapoli said. DiNapoli said the new system. over to the State after they make it easier for New “We’re constantly improving improved system should The State’s Abandoned have been dormant for a set Yorkers to recover money how we process claims for reduce the time-frame to Property Law designates period of time. held in the State Office of unclaimed funds, and this is pay most claims submitted the Comptroller’s Office as For more information and Unclaimed Funds, which a huge step forward. New online to as little as three custodian of the abandoned to check if you are owed holds about $9.9 billion of York has $9.9 billion in business days. Some claims property and is responsible unclaimed funds, visit www. abandoned property in trust unclaimed fund accounts. will still require a mail-in for processing claims osc.state.ny.us or call the for its rightful owners. The That money belongs to New claim form, such as claims on behalf of the rightful toll-free number at 1-800- improved web site will help Yorkers and we want to for estates, companies or owners. Unclaimed funds 221-9311, Monday through many New Yorkers claim give it back. Online claims those that require additional are abandoned accounts, Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. their funds in six easy steps. will help us do that much documentation but even financial instruments, Mayor Marvin’s Column At the municipal level, water resource clean is of popularity began in the disposing of pet waste only we continue to care for all paramount importance. late 1960’s are only now in the garbage. Pet waste our trees and open spaces Water runoff carries being tested for toxicity. placed in bags and dropped by keeping them free of with it whatever can Pesticides remain on lawns in sewers is a major chemicals and pesticides. be dislodged from our long after the little yellow contaminant of our water In addition, we are focusing properties including salt, flags are removed. “The systems due to the growth on ways to decrease soil, leaves, pesticides, working” time period on of dangerous bacteria. By Mary C. Marvin our energy costs for the fertilizer and oil and gas. those signs is simply a • Avoiding washing cars, Mayor of the Village Village lighting grid. The As more of our permeable legislative compromise pets, and patio furniture of Bronxville Village is also fourth in surfaces are covered with between government and on paved surfaces. The the County in tonnage of home additions, patios the chemical companies resulting soap and grit In commemoration of recycled waste materials. and driveways, more and is not based on any heads directly to our Earth Day, the Village In partnership with the runoff is created. This scientific study of the life storm drains. Commercial partnered with other County of Westchester unfiltered water enters of the particular chemicals. car washes actually now community organizations and the Bronxville our storm sewer system If you do choose to use treat and recycle all the this week. We participated School, we are sponsoring before finally entering the an inorganic fertilizer, use water they use and are in a “Livable Communities” another “E Waste Day” at Bronx River. Polluted it sparingly, avoid applying environmentally friendly. Expo and information the Bronxville School’s runoff, which has severe before a rainstorm and Many of these session with the Elementary School parking cumulative effects on fish, purchase the slow release suggestions seem quite Eastchester, Tuckahoe and lot on May 15th from animals and humans, can formula. Once fertilizers small and inconsequential Bronxville Senior Citizens 9AM to 3PM. At this be significantly reduced reach our water bodies, they but a commitment to at Lake Isle on Friday. On event, you will be able to if everyone incorporates promote a decay process adopt them will have a Saturday, the Village of drop off any electronic small preventive measures in algae that exhausts the positive cumulative effect Bronxville, Chamber of equipment including cell into everyday life to oxygen supply fish need to on the health of our entire Commerce and Farmer’s phones, computers and air decrease the amount and live. Village. Market worked together conditioners and be assured pollution of runoff from • Making sure sprinkler As Villagers, we have to bring the market to Park that they will be recycled each property. systems are properly always taken great pride Place for the day. Our meeting all appropriate Preventive measures calibrated so water is not in being in the forefront Green Committee, chaired environmental standards. include: directed onto sidewalks or of many important issues, by Deputy Mayor Glenn As a government, we • Taking the time when driveways. and I believe we should Bellitto, continues to be are endeavoring to lead by making landscaping or Watering deeply into once again take the lead on one of our most active and example and care for your renovation decisions to the soil in early morning the environmental care of enthusiastic. They hosted property and resources consider alternatives to encourages the deep root our beloved Village. We a talk by Doug Wood, in the most efficient and concrete or asphalt surfaces growth of grasses and need to set the standard Associate Director of responsible way possible. and use more porous plants, resulting in healthier for the preservation of Grassroots Environmental However, to truly materials such as brick or vegetation that is more water quality and the Education, a not for profit make a difference – an gravel. drought resistant. natural maintenance of organization with an impact, all Villagers and • Directing any yard runoff If possible, using grass our properties, not through office in Westchester. Just Village institutions need from gutters or sump pumps clippings for composting compulsory legislation, recently, the Village was to be on-board to keep our to grassy areas and not to a and fertilizing. If grass is rather as intelligent selected as one of the five community healthy and road or storm sewer. placed in mounds, avoid stewards of a community greenest communities in sustainable. • Discontinuing the use of locating the piles in areas that is our children’s home. Westchester County. We Since we are located in chemicals and pesticides on that will flow into the sewer are doing a lot but we can the Bronx River watershed, lawns. Many of the lawn system. do more. keeping the quality of our chemicals used since their • Properly collecting and WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 9 Pragmatic and Reasoned Discourse Insinuates Itself in the Yonkers Body Politic others under his command. as services rendered. Ouch. respective easels. It never County Shopping Center, By Hezi Aris MIS, the computer Definitely a bookkeeping dawned on any one of or by Empire City at division, and Civil Service. faux pas, to say the least. them to show the viewing Yonkers Raceway, or by Yonkers, NY -- It was April It was an illuminating All told, Human public or the television Ridge Hill. It seems New 27, 2010. It was the best discussion that did not Resources came prepared audience the photos. It York State law permits of days. It was a pivotal deal with the foreboding to nonchalantly skate by was typical Delbello; businesses situated along moment for Yonkersites financial difficulty we as in previous years. This arrogant and dismissive the interstate 660 feet from all. It was a meeting of were in. In fact, it was a was not to be. But no one of the public. Even so, interstate roads, yet within the minds among elected monotonous telling that saw it coming. HR did not Yonkers City Council an economic development officials, engaged parents, was a plea for more money, have costs at the ready. Majority Leader Patricia zone to be permitted such and those viewing the how the departments were They attempted to appease McDow fawned over the signs. Councilman Larkin televised proceedings. of importance, and worse, by saying they would get presentation dismissive was concerned allowing It was a moment similar despite the cuts, it saw those figures or that figure. of the public. During Mr such signs along the Major to when you witnessed increased spending in other they were not believed. It DelBello’s presentation to Deegan expressway might your child’s first standing aspects of the department seemed a practiced ploy. the councilmembership, open a legal precedence by up, or uttering “da-da”, that would make the minus To add spice to the Mr DelBello stated that which businesses along the or “ma-ma”, or were and plus side of the latest lighting Hutchinson River Parkway told of its occurrence by the ledger end t e c h n o l o g y or the Bronx River Parkway your spouse. It was a day almost where incorporated by may demand similar favor. almost, but not always they began, LED lighting Councilman Larkin said predestined. Yonkersites at about the would permit he would await a ruling closed ranks amongst each same point as Stew Leonards from Yonkers Corporation other tonight. It was a where we had to be “green” Council before making a coming together of sorts; begun. Because by using less decision. it revealed itself despite of no “back-up” e l e c t r i c i t y , Minority Leader Murtagh or because of the financial, material was permit the toyed with Mr DelBello by political, educational, and d i s t r i b u t e d , firm to place pointing out that Article employment prospects following the the “billboard 78, a legal term that could that stood before us and “mumbo jumbo” d e s i g n a t e d ” invite litigation against our city. No one saw it was ludicrous. lighting structure Yonkers for not permitting coming; but it did. Some Besides, even to only face the such signs on other who were witness to its’ Mr Lucyk Major Deegan roadways a major concern. unfurling moments may said it was premature to evening Al DelBello, Expressway, and permit Mr Delbello joked and have been in disbelief, and rationalize the “pink slips” Esq., representing Stew the sign to change every laughed at Minority Leader may be even still, afraid to distributed among staff Leonard’s next came before 15 minutes to promote a Murtagh’s suggestion but imagine it came to pass; but because Albany had yet to the Yonkers City Council to sale item sold at the store. Minority Leader Murtagh it. We became a community pass the budget. if he wasn’t win approval for an light- Majority Leader McDow reminded Mr DelBello of again today. It was such going to get hysterical, emitting diode (LED) sign was quick to point out that his being an officer of the a sumptuous experience, why should anyone else. requested by his client. Mr Amber Alerts would also be court. share it with me, even if Yonkersites had heard that DelBello came armed with incorporated for use of the Muddied by historical it is for the second time. sentimentality for years. photos and renderings. sign. Mr DelBello agreed perspective, the above I promise you we will be Ho hum. The easel upon which and also noted the sign vignettes were too nebulous as dumbfounded as in the Yonkers City the material were placed could be used to promote to discern. first instance. You will be Councilwoman Joan faced the dais, unseen by Business Week, etc. Not All would change under re-reading this story again, Gronowski peppered the the viewing audience, or everyone saw Mr DelBello the masterful queries and again. three representatives from those engaged citizens was carrying carrots under made by Yonkers City The day began at 4:00 Human Resources with who had come to attend his suit jacket. Councilmember Wilson pm. I was exhausted from questions that were soon to the proceedings. If that Yonkers City Councilman Terrero who chaired the an early rise to the studios be characterized by Yonkers weren’t uncouth enough, in John Larkin pointed out Education Committee of WVOX-1460 AM radio City Council Minority order to press his point, Mr that in his discussions with Meeting. Councilman that morning. The bus ride Leader John Murtagh as DelBello summoned his Mr DelBello and Stew Terrero invited Kelly was long to New Rochelle; “loosey goosey” when colleagues to stop before Leonards’ representatives, Chiarella, president of the just as long to Yonkers after he explained that costs each councilmember so Mr Larkin was uncertain Yonkers Council of PTAs, the show. The first part of for labor performed by that they may view the whether to support the effort and Marla Hurban, a former the agenda was to learn of Human Resources, such approximately 36 inches because he was concerned president of YCPTA, Gene the process that brought as the specific skills of the by 24 inches photos. After that the one sign permitted Zilempe, executive vice- about the proposed budget computer geeks at MIS, all the councilmembers for Stew Leonards use president of the Yonkers delineations made by were not written onto a viewed the photo images, would be mimicked by Human Resources. Brian spefic line on a ledger, and Mr DelBello’s colleagues the Stop & shop at Cross Lucyk was there. So were were thereby not collected placed the photos onto their see Pragmatic Pg. 10 10 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Pragmatic and Reasoned Discourse Insinuates Itself

in the Yonkers Body Politic From Page 1 Federation of Teachers Hawkins’ legislation that equity issue.” population in the other Big tenacity to tell it like it is. (YFT), and Anne-Marie would infuse federal funds Mr Murtagh noted that Five School Distrcits could Still, Mr Murtagh has the Smith, vice-president toward education, as one discussions that took place warrant a correction for opportunity to carry the of a local Yonkers PTA possibility of light at the yesterday among some this fiscal year for Yonkers. ball to the other end of the Chapter. end of a dark tunnel. union leaders revealed that The promise has yet to be field for a touchdown. Councilmember Terrero’s Minority Leader Murtagh they had suggestions for formalized. Councilman Councilman Shepherd, assertiveness demanded jumped respectfully into cost cutting and savings, Shepherd’s pit-bull resolve no longer a Mr. Magoo, attention and evoked the discourse pointing out but the fact that they kept for espousing agenda has has been tempered by attentiveness among the that nothing new was heard those concepts close to their moved beyond the formerly almost four months on the protagonists. He asked each that night. The fair funding vest was a “non-starter” for myopic stance toward a job. Bravo. to speak of their concern formula that eluded Yonkers Mr. Murtagh. Mr. Murtagh broader reality. Councilwoman and perspective. hH was for three decades would not prodded Mr Zilempe (YFT) Councilwoman Joan Gronowski has yet to realize subtle and smooth. likely be resolved within for concepts that would Gronowski tied the she has mastered the chess Ms Chiarella told of the timeline for the budget lead to resolution of the financial collapse in Greece pieces more adroitly than needing to maintain the approval process to be fiscal crisis. Mr Zilempe to the reckoning that may anyone, including Mayor riches of music and sports legally concluded under said he could not speak befall Yonkers. “Taxpayers Phil Amicone. in education. She foretold of state statue. The prospects of the suggestions he had are tired of government.” Councilman Terrero the loss of pre kindergarten, for Senator Hawkins’ without Yonkers Public She continued to say, “We today won the respect of summer program cuts, the legislation to be approved School Superintendent might be at that moment all who heard him. He is a prospect of 455 educator and funded for FY 2010- Bernard Pierorazio because in time where we can’t force for good. and support staff cuts, 2011 was a pipedream. “it would be unfair to speak count on government; we Majority Leader McDow and the loss of subsidized Mr Murtagh said, “ I about anything without Mr can however count on must find her voice. She can student transportation. haven’t heard of a single Pierorazio in attendance.” ourselves. You can’t say do it. She has the tenacity; Ms Hurban, always suggestion that is a solution Mr Zilempe was playing don’t cut “A”, or “B”, or she has the drive. She will eloquent on the subject to our $109.5 million the union card tease. Mr “C”; something has to have even greater support matter of “our children” and budget gap.” It seems Mr Larkin said he did not give.” among her colleagues and “my city” realized that she Murtagh was at last seeing think badly of him for “We’ve got to give her constituency were she may have known more than the light of pragmatism; not revealing his hand. back together; we must to ford a course onto a new some and less than others he was leaving political Mr Larkin was respectful suffer the pain together,” road. Her new found pride when it came to education. agenda behind. He noted of Mr Zilempe’s need to concluded Councilwoman in what she can muster After three years of this that the Board of Education have bargaining chips to Gronowski. for the city’s good is one epiphany, she made some was short $43 million. “I represent his membership. While Yonkers City she can manage well. She suggestions. She professed cannot count on Albany or Yonkers Councilmember Council President Chuck must be public about the to be familiar with Senator Washington to resolve the Dennis Shepherd, whose Lesnick stood on the good she undertakes for comfort zone had been in sidelines revealing no the public good. That goes promoting the doctrine position, he diminished for every member of the of getting our fair share today’s historic juncture Yonkers City Council. regarding the educational without a position or On the other side of the funding formula divulged a solution of his own. divide is Yonkers Mayor that despite his knowing Councilman Larkin, Phil Amicone. He will the funds would not be engaged, studied, and need to make amends with forthcoming this year, he independently charged Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, said he would not let up is finding the will to Senator Andrea Stewart- on pursuing a fair funding think outside of the box. Cousins, and Assemblyman formula. Councilman Minority Leader Murtagh Mike Spano. Mayor Shepherd looked at Mr took a gargantuan step Amicone will need to lead Zilempe when he said, toward pragmatism by by example. He must be “This [crisis] is real! Just taking a leadership role. the first to cut his salary because it has been going He drove home the need 15 to 20 percent and that on forever doesn’t mean to find solutions now; to of his staff. Then and only we should give up.” leave hope behind for now. then can he ask likewise Councilmember Shepherd Lest Mr Murtagh blush or of the other employees of said when he spoke to gloat his present change the city. He cannot fathom elected officials in Albany, in stance, let him know he the consequences of not he was promised a remedy would not have savored the following the only course considering the increased moment without the wind before him. student population of honesty, resoluteness Yonkers has much to experienced in the Yonkers of purpose, or ethical learn and much to correct. Public School juxtaposed drive permitted him by . to the reduced student Councilwoman Gronowski WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 11 Eastchester Fire Department Speeds Up Truck Turn-around Time

NEW YORK- On Shawn Stewart, Board Thursday, April 29th, of Fire Commissioners Senator Jeff Klein Chairman Ray O’Hare, (D-Bronx/Westchester) Eastchester firefighters presented a $115,000 grant joined Klein at the to the Eastchester Fire presentation. Department. Firefighters will use the grant to purchase a new jack system, allowing mechanics to repair trucks more quickly and get them back on the streets. The grant will also fund a new dormitory at the department’s headquarters. Eastchester Fire Chief Mike Grogan, President of Eastchester Professional Firefighters Local 916 12 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Gillibrand Submitted $27 Million to Be Funded for Yonkers By Hezi Aris delivered $27 million to the to improve access to a investigations to most City of Yonkers - those are large-scale residential and effectively fight crime. Yonkers, NY -- Yonkers the facts. The junior senator commercial development This program targets drug Mayor Phil Amicone has submitted $27 million planned for the Hudson and gang activity the West admonished United States to be funded for the benefit River waterfront. Side because 85% of Part Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of the City of Yonkers.Read City of Yonkers – West- I violent crimes occur on when he said, “‘Stop about the projects slated for Side Anti-Violence Effort the West Side of Yonkers, election year grandstanding funding: (WAVE); $2,000,000; and are related to illegal and start delivering for City of Yonkers – 2009 City of Yonkers, City drug trafficking and gang Yonkers.” [Read the April Yonkers’ Ashburton Hall, 40 South Broadway, activity. 26, 2010, Press Release: Avenue Widening; Yonkers, NY 10701 Source: Kirsten Yonkers Mayor Amicone $25,000,000; Yonkers , which will spur economic This initiative will fund Gillibrand United States to Senators Gillibrand NY development in Yonkers by drug-sweeps and intensive Senator for New York - and Stewart-Cousins: This initiative will widen equipping the community patrols on the West Side, to Federal Funding Requests ‘Stop Election Year Ashburton Avenue, a with the accessibility be known as Westside Anti- Grandstanding and Start major east-west access it needs to thrive. This Violence Effort (WAVE]). Delivering for Yonkers’] point in Yonkers. It is project also provides the These patrols need support The junior senator has part of a larger project necessary infrastructure for followup narcotics Latimer Advises Governor Expected to Sign Third-party Notification Bill Albany, NY -- and passed both legislative and assist the senior in in securing Senate passage. Assemblyman George houses earlier in 2010 by whatever may be required “Senator Diaz’ commitment Latimer’s bill to provide large margins. to maintain that policy in to helping senior citizens senior citizens with the The provisions allow force”. Latimer noted that was on display as he ability to designate third- for senior citizens who they may be some further shepherded the bill through party notification provisions hold health care insurance coverage clarification the State Senate. He on health care insurance policies to designate a third- required in the definition deserves full credit for the policies is before Governor party individual - a spouse, of what constitutes a health successful result which we Paterson, awaiting his adult child, friend, lawyer or insurance policy that may are anticipating with the signature into law. “We advisor - to receive notices be the subject of a chapter Governor’s signature”. The believe the Governor will from the insurance carrier amendment to the bill, bill will become effective 6 sign the bill into law today, with urgent information but that such modification months after the Governor or in the next day or two regarding the policy should not change the signs it, allowing time - and seniors will gain provisions usually only the change in a premium, likelihood of approval. “It for implementation by all an important protection”, mailed to the policyholder. possible termination of the is, ultimately, the authority insurance carriers, under Latimer stated. The “In some cases”, Latimer policy, and so forth. The of the Governor to act as he the review of the State legislation (A.217/S.5456) stated, “seniors may be expectation is that the third- sees fit”, the Assemblyman Department of Insurance. was sponsored in the unable to fully grasp the party individual notified concluded. Read Bill A00217 online. Senate by Senator Rev. importance of a mailed will be able to identify the Latimer also praised the Ruben Diaz Sr. (D-Bronx), notice, which might govern urgency of the message leadership of Senator Diaz Sound Shore Medical Center Celebrates National Laboratory Week New Rochelle, NY -- and a conference on and spoke about the Sound Shore Medical Sickle Cell Disease to a essential contribution Center (SSMC) recently Learning Breakfast on the laboratory makes. celebrated National Medical Tuberculosis, there was a Then he, along with the Laboratory Professionals full week of showcasing Director of Laboratories, Week with a number of the vital contribution the Dragoslava Zamurovic, activities. The slogan for medical laboratory makes MD, presented a Certificate this year’s observance was to healthcare. of Appreciation to Gloria “Laboratory Professionals A highlight of the week’s Rerrie Chang (pictured) for Get Results” and that is events was the service 50 years of service. More certainly the hallmark of the recognition ceremony. than 30 years of her service highly-regarded laboratory John R. Spicer, president was spent working as a professionals at SSMC. and CEO of Sound Shore medical technologist in the From staff recognition Medical Center attended see Sound Shore Pg. 13 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 13 Sound Shore Medical Center Celebrates National Laboratory Week From Page 1 SSMC main laboratory. drives. The invaluable – for the exclusive use The Laboratory work of the laboratory of SSMC patients - or to Department at Sound staff helps guide decision schedule a Blood Drive, Shore Medical Center is making at all levels of contact SSMC’s Blood certified by the New York healthcare. They confirm Donor Coordinator at State Department of Health illness, identify at-risk 914.365.3664, today! (NYSDOH) as well as the conditions and monitor the For physician FDA. It is also accredited status of chronic diseases. referrals, call MDs-LINE by the College of American For more information (914.637.5463) or visit Pathologists and is one about Sound Shore Medical www.ssmc.org to discover of only two hospital Center’s laboratory more about Sound Shore laboratories in Westchester services, contact Alan Jones, Medical Center’s award County designated by the Manager at 914.365.4635. winning services and NYSDOH to conduct blood To make a blood donation Centers of Excellence.

Shopping with My Mother – Then and Now egomaniac nor a control forehead of Zeus), but she pants suits, go-go boots self-image surprised and freak. She just knows this. likes to hasten the process and mini-skirts.) puzzled her (and continues Disappointingly for my along a bit whenever she So there was my mother, to do so to this day). mother, so far neither my sees the opportunity. She a woman firmly committed As I said, the pattern sister nor I have turned has always found clothes to the proposition of of behavior between us out much like r e d r a f t i n g shopping together today her, nor have her offspring is eerily reminiscent of we given any into her own scenes played out between indication that stylish image, us four decades ago. The we ever will. attacking the ritual begins with my By Alisa Singer For my part, I mall with mother shoving several share with her her two girls colorful, trendy pieces into Shopping with my mother only frizzy hair reluctantly in my hands: “Try these”, is, surprisingly, much the and an intense, tow. These she says, then adding as same experience for me n e r v o u s s e a s o n a l though to seal the deal, now, in middle-age, as energy; my e s c a p a d e s “all the girls are wearing it was for me in middle- sister appears to ( f a l l / w i n t e r them”. This last familiar school. There are several have inherited and spring/ phrase inevitably touches reasons for this but they none of her s u m m e r ) several “hot buttons” at all flow from my mother’s traits. Still my p a i n f u l l y once, sending me (I’m unshakeable belief that, mother persists h i g h l i g h t e d ashamed to admit) reeling as God made Adam in his in her belief, the vast gulf back to 7th grade, seething own image, so each of her wearing her between my with the spirit of adolescent daughters will eventually faith boldly as m o t h e r ’ s rebellion. At these times I emerge as more-or-less a shield against dreams for am irritated by at least the duplicate copies of herself. any form of her daughters following three things: She appears to reject the criticism from and the reality first, by the implication concept of the separate and her daughters of the paltry that I haven’t yet evolved unique DNA of her progeny, on any matter. “Hah! shopping expeditions to raw material she had to beyond the need to dress perhaps subconsciously Just wait,” she warns, be auspicious occasions work with. I represented myself according to certain believing that we were “someday you’ll do the to further this agenda. (I a particularly arduous rules promulgated by conceived with a full set of same thing.” (That day, of should mention that my challenge due to my unknown fashion mavens her chromosomes through course, being the day when mother had been in her day morbid dread of drawing (I haven’t); second, by mitosis or other mysterious we finally actually become a “beauty”, in fact an actual attention to myself through her refusal to notice that form of cell division. From our mother.) beauty queen, winner of my appearance. In other adult (okay, middle-aged) her perspective it’s a simple If pressed, my “The Girl I’d Most Like to words, I feared the result women are not “girls” and, matter of peeling away all mother would probably Spend Christmas Vacation which is the very essence a corollary to that, what those layers of mistaken acknowledge that this With” and other sundry and purpose of fashion. would be appealing on identity we call “ourselves” evolution will not occur titles. And she thrived Viewing me as simply a a 12-year old girl would to reveal the true person suddenly (we are unlikely on being recognized and younger, unformed version likely be appalling on a underneath – that being to emerge one day as full- noticed for being “fashion of herself, the idea that 50-something year old “her”. Understand that formed images of her, like forward” - the first in the I did not appear to share my mother is neither an Athena springing from the neighborhood to wear her views of fashion or see Shopping Pg. 14 14 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010

Shopping with My Mother – Then and Now From Page 1 “girl”; and, finally, by any rack: ”Mom, I was too old the price, even if it ‘s likely I face the most exacting myself seems to say as unsolicited advice my for that look 20 years ago”, to never leave my closet. of judges – my teenage she stares back at me with mother offers regarding my churlish, whiny tone Every so often it turns daughter. She looks up a triumphant gleam in her how I should dress or contrasting ironically with out that the item my from her laptop, appraising eyes, “and it’s about time.” handle any other aspect my words. But when I have mother selected for me is me with narrowed eyes and Alisa Singer’s humorous of my life. (I did say myself under better control actually kind of perfect, studied skill. “Cute”, she essays have appeared adolescent rebellion, didn’t I will at least pretend to like the iridescent gold pronounces finally, then in print and online I?) seriously consider the item bomber jacket that proves pauses, “but, I don’t know, newspapers and The typical next steps in an effort to humor her. to be just the thing to wear not exactly … you.” magazines. You can learn in this traditional mother- And once in a while I might over jeans for a Saturday I head to my bedroom more about her work daughter dance vary even buy the thing. (She evening dinner and movie. to take a final look in the by visiting her website: depending on my reserves does, after all, have a good Shimmering in a metallic mirror. Peering back is, www.AlisaSinger.com of patience and good will eye for color and design.) glow I float into the living of course, me but also or contacting her at at the moment. Some days, On those occasions my room, buoyed by the a hint of someone else, ASingerAuthor@gmail. I confess, I simply thrust mother beams with pleasure hope that I might possibly someone quite familiar. “I com. the items back onto the and I feel the piece is worth look, sort of, cool. There told you so,” my mother/ Attorney General Cuomo Announces Over $100,000 in Restitution from New Rochelle’s JM Hyundai New York, NY -- Attorney Additionally, Cuomo’s been used as rental vehicles, and integrity, not fraud General Andrew M. Cuomo office reached an agreement which is a violation of and deception, from these today announced that his with a now-closed New York State Vehicle dealerships,” said Attorney office is distributing more Centereach dealership that and Traffic Law. JM General Cuomo. than $100,000 in restitution failed to refund thousands Hyundai paid $90,246.40 The J.M. Hyundai to customers of two auto of dollars in deposits for in restitution. The checks was handled by Assistant dealerships in the Hudson vehicles that were never were sent to customers Attorney General Nicholas Valley and Long Island that ultimately sold. April 23. Additionally, the Garin under the supervision misrepresented used cars The first agreement with JM Hyundai dealership of Assistant Attorney for sale. The dealerships, Attorney General Cuomo’s paid $22,500 in penalties General-in Charge of the without telling customers, Office calls for JM Hyundai and costs to the state. Poughkeepsie Regional sold cars that had been in New Rochelle to refund “Buying a car is a major Office Vincent Bradley. used principally as rental 10 percent of the purchase unknowingly purchased purchase and consumers vehicles. price to 75 customers who cars that had previously should expect honesty WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 15 Yonkers Taxpayers Foot the Political Payoff Bill By Hezi Aris Ferro Enterprises NY LLC reads: and neighborhood eyesore “ purely political payoff” (owner) to obtain approval “Residents in southeast at the …” but could not stop the Yonkers, NY -- The City of for a change in tenancy / Yonkers will soon be Mr Ferrovecchio deal being consummated. Yonkers has chosen to rent use from retail/warehouse getting more of two eventually changed the City Hall was advised by property for the benefit of / auto glass, to office space commodities craved by name of the property from every conceivable planner the municipal government (City of Yonkers use), in every neighborhood in the Ferro Enterprises NY LLC under its employ that to the tune of $2.5 million accordance with ZBA Case city: police presence and to 1106 Yonkers Ave LLC. rather that choosing rental per annum so far. City # 4538, Condition #12, on parking. The property houses the property, Yonkers should Hall has allotted $650,000 premises known as 1106 “Under a plan announced ESU (Emergency Service use city owned property in rental property for the Yonkers Avenue, Block: today by Mayor Phil Unit) on the premises at exclusively. claimed “benefit” of the 6301 Lot: 19, Zone: “BA”. Amicone, the Yonkers the cost of $28,000 every Instead, Yonkers is Yonkers Police Department, Typical to this day, Police Department would month. spending $2.5 million in of which $336,000 is Yonkers City Hall issued move its Emergency ESU had no difficulty rental / leasing fees for the spent on the property at a Press release through Services Unit (ESU) into managing its fleet of benefit of various municipal 1106 Yonkers Avenue. US Fed News Service a vacant office building vehicles or any of the operations. After a little digging into on October 25, 2007, at 1106 Yonkers Avenue, responsibilities before Should acid-tongued archives barely 3 year old entitled, “MAYOR creating an additional moving to these premises. bloggers know of similar the “Family and Friends AMICONE PROPOSES sustained police presence Considering so many city transaction in which Network” is recognized at EAST YONKERS along one of the city’s owned properties were members of the “Friends work. POLICE FACILITY major east-west traffic available for use at no and Family Network”, or It began before the & COMMUNITY corridors. cost, the only reason City the “Pay to Play” crowd, Yonkers Zoning Board of PARKING.” The Press “In a related proposal, Hall pushed for the zoning please let Yonkers Tribune Appeals on November 20, Release was divulged three Mayor Amicone wants to change was to take care / Westchester Herald know. 2007 when Robert I. Eber, weeks prior to the property provide additional parking of a “Family and Friends Perhaps Yonkers Inspector Esq. presented himself obtaining approval from the for area residents and Network” member. General Dan Schorr will be on behalf of Dominic Yonkers Board of Appeals. businesses by turning a Sources have advised that enticed to scrutinize such Ferrovecchio, who owned Even so, the Press Release long abandoned gas station they were familiar with the transactions more closely.

Letters to the Editor From Page 14 Taxing a Non-Existent determined that no thought-out attempt will Admission Fee to Empire admission fee would be benefit the attorneys, not City charged. This decision the taxpayers. mirrors the policy of every We believe that the other gaming facility in the Angelo R. Martinelli City’s attempt to collect Country. The development Kevin T. Cacace revenue from a non- moved forward on that basis Yonkers Chamber of existent admission fee at with the full knowledge of Commerce Empire City is a poor idea. all the interested parties, This action will assuredly including the City of Angelo R. Martinelli is the lead to an extended and Yonkers. Chairman of the Board, expensive court battle Empire City is a great and Kevin T. Cacace is the between the City and its asset to our community. In President of the Yonkers largest revenue producer the past three years they Chamber of Commerce and will ultimately waste have provided the Yonkers taxpayers money. Public Schools with $60 It is apparent that the law million in direct aid over the City is citing enabling and above the State’s Legal it to collect admission education contribution. taxes was superseded by The City also collects Notices the State in 1999. It would significant property taxes, stand to reason that if the sales taxes and payroll taxes Legal notices for publication ADVERTISE City thought it was entitled from this establishment. in the to this revenue, it would Additionally, Empire City Westchester Herald have billed for it much has created 800 permanent are accepted for publication earlier than now. jobs in our City. no later than Thursday 914-562-0834 for the following Prior to the opening of We fully recognize week’s edition. Empire City all parties, that the City faces an [email protected] the State, the City and enormously challenging WHYTLegal @gmail.com the ownership of Yonkers fiscal deficit. We caution Raceway collectively however that the City’s ill 16 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Ed Koch Movie Reviews were pedestrian junk. that no car be permitted to I asked Richard roll out of the holding area Ravitch, the MTA Chairman if it was marred by graffiti. at the time, to protect the The cars were wiped clean cars in the layover yards daily, and the graffiti artists where the graffiti was went on to other targets primarily created. My when they no longer saw suggestion was to erect their works and their tags By Edward I. Koch fences and have guard dogs on subway cars. protect the areas. He was Now back to the “Exit Through the Gift horrified and said, “The movie. Shop” (+) dogs will bite people.” I In the 1990s a French responded, “That’s what videographer living in LA, Although The New they’re intended to do.” I Thierry Guetta, obsessively York Times gave this film then said, “If you’re afraid took videos of people and a superb review, I initially they will bite, use wolves. their surroundings. He decided not to see it. It is No non-rabid wolf in prevailed on the street a docudrama about graffiti North America has ever artists to allow him to which I had my fill of when attacked a human being.” accompany them and taped I was mayor. A Times reporter writing them while they added In the 1980s graffiti was on the subject said, “True their graffiti to buildings. primarily found on subway of wolves in the wild but The artists had names like cars, and it frightened not true of domesticated Space Invader and Banksy. the hell out of people. It wolves.” I replied, “I The face of the famous gave the impression that was only referring to English artist Banksy is government had lost control wild wolves. When they never seen and his real of the environment and become domesticated, identity is never revealed, that people could engage replace them.” although it appears that he in anti-social and criminal Ultimately the made the movie. acts with impunity. Some subway cars were cleaned Thierry himself began who urged me to see this of the modern art world, admired the graffiti calling up by a new team led by to create graffiti and took picture. The monologues whose phoniness exceeds it street art. In truth, a MTA Chairman Robert the appropriate alias of are hilarious and the music anything Holden Caulfield number of the drawings Kiley and MTA President “MBW” (Mr. Brainwash). fantastic. Think of me as ever described. The title were amazing but most David Gunn who insisted Mr. Brainwash became your friend and see this excoriates the rampant a millionaire selling his movie. You will have an commercialism which paintings which were unusual and delightful degraded the purity of the knockoffs of original experience. original street artists, some works like those of Henry Stern said: of whom are really talented. Andy Warhol and others. “I am probably prejudiced The physical aspect of Another featured artist is about this movie because installing the art reminded Shepard Fairey who took as Parks Commissioner me of skateboarding. On an AP photo of presidential for fifteen years under balance, the picture was candidate Barack Obama Mayors Koch and Giuliani, moderately interesting, and with amazing color we fought graffiti which and made you wonder turned it into the iconic defaced the natural beauty what really happened in “Hope” poster of President of parks. ‘Street art’ Los Angeles, London and Obama. Fairey is now consists of stencils and Paris.” locked in a copyright signs posted on OPP – lawsuit with the owner of other people’s property The Honorable Edward the original photo. – in this case, public land Irving Koch served New I’m delighted that and buildings. The movie York City as its 105th I listened to a friend was an enormous putdown Mayor from 1978 to 1989. ADVERTISE Call 914-562-0834 or email us at [email protected] WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 17 18 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010

New York Civic: Baying at the Moon petitioners. The aide would the letter ‘B’ is available to most effective way to secure than the state’s, but it will listen to us, and promise you on request. Hint: The change. In order to support require further reductions that he would convey our two lines rhyme. E-mail nonpartisan redistricting, when the mayor presents his message to his employer. us and we will enlighten legislators must believe that budget to the Council. The youths were always you. Second hint: I learned it is in their own political THE BRONX. NO polite, and never argued the rule from the Abscam interest, and that whatever THONX. – Ogden Nash with us, but it was clear to hearings. damage might be done by (not Avenue), (1902-71) all but the most naïve that There is an old saying, a district more fairly drawn Meanwhile, the political we were not being taken “Fool me once, it’s your is less than the damage pressure on City Hall By Henry J. Stern seriously. fault; fool me twice, it’s my that might be done to their appears to be primarily from On occasions, legislators fault.” The saying loosely prospects of election by the the left. The City Council The recurring theme in would promise to support applies to conventional exposure of their refusal almost unanimously rejected many of these columns in our reforms. Of course, attempts at reform. The to consent to independent a development plan for the recent months has been these commitments were public officials we see are districting. Kingsbridge Armory, in the weakness of state contingent on the reforms generally sympathetic; That requires people of which a private developer government, particularly being brought up for a vote those openly hostile do not stature and influence to unite was willing to sink over in the legislature. Without on the floor of the legislature, meet with us, nor do we in favor of independent $300 million in creating a revisiting the muck of an event which almost seek them out. They usually nonpartisan redistricting, a shopping mall, because the corruption, favoritism and never took place. The more say they will do what they subject which has often been retail employees would not self-dealing (and the mire important the official we can, and many of them viewed as a technical issue, be paid as much as the unions of fiscal irresponsibility), saw, the less believable he in fact do what they can. a diversion for mapmakers, wanted. The construction we turn our attention to turned out to be. Unfortunately, what they can and a device to protect unions wanted the projects what can be done about the At the end of the day, do is generally not much, neighborhoods whose approved, because it situation. we returned to our buses unless they have the consent population is changing, meant thousands of jobs The decent and honorable and rode back to the city. of the legislative leaders. ethnically or economically. for their members, but the organizations devoted to The legislature was safe for The leaders do not approve The leaders we need are department store union good government--Brennan another year. any measures which might people whose interests go opposed it. The opposition Center for Justice, Citizens At some point early in the have an adverse impact on beyond particular districts was shortsighted, because Union, Common Cause, the annual ritual, it became clear their privileges or on their or a single criterion. They the mall would take years League of Women Voters to me that the legislature had leverage over others, which are people who simply want to build, and no one knows and the New York Public no serious prospect of doing is understandable from the a level playing field. That for sure what the economic Interest Research Group anything much that we point of view of maintaining tired cliche sums it up. It is situation will be then or and the Women’s City recommended. Although the levers of political power a fairness issue. And, when how many people will be Club--have been struggling there were good people and influence. they understand the issue, employed in retail stores. for years to reform state there who did support Essentially, reformers people basically want fair The rejection may help government. In recent our relatively innocuous ask politicians to yield competition, not a stacked protect existing department years, they have traveled to proposals, there was little some of their authority deck or a fixed fight. What stores from competition. It Albany each spring to meet likelihood of any reforms for what we perceive as is notable in 2010 is that is a serious blow, however, with legislators. On several reaching the floor, much the greater public good, people who are now out of to economic development occasions, New York Civic less being adopted. There the freer dissemination of politics, having held high and the north Bronx, and is has taken the bus trip. was simply no incentive for ideas, and the right to make office, feel the necessity to likely to discourage other Other reformers came from the legislature to change its decisions based on one’s involve themselves in public proposals to build stores and different parts of the state. ways, because its old ways own judgment of the merits, issues. create jobs. The Bronx is We would hear speakers in served the interests of the rather than others. Those in Part of the reason for the poorest borough of the the Egg, hold a small rally leadership. power often see their own this is the sad state into five, and the most in need on the lawn, and split up The Senate and interests as synonymous with which New York State has of relatively unskilled jobs. to go to appointments with the Assembly proved the public welfare, or in the sunk due to the ineptitude Its anti-business leadership legislators who would see themselves to be quite alternative believe that their of its executive branch and is unlikely to encourage us. responsive, however, to own leadership is essential the irresponsibility of its economically feasible Some of these other petitioners. Lobbyists, to the maintenance of order legislature. development, and there is conversations were union leaders, business in government. They are Civic leaders realize, no other kind. interesting. I recall meeting corporations, and campaign not generally willing to just as they did in Fiscal Assemblyman Richard contributors were able to yield anything to anyone Crisis 1 in 1974-75, and Brodsky in his office and communicate directly with without being compelled to Fiscal Crisis 2 in 1990-91, he talked substance. Others elected officials, rather than do so. The very qualities that wider participation is Henry J. Stern writes as were superficial: the visits being fobbed off on aides, that earned them a position necessary to help the city StarQuest. Direct email to were more like courtesy as we were. The Albany of leadership are dedicated and state in their financial him at StarQuest@NYCivic. calls. In many cases, the universe was guided by a to maintaining that position difficulties. The city is org. Peruse Mr. Stern’s legislator did not meet with simple rule: 23-B. The first against any rivals or any well managed, certainty writing at New York Civic. us at all because he was line of the rule is ‘Money proposal which would compared with the state, but enormously busy dealing Talks’, The second line, circumscribe their authority it too faces a substantial gap with public issues, but left which brings the total rule over others. between anticipated receipts that task to a staff member, to 23 letters in length, with What this leads to is and expenditures. The city’s usually younger than the the key word starting with that external pressure is the gap for 2011 is much smaller WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 19 Obama Sends in the Clowns wouldn’t be prudent.” some despondent Obama liberal media’s go-to smear you’re on official notice: According to the latest supporters then devised merchant. Perhaps more Continue to cite the activist Pew poll, America’s a strategy to “crash the than any other group, the “analysis” of this discredited trust in today’s godless Tea Parties.” Throngs SPLC has overplayed its gang of kneecappers at Obama-Pelosi-Reid federal of constitutionally hand in vilifying opponents your own peril. You risk government is at an all challenged, Berkeley- of Uncle Sam’s extreme losing completely, your time low of 22 percent, esque short-bussers (you makeover. own already vanishing little more than a year after shall know them by their SPLC director Mark credibility. By J. Matt Barber Obama took office. patchouli covered bong Potok, for instance, I’m sure they’ll get right Plan B: Demonize pong) infiltrated many of compared Tea Partiers on that. With a potential political Dissent the conspicuously peaceful to “domestic terrorists,” In the meantime, bloodbath looming in Mahatma Gandhi once “Tax Day Tea Parties” with saying they’re “...shot what these panicked November, liberals are said: “First they ignore racist and misspelled signs, through with rich veins of “progressive” pixies fail understandably desperate. you, then they ridicule screaming bigoted and radical ideas, conspiracy to understand, is that the They see it all slipping you, then they fight you, inane slogans in an effort to theories and racism,” and more they malign the away and it shows. The then you win.” His words paint Tea Partiers in a bad are widely linked to “hate” ever-growing millions of grassroots groundswell of are eerily applicable to light. and “vigilante groups.” red-blooded, God-fearing opposition to Obama’s neo- the elitist acrimony we see Again, the strategy Filed under “absurd acts of Americans who feel Marxist, secular-humanist in response to the rapid backfired with hilarious transparent desperation” – compelled to push back agenda intensifies daily resurgence of America’s results as these boorish the SPLC recently lumped- against Obama’s weighty despite the left’s best efforts traditionalist zeitgeist. boobs outed themselves in with the KKK, neo-Nazis radicalism – the more they to silence dissent. After months of by posting their intentions and “potentially violent” humiliate and embarrass Commensurate with ignoring the burgeoning on the internet in advance militia groups, a list of 40 themselves. plummeting poll numbers constitutionalist movement of operations. Legitimate high profile conservatives The more the left attempts and evaporating public and dismissing it as Tea Partiers were ready for – to include three sitting to marginalize our nation’s trust, Democrats, media “Astroturf,” the left hit the these “decaf” counterfeits, U.S. representatives – who center-right mainstream elites and the usual gaggle panic button. Jig was up. peacefully surrounding are apparently facilitating with disingenuous charges of left-wing pressure It had become painfully them when they showed sedition (a federal offense). of “racism,” “homophobia” groups have ramped- apparent to all that this up and calling them out in Among the treasonous and “potential violence” up the unhinged “right- measured, monotone young comical fashion. “enablers” of the – the more it marginalizes wing-extremist” twaddle president who carried with Conservatives are “antigovernment patriot itself. to historically hysterical him such high hopes for Domestic Terrorists movement” (read: Tea Still, I say marginalize levels. For those who so many was, in fact, the Others have taken to the Partiers and pro-life/pro- away. Political self- delight in watching the radical leftist ideologue gutter deeper still. Most family Americans) are neutering may just be these self-styled “progressive” those Limbaugh-Hannity- recently it was Bill Clinton Rep. Michelle Bachman frowny clowns’ one true movement implode, it’s Beck-types had warned of. with his lip-bitingly (R-Minn); Rep. Ron Paul act of patriotism. priceless. And so, the mainstream ominous warning that (R-Tex); Rep. Paul Broun “How can it be?” they media hit back, latching Tea Party conservatives (R-Ga); Glenn Beck (Fox ask. “The stars were like pit-bulls to a poodle and talk radio will cause News host); Judge Andrew aligned.” With Barack on iffy reports that Tea another Oklahoma City. Napolitano (Fox News legal Matt Barber is an Obama in the White House Partiers had shouted Senator Jim Inhofe analyst); and Joseph Farah attorney concentrating in and his egalitarian enablers racist and “homophobic” (R-Okla) issued a scathing (Editor of WorldNetDaily. constitutional law. He is running Congress, liberals slurs at black members of statement, calling Clinton’s com). author of the book “The found themselves at ship’s Congress and, well, Barney remarks “unconscionable,” Seriously, guys? The Right Hook – From the helm on the USS Hopey- Frank (claims which, as it and chided the former SPLC would save us Ring to the Culture War” Changey, sailing unabated turns out, were apparently president: “This is an all time and energy if and serves as Director toward the perfect storm fabricated whole cloth). over-the-top effort to it simply released a list of Cultural Affairs with of Euro-socialist reform. Conservative pundit try to stop a movement of conservative pundits, Liberty Counsel. America’s elite class Andrew Breitbart offered of people who aren’t politicos and organizations would, at long last – curse $100,000 reward to anyone amenable to supporting that are not on its official these two-plus centuries able to provide video Obama programs, like cap “right-wing watch list.” of “constitutional” or audio of the alleged and trade, government-run Perhaps the one charge government – be as slurs. Despite scores of health care and closing SPLC nailed is that America those erudite Europeans television cameras in the Gitmo.” is currently experiencing a our homespun lefties so immediate vicinity, no one And then there’s “far-right resurgence” (read: pitifully parrot. has produced a shred of the Alabama Alinskys. conservative comeback). Oops… something evidence. The Southern Poverty The good news is that happened on the way to Capitalizing on Law Center, a hard-left such dishonest smears are the Communism. Middle the media’s deliberate Montgomery-based outfit causing the SPLC – already America, channeling Dana mischaracterization of that claims to “monitor hemorrhaging credibility – Carvey’s Bush-one, said: Tea Party conservatives as hate groups and racial to just bleed-on-out. “Nope, not gonna’ do it… racist, inbred seditionists, extremists,” remains the Mainstream media, 20 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Ed Koch Commentary Wall Street Knows No Shame Fitch, drew renewed lost because of shorts.’” prosecute and deport no job opportunities are criticism on Friday on The Wall Street Journal illegal immigrants.” I am available, will go back to Capitol Hill for failing to of April 20th describes the opposed to the proposal of their countries of origin. warn of the dangers posed transaction as follows: “The President Obama, former I feel sorry for Senator by complex investments SEC alleges that in a 2007 President George W. Bush John McCain who has like the one that has drawn deal, Goldman deceived and Senator John McCain established himself as Goldman Sachs into a legal clients by selling mortgage which will provide illegal a decent, thoughtful whirlwind. But while the securities secretly designed aliens amnesty and a path to American leader. The By Edward I. Koch agencies have come under by hedge fund king John citizenship. However, the Times reports on April fire before, the extent to Paulson to profit on a newly-enacted Arizona law 24th, “Mr. McCain, which they collaborated plunge in housing prices.” locked in a primary with The current effort to is an outrage that should be with Wall Street banks has I doubt there is a way that a challenger campaigning control Wall Street with overruled by the Congress drawn less notice.” would meet constitutional on immigration, only appropriate regulations which should preempt the Wall Street knows no safeguards to prevent the came out in support of the will reduce the likelihood entire area of legislation shame. When Judgment enormous differential law hours before the state of that industry again respecting the identifying Day comes, will any of these between the incomes senate passed it Monday ripping off and beggaring and arresting of illegal “masters of the universe” of average American afternoon.” Senator American investors. It will immigrants, so as to stop be able to pass through workers and those at the McCain is a bona fide hero help prevent unscrupulous the Arizona monstrosity. I the eye of a needle? Both top of their professions of the Vietnam War where brokers from again bringing have compared the Arizona Democrats and Republicans in commerce, sports, arts he withstood the physical the United States to the law with the efforts of have contributed to the and theater. Maybe there cruelties of his North precipice of financial chaos Nazis engaged in Jew loss in faith that the shouldn’t be any limits, Vietnamese captors and and ruin. New regulations catching, stopping people average American has in and recoup with additional upheld the finest traditions will more likely succeed if on the streets of Berlin and government at every level. income tax brackets for of the United States Navy the government employs elsewhere in Nazi Germany I have to apologize for multi-millionaires and while imprisoned in the the talent of some former demanding identification, a possible inaccuracy that billionaires. I for one “Hanoi Hilton.” Yet, in Wall Street robber baron and if not produced, appeared in my commentary support the “flatter tax” fear of losing a primary who has gotten religion and arresting, imprisoning and, of April 19th. I reported which would tax both election, he succumbed to who now wants to atone for in the case of Jews, sending on the SEC’s civil lawsuit earned and unearned the pressure of the heated past misdeeds by pointing them to death camps where against Goldman Sachs. income, the latter being primary and his opponent’s out what needs to be done they were murdered. In error, I stated the firm excluded under the flat tax attacks. He will regret it to prevent future excesses. Of course, government made a billion dollars on proposed by Steve Forbes. after the election is over, I don’t trust Senator can and should ask the transaction. The firm My flatter tax proposal whether he wins or loses. Chris Dodd to protect the employers and employees says it did not and alleges would also have different Integrity is more important American public. The at the workplace if they that in fact, it lost $90 tax rates, depending on than winning, and often its Republicans say his bill to are legal immigrants or million. The New York income. I have no doubt very presence is responsible regulate Wall Street to a citizens, entitled to work Times of April 25th reports, that millions of Americans for winning. greater degree, and include or illegal immigrants, “The messages, released resent the obscenity of the non-regulated derivatives not allowed to work and Saturday by the Senate highs and the sadness of The Honorable Edward and hedge funds, does not doing so in violation of Permanent Subcommittee the income lows. If this be Irving Koch served New go far enough, But few the law. If employers were on Investigations, appear puerile populism, make the York City as its 105th people, and I am not one of pursued criminally when to contradict statements most of it. Mayor from 1978 to them, trust the Republicans, they intentionally violate by Goldman that left the The best discussion 1989. particularly on this issue. the law and hire illegal impression that the firm concerning Wall Street Is there a Joe Kennedy out immigrants, the latter when lost money on mortgage- and its recent abuses can there, father of Jack, Bobby related investments. In be found in a transcript of and Ted who was himself a the messages, Lloyd C. the Bill Moyers’ Journal major robber baron (read Blankfein, the bank’s chief dated April 23rd, when that as the master of Wall executive, acknowledged Moyers interviews William Street rip-offs), who will in November 2007 that K. Black, now teaching step forward and offer his/ Advertise the firm had lost money economics and law at the her expertise to cover the initially. But it later University of Missouri- waterfront and protect the recovered by making Kansas City, who wrote the American public from negative bets, known as book, “The Best Way to Rob future excesses? short positions, to profit as A Bank Is To own One.” The rating agencies housing prices plummeted. ••••• failed us. The New York ‘Of course we didn’t dodge The New York Times Times of April 24th the mortgage mess,’ he reports that Arizona’s reported, “The major credit 914-562-0834 wrote. ‘We lost money, governor, Jan Brewer, rating agencies, Moody’s, [email protected] then made more than we signed a bill into law Standard & Poors, and intended to “identify, WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 21 Orange County Executive Ed Diana’s Response to the Cuomo-Spitzer Feud Goshen, NY -- Orange is the son of a successful, “Eliot Spitzer and Andrew County Executive Ed influential man. They both Cuomo are exactly the Diana issues the following suffered political defeat. same. In fact, what Eliot statement regarding the They both calculated that if Spitzer does not like about attack by Eliot Spitzer on they became the Attorney Andrew Cuomo is what he Andrew Cuomo: General they could use sees in the mirror. Both of “It’s outrageous that and abuse that office for them should do the people Eliot Spitzer – a man political gain. They both of New York a favor and synonymous with disgrace used their office to go leave the public arena.” and corruption should after their enemies and lecture Andrew Cuomo or raise money. They both Edward A. Diana is the anyone about inappropriate used their office as a bully Orange County (New York) behavior. That having been pulpit of intimidation. Executive, elected on the said, what Eliot Spitzer said Just this morning, Andrew Republican, Independence is exactly right. Andrew Cuomo was made fun of comment on the Goldman issuing press releases on and Cuomo, like Eliot Spitzer, on CNBC for refusing to Sachs investigation while nonsensical issues. Conservative Party lines. Janet Langsam: Woman of the Year

(L-R): Camille Odierna of Larchmont, chairperson of the event; Barbara Bianco of Rye, the outgoing president.; and Janet Langsam of Armonk, the recipient of this year’s award.

Rye, NY -- On Thursday serves many constituencies: April 22, 2010 the residents who live or work Westchester County in the county, major and Federation of Women’s small arts organizations as Clubs presented their well as small community- annual “Woman of the Year based arts groups, schools “award to Janet Langsam, and artists. executive director of the This year’s event was Westchester Arts Council. held on the water in Rye Ms. Langsam has held this at the Davenport Club. position for almost twenty The chairman for this years and during her tenure gala was Camille Odierna was instrumental in the of Larchmont. After a purchase of a facility to be delightful luncheon, the used as a permanent home new Federation Officers for the Arts Council. As were introduced by Barbara director she raises $3.5 Bianco of Rye, the outgoing million dollars annually President. Assuming and supervises a staff of eighteen. The council see Janet Langsam Pg. 22 22 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 Janet Bock To The Future Langsam: Too Much Salt, Is This The Best We Can Do? second. You might not be getting more and more (not to be confused with employee vacation and sick From Page 21 able to tell, but I’m being nuclear weaponry. And, motorcycling helmets); time? How about doing the responsibilities of facetious here. Not only do I’m not even talking about instead of worrying about away with the unfunded President for the next two I think this salt intake issue how the panty-bomber was whether or not a hair- mandates that are crippling years is Anita Taddeo has gotten out of hand, the able to get on an airplane stylist trims my beard (it is our villages, towns and of Pleasantville. Other media is covering it like and then failed, thankfully, actually against the law), cities? How about a NY newly installed officers a plane crash of school to blow it up, only burning how about focusing on State Constitutional are: Eleanor Colicchio children going to help aids his groin. While I cringe some real issues that might amendment to ensure a of Pelham as 2nd Vice victims. Not only is this not even thinking about that, not get a TV camera to balanced, on-time budget President, Bernice a big deal, who cares how how embarrassing will that focus on you. before taxes can be raised? Schweinfest of Pleasantville much salt I eat? Sure, you be for him when he gets to How about securing If these questions make as Corresponding Secretary, can argue that salt is not prison? our borders? How about sense to you, I ask you to and four new Directors, good for you in general The second issue then, eliminating wasteful social vote for me this November Maureen Lambert of and that too much salt is is how much protection programs and reducing for New York State Scarsdale, Eileen Fidele of unhealthy. So? Smoking should our government my taxes and focusing Assembly - 92nd District. Peekskill/Cortlandt, Hope is no good for you but the render and to what extent? on performance of basic The seat is currently held Sutherland of Dobbs Ferry, government doesn’t tell At the state and local levels I services and a diminution by Richard Brodsky. He’s and Roberta Bennett of you how many cigarettes believe government should of the less essential been there so long, I can’t Dobbs Ferry. to smoke. Although, I am make sure we are safe and services? How about a even tell you who was there The Westchester County more than a little fearful reasonably protected in our tax moratorium on new before him! It’s time for a Federation of Women’s that that might be next. neighborhoods and homes. businesses and businesses change and to clean house. Clubs is comprised of The first issue I have with So when government moving to NY State? It’s time to take back New twenty five clubs and the government’s role is that officials, unable to pass new How about simply making York from the politicians is almost 3,000 women government is supposed to laws because we already NY State more business and special interests and strong. Their charge is to protect its citizens. That’s have more than enough, friendly? How about giving give it back to the people! make their communities the primary responsibility begin to harp on superfluous tangible financial breaks Help me to make the better places to live and of government. I always things like my salt intake, and incentives to people Empire State great again! work through their many believed that meant on I get mad! Instead of who volunteer their time philanthropic projects. If a federal level to keep worrying about displaying to help others and their Thomas Bock is the you would like to become America from being calories on menus for communities? How about candidate for the New a part of this movement attacked from our enemies. overweight people in fast term limits? How about York State 92nd Assembly begun in Westchester in the To that end, I disagree food restaurants, where a ceiling on how much a District. For further early 1920’s, consult your with the President’s they shouldn’t be anyway; state employee can make in information direct email phone directory for a club nuclear disarmament plan, instead of worrying if their position in overtime? to ElectTomBock@gmail. located in your area. especially with the ever- I am wearing a bicycle How about a use it or lose com. growing list of crackpots helmet when cycling policy with regards to state Paladino: “New York’s US Senators Schumer and Gillibrand are Selling State Down the River” Buffalo, NY -- Carl services reform,” Paladino significant revenue from supporters to call Senator Paladino, candidate for said. “Worse, New York’s the financial industry and Chuck Schumer (1-202- Governor of New York Senators - Chuck Schumer its employees, will be 224-6542) and Senator State, today demanded and Kirsten Gillibrand - are forever poorer as a result.” Kirsten Gillibrand (1-202- that New York’s United standing silently by and “Obama and his Chicago 224-4451) and demand States Senators stand up to selling the City and our buddies are engineering the the New York legislators President Barack Obama’s State down the river.” largest transfer of wealth stand up for their State plan to shift thousands of Most of the transactions from one city to another instead of bowing to the jobs from New York City to the Obama administration moved from New York City in world history,” Paladino manipulations of Obama’s his hometown of Chicago proposed to regulate last to Chicago. said. “That may be the Chicago-focused White - along with billions of week are currently processed “If Schumer and Chicago Way, but it isn’t House. dollars of tax revenue. through New York-based Gillibrand don’t speak the American Way - and Carl Paladino is “President Obama banks or financial firms up, many New York City our Senators must stand seeking the Republican is trying to force the with significant trading financial institutions will up for New York taxpayers and Conservative party relocation of the world operations in New York be forced to move more immediately or suffer the nominations for new York financial capital from New City. Under Obama’s operations to Chicago,” consequences on Election state Governor. Visit http:// York City to Chicago, all Financial Services Reform, Paladino said. “New Day.” PaladinoforthePeople.com under the guise of financial this business will be forever York State, which gains Paladino is asking his for more information. WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010 23 Yonkers Mayor to Senators Gillibrand and Stewart-Cousins: ‘Stop Election Year Grandstanding and Start Delivering for Yonkers’ Yonkers, NY -- Yonkers over the weekend was an Yonkers. Sen. Gillibrand wants to be helpful and Mayor Phil Amicone absolute joke. Not only is the only member of do something about gang is calling out U.S. Sen. was it blatant election year Congress not to meet violence and drugs, she’ll Kirtsen Gillibrand and politics, it was an overt with Amicone, either in go back to Albany and get New York State Sen. attempt to mislead the Washington or in Yonkers. to work on a budget that Andrea Stewart- Cousins people of Yonkers away “Even worse, the fact provides adequate public for staging an election year from their collective record that Sen. Stewart-Cousins safety funding for the people political grandstand over of failing to deliver for co- sponsored this dog and of Yonkers, and delivers the the weekend in Yonkers, this city. As mayor, I feel pony show is the ultimate fair and equitable education while doing little-to- obligated to call this what hypocrisy. She comes funding that will help turn nothing to actually deliver it is: a campaign stunt, and to Yonkers pretending our children away from for the people of the city. a shameful one at that,” to do something about that dangerous lifestyle.” At the Yonkers YMCA Amicone charged. gang violence and drugs. “We need less talk and on Saturday, Gillibrand “We don’t need our and-a-half ago, and it’s Meanwhile, the state budget more action from our two and Stewart-Cousins legislators to come to no coincidence that this she and her colleagues in senators, both in Washington conducted a community Yonkers and tell us we have is the year she’s running the Legislature have so far and in Albany. Campaign roundtable on the subjects a gang a and drug problem. for election. And despite failed to adopt cuts tens of photo ops don’t get the of drugs and gang violence. All that demonstrates is a our repeated requests, she millions in state funding to job done; in fact, they’re But Amicone says it was firm grasp of the obvious. has yet to meet with me or Yonkers and will force us counter productive. Let’s nothing more than a photo What we need is for them any city officials to even to layoff police officers and see Senators Gillibrand and op staged for members to deliver the funding that discuss ways that she can other city workers --- the Stewart-Cousins actually of the press in order to will help us combat these help the city in Congress. very people we’re counting deliver some funding for convince community issues and build stronger, I’m sorry to say that her on to combat gangs and our police officers, for anti- leaders that the senators are safer communities.” record is one of empty talk drug violence on the front drug and -gang programs, actually doing something The mayor continued, and zero action.” lines,” Mayor Amicone and for education. If that meaningful. All evidence is “To my knowledge, this Since January of last said, referring to more than happens, I’ll be the first one to the contrary, according is the first time Sen. year Mayor Amicone has $40 million in municipal to stand up and pat them of to Amicone. Gillibrand has even set been to Washington twice and education cuts in the the back. Until then, it’s “The community meeting foot in Yonkers on official on official city business, state budget. time to put up or shut up,” held by Senators Gillibrand business since becoming lobbying federal officials Amicone added, “If Sen. Amicone concluded. and Stewart-Cousins our senator almost a year- for more investment in Stewart-Cousins really

The Spoof Spider-Man Stuck in Apple iPad, Wants Out He has e-mailed to friends that Steve Jobs is living herself a face transplant and in the 2007 Derringer four major complaints a life of luxury, while a lot of trouble). Her story Award competition. about his current housing: condemning him to live “Even Steven” was a finalist 1. He’s claustrophobic in a space not big enough and would much rather for a tiny spider, let alone a be climbing up and down fully-gown action hero. skyscrapers, rather than Spider-Man is the being confined. ultimate hero who is 2. His living space usually in control of every Advertise inside the iPad is so small, situation. Now he’s in dire By Gail Farrelly it’s really difficult for him straits. His fans are worried. to squeeze his middle-aged Will he be able to spin his The Apple iPad body into his costume, way out of this one? revolution of 2010 is especially the headgear. exciting for the business 3. In the tight quarters Gail Farrelly is the author community. But it’s been of the iPad residence, he’s of three mystery novels. a complete disaster for at constantly running into the The latest is “Creamed least one person: 48-year- villains he despises -- Green at Commencement: A old Spider-Man. Not good Goblin, Doctor Octopus and Graduation Mystery.” news for him that Marvel Venom. To quote Spider- One of her short stories 914-562-0834 Comics has developed an Man directly, “There goes is published online: “Get app that makes the iPad his the neighborhood!” Yourself a Face” (about a [email protected] new home. 4. He thinks it’s unfair Mafia princess who buys 24 WESTCHESTER HERALD May 3, 2010