Saturday, January 28, 2006

Week in Review 1/23 - 1/27

Monday 1/23
Attorney General Eliot Spitzer is most famous for going after Wall Street malfeasance, but in immigrant communities his office is just as well known for prosecuting violations involving low-wage workers, illegal and legal alike. This approach has won him fans among many immigrants and their advocates, but some employers and lawyers are claiming he has unjustly put a priority on illegal immigrants instead of legal residents.

The new speaker of the City Council proposed legilsation that will require hospitals to notify patients of financial assistance plans and to report the amount of charity care they provide. Manny’s Law was drafted after an uninsured patient died when a hospital allegedly delayed surgery because of insurance status.

Gale Brewer, the Upper West Side City Councilor, wants to ban the sale of reconditioned mattresses as part of an effort to tackle the spread of bedubugs in apartments and hotels citywide.

A proposal to build a multimillion-dollar mall in a dilapidated area of the Bronx is sparking debate about whether the City Council has the authority to use its land-use power to block certain stores. Several City Council members and community opponents of the project are saying that opening a BJ’s, which charges a membership fee and generally does not accept food stamps, is a disservice to the local community.

With new budgetary concerns for Fiscal Year 2007, Democratic lawmakers fear the mayor may threaten to closer more firehouses.

Lawrence Kudlow calls for tax cuts to keep the New York economy on track. On Monday, he publishes an op-ed titled Capital Ideas, where he explains what New York State needs to do in order to steer the ship in the right direction.

Gubernatorial candidate, John Faso, writes an editorial on Govornor Pataki’s education tax credit which will benefit poor and middle-income New Yorkers. The first bill of such a plan was first proposed by Mr. Faso, when he was Minority Leader in the State Assembly.

Tuesday 1/24
Mayor Mike Bloomberg returns to his Rockefellor roots after he said he would not raise taxes and now proposes to raise taxes. Mayor Mike’s war on tobacco increases by 50¢, in addition to Gov Patatki’s proposal of a $1 increase on the state tax. The idea, he said, isn’t that this tax will increase city revenue, it’s just he wants more people to quit. The most likely outcome will be that poorer New Yorkers will deafult in their bills and have to collect welfare. The City Council should oppose this tax and it would be wise for each of us to call our representative and tell them to strike down this proposal.

The Upper West Side open seat in the 67 Assembly District has seven democrats vying for the nomination. Linda Rosenthal (favorite), Marc Landis, Arthur Greig, Charles Imohiosen, Charles SImon, Tom Weiss and Michael Lupinacci will all present their case for being the county committee nomination on Sunday, Jan 29. Under current county election law for Special Elections, the districts 240 committee members nominate the party candidate. Three democrats who don’t expect the nomination, Simon, Weiss and Lupinacci have been petitioning to get an independent ballot line. All candidates could also seek the nomination of the Independence, Working Families and Conservative Party, parties that already have perminent ballot lines.The lone republican candidate, Emily Csendes, who ran for the State Senate in 2004, is received her party’s endorsement Thursday night.

Wednesday 1/25
Republican candidate, John Faso, announced that he would not abide by a court decision requiring the state to give billions more dollars in aid to the New York City public schools. “The courts can’t make the Legilsture and the governor appropriate money,” Mr. Faso said. “The notion that we’re going to turn over school funding decisions to a single judge in Manhattan and three hand-picked special masters is absurd.

Nassau County Executive, Tom Suozzi, took on the state Democratic establishment saying party leaders like Sheldon Silver and party chairman, Herman Farrell were part of the problems that plague Albany.

Thursday 1/26
We’ve become that much closer to the candidacy of Tom Golisano, an independent businessman from Rochester, who has ran three times on a reform agenda and viciously attacked Gov. Pataki each time. It could spell major doom for the New York Republican Party and create a worse case scenerio by knocking the party down to the third of fourth row on the ballot.

Gubernatorial candidate, Randy Daniels, continues his writing campaign of op-eds on the rising costs of Health Care and how we can get it under control.

Friday 1/27
Former US Senate candidate, Ed Cox, has announced that he will not restart his campaign to challenge Sen. Hillary Clinton. This puts former Yonkers mayor, John Spencer, front and center as the republican candidate. Mr. Spencer has quietly been gaining support in the conservative and republican ranks and it is quiet possible that when the time comes, his campaign will explode as a real alternative against the former first lady.

For anyone who remembers the legislation passed in Congress that says states must improve their voting machines, will learn that New York has failed to have new and improved systems in place for this November. The legislation states that new systems must be in place by 2006. Of course, our corrupt incumbo-crats in Albany have spent the money elsewhere.

New York Sun columnist, Alicia Colon calls Governor Pataki to to lead the party at its current moment of disaray. Though her comments are well intentioned, they are not for the true reform-minded republicans. In all honesty, it’s time the NYGOP move on from the Pataki era and build with new leaders to take the party in the right direction. Two years after being sworn in as governor, George Pataki has taken the state party down a road to ruin. In order for the GOP to rebuild, we must look to new leaders like John Spencer, Ed Cox, Pat Manning and John Sweeney.

Saturday, January 21, 2006

Week in Review 1/16-1/20

Monday 1/16
Gov. Pataki has signed a new law to provide greater oversight and tighter regulation of state authorities that handle billions of dollars in public money for state purposes like maintaining the Thruway and running mass transit in New York City.

Under the state Office for the Aging is reviewing a program that will provide cash payments to people willing to assist their elderly neighbors during their free time. The services would be made available through a state Expanded In-Home Services for the Elderly Program, which is expected to serve 51,000 seniors this year. A similar program is already available under Medicaid, mostly for the disabled.

Sen. Schumer has found a tax he opposes - the 3% federal excise tax tacked onto every cell phone bill. Sen. Schumer is demanding the Internal Revenue Service return the collected tax to the consumer. A federal appeals court in Washington DC ruled the tax is illegal because it applies to calls that are measured by distance. Cell phone calls are measured by time. Two other courts with jurisdiction over seven states have voided the tax.

Tuesday 1/17
Sen Hillary Clinton likened the House of Representatives to being run like a “plantation.” Unlike Trent Lott, Sen. Clinton is a democrat and will likely get away with her rhetoric. Republican challenger, John Spencer, has called on the senator to apologize for the divisive comment. Sen. Clinton, though, thinks she’s above it all and has done no such thing.

Gov. Pataki proposes legislation to tighten financial aid regulations for commercial colleges in the state in an effort to guard against giving grants to students who aren’t academically qualified. If implemented, the plan could reduce state spending on its largest student financial aid program by hundreds of millions of dollars. 2006 Budget.

Wednesday 1/18
What a week for Gov. Pataki. He will finish is long tenure as New York Governor aggressively proposing tax cuts and pro-growth legislation to encourage new startup businesses in the state. The governor proposed a $110 billion budget that is filled with goodies. Unfortunately, it proposes spending that is greater than the rate of inflation.

The L train becomes the city’s first computer controlled train as the MTA tests fully automated trains (except for a motorman) during off hours. New York City is the last major city to use the antiquated “Automatic Block Signals” system, which dates back to the New York system’s inception (1904).

Thursday 1/19
There’s an arcane law on the books known as the Blaine Law. The current state constitution includes this 19th Century anti-catholic law and it is often used to hinder school choice legislation whenever parochial schools are involved. Gov. George Pataki has proposed a school plan that would include tuition tax credits to parents who choose to send their kids to a nonpublic school. The Blaine Law would prevent the catholic school option. The issue of giving parents school choice will be on the forefront of the gubernatorial race this year. Conservatives advocate that government should not hinder options for parents and that it is the parent’s decision, not governments, to decide which school would best accommodate their child. Liberals wish to block school options for parents because they believe parents shouldn’t be making the decisions, government should. With government making decisions, liberals have to advocate the “Establishment Clause” which is simply bunk.

County Executive Tom Suozzi has set up his exploratory committee for governor and will now tour the state so he can get a feel of his gubernatorial chances. Democrats are furious because King Eliot should not be challenged in his right to be anointed. Republicans are happy, not because they intend on drafting a Wilson-Pakula for Suozzi, but hope a contested race on the Democrats side should and could damage Spitzer’s reputation. Regardless of which party we tend to support, incumbo-crats, regardless of political affiliation, need to be axed. Party hacks of both parties have depleted the resources in our state. We used to have 43 electoral votes (2 US senators and 41 representatives) two censuses ago and now we have 31 electoral votes. This means we are losing our residents because we drive away business with high taxes and unfriendly regulations for business.

Councilman Charles Barron (D) is at it again. He was at a council meeting sitting next to a statue of Thomas Jefferson. He objected, calling one of our founding fathers a “slave holding pedophile.” Councilman Oddo (R) responded by rolling his eyes and sighing.

The New York Yankees and New York Mets are one step closer to breaking ground on stadium construction. I’m just looking forward to when pitchers and catchers report at the start of February.

Friday 1/20
It appears democrats will vote “no” on Judge Samuel Alito and his confirmation will be along party lines. Though we live in a Federated Constitutional Republic, where decision beyond the constitution should be left to the states, democrats still feel states should have very few rights. Where euthanasia and capital punishment are state issues, abortion is not. Strange, I know. Though democrats would gain the upper hand on a state level with elections if abortion returned to the state level, they are reluctant to support a judge who could potentially do them the favor. If they truly believe “mainstream” America favors a “woman’s right to terminate life,” why do they continue to fight the issue by saying lies to the American people?

Osama Bin Laden wants to be our friend. Cheney, Biden, Schumer and many politicians regardless of party, gave the finger to the mastermind behind 9/11. One can only home Vice President Dick Cheney would make a statement that would be along the lines of his lovely remark in the Senate chambers some time ago. Though the following may appear sexist, sexism is still seen throughout other cultures. If we could be politically incorrect for a moment here’s a wonderful slap in the face of terrorists:

“The American People have one thing to say to Osama Bin Laden and the terrorists who kill innocent civilians. We’re sorry you lack sufficient manhood to please women. We understand that you cowardly hide behind burkas, draping your image like the muslim women of your culture, because your reproductive parts are almost women-like. A real man would have the courage to show his face and be a man during wartime. Our liberal society has surgeons that can complete your desire to become true women, so if you want a truce, we can help you. We also treat our women equally, so you would not lose any of your rights as a woman.”

Saturday, January 14, 2006

Wanted: Republican Candidates in New York Assembly Districts - Vol. 5

The final New York City borough to review for my series on competitive assembly districts is Manhattan.

The heart of New York City, New York county has elected republicans to the assembly even when the voter ratio is greater than in the outer boroughs. However, it appears that these successes are a thing of the past and the county committee is trying to figure out what it needs to do to return to glory.

The New York Republican County Committee must field candidates in the following districts for every election cycle. They must pound it into the minds of the voters that New York needs a strong opposition party, an elected opposition party, to prevent us from slipping back into the the era of crime and economic recession.

Assembly District 64
Assemblyman Sheldon Silver.
Battery Park City, Wall Street, Financial District, Chinatown, Little Italy, Lower East Side, Corlear’s Hook.
The district that has the Assembly Majority Leader, it is imperative that the Republican Party challenges Mr. Silver every two years with someone strong and formidable. The district has a registration ratio of 6 Democrats to 1 Republican so it is certainly an uphill challenge. Also, Silver challenges petitions all the time and is successful. In 2005, the Republican Manhattan Borough candidate, with no money and no campaigning in the 64 AD, got 19.2% of the vote. (Candidate Barry Popik’s results can be found at Urban Elephants). Getting nearly 20% of the vote with no name recognition is certainly an encouraging sign for any Republican running in this district. A challenger to Silver in 2006 who makes the ballot will really give us a good idea on the potential of a real formidable candidate. If you know of someone running, definitely volunteer for petitioning. We need someone on the ballot so we can learn our chances.

Assembly District 65
Assemblyman Alexander B Pete Gannis
Roosevelt Island, Yorkville, Upper East Side East
This district has a registration ratio of 2.5 Democrats to 1 Republican. Definitely a district that a Republican can take on. The Knickerbocker Club is the local county club. A Republican should be fielded in this district with every election cycle for assembly.

Assembly District 66
Assemblywoman Deborah J. Glick
Abingdon Square, West Village, Greenwich Village, Soho, Tribeca.
This district has a registration ratio of 6.1 Democrats to 1 Republican. This would be a district to certainly consider a candidate. There is currently no active district club, so a strong candidacy could help build a local republican base and continue being a voice in the community. In order to bring better voting odds to districts is to field a candidate, with someone behind the scenes working to establish local representation. The Board of elections lists only 14 committee seats out of potentially 200 as filled. This indicates there is hardly any republican presence in an area that has potential of shifting to the right.

Assembly District 67
OPEN
Riverside Park, Upper West Side, West Side, Clinton (Hell’s Kitchen)
This district has a registration ratio of 4.8 Democrats to 1 Republican. Right now, Republicans are looking for someone to run in a Special Election expected for February. If no one steps forward, it will definitely be a seat to consider for November. The district is represented by the Parker Republican Club and I’ve heard there is a new Upper West Side Club, though I don’t have the name at the moment. Any Manhattan district below 5-1 should never miss an assembly election. Republicans should pound their platform over and over.

Assembly District 73
Assemblyman Jonathan L. Bing
Upper East Side, Central Park East, Sutton Place, Hunter College, Park Avenue, United Nations, Grand Central, Murry Hill North
This district has a registration ratio of 2 Democrats to 1 Republican. Definitely a district that the Republican Party must go after year after year. The district is represented by the Metropolitan Republican Club, which is also the home base of the NYRCC. If the GOP doesn’t field someone for this district, then I suggest a coup to topple the Executive Committee of County. There is no reason this district remains unchallenged.


Assembly District 74
OPEN
Murry Hill, Waterside, Gramercy Park, Union Square, Peter Cooper Village-Stuyvesant Town, Alphabet City
The voter registration for this district is 5.1 Democrat to 1 Republican. I’m not going to say this is an easy district. It certainly does have a voting base that tends to focus on issues, though and should consider a candidate with every election cycle. There will be a Special Election for this district too and right now there is a candidate running. If you would like to help out, contact the candidate through the district club at albanoclub@gmail.com. The Vincent Albano Republican Club is the local club.

Assembly District 75
Assemblyman Richard N. Gottfried.
Central Park South, Clinton, Midtown, Chelsea, Flatiron District, Gramercy Park West, Madison Square.
The voter registration for this district is 4.3 Democrat to 1 Republican. The district club is the TR Group, which was started by former council candidate Michelle Bouchard. It is a very active club that can certainly be home-base for any candidate running. County should not overlook this district either.

The remaining districts (68, 69, 70, 71, 72) republicans have almost no chance of winning with voter ratios 10-1 or greater. However, that is not to say someone should not run. The goal for running in these districts would be to build a club. Club organizations in communities show the voters of the district that the party cares about the people is should represent. It should be the voice of the people when they oppose policy initiatives that can hurt the area. Standing with the people during times when the people object to government could lead to increased party registration and involvement. The 69 AD has a club, The Fighting 69th and the 70 AD has Harlem Republican Club. Both need to help build local representation, as do the other districts in northern manhattan.

There are two objectives for anyone running for office. One, if you have a good shot of winning because of the odds and your competitiveness, you should run to win so New York City has more republicans going to Albany. Two, if you know your chances of winning are slim, your goal should be building the party in your assembly district. Get your supporters together to join or form a local district club. Get them to run for open county committee seats so Election Districts have representation. It’s grassroots in its most active form. Pretty soon, you should start to see your district go from a 11-1 ratio (like in the 72 AD - Inwood) to a 8-1 or 7-1 voter ratio. It can happen. You just need patience, determination and you need to start by getting involved.

Friday, January 13, 2006

Week in Review 1/9 - 1/13

Monday, 1/9
A fifth private bus line has been brought under the operation of the MTA. Mayor Bloomberg announced an agreement had been completed with Green Bus Lines, which operates 230 buses on 20 routes.

By removing competition in transportation, New Yorkers are now beholden to the whims of the bureacratic beast known as the MTA.

New York’s traffic safety laws are among the best in the nation but still fall short in key areas, an auto safety watchdog group said in a study. Just 16 states earned “green” ratings in the Advocates for HIghway and Auto Safety report.

New York City Council members start the new year with padding their “war chests” for future endeavors. This week launched various fundraising events for councilors such as Eric Gioia, Simcha Felder and Peter Vallone, Jr. Because councilors are term-limited out, many are looking at possible futures in higher office.

Tuesday, 1/10
Community Leader and local businessman, Frank Scala, was unanimously nominated last night by the Vince Albano Club members and district committee members as the republican candidate for the 74th Assembly District. Mr. Scala has been involved in the New York Republican Party for over forty years and has been active in the community for more than eight years. For more information, go here.

Bloomberg announced that he was promoting his communications director, Edward Skyler, to the post of deputy mayor for administration. Mr. Skyler will assist the mayor in managing departments, including the Police, Fire, Labor, OEM, Budget and Law Departments.

The State Legislature opened its 2006 session racing against the clock to keep thousands of convicted sex offenders living in communities from vanishing from the public registry. Right now, the senate and assembly cannot agree on a uniform bill. The senate wants lifetime registration for offenders, the assembly wants to wait for a standard set by Congress. The democrat-controlled assembly apparently does not believe in state sovereignty.

New Speaker to the City Council, Christine Quinn, said she will allow members the option to publicly debate proposed legislation, which rarely happened under Gifford Miller. A more open and democratic process should help the council with make the right decisions when voting on new legislation.

Wednesday, 1/11
It’s done. The famous 2nd Avenue Deli is officially closed by the owner, Jack Lebewohl, who wants new lease terms with the new building owner. The neighborhood fixture needs to renovate and wants to renegotiate a new lease after the eatery is brought to NYC code.

Governor Pataki will include money in his executive budget for education tax credits that would go to parents of students for all schools, not just public. Proponents of education tax credits say the credits would be less powerful than vouchers but would still give low-income families more choices about where to send their children to school. Opponents such as UFT say the tax credits would siphon money from the public school system.
http://www.nysun.com/article/25656

Thursday, 1/12
The mayor filled his top two slots of his communications team, his latest of second-term rearragements. James Anderson, associate commissioner of Dept of Homeless Services, will be the new communications director. Also, Stuart Loeser will be the mayor’s new press secretary. Previously, Loeser was a spokesman for Sen. Charles Schumer (D).

With the completion of the Judicial hearings for confirming Judge Samuel Alito, New Yorkers and all Americans learned what a vicious and partisan politician Senator Charles Schumer is. If you didn’t realize it already, the Democratic Party, the supposed “inclusive” party, has shown its true colors of hate by spitting venom at anyone who is not one of them. It’s all about abortion. If the democrats really believed in “the mainstream of America” then they wouldn’t fear Roe v. Wade being overturned. Why? Because the mainstream in each state, according to them, would legislate to legalize abortion. So what is their problem?

New Yorkers of all stripes should be familiar with Albany, Inc. If there is a reason to forget party loyalty and vote for a true reformer in the gubernatorial race, then this is the reason.

Once again, Rich “Goose” Gossage was snubbed from the baseball Hall of Fame. The grandfather of the closer role, the Goose was known as “The Stopper” in his day and would be brought in during any point of the game. Imagine Joe Torre bringing in Mariano Rivera in the sixth or seventh inning to complete games. On a regular basis. It’s a crime not to vote this man into the Hall of Fame. Comparing Gossage to relief pitchers from the 1970s to the present, there is no better man with a record such as his.

Friday, 1/13
Thomas Golisano and Thomas Suozzi set up committees to enter the New York Governors race. All is fair in love and war. Golisano recently switched his party registration to republican and will petition if not chosen as a candidate in the GOP convention. Suozzi has remained silent up until recently, since he recently won reelection for Nassau County Executive and wanted to keep his priorities in order. Now it seems the man who started the Fix Albany campaign two years ago will start pecking away at the party establishment, Eliot Spitzer.

Randalls Island could get a water park. The city’s Franchise and Concession Review Committee voted yesterday to clear negotiations for a proposed $168 million water park on the island. The current plan covers 26 acres of the island, including a 7 acre parcel for a year-round indoor beach club.

Sunday, January 08, 2006

Wanted: Republican Candidates in KINGS Assembly Districts - Vol. 4

Brooklyn is the strangest borough, because it has some Assembly Districts with a close 2-1 voter ratio to some districts as wide as a 15-1 voter ratio. Republicans really need to target some of these districts, because winning is certainly a possibility.

Brooklyn is not devoid of elected Republicans. Martin Golden is a State Senator and elected leader for the borough. If you know which district you live in, you can check out who your local leaders are by going to the Kings Republican County Committee page.

The following Assembly Districts are ones with good odds for a competitive race.
BROOKLYN
District 44
Assemblyman James F. Brennan
Park Slope, Prospect Park, Windsor Terrace, Kennigston and Flatbush. The registered voter ratio is 5.5 Democrats to 1 Republican. May not be a winner, but can be competitive and can help build the two republican clubs representing the district.

District 45
Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz
Midwood, Sheepshead Bay and Manhattan Beach. Sadly, the voter totals for registered Democrats was unattainable, however, there are more than 9,700 registered republicans, which could mean the ratio is somewhere around 4-1 to 5-1.
*UPDATE* Ratio is 3.3 Dem to 1 Rep

District 46
Assemblywoman Adele Cohen
Brighton, Coney Island, Sea Gate, Gravesend, Shore Pkwy to Dyker Beach, Dyker Heights and Fort Hamilton. The registered voter ratio is 3.2 Democrats to 1 Republican. An active and well organized campaign could bring a victory.

District 47
Assemblyman William Colton
Gravesend, Bensonhurst (east) to Washington Cemetery. The registered voter ratio is 3 Democrats to 1 Republican. These numbers show that many of the southern townships of Brooklyn are competitive and winnable. Republicans need to start running real, legitimate candidates, instead of token candidates on the ballot.

District 48
Assemblyman Dov Hikind
Dyker Heights, Borough Park into Midwood, this gerrymandered district is slightly better than 3.4 Democrats to 1 Republican. Definitely a competitive district for a Republican.

District 49
Assemblyman Peter J. Abbate, Jr.
Bath Beach, Bensonhurst, up to Borough Park (south). The registered voter ratio is 2.3 Democrats to 1 Republican. The odds are similar to District 26 in Queens, which I know had a republican assemblyman in the past. I’m not sure if the 49 AD has, but with these odds, it can start.

District 59
OPEN
Canarsie, Flatlands, Georgetown, Bergen Beach, Mill Basin and Marine Park. The registered voter ratio is 4 Democrats to 1 Republican. There will be a Special Election in February for this district, so Republicans need to jump on the opportunity here. The Dirksen Republican Club is the 59 AD Club. I’ve been told the Democrats in these neighborhoods do cross party lines and tend to have traditional family values. If you can convince them to vote using their conservative ideals, you could pull off an upset.

District 60
Assemblyman Matthew Minores (Republican)
Bay Ridge, Shore Road over the Verz. Bridge to Staten Island. I previously gave the 60 AD a 1.2-1 ratio, but I realized that was a bit low. The voters in Brooklyn have a 1.8 Democrat to 1 Republican, so that would average out to more of a 1.5 Dem to 1 Rep. Assemblyman Mirones does a fine job and if you live in the area, volunteering for his reelection campaign can give you experience for running in the future.

I’ve said this before, if you liven in a district that has a 8-1 voter ratio or a 5-1 voter ratio, even an 11-1 ratio, that should deter you from running. Every district needs party activity and the only way to build registration is to be active and let the communities know the republican party cares. The 43 AD is said to have only 2,975 registered Republicans out of potential 100,000 voters for a district. By starting a Republican Club, getting republicans organized and elected to their county committee seats, great things can happen. Even if no candidate wins local or state office, if you successfully increase your voter registration to 3,975 in four years, you have done your job.

Wanted: Republican Candidates in BRONX Assembly Districts - Vol. 3

The Bronx is historically Democrat with small pockets of conservative-minded voters. It has 11 Assembly Districts and five have a voter registration ratio greater than 15 democrats to 1 republican.

Only three can produce campaigns that could be considered competitive and worth a venture by Republican challengers. The Bronx Republican County Committee is where you would need to present a case to why you think you would make a great candidate. You may also wish to consider reaching out to the Bronx Conservative County Committee.

BRONX
The 3 districts where republican campaigns could work:
District 80.
Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera
Jerome Park Reservour, Bedford Park, Bronx River Forest, Pelham Parkway, Morris Park, Van Nest, Westchester & Westchester Heights. The registered voter ratio is 4.7 Democrats to 1 Republican.

District 81.
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz
Riverdale, Spuyten Duyvil, Kings Bridge, Van Cortland Park, Woodlawn Cemetery, Norwood, Woodlawn and Wakefield. The registered voter ratio is 5.7 Democrat to 1 Republican. This is the toughest district I’m listing as a potential competitive district. In other boroughs, I would not consider listing a district that is so close to a 6 - 1 ratio.

District 82.
Assemblyman Michael Bennedeto
Eastchester, Pelham Bay Parkway, Hunter Island, Orchard Beach, Co-Op City, Baychester, City Island, Country Club, Shuylerville, Edgwater Park, Locust Point, Throgs Neck and Ferry Point Park. The registered voter ratio is 4.3 Democrat to 1 Republican, the best odds Republicans have in the Bronx.

If you are a republican or conservative living in these towns, and have an interest in serving your county in Albany, contact your county committee and help build the right-leaning parties. Do it now.

The steps you should take are as follows:
1) Registered with the Board of Elections as a candidate.
2) Hold fundraisers with family, friends, party members and aquaintences, so you can begin raising money.
3) Set up a website with your platform, the district information, organize a volunteer organization and solicit contributions.
4) Mail to all registered Republicans and Conservatives your agenda, your qualifications and give them options to contribute.
5) Make public appearances and be prepared to provide information on how attendees can help your campaign.
6) Expand your mailing to registered voters to no party and the importance of having at least one republican in your counties 11 member caucus. Solicit contributions.

If all works out, and you raise enough money to start expanding your campaign to the registered democrats, then you can potentially get voters to cross party-lines to vote for someone to bring a reform agenda to Albany.

Saturday, January 07, 2006

Week in Review 1/3 - 1/6

Tuesday 1/3
Congressman Vito Fossella called on the Dept for Homeland Security to rethink a possible change in the way it distributes its funds for urban areas, warning that the proposal could lead to a decrease in funds for terrorism prevention. The congressman believes that by expanding the number of initiatives, to cover natural disasters and health crises, the allocation of funds will decrease to large at-risk cities like New York.

Three Assembly seats in New York City will be part of a Special Election called this Spring. In Manhattan, the 67th Assembly District has been vacated by Scott Stringer, who has been elected the Borough President. The 74th Assembly District has been vacated by Steven Sanders, who retired and will be working in the private sector. In Brooklyn, the 59th Assembly District held by Mr. Frank Seddio, became open when he was selected to be a surrogate judge.

After declaring a "War on Guns" in his innauguration speech for his second term, Mayor Mike Bloomberg received some criticism from the National Rifle Association, accusing him of "intimidating law abiding Americans." Director of Public Affairs, Andrew Arulanandam said, "We take every threat towards the rights of law abiding Americans seriously, but we think the mayor would be better served if he would put his financial muscle towards cracking down on criminals, not intimidating law abiding citizens."

There were six murders in the city in the first two days of the new year. The homocides of 2006 come on the heels of a record-low year of violence. The number of homocides dropped to 540 in 2005, the lowest figure since 1963, the first year the Police Dept started formally tracking crime.

Post-holiday shoppers taking advantage of enticing regbate offers should watch out for scams, warns Senator Charles Schumer. Although as many as 400 million rebates worth are offered each year, nearly half are never received because of extensive documentation required for the refund. Many customers do not read the fine print for receiving a rebate. The senator called on the FTC to standardize rebate policy.

Wednesday 1/4
New York State reports a $2 billion surplus for the current fiscal year. Moments after the surplus was reported, Republicans and Democrats punced on the money, offering competing plans for what to do with it. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver wants teh state to devote the surplus toward complying with the increases in funding to New York City public schools, which the governor is appealing. Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno says it ought to be used to help reduce property taxes and criticizing Mr. Silver's plan. Governor Pataki urged caution and planned on discussing the matter at his State of the State address.

Two deputies leave Mayor Bloomberg's administration. Peter Madonia, the mayor's chief of staff, will become the chief ooperating officer of the Rockefeller Foundation. William Cunningham, a senior adviser, will be an executive vice president at Dan Klores Communications.

Governor Pataki and legislative leaders announce a $435 million high-tech-center to be built in Albany and one of three tax-free business zones will be crated in Lower Manhattan to spur economic recovery. Both projects are supported by Assembly Leader Silver and Senate Leader Bruno.

Councilwoman Christine Quinn is elected Council Speaker and becomes the first woman to hold the title. Also various councilmembers are pushing for more individual and committee power within the new council.

Thursday 1/5
In his State of the State address, Governor Pataki outlined what could form the basis of his campaign platform for higher office. The speech targeted across the board tax-cuts, enforcing sexual predator laws, and domestic energy sources to lessen our dependency on foreign sources of energy.
Crime
  • 1) Preventing the release of sex criminals into neighborhoods. 2) Creating longer sentences for people convicted of sex crimes. 3) Ending the statute of limitations for rape and sexual assault.
    Taxes
  • 1) Completely eliminating the 'marriage penalty." 2) Providing a $500 heating fuel tax credit to thousands of seniors. 3) Eliminating the state tax. 4) Cutting the income tax rate. 5) Cutting taxes on businesses.
    Education
  • 1) Committing more funding to 'high-needs' schools in NYC and throughout the state. 2) Expanding the number of charter schools throughout the state. 3) creating new summer math and science programs for middle school students. 4) Giving free SUNY or CUNY tuition to students who study math & science and committed to teaching in NY.
    Energy
  • 1) Reducing dependence on 'terror-promoting' foreign oil by making revneweable fuels available at gas stations across the state. 2) Promoting the development of hybrid vehicles. 3)Encouraging companies to develop clean, renewable energy.

    A group of NY Republican activists launch a website, www.draftnovello.com, to drum up support for the state's health commissioner, Antonia Novella, to challege Senator Hillary Clinton. Governor George Pataki believes Ms. Novello will make a strong Senate candidate, though many elected republicans disagree and believe NY State County Committees should focus on two candidates already still in the mix, former Yonkers mayor, John Spencer and Sullivan county tax attorney, William Brenner.

    Congressman Anthony Weiner introduces a bill to limit areas eligible for anti-terror funds and focus on protecting high-threat urban areas. The congressman was joined by Queens coucilman, Peter Vallone, Jr. saying the new system of allocating funds, by including natural disasters and health crises, is absurd.

    Friday 1/6
    A commision of economists, appointed by Goveror George Pataki, seek to overhaul New York's tax code and make some drastic cuts to spur major economic growth on par with the national rate. The seven panel commission led by Lawrence Kudlow, is recommending New York slash its top personal income tax rate to 5% from 6.85%, reducing the number of brackets to three, instead of the current five. During the past year, the panel reviewed the current structure and concluded a massive overhaul was needed to provide a new pro-growth structure, help business development and jobs upstate, and tax releif to every sector of the State.
    For the Personal Income Tax
  • 1) Reduce the top tax rate to 5% from 6.85%. 2) Reduce the number of tax brackets from five to three, lower the tax rates below the top rate, and widen the tax brackets. 3) Eliminate the supplemental tax. 4) Exclude all income from captial gains and dividends.

    For The Corporate Taxes
  • 1) Reduce the income tax rate to 5% from the general fanchise tax, the bank tax, and the income tax on life insurance companies. 2) Eliminate all alternative income bases and the capital, asset, and subsidiary capital bases of taxation. 3) Eliminate capital gains and dividend taxation. 4) Provide expensing for capital assets.

    For the Estate Tax
  • Repeal the state's estate tax to conform with federal legislation.

    The number of sexual misconduct complains against Dept of Education employees increased 21% in 2005 from the year before. Sexual allegations range from relationships with students and physical or verbal sexual harassment.

    While a third accusation of Attorney General Eliot Spitzer threating or intimidating a individual to use his office against them, Mr. Spitzer is still denying the first one brought forth by Lower Manhattan Development Corporation executive, John Whitehead. As more developments appear in the press, the Attorney General must get out of neutral and begin to explain why more people are coming forward with his approach to using his power.

  • Monday, January 02, 2006

    Wanted: Republican Candidates in RICHMOND Assembly Districts - Vol. 2

    This is my second post for candidates and leaders of our boroughs to focus on Assembly Districts that have potential for Republican victory. Because the odds are against the GOP, it is important to review the statistical analysis and find out what resonates with voters in a given district.

    Staten Island
    Richmond County Committee website has a contact page of the leaders for the 4 Assembly Districts that cover the borough of Staten Island. Two districts have the only two elected Republicans to the Assembly in all of the five boroughs. The other two have very good odds for the GOP and it would be a major coup to take over the entire island.

    District 60.
    Assemblyman Matthew Mirones (Republican)
    Oakwood, Midland Beach, Arrochar, Rosebank and Bay Ridge (Brooklyn) make up the district, which has a ratio of 1.2 Democrats to 1 Republican. The Assemblyman is a Republican, so it will be important to volunteer for Mr. Mirones campaign to ensure reelection.

    District 61.
    Assemblyman John W. Lavelle
    Old Place, Port Richmond, Westerleigh, Castle Corners, West New Brighton, New Brighton, Livingston, Tompkinsville and Stapleton make up the district. The voter ratio comes out to 2.7 Democrats to 1 Republican. Of the four districts, this one has the worst odds for Republicans, however it is considerably much better than what we see in the other four boroughs and definitely not unwinnable.

    District 62.
    Assemblyman Vincent Ignizio (Republican)
    Tottenville, Charleston, Princes Bay, Rossville, Woodrow, Huguenot, Annadale, Eltingville, Greatkills, Richmond, Egebertville, Dongan Hills, and New Dorp. This district is already being held by a Republican and the voter ratio comes out to 1.3 Democrat to 1 Republican. Clearly, the two districts in Staten Island with the closest 1 to 1 odds have Republican Assemblyman. We need to assure they continue to hold these areas.

    District 63.
    Assemblyman Michael Cusick
    Travis, New Springville, Bloomfield, Bull's Head, Richmondtown, Howland Hook, Port Ivory, Emerson Hills, Grasmere and Sunnyside. The district has a ratio of 1.6 Democrat to 1 Republican. Certainly very competitive odds for any Republican willing run a strong campaign.

    *****

    Wanted: Republican Candidates in QUEENS Assembly Districts - Vol. 1

    New York is a blue state and the City of New York is certainly a strong royal blue with an average 5-1 ratio of Democrats to Republicans. Not one of the sixty-five Assembly Districts that make up New York City has a republican majority in voter registration! This is clearly evident in the ratio of elected officials we have. Right now, there are only two Assemblymen out of the sixty-five that represent the five boroughs. For a strong minority voice for fiscal discipline and government reform, we should have about ten or eleven assembly seats.

    It is possible to win some districts, even if the ratio is always favoring Democrats. Voters do cross party lines. We've seen it for citywide and statewide races. It's a challenge to convince someone to cross parties for a local race, but it is possible. Secure your republican base first, then reach out to the middle-of-the-road voters who will cross parties at the polls.

    So, if you're a registered republican interested in running for office and live in one of the following districts, now is the time to approach your county committee and start organizing a campaign for November 2006.

    QUEENS
    There are 17 Assembly Districts in Queens.

    District 23.
    Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pfeffer
    The Rockaway/Ozone Park area of Queens has a ratio of 2.8 Democrats to 1 Republican. The Republican Club you can contact is the Rockaway Republican Club. I'm familiar with some of the party leaders in the area and they will certainly bend over backwards to get you elected.

    District 24.
    Assemblymen Mark Weprin
    The Little Neck, Bellrose, Glen Oaks, Oakland Gardens Fresh Meadows district has a has a ratio of 3.2 Democrats to 1 Republican. Challenging Mr. Weprin will be a big challenge, because his brother, David Weprin, is City Councilor for the area. Residents who aren't politically minded may think the Weprin brothers are one and the same. The Republican Club organization to contact would be the Queens Village Republican Club. The Club also would be the direct contact organization if you wish to run in the 33 AD.

    District 25.
    Assemblymen Brian M. McLaughlin
    This Auburndale, Hillcrest, Utopia, Jamaica Estates district, like the 24 AD, has a ratio of 3.2 Democrats to 1 Republican. Republican candidates should be running on a reform agenda. 2006 could likely bring a Democratic controlled state. Assembly, Senate and Governorship. One-Party rule that can spend and bankrupt the state is not a good outlook. Someone who can voice opposition to Shelly Silver will be important.

    District 26.
    Assemblywoman Ann Margaret Carrozza
    This Douglaston, Bayside, Bay Terrace, Beechhurst district has a ratio of 2.3 Democrats to 1 Republican. Republicans can't get a better voter ratio than this. Ms. Carrozza had a rough reelection in 2004 with challenger Peter Boudouvas, however, with strong opposition against the president, she was able to win. This year is a mid-term election. No president and Gov. Pataki won't be seeking reelection. Strong reform-minded Republicans in William Weld and Patrick Manning are seeking the governorship. The local organization to contact would be the Northeast Queens Republican Club, once known as the Bayside Republican Club.

    District 27.
    Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn
    This College Point, Corona, Kew Garden Hills, Kew Gardens, Forest Hills district has a ratio of 3.7 Democrats to 1 Republican. The odds against a Republican are greater, but when districts are below the 5-1 average, you have to have hope. What becomes important is party organization and party support. If the support is out there for your campaign, you have a chance to get your message out.

    District 38.
    Assemblyman Anthony S. Seminerio
    This South Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Glendale, Ridgewood district has a ratio of 2.7 Democrats to 1 Republican. Republicans should seriously consider running a strong candidate and not a token candidate for the ballot. When you have these types of odds, you can potentially surprise the media and certainly the Democratic Party. With such good odds, you should contact the South Queens Republican Club. SQR would also be a organizational contact if you live in the 31 AD or 32 AD.

    Two other districts have modest odds for Republican Candidates. District 36 has a ratio of 4.2 Democrats to 1 Republican and District 37 has a ratio of 4.7 Democrats to 1 Republican. Winning in these areas may not seem likely, but if a well financed and well run campaign could surprise the nay-sayers. With more young professionals moving to the Astoria, Long Island City, Woodside, Sunnyside, Jackson Heights neighborhoods of Queens could bring more republicans into the areas.

    The ratios I've presented are taken from the Grassroots Initiative study done on county committees (which I've written about before) and unfortunately Districts 28 thru 34 did not have republican committee information listed with the Board of Elections. The Queens county committee should work on providing the necessary information to the BOE and from there, work on building a base in the neighborhoods seven districts represent.

    For a list of other Republican Clubs in Queens (and other parts of New York City, you can find them at Urban Elephants Club page. Find the nearest organization to where you live.

    ***Coming up***
    Vol 2 - The Bronx & Staten Island Districts