Thanks Dad, I miss you.

Heroes

When I was younger, our sports heroes were 60% athlete, 35% role model, and 5% endorsers...My how things have changed...now its 50% athlete, 45% endorser, and 5% role model (and those are the better ones) What happened to the heroes of yesterday. The ones that played as much for the love of the game as for the money. The ones that were glad to freely sign an autograph or visit a dying child. Those heroes are gone, they onl;y continue to exist in the minds of those that remember what is was like to look up to a sports figure and want to be like them. Todays sports 'stars' are whiney spoiled brats who operate with an air of entitlement and often outside the law. Between drugs, attitude, callousness, and the entire gamut of social ills that one might think they would be immune to, they leave us....well....wanting. I for one am blessed. I was never really into it as much as some of my fellow hunter-gatherers. So it is not a stretch for me to throw my hands up and be done with the whole lot of them. They all need to be reminded in some Christmas carol way that there are young impressionables out there longing to be ...just like them.

Rarely

Rarely will you find me linking to other sites, but I have to make an exception in this case. I came across this site through the forums on SILIVE.COM and it is somewhat impressive, so I will share it here. Please continue to check my blog as well.

http://boroughvoter.com/

Florida Teen Commits Preventable Online Suicide

A young man, in his prime, took his own life with a webcam running as logged on users typed away. NONE called for help till 10 hours later. This is a somber reminder that as we pass each other on the roads to our various destinations, we never really know what is going on in each others life. Take the time to talk to one another. Pass a stranger and smile (not freakishly of course). A kind word can go a long way. I know many of you have seen this story before, but I think this event is a good time to revisit it. Remeber your words have power. The power to hurt AND the power to heal. God Bless you all, God loves you, and so do I. The story...



One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, "Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd." I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon),so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.

As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him. He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him and as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye.

As I handed him his glasses, I said, "Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives." He looked at me and said, "Hey thanks!" There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before. He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play football on Saturday with me and my friends. He said yes. We hung all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him, and my friends thought the same of him.

Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, "Boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!" He just laughed and handed me half the books. Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends. When we were seniors, we began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown, and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor, and I was going for business on a football scholarship.

Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak.

Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than I had and all the girls loved him. Boy, sometimes I was jealous. Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, "Hey, big guy, you'll be great!" He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled. "Thanks," he said.

As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began. "Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach...but mostly your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story."

I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. "Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable. "I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.

Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life. For better or for worse. God puts us all in each other's lives to impact one another in some way. Look for God in others.

Have we learned anything? Not on Staten Island.

Mike McMahon's choice of Cognetta is eerily reminiscent of the snafu that buried McCain's chances for the White House. The unfortunate part is the election has already been decided. If this is any indication of how he intends to work in Congress, we'd better start vetting a new candidate pronto! What is so difficult about finding qualified, competent people that do not draw negative attention at the mere mention of their name? If this was still pre-election, he would be trying to find ways to explain that he is even friends with this guy. Mike, for your first at bat, you got a pitch right down the middle, and you whiffed it miserably. I have high hopes for the next pitch.

more? see-http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/11/staten_islands_mcmahon_names_c.html

If it wasn't a national issue

it might actually be funny...

What not to wear

There is a new and oft confusing set of emails and blog posts throughout the internet regarding what is and is not acceptable to wear when you go to vote. While the actual laws vary from state to state, some caution should be exercised here. Use good judgement and be prepared to be told to cover up or better still, save it for another place and time. While most enjoy wearing their choice, it is the actual vote that means more. Republican, Democrat, or Independent...leave the political wear at home....Happy Voting!

Executive Office is not the place for On-the-Job-Training

....unless your name is Sarah Palin of course. How can John McCain continue to present us with Sarah Palin while teaching her how to move in international diplomatic circles at the same time? At best, she can't possibly gain enough 'foreign policy experience' with a few short meetings no matter how many leaders she meets with... at its worse it speaks to how foolish a choice she is and further embarrasses the republican party. I guess next week we can expect to see the pictures of her with foreign leaders and McCain saying how she has met with more foreign leaders than Biden has. I have to hand it to the McCain Campaign though. They pulled of a better trick than anything David Blaine has ever done. To somehow get media coverage of their VP pick without a single question bieng asked/answered is an illusion beyond belief. As the illusion continues to fade, what will we be left with?

Race Conscious Democrats may Throw the Election Against Their Own Interests

The 2% or more difference in the state-state polls could possibly be determined by Democrats that are not quite ready to elect an African-American. Based on a recent AP poll, this group could cost Obama a practically assured win. So, in the interest of the advancement of racial neutrality, I offer this; If you can't fully vote for Obama based on half of his heritage, then go to the polls and register half a vote for him. You can't vote for the son of a Islamic Kenyan, then vote for the son of a Kansas homemaker. There you are now absolved of having voted for an African-American. In November, go halfheartedly to the polls and use only half your vote for the half of the person who YOU feel best represents YOUR ideals. Hold on to the other half of your vote, you wouldn't want to waste it.

What makes a Hero?

McCain's claim to fame, propped up more by others than himself, is his war 'hero' status. When asked most immediately respond with his capture and torture at the hands of the N. Viet....I say thats not what makes him a hero. When the firefighters/police died in the WTC, most people say they became heroes then. Thats not what makes them heroes. What makes John McCain a hero is when his plane caught fire on the USS Foresstal, he saved others without regard for his own life. He is a hero not because he was shot down and captured, but because he strapped into the cockpit ready to look death in the eye. The military is filled with thousands of heroes that continue to perform daily. The firefighters were heroes the moment they crossed the threshold of either tower. Heroism begins when someone puts the needs of others before their own need. John McCain is a bomber pilot hero in my book...but in THIS election he is putting his own needs and ambitions BEFORE the needs of the people he represents. That fault was never more apparent than his choice of the untested, unprepared, inexperienced, with too many skeletons lurking...Sarah Palin. Oh she's nice enough, but she is by far not the best the republicans can do

Beyond Tolerance

If you happened to be in the Port Richmond or Sunnyside neghborhoods on September 7th, you could have witnessed a strange sight. Coming out of a Baptist Church on Bennett Street were Jews and Hindu devotees, walking together. Coming out of a Synagouge on Post Ave were Buddhists and Catholics, walking together. At the Chapel of St. Nicholas in Sunnyside you could have witnessed Muslims and Baptists walking together. And at the new Hindu Temple on Victory Blvd the entire group continued to walk together. This is what can happen when we begin to not only tolerate our differences, but begin to move beyond tolerance and into the place where GOD (by the name you know him) would have us to be. NAMASTE, SHALOM, GRACE & PEACE, ASSALAMU ALAIKUM, PEACE, PEACE, PEACE

McCain's choice brings his judgement into question

The situation surrounding Republican Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin's Daughter is a personal family issue and has no place in the politics of the day. In fact, in today's society the potential to have someone in anyone's family be pregnant and unmarried is practically commonplace. HOWEVER Palin's positions, and leadership do become questionable based on this event. If her position is abstinence; it should have been preached so fiercely in her own home that all would follow without question. For all the weak parents out there that believe you can only do so much...you are wrong. There are many examples in other cultures where children RARELY go off on their own and make mistakes that are contrary to familial beliefs. WE, as Americans, simply don't have that level of control or respect from our children. Her leadership comes into question as this issue proves she lacks leadership within the walls of her home. Leadership is partially defined as the ability to INFLUENCE someone to do what you want or need them to do. Her influence (not her directives) failed. While these qualities and this issue in particular do not necessarily disqualify her for VP, they absolutely bring into question the judgement of her being the choice for VP.

Interested in becoming a member of Staten Island Views?

If you have read some of the posts and you would like to let people see what you think (other than commenting on existing stories), then become a member of Staten Island Views. As a member you will be able to submit your own subjects for review by our community. To be considered, submit a short essay on your position on a topic of your choosing. Spelling, grammar, and sound logic (I do not have to agree with your view, but you should present good logic to support it) will be considered. If your submission is recognized you will receive further instructions on what to do next. This offer is limited to Staten Island residents (or former residents) that care about the community of Staten Island. Good luck and start writing!

He ventured forth to bring light to the world

Blasphemous...but really funny. I guess some people have too much time on their hands.

From The Times
July 25, 2008
The anointed one's pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a miracle in action - and a blessing to all his faithful followers
By Gerard Baker

And it came to pass, in the eighth year of the reign of the evil Bush the Younger (The Ignorant), when the whole land from the Arabian desert to the shores of the Great Lakes had been laid barren, that a Child appeared in the wilderness.
The Child was blessed in looks and intellect. Scion of a simple family, offspring of a miraculous union, grandson of a typical white person and an African peasant. And yea, as he grew, the Child walked in the path of righteousness, with only the occasional detour into the odd weed and a little blow.
When he was twelve years old, they found him in the temple in the City of Chicago, arguing the finer points of community organisation with the Prophet Jeremiah and the Elders. And the Elders were astonished at what they heard and said among themselves: “Verily, who is this Child that he opens our hearts and minds to the audacity of hope?”
In the great Battles of Caucus and Primary he smote the conniving Hillary, wife of the deposed King Bill the Priapic and their barbarian hordes of Working Class Whites.
And so it was, in the fullness of time, before the harvest month of the appointed year, the Child ventured forth - for the first time - to bring the light unto all the world.
He travelled fleet of foot and light of camel, with a small retinue that consisted only of his loyal disciples from the tribe of the Media. He ventured first to the land of the Hindu Kush, where the
Taleban had harboured the viper of al-Qaeda in their bosom, raining terror on all the world.
And the Child spake and the tribes of Nato immediately loosed the Caveats that had previously bound them. And in the great battle that ensued the forces of the light were triumphant. For as long as the Child stood with his arms raised aloft, the enemy suffered great blows and the threat of terror was no more.
From there he went forth to Mesopotamia where he was received by the great ruler al-Maliki, and al-Maliki spake unto him and blessed his Sixteen Month Troop Withdrawal Plan even as the imperial warrior Petraeus tried to destroy it.
And lo, in Mesopotamia, a miracle occurred. Even though the Great Surge of Armour that the evil Bush had ordered had been a terrible mistake, a waste of vital military resources and doomed to end in disaster, the Child's very presence suddenly brought forth a great victory for the forces of the light.
And the Persians, who saw all this and were greatly fearful, longed to speak with the Child and saw that the Child was the bringer of peace. At the mention of his name they quickly laid aside their intrigues and beat their uranium swords into civil nuclear energy ploughshares.
From there the Child went up to the city of Jerusalem, and entered through the gate seated on an ass. The crowds of network anchors who had followed him from afar cheered “Hosanna” and waved great palm fronds and strewed them at his feet.
In Jerusalem and in surrounding Palestine, the Child spake to the Hebrews and the Arabs, as the Scripture had foretold. And in an instant, the lion lay down with the lamb, and the Israelites and Ishmaelites ended their long enmity and lived for ever after in peace.
As word spread throughout the land about the Child's wondrous works, peoples from all over flocked to hear him; Hittites and Abbasids; Obamacons and McCainiacs; Cameroonians and Blairites.
And they told of strange and wondrous things that greeted the news of the Child's journey. Around the world, global temperatures began to decline, and the ocean levels fell and the great warming was over.
The Great Prophet Algore of Nobel and Oscar, who many had believed was the anointed one, smiled and told his followers that the Child was the one generations had been waiting for.
And there were other wonderful signs. In the city of the Street at the Wall, spreads on interbank interest rates dropped like manna from Heaven and rates on credit default swaps fell to the ground as dead birds from the almond tree, and the people who had lived in foreclosure were able to borrow again.
Black gold gushed from the ground at prices well below $140 per barrel. In hospitals across the land the sick were cured even though they were uninsured. And all because the Child had pronounced it.
And this is the testimony of one who speaks the truth and bears witness to the truth so that you might believe. And he knows it is the truth for he saw it all on CNN and the BBC and in the pages of The New York Times.
Then the Child ventured forth from Israel and Palestine and stepped onto the shores of the Old Continent. In the land of Queen Angela of Merkel, vast multitudes gathered to hear his voice, and he preached to them at length.
But when he had finished speaking his disciples told him the crowd was hungry, for they had had nothing to eat all the hours they had waited for him.
And so the Child told his disciples to fetch some food but all they had was five loaves and a couple of frankfurters. So he took the bread and the frankfurters and blessed them and told his disciples to feed the multitudes. And when all had eaten their fill, the scraps filled twelve baskets.
Thence he travelled west to Mount Sarkozy. Even the beauteous Princess Carla of the tribe of the Bruni was struck by awe and she was great in love with the Child, but he was tempted not.
On the Seventh Day he walked across the Channel of the Angles to the ancient land of the hooligans. There he was welcomed with open arms by the once great prophet Blair and his successor, Gordon the Leper, and his successor, David the Golden One.
And suddenly, with the men appeared the archangel Gabriel and the whole host of the heavenly choir, ranks of cherubim and seraphim, all praising God and singing: “Yes, We Can.”

It is no longer a question of 'win or lose' in IRAQ, it is simply stay or go.

I received the following response to a request for what victory in Iraq entails (my comments follow each point);

1) A rebuilt infrastructure
That we destroyed by believing Bush's lies. If we are replacing what we destroyed...THAT IS NOT VICTORY, that is very close, however, to an apology.

2) A stable democracy that will/does not kill its own people.
An impossible feat, there are NO GUARANTEES that the democracy will stand 10, 20 or 100 years from now, without a large consistent military presence...surely you don't think that ALL of the opposition to peace and stability is gone?

3) A stable Iraq that does not work with any terrorist organization.
Another impossibility... the government may not officially support or harbor terrorists, but if they can't clamp down on what is going on in the country now, even with the surge and a somewhat stable government in power, then what will happen without the presence of the US military?

4) Create a professional military that is strong enough to defend itself from all threats both foreign and domestic
Something else we destroyed and would not have to replace, if we hadn't done such a bangup job.

5) The continued killing of terrorists
By who? And what if a terrorist backed regime takes over?....why would they kill themselves?

Listen it is no longer a question of win or lose and it never has been, the only reason that Iraq is the way it is now is due to our military presence (and that covers both the positives and the negatives). When we leave, whether anyone likes it or not nature will take its course. The only way to prevent that is to stay indefinitely. Staying indefinitely is neither a win nor a loss...there is NO WIN OR LOSE....only Stay OR GO! Get it?

The Iraq war will end...

but we will not 'win'.
I don't get the fascination with the word win. In the end when our men & women are back home or in Afghanistan, what will we have really accomplished? Start taking bets now on how long it takes for some military commander to seize power in Iraq and make our 'quest for democracy' a wasted effort. We gave far too much these past few years and have gained so little. Our troops fought valiantly and did the job they were sent to do, but I can't help feeling that this will all be for naught. There is no 'victory', no defeat either, but certainly no victory.

Stop the Violence!

Just returned from a candlelight vigil to highlight the recent rash of violence plaguing the North Shore. The vigils were held simultaeneously across the North Shore at various locations. The one I attended, at St. Philips Baptist Church, was somber and heartening. There were prayers and hymns, scripture and fellowship. The only thing missing was the presence of people capable of the type of violence that has plagued our community. I'm not trying to discount the importance of our gathering, I do however question its effectiveness. Our goal should be to reach those who live on the other side of civility. The people that have trouble dealing with issues of day to day violence and infect the minds of those around them. This issue has moved beyond the combatants of this unholy war and has begun to touch the innocents. Our focus is to change what drives the violence, to teach acceptable ways of resolving conflict, and to focus our brothers and sisters efforts on something other than sneakers, rims, and clothes. The call has been repeated....parents KNOW your children, know their friends, know where they are and where they go, check their rooms, their myspace pages, and get to know your child. If your child is on the wrong side of the law, correct them!, if you need help, ASK....you will be surprised how many resources there are to help now....that prevent burial expenses later.

Praise for FOX NEWS Network, not so much for Rev. Jesse Jackson

First the praise- good choice attempting to withhold the full comments by Jesse Jackson during his open mic rant. Still don't know why, but trying to protect his reputation and the true cause of his efforts are admirable.

Jesse Jackson is no longer able to call himself a 'Civil Rights Leader' He has debased his viability, and become impotent to the public at large. Harsh? Of course it is! He knows that as a purported leader he is held to a higher standard. As such his use of racially charged language to describe the people he claims to support is unforgivable. Not by me, and not by God....but by his own message. He can no longer lead a fight against injustice....someone will forever bring this up....and they wont be wrong. He needs to step down immediately to preserve the organizations he founded, if not he is destined to drag them down and make them equally insignificant as he is now.

Rev Jackson RESIGN NOW!
What a difference a few hours makes

New African-American Leadership

The Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton reign of leadership is coming to an end. Not because they are no longer viable or necessary, but because their way of screaming into the camera while making backroom deals is not the way African-Americans need their leadership. We are in a position now to genuinely choose someone to speak for us...on the issues that affect us most. Not only can he speak to them, but he will soon be in a position to introduce some changes. The dynamics of discrimination have changed, it is time that the way we deal with it change as well. The old way has soured and been bastardized into something corporate. It has become more of a function of economics and less of laying bare the pure facts of each case. We're not done with Rev. Al and Rev. Jesse just yet...they still have a case or two left, but their time is certainly at hand.

Just when you think there is progress in race relations...

someone tosses a 1950's curve ball. An african American family was given the runaround and refused a room at a Clarion Hotel in Scranton,PA. Personally, I believe the hotel is liable for the damage and should pay the suit, BUT only as a measure of poor hiring practices. I don't believ it is a policy of the hotel, but rather an employees poor choice. That said it is unfathomable to believe that this still takes place in 2008. How many other families have passed through that lobby when she was on duty? How many may have slept in their cars, or had accidents on their way elsewhere if they were too tired. When will this stop?

http://www.courthousenews.com/2008/07/14/World_s_Second-Largest_Hotel_Chain_Wouldn_t_Rent_To_Black_Family_Man_Says.htm

Politicains are like Roosters

John the farmer was in the fertilized egg business.

He had several hundred young layers (hens), called 'pullets', and ten
roosters, whose job it was to fertilize the eggs.

The farmer kept records and any rooster that didn't perform went into
the soup pot and was replaced.

That took an awful lot of his time, so he bought a set of tiny bells
and attached them to his roosters.

Each bell had a different tone so John could tell from a distance,
which rooster was performing.

Now he could sit on the porch and fill out an efficiency report simply
by listening to the bells.

The farmer's favourite rooster was old Butch, a very fine specimen he was, too.

But, on this particular morning John noticed old Butch's bell hadn't
rung at all!

John went to investigate.

The other roosters were chasing pullets, bells-a-ringing.

The pullets, hearing the roosters coming, would run for cover.

But, to Farmer John's amazement, old Butch had his bell in his beak,
so it couldn't ring.

He'd sneak up on a pullet, do his job and walk on to the next one.

John was so proud of old Butch, he entered him in the Renfrew County
Fair and he became an overnight sensation among the judges.

The result...

The judges not only awarded old Butch the No Bell Piece Prize but they
awarded him the Pulletsurprise as well.

Why are Politicians like Roosters? Only a politician could win the greatest prizes in the land by learning to sneak up on you and screw you before you ever knew what happened!

Joke credit: http://jqfs.blogspot.com/2008/06/no-bell-piece-prize-and-pulletsurprise.html

North Shore Rail line could cost 1.4 Billion $$

Get it started already!
1.4 Billion? DO IT!! In the long run we will end up paying much more in health, congestion, and other costs associated with a lackluster public transportation system. The key is getting the job done, done right, and within budget. The MTA (or whichever agency is charged with refurbishing the line) needs ti institute a bonus for on-time, on budget work. This should be a city-wide standard. I would rather see projects re-appropriated and re-bid, than to see the enormous amount of waste that currently takes place on city projects. Of course we don't want the rail line to bring another building boom (we have had our fair share on the north shore), but the boost in values and attraction to some of the now empty buildings will improve the area. DO IT NOW!! (before the price goes up)

Why NOT to drill now

Conservation and alternative fuels have been allegedly in place since the '70s. The only reason there is any immediate pressure for real conservation efforts is the price of oil. While we are at this dramatic junction...let this crisis continue to propel us forward. The reason we never took conservation seriously was due to the availability of oil. If oil, through drilling, is again available, we will continue to spin our wheels until we reach exactly this position a few years from now ...only worse. We currently have sufficient technological expertise to stretch the available oil, AND produce serious alternatives to the point that we will be able to self sustain AND put off drilling until it is ABSOLUTELY necessary....right now it is just convenient NOT NECESSARY.

Martin Luther King Jr. & Republican Hypocritical Logic

The NBRA (National Black Republican Association) has launched a campaign against presumed Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama that is heavily laden with racist and elitist commentary. They apparently feel they can get away with it because it is a black organization.

see- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/06/30/black-republicans-launch_n_110042.html

The hypocrisy is that the NBRA is supporting a candidate that voted AGAINST the Martin Luther King Jr Holiday by invoking that Martin Luther King Jr. was a republican. John McCain voted AGAINST the MLK holiday even when most of his compatriots voted for it. To add insult to injury, he offers a response that is tantamount to being uninformed about the issue. Bottom line they are using racist smear by using the name of a man who dedicated his life against such action...now who is slapping who in the face.

I hope the NBRA is not looking for any new members soon!

Wesley Clark-American Hero vs John McCain-American Hero

During General Wesley Clark’s interview he NEVER demeaned McCain's service. His statement is true based solely on what he referred to in response to the question. McCain's shoot-down, capture, and POW status alone do NOT qualify him to be Commander in Chief. HOWEVER from a military experience standpoint McCain has the upper-hand where potential war strategy command decisions are concerned.

Too bad the number one issue is the economy, but you can't blame the republicans for trying. Their new strategy is to push terrorism and the fear of another American soil attack. I don't think they realize that they are shooting themselves in the foot. Prior to their new scare tactics campaign, the republicans were more than proud to state how much safer we are because they are watching the fence....are they trying to say they are going to let one through?

Military flight barnstorms N. Shore, Why are we so jittery?

uneccessarily jittery by my standards. If it was anything other than a planned barnstorming, what would you, or could you have done differently. The terrorists have us doing exactly what they want....shaking at every thunderclap, thinking its an attack at every turn. A car backfires and everyone goes into a panic, a manhole cover blows and its an attack, a trash track fire happens and everyone thinks they've been gassed. Yes we should have preparations and plans in place but the bottom line is that when a real attack is imminent you wont have a clue that it is coming or in what form. Better to live life trusting in God and enjoying every breath you take...don't let down your guard, but enjoy more and jump less.

Please support Rent Guidlines Board REFORM

The Following is a letter I received from Christine Quinn (City Council Speaker)

Dear Resident;

Last week the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) approved rent increases of up to 4.5 percent for one-year leases and up to 8.5 percent for two-year leases, effective October 1st.

Adding insult to injury, the board also approved - without any prior public discussion - a supplemental increase on tenants who have lived in their apartments for six years or more. Owners of buildings with such tenants will now have the option of charging them the approved increases, or a $45 monthly increase for one-year leases or $85 for two-year leases, whichever is greater. Essentially, this means that those with rents below $1,000 could be getting a higher increase.

The Council and I are extremely disappointed with the RGB's decision. Despite our loud and continued calls to refrain from any rent increases, it's clear that the RGB has grown increasingly callous and indifferent to the needs of real New Yorkers struggling to stay in their homes.

The residents of rent-stabilized apartments deserve a process that is more than just lip service from the RGB.

To ensure that we begin restoring faith in the RGB process from the ground up, I am pleased to report that Council Member Letitia James and I have co-sponsored a resolution in support of State Senator Tom Duane and Assembly Member George Latimer's Rent Guidelines Board Reform Bill (S.8235/A.11097).

This billmandates a number of important reforms to the RGB - changes that will make the process fairer for every resident living in a rent-stabilized apartment. These reforms include:

Changing the board's composition to 3 tenants members, 3 landlord members and 3 public members, ensuring real New Yorkers a greater voice in the decision-making process;
Expanding the qualifications for board members to include experience with affordable housing;
Requiring Council approval of Mayoral appointments;
Prohibiting landlords who fail to open their books to ask for or collect higher rents; and
Prohibiting rent increases for apartments with serious violations.

While the Rent Guidelines Board Reform Bill is an important first step toward fairer rents, what we really need is for the State to return power over rent regulations to New York City.

For too long we have been failed by the administrations in Washington and Albany, where Governor Pataki steadily worked to undermine rent protections over a dozen years.

With our strong support, legislation (S.1673/ A.4069) that would stop this trend in its tracks has been repeatedly passed by the State Assembly only to die in the State Senate. Passage of this measure into law would empower the Council to enact sweeping rent reforms. It's our city; we have a right to protect working families from unscrupulous landlords.

The Council and I will continue to aggressively call on the State Legislature to reform the RGB and return power over rent regulations to New York City. But in order to send the strongest possible message to Albany, we need your help.

Please contact your state representatives and urge them to pass the Rent Guidelines Reform Bill (S.8235/A.11097) and the local rent regulation bill (S.1673/ A.4069). Please also take a moment to share this information with your friends, neighbors or colleagues and encourage them to join us in the fight to save New York City's rent-stabilized apartments.

If you have any questions or concerns or would like to learn more about the Council's efforts to protect affordable housing, I invite you to contact Felix Palacios in the Council's Member Services Division at 212-788-0146.

Thank you.
Sincerely,

Christine C. Quinn
Speaker
New York City Council

In what adult situation is it okay to insult your guest?

The easy answer is during a roast...But that is not what I'm getting at. In an outlandishly stupid move, the President insulted the head of state of the Phillipines. The quote? "I am reminded of the great talent of the -- of our Philippine-Americans when I eat dinner at the White House." What a moron! This adds another clip to his almost endless blooper reel. Forget for a moment that he is the president, forget that he is the stolen leader of the free world, that comment should not have been made by ANYONE! to ANYONE!. But he is the president, and he is the stolen leader of the free world...and apparently he is an idiot!

Way to go Lou!

Lou Tobacco directs $156,000.00 to Project Hospitality.

For those that don't know Project Hospitality is at the forefront of the battle against homelessness, hunger, and the rights of all Staten Island inhabitants to to live peacefully. Reverend Terry Troia is a Saint on earth. I know these funds are much needed and will be put to good use. I also know that it will still take more to do the work God asks all of us to do.

18 High School Teens make Pregnancy Pact

The common thread throughout most of the media reports is that the pact was formed due to the fascination with Jamie-Lynn Spears and Ashlee Simpson. The 'blame', however, if any can be found, rests with all of us. The media doesn't choose the stories THEY want to present, they choose what WE demand. These girls , while influenced by the clamoring over the Spears/Simpson pregnancies, made their own decisions. They were woefully unprepared by their community, their families, and their nation...collectively known as 'the village'. There were times when these girls were not told or not convinced that their worth rested in their talent and potential for the future. Not enough people encouraged them to aspire to a greater existence...and they didn't encourage themselves. The other odd result is that what they claimed to be seeking they have now found. While their pictures are not plastered across the tabloids and posted on the web, in their communities, they are getting as much if not more attention than Jamie-Lynn or Ashlee. Though I can't help but believe it is not what they expected.

The File Room

By Joshua Harris
In that place between wakefulness and dreams, I found myself in the room. There were no distinguishing features save for the one wall covered with small index card files. They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject in alphabetical order. But these files, which stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endlessly in either direction, had very different headings.
As I drew near the wall of files, the first to catch my attention was one that read "People I Have Liked." I opened it and began flipping through the cards. I quickly shut it, shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one.
And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room with its small files was a crude catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn't match. A sense of wonder and curiosity, coupled with horror, stirred within me as I began randomly opening files and exploring their content. Some brought joy and sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching. A file named "Friends" was next to one marked "Friends I Have Betrayed."
The titles ranged from the mundane to the outright weird. "Books I Have Read," "Lies I Have Told", "Comfort I Have Given", "Jokes I Have Laughed At". Some were almost hilarious in their exactness: "Things I've Yelled at My Brothers." Other I couldn't laugh at: "Things I Have Done in My Anger", "Things I Have Muttered Under My Breath at My Parents". I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were many more cards than I expected. Sometimes fewer than I hoped. I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the life I had lived. Could it be possible that I had the time in my 20 years to write each of these thousands or even millions of cards?
But each card confirmed this truth. Each was written in my own handwriting. Each signed with my signature. When I pulled out the file marked "Songs I Have Listened To", I realized the files grew to contain their contents. The cards were packed tightly and yet after two or three yards, I hadn't found the end of the file. I shut it, shamed, not so much by the quality of music, but more by the vast amount of time I knew that file represented. When I came to a file marked "Lustful Thoughts", I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only and inch, not willing to test its size, and drew out a card. I shuddered at its detailed content. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded.
An almost animal rage broke on me. One thought dominated my mind: "No one must ever see these cards! No one must ever see this room! I have to destroy them!" In an insane frenzy I yanked the file out. Its size didn't matter now. I had to empty it and burn the cards.
But as I took it at one end and began pounding it on the floor, I could not dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it. Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot.
Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long, self- pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore "People I Have Shared the Gospel With". The handle was brighter than those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle and a small box not more than three inches long fell into my hands. I could count the cards it contained on one hand.
And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that the hurt started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. The rows of file shelves swirled in my tear-filled eyes. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key.
But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw Him. No, please not Him. Not here. Oh, anyone but Jesus. I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn't bear to watch His response. And in the moments I could bring myself to look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. He seemed to intuitively go to the worst boxes. Why did He have to read every one?
Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room. He looked at me with pity in His eyes. But this was a pity that didn't anger me. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn't say a word. He just cried with me. Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card. "No!" I shouted rushing to Him. All I could find to say was "No, no," as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn't be on these cards. But there it was, written in red so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written in His blood.
He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and began to sign the cards. I don't think I'll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, "It is finished." I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.
- End

READ EPHESIANS 9 - 11:15

What will the cards in your file room say?
How many cards will Jesus have to sign in His blood to cover you…more importantly have you done what is necessary for Jesus to even go to your file room.
What will you do when you finish reading this that will begin to write new cards?
How will you fill the ‘People I shared the Gospel with’ file drawer? Whatever thoughts or intentions you have, begin to think about how it will affect your file room if the same scene illustrated here happens to you.

I just added another card to my file, now it’s your turn. God Bless

Why do we need to legislate sound parenting?

When did it become socially acceptable to host a drinking party for your children and their friends. What message do we send them when we as parents go out on a limb to remain in THEIR good graces. ANY parent that does this, even if nothing happened before, should hang their head in shame for justifying giving alchohol to kids. In 2006 141 Children ages 16-20 were victims of fatal alcohol fueled crashes in New York State alone. The statistics, though declining over the years, are sad. More and more we have been hearing about parents that allow and even encourage their children to their first drink. More and more we are enacting laws that stiffen penalties for this behavior. It is a sad day in this country when the only way we can get people to act responsibly is to make it a law. There is hope however, this law if effective may save the life of one child...and if so, it is more than worth the effort.

see- http://www.silive.com/siadvance/stories/index.ssf?/bas
e/opinion/121370580319710.xml&coll=1

McCain cancels fundraiser but...

takes $300,000.00 anyway....where is the high moral ground...give it back and tell him what he can do with it. McCain cancelled a planned fundraiser after discovering that the host once compared rape to the weather....can't see the connection? He stated that “As long as it’s inevitable, you might as well lie back and enjoy it.” what a loser...

I Promise

As we navigate the pathways, highways and byways of life, we often find ourselves in the position to make promises. When we were young the promises were simple and often too easy to keep or on the opposite side: impossible to keep. You know those young promises;
we’ll be best friends forever,
I’ll be good in school,
and I’ll keep my room clean …well, from now on.

These promises were broken, not because they were impossible to keep. They were broken because the issue was just not important enough to us or too grand an idea or ideal or the promisee was not due the honor of our faithful fulfillment. This is not to judge right from wrong, nor to say that our words have no value, I’m just stating the way things are.

Then there came the opportunities to make more sincere, but still unrealistic young adult promises.
I’ll love you and only you forever,
I’ll study hard, I’ll graduate on time,
I’ll stop seeing that girl,
I’ll help you anytime you need it,
I’ll never look at another woman,
I’ll make you proud mommy,
I’ll make you proud Daddy….you’ll see….you’ll see.

Though these were also promises made with the best intentions, they were also promises all too often bent or broken.

Fast forward to mature adulthood. Here we still make some of those immature promises.
Promises to our doctors;
I’ll exercise more or I’ll smoke or drink less,
to the finance company; oh don’t worry I’ll pay this bill on time,
to our friends; we’ll never part no matter what.

But this is also the time in life when hopefully we have learned the breadth and depth of what a broken promise can do. The time where we have made some major, sincere, promises. Promises made with our signatures on official documents. Promises linked to our livelihood and our ability to support our families. And even promises made with a ring in front of friends and family. By now we may have already hurt someone or lost something due to some of the important promises we didn’t keep.

Why all this, you may be asking about promises and such. What does all this have to do with today and the situation we find ourselves in?

A part of me is glad you want to know. You see I made a promise. I made a promise without trying to appease someone, without trying to shut them up, without a long drawn out speech about flying pigs or ice cubes in Hades, without being duly sworn with my right hand raised, and without a signature connected to the threat of repossession or collections. I made a simple promise to a simple man. The words of that promise are not important now….but know that since the day I uttered it, I have kept it. Know that there is no force on this earth that will cause me to break it. Before you get to the edge of your seat in anticipation of hearing the words of that promise, don’t bother…it was between me, him, and God.

But back to the point, I can’t possibly be the only one in this room that made promises to my father. I know without knowing that promises have been made by his friends, by my brothers, by my sisters, by my nieces and nephews. Some of those promises I may have already spoke of. Think now about something you once promised him.

My charge to you today, to all of us is simply this; if there is a promise or even a list of promises you have made to my father, choose one and purpose in your heart that beginning this day you will keep it. It doesn’t matter how big or how small. It doesn’t matter if you only said it to keep him from bothering you about something, it doesn’t even matter what the reason you made the promise is. Just choose one and keep one. He deserves that and more from all of us. To those who never made a promise to him, choose one you made to someone you love and keep it. Purpose in your heart that to honor the type of life my father lead that you will keep just one promise. As for me don’t worry dad, I’ll keep mine….





Written and read by SINYPCRX
at the funeral of his father.

In the era of CHANGE politics

What is in store for McMahon's City Council seat?

Mitchell-more of the same, supported by developers.

Rose-opportunist entry, no real leadership.

Baker-represents real change, well known on North Shore, strong base.

Gowda-relative unknown, base too specific.

Marco-relative unknown, base too small.

While Mitchell has the most money (gleaned from developers to which he will be beholden), Rose hasn't done anything lately and doesn't appear to be taking the race seriuosly yet, Marco and Gowda though serious are not likely to be taken seriously...that leaves Baker. Though this is his first bid for political office he has a long standing record of service to the nation and the community. His campaign is grassroots supported with mostly community members and some health care professionals. As he doesn't have to answer to major donors, he will be our best chance for a council member that wants what we want- a better Staten Island. see http://www.bakerforcitycouncil.com

Open Season on Political Advisers

If you don't want anyone to know about your sweetheart real estate deal, or be reminded of your end run around trade prohibitions with Iran, then you might not want to be a major player in current politics. Its open season on anyone who moves close to McCain or Obama. If you have anything in your past that you are not particularly proud of ( and who among us really doesn't) then my advice is don't advise. Now that does leave our current candidates in a bit of a quandry... they now have to carefully choose people that will help them carefully choose people. I say, why not just skip to the good part, toss a few names to the media...in short order they will know what each person had for breakfast three years ago, the number of times they wore different colored socks, and whether they prefer cats or dogs and why. All this attention on whose political adviser is worse does not serve the public trust. There is far too much at stake in this election for all these minor distractions. Yes choosing an adviser with a spotty past may not show good judgement, but how do we expect to get anything done if as soon as the name is given, we find some obscure thing from their past, (that NO ONE was up in arms about prior to now) and use it to brow beat them until they quit. Let's give them a break...after all Pobodys Nerfect!

18 to 25? They think you wont show up in November

This isn't the first time in political history where we have seen an enthusiastic young voter bloc. In elections past the younger voters were whipped into a passionate frenzy regarding the importance of their presence in the process. Promises were made and many were broken.

I think this time will be different, but I don't have much company. You see both parties are counting on their young voters... counting on you not showing up. If this sounds like a challenge...its because it is. The other day while listening to commentary on who will be getting which voter block, the commentator had no shame in saying that on election day there would be a playstation tournament announced on campus and no young voters would show up at the polls. Another added that young voters have a history of getting involved, then not showing up when it counts. I say it is time to change that perception and rewrite history.

This is not a partisan challenge it is a civic challenge. The time has come for young people to be the voice that makes the difference.
If you are not registered - GO,
If you are not aware of the issues - FIND OUT,
If you are ready to be a part of one of the most important elections in history - VOTE!

Let your voice be heard, and change the course of history! The line has been drawn, CROSS IT!

Internet Politics - Good?, Bad? Ugly!

The internet has played an increasing role in our daily lives, but none more important than the spread of news practically instantaneously and the latest side effect - an indellible memory. The internet remembers what you said, when you said it, who was there and any other host of variables.
This political season has brought out both the good and the bad roles the internet plays in politics. Campaigns have raised millions with a few mouse clicks, messages and intentions are crystal clear and in writing on candidate websites. On the bad side, rumors smears and innuendo have spread faster than wildfires uphill. Digging for the truth, while cumbersome, has proven doable for those who genuinely seek it. The ugly side is that the net continues to show that there are still sections and people in this, the greatest nation on earth, that are filled with hatred and animosity towards their fellow citizenry. Reflectively that can be construed to be a good thing too. I would rather know that people have these feelings against whites, blacks, immigrants and others. I would rather know that I may be treated differently by some people because of religiuon or sexual identity. We have come so far in this country, yet everyday I am reminded of how far we have to go. The best part of all that goes on on the internet is those who know better and refuse to be a part of the hatred. To them I raise a glass. Cheers!

How does John McCain reward loyalty?

After waiting for him for 5 1/2 years, and having a horrible auto accident, McCain's first wife had to put up with his philandering ways ...and then the reward ... he dumped her.

Is this what voter ID laws are for?

Perhaps no one knows that as well as 97-year-old Shirley Freeda Preiss. She was born at home in Clinton, Kentucky in 1910, before women had the right to vote, and never had a birth certificate. Shirley has voted in every presidential election since FDR first ran in 1932, and proudly describes herself as a "died-in-the-wool Democrat." After living in Arizona for two years, she was eagerly looking forward to casting her ballot in the February primary for the first major woman candidate for President, Hillary Clinton. But lacking a birth certificate or even elementary school records to prove she's a native-born American citizen, the state of Arizona's bureaucrats determined that this former school-teacher who taught generations of Americans shouldn't be allowed to vote.
"I have a constitutional right to vote, don't I?" she asks with her soft Southern drawl. "I didn't get to vote because of a birth certificate. What am I going to do now?"

Her strong-willed 78-year-old son, Nathan "Joey" Nemnich, a World War II veteran, is infuriated. "I'm pissed. She's an American citizen who worked her whole life and I want her to vote," he says. He went down to the local Motor Vehicle Division to get her an Arizona ID and register her to vote, armed with copies of his mother's three drivers' licenses from her previous home in Texas, along with copies of her Social Security and Medicare cards. All that wasn't good enough for the state of Arizona. "The sons of bitches are taking away our Constitution," Nemnich says.

In Arizona and now as seems likely in Missouri, Kafkaesque rules blend with right-wing ideology to block American citizens like Shirley Preiss from voting, collateral damage in the Republican-led war on democracy. "I was very disappointed," she says of the state's roadblocks to voting. "It's not acceptable. I've always voted."

taken from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/art-levine/after-id-ruling-missouri_b_101261.html

Michelle Obama Tape Investigated

After extensive tracking down of the original source, review of the facts and investigation into the venue, attendees, and purpose, of the conference where the alleged racial rant was said to have occured the findings point to one conclusion... IT IS A LIE

see - http://www.reason.com/blog/show/126883.html

Bravo Hillary...bravo!

Your eloquent and carefully chosen words have secured your place in history. You have shown yourself to be more than deserving of respect. There is still an enormous amount of work ahead of us, and we look forward to working alongside your supporters and getting for them their needs and wishes met as we take this country where many thought it could never go... into a future of prosperity, accountability, justice and honor. Together we will return this country from the shadow of its former glory to a new chapter in history. In Novemeber the White House will be back in Democratic hands and the country will be back on track. Bravo Hillary...bravo!

Hillary's words will determine many futures

As Hillary takes the stage tomorrow, the words and body language she chooses to use will decide the atmosphere for the next few months. Her words and expressions will determine if Obama has to argue against McCain and the 'ghost' of Hillary or if there will truly be a coming together. She alone will make her mark as a woman of principle by doing what she said she would if he won - supporting a democratic White House. Should she falter or her body language portray even the slightest disengenuity, it will make Obama's job against McCain more difficukt and additionally put the final nail in the coffin for any hope of a political future for any Clinton (Yes I believe the sins of the mother will be visited upon the daughter AND she does have a political future as of now).

Obama - Clinton '09 not now, not ever!

There is more than the past history of a long and well fought primary season to consider here. Up until the last days of her campaign although Hillary no longer directly attacked Barack, she did stand firm in her zeal for 'her' health plan and continuously noted their differences. How could you effectively put together an administration when there are so many strong differences between them on day one. He would have to convince her to go along with his plans, she would still be somewhat beholden to lobbyists that supported her. How could she objectively participate in policy discussions when in the back of her mind she may be trying to figure how she can repay her supporters? Barack does not have this issue, the only supporters he is beholden to are the American voters. The ultimate decision is his, but if I were his counsel, my vote would be an emphatic NO!

To all the HARDCORE HILLARY fans that stated the would not vote or vote for McCain... the time has come to bury your differences and ensure a Democratic White house and Administration in 2009. Its going to be done with or without you, but I'm not so assured as not to believe that your support is needed.

As for the others that simply cannot bring themselves to vote for an African-American President, tell your children the story of how you supported a party and an ideal your entire life, but just couldn't get past the color of a man's skin. I'm sure they will ask you why....good luck with an explanation that they'll believe and support you on. Don't wonder what is wrong with them, wonder what is wrong with you.

What to do when your Clinton wont behave...

When you have a child, and your child stomps and whines in the toy store, do you give in?

When you have a dog, and the dog keeps pooping the carpet, do you ignore it?

When you have a car, and it doesn't perform as expected, do you keep it?

when you have a boyfriend (or girlfriend) that does stupid things in public, do you put up with it?

my point is not to disrespect our senator. She does her job for NY and merits respect. My point is Florida and Michigan broke the rules. There must be a penalty. The penalty must be fair.



In my opinion the penalty was not fair, it should have been what was threatened, BUT that is what the DNC rules and by-laws committee decided, and as a registered democrat, I accept. Why can't she accept it. To take this issue even one step further makes all the jokes and talk of 'by any means necessary' seem true. At this point she must realize she has no hope. I don't really want her to quit, I want her to be beaten , even on her own terms. A continuation of the division of the party could cost us the election. If she continues, there is no crossing back over the bridge. The Clinton legacy ends with this act. Go, and go quietly Hillary. You did your best, but it wasn't good enogh. Better luck next time. (never again!)

Rules are rules...except

when changing the rules benefits the Clinton Dynasty. Lets just be clear. Hillary Clinton did not decided to move up the primary in Florida or Michigan...neither did Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton didn't set the rules regarding the penalty for changing the date...neither did Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton agreed to the rules set forth by the DNC...and so did Barack Obama. When you are part of a group that sets and agrees to rules, your operation outside of those rules is ignored. People lets not forget that this is NOT the general election, these are party elections. While party elections are important the word disenfranchisement is not really a part of the equation. Now I'm not so unreasonable as to want the innocent citizens of Florida and Michigan to feel left out, but in THIS case is there really any REASONABLE solution? A reasonable solution would address three points: fairness to the candidates, fairness to the constituency (all states including Fl and MI), and most importantly fairness to the future as in what happens next time? I don't pretend to have the answer, but whatever happens SOMEONE is not going to be happy.

Hillary continues to suffer

from foot in mouth disease. Now before anyone takes this post south let me be clear...No sane, reasonable, level-headed person can possibly believe that she was giving the secret go signal for an Obama assassination (or any other insideous wishful thinking)...HOWEVER while her choice of reference was on point, her choice of wording was way off...dare I say - unfortunate.

Staten Island is still a great place to raise kids

As a lifelong Staten Islander (post Verrazano)Staten Island is still the lesser of 5 evils. I love living here and wouldn't have it any other way. I have visited other countries and some other states, but I find raising my kids here to be fulfilling. One note I would make: The governing factor behind the quality of life for individual families and how well they raise their children, rests with their values. That is to say you can raise children well just about anywhere when you maintain a strong family ethic.

Join the SLACKTIVISM movement

Become a slacktivist in three easy steps;
1. complain alot
2. spend inordinate amounts of time in online forums
3. be passionate about your views ...
but ultimately do nothing

Just in case you think McCain is 'presidential material'

take a look at this video posted on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEtZlR3zp4c

Seems as though double-speak is the new preferred language of the Republican Party!

ATTENTION Staten Island Democrats!

Do not take Vito Fossella's decision not to run as a signal for a free-for-all. It is important at this time that we stand behind the candidates that WE put out front to defeat Vito. There will be more than enough issues at stake trying to get a democrat into the seat in the first place without having to split the party up over who will be the best candidate. The Republican stronghold can be broken, the demographics have changed and people have grown weary of SSDD. Now is the time for unity!

Don't do it Barack!

Don't give Hillary the 'payoff' unless she
a.-wholeheartedly throws her support behind you, and
b. promises NOT to ask for the VP slot.
You can let her be Secretary of State (may as well put all that 'experience' and moxie to work for good).

Staten Island Views Endorses

Steve Harrison for Congress '09. Go to his website; http://www.steveharrisonforcongress.com/ , check out his views and other endorsements, then donate to his campaign to make a difference, and return dignity to the 13th District.

Vito did not have 'bad luck' and it was no accident

A three year plus run of bad luck? No that accident, took work to keep under wraps. Like it or not Vito was having the time of his life shtupping two women at the same time. It was not bad luck, he got caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He stood on a soapbox and exhorted virtuous values all the while he was laughing in our faces. Only a moron would support him now. It is shameful how people still fall over themselves to kiss his boots. Staten Island will be the laughing stock of the city WHEN this clown gets re-elected.

Confederate Flag T-shirt

The issue in reality is not the flag or its relevance in history or relationship to slavery. From an administrative standpoint, the school has not taken a stance. The boy in this case is the victim, and the hecklers are the aggressors. Both the mother AND the young man have admitted that the shirt is the likley source. My point is, as a parent, if ANYTHING affects my childs grades, I would try to change the source. Nether the school nor this story is likely to change the feelings of the offenders. Shaun: Wear the shirt when your grades improve, wear it at home, wear it to the mall. Don't allow anyone to surpress your freedom of expression. LIKEWISE don't let anything get in the way of your education. As for your mother, she has to understand that she will NOT obtain satisfactory results from the school administration. Any action that comes from the school will result in the school recommending that he no longer wear the shirt. Is it fair? no, but there is so much more going on in school that is more important. Good luck.

Staten Island Views Endorses

Tony Baker for City Council 2009 go to http://www.bakerforcitycouncil.com and contribute to this historic campaign.

Thats the first question; How has Staten Island managed to remain the only borough in New York to have never elected an African American to office?

Why?

I guess I should state my purpose... I want to give readers an insiders view from my unique perspective of life on Staten Island's North Shore. I obviously will infuse my musings with my personal experiences, life knowledge and a dash of cynicism, or pessimism, and possibly (or hopefully) optimism. I was born in West Brighton, I have lived in New Brighton and Port Richmond. Now I live in Mariner's Harbor. I have lived in the projects, and I have owned the most expensive house on my block. My diverse background, my familiarity with the Staten Island lifestyle, and my connection (and love) with Staten Island will help you see what I see and feel what I feel. Read on...

more me for now

I guess you may need a little more to keep you interested. Here is the long short of me. I have been a McKee Vocational & Technical High School Graduate, A Nuclear Operator in the United States Navy, A supermarket manager, A Kirby Home Cleaning System salesman, A tile and flooring salesman, a bodega manager, a small retail cellular sales; computer sales & service business owner, An installation technician for CVS Drug stores, IMAC Coordinator for New Jersey & Lead IMAC Coordinator for the US under contract with Hewlett Packard for JPMorgan Chase, a Junior Designer for Consolidated Edison of New York, and currently a Construction Supervisor for Consolidated Edison.



The youngest Steward ever appointed to the board of Shiloh AME Zion Church, an Ordained Deacon in St. Philip's Baptist Church.



I am the father of 6 ranging in age from 17 to 18 months. And another 'daughter' from a previous marriage (she's 22)



I have been to France, Italy, Spain, Israel, Germany, Egypt, The Carribean, and The US Virgin Islands. I have spent time (in the military) in Great Lakes, Il; Orlando, Fl; and Saratoga Springs, NY.

New To This

We all have to start somewhere, so here I go. You are likely not to find too much interesting here. I did just finished my first website design for my Pastor. He is running for City Council of New York. The site is at http://www.bakerforcitycouncil.com/ you should check it out.