Staten Island Views

We are ready now...why weren't we ready then?

2011-08-27T12:44:00.006-04:00

I realize this may not be the right time, but it is burning me right now. In the leadup to hurricane Katrina, there was confusion, misdirected orders, last-minute changes, breakdowns in security, communication, and preparedness... the result was that many people died.

Why do we have to wait for deaths to make proper preparations for what most agree is possible and even probable.

Now, as hurricane Irene heads north, we are more prepared than ever AND disaster relief has been pre-positioned, the military has been called up, the mayor is actively,personally informing the people...all of it appreciated, all of it valuable, all of it likely to save thousands of lives, and even mitigate some resultant property damage...but to me, right now, the cost was just....too high.

It's "Just a Toy""

2010-10-11T06:56:00.003-04:00

The phrase boys love their toys has been somewhat misused over time. Once a simple phrase to relate to how young men don’t easily separate from the toys of their youth, it now includes all manner of objects; cars, tools, and (sorry ladies) women. As the title suggests, I have held on, rather tightly, to one of the toys of my not-so-distant past- Buzz Lightyear of Disney’s Toy Story fame. I purchased “Buzz” at the height of the original Toy Story craze with the hope of squirreling him away for a few decades, until some future collector decides he would be willing to pay handsomely for him.

My Buzz was kept in his original packaging and untouched by human hands since the date of purchase. Buzz spent time in my first solo apartment, the basement of the first home I ever purchased, and until recently the bedroom closet. When I moved, unlike the dilemma he experienced in the first Toy Story movie, Buzz moved. He became a fixture that I had to explain from time to time as he was discovered in his various hiding places. Visiting children and even my own children asked to hold him, “just for a minute”, but the answer was always the same-no. He was a collector’s item, an investment.

In truth, Buzz had become more than his future value to me. I related to him as he attempted to prove to his friends that he was real. I had often felt that I always had to prove that I was who I said I was. My words weren’t enough; I had to show them that I really could fly. My disappointment didn’t materialize into acceptance that I was “just a toy”, rather I accepted that I didn’t have to prove anything to anyone; I just had to be me.

Old things becoming new again, at five, my son is infatuated with Toy Story 3. During a trip to the toy store, he wouldn’t leave without a six-inch Buzz Lightyear action figure. He was beyond ecstatic. An errant glance into my closet sealed whatever deal (or remaining youthful attachment) I had for Buzz. You see, his Mommy didn’t share my sense of investment, or the value of an untouched, un-played with toy. She gave it to him while I was at work, hoping to return it to its proper place. Enter my daughter, the 3 year-old who likes to shred boxes like a late night stock handler. Too late to repair, I have resigned to giving Buzz to Malcolm, and I have to admit, I enjoy watching him play with it more than I would have enjoyed the profit from his sale. After all it is “just a toy”.

Can we can expect some actual violence this election....

2010-10-06T08:47:00.001-04:00

In the lead up to the midterms, the most repeated word to describe the constituency is angry. People are angry about Health Care reform, entitlements, do nothing politicians and do too much politicians. Some feel powerless and are genuinely frustrated with all of what goes on in Washington. But I believe their numbers are far fewer than media has represented. In truth the largest part of the voting age public is actually apathetic to who is claiming to be in charge and who looks forward to being in charge. The squabbles for political points, gotchas, and pandering have the majority of Americans flatly disinterested.
If we just look at those who are interested we find a few factions...Party Loyalists, Civic Duty voters, genuine (small i) independents, the first (well second) timers, and the Activists...those that are very impassioned about their vote, and their views. The super liberals, especially those upset with arguably the most liberal President ever elected, will grudgingly vote this midterm, and there is no doubt that Tea Partiers and super conservatives will be out en masse, so where will the violence come from?
There are individuals that have been so stirred by the rhetoric and whose values are already on such shaky civic ground that this election is likely to push them over the edge. The 3-second loop of the Black Panthers intimidating voters...in a majority Black district (not that it matters) will be replicated from the opposite side of the color spectrum this election day...and quite frankly, they probably wont be as nice. There are already small stories cropping up around the country about citizens organizing to confront voters at the polls and (illegally) demand identification. The ever-present spectre of voter fraud will rear its ugly head once more with tall tales of busloads of voters going from poll to poll to cast multiple votes throughout multiple counties (who has time for that?). At some point in time during the day, whether due to a broken machine, an untrustworthy poll attendant, misinterpretation, misrepresentation, or misunderstanding...violence may happen.
But in Richmond County we can relax, we know it won't happen here, not in the only county in the nation to experience election night violence on the evening of an historic election... right?

The New Political Strategies

2010-09-21T10:16:00.000-04:00

Lie, Avoid, Deny, Attack the character of the accuser, and Dismiss. These are the key word to Tea Party/Republican’s campaign strategy going into the mid-term elections. In years past, any candidate would give his/her right arm for national presence and the opportunity to present their views on the national stage. How did we arrive at candidates running from cameras and refusing interviews? How did we arrive at bigots coming within a stone’s throw of major state office? How did we arrive at otherwise reasonable people willing to follow certifiably nutty candidates?
The press will tell you that the constituency is angered, incensed, and not going to take it anymore. They are so mad they are willing to cut off their noses to spite their faces…and candidates KNOW IT! So rather than present a level measured view to how to correct the issues of the day using either right or left wing principles, we are instead talking about witchcraft. We are talking about a candidate that wants to wean his own mother off of Social Security and reduce her Medicare benefits. We are considering candidates that would force a woman to have the child of a rapist or an family member in cases of incest. People proclaiming to want to change the fiscal responsibility in Washington, are themselves fiscally irresponsible. People that claim to represent the best in American values are enjoying the company of prostitutes, Brazilian lovers, and rented boys. People who decide how government will spend our taxes don’t pay their own. The press keeps saying people are angry…you ask the man on the street, he says he has heard that people are angry…people are angry, people are angry…if you say it often enough, and repeat it every news cycle, it becomes thee standard. If you tell people to go to a meeting and shout down the opposition-because they are angry…well you see the results. This isn’t political discourse, its Junior High School schoolyard shenanigans… barely worthy of mention. But just as sex sells, so does anger and reporters continue to look for the hottest buttons to draw the reader/viewer without regard for the fallout.
The other emotion about to determine who drives the car is fear. We are trying to scare common folks with exotic tales of madrassas, Kenyans, birth certificates, Black Liberation Theology – which most people can’t even define, death panels, draconian gun control, government collusion in 9/11, government takeover of your very ability to breathe, the death of marriage, international vendettas as cause for war, un-American presidents, and lying presidents. Up until now, the right has had complete control over the fear button… but that’s about to change.
The only chance Democrats will have this mid-season is to take control of the fear button and press it hard until November 2nd. Without debating the merits of using fear to incite the constituency, there simply is no other way. Poll after poll shows that the electorate is not satisfied with the first two years of Obama’s administration…wow, what have we come to when a president that has arguably accomplished more in two years than any other, is summarily dismissed as having done too much, not having done enough, over shot the mark, under shot the mark and done nothing, ALL AT THE SAME TIME!
Some Democrats, and more importantly the Independents that voted for change in 2008, are unaware or apathetic to what is about to happen during the midterms. The sea change of the congress will have one, and only one effect on governance – There will e NO governance. In the past, when one side wanted a program or a tax cut or whatever… they would negotiate the merits of their idea while providing some benefit to the other side, that’s over. The negotiation would continue until most settled on a result acceptable to both parties… I think they call it compromise (haven’t seen any of that since the brother took the reins), that’s over now. Well if it didn’t happen before in the 60 or no Senate, you can bet your last dollar that it will never happen now- THAT is something to be feared. America cannot afford a stalemated government, we can’t afford a purely liberal government and we can’t afford a purely conservative government. What has worked, and what will work best for ALL Americans is a balanced approach…social services AND tax cuts, individual liberty AND freedom of expression, a strong Military AND a solid Education system. I don’t know when this cycle of extremes will end, but until it does, or until politicians learn to act sensibly, rather than appealing to their base in the interest of keeping their jobs, the stalemate will continue and the ONLY people that will suffer, is the American people, the American ideal, and many American Dreams.

2010-01-16T13:48:00.001-05:00

Haiti NEEDS our help....

...except win the Nobel Peace Prize!

2009-10-09T07:56:00.002-04:00

Less than a week after Saturday Night Live satirically spoofed the president's record of accomplishment, painting a laughable picture of a zero sum total, it appears there is one accomplishment no one expected;

Why is everyone so upset? He hasn't done anything yet.

2009-10-08T09:28:00.002-04:00

This is funny enough to share although admittedly tragic if it continues...

45,000 Die Yearly for a lack of health care....

2009-10-07T22:48:00.003-04:00

that's one every 12 minutes...

read the following abstract from the Harvard Study:

Objectives. A 1993 study found a 25% higher risk of death among uninsured compared with privately insured adults. We analyzed the relationship between uninsurance and death with more recent data.

Methods. We conducted a survival analysis with data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We analyzed participants aged 17 to 64 years to determine whether uninsurance at the time of interview predicted death.

Results. Among all participants, 3.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]=2.5%, 3.7%) died. The hazard ratio for mortality among the uninsured compared with the insured, with adjustment for age and gender only, was 1.80 (95% CI=1.44, 2.26). After additional adjustment for race/ethnicity, income, education, self- and physician-rated health status, body mass index, leisure exercise, smoking, and regular alcohol use, the uninsured were more likely to die (hazard ratio=1.40; 95% CI=1.06, 1.84) than those with insurance.

Conclusions. Uninsurance is associated with mortality. The strength of that association appears similar to that from a study that evaluated data from the mid-1980s, despite changes in medical therapeutics and the demography of the uninsured since that time.

Health Insurance and Mortality in US Adults

Andrew P. Wilper 1*, Steffie Woolhandler 2, Karen E. Lasser 2, Danny McCormick 2, David H. Bor 2, David U. Himmelstein 2

1 University of Washington School of Medicine
2 Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School

We are literally locked in a life and death struggle... people without adequate health care cannot afford to live...literally.

These invisible numbers are our neighbors, our former classmates, our friends, and relatives... one day....maybe even ourselves. One every 12 minutes. My question is simple...to the right; not who will pay, not government fear mongering, not anti-Obama rhetoric, not liberal vs. conservative...I am asking a simple question...a human question...and here it is:

Is it okay for people to die in this country simply for a lack of adequate health care?

An Open letter to Congressman Michael McMahon

2009-10-06T11:29:00.000-04:00

I would like to begin by thanking you for having the courage to hold the town hall meeting. I’m relatively sure it met your expectations. The purpose of this letter is to let you know where I stand, unlike many of those that attended last night’s town hall, I voted for you. I voted for you as my Congressman, and I voted for you as my councilman. I will be voting for you again in 200, and my vote is NOT conditional, short of a major moral disaster.

I am a Staten Islander. I have lived on the North Shore my entire life. I have personally been on EVERY side of this issue. As the son of a single parent, my mother went on welfare for a short period. When she got work, and joined the union, our health care got better too. When she changed jobs, and went to work with a less powerful union, we were practically no better off than when she was on welfare. I joined the service, and enjoyed the best health care our country has to offer (probably even better than the care you now receive). When I returned from the service, I went without any insurance for a considerable amount of time. Luckily, I was still healthy, and short of a simple bloody nose that wouldn’t stop, I didn’t need emergency health care. I ran my own business for 5 years with 6 employees…providing zero benefits. I worked as a consultant, where there were no benefits, even as I started a family. I now work for a company where I started out in the union, so I have seen that side, with the constant bargaining that ALWAYS results in increased costs, and fewer benefits. I am now a part of management, so I see the other side of the fence. I say all of this to let you know that I am familiar with EVERY SIDE of the issue you now face. I have kept up with most of the issues regarding the proposed health care legislation, and I have come to a conclusion.

I support health care reform. I support reform that includes a public option (knowing that I will help foot that bill). I support future reasonable tort reform. I support a plan that is deficit neutral. I support a plan that does NOT adversely affect the current care our seniors are receiving. I support a plan that may be PURCHASED by illegal aliens, similar to the way it is now. I support a plan that mandates coverage (however, with fines & without the threat of prison). I support a plan that covers every American. I support a plan that removes stipulations regarding pre-existing conditions.

And I hope you do too.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, I look forward to your affirmative vote for Health Care reform.

One of God's greatest gifts...

2009-09-01T22:07:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentleman; one of God's greatest gifts bestowed upon man is the ability to think for himself. Please use the gift He gave you. Of late, I have heard just about every conceivable twist of the truth with regard to our government, their intentions for us, and the fear that is pervading what little racial/ethnic progress we have made over the years. If you have a stance on Health Care reform, taxation, or the current administration in power, by all means, voice YOUR opinion, stand on your soapbox and shout to the heavens. By all means, write your elected officials and let them know what YOUR position is. By all means, send money to organizations that support your views and have the means to spread YOUR opinion. BUT, it detracts from the value of your position when you include with your opinion extraneous, unecessary messages of hate and dissention. It is a pure fact that Health Care reform, for example, is going to be extremely expensive. That is a valid argument against reform. HOWEVER when the person who feels that way is displaying a swastika or shouting down informed debate, no one hears the valid message. It pains me when some of my "intelligent" friends use word for word conservative talking points or the latest scare rumor in their debate. There is sooo much that is both wrong and right with Health Care reform that the plans can be thoughtfully debated for days. Think for yourself, read what you can find, read the bills, but after you read, form YOUR opinion and be prepared to defend it.

How does the Religious "Right" contend with Hypocrisy

2009-08-20T12:15:00.002-04:00

Many conservatives are ready and willing to invoke "their" god when it comes to matters of political discourse. Abortion, School Prayer, and vouchers (yes they relate here), bring out the love of god in a conservative faster than you can blink. But, just try mentioning immigration, and social programs that help the needy, and they suddenly develop spiritual amnesia. The God that I know, says to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. The God I know says to treat our neighbors as we would ourselves. Is it not the same God (god)? Why when challenged with what they profess to believe do they suddenly throw up their hands? Is it guilt? Is it shame? I think we all kniow that is not the case. Lastly, the God I know asks that He be served in spirit and in truth...and there is something to be said for His abjorration of lukewarm servants.

Limbaugh Blames Obama for Sanford's Affair

2009-06-27T19:35:00.002-04:00

Oh you did read that correctly. In what can only be labeled weird but true, Rush Limbaugh took time on his radio show to lay the blame for Mark Sanford's Argentinian affair. Here is how it was covered by Keith Olbermann;

Now the first candidate to wrap a large part of his campaign and subsequent administration around "hope" is actually trying to destroy hope? Get real Rush, you are becoming less and less relavent and starting more and more to sound like a buffoon. The only thing hopeless in America is you.

She went too far, now she has to pay...

2009-04-23T08:59:00.002-04:00

Those of us who are parents have been there. We know the pressure of a long day, and just as you are at your wits end, a fight breaks out between the kids. You say stop 7 or 8 hundred times to no avail. You look for something to throw or you threaten them with severe bodily harm to no avail. You threaten to put them out of the car, and that doesn't work either...but you pull over for added emphasis...still no luck? How about open the door...by now, most kids are quiet. For whatever reason, Madlyn Primoff, 45, a partner in a Manhattan law firm, took it a step further and really put them out. Her daughters aged 12 and 10 were left on the sidewalk 3 miles from home. The 12 year old ran after the car, so the mother let her in. The 10 yr old wasn't fast enough. The mother was arrested when she appeared at the police station to recover her 'lost' child.

This is not the first, nor will it be the last case of a parent losing control, and taking measures so drastic they defy logic. We have to keep things in perspective when dealing with our children, and remember that nothing they do, is worth endangering their lives. This woman learned that lesson the hard way, but it gives us an opportunity to reflect and cool off when we find ourselves approaching the breaking point. Now go hug the little curtain climbers, even if they were bad today!

Fear wins (again) over common sense.

2009-04-03T03:54:00.003-04:00

The latest bruhaha to grip the Island is the cell tower scam at Our Lady Star of the Sea School in Huguenot. Parents are threatening to pull their children out, the school is installing steel gates over the windows (fire code anyone?), and local politicians are about to weigh in with the hope of gaining some political momentum. Hogwash! All of it. I worked in the nuclear power field, I wore a REM tag, It was read and measured evry month. I have produced (ok women, helped produce) five vibrant healthy children without a single defect (other than some attitude), so give it a rest...the amount of "radiation" emitted is negligible compared to other daily common sources. Watching TV is more dangerous. Once again fear reigns supreme on Staten Island, the stupidest comment ever was by some woman who was interviewed, when asked how she knows that the radiation amount is dangerous, she replied,"they can't prove that it isn't". Don't we realize that these towers are everywhere?What?!?! We are still doing things we already have proven are dangerous, but we keep doing it (smoking comes to mind). The latest 'cause celebre' will be taken up by whichever politician is closest to re-election and this will dominate the news but to no avail. Unless of course those same parents are willing to pay Sprint (and T-mobile coming soon) to break those contracts. I didn't think so.

Why?

2009-03-29T20:56:00.003-04:00

LEADERSHIP
1. the position or function of a leader:
2. ability to lead: She displayed leadership potential.
3. an act or instance of leading; guidance; direction: They prospered under his leadership.
4. the leaders of a group: The union leadership agreed to arbitrate.

Synonyms: administration, authority, capacity, command, conduction, control, conveyance, direction, directorship, domination, foresight, hegemony, influence, initiative, management, power, preeminence, primacy, skill, superiority, sway

Personal Touch: In my opinion, the skill and ability to influence others, whether directly or indirectly, to perform at or above their potential.

INTEGRITY
1. adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.
2. the state of being whole, entire, or undiminished
3. a sound, unimpaired, or perfect condition

Synonyms: candor, forthrightness, goodness, honesty, honorableness, incorruptibility, incorruption, principle, probity, purity, righteousness, sincerity, straightforwardness, virtue

Personal Touch: In my opinion, integrity means always doing the right thing, the same way, whether you are being watched or not. Strength is added to the term by preceding it with the word personal.

HONOR
1. honesty, fairness, or integrity in one's beliefs and actions: a man of honor.
2. a source of credit or distinction: to be an honor to one's family.
3. high respect, as for worth, merit, or rank: to be held in honor.
4. such respect manifested: a memorial in honor of the dead.
5. high public esteem; fame; glory: He has earned his position of honor.

Synonyms: account, adoration, adulation, aggrandizement, apotheosis, approbation, attention, canonization, celebration, confidence, consideration, credit, deference, deification, dignity, distinction, elevation, esteem, exaltation, faith, fame, fealty, glorification, glory, greatness, high standing, homage, immortalization, laud, laurel, lionization, notice, obeisance, popularity, praise, prestige, rank, recognition, renown, reputation, repute, reverence, tribute, trust, veneration, worship, wreath

Personal Touch: In my opinion, honor can not be learned; it must be instilled, nurtured, and revered as an individual standard in order for it to have any value. It is an all or none prospect.

COURAGE
1. the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.

Synonyms: adventuresomeness, adventurousness, audacity, backbone, bravery, bravura, daring, dash, dauntlessness, determination, endurance, enterprise, fearlessness, firmness, fortitude, gallantry, gameness, grit, guts, hardihood, heroism, intrepidity, lion-heartedness, mettle, nerve, pluck, power, prowess, pugnacity, rashness, recklessness, resolution, spirit, spunk, stoutheartedness, temerity, tenacity, valor, venturesomeness, élan

Personal Touch: In my opinion, this definition is not entirely correct. I believe fear is an integral part of courage, as courage cannot exist where there is no fear. Additionally more needs to be said about the differences between foolhardy courage and genuine bravery.

Forgive the length, but this post is not intended to be an English lesson, and I am well aware that most of us have a fair handle on what each of these words means. This minor civics lesson is a friendly reminder about how absent these words are from our daily vernacular. Worse still is their absence from our personal life toolboxes. How often do we see these words in genuine action? How many people do we know that regularly exhibit these qualities? How many of us have a list of friends that may describe us using these words?

It is important that these life qualities never be given in any self-description. A large part of the value of these qualitiess is gained by having another person use them to describe someone. When used in self-description not only do the words lose value, but one begins to question the user as well. Adding insult to injury, the user ends up appearing vain in the process, a quality that does not mix well with the others.

To the question at hand: why not? Why aren’t these qualities as sought after as they were in the past? Why aren’t they more regularly exhibited by the people we know that have the opportunity to exhibit them? Has our society changed so much, that these are no longer required? What makes someone with the position, power, and ability; strike these qualities from use? I make many posts here, most about current events, or something that bothers me or moves me to write. I am so moved today, but today is different, because today I have questions. The questions I have require thoughtful input from reasonable people. If you are up to the challenge, feel free to respond with your thoughts. Why?

Prosecution Gone WILD!

2009-03-29T01:50:00.002-04:00

see http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/news/090326_NJ_Teen_Arrested_After_Posting_Nude_Pics for more...

In yet another case of impulsive prosecution, the Passaic County Sherriff has arrested and charged a 14 year old girl with distribution of child pornography. The victim in this case is the same 14 year old girl. Of course they don't publish her name....she is too young. But that leads me to my point, she is too young to have her name and face plastered all over the news, but not too young to go to jail for 17 years and be registered as a sex offender? Let's be clear, what she did was wrong, and I'm relatively sure a bunch of kids ran home to delete some of their pictuires after hearing the story, but thats it. Doesn't intent play into any of this? She is not some 50 year old man in a wife beater trolling the internet, or trying to meet youngsters at the mall. This is a kid doing the stupid, sometimes illegal, things that kids often do. Yes, make a big deal of it...yes scare the pants off..(bad analogoy)...., but to mark this child with a scarlet letter for the rest of her life is unnecessary, and over the top. I was happy to hear later in the day that the charges would not be filed.

I don't get, why they don't get it.

2009-03-25T02:53:00.003-04:00

They didn't get it in 2006, they certainly didn't get it in 2008, and they still just don't get it. The American people want more from their leadership than lip service and ideology to a fault. They want plans, alternatives, and in the end; results! Its really not too much to ask for.

For whatever stubborn reason the conservative/republican party continues to this day to offer more of the same. Less than a hour after Obama completed his successfully informative news conference, one of the potential psuedo leaders of the Republican opposition puts out the call to his fellow republicans to oppose Obama if you don't agree.

"We are now in the position of being the loyal opposition," Jindal said at a Republican congressional fundraising dinner that only by coincidence fell on the same night as Obama's news conference. "The right question to ask is not if we want the president to fail or succeed, but whether we want America to succeed."..."the time for talking about the past is over," Jindal said

Well I'm not a politician, but how can you ever get anything done like that? Whatever happened to compromise? Whatever happened to offering alternative plans? It is hard to believe that they still don't get it, and by the way, they wont get it in 2012 either.

footnote: Adding insult to injury, Mr. Jindal, after the media entertained a short-lived debate about Obama's laughing during his 60 minutes interview, made a joking reference to his previous speech, and torture at GITMO...do these guys ever want to win?

'Fundamentaly sound' - exposed

2009-03-15T19:59:00.003-04:00

There has been much ado about those two words of late, but before people go off cocked (or half-cocked), it is of the utmost importance that we review the context in which these statements were made. The words were used basically three times, first-during the presidential campaign by John McCain, second this past week by President Barack Obama, and most recently by economic adviser Christina Romer on Meet the Press. Lets break down all three so we can all be clear about what was said, apparently using this same phrase.

As Senator McCain was campaigning, during one of his famous town-hall meetings, in an attempt to diminish the value of the imploding economy, he stated that the "fundamentals of the economy are strong". Taken at face value, in the context of his speech, it is clear that he meant the basic principles that support our economy are in good shape. That statement of course, is not entirely true. While there very well may have been some portions (such as the resolve of the American people, the willfullness of the American worker, or the indominable American spirit) that were ok, the basic fundamentals, that is those blocks that are (were) on the bottom were crumbling at best.

President Obama used the same words, but in a slightly different context. His statement came in the form of an If/Then statement, specifically IF we pay attention to those underlying building blocks that support our economy that are currently strong, THEN "we'll get through this"...clearly, not the same statement. Obama's statement is conditional.

Now, Christina Romer - "The fundamentals are sound in the sense that the American workers are sound, we have a good capital stock, we have good technology," she said. "We know that - that temporarily we're in a mess, right? We've seen huge job loss, we've seen very large falls in GDP. So certainly in the short run we're in a - in a bad situation." She clearly laid out and explained her answer as she made the statement, not as some post furor damage control. AND she used at least one of the same concepts McCain used when he did try to clean up the egg he laid.

In truth, these two words used together in a sentence have become taboo, at best they are capable of giving anyone a false sense that things just aren't that bad. At worst, they show how detatched the utterer may be from the crux of the issue at hand. Either way, the three statements are NOT the same.

Our Borough President

2009-03-15T19:12:00.003-04:00

just got body-checked by the NY Daily News

It appears as though he has been acting as a one-man stimulus package for some pricey friends. See - http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/03/15/2009-03-15_staten_island_borough_president_james_mo.html

Now I don't personally have the investigative power to raise the question, but the first thing I would look at is his end-run around competitive bidding...and why. $70,000 to one firm, in one year, for photography?!?! Correction, for Information Technology and video equipment (I hope it was at least a purchse, and if it was, where is it now?)

I don't deny that Staten Island is very lacking in the tourism department, and that the Island could use some promotion. However, most of the promotion is self-promotion. These photos are not going to tourist centers or information kiosks, they are being passed out at his events, events where there are likely very few tourists.

It is this type of shady dealings that highlight the need for reforms and transparency at every level of government. By the time these issues are brought to light, the money is long spent, and the memory of just how things went down dims. I have seen some factions on the blogs calling for the elimination of this position altogether, and this behavior backs up that desire. So the question I put to my fellow Islanders is simple...What do we need a Borough President for?

Cramer vs Stewart; win, lose, or draw?

2009-03-14T01:01:00.005-04:00

Just wrapped up watching the, hopefully, final segment of the Daily Show with Jon Stewart in which he finally got Jim Cramer to come on the show. Jon let loose on Cramer in a no-holds-barred street brawl...and Cramer begged for more. The real winners here are the viewers of both shows. Stewart gains a little more in the respect and accountability department, while viewers of "Mad Money" will likely take Cramer's advice with some extra grains of salt going forward.

Jon Stewart not only lambasted Cramer for allowing the network to portray him as a financial guru, he let loose on the network (CNBC) as well. He called them to task to be more investigative and less schmoozy with the financial world. While he did not specifically blame them for any part of the financiial crisis, he did make it abundantly clear that if there was any network that could be in the position to know what was coming, it should have been CNBC. They either sat on the sidelines, or worse, at times, cheered them on as the powers that be raped and pilaged.

The sad part is that this one show will likely result in little if any changes. But in the meantime, kudos Jon, you represented the 'little guy', and you did it with fortitude and dignity.

Ahh St. Patrick's Day...what does it really mean?

2009-03-10T03:37:00.005-04:00

Year after year, generation upon generation we continue to "religiously" (pun intended) celebrate holidays with little if no regard for their purpose or true meaning to our lives. Take the recent St. Patrick's Day festivities... we see the traditional trappings of a parade and "wearin' o' the green", sweaters, corned beef and cabbage specials, and shammrocks everywhere, but do participants really honor the day, or is it a good reason to get plastered and raise a glass (as if some of us even need a holiday for that). First some history...I promise to keep it short. St. Patrick's day is originally a Holy day of obligation for Catholics, usually observed on March 17th, except when it may interfere with Holy week days. The feast/celebration is so important that bishops have been known to lift meat restrictions implemented for Lent in order to allow the feast to occur. The holiday is to honor, of course, St Patrick. The patron saint of Ireland. Sounds like serious stuff so far... So what is with the drunkfest? and the hooliganism? What part of that honors the Saint? As my wife passed around the back of the parade route, she observed NYPD vehicles with coolers in the trunk (emergency water of course), a psot-parade tour of Forest avenue found bars with the majority of the patrons on the sidewalks and standing room only inside. Loud? yes, Drunk? certainly, Celebrating the patron Saint of Ireland? I didn't see it. Well as luck would have it, Staten Island experienced very few incidents as a direct result of this years revelry (past years were not as fortunate). But in Hoboken- well those guys know how to PARTY! Hoboken experienced 80 injures and police issued 376 siummonses, worse than last years numbers...but not as bad as 2006. I write all this just to make a simple request. If you are going to celebrate anything, know what it is you celebrate and why...maybe, just maybe...we'll begin to celebrate just a little bit differently.

The Girl Who SILENCED THE WORLD at the UN for 6 MINUTES

2009-02-28T11:53:00.000-05:00

Truly a MUST SEE.

Florida Fiasco moves north to Staten Island?

2009-02-26T06:55:00.001-05:00

There are far too many variables that come into play with paper ballots. They leave way too much room for corruption and disenfranchisement. What is the backup plan? What if they run out of ballots in “certain” places? How will they be transported and who will do the physical counting? Hanging chads, pregnant chads, write overs, stray marks….my head is spinning as I FORESEE visions of Florida. Staten Island is about to make national news again, not for election night violence this time…..

That was my statement, when I discovered we would be using paper ballots, now here is my personal experience.

I worked the night shift Monday, so I went to the polls as I returned from the city. As I approached the table, a middle-aged African American woman had just placed her ballot in the box, and had a broad smile on her face. That smile turned to fear as she read a poster of the proper instructions for filling out the ballot. She turned to the worker and stated, I put a circle around the candidate, thats what you told me to do, but it says here to fill in the box. The worker replied that it would be “ok”, and that her vote will be counted. She asked if she could have it back, or do it over, but the poll worker insisted it would be ok. As visions of High school days, and military days, where filling in scan forms was a recurring event, I remembered how many times people had to ask for another one. Just because they couldn’t seem to follow simple instructions. At that time, it was my thought that the voter goofed, and to be honest, was about to get what she deserved. I voted, properly of course, and went on about my day, supporting the candidate I just cast a vote for. I called my wife to tell her the story, and to remind her to fill out the ballot properly for whoever she was going to vote for, as if I didn’t know (wink), she laughed at me of course…she thinks she is smarter than I am. As the day progressed, I accompanied her to vote, somebody had to stay with the kids, in the car. She came out with THAT look on her face. She was mad as…well you know. She told me the same poll worker gave her the SAME INSTRUCTION, and it was now some 5 hours later, and countless voters (ok maybe not countless) have passed through this same table with this same worker and the same faulty information. My wife admonished the woman immediately. She insisted that she tell people the correct information, and that it was important for people to vote correctly. From my perspective, it is impossible to know whether those ballots were counted or not, but for a ONE DAY event, uyou would think that the BOE would give them a script of what to say, and that the workers wouldn’t make up their own rules as they go along.

Why the BOE Simply Can't be Trusted!

2009-02-26T03:24:00.009-05:00

Bear with me as I lay out the time line....all will become apparent shortly. First the paper ballots, in an excerpt from the Advance, political writer Tom Wrobleski, posted the following as part of a news story;

BOE general counsel Steven Richman said that the ballots will be secured in locked boxes during voting.

here is the link: http://www.silive.com/news/advance/index.ssf?/base/news/123548131973930.xml&coll=1

Now I'm no rocket scientist, but not only are these boxes NOT locked, they are totally unsecure, masking tape and folded tops leads me to wondering, with all that already has, and still possibly can go wrong, why such a shoddy system?

The Road to recovery

2009-02-25T03:44:00.000-05:00

Do they think we’ve forgot?

2009-02-14T15:16:00.001-05:00

Republicans of late have been breaking their necks to let everyone know what a terrible thing it is to spend the people’s money. They pretend to be worried about our standing in the world and our vulnerability to terror attacks. They are slowly remembering words like standards, patriotism, and values. If we lived in the forest for the last decade, one might be easily led to think that these have always been the good guys. We were there, and we remember.

We remember the Democrats being pressured into voting for the war. They believed the intelligence that the President allowed to be published. It painted an evil picture, and some Democrats were duped.

We remember the seemingly endless search for WMDs that never materialized. Cutaway views of portable chemical manufacturing trucks. Then the sorry explanation that while the entire country was locked down that Saddam somehow managed to sneak them out.

We remember saying no to bills that the President and his in control henchman pushed through anyway.

We remember begging and not understanding what the difficulty was to outfit a Humvee with armor, only to find out later that the Humvee should not have been sent in the first place.

We remember the promise of a quick war that would instantly break the resolve of the enemy, that the people would greet us as liberators.

We remember reflections on internment camps (GITMO), young inexperienced soldiers left unsupervised to torture and humiliate prisoners. (Abu Ghrabe)

We remember a lackadaisical attitude as thousands languished and died in New Orleans.

We remember how Oil contracts in Iraq were resolved before the effects of Katrina are fixed.

We remember how the opportunities to regulate the banking industry came and went.

We remember how you misled the country, how you let Bin Laden go, how you wasted this country’s resources.

We remember how you shredded the constitution, habeas corpus, and invaded the privacy of American citizens.

We remember, but here is what we will do about it; we forgive you, now lets work together. Work together because what is at stake today is so much more important than what has happened in the past.

$1,000,000 Challenge

2009-02-09T23:51:00.003-05:00

Its relatively simple. Gather all the ingredients necessary to bake a cake, mix the batter and pour into a pan. Bake accordingly...and now the challenge...extract the two eggs you used to make the cake.

This impossibility is significant with regard to the upcoming election. On February 25th, campaign offices will close, consoling words will be passed around, and congratulatory/concession phone calls will be made. But throughout this process, during this cycle, feelings have been hurt, trusts have been torn, relationships have been damaged, households have been split (politically)...eggs have been broken, and there is no way possible to put the egg back in the shell.

Now in an ideal world, these transgressions would be carelessly forgiven as a part of the political process and things will return to the way they were, but we don't live in an ideal world. We live in a world where people have short memories, where bitterness is held on to longer than grandma's luggage, where payback is a...well you know. But the losers will not be the candidates that didn't make the cut, the losers will be the programs associated with their names. You might think that people would put high quality programs ahead of petty differences, but expect to see that programs associated with the losing side to suffer as a result of campaign passion.

My second challenge carries no prize. If you are the elected, forgive and move on beginning February 25th. Be the bigger person, show that you are more than the names you were called on a blog, or the person who was maligned during a forum. Actually there is a prize here as well. It is honor, a word seldom used anymore in the civilian world, and a word long overdue for greater use on Staten Island

What was he thinking?

2009-02-06T07:31:00.004-05:00

Staten Island Election Night beating victim arrested for allegedly stealing car
by Staten Island Advance Thursday February 05, 2009, 10:56 AM

Staten Island Advance/Michael Oates
Ali Kamara is led out of the 120th Precinct stationhouse this morning.

While Mr. Kamara's attack was the catalyst that launched the investigation into the Rosebank Krew, there are still other victims. Victims that would not have seen justice if not for Mr. Kamara.

We owe our thanks to him for that, and there will be no releasing of anyone...even if you vacate the assault charges against Kamara, there are still other victims.

Mr. kamara is deserving of the full weight of justice as well. If (when) he is found guilty, he should be given a sentence that is commensurate with the crime he committed and any previous criminal record he might have. He has seriously damaged any civil case he was considering ONLY because the jury will have less sympathy for him when considering any award. He does however still have a case, and with the guilty pleas, its a lock.

The racial insensitivity being displayed here is the same problem that started this entire ball rolling. It is the latest reason that Staten Island's NATIONAL name is forever linked with racial violence specifically associated with the election. Think people, think about what you say in front of your children, think about how your narrow views are no longer in line with the way the rest of the country is going. I live here, I love it here, and some people are turning what I love into a cesspool of hatred and intolerance. If you don't like other types of people from different walks of life- LEAVE! Staten Island will be better for your absence.

Tony Baker launches initiative to help fund the Staten Island Zoo

2009-01-19T20:56:00.001-05:00

As a teacher and dean, I have witnessed you accomplish many things for our community. So this week, when I read with dismay that one of our great institutions, the Staten Island Zoo, was going to be experiencing severe budget cuts, I immediately thought of you. I am issuing a challenge to all our students, along with your schools, to adopt an exhibit at the Staten Island Zoo through a program I call “SI ZOO is MY ZOO.”

Staten Island has 119 schools in total (including public, private, parochial and institutions of higher learning), while the Staten Island Zoo has 150 exhibits. In order to make up the difference, I suggest our larger high schools and colleges/universities adopt an exhibit per class to make up the difference. Each exhibit adoption will be based on school population, with smaller schools adopting smaller and/or less expensive exhibits and larger schools adopting larger exhibits and/or more expensive exhibits.

I urge you to do what you do best and be creative in how you will raise the funds to assist your adopted exhibit. In order to begin the process, I have created a Facebook networking page: “SI ZOO is MY ZOO.” Our older students and student governments are invited to join, while our younger students should ask your parents, PTAs and school administrators to join.

I will work with you and the Staten Island Zoo to coordinate this project. Together we can make a difference.

Tony Baker Sr.
Port Richmond

To join the effort or submit fundraising ideas go to http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=45436042903

Keith Olbermann gives synopsis of the Bush years

2009-01-19T20:49:00.001-05:00

8 years in 8 minutes...

Staten Island Advance

2009-01-13T17:29:00.002-05:00

Staten Islander collects 2nd batch of signatures for Council race.

Rev. Tony Baker filed his petitions under the "Prepared to Lead, Ready to Serve" party.For Staten Island's Rev. Tony Baker, the devil is in the details.

Last week his campaign filed the threshold number of petition signatures to get him on the ballot in the Feb. 24 North Shore City Council special election.

Since it's a non-partisan race, the independent nominating petitions must include a made-up party name and logo. They got the name part down OK - "Prepared to Lead, Ready to Serve" - but forgot about the pesky logo, Rev. Baker acknowledged today. It was to have been the Liberty Bell.

Bottom line: He could have been bounced from the ballot despite having filed 1,796 petition signatures - 1,464 are needed - in advance of Thursday's midnight filing deadline.

While Rev. Baker said he was not officially notified of the problem by the Board of Elections, and an elections spokeswoman couldn't be reached today, his supporters hit the streets again over the last 48 hours to collect a second batch of petitions totaling 1,877 signatures, this time with his chosen Liberty Bell designation.

Better safe than sorry, said Rev. Baker, pastor of St. Philip's Baptist Church, Port Richmond.

"I have the support of almost 4,000 people on my petitions," said Rev. Baker. "Even if the Board of Elections wants to throw the others out, and that's up to them, I am on the ballot. If they want to disenfranchise almost 1,800 people who signed the first petitions, that is up to them."

Meanwhile, Tom Curitore of St. George said he filed in excess of the threshold number of signatures under the banner of the "North Shore First." That could not be independently confirmed with the board.

Curitore, a former borough Department of Transportation commissioner, joins Ken Mitchell, John Tabacco and Rev. Baker.

-- Reported by Judy L. Randall

How did he get here from there?

2009-01-07T22:56:00.002-05:00

Tony Baker’s quest for the North Shore City council seat is a natural extension of not only his religious beliefs, but his passion for community as well. Since coming to the Island, he has been an advocate for fairness and a voice for the voiceless. His 20 years of military experience (Sergeant, 1st Class US Army), 30 years of marriage (of course to one woman), 29 years of fatherhood, 12 years as Pastor of St. Phillips, and 8 years teaching in Port Richmond High School, represent just the tip of the man who is Tony Baker. Unlike some of his contemporaries, he is certainly a man of action, far more substance than flash.

Not long after meeting him some five years ago, my initial impression proved true; he is a man who believes in what he says. Who does what he says he will do, and is a living example of what a man today should be. I have seen him stand up for the rights of others, put his own needs aside to help someone, and deal firmly and fairly with those at odds. His leadership has inspired others to do more.

Tony Baker has been a supporter of the existing Staten Island Democratic hierarchy, he supported them personally, as well as giving them all the opportunity to address the congregation with their views, and their plans. These include Matt Titone, C. Virginia Fields, Mike McMahon, Steve Harrison, Diane Savino, and even a surprise visit by Hillary Clinton. As supportive as he has been, when it came time to replace the outgoing Councilman, a man he considered his friend, he was asked not to run. Luckily that did not dissuade him. With the support of some of the democratic party, he has forged ahead, He was the first to put up a website (www.baker09.com) even before McMahon won the election, the first to officially announce his candidacy….but this isn’t a race of just firsts. This will be a race of who can get their supporters to the polls on February 24th (the Farmer’s Almanac says snowy, then turning milder for that week). Tony has enlisted the support of a variety of people from many walks, professionals, retirees, homemakers, some congregants, young and old, but all dedicated to sending Tony to the city council to be their voice.

Tony has been integral in bringing together Hispanic immigrants and African-Americans in the Port Richmond area to initiate a dialogue that continues today. That dialogue has reduced racial insensitivity and violence in the area. He helped ensure that residents of the former Markham Gardens get the right to return to the newly built homes that have replaced the public housing. As a member of the Board of Richmond University Medical Center, he has unique insight into the health care needs of Staten Island, a fight he vows to win. Tony Baker has worked closely with the District Attorney on anti-crime initiatives including most recently the most successful gun buy-back program New York City has ever had. These are just a small sample of his extensive accomplishments.

I support Tony Baker, not because of his race, not because of his religious beliefs, but because I believe he is truly prepared to lead and ready to serve. Staten Island’s North Shore is ready for change, I have lived on the North Shore my entire life in six different
neighborhoods. I have seen many changes in my 44 years, but I anxiously await the next change to take place. Elect Tony Baker for City Council 49th District.

I know the election is over, but this is too funny!

2009-01-06T15:37:00.000-05:00

A new year with the same old Island politics

2009-01-06T13:16:00.002-05:00

Kenny Mitchell took advantage of insider knowledge....plain and simple. His completing and submitting the required signatures by 0900 Monday, giving him the first column on the ballot, was a sneak attack, and in my opinion unfair to the other candidates. Was it illegal? no, unethical? yes. Why the fear? I believe, based on the size alone of his volunteer force, that he would likely have won the race to collect signatures anyway. I don't think any other candidate has 100 volunteers. His actions are indicative of typical Island politics and are why I feel a sweeping change is needed. This 'sneak attack' shows the kind of man he is, the kind of campaign he will run, and the type of councilman he would be if elected.

2008-12-27T21:05:00.000-05:00

Thanks Dad, I miss you.

2008-12-07T04:09:00.001-05:00

Heroes

2008-12-01T22:20:00.000-05:00

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

2008-11-30T22:57:00.002-05:00

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

2008-11-22T21:24:00.000-05:00

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.

2008-11-19T20:56:00.003-05:00

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

2008-10-25T20:17:00.000-04:00

it might actually be funny...

What not to wear

2008-10-04T10:24:00.001-04:00

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

2008-09-23T23:22:00.001-04:00

....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

2008-09-22T14:46:00.001-04:00

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?

2008-09-18T13:53:00.002-04:00

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

2008-09-08T13:46:00.000-04:00

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

2008-09-01T22:25:00.002-04:00

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?

2008-07-29T11:04:00.002-04:00

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

2008-07-25T11:47:00.000-04:00

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.

2008-07-24T11:04:00.000-04:00

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...

2008-07-22T11:28:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-07-16T23:11:00.002-04:00

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

2008-07-16T23:09:00.003-04:00

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

2008-07-16T07:57:00.000-04:00

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...

2008-07-15T18:19:00.002-04:00

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

2008-07-14T07:06:00.003-04:00

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 $$

2008-07-14T07:04:00.000-04:00

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

2008-07-08T14:55:00.001-04:00

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

2008-07-01T09:24:00.007-04:00

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

2008-07-01T09:22:00.001-04:00

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?

2008-06-29T18:34:00.001-04:00

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

2008-06-27T13:51:00.002-04:00

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?

2008-06-26T18:27:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-06-26T17:23:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-22T16:28:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-21T21:52:00.000-04:00

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?

2008-06-17T17:53:00.002-04:00

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...

2008-06-17T06:48:00.001-04:00

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

2008-06-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-15T19:15:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-15T15:00:00.001-04:00

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

2008-06-14T20:01:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-06-14T17:09:00.000-04:00

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?

2008-06-12T18:42:00.000-04:00

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?

2008-06-11T22:54:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-11T13:34:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-06-07T15:19:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-06T22:06:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-06-06T17:37:00.000-04:00

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...

2008-06-01T01:29:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-29T21:38:00.001-04:00

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

2008-05-24T06:49:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-21T23:56:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-21T18:01:00.000-04:00

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'

2008-05-20T18:21:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-05-20T06:51:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-05-18T22:46:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-18T21:47:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-18T21:44:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-18T21:27:00.000-04:00

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

2008-04-10T22:25:00.001-04:00

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?

2008-04-10T06:55:00.000-04:00

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

2008-04-09T23:33:00.000-04:00

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

2008-04-09T23:09:00.000-04:00

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.