Talk of the Sound - Comments

A Note from Warren on United We Stand!

Bob McCaffrey — Wed, 22 May 2013 21:31:31 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Warren has asked me to post this for him as he is unable to post any longer:

Bob McCaffrey Well Said,

This is brilliant and evocative. It is also very, very adult, very well defended, very American. I am prouder today than I was yesterday because I have seen the spirit of a people come through and debate a number of significant issues in a matter that could serve as a model for the United States. I wish when I was in better shape that I had the opportunity to contribute and to learn from proponents on both sides of the number of questions raised.

You deserve the lion's share of the credit for placing the debate in a form and style that a number of our best and brightest could sit down and with little in the way of ad hominem speech, give their points of view. There is hope for the City if this sort of reasoning continues.

I am proud of every poster on this page and this entire series of opinion belongs somewhere in a City file available to the public and open for view. It brings back bittersweet memories of trying to get Noam to add the roles relationships and responsibilities of the City Council, City Manager and Ceremonial Mayor onto the City Council agenda and have the City Attorney give a presentation of findings and fact to the community. My sources tell me it was not distributed to the council members but destroyed. Were this done the tone of the debate thereafter in New Rochelle would have taken on the characteristics seen in this round in 2013. I fondly recollect the estimable Brian Sussman, a fine citizen, trying to secure documents I requested of him that indicated the actual wording of subsequent referendums on the ballot calling for the definition of the Mayor.... strong versus weak. There is so much more.

I gladly stood in TOTS and tried to present my views on matters such as the primacy and need of the proper execution of the City Charter, the need to return to the 1996 Comprehensive Plan and not the jury-rigged 2012 version, which does not reflect the authenticity of the design and findings of the 1996 version. This is not trivial as it shapes the downtown and North Avenue debate much more forthrightly with no vapid verbalizations to disguise its importance. So much more.... the need to marry formally the School District to the City Administration to properly build a Commercial property tax base, the taking of a risk analysis to promote on-going property assessment instead of that abomination of employing an a posteriori (back ass end) assessment which guarantees most filers an adjustment, but cripples the economy as well as the appropriate management within the school district. Then, of course the Armory and with it, a correct and workable redefinition of the New Rochelle Waterfront as an integrated developmental asset.

In all candor, neither the GOP, especially under St Paul nor most members of Talk of the Sound had much interest in these matters preferring cartoons, ad hominem attacks and endless complaints about subordinate matters such as parking or assessment. It was and is a waste of time and talent; the debate you have shared with me proves this beyond a shadow of a doubt. So, in my declining years I take great pride in reading what you have presented and hope that the good citizens of TOTS go after the forest and not the trees. The Gadsen flag nonsense is an understandable reaction to the divisions in the City, but this division is a diversion. As pointed out, I have an actual replica of the real Navy Jack featuring the coiled snake; it is an authentic replica and belongs, with Old Glory, in the Armory proper. Of course a proper material and size flag need to be purchased and I will purchase it if asked to do that honor. It is a red striped on white border flag with the snake displaying 13 rattles on its tail and it lies on the 7 red stripes. Surely it is the correct flag and I am going to present my replica in the weeks ahead to Jim Maisano, a fine ex-Marine and not a sunshine patriot, who I am sure will place it under glass, and display it in his office.

Two final points, this series of dialogues points out the authenticity and value of Bob Cox who afforded breadth and scope for this fine series of public expressions. The community owes him many thanks for his steadfastness and community service. I only hope he carries the day on today's ballot for school board member. The second point is that there appears to be uniform agreement that Barry Fertel has never met a mistake he didn't like; something he has carried over from his days on the School Board. What a pity to have someone on the Council that could have made a major difference in coming up with an organizational arrangement to link together the City and District closer to promote a better City and District. I suppose he, like the others, did not really pay attention to the meaning and intent of Toccis' legislation in the Assembly that lead to community voting for school board trustees and budget. It did not mandate relationships or even when this voting should take place.

I would encourage Bob Cox, whether successful or not, to print out what Tocci's bill actually said and perhaps Ms. Gill will understand what the New Rochelle Charter invests in her as Attorney, regarding the definition and intent of the Charter for Ceremonial Mayor, City Manager and City Council. She is not obliged to respond to a community member, but if someone like Louis Trangucci would stop standing in front of a wrong symbol on North Avenue outside of the VFW post and ask her, during a Council Meeting to define and describe these matters, the City would know and the community could finally understand. He would join Bob McCaffrey, Martin Sanchez, "Tim Knows", John D, Brian Sussman, Bob Cox, Greg Varian, Ivar Hyden and others, as courageous and great 2013 New Rochelle citizens.

Thank you Bob.

Warren

either way you are screwed

FedUpinNewRo — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:44:51 +0000

In reply to Bob Cox for New Rochelle Schools:

Robert Cox has his share of detractors. Often times he may have missed the mark in terms of the investigations that he has made.

But, the BOE has become a passion of his, and he has done his due dilligence to expose the corruptness, cover ups, misappropriation, and sloth of the idiots who walk around New Rochelle with their pants down. It is time to straighten up, and Cox will keep you honest, whether he is on the school board, or just acting as a concerned citizen.

Democratic machine

NewRoPatriot — Wed, 22 May 2013 13:54:37 +0000

In reply to Bob Cox for New Rochelle Schools:

The reason why a person like Bob will not win in New Rochelle is that you need the blessing of the democratic power brokers to win.

Been calling them out on their incompetent, unethical, mafia like behavior for years, and you run the biggest New Rochelle news site that keeps them on record? nope too dangerous!

That kind of person might ask real questions effect real change, maybe even expose some corruption (gasp) and what the demo-rats really hate is that they wont follow their marching orders and tow the party line.

You know heaven forbid you might have an independent thought or difference of opinion from the hive mind.

If anything this proves that anyone with very little experience with the school board and its duties can win just because they have the backing of the Democratic machine in New Rochelle..

Just as long as you promise to back the power brokers and not rock the status quo of course!!

New Rochelle has been getting the Government it deserves, that's why this city is dying and it will continue to get more of the same, In Fact Detroit and Chicago are perfect examples of the result of Democratic control and their failed policies, its why NY state is the least free state in the union (Google it)

If the people of New Rochelle continue to follow their "dear leaders" blindly, very soon they will suck the last drop of life blood out of New Ro for their own personal advancement and ruin this once productive and prosperous city, they will leave the south end to further deteriorate with failed "developments" and the north end can just officially merge with Scarsdale already (their money might insulate them for a little while). When that happens there will be no one to blame but ourselves.. I plan to be far away from this state by then.

Murrow said it best : "a nation of sheep will beget a government of wolves"

2x Loser

rickyrat — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:06:58 +0000

In reply to Bob Cox for New Rochelle Schools:

Another election another loss... Your a fool to think that this city will ever let you win... Now you can focus on publishing lies and deception about people at the BOE... Now you want a recount and your claiming fraud? Your such a loser... I'll see you at Dunkin donuts fatboy...

I have nothing to comment on here

Above you all — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:32:57 +0000

In reply to Bob Cox for New Rochelle Schools:

I have nothing to comment on here as Peggy has said it all, Good luck Mr Cox

Board of ed election.

herman045 — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:02:16 +0000

In reply to Bob Cox for New Rochelle Schools:

Not a lot of confidence in the women running the poll at Holy Name.

Sussman

QueenCity — Tue, 21 May 2013 17:10:03 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

What did you expect Tim. I can only hope to ingest the amount of drugs it would take to reach his state of delusion. Of course every one is entitled to his or her opinion. But after following his postings, it is so obvious that he is a starry eyed follower of his liberal idols, and doesn't check his facts. The man is a lemming.
Now, I'm sure he will respond to this because people like him have to have the last word, for in hit mind it would give him validation.
I do not intend to respond in kind, so I will concede his post as the last word. Its the least I can do to boost his ego as he sits at his computer trolling for subject matter to comment on.

Brian WRONG again

Timknows — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:55:18 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Brian, once again you are WRONG! I read the first paragraph of your response in reference to Councilman Lopez and the Civil Rights Lawsuit and you are WRONG!!!!!!! Follow this link; http://tinyurl.com/mms6akk
You will see that the date of the lawsuit was December 10, 2003 and Roberto Lopez (elected in November, 2003) had to sign off on the final agreement which affected then District 4. This is why we can no longer have a debate. Debates are about opposing opinions based on facts. Once the facts are removed there is no debate. I appreciate the verve you have defending the democratic party and NR democrats but unfortunately the definition of verve is: CREATIVE enthusiasm. When you create misnomers and represent them as facts all validity to your opinion lost.

Two Topics: City Yard and Past Council Redistricting

Brian Sussman — Mon, 20 May 2013 21:33:52 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Roberto Lopez was only elected in 2003, and had nothing to do with the redistricting following the 2000 census, that determined the boundaries or apportionment, by the NR City Council, of City Council Districts affecting the 2003 Elections. Councilmembers who voted on City Council boundaries for the 2003 election included Republicans Joe Fosina (CD4) and Michael Boyle (CD1). I don't know how they voted.

USDC Judge Charles L Brieant was dissatisfied with the Council Districts created by the NR City Council, and ordered redistricting for the 2007 elections. I believe it was the Court, not Roberto Lopez or the other Council Members, who were responsible for the Council redistricting that affected the 2007 Elections.

I am unsure of the actual party registration numbers in NR Council Districts in 2007, but do believe that in 2007, CD1 had a greater percentage of Republicans than the other five Council Districts, although Democrats predominated, then and since, in all six Council Districts. Currently, it is CD2 which is the most Republican of all the Council Districts, with about 31.16% Republicans and 41.44% Democrats. City-wide, currently there are about 52.6% Democrats and 20.73% Republicans.

I don’t tend to accept much at face value, especially when it comes to politics, and I often research facts. I am unsure what it is, that you believe I do accept at face value.

As I understood Councilman Barry Fertel’s explanation, and perhaps I am assuming the details of his general explanation, garbage trucks will travel from Beechwood via Rockdale Ave to Kings Highway to Main St, getting on I-95 at Exit 15N near Home Depot. From there, the garbage trucks would travel on I-95 to Exit 16, getting on Garden St, under I-95, traveling on Cedar St to Raddison Plaza, to River St, to Palmer Ave, to Potter St, over I-95, and towards Pinebrook Blvd, all in order to reach the North End. Compare that to the easier, faster and cheaper current method of traveling from City Yard, to Stevenson Blvd to Palmer to Potter.

It could be that Councilman Fertel was referring to our garbage trucks traveling from Beechwood directly to Main St, heading south to the I-95 entrance at Exit 15N, but that would even be a bigger mess than taking Rockdale/Kings Highway. Either way, I am quite sure he was referring to using I-95’s exits 15 & 16.

Of course, once City Yard is moved to Beechwood, we cannot be sure what routes they might take. The trucks could simply travel on Main St from Beechwood to City Yard’s current location and get on Stevenson.

My opinion is that the trucks are also likely to travel on Webster, either getting there via Main St, Jones St, or via 2nd St to Union Ave, to Webster. I believe the garbage trucks are also likely to travel on North Ave to get to the North End.

Every possibility is unrealistic and will only increase traffic congestion in our city, long infamous for frustrating traffic congestion and overly-slow, inconvenient travel. I am fairly certain that moving City Yard to Beechwood, can only further damage our almost-catatonic downtown commerce.

Fertel incorrect once again

Timknows — Sun, 19 May 2013 23:33:33 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Redistricting is required, by law every 10 years, based on census results and popuation shifts noted in census blocks. The majority party, NR Democrats, gerrymandered the districts and only a court order based on minorty disenfranchising African Americans in District 3 could change the NR Democrat's political gerrymandering.

Let's not forget the NR Democrats refused to accept and meet Judge Briant's court ordered redistricting levels in 2000 concerning reduced African American polulation in District 3. Any District 3 changes had to be signed off by Councilman Lopez in District 4 a Hispanic Minority Opportunity District at that time. Let's also not forget that when you define CD 1 as being the most Republican of NR's 6 districts you ignore the fact that CD 1 has a majority Democratic registration. It was the NR Democrat's redistricting, based on the 2010 census, that resulted in changing District 1 into the Hispanic Minority Opportunity District.

Any intervention by the Federal Courts is a direct result of a successful lawsuit(s) challenging the political gerrmandering by NR Democrats.

While you are a registered Democrat I implore you not to accept what Democatic elected officials tell you. Don't accept what they state at face value, especially Councilman Fertel, who has been incorrect many times and has little if any knowledge about the southern districts. When I referer to the city yard location in the City Park Ikea area I refer to city vehicles accessing I 95 directly, via the entrance along I 95 for the current NYS maintenance facility on I 95. For Fertel's referenced I 95 access city vehicles would either have to travel down Beechwood to Main St. and down Main St. to I 95 to gain access to the North End or down Beechwood to Rockdale to Kings Highway to Main St. Either route will compound current congestion and increase maintenance & response times.
Remember, the Devil's in the details.

While I believe our exchange productive, I take no ones opinion, statement or explanation at face value. I listen then gather facts that confirm or disprove the information I was afforded. I form my own opinion and carry water for no person or political party.

If elected County Executive,

John Imburgia — Sun, 19 May 2013 10:37:16 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

If elected County Executive, I promise to raise taxes so that Westchester can have things I, oh I mean, the people want. I will give land and tax breaks to rich developers so that I, I mean we, can have more luxury residential buildings. I will leave the City of New Rochelle in the hands of my poker buddy and good friend, Barry Fertel. Barry will do what I, I mean you, want. He loves raisings taxes so the City and the County will have tax hikes when I am elected. Please vote for me so that someday I can become a U.S. Senator.

Thank you,
Noam Bramson

1999 CD1 Election & Current City Yard Policies

Brian Sussman — Sat, 18 May 2013 21:54:54 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Our City Council was redistricted several times in the 2000's.

The gerrymandering of CD1 in 2007, was due to our Federal Courts determining our City Council districting. Our courts were involved primarly regarding CD3 and African-Americans, and perhaps also regarding Hispanics. CD1 was not the reason for that redistricting, but it was affected by it, resulting in CD1 being the most Republican of our 6 City Council Districts in 2007.

On 2011, due to the latest census, our City Council was again redistricted. CD1 was designated to be a Council District capable of electing Hispanics. However, many of those Hispanics are citizens who were to young to vote in 2011. Among CD1's citizens of voting age in 2011, there were many Republicans, resulting in Lou Trangucci being reelected. But those children who were 14 in 2011, will be old enough to vote in 2015, and it is quite possible an Hispanic will be elected to City Council from CD1.

I wasn't following NR Politics that closely in 1999, except for Mayor, and CD2 (which was my Council District until 2006 redistricting). So I had to look up the 1999 CD1 election in the records I keep of past Westchester elections. You are correct as to Mike Boyle unseating Alex Eodice in a very close election due to third party votes for Boyle.

I have no idea as to the proportion of Republicans to Democrats in CD1 at that time, but assume that in 1999, CD1 had a greater percentage of Republicans than the other 5 Council Districts had. Are you aware of another CD in 1999 with a greater percentage of Republicans than CD1?

IKEA had two plans for New Rochelle, one near Home Depot, and the other near City Park. I will presume you are referring to the one near City Park. Although I'd prefer City Yard staying where it is, I do think the location near City Park is better than Beechwood or near Home Depot.

A serious issue near City Park, is whether that would be offensive to the large Black population living near there. On the other hand, moving City Yard to Beechwood is a serious insult to the Hispanics living near there. By leaving City Park at is present location, the only neighbors would be the people who moved to that neighborhood, already knowing City Yard had been there for many, many decades.

Larchmont has a tiny population, and has no real influence on NR policies. Don't be fooled by illusions that they have any influence on where City Yard is, other than issues of environmental concern.

Barry Fertel told me, this week, that the plan from Beechwood, is to use the I-95 Exit near Home Depot, to travel to the other I-95 exit near Shop-rite, to get to the North End.

If the IKEA site you refer to is their original planned location near Home Depot that is similar to the route Barry Fertel suggests. But wouldn't that screw up all the commuters trying to use both NR I-95 Exits? I think that is quite impratical. There's nothing that makes more sense than leaving City Yard where it is, especially because the LI Sound brings fresh air to the current site, and allows City Yard's smells to escape to the LI Sound. By moving City Yard inland it will simply stink up downtown NR.

Regarding City Yard, where you state Larchmont might rise up against City Yard remaining in its location, wouldn't Pelham Manor rise up against moving City Yard near its border?

Redundancy Removed By Poster

Brian Sussman — Sat, 18 May 2013 21:49:36 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

The website hiccupped and created the same posting twice. I have removed the redundancy here.

The other copy of that posting remains above, and is entitled '1999 CD1 Election & Current City Yard Policies', and its link is:

http://www.newrochelletalk.com/content/what-ever-happened-united-we-stan...

Decisions Are Often Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Brian Sussman — Sat, 18 May 2013 20:44:51 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

I and everyone else in the USA agree that the public officials we elect should make "good decisions and not bad ones".

Unfortunately, our public officials are human, and therefore make good and bad decisions.

And, even our best and brightest public officials are often caught in the dilemma of a problem offering multiple possibilities, none of which is practically acceptable to most people. Therefore the voters must choose between 'a rock and a hard place'.

Most Americans are in awe of our Founding Fathers. Thomas Jefferson, writer of the Declaration of Independence, and James Madison, writer of the US Constitution, especially stand out. Jefferson wrote all men are created equal, yet owned slaves, some of who were his own children. Madison wrote our Constitution to make slavery legitimate. These were great men, but being human they ultimately were a source of our Civil War where more than 600,000 Americans died determining that the USA would eliminate slavery.

And yet, England and Scotland outlawed Slavery in 1772, 4 years before our Revolution. The UK outlawed Slavery in 1833 thoughout its empire, 28 years before our Civil War began. Until 1865, American slaves would have been better off if our Revolution had never occurred.

Voters, of all political philosphies, must often choose which issues are their priorities. A voter might vote for a preferred candidate, or against a detested candidate.

In these times of extreme partisan bickering, voters often vote for one candidate or another based on Party affiliation. But the USA would be a better place with more cooperation between our major poltical parties. Personally, I like all the members of our City Council, and, and think they do try to work things out. In comparison, these days, legislators in DC and Albany always seem mired in obstruction and inaction.

I long for the 1960's when congress was in a golden age of beneficial, cooperative legislation. Except for foolishly permitting getting us into Vietnam, our 1960's Congress was one of the most practical, moral Congresses we have had in the last 80 years.

democracy

Above you all — Sat, 18 May 2013 17:38:17 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

"USA democracy is based on electing officials to make decisions"

It should only be base on making good decisions and not bad one's

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In reply to Map: Where are the Journal News employees in your neighborhood?:

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Democrats gerrymandered for a Republican???

Timknows — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:58:51 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

I have one question about the gerymandering of District 1 as a republican district in 2007. NR democrats have had simple (4-3), super (5-2) and 6-1 majorities for over nearly 20 years so why would they gerrymander a district for a republican? Once again your "facts" are wrong as Councilman Trangucci's predecessor, Councilman Michael Boyle, unseated Councilman Alex Eodice, a democrat incumbent, by wrandling minor party endorsement in a primary. At that time the district was a democratic majority registration.

As far as the city yard is concerned, I understand wanting to develop waterfront property, but it must be highly commercial as no one I know would want to live next to a oversized public porta-potty. I get frustrated when the administration and Bramson inparticular state this is the worst place to have a city yard. When the city yard was constructed, most materials were delivered by barge so the current site was state-of-the-art for its day. I believe the yard should be moved alongside I-95 in the area condemned for Ikea. It should abut the current NYS facility and we could share maaterials lowering costs. This would also be strategic as 1/2 exit puts you in the south end and 3 blocks drive puts you in the north end. This will never happen for two reasons; one it makes sense and two Larchmont would rise up again.

Rallies made Gadsden popular...

BMWCH — Fri, 17 May 2013 22:00:26 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

The Gadsden Flag was made popular by being present at the numerous OCCUPY WALL ST. rallies and protests.

Google that.

My statements regarding

Brian Sussman — Fri, 17 May 2013 20:09:57 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

My statements regarding anything to do with the Gadsden flag being raised at the NR Amory, is totally based on what I have read at TOTS and what I have Googled on the Net. I have not discussed these issues with anyone, except via Posts at TOTS. As far as I know, the Gadsden Flag is not a hot issue among NR Democrats or NR Voters, and its main area of discussion is here at TOTS

From what I read at TOTS, I thought the raisers of the Gadsden Flag contacted the right-wing think tank for legal assistance. If it was the other way around, as you state, I am mistaken as to who contacted who.

However, I'd be a bit surprised if the national right wing media found out about this story, all on their own, without anyone in New Rochelle contacting them about it. Why would the national right wing media be monitoring TOTS' blogs and postings otherwise? Most of what I see at TOTS is local news that would be of no interest to the national media of any political philosophies.

I appreciate your clarification regarding Ron Tocci, Linda Levine, John Verni and Michael Brown. Although it seemed likely that they were all for preserving the Armory, there was a strong implication in your wording that they were all supporters of raising the Gadsden Flag at the Armory, and I was seeking a clarification, confirmation or denial. It is a minor matter, but misunderstandings breed myths.

As you know, I believe the Armory should be preserved, maintained, enhanced and publicly used.

I also regularly advocate that City Yard should not be moved. It could not be located in a better place than where it has been for many decades. It could not be moved to a worse place than planned. I would like to see more citizen protests regarding City Yard.

Susan Kettner loss in the 1st City Council District occurred because there was a shortage of Democratic District Leaders in the 1st City Council District, so she was short of help. I live in the 4th Council District, but spent much of that year, almost daily campaigning for Janet Jordan (now Janet Jordan Malone), for Family Court Judge, throughout Westchester, mostly outside of New Rochelle. Judge Malone won her primary by 75% and her general election by 60%.

Hon Susan Kettner is our elected City Judge, a much better office than NR City Council, I think it best that we avoid discussions of her campaign for City Council in 2007. I also wish to avoid commenting on Councilman Lou Trangucci's campaign in 2007, other than stating his predecessor was also Republican, who like Mr Trangucci in 2007, benefitted from a Council District gerrymandered to be the most Republican Council District in NR.

I think you and I have had a reasonable discussion here at TOTS, regarding the Gadsden Flag and Armory. Personally, I think the Gadsden Flag issue diverts attention from more importantly preserving the Armory, and diverts public attention from other important local issues.

What is your perspective on moving City Yard? For me, that is an issue of even greater concern than the Armory. I can't imagine moving it to a less suitable place than near Beechwood, and uphill from draining into two Catholic cemeteries, one of which as a lake which will receive leeched garbage draining. The Beechwood location is also absent easy access for our garbage trucks to travel to and from the North End. Moving City Yard to Beechwood is an insult to the intelligence of the people living in New Rochelle.

I can't think of a better place for City Yard to be than its present location near the Sewage Treatment Plant, and with easy access to roads leading to the North End.

Debate requires facts

Timknows — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:22:29 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

I can no longer continue what I thought was a debate as you continue to make unwarranted ASSumptions and false statements. Either the people informing you are misinformed or you don't care to seek out the facts. I will give you two examples.

FIRST, you state; "A right-wing think-tank was hired by the raisers of the Gadsden Flag, in preparation of a civil rights lawsuit", FYI, that "think-tank" contacted the NR Veterans AFTER the story went viral (national) to offer their services, not as you claim. I challenge you to produce any evidence to the contrary.

Second, you state; "You appear to be saying that Ron Tocci, Linda levine, John Verni and Michael Brown all think that the Gadsden Flag should fly at the Armory". I never said or intimated that. I said that preservation and adaptive reuse of the Armory is paramount and I cited this group to illustrate bipartisan support to adaptively reuse the NR Armory.

I have no knowledge of Ms. Levine's 1991 campaign or your role in defeating her. I do however have first hand knowledge of Judge Susan Kettner's failed attempt to become the District 1 council representative. You were clearly a major factor in her defeat despite campaigning on her behalf. I'll give you a hint of what I refer to, [Pelham Road A&P].

I find it interesting that you capitalize both the Gadsden Flag and Armory. If the NR city council had the same respect you show for both, New Rochelle wouldn't find itself in the disgraced position its in.

We can agree to disagree.

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In reply to Long-time Davis Principal William E. Harrell To Retire After 50 Years With New Rochelle Schools:

He's done so much for the school and I think it's it's about time that he reap the results of years of hard work and just chill at home. :)

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The Official Navy Jack Is Not the Obscure Gadsden Flag

Brian Sussman — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:28:01 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

The Gadsden Flag was raised at the Armory, without permission of the City Council of New Rochelle. A right-wing think-tank was hired by the raisers of the Gadsden Flag, in preparation of a possible civil rights suit.

As right-wing partisan politics can only weaken the non-partisan movement to preserve the Armory, the Gadsden Flag is counter-productive to preserving the Armory.

The vast majority of NR Voters couldn't care less about the obscure Gadsden Flag, and why would they?

I can't imagine how the Gadsden Flag can possibly benefit the movement to preserve the Armory. But it is quite obvious, that some people are trying to invent an issue regarding the Gadsden Flag, in hopes of getting political contributions from right wingers, far away in other states, via the national right-wing media including Fox News. Such political contributions would have little to do with preservation of the Armory, as donations would come due to right-wing infatuation with the Gadsden Flag icon and with other right-wing causes it symbolizes.

Linda Levine, has never demonstrated any liberal tendencies. She didn't even believe in Council Districting, something that benefits minorities, and lost her reelection bid with her anti-minority support of keeping City Council seats At-Large. I probably had as much to do as anyone, getting her kicked off the City Council in the 1991 elections, and I am quite proud of it.

Ron Tocci had the exact opposite position as Linda Levine, regarding the 1991 City Charter referendum, and Ron, no doubt, was also hoping to see her lose the 1991 election. I doubt Ron will dispute what I have written about Linda Levine.

I have no idea whether Linda Levine is supportive of the Tea Party, but it wouldn't suprise me if she is. I know nothing of John Verni, and not much about Mike Brown other than he was a Democrat running as a Republican candidate for Mayor in 2007, and lost badly in that election.

You appear to be saying that Ron Tocci, Linda Levine, John Verni and Mike Brown all think the Gadsden Flag should fly at the Armory. This surprises me, but I will leave it to them to deny it, or else for them to choose to let you brand them with that. Either way, that is their choice, and has no affect on me.

I am liberal and have always supported preservation of the Armory (and of Ft Slocum), but see no reason for the Gadsden Flag to be involved in that issue, other than for Tea Party supporters to foolishly misuse it to sabotage preservation of the Armory. As I very much want to see the Armory preserved, I implore that the Gadsden Flag issue be dropped, so the focus can be on the Armory itself. I have repeatedly made myself clear on this.

I do condemn a permanent confiscating of the Gadsden Flag, and assert that City Hall should hand it back to its owners. However, I see no reason for the Gadsden Flag to fly at the Armory.

The rattlesnake "Don't Tread On Me Flag" was created and used way before the existence of the obscure Gadsden Flag.

The US Navy's flag, the Navy Jack, has a rattlesnake with "Don't Tread On Me Flag" on it. But the Navy Jack has a background of red and white stripes like Old Glory, and is absent the weird yellow background of the Gadsden Flag, let alone any affiliation with the Tea Party. The Navy Jack would be more appropriate to fly at the Naval Armory, but the NR City Council has every right legally to determine what flags, if any, fly at the Armory.

Personally, I am quite satisfied if the only flag flying there is Old Glory.

The lawsuit you wish to see filed, is guaranteed to be determined by Federal Courts, as without merit, if the basis of the legal action is claims of civil rights infringement. It didn't help your cause, that the organization hired, mainly advocates placing religious symbols on public property. Your cause would have been far better off, hiring the secular ACLU.

The Gadsden Flag doesn't hurts Mayor Bramson in the slightest. If anything else, he benefits from that absurd issue. Bramson might be damaged by not preserving the Armory, and yet it is the Gadsden Flag issue that provides him cover, rather than causing him damage.

Recent Developments

BMWCH — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:13:31 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Given the recent examples of actual "targeting" of groups with monikers like "Tea-Party" or "PATRIOT" - is it possible the Local Administration was following a similar direction which was perhaps "suggested" by higher ups?

Let's discuss the NR Armory & Gadsden Flag

Timknows — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:59:06 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

I will stick with the Armory issue and you are dead wrong on your presumptions. Let me state for the record saving and reuse of the Armory is my paramount goal. That said it is the city administration and the democratic majority who made this a national issue.

Associating the tea party with those trying to save the Armory is futile. Co-chairman, Ron Tocci, a long serving democratic NYS assemblyman whose family helped many get jobs through the construction unions, past co-chairperson Linda Levine, a former liberal democratic NR councilperson, John Verni, a moderate republican. Michael Brown, a liberal of many parties these are but a few of the grassroots supporters attempting to help save the Armory. Would you consider any of them tea party supporters or tea party material? Even Mayor Bramson was quoted as saying he prefrred adaptive reuse of the Armory. Many believe that was a smokescreen but you have more experience with Bramson.

Now, let's review the facts as they occured. The Veterans received permission to retire the flag in front of the Armory. In the process they raised the Gadsden Flag and objections were registered with the city manager who, is charged with the day-to-day operations of the city under the NR City Charter. The city manager sent an email to the veterans advising of the complaints because of the association with the tea party and ordered the Gadsden Flag removed. The Veterans responed with the history of the Gadsden Flag and the city manger said he would sleep on it. After digesting all information the city manager informed the veterans that the Gadsden Flag could remain. Then there was an unofficial and illegal vote of city council, propted by councilman Rice directing the city manager to have city employees remove the Gadsden Flag. The veterans were present when the Gadsden Flag was removed to take posession of their property and the city workers handed the Gadsden Fleg to the veterans who folded the Gadsden Flag appropriaatey. Then the city employees confiscated the Gadsden Flag from the veterans and informed them they could pick it up at city hall. Before you challenge my account there are emails and video supporting the what I have listed.

Originally three members of council found the flag offensive (Bramson, Rice & Fertel)and one raised the question of permission (Rackman) and two (Trangucci & Tarantino) supportd leaving the flag. Ms. Rackman blew her position when she attempted to draw a parrell between the Gadsden Flag and the Rainbow Coalition Flag which was aburd. The official vote of council was 5-2, along party lines, to remove the Gadsden Flag.

FYI, the snake still flies on naval ships today. But the reality is that the city manager was over ruled on a day-to-day operations decision. The city council, who over ruled the city manager and is impowered as the legislative branch of the government, overstepped its authority by ordering the Gadsden Flag removed.

If this was truly about permission, why didn't the city council propose & pass legislation stating that any flag flown on city owned property requires city council approval? As you can see, this was a political move by Bramson & company that backfired on a national basis. It should get more interesting when the lawsuit is filed.

No need to diminish

Above you all — Thu, 16 May 2013 22:40:59 +0000

In reply to City Confiscates "Don't Tread on Me" Flag After Veterans Told Flag Could Remain Over Armory:

No need to diminish the Horse's ass award. It should only go to the Mayor. The rest of the democratic Council can get the Jack ass award, also known as the We our puppet's award

No need to diminish

Above you all — Thu, 16 May 2013 22:40:26 +0000

In reply to City Confiscates "Don't Tread on Me" Flag After Veterans Told Flag Could Remain Over Armory:

No need to diminish the Horse's ass award. It should only go to the Mayor. The rest of the democratic Council can get the Jack ass award, also known as the We our puppet's award

History Lesson

Logical — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:26:41 +0000

In reply to Avalon East for sale.... New Rochelle Taxpayers to be fleeced again as wealthy conglomerate seeks to sell tax abated skyscraper :

Is it possible that New Rochelle residents and taxpayers can rely on at least four (4) members of City Council to learn from the historical mistakes of Avalon 1 & 2 and scuttle the ill conceived Echo Bay project?

The only difference between EB and the Avalons is that the Avalon developments did not saddle the taxpayers with $25,000,000 in bond debt!

Actually, I wasn't

Brian Sussman — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:44:41 +0000

In reply to What ever happened to United We Stand, We need another stint in boot camp!:

Actually, I wasn't criticizing you, nor local Republicans or conservatives. Rather. I was criticizing Republicans in Congress, and Republican governors and legislators in southern, mid-west and western states, who are over-zealous in extremest agendas.

I do believe a large majority of Americans believe in birth control, including abortion on demand by the mother for any reason, at least within the first two trimesters, and even during the third trimester when there are special issues involved.

Personally, I believe all private ownership of guns should be banned, but I realize that is unrealistic in our overly-violent USA. Therefore I compromise by pragmatically recognizing the requirement of permitting well-regulated ownership of registered firearms, and that are neither automatic nor semi-automatic weapons.

The best way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases is sex education in schools, and to encourage usage of condoms and medications. That's just reality, no matter what one's morality might be. Legalizing and registering certain unlawful practices, might also reduce the transmission of sexual diseases, but puritan-types, who write our legislation, would be unwilling to legislate what libertarians recognize as pragmatic.

Democrats protect the vulnerable by preventing Republicans from gutting social programs that most Americans want kept in place, as well as enhancing social protections such as by guaranteeing medical care for all. Democrats also recognize that employment by the government provides personal income, the same as does employment by private industry. Republicans seem to have have an odd, illogical perception that working for the government is inferior to working for private business

You and I agree that many mass-murders are created by the insane. Therefore, I presume you also agree with me, that such insane people should be exempt from capital punishment. When it comes to capital punishment I am pro-life.

I think most Americans of all political beliefs are concerned about the current scandal with the IRS targeting certain political beliefs, and with the federal government spying on the Associated Press. What could be dumber than spying on the AP? I certainly hope that some very high-up people are fired by our President.

The Gadsden Flag is totally obscure and meaningless to most Americans. It was only used on a few small boats before the Declaration of Independence. It was one of a number of flags with rattlesnake and the words "Don't Tread On Me", many of which preceded the Gadsden Flag, and all of which was based on a pro-British political cartoon of Ben Franklin's from 1754 that was designed to get the colonies to unite with the UK in an effort against the French.

As I have repeated posted at TOTS, I have no opinion on whether the Gadsden Flag should be allowed to fly at the NR Armory. But I am certain the government of the City of New Rochelle has the legal capicity to deny any group from flying the Gadsden Flag on any flagpole owned by the City of New Rochelle.

The effort to raise the Gadsden Flag at NR Armory, appears to be a partisan effort by local Tea Party supporters. This implicitly connects NR Republicans with national Tea Party politicians. In doing so, it puts the scent of pepe le pew on supporters of preserving the Armory, which might be ok with local Republicans, but damages efforts to preserve NR Armory.

So let me ask you, which is more important? Actually preserving the Armory? Or, alternatively, closing the Armory while making an issue of the Gadsden Flag, ignored by most voters in NR, but perhaps popular in the nation-wide conservative press and Fox News?