http://niagara-gazette.com/local/x1503758131/State-to-forward-2-5M-to-Salamanca-until-Seneca-dispute-ends-no-similar-deal-for-Falls
An article in today's Niagara Gazette (see above) gives a pretty clear indication of what New York State thinks of Niagara Falls. While the State once again found it within its heart of hearts to front $2.5 million to Salamanca, Niagara Falls is left to sit and wait while volunteer agencies get cut and more reductions of services are on the horizon. As Governor Cuomo continues to let Niagara Falls hang by a thread, our elected officials standby hoping for a miracle.
On the one hand you have Mayor Dyster who is telling everyone who cares to listen that the Governor is doing all he can to help the city. He keeps on pointing to the ridiculous offer to accept an advance on the money due the city from the NYPA. This offer is typical NY State. You see by taking the advance the city actually loses money in the long run because as a penalty for receiving this advance what is actually due the city would be reduced. How the Mayor can continue to advance this is simply the act of a politician looking to save his own skin because he certainly does not want to propose service and staffing reductions.
Then of course we have our esteemed State Assemblyman John Ceretto. If you recall Ceretto, along with Councilmen Choolokian and Fruscione, went to Albany last April to discuss with the Governor the prospects for an advance from the State. Of course, despite Ceretto's claim that he speaks with the Governor regularly, when the Terrific Trio went to Albany they ended up meeting with an aide to the Governor. There was plenty of huffing and puffing from the Terrific Trio about how they really got the point across and how they were confident that the Governor would come through. Well, that didn't happen and then in June Johnny Boy wrote a letter to the Governor about an advance.
In today's article, Ceretto touts that he sponsored a bill to have payments be made directly to the city and not have to come through the State. However, what Johnny Boy forgets to tell everyone is that his bill never made it out of committee. Now, once again, he says that if the arbitration isn't settled soon that he will re-introduce legislation to have the city get direct payments from the Senecas. With the Democrats having an even larger majority in the Assembly, what makes you think that a new bill from Ceretto will ever see the light of day.
Finally, we have Council Chairman Glenn Choolokian saying that the State doesn't seem to care about the city's financial problems. My question to Glenn is: why aren't you asking your friend John Ceretto what he is doing about it?? It was you, Fruscione and Ceretto who were on local cable television talking about your efforts to bring these payments to the city. Of the three of you, Ceretto is the state official. He claims every time he sees the Governor he brings up the city's financial woes. Really??? If we are to believe that, then its obvious that Cuomo doesn't give a damn about what Ceretto has to say or about Niagara Falls. It would seem like these 2 political wizards, Choolokian and Fruscione, were taken in by old Johnny Boy.
In the end, all of these local officials posture like they are fighting the good fight for Niagara Falls but in reality they don't have the ability to do anything to break this stalemate. In truth, if this bunch were for sale, I'd like to sell them for what they think their worth and buy them for their real value
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Niagara Falls Is Doomed With Current City Leaders
Yesterday at City Hall, everything that is wrong with city government in Niagara Falls was on full display. Let me be clear, this rests on both the Mayor and the City Council. Let's start with the Mayor. The City Council invited the Mayor to come to their work session at 4pm to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Specifically, the Council wanted to know what the Mayor will do if the City does not receive casino revenue this year. The answer given, as reported in the Niagara Gazette, illustrates why Paul Dyster is in over his head.
The Mayor told the Council that he has been given every indication that the arbitration between New York State and the Seneca Nation will be settled by summer. If this does not come to pass, Dyster indicated that his administration is looking at various scenarios including re-visiting the offer made by the New York Power Authority which was to accelerate payments to the City as a result of the re-licensing agreement. This is what you call leadership???
I have stated many times that Dyster has not come up with one proposal to reduce City expenditures. He continues down that path with his "hope and a prayer" that the arbitration is settled and if that fails he is prepared to take money from the Power Authority in a ponzi scheme that ends up short changing the City in the long run. The Mayor's idea of leadership is to continue to kick the can down the road and hope someone will save him from having to make tough decisions. With leadership like that the City of Niagara Falls will never create a business climate that will be attractive to developers. The Mayor and his Administration should be ashamed of themselves. Maybe when Dyster and his City Administrator go to these conferences they should attend meetings where they can learn about ways to consolidate city services.
The City Council is no better. In their defense, they really need to take lead from the Mayor in order to deal with the fiscal situation. But their ham-handed approach in how they have dealt with local volunteer agencies smacks of political retribution which typifies the political environment for the last 50 years in Niagara Falls. This toxic political environment is as big of a detriment to economic development in this City as the inability to make government more cost effective.
The Gang of 3's rejection of the Oshei Foundation's offer to co-fund the NACC further illustrates that this is all about taking a shot at Dyster. First, the money that is used to fund the NACC is bed tax money. This has no impact on city property taxpayers. Bed tax comes from people who stay at local hotels and motels. Let me say it again: there is NO impact on city property taxes. Second, Oshei's offer was to put up $15,000 with the City coming up with $15,000. This means only using $15,000 of bed tax revenue and keeping the City landmark open.
What is abundantly clear to me is that there are no adults running city government. On the one hand, you have a Mayor who is hoping that the Easter Bunny will come and leave him chocolate, Easter eggs and casino cash in his Easter Basket. And on the other hand, you have the Gang of 3 who are the schoolyard bullies that are going to extract whatever they can from their political enemies. If you wonder why Niagara Falls has not prospered, last night gives you the answer. Incompetence, lack of courage and political vindictiveness are the plagues destroying the City. It's time boys and girls in City Hall to put your big boy and girl pants on and do what's right for the people you serve. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening.
The Mayor told the Council that he has been given every indication that the arbitration between New York State and the Seneca Nation will be settled by summer. If this does not come to pass, Dyster indicated that his administration is looking at various scenarios including re-visiting the offer made by the New York Power Authority which was to accelerate payments to the City as a result of the re-licensing agreement. This is what you call leadership???
I have stated many times that Dyster has not come up with one proposal to reduce City expenditures. He continues down that path with his "hope and a prayer" that the arbitration is settled and if that fails he is prepared to take money from the Power Authority in a ponzi scheme that ends up short changing the City in the long run. The Mayor's idea of leadership is to continue to kick the can down the road and hope someone will save him from having to make tough decisions. With leadership like that the City of Niagara Falls will never create a business climate that will be attractive to developers. The Mayor and his Administration should be ashamed of themselves. Maybe when Dyster and his City Administrator go to these conferences they should attend meetings where they can learn about ways to consolidate city services.
The City Council is no better. In their defense, they really need to take lead from the Mayor in order to deal with the fiscal situation. But their ham-handed approach in how they have dealt with local volunteer agencies smacks of political retribution which typifies the political environment for the last 50 years in Niagara Falls. This toxic political environment is as big of a detriment to economic development in this City as the inability to make government more cost effective.
The Gang of 3's rejection of the Oshei Foundation's offer to co-fund the NACC further illustrates that this is all about taking a shot at Dyster. First, the money that is used to fund the NACC is bed tax money. This has no impact on city property taxpayers. Bed tax comes from people who stay at local hotels and motels. Let me say it again: there is NO impact on city property taxes. Second, Oshei's offer was to put up $15,000 with the City coming up with $15,000. This means only using $15,000 of bed tax revenue and keeping the City landmark open.
What is abundantly clear to me is that there are no adults running city government. On the one hand, you have a Mayor who is hoping that the Easter Bunny will come and leave him chocolate, Easter eggs and casino cash in his Easter Basket. And on the other hand, you have the Gang of 3 who are the schoolyard bullies that are going to extract whatever they can from their political enemies. If you wonder why Niagara Falls has not prospered, last night gives you the answer. Incompetence, lack of courage and political vindictiveness are the plagues destroying the City. It's time boys and girls in City Hall to put your big boy and girl pants on and do what's right for the people you serve. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Dyster Goes At Them & Meals/Conferences
For weeks now I have been calling out Mayor Dyster for not addressing the blatant attempt on the part of the Glenn Choolokian-led Gang of 3 to supersede the current form of government in Niagara Falls. The Gang's lack of understanding of what their role is in city government is only matched by their ignorance in the importance of volunteers to a city that needs all the help it can get. Especially when its cheap help.
Well, today in a Gazette Guest View, the Mayor laid the whole thing out in black and white for all to see. The Gang of 3's feeble attempt to use the Police Department as its reasoning for eliminating funding to the block clubs, the Beautification Commission and the NACC was exposed big time. This was all about political axes to grind on the part of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson.
It is apparent that Choolokian & Company wanted to use the new Police Chief Bryan DalPorto as the face of their ill-conceived plan to get back at the Mayor. Well, finally the Mayor is taking them to task and he shouldn't stop with a guest view. What the Mayor now should do is ask this question: where was the City Controller and Chief Lawyer when the Gang eliminated money that was already approved in the budget. A budget that Choolokian, Fruscione and Anderson voted in favor of. Both of those positions have a duty to speak out if either branch of government is doing something wrong. In this case, that doesn't appear to have happened.
*********************************************************************************
There was an article in the Gazette which also brought to light the expenditures of the Mayor and the Council as it relates to meals and conferences. Let me start out by saying that it is in the best interest of the city that city officials attend conferences to learn about new ideas and processes to make government more efficient and provide better services. In addition, it also provides an opportunity for networking which can bring dividends as it relates to getting help from the state or federal government. As long as the Mayor and the City Administrator are prudent with the costs and they actually attend the conferences, then calling it into question is penny wise and pound foolish.
With respect to the city picking up the tab for council members and city employees to eat before the City Council meeting, the only ones who benefit are the people who are eating. For Glenn Choolokian to say that its not a big deal because they are underpaid is a slap in the face to every hard working person who lives in the City. You knew what the salary was Glenn when you ran for office. Choolokian previously said that what's the big deal if the City pays for him to eat a sandwich. Well, it must be pretty expensive sandwiches when the bill comes to $179!!!
The icing on the cake is that Choolokian justifies this by saying that this has been going on for 50 to 60 years and he didn't make the rules. Really Glenn?? What rule is there that says the City must pay to feed council members before their meeting?? You are so concerned about rules and not breaking them, then why did you violate a local law called the Budget which established funding levels for the block clubs, beautification commission and the NACC. This practice needs to stop NOW!!!
Well, today in a Gazette Guest View, the Mayor laid the whole thing out in black and white for all to see. The Gang of 3's feeble attempt to use the Police Department as its reasoning for eliminating funding to the block clubs, the Beautification Commission and the NACC was exposed big time. This was all about political axes to grind on the part of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson.
It is apparent that Choolokian & Company wanted to use the new Police Chief Bryan DalPorto as the face of their ill-conceived plan to get back at the Mayor. Well, finally the Mayor is taking them to task and he shouldn't stop with a guest view. What the Mayor now should do is ask this question: where was the City Controller and Chief Lawyer when the Gang eliminated money that was already approved in the budget. A budget that Choolokian, Fruscione and Anderson voted in favor of. Both of those positions have a duty to speak out if either branch of government is doing something wrong. In this case, that doesn't appear to have happened.
*********************************************************************************
There was an article in the Gazette which also brought to light the expenditures of the Mayor and the Council as it relates to meals and conferences. Let me start out by saying that it is in the best interest of the city that city officials attend conferences to learn about new ideas and processes to make government more efficient and provide better services. In addition, it also provides an opportunity for networking which can bring dividends as it relates to getting help from the state or federal government. As long as the Mayor and the City Administrator are prudent with the costs and they actually attend the conferences, then calling it into question is penny wise and pound foolish.
With respect to the city picking up the tab for council members and city employees to eat before the City Council meeting, the only ones who benefit are the people who are eating. For Glenn Choolokian to say that its not a big deal because they are underpaid is a slap in the face to every hard working person who lives in the City. You knew what the salary was Glenn when you ran for office. Choolokian previously said that what's the big deal if the City pays for him to eat a sandwich. Well, it must be pretty expensive sandwiches when the bill comes to $179!!!
The icing on the cake is that Choolokian justifies this by saying that this has been going on for 50 to 60 years and he didn't make the rules. Really Glenn?? What rule is there that says the City must pay to feed council members before their meeting?? You are so concerned about rules and not breaking them, then why did you violate a local law called the Budget which established funding levels for the block clubs, beautification commission and the NACC. This practice needs to stop NOW!!!
Monday, February 18, 2013
More Flip-flops from John Ceretto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eodf2zQyWmI&feature=youtu.be
As you can see Assemblyman John Ceretto is at it again. More platitudes and cliches but no substance. This time our esteemed Assemblyman is talking about the Robert Moses Parkway. As many of you know, whether to remove the parkway from Lewiston to Niagara Falls has been a constant debate for many years now. Two lanes of it have been closed to be used by bikers, dog walkers and joggers. There are two lanes that still are opened and this is where the focus has been.
Former Mayor Dick Soluri, a Ceretto ally, has led the charge to keep the parkway open. The Niagara Heritage group wants that stretched of the parkway from Niagara Falls to Lewiston to be completely closed to traffic. In typical Ceretto fashion, the Master Flip-Flopper has been on both sides of the issue. As a town councilman and county legislator, Ceretto wanted the parkway to remain open. Last year, involved in a highly contested re-election campaign, Ceretto changed his tune and said he wanted to have the parkway closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive.
Now with the Draft Scoping Review due out on Wednesday, Ceretto has taken to You Tube to say we have been waiting too long and that the parkway has hindered economic development in Niagara Falls. So let me ask you Mr. Ceretto: what is your plan??? What side of the fence are you on now??
People really need to focus on the changing positions of John Ceretto. He flips more that a pancake. In 2000, he wanted to develop a bike path along the parkway running the entire length of the north parkway. In 2008, he wanted a trolley that would move people from downtown Niagara Falls to Lewiston using the parkway. In 2012, he wants the parkway to be closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive. Funny how his position changes based upon the elected position he holds. You see in 2000 he was a Town of Lewiston Councilman and in 2008 he was a Niagara County Legislator representing Lewiston. In both instances, Lewiston business leaders and the Village of Lewiston Mayor Dick Soluri wanted the parkway to remain opened. But in 2012, involved in a race for Assembly that included the City of Niagara Falls, Ceretto changes his position and advocates a compromise in response to residents in the Deveaux area and the hope that traffic could be diverted to Main Street via Whirlpool Street.
This is just one example of how this guy operates. Check out his voting record on extending the county's 1% sales tax when he was a county legislator and as a NYS Assemblyman. Check out how he voted for the property tax cap but voted in favor of a budget that pushed costs on to local government. Be informed!!!
As you can see Assemblyman John Ceretto is at it again. More platitudes and cliches but no substance. This time our esteemed Assemblyman is talking about the Robert Moses Parkway. As many of you know, whether to remove the parkway from Lewiston to Niagara Falls has been a constant debate for many years now. Two lanes of it have been closed to be used by bikers, dog walkers and joggers. There are two lanes that still are opened and this is where the focus has been.
Former Mayor Dick Soluri, a Ceretto ally, has led the charge to keep the parkway open. The Niagara Heritage group wants that stretched of the parkway from Niagara Falls to Lewiston to be completely closed to traffic. In typical Ceretto fashion, the Master Flip-Flopper has been on both sides of the issue. As a town councilman and county legislator, Ceretto wanted the parkway to remain open. Last year, involved in a highly contested re-election campaign, Ceretto changed his tune and said he wanted to have the parkway closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive.
Now with the Draft Scoping Review due out on Wednesday, Ceretto has taken to You Tube to say we have been waiting too long and that the parkway has hindered economic development in Niagara Falls. So let me ask you Mr. Ceretto: what is your plan??? What side of the fence are you on now??
People really need to focus on the changing positions of John Ceretto. He flips more that a pancake. In 2000, he wanted to develop a bike path along the parkway running the entire length of the north parkway. In 2008, he wanted a trolley that would move people from downtown Niagara Falls to Lewiston using the parkway. In 2012, he wants the parkway to be closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive. Funny how his position changes based upon the elected position he holds. You see in 2000 he was a Town of Lewiston Councilman and in 2008 he was a Niagara County Legislator representing Lewiston. In both instances, Lewiston business leaders and the Village of Lewiston Mayor Dick Soluri wanted the parkway to remain opened. But in 2012, involved in a race for Assembly that included the City of Niagara Falls, Ceretto changes his position and advocates a compromise in response to residents in the Deveaux area and the hope that traffic could be diverted to Main Street via Whirlpool Street.
This is just one example of how this guy operates. Check out his voting record on extending the county's 1% sales tax when he was a county legislator and as a NYS Assemblyman. Check out how he voted for the property tax cap but voted in favor of a budget that pushed costs on to local government. Be informed!!!
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Fruscione's Arrogance On Display
Today's Niagara Gazette reports that two-term Councilman Sam Fruscione sent out a campaign announcement on city council stationary. This is in clear violation of State Election Law. Fruscione says he didn't realize that he put the announcement on the city council stationary template. Really?? And this guy is a school teacher??
I don't buy what Fruscione is selling. In my mind, the arrogance of Fruscione and his co-horts Glenn Choolokian and Bob Anderson is at an all time high and they believe that they can do whatever they want. Just look at what has been going on since January. They have usurped the Executive Branch's authority by reducing budget lines and re-allocating money to a program that they want to see expanded. I thought the Council's chance to influence initiatives was during the budget process.
What's funny is that the Gang of 3 talks about being the watchdogs for the taxpayer. But actions speak louder than words. Choolokian arrogantly said that he will continue to have City taxpayers pay for his dinner before the 7pm Council meeting. Fruscione uses city stationary to send out a campaign notice. They have made it clear that they are going to fund programs that they deemed necessary. They don't say anything about how they are going to control the cost of City Government.
The Buffalo News this morning says that Mayor Dyster will be at the Committee of the Whole meeting at 4pm on Tuesday to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Apparently, the Council is concerned about the $5 million that Dyster put in the 2013 budget as revenue from the Senecas. My question is: if they were concerned why didn't they remove it from the budget in November and come up with reductions in expenditures?? The answer is they nor the Mayor had the guts to make the necessary reductions. Eliminating funds for USA Niagara was easy because it did not effect city services. What should have happened was that this reduction should have been made with further reductions. But making reductions means eliminating jobs and reducing services and there is no appetite for that by the Council or the Mayor.
At the end of the day, residents of the city are left to watch an arrogant Gang of 3 on the City Council and a Mayor who doesn't want to restore his leadership. Tuesday will be an interesting day as the arms negotiating Mayor will meet with the roguish Gang of 3. This may be the biggest negotiating session that Dyster has ever been involved with as his legacy as Mayor may be determined by it.
I don't buy what Fruscione is selling. In my mind, the arrogance of Fruscione and his co-horts Glenn Choolokian and Bob Anderson is at an all time high and they believe that they can do whatever they want. Just look at what has been going on since January. They have usurped the Executive Branch's authority by reducing budget lines and re-allocating money to a program that they want to see expanded. I thought the Council's chance to influence initiatives was during the budget process.
What's funny is that the Gang of 3 talks about being the watchdogs for the taxpayer. But actions speak louder than words. Choolokian arrogantly said that he will continue to have City taxpayers pay for his dinner before the 7pm Council meeting. Fruscione uses city stationary to send out a campaign notice. They have made it clear that they are going to fund programs that they deemed necessary. They don't say anything about how they are going to control the cost of City Government.
The Buffalo News this morning says that Mayor Dyster will be at the Committee of the Whole meeting at 4pm on Tuesday to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Apparently, the Council is concerned about the $5 million that Dyster put in the 2013 budget as revenue from the Senecas. My question is: if they were concerned why didn't they remove it from the budget in November and come up with reductions in expenditures?? The answer is they nor the Mayor had the guts to make the necessary reductions. Eliminating funds for USA Niagara was easy because it did not effect city services. What should have happened was that this reduction should have been made with further reductions. But making reductions means eliminating jobs and reducing services and there is no appetite for that by the Council or the Mayor.
At the end of the day, residents of the city are left to watch an arrogant Gang of 3 on the City Council and a Mayor who doesn't want to restore his leadership. Tuesday will be an interesting day as the arms negotiating Mayor will meet with the roguish Gang of 3. This may be the biggest negotiating session that Dyster has ever been involved with as his legacy as Mayor may be determined by it.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Gang of Three Pushing Dyster To Irrelevance
The announcement by the Niagara Falls City Council's Gang of Three, Bob Anderson, Sam Fruscione and Glenn Choolokian, that they will be allocating $75,000 for a new community policing program is a sure sign that the balance of power at City Hall has shifted away from the mayor's office. The Gang of Three is moving $50,000 from the contingency fund and taking $25,000 from bed tax money to fund this initiative which is suppose to put more police officers on the street. This whole thing brings several questions to mind.
First, why didn't this happen during the budget process? According to the Niagara Gazette, money was placed in the contingency fund to provide additional funding for public safety and particularly the police department. Don't tell me that the Gang wasn't aware of this program in November. Second, if the City's financial situation is as bad as Chairman Choolokian says it is, how can you justify taking $50,000 from the contingency fund for a new program when you may need that money to make up for any revenue shortfalls??
Third, how can you use bed tax money for a police program?? I don't buy the interpretation that it can be used because the program will cover the tourist area. If that is the case, then how do the residents of the City benefit from any of this?? How does this help address the drug and gang activity that exist in the neighborhoods?? The fact is that the justification is B.S. and maybe the State Comptroller's Office needs to get involved as this appears to be a misappropriation of bed tax dollars.
Fourth, since when does the City Council develop and establish programs?? It was my understanding that the Council's main function is to develop a budget and oversee expenditures by the Executive Branch. It is not their function to develop programs. That must come from the Mayor and his Administration. Which leads to my fifth question: Where is Mayor Dyster??
It appears that the Mayor has basically abdicated his authority to the Gang of Three. The little dictator Choolokian seems to be the person calling the shots on how the City operates. How does Dyster allow the Gang to establish a program that he did not initiate? Why isn't he publicly questioning the use of bed tax money for this initiative? And why isn't he asking his new police chief what the hell is going on?? It would appear that the new chief may have cut a deal with the Gang.
Dyster has failed to call the Gang out and take any action. It is apparent that Choolokian and his Gang have taken over City Hall rendering Dyster totally irrelevant. It is only mid-February but if things continue the way they are going, residents of the City will begin to wonder who is the Mayor: Dyster or Choolokian. As it stands now, it looks like the little special crew leader at the Sewage Plant has outsmarted the genius beer maker.
First, why didn't this happen during the budget process? According to the Niagara Gazette, money was placed in the contingency fund to provide additional funding for public safety and particularly the police department. Don't tell me that the Gang wasn't aware of this program in November. Second, if the City's financial situation is as bad as Chairman Choolokian says it is, how can you justify taking $50,000 from the contingency fund for a new program when you may need that money to make up for any revenue shortfalls??
Third, how can you use bed tax money for a police program?? I don't buy the interpretation that it can be used because the program will cover the tourist area. If that is the case, then how do the residents of the City benefit from any of this?? How does this help address the drug and gang activity that exist in the neighborhoods?? The fact is that the justification is B.S. and maybe the State Comptroller's Office needs to get involved as this appears to be a misappropriation of bed tax dollars.
Fourth, since when does the City Council develop and establish programs?? It was my understanding that the Council's main function is to develop a budget and oversee expenditures by the Executive Branch. It is not their function to develop programs. That must come from the Mayor and his Administration. Which leads to my fifth question: Where is Mayor Dyster??
It appears that the Mayor has basically abdicated his authority to the Gang of Three. The little dictator Choolokian seems to be the person calling the shots on how the City operates. How does Dyster allow the Gang to establish a program that he did not initiate? Why isn't he publicly questioning the use of bed tax money for this initiative? And why isn't he asking his new police chief what the hell is going on?? It would appear that the new chief may have cut a deal with the Gang.
Dyster has failed to call the Gang out and take any action. It is apparent that Choolokian and his Gang have taken over City Hall rendering Dyster totally irrelevant. It is only mid-February but if things continue the way they are going, residents of the City will begin to wonder who is the Mayor: Dyster or Choolokian. As it stands now, it looks like the little special crew leader at the Sewage Plant has outsmarted the genius beer maker.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Ceretto: Gun Rights or MMA?
Assemblyman John Ceretto's proposal to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting is filled with pitfalls. Not only would it not benefit Niagara County but it also is a business which treats the participants like pieces of meat. By the way, a similar bill last year never passed the Assembly and I 'm not sure why it will pass this year with Minority member Ceretto proposing it.
But the big concern for me is it's exactly the type of entertainment that creates this culture of violence which has endangered our rights to bear arms. MMA is no different than the violent lyrics in music, violent video games, movies and TV shows. The NRA, which Ceretto proudly states that he is a member, wants a closer look at these sources of violence. The gun organization advocates that there should be some limitations or controls placed on them.
So I ask the question: why Mr. Ceretto are you pushing to legalize a "sport" that is built on nothing more than street violence which is a cause for the gun violence that leads politicians like Cuomo to take away our gun rights?? Once again, this is another issue that Ceretto wants to take both sides but what would you expect from a self-serving career politician.
But the big concern for me is it's exactly the type of entertainment that creates this culture of violence which has endangered our rights to bear arms. MMA is no different than the violent lyrics in music, violent video games, movies and TV shows. The NRA, which Ceretto proudly states that he is a member, wants a closer look at these sources of violence. The gun organization advocates that there should be some limitations or controls placed on them.
So I ask the question: why Mr. Ceretto are you pushing to legalize a "sport" that is built on nothing more than street violence which is a cause for the gun violence that leads politicians like Cuomo to take away our gun rights?? Once again, this is another issue that Ceretto wants to take both sides but what would you expect from a self-serving career politician.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Ceretto's Fetish For MMA
Went on Assemblyman John Ceretto's Facebook page and found the following clip on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWaK1FquRhQ
Hmmm....So good old Ceretto believes that his standing as the ranking minority member on the Assembly's Tourism Committee gives him the ability to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting here in New York State. Really?? Do you think Shelley Silver cares what Ceretto thinks??
Ceretto claims that it will bring $5 million dollars to Western New York. What Johnny Boy fails to realize is that Niagara County wouldn't see any of that money. Why?? Because there isn't a venue in Niagara County big enough that would be a draw to bring Ultimate Fighting fans from all over the country. If it were legalized, the venue would be in Buffalo.
What a dope!! This guy doesn't have a clue. With unemployment still high in his district, no casino money coming to Niagara Falls, the Governor talking about a state-run casino and fracking, this guy is talking about MMA. Glad Ceretto has his priorities straight. Once again, we here in Niagara County are screwed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWaK1FquRhQ
Hmmm....So good old Ceretto believes that his standing as the ranking minority member on the Assembly's Tourism Committee gives him the ability to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting here in New York State. Really?? Do you think Shelley Silver cares what Ceretto thinks??
Ceretto claims that it will bring $5 million dollars to Western New York. What Johnny Boy fails to realize is that Niagara County wouldn't see any of that money. Why?? Because there isn't a venue in Niagara County big enough that would be a draw to bring Ultimate Fighting fans from all over the country. If it were legalized, the venue would be in Buffalo.
What a dope!! This guy doesn't have a clue. With unemployment still high in his district, no casino money coming to Niagara Falls, the Governor talking about a state-run casino and fracking, this guy is talking about MMA. Glad Ceretto has his priorities straight. Once again, we here in Niagara County are screwed.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Choolokian & Company: Let Them Eat Cake!!
Over 100 people filled the Niagara Falls City Council Chambers to speak out against the Glenn Choolokian-led Gang of Three's cut of funding to the NF Beautification Commission, the NF Block Club Council and the elimination of funding for the NACC. Even though these funds were approved in the 2013 budget, the Gang of Three dismissed those residents that came out to City Hall and moved forward with the reductions. Co-Gang leader, Sam Fruscione, said that the cuts had to be made because of the City's financial situation. My question is: how is the city's situation different now than it was back in November/December??
The arrogance of the Gang of Three is unbelievable. Just a few weeks ago, the Gang pushed along a reduction in the property tax assessment of the Turtle which is owned by Choolokian's and Fruscione's benefactor, NFR. Not only was the assessment lowered by $600,000 but the City also had to pay back NFR $37,000. Could that money have gone back to restore funding for the NACC and bring back the funding to what it was in the budget for the Block Clubs and the Beautification Commission??
Someone must have read this blog because the Napoleonic Choolokian was indignant that he and his co-horts did dine out before the meeting and that they had every intention to submit their bills to the City for reimbursement. Really??? Let them eat cake!!! Cut money from volunteer organizations but have the taxpayers pay for your meals for a job that you chose to run for and for which you get paid. Block club members don't get paid. People on the Beautification Commission don't get paid. People at the NACC don't get paid.
What may be behind this was telegraphed in a comment made by little Napoleon when he said that the Gang of Three intended to introduce new programs that will better serve the needs of all city residents. Hmmm...I wonder if these programs are going to cost the city money. If they do, you can bet your bottom dollar that Choolokian/Fruscione cronies will be there with their hands out.
The arrogance of the Gang of Three is unbelievable. Just a few weeks ago, the Gang pushed along a reduction in the property tax assessment of the Turtle which is owned by Choolokian's and Fruscione's benefactor, NFR. Not only was the assessment lowered by $600,000 but the City also had to pay back NFR $37,000. Could that money have gone back to restore funding for the NACC and bring back the funding to what it was in the budget for the Block Clubs and the Beautification Commission??
Someone must have read this blog because the Napoleonic Choolokian was indignant that he and his co-horts did dine out before the meeting and that they had every intention to submit their bills to the City for reimbursement. Really??? Let them eat cake!!! Cut money from volunteer organizations but have the taxpayers pay for your meals for a job that you chose to run for and for which you get paid. Block club members don't get paid. People on the Beautification Commission don't get paid. People at the NACC don't get paid.
What may be behind this was telegraphed in a comment made by little Napoleon when he said that the Gang of Three intended to introduce new programs that will better serve the needs of all city residents. Hmmm...I wonder if these programs are going to cost the city money. If they do, you can bet your bottom dollar that Choolokian/Fruscione cronies will be there with their hands out.
Monday, February 4, 2013
City Landmark On Gang of 3 Hitlist
In a city that has a history of destroying long time landmarks, the Council Majority aka the Gang of Three, have earmarked the end of the old Niagara Falls High School building and its current occupant, the NACC. Using the City's precarious financial situation as an excuse, the Gang of Three have decided that funding must be eliminated for the NACC in spite of the cultural, educational and recreational benefits that it provides city residents, particularly residents in one of the poorest areas of the City.
What these three geniuses fail to realize is that City residents 13 years ago stood up and said they wanted the old school building saved. Now, because they believe that the NACC is Mayor Dyster's baby they are going to cut funding. My question is if there is money appropriated in the 2013 budget for the NACC then how can it be cut?? They already approved funding for 2013.
These three dunderheads don't understand that this building is a part of the City's history. As was stated in the Gazette article today, the funding from the City is used to maintain the building. A building that was the high school for generations of Niagara Falls residents. Sam Fruscione's comments that the building should have been torn down so Benderson could put up a strip plaza is typical of the small minded thinking that has ruined Niagara Falls for over 50 years. Can you imagine this mental giant being Mayor of the City??
If the Gang of Three want to show an example of their cost consciousness then let's see if they are willing to forego their perks. Like for example, do they have the city pay for their meals before city council meetings?? Do they put in for mileage?? Does the City pay for their stationery?? Maybe someone needs to look at this.
In light of the Gang's offensive, when will Mayor Dyster grow a set and call these hooligans out. When will he defend the need for a part of the City's history to be preserved? When will he defend the importance of giving people a reason to be proud of their City by giving them a venue for cultural, educational and recreational activities, particularly in an area where people can't afford to leave their neighborhoods for such activities??
Hopefully, when this come before the City Council the same people who came out 13 years ago will go to City Hall and voice their opinions. A big crowd will certainly test the backbone of the bullies known as the Gang of Three.
What these three geniuses fail to realize is that City residents 13 years ago stood up and said they wanted the old school building saved. Now, because they believe that the NACC is Mayor Dyster's baby they are going to cut funding. My question is if there is money appropriated in the 2013 budget for the NACC then how can it be cut?? They already approved funding for 2013.
These three dunderheads don't understand that this building is a part of the City's history. As was stated in the Gazette article today, the funding from the City is used to maintain the building. A building that was the high school for generations of Niagara Falls residents. Sam Fruscione's comments that the building should have been torn down so Benderson could put up a strip plaza is typical of the small minded thinking that has ruined Niagara Falls for over 50 years. Can you imagine this mental giant being Mayor of the City??
If the Gang of Three want to show an example of their cost consciousness then let's see if they are willing to forego their perks. Like for example, do they have the city pay for their meals before city council meetings?? Do they put in for mileage?? Does the City pay for their stationery?? Maybe someone needs to look at this.
In light of the Gang's offensive, when will Mayor Dyster grow a set and call these hooligans out. When will he defend the need for a part of the City's history to be preserved? When will he defend the importance of giving people a reason to be proud of their City by giving them a venue for cultural, educational and recreational activities, particularly in an area where people can't afford to leave their neighborhoods for such activities??
Hopefully, when this come before the City Council the same people who came out 13 years ago will go to City Hall and voice their opinions. A big crowd will certainly test the backbone of the bullies known as the Gang of Three.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
So Much For Working Together
City Council Chair Glenn Choolokian said after Mayor Dyster's state of the city that the Council must work with the Mayor to address the city's fiscal situation. Well, apparently Councilman Sam Fruscione wasn't listening or Choolokian's comments were nonsense. I'm betting on the latter. According to a Sunday Niagara Gazette article, Fruscione is questioning funding for the Art of Beer Festival that has been held at the NACC since 2007. Fruscione said that Dyster secured funds improperly and that his wife's business directly benefits from the Festival.
It's somewhat ironic that Fruscione is bringing this up now. Fruscione has been on the City Council since at least 2009. Why wasn't he raising a fuss for the last four years?? Maybe it was because old Neville Chamberlain Dyster was allowing Fruscione to employ his buddies. It looks like Dyster's policy of appeasement has backfired just like it did for Chamberlain.
Among political types it is common knowledge that Fruscione is planning to run for Mayor in 2015. It appears that he is going to use his re-election campaign for city council as a referendum on Dyster. It will also be a re-affirmation of the new City Council "Majority" otherwise now known as the Gang of Three. This issue raised by Fruscione is nonsense.
If Fruscione wants to go at Dyster there is plenty of fodder. He could question the Mayor's department head appointments, Dyster's lack of a plan to address the revenue shortfall as a result of the casino impasse and the Mayor's inability to work with other government stakeholders like the County and State Senator George Maziarz. Instead, Frsucione decides to get into name-calling and personal smearing of Dyster and his wife. Typical Niagara Falls politics.
There are many local food vendors who also participate in the Art of Beer Festival. They have the opportunity to promote their business and make a little money. Must be that none of Fruscione's cronies have been able to take advantage of it.
While Fruscione, Dyster and Company play political games, the residents of the City sit idly by wondering how the City will deal with the many issues that it faces. There is an election this November and three current councilman will be running for re-election. It's time to think about who will do what's right for the residents of the city as opposed to doing what's right for their own political gains. Maybe it's time for a wake-up call for Mr. Fruscione. You will have your chance in November.
It's somewhat ironic that Fruscione is bringing this up now. Fruscione has been on the City Council since at least 2009. Why wasn't he raising a fuss for the last four years?? Maybe it was because old Neville Chamberlain Dyster was allowing Fruscione to employ his buddies. It looks like Dyster's policy of appeasement has backfired just like it did for Chamberlain.
Among political types it is common knowledge that Fruscione is planning to run for Mayor in 2015. It appears that he is going to use his re-election campaign for city council as a referendum on Dyster. It will also be a re-affirmation of the new City Council "Majority" otherwise now known as the Gang of Three. This issue raised by Fruscione is nonsense.
If Fruscione wants to go at Dyster there is plenty of fodder. He could question the Mayor's department head appointments, Dyster's lack of a plan to address the revenue shortfall as a result of the casino impasse and the Mayor's inability to work with other government stakeholders like the County and State Senator George Maziarz. Instead, Frsucione decides to get into name-calling and personal smearing of Dyster and his wife. Typical Niagara Falls politics.
There are many local food vendors who also participate in the Art of Beer Festival. They have the opportunity to promote their business and make a little money. Must be that none of Fruscione's cronies have been able to take advantage of it.
While Fruscione, Dyster and Company play political games, the residents of the City sit idly by wondering how the City will deal with the many issues that it faces. There is an election this November and three current councilman will be running for re-election. It's time to think about who will do what's right for the residents of the city as opposed to doing what's right for their own political gains. Maybe it's time for a wake-up call for Mr. Fruscione. You will have your chance in November.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
State Of The City
On Thursday Mayor Dyster gave his 2013 State of the City address. Ho hum. The speech was filled with platitudes and promises but little on addressing issues that really are on the minds of city residents. Dyster's comparison to the city's current plight with the unfinished Capitol building during the Civil War was bizarre. I'm glad the Mayor was paying attention to Senator Schumer at the Inauguration but the analogy illustrates how out of touch he is with the residents of the City. People need to be given hope and leaders are to inspire and provide that hope. But after five years in office, Dyster has provided little of either. In fact, things have gotten worse.
Based upon the Gazette article, there was nothing reported as to how Dyster was planning on dealing with the lack of casino revenue owed to the city. Is he going to meet with the Governor?? If the city goes another year without the casino cash, what is his plan for the 2014 budget?? It appears none of this was addressed as Dyster is smarter than us all and figured he could give the people references to Lincoln and they will be happy.
Then of course we read the enlightened words of City Council Chairman Glenn Choolokian. While I agree with Choolokian that Dyster said nothing about the city's fiscal issues, what was troubling was his reference to the "council majority". Hmmm. What does the triumvirate of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson have in mind for city residents?? Will Choolokian have his own state of the city address?? Did city residents elect these three to act as a voting bloc??
While reading this article, I couldn't help but think that both Dyster and Choolokian must believe that they are like national politicians. For example, it has become a tradition in presidential state of the union addresses for the President to acknowledge someone in the audience who has made a contribution in their community. Dyster, feeling his presidential self, acknowledged Norma Higgs for her volunteer work and that of the NF Blcok Club Council. The fact that Higgs is a cheerleader for whoever occupies the mayor's office shows the depth of her convictions and that of the Block Club Council. I'm trying to think of what contribution to Niagara Falls that Higgs has personally made. Other than writing those meandering columns of the good old days of Niagara Falls, I can't think of any. With respect to the Block Club Council, their effectiveness in making any significant changes to city neighborhoods is limited based upon the lack of jobs and increased crime throughout the city.
While Dyster and Choolokian play the role of Obama and Boehner, residents of the City are set to endure another year of battle between the Mayor and the "Council Majority". Because of Dyster's inability to provide leadership, Choolokian and Company is filling the void which is a scary proposition based upon the people aligned with the so called Council Majority. Maybe the best thing that could happen to city residents is if the Mayor and the Council Majority stop watching Fox News and MSNBC and start listening to the people who elected them.
Based upon the Gazette article, there was nothing reported as to how Dyster was planning on dealing with the lack of casino revenue owed to the city. Is he going to meet with the Governor?? If the city goes another year without the casino cash, what is his plan for the 2014 budget?? It appears none of this was addressed as Dyster is smarter than us all and figured he could give the people references to Lincoln and they will be happy.
Then of course we read the enlightened words of City Council Chairman Glenn Choolokian. While I agree with Choolokian that Dyster said nothing about the city's fiscal issues, what was troubling was his reference to the "council majority". Hmmm. What does the triumvirate of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson have in mind for city residents?? Will Choolokian have his own state of the city address?? Did city residents elect these three to act as a voting bloc??
While reading this article, I couldn't help but think that both Dyster and Choolokian must believe that they are like national politicians. For example, it has become a tradition in presidential state of the union addresses for the President to acknowledge someone in the audience who has made a contribution in their community. Dyster, feeling his presidential self, acknowledged Norma Higgs for her volunteer work and that of the NF Blcok Club Council. The fact that Higgs is a cheerleader for whoever occupies the mayor's office shows the depth of her convictions and that of the Block Club Council. I'm trying to think of what contribution to Niagara Falls that Higgs has personally made. Other than writing those meandering columns of the good old days of Niagara Falls, I can't think of any. With respect to the Block Club Council, their effectiveness in making any significant changes to city neighborhoods is limited based upon the lack of jobs and increased crime throughout the city.
While Dyster and Choolokian play the role of Obama and Boehner, residents of the City are set to endure another year of battle between the Mayor and the "Council Majority". Because of Dyster's inability to provide leadership, Choolokian and Company is filling the void which is a scary proposition based upon the people aligned with the so called Council Majority. Maybe the best thing that could happen to city residents is if the Mayor and the Council Majority stop watching Fox News and MSNBC and start listening to the people who elected them.
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