Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I'm back.
I will be posting my opinion and what I believe to be is the voice of the people. I took some time off and now I am back. Keep watching for more posts.
Friday, June 13, 2008
New York - Where is Your Voice?
With high gas prices, school and property taxes the highest in the nation, small businesses and people leaving the state in droves - when is New York going to speak up? The legislative session will end with no relief in sight and what are the people who we elected doing about it? NOTHING! We need to tell our elected officials that enough is enough. We are not going to stand for incompetent, unproductive, and wasteful legislation any more. Most of our elected officials do not know, remember, or care what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck trying to make ends meet. We need to start electing people who like you and me, understand what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck. We need a voice of the people, not more puppets who cater to special interests.
New Yorker's Need to Wake Up!!
I am just wondering when the people of this great country are going to wake up and realize that we are slowly losing our freedom and moving towards socialism, even communism. Here is the latest example of government intervention.
Niskayuna OKs smoking ban
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=695726&category=&BCCode=&newsdate=6/13/2008
How about the parents take responsibility and teach their own children the dangers of smoking, not the government forcing its laws on everyone in the name of protecting children. It started with forcing people to wear their seatbelt – yes, children need to be buckled up, but if you the driver refuses to that is your problem. You know the risks of smoking, not wearing a seatbelt, eating fast food all the time, if you choose to do these things then you will have to deal with the outcomes – lung cancer, dying in a car crash, or having a heart attack. It is because people don’t take control of their own actions, the government feels it necessary to tell you to do it. This will lead to losing all freedom and becoming a “nanny-police” state. We should not allow our elected officials to force their beliefs on us, they work for us, we are not here for them. Unless people start speaking out then this is the path we are choosing.
Niskayuna OKs smoking ban
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=695726&category=&BCCode=&newsdate=6/13/2008
How about the parents take responsibility and teach their own children the dangers of smoking, not the government forcing its laws on everyone in the name of protecting children. It started with forcing people to wear their seatbelt – yes, children need to be buckled up, but if you the driver refuses to that is your problem. You know the risks of smoking, not wearing a seatbelt, eating fast food all the time, if you choose to do these things then you will have to deal with the outcomes – lung cancer, dying in a car crash, or having a heart attack. It is because people don’t take control of their own actions, the government feels it necessary to tell you to do it. This will lead to losing all freedom and becoming a “nanny-police” state. We should not allow our elected officials to force their beliefs on us, they work for us, we are not here for them. Unless people start speaking out then this is the path we are choosing.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
When DId Our Government Stop Being For The People?
IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government….
The Constitution of the United States
Preamble
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
We the People of the United States
The Framers were an elite group - among the best and brightest America had to offer at the time. But they knew that they were trying to forge a nation made up not of an elite, but of the common man. Without the approval of the common man, they feared revolution. This first part of the Preamble speaks to the common man. It puts into writing, as clear as day, the notion that the people were creating this Constitution. It was not handed down by a god or by a king - it was created by the people.
in Order to form a more perfect Union
The Framers were dissatisfied with the United States under the Articles of Confederation, but they felt that what they had was the best they could have, up to now. They were striving for something better. The Articles of Confederation had been a grand experiment that had worked well up to a point, but now, less than ten years into that experiment, cracks were showing. The new United States, under this new Constitution, would be more perfect. Not perfect, but more perfect.
establish Justice
Injustice, unfairness of laws and in trade, was of great concern to the people of 1787. People looked forward to a nation with a level playing field, where courts were established with uniformity and where trade within and outside the borders of the country would be fair and unmolested. Today, we enjoy a system of justice that is one of the fairest in the world. It has not always been so - only through great struggle can we now say that every citizen has the opportunity for a fair trial and for equal treatment, and even today there still exists discrimination. But we still strive for the justice that the Framers wrote about.
insure domestic Tranquility
One of the events that caused the Convention to be held was the revolt of Massachusetts farmers knows as Shays' Rebellion. The taking up of arms by war veterans revolting against the state government was a shock to the system. The keeping of the peace was on everyone's mind, and the maintenance of tranquility at home was a prime concern. The framers hoped that the new powers given the federal government would prevent any such rebellions in the future.
provide for the common defense
The new nation was fearful of attack from all sides - and no one state was really capable of fending off an attack from land or sea by itself. With a wary eye on Britain and Spain, and ever-watchful for Indian attack, no one of the United States could go it alone. They needed each other to survive in the harsh world of international politics of the 18th century.
promote the general Welfare
This, and the next part of the Preamble, are the culmination of everything that came before it - the whole point of having tranquility, justice, and defense was to promote the general welfare - to allow every state and every citizen of those states to benefit from what the government could provide. The framers looked forward to the expansion of land holdings, industry, and investment, and they knew that a strong national government would be the beginning of that.
and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity
Hand in hand with the general welfare, the framers looked forward to the blessings of liberty - something they had all fought hard for just a decade before. They were very concerned that they were creating a nation that would resemble something of a paradise for liberty, as opposed to the tyranny of a monarchy, where citizens could look forward to being free as opposed to looking out for the interests of a king. And more than for themselves, they wanted to be sure that the future generations of Americans would enjoy the same.
do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America
The final clause of the Preamble is almost anti-climatic, but it is important for a few reasons - it finishes the "We, the people" thought, saying what we the people are actually doing; it gives us a name for this document, and it restates the name of the nation adopting the Constitution. That the Constitution is "ordained" reminds us of the higher power involved here - not just of a single person or of a king, but of the people themselves. That is it "established" reminds us that it replaces that which came before - the United States under the Articles (a point lost on us today, but quite relevant at the time). http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_pre.html
… that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Abraham Lincoln – The Gettysburg Address , November 19, 1863
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government….
The Constitution of the United States
Preamble
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
We the People of the United States
The Framers were an elite group - among the best and brightest America had to offer at the time. But they knew that they were trying to forge a nation made up not of an elite, but of the common man. Without the approval of the common man, they feared revolution. This first part of the Preamble speaks to the common man. It puts into writing, as clear as day, the notion that the people were creating this Constitution. It was not handed down by a god or by a king - it was created by the people.
in Order to form a more perfect Union
The Framers were dissatisfied with the United States under the Articles of Confederation, but they felt that what they had was the best they could have, up to now. They were striving for something better. The Articles of Confederation had been a grand experiment that had worked well up to a point, but now, less than ten years into that experiment, cracks were showing. The new United States, under this new Constitution, would be more perfect. Not perfect, but more perfect.
establish Justice
Injustice, unfairness of laws and in trade, was of great concern to the people of 1787. People looked forward to a nation with a level playing field, where courts were established with uniformity and where trade within and outside the borders of the country would be fair and unmolested. Today, we enjoy a system of justice that is one of the fairest in the world. It has not always been so - only through great struggle can we now say that every citizen has the opportunity for a fair trial and for equal treatment, and even today there still exists discrimination. But we still strive for the justice that the Framers wrote about.
insure domestic Tranquility
One of the events that caused the Convention to be held was the revolt of Massachusetts farmers knows as Shays' Rebellion. The taking up of arms by war veterans revolting against the state government was a shock to the system. The keeping of the peace was on everyone's mind, and the maintenance of tranquility at home was a prime concern. The framers hoped that the new powers given the federal government would prevent any such rebellions in the future.
provide for the common defense
The new nation was fearful of attack from all sides - and no one state was really capable of fending off an attack from land or sea by itself. With a wary eye on Britain and Spain, and ever-watchful for Indian attack, no one of the United States could go it alone. They needed each other to survive in the harsh world of international politics of the 18th century.
promote the general Welfare
This, and the next part of the Preamble, are the culmination of everything that came before it - the whole point of having tranquility, justice, and defense was to promote the general welfare - to allow every state and every citizen of those states to benefit from what the government could provide. The framers looked forward to the expansion of land holdings, industry, and investment, and they knew that a strong national government would be the beginning of that.
and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity
Hand in hand with the general welfare, the framers looked forward to the blessings of liberty - something they had all fought hard for just a decade before. They were very concerned that they were creating a nation that would resemble something of a paradise for liberty, as opposed to the tyranny of a monarchy, where citizens could look forward to being free as opposed to looking out for the interests of a king. And more than for themselves, they wanted to be sure that the future generations of Americans would enjoy the same.
do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America
The final clause of the Preamble is almost anti-climatic, but it is important for a few reasons - it finishes the "We, the people" thought, saying what we the people are actually doing; it gives us a name for this document, and it restates the name of the nation adopting the Constitution. That the Constitution is "ordained" reminds us of the higher power involved here - not just of a single person or of a king, but of the people themselves. That is it "established" reminds us that it replaces that which came before - the United States under the Articles (a point lost on us today, but quite relevant at the time). http://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_pre.html
… that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Abraham Lincoln – The Gettysburg Address , November 19, 1863
Monday, June 2, 2008
Not Done Yet
I took some time off to get acquainted back with my family after campaigning. I will be back within the next week. I have a lot more to say and I still believe that our voice is not being heard. I may have withdrawn my name as a candidate for the Assembly this, but this doesn't mean I have withdrawn from being the voice of the everyday citizen. Check back often.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Eryn Foster Withdrawing from Assembly Race
Press Release
For Immediate Release Contact: Eryn Foster
May 5, 2008 (518) 337-3603
Eryn Foster Withdrawing from Assembly Race
Halfmoon, NY - - In an effort to help maintain a united front for the Republican Party, and after careful consideration, it is with a heavy heart that I, Eryn Foster, am withdrawing my name from the race for the Assembly seat of the 109th district.
Originally, I made the decision to run against the Democratic incumbent Bob Reilly back in July of last year, and after much research, legwork, and many meetings, I officially announced my candidacy in January of this year. My focus has always been to give a voice to the “everyday” person like myself. Although the way in which I will now go about this has changed, I will continue to be an active participant within the community and will still be dedicated to making officials hear the concerns of my fellow business owners, parents, taxpayers, and hard working citizens. Stepping aside is a decision I did not make lightly, nor is it where I would have hoped to be at this point in the race; however, becoming an Assemblyman was never about me, but rather, what I could do to serve my peers. Ultimately, I believe this is the right thing to do. Although the endorsements have not been announced by the district’s Republican parties, it is essential that there not be a division. A divided Republican party would prove to be costly in terms of not only money, energy and time, but would take away strength and could lead to a split of votes between Republicans and Conservatives. A united front for the Republican Party is vital to maintain the strength it needs in a race against a Democratic incumbent.
I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to those who have stood beside me and supported me from the beginning. It has been a journey filled with interesting experiences and we have all learned a great deal along the way. While I am saddened to not have had the opportunity to represent and serve, I will continue to find ways to be a voice for my community and I challenge you all to demand that from any elected official.
###
For more information about Eryn Foster, please visit www.eryn.politicalgateway.com or http://fosterforassembly.blogspot.com.
Friends of Eryn Foster
PO Box 4045
Clifton Park, NY 12065
(518) 337-3603
www.eryn.politicalgateway.com
Foster For Assembly
"Fostering Our Future"
For Immediate Release Contact: Eryn Foster
May 5, 2008 (518) 337-3603
Eryn Foster Withdrawing from Assembly Race
Halfmoon, NY - - In an effort to help maintain a united front for the Republican Party, and after careful consideration, it is with a heavy heart that I, Eryn Foster, am withdrawing my name from the race for the Assembly seat of the 109th district.
Originally, I made the decision to run against the Democratic incumbent Bob Reilly back in July of last year, and after much research, legwork, and many meetings, I officially announced my candidacy in January of this year. My focus has always been to give a voice to the “everyday” person like myself. Although the way in which I will now go about this has changed, I will continue to be an active participant within the community and will still be dedicated to making officials hear the concerns of my fellow business owners, parents, taxpayers, and hard working citizens. Stepping aside is a decision I did not make lightly, nor is it where I would have hoped to be at this point in the race; however, becoming an Assemblyman was never about me, but rather, what I could do to serve my peers. Ultimately, I believe this is the right thing to do. Although the endorsements have not been announced by the district’s Republican parties, it is essential that there not be a division. A divided Republican party would prove to be costly in terms of not only money, energy and time, but would take away strength and could lead to a split of votes between Republicans and Conservatives. A united front for the Republican Party is vital to maintain the strength it needs in a race against a Democratic incumbent.
I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to those who have stood beside me and supported me from the beginning. It has been a journey filled with interesting experiences and we have all learned a great deal along the way. While I am saddened to not have had the opportunity to represent and serve, I will continue to find ways to be a voice for my community and I challenge you all to demand that from any elected official.
###
For more information about Eryn Foster, please visit www.eryn.politicalgateway.com or http://fosterforassembly.blogspot.com.
Friends of Eryn Foster
PO Box 4045
Clifton Park, NY 12065
(518) 337-3603
www.eryn.politicalgateway.com
Foster For Assembly
"Fostering Our Future"
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Spotlight Newspaper Interview
How do you think John Wasielewski’s announcement will affect your campaign? Initially, I was surprised when John told me he was considering entering the race, but that is one of the great benefits of living in a democracy: Choices. I am as committed now as I was when I announced my candidacy back in January to challenge our current Assemblyman. At that time my resolve to give my district a strong, loud voice was steadfast. That has not changed. I continue to be focused and dedicated to represent the citizens of 109th district.
Dan Bazile is also considering a run for the office. Do you think that will affect your campaign and how? Again, I respect anyone who wants to stand up and make a difference. I do think however, it is time for decisions to be made so that an effective and efficient campaign race can begin.
How do you plan to finance your campaign? From day one, I have acknowledged that this will be a grassroots campaign. We are in a struggling economy, and while my campaign has fundraising plans in the works, we recognize that most people don’t have money to spare. One of my platform issues is that New York spends money it doesn’t have. Not only is a modest, grassroots campaign practical, but is also demonstrative of how New York government needs to start thinking and spending.
How effective do you think your Web site has been in promoting your campaign? As with any grassroots campaign, a web based approach is essential to spreading the message and will prove to be an integral part of reaching the greatest number of people without unnecessary spending. My intention of the website, www.eryn.politicalgateway.com, is to give people a sense of who I am and where I stand with regards to current events. As the campaign progresses, it gives voters an opportunity to see my opinions and comments through regular blog postings.
Have you heard any feedback from people since making your announcement to run? Over the last 4 months, support from friends, family, and the community have been encouraging. While out meeting individuals and business owners, it has become clear that their concerns echo my beliefs. People want to be heard – they have been receptive and excited when they realize they are face to face with someone who wants to voice these concerns down in Albany.
And what do you see as the big issues facing people in the towns of Halfmoon, Clifton Park and Colonie? First and foremost: The economy and their family’s safety and wellbeing. To address peoples concerns about the economy, at the very least, we need to:*Eliminate the gas tax*Offer real property tax reform and relief by limiting the property tax burden on homeowners and small businesses*Relieve school districts and local governments of unfunded mandates*Combat Medicaid fraud – which costs taxpayers $4.5 billion annually*Strengthen accountability with regards to school budgets To address people’s concerns with regards to their family’s safety and well being, we need to:*Develop stricter penalties for sex offenders, especially the level 2 and level 3 violent offenders.*Address the concerns regarding the economy.
Feel free to add anything else you feel is pertinent to the article. I hope to follow up to the initial article I wrote about your announcement and see where you stand today in your campaign. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I appreciate the opportunity. Please feel free to contact me with any other questions you may have.
Ashley Lucas - Reporter
Spotlight Newspapers
lucasa@spotlightnews.com
439-4949x36
Dan Bazile is also considering a run for the office. Do you think that will affect your campaign and how? Again, I respect anyone who wants to stand up and make a difference. I do think however, it is time for decisions to be made so that an effective and efficient campaign race can begin.
How do you plan to finance your campaign? From day one, I have acknowledged that this will be a grassroots campaign. We are in a struggling economy, and while my campaign has fundraising plans in the works, we recognize that most people don’t have money to spare. One of my platform issues is that New York spends money it doesn’t have. Not only is a modest, grassroots campaign practical, but is also demonstrative of how New York government needs to start thinking and spending.
How effective do you think your Web site has been in promoting your campaign? As with any grassroots campaign, a web based approach is essential to spreading the message and will prove to be an integral part of reaching the greatest number of people without unnecessary spending. My intention of the website, www.eryn.politicalgateway.com, is to give people a sense of who I am and where I stand with regards to current events. As the campaign progresses, it gives voters an opportunity to see my opinions and comments through regular blog postings.
Have you heard any feedback from people since making your announcement to run? Over the last 4 months, support from friends, family, and the community have been encouraging. While out meeting individuals and business owners, it has become clear that their concerns echo my beliefs. People want to be heard – they have been receptive and excited when they realize they are face to face with someone who wants to voice these concerns down in Albany.
And what do you see as the big issues facing people in the towns of Halfmoon, Clifton Park and Colonie? First and foremost: The economy and their family’s safety and wellbeing. To address peoples concerns about the economy, at the very least, we need to:*Eliminate the gas tax*Offer real property tax reform and relief by limiting the property tax burden on homeowners and small businesses*Relieve school districts and local governments of unfunded mandates*Combat Medicaid fraud – which costs taxpayers $4.5 billion annually*Strengthen accountability with regards to school budgets To address people’s concerns with regards to their family’s safety and well being, we need to:*Develop stricter penalties for sex offenders, especially the level 2 and level 3 violent offenders.*Address the concerns regarding the economy.
Feel free to add anything else you feel is pertinent to the article. I hope to follow up to the initial article I wrote about your announcement and see where you stand today in your campaign. Thank you in advance for your consideration. I appreciate the opportunity. Please feel free to contact me with any other questions you may have.
Ashley Lucas - Reporter
Spotlight Newspapers
lucasa@spotlightnews.com
439-4949x36
Monday, April 7, 2008
PLATFORM
Over the course of my campaign I will be focusing on these issues. You may have read them on other sites and other papers. These issues are not unique but part of the Republican platform and I agree with these issues and what needs to be done in the New York State Assembly.
Reduce Medicaid Spending - Our state leads the nation in Medicaid spending
Per pupil educational spending is among the highest in the nation.
Reduce the property tax burden - We need to reduce the property tax burden placed on homeowners and businesses. This is essential to the growth and success of New York’s economy.
Eliminate gas taxes - We pay the highest gasoline taxes.
We need to eliminate the gas tax saving taxpayers a little more than $.30 per gallon.
Rein in Medicaid costs - reduce property taxes by reining in Medicaid costs.
Attract and retain small businesses and manufacturers - We need incentives to attract and retain small businesses and manufacturers.
We also need to reduce the cost of doing business in the state by cutting business taxes, reducing energy costs and making health care more affordable.
Limit Property Tax Hikes – We need to control property tax increases by preventing school district tax levies from increasing by more than 4 percent annually or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower.
I have read that it is estimated that homeowners and businesses would realize approximately $1.5 billion in savings by limiting the growth of the school property tax levy for the 2008-09 school year. Had this tax levy limit been in place in 2006, taxpayers statewide would have saved almost $1.3 billion.
Create the Office of State Inspector General for Education – I agree with Leader Tedisco that New York needs to create an Office of State Inspector General for Education to investigate financial abuse, corruption and misconduct in schools. This new and independent state agency will have broad authority to investigate financial abuses in schools, allegations of corruption or other misconduct within the district.
Reduce Medicaid Costs on Local Governments – This would allow overtaxed and overburdened county governments to return the cost savings in the form of lower property taxes.
Combat Medicaid Fraud, Waste, & Abuse - Medicaid waste, fraud, and abuse are estimated to cost New York taxpayers nearly $4.5 billion annually. We need a program that would recover this loss.
Local Government Consolidation - The goal is to reduce local governments’ dependence on property taxes by encouraging the consolidation of services where possible. This would also include health insurance plans.
Health Savings Accounts - to foster the development of Heath Savings Accounts in New York. This would provide a choice for citizens seeking new and innovative ways to manage their health care costs.
Reduce Medicaid Spending - Our state leads the nation in Medicaid spending
Per pupil educational spending is among the highest in the nation.
Reduce the property tax burden - We need to reduce the property tax burden placed on homeowners and businesses. This is essential to the growth and success of New York’s economy.
Eliminate gas taxes - We pay the highest gasoline taxes.
We need to eliminate the gas tax saving taxpayers a little more than $.30 per gallon.
Rein in Medicaid costs - reduce property taxes by reining in Medicaid costs.
Attract and retain small businesses and manufacturers - We need incentives to attract and retain small businesses and manufacturers.
We also need to reduce the cost of doing business in the state by cutting business taxes, reducing energy costs and making health care more affordable.
Limit Property Tax Hikes – We need to control property tax increases by preventing school district tax levies from increasing by more than 4 percent annually or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower.
I have read that it is estimated that homeowners and businesses would realize approximately $1.5 billion in savings by limiting the growth of the school property tax levy for the 2008-09 school year. Had this tax levy limit been in place in 2006, taxpayers statewide would have saved almost $1.3 billion.
Create the Office of State Inspector General for Education – I agree with Leader Tedisco that New York needs to create an Office of State Inspector General for Education to investigate financial abuse, corruption and misconduct in schools. This new and independent state agency will have broad authority to investigate financial abuses in schools, allegations of corruption or other misconduct within the district.
Reduce Medicaid Costs on Local Governments – This would allow overtaxed and overburdened county governments to return the cost savings in the form of lower property taxes.
Combat Medicaid Fraud, Waste, & Abuse - Medicaid waste, fraud, and abuse are estimated to cost New York taxpayers nearly $4.5 billion annually. We need a program that would recover this loss.
Local Government Consolidation - The goal is to reduce local governments’ dependence on property taxes by encouraging the consolidation of services where possible. This would also include health insurance plans.
Health Savings Accounts - to foster the development of Heath Savings Accounts in New York. This would provide a choice for citizens seeking new and innovative ways to manage their health care costs.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Representing The Hard-Working Citizens of NYS
How the party and electoral politics are changing: “Things are changing…the day of the white shirt, red tie, and blue suit are over…voters are looking to elect someone they can relate to.” This is what was said by GOP Chairman Mondello when he talked with reporters after his meeting with the county GOP Chairs.
My decision to run for the assembly is based on my belief that our state government is in desperate need of a more balanced representation of the hard working, ‘everyday’ taxpayer. The continued policy of ‘tax and spend’ and the continued constraints on the business environment have left the average wage earner and small business entrepreneur without a voice in our state’s policies and well being.
It is my purpose to run a ‘grass-roots’ campaign representing citizens like myself, who are working hard to raise a family and survive in today’s economic environment. I am interested in the concerns affecting all of us, regardless of our social status, and want to represent you and fight for those issues in our state assembly.
My decision to run for the assembly is based on my belief that our state government is in desperate need of a more balanced representation of the hard working, ‘everyday’ taxpayer. The continued policy of ‘tax and spend’ and the continued constraints on the business environment have left the average wage earner and small business entrepreneur without a voice in our state’s policies and well being.
It is my purpose to run a ‘grass-roots’ campaign representing citizens like myself, who are working hard to raise a family and survive in today’s economic environment. I am interested in the concerns affecting all of us, regardless of our social status, and want to represent you and fight for those issues in our state assembly.
Revision to "Budget Will Hurt Most New Yorkers"
I am revising my last press statement with regards to the “Budget will hurt most New Yorkers.” It has come to my attention that I may have confused some of you. Allow me to clarify a few things. The fact that we have a 4.7% increase in spending, have roughly $4 billion deficit, and then to increase bank fees, credit card fees, health insurance premiums to pay for an inflated budget I find a bit disturbing. We are directly and indirectly taxing the middle class, hard working, average citizen and making it even harder for these people to live in New York. To say that I was bashing AMD or that I was railing against AMD, is an error. I was using them as an example. I am all for getting more corporations to move here so we can stop and eventually reverse the “brain drain” of young professionals.
We also need to protect the small business by giving them the some of the same breaks we give large corporations. I truly believe that the small business is the backbone to the U.S. economy.
I do believe we need to allow more companies the ability to create more jobs. I just don’t want to do it on the back of the already overburdened, overtaxed New Yorker. I want to alleviate that burden. We are the #1 with regards to property taxes in the country. The last time I checked we rank 3rd in gas tax. We need to stop spending money we don’t have and serious cuts need to be made. The legislatures’ belts need to be tightened, and New York citizens should hold accountable those who continue to spend without regard to fiscal responsibility.
One way I believe we can “lighten the load” on taxpayers is to put a CAP on state spending and theoretically analyze state programs to eliminate unnecessary overlap departments and redundant staff. Then we need to reduce state spending and allow the people of New York to keep their money. Which this in turn will allow people to spend more money which will create more revenue for the New York state.
My objective is to represent citizens like myself, who are working hard to raise a family and survive in today’s economic environment. I am interested in the concerns affecting all of us, regardless of our social status, and want to represent you and fight for those issues in our state assembly.
We also need to protect the small business by giving them the some of the same breaks we give large corporations. I truly believe that the small business is the backbone to the U.S. economy.
I do believe we need to allow more companies the ability to create more jobs. I just don’t want to do it on the back of the already overburdened, overtaxed New Yorker. I want to alleviate that burden. We are the #1 with regards to property taxes in the country. The last time I checked we rank 3rd in gas tax. We need to stop spending money we don’t have and serious cuts need to be made. The legislatures’ belts need to be tightened, and New York citizens should hold accountable those who continue to spend without regard to fiscal responsibility.
One way I believe we can “lighten the load” on taxpayers is to put a CAP on state spending and theoretically analyze state programs to eliminate unnecessary overlap departments and redundant staff. Then we need to reduce state spending and allow the people of New York to keep their money. Which this in turn will allow people to spend more money which will create more revenue for the New York state.
My objective is to represent citizens like myself, who are working hard to raise a family and survive in today’s economic environment. I am interested in the concerns affecting all of us, regardless of our social status, and want to represent you and fight for those issues in our state assembly.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Budget Will Hurt Most New Yorkers
Budget focuses on new taxes
Reported in the Times Union
State negotiators cast wide net of increases to give education, health care aid a boost
ALBANY -- State budget negotiators on Friday talked privately of raising taxes on cigarettes, insurers and bankers as lawmakers started working out ways to add hundreds of millions of dollars to education and health care spending.
The quick fix is to implement a higher tax to generate money for the state. But that is exactly all it is…a quick fix. Real reform will only evolve when we can take a moment to stop and reevaluate the cycle we have created. We need to go back to Economics 101. Ultimately, what needs to happen is to lessen the tax burden, cut spending, and this in turn will generate more money. When people are confident that they have more money, they are more comfortable spending it. We then find ourselves in a completely different cycle. It is basic economics…you don’t spend money you don’t have.
How can the government raise spending by 4.7% but not raise taxes? By doing exactly what the Times Union reported… raise credit card taxes, banking fees, tax on insurance policies which will pass the tax to the policyholders through premium payments. This only hurts the hard working middle class.
Capital News 9 reported that they have been told the budget comes with cuts to some very sensitive funds including homeless shelters, low-income childcare, and medication grants for the mentally ill.
New York State government is going to cut funding to these very needy organizations and programs, yet, we are giving corporations like AMD $1.2 Billion in tax credits and incentives to possibly build a factory in Malta. Where are our priorities? We keep pounding our fists saying we need to help the poor, children, and seniors but we continue to cut their funding.
We need to stop spending money we don’t have and serious cuts need to be made. The legislatures’ belts need to be tightened, and New York citizens should hold accountable those who continue to spend without regard to fiscal responsibility.
Reported in the Times Union
State negotiators cast wide net of increases to give education, health care aid a boost
ALBANY -- State budget negotiators on Friday talked privately of raising taxes on cigarettes, insurers and bankers as lawmakers started working out ways to add hundreds of millions of dollars to education and health care spending.
The quick fix is to implement a higher tax to generate money for the state. But that is exactly all it is…a quick fix. Real reform will only evolve when we can take a moment to stop and reevaluate the cycle we have created. We need to go back to Economics 101. Ultimately, what needs to happen is to lessen the tax burden, cut spending, and this in turn will generate more money. When people are confident that they have more money, they are more comfortable spending it. We then find ourselves in a completely different cycle. It is basic economics…you don’t spend money you don’t have.
How can the government raise spending by 4.7% but not raise taxes? By doing exactly what the Times Union reported… raise credit card taxes, banking fees, tax on insurance policies which will pass the tax to the policyholders through premium payments. This only hurts the hard working middle class.
Capital News 9 reported that they have been told the budget comes with cuts to some very sensitive funds including homeless shelters, low-income childcare, and medication grants for the mentally ill.
New York State government is going to cut funding to these very needy organizations and programs, yet, we are giving corporations like AMD $1.2 Billion in tax credits and incentives to possibly build a factory in Malta. Where are our priorities? We keep pounding our fists saying we need to help the poor, children, and seniors but we continue to cut their funding.
We need to stop spending money we don’t have and serious cuts need to be made. The legislatures’ belts need to be tightened, and New York citizens should hold accountable those who continue to spend without regard to fiscal responsibility.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Keep Young Professionals in New York
Calling all young professionals. The Capital Region needs you.
That's the message of a marketing campaign launched Wednesday by two chambers of commerce and backed by Albany International Airport and many of the area's colleges and universities.
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=673557&category=BUSINESS&BCCode=HOME&newsdate=3/20/2008
The problem here is; if New York continues to tax its residents and businesses where is the incentive to stay in New York and plant roots and raise a family. Young people are leaving because they have seen their parents struggle in New York for years and believe there is probably not a future for them here. With high utilities, high gas taxes, high property taxes and no end in sight with regards to state spending they would be foolish to stay in New York.
What we need to do is put a cap on spending which will ultimately reduce spending and lower taxes. This would allow people to save more and spend more which in turn would generate more revenue for the state.
When elected I would propose legislation that would put a cap on spending until had control over what were spending New York’s citizens’ hard-earned income on. Then let New Yorker’s decide what to spend their money on.
That's the message of a marketing campaign launched Wednesday by two chambers of commerce and backed by Albany International Airport and many of the area's colleges and universities.
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=673557&category=BUSINESS&BCCode=HOME&newsdate=3/20/2008
The problem here is; if New York continues to tax its residents and businesses where is the incentive to stay in New York and plant roots and raise a family. Young people are leaving because they have seen their parents struggle in New York for years and believe there is probably not a future for them here. With high utilities, high gas taxes, high property taxes and no end in sight with regards to state spending they would be foolish to stay in New York.
What we need to do is put a cap on spending which will ultimately reduce spending and lower taxes. This would allow people to save more and spend more which in turn would generate more revenue for the state.
When elected I would propose legislation that would put a cap on spending until had control over what were spending New York’s citizens’ hard-earned income on. Then let New Yorker’s decide what to spend their money on.
STRICTER PENALTIES FOR SEX OFFENDERS
We need stricter penalties for sex offenders, especially the violent offenders. A 2-5 year confinement for a Level 3 offender isn’t sufficient. At Level 3, these are people who are viewed to offend again. My children can’t ride their bikes alone in the neighborhood we live in. Why? Because Watchdog.com and other websites like this enlightened me that we have sexual predators living right here in our community. I understand we can’t set up separate villages for offenders to live in, but I also don’t think 2-5 years of imprisonment will make them productive members of our society either. Our judges need more to work with…the laws need to be tougher, harsher, the punishment more strict.
A message needs to be sent that there are VERY REAL CONSEQUENCES for these VERY REAL CRIMES. At the very minimum for Level 2 and Level 3 sex predators there should be a MANDATORY MINIMUM of prison time. We need harsher penalties for those in position of power and trust over our children. Along with NEVER having contact or involvement with any children.
My question is: Why are we so concerned with the well-being and the rights of people who had absolutely zero regard for the well-being of our society’s most precious commodity…our children?
A message needs to be sent that there are VERY REAL CONSEQUENCES for these VERY REAL CRIMES. At the very minimum for Level 2 and Level 3 sex predators there should be a MANDATORY MINIMUM of prison time. We need harsher penalties for those in position of power and trust over our children. Along with NEVER having contact or involvement with any children.
My question is: Why are we so concerned with the well-being and the rights of people who had absolutely zero regard for the well-being of our society’s most precious commodity…our children?
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Senate proposes restrictions on state spending
"A proposed amendment to the state Constitution that would limit the growth of New York’s budget was passed last Wednesday by the Senate.The Senate Republican majority’s spending cap plan would prohibit a governor from submitting a budget that would increase spending by more than either 4 percent of the previous year’s budget or 120 percent of the consumer price index, whichever is less. And the cap would affect not only the governor’s Executive Budget proposal, but would hold the Legislature to the same spending restrictions in the creation of a final budget."
http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2916
This is exactly what New York needs. A cap on spending and eventually reduce spending and lower taxes. This would allow individuals and small business to keep more of their hard-earned money. If New York can stop overtaxing the small business owners, more money could then be spent on benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans. The quick fix is to implement a higher tax to generate money for the state. But that is exactly all it is…a quick fix. Real reform will only evolve when we can take a moment to stop and reevaluate the cycle we have created. We need to go back to Economics 101. Ultimately, what needs to happen is to lessen the tax burden, cut spending, and this in turn will generate more money. When people are confident that they have more money, they are more comfortable spending it. We then find ourselves in a completely different cycle. It is basic economics…you don’t spend money you don’t have.
http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2916
This is exactly what New York needs. A cap on spending and eventually reduce spending and lower taxes. This would allow individuals and small business to keep more of their hard-earned money. If New York can stop overtaxing the small business owners, more money could then be spent on benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans. The quick fix is to implement a higher tax to generate money for the state. But that is exactly all it is…a quick fix. Real reform will only evolve when we can take a moment to stop and reevaluate the cycle we have created. We need to go back to Economics 101. Ultimately, what needs to happen is to lessen the tax burden, cut spending, and this in turn will generate more money. When people are confident that they have more money, they are more comfortable spending it. We then find ourselves in a completely different cycle. It is basic economics…you don’t spend money you don’t have.
Obama tells vets no to a lower drinking age
Obama tells vets no lower drinking age -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY
I sympathize with the military because I too am a veteran. I firmly believe that if you are old enough to defend and die for our country then you should be able to have a beer. Instead of lowering the drinking age to 18 for all citizens, how about just allowing those who serve our country (military, police, and firefighters) and have ID that shows they serve, let them have a drink. If you put your life on the line everyday to protect others, this country should not deny them a drink at 18. Granted everyone has to and should drink responsibly, but why should someone who is old enough to die in battle, fire, or patrolling the streets be denied a drink. When elected, I would propose a bill that would allow those serving our country in uniform the ability to have a drink with the proper ID at 18. It may sound discriminatory, but if you put your life on the line you should be able to drink (responsibly).
I sympathize with the military because I too am a veteran. I firmly believe that if you are old enough to defend and die for our country then you should be able to have a beer. Instead of lowering the drinking age to 18 for all citizens, how about just allowing those who serve our country (military, police, and firefighters) and have ID that shows they serve, let them have a drink. If you put your life on the line everyday to protect others, this country should not deny them a drink at 18. Granted everyone has to and should drink responsibly, but why should someone who is old enough to die in battle, fire, or patrolling the streets be denied a drink. When elected, I would propose a bill that would allow those serving our country in uniform the ability to have a drink with the proper ID at 18. It may sound discriminatory, but if you put your life on the line you should be able to drink (responsibly).
Friday, March 14, 2008
Congratulations to the 2008 Clifton Park Republican Committee Chairman's Award Recepients
Congratulations to Assembly Minority Leader, James Tedisco and Saratoga County Clerk, Kathy Marchione for receiving the 2008 Clifton Park Republican Committee Chairman's Award. An additional congratulations to Neil Weiner and Hugh Burke for receiving the Clifton Park GOP Volunteer Awards.
It was exciting to see such a large turnout in supporting these leaders within our community. With all that has transpired this past week, it was a pleasure to be a part of a unification of core Republican values and ideals. More than once, we were reminded of the strength and dedication it takes to do the right thing, as was the case of coming out against the proposal of issuing driver licenses to illegal aliens. The right choices and decisions are not always the easy ones and both Kathy Marchione and James Tedisco are fine examples of how we must lead by example, fight for what is right, and to never forget that we must speak for those who need a voice. I was very proud this evening to be in the company of so many people who share the same ideals as me. The awards were well deserved. Congratulations again!
It was exciting to see such a large turnout in supporting these leaders within our community. With all that has transpired this past week, it was a pleasure to be a part of a unification of core Republican values and ideals. More than once, we were reminded of the strength and dedication it takes to do the right thing, as was the case of coming out against the proposal of issuing driver licenses to illegal aliens. The right choices and decisions are not always the easy ones and both Kathy Marchione and James Tedisco are fine examples of how we must lead by example, fight for what is right, and to never forget that we must speak for those who need a voice. I was very proud this evening to be in the company of so many people who share the same ideals as me. The awards were well deserved. Congratulations again!
March 14, 2008
Welcome to my blog. The purpose of this blog is to act as a medium for you to get to know me and my platform. My goal is to maintain daily entries addressing current local and national issues. My intentions is that through the course of the entries you will have a better understanding of the issues that I am passionate about. Often times the entry may be a reaction to a news article, a legislative issue, or simply a basic opinion of what is on my mind. I invite any questions, comments, or concerns.
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