Interesting political intrigue and strange bedfellows

This is a cryptic e-mail we received yesterday and found it very interesting.

We are not sure what it means so we are posting the letter and hope that one of our readers can find the hidden meanings.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Threep Doat
~to me

Patrick Henry,

I have been reading your new blog site with great interest and have noticed a few familiar names appearing in some of the posts. It is amazing how much political intrigue and maneuvering is going on within your community and beyond its borders. I think you all need to look deeper and delve beneath the surface of what is actually happening. There are individuals with blinding political ambitions and the insatiable need for power who will plot, scheme and lie to achieve their goals. Deals have been made, promises offered and souls put up for sale to obtain political blackjack.

I will not reveal all I know, just give hints and clues for those interested to follow.

"In 23AD, there was a prince name Cire who wanted to lead the Emperor's district as a stepping stone to someday replace his master in the adobe council. Cire, however, enjoyed an unfair advantage because he was employed in the Emperor's public office and used the plebeians' taxes to finance his time and his scheme. More disturbing was his associations beyond his sphere for he lay in bed with Barbaric Heretics and Treacherous Neurotics to help him achieve his goals."

Good luck

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~Below is the actual email.



Please, if anyone has any idea what this might be pertaining to, we'd love to hear your thoughts!

Also, If Mr. Threep Doat would like to comment some more to add light to this, please do.

~P. Henry

Famous Queens Resident Series, Part XI

Christopher Walken
Academy Award winner for “The Deer Hunter,” was born in Astoria in 1943.

Nervous-looking lead and supporting actor of the American stage and films. He won an Oscar as best supporting actor for his performance in The Deer Hunter (1978). Seen in mostly supporting roles throughout the 80s and early 90s, often portraying psychologically unstable characters.

Mini Biography:

Amazingly versatile stage & screen actor with sandy colored hair, pale complexion and a somewhat nervous disposition. Has a reputation for playing mentally unbalanced characters on-screen, however that generalisation would not do justice to Walken's depth and breadth of performances. He learnt his stage craft, including dancing, at Hofstra University & ANTA, and picked up a Theatre World award for his performance in the revival of the Tennessee Williams play "The Rose Tattoo".

Walken then first broke through into cinema in 1969 appearing in Me and My Brother (1969), before appearing alongside Sean Connery in the sleeper heist movie The Anderson Tapes (1971). His eclectic work really came to the attention of critics in 1977 with his intense portrayal of Diane Keaton suicidal younger brother in Annie Hall (1977), and then he scooped the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award in 1977 for his role as Nick in the electrifying The Deer Hunter (1978). Walken was lured back by The Deer Hunter (1978) director Michael Cimino for a role in the financially disastrous western Heaven's Gate (1980), before moving onto surprise audiences with his wonderful dance skills in Pennies from Heaven (1981), taking the lead as a school teacher with telepathic abilities in the Stephen King inspired The Dead Zone (1983) and then as billionaire industrialist Max Zorin trying to blow up Silicon Valley in the 007 adventure A View to a Kill (1985).

Looking at many of Walken's other captivating screen roles, it is easy to see the diversity of his range and even his droll comedic talents with humorous appearances in Biloxi Blues (1988), Wayne's World 2 (1993), Joe Dirt (2001), Mousehunt (1997) and America's Sweethearts (2001). Most recently, he continued to surprise audiences again with his work as a heart broken and apologetic father to Leonardo DiCaprio in Catch Me If You Can (2002). Christopher Walken's talents continue to remain in high demand and movie audiences relish watching how capably he re-invents himself for each new challenging role.

Spouse:
Georgianne Walken(January 1969 - present)


Trade Mark:
Always tries to work a jig (dance) into his movies.
Haunting, dark humour filled monologues

Courtesy: www.IMDB.com

87.5% of New Yorkers Say. “Let A Jury Decide Gallagher’s Innocence”

In a recent non-scientific poll conducted by the Juniper Park Patriots we found that it is very likely that 87.5% of New Yorkers feel that Councilman Gallagher should be given his day in court and let the facts be presented to a jury. The poll also revealed that many people feel that a thorough investigation should be conducted, that Gallagher should be treated fairly and that everyone is entitled to be considered innocent until proven guilty. The poll was conducted with no scientific methodology and with minimal effort. The Patriots admit we have taken certain liberties when arriving at our conclusions but we consider that blogmatic license.

We would like to thank the Queens Courier and reporter Christina Santucci for providing us with the foundation for our data. In her recent “Street Talk” article (Volume 20 Number 33 August 9-15 2007 pg 19), Ms. Santucci posed the question, “Councilman Gallagher has admitted to adultery not rape…what do you think?

And here is what some people had to say…

“They should keep investigating. If they said he did it, then we have to find out the truth. To accuse someone of a crime wrongly without investigating ruins their character.”
- Francis Radicer, Ridgewood

“I’ve met him before, and I don’t think that he is capable of doing that. He is a nice man.”
- Zenaida Velinich, Ridgewood

“People have a responsibility to make sure that politicians and organizations are held accountable for their actions.”
- Elliot Bassman, Jackson Heights

“I believe that they should continue to investigate. I feel that he should be treated fairly like anyone else.”
- Donna Pagan, Howard beach

“I wasn’t there. I can’t pass judgment. They should continue to investigate.
- Anila Shiwlochan, Middle Village

“I think he is innocent but stupid for getting himself mixed up in that kind of trouble. The District Attorney should continue to look into it.”
- Nicole Russo, Middle Village

“They should continue to investigate the matter, of course. If he did it, then that’s a crime.”
- Born Allah, Middle Village

“I feel that he has done well for the community. I think they should throw out the grand jury because only one side-prosecutors-are heard. Many people in the community feel that he is being railroaded.”
- Joe Occhiuto, Middle Village


*Please be advised that this was a severely non-scientific poll with a correction factor of a plus or minus 98 points.

We conducted another poll and found that 96.4% of New Yorkers think that Bob Holden is a lunatic, a moron, a heartless human being and an overall town idiot.

Tony, Lorraine, Christina, Steve, Ed and Tony Avella thought Bob was O.K.

Way to Go Carol Terrano!

Let us give a big Patriots applause to Carol A. Terrano.




Please see below, the fantastic letter Carol Terrano wrote to the Queens Tribune in response to "Despicable Christina's" personal attack.

To The Editor:

Ms. Wilkinson’s response to my letter of July 26 proves my point – be careful with whom you disagree.

When I wrote to the Tribune, I never wrote as member of any organization, but obviously Ms. Wilkinson did a little research and all she could discover was my membership on a community board.

She ascribes various motives for my position re: Gallagher. For example, intimating I belong to a group of “female supporters” and was manipulated into writing on his behalf. Obviously she didn’t do her homework. I’ve never been introduced to the man–nor does he even know of my existence. Anyone who knows me realizes that any attempt at manipulating me would be unsuccessful; early in life I learned to think for myself.

The only motive I have for my position was a commitment to fair play and belief in the Constitution. We, as citizens of this wonderful country are protected by the Constitution – innocent until proven guilty.

Let Gallagher have his day in court; allow the system to work, its been around for over 200 years. Don’t try him in the media.

My suggestion to Ms. Wilkinson: Take a course in Civics 101. An allegation/accusation is not a fact until it is proven. Work on being a discriminating thinker and reader.

Nowhere in my letter did I allege that the entire JPCA conspired to railroad Gallagher. Of note, a recent New York Post article quotes an officer who admits that over seven months ago, he contacted DOI about Gallagher.

Ms. Wilkinson, use your energy and talents working with JPCA – don’t lower yourself to being used in personal petty attacks.

Carol A. Terrano,
Woodside

As it appears in the Queens Tribune under "Personal Attack"

"Let her tell her story, subject to cross examination"

On Monday’s “Inside City Hall,” Tom Ognibene, a close political ally and former boss of Dennis Gallagher, says he has some questions about the rape charges filed against the Queens lawmaker. Mr.Ognibene utilizes the same common sense and intelligence during this interview that made him a well respected elected official. We commend Mr. Ognibene for his straight forwardness and his no nonsense approach.

The quality of this clip isn't great, but the message is clear.

Once Again JPCA Shows Their Proclivity for Hatred

To The Editor:
I can’t begin to express my anger and disappointment in your printing a front page picture of a man holding a sign with a “noose” hanging from a lynching tree with the words, “Reserved for Gallagher, Bloomberg, Matt Gorton.” This is reminiscent of the mobs and knight-riders who terrorized communities in the South. The only thing missing was the hoods and Confederate Flag. The rope hanging from the tree is symbolic of the hundreds and even thousands of blacks who were lynched within the last century and is a despicable message to send to our young and old alike. There must be better ways for this organization to express their views without potentially insulting all people of color.

As an African American man, I demand an apology from the leaders of the Juniper Park Civic Association, Councilman Tony Avella, who has expressed an interest in running for Mayor of this diverse City, and anyone else connected to this hateful and insensitive display of conduct.

As an M.S.W. and human service provider, I would have thought that in the year 2007, we would have moved beyond this type of outrageous and absurd behavior. I wonder if these shameless folks would like to join me in demonstrating for a cause in South Jamaica.

Maurice Lacey,
Queens

Actual Letter from the Queens Tribune

A District Attorney Could Indict a Ham Sandwich

Unfortunately, a young lawyer right out of law school can get a grand jury to indict a ham sandwich. We should remember that an indictment is not a conviction. Moreover, we should be cognizant that many scholars have alleged that the grand jury no longer protects the weak or unpopular from judicial harassment or politically motivated prosecutions. The grand jury was created to function as a body of neighbors who would aid the state in bringing criminals to justice while protecting the innocent from unjust accusation. However, the grand jury has ceased to accomplish this original purpose and has become increasingly subject to debilitating exploitation and misuse. All of the major recent studies conclude that the grand jury has become, in effect, a rubber stamp of the prosecutor and not the check on his or her power that it is required to be.

Indictment by grand jury affords none of the fundamental rights provided in a criminal trial. Unless he or she is called as a witness, the defendant has neither the right to appear and present evidence to the grand jury nor to confront witnesses against them. Only the district attorney may appear and present evidence giving a defendant an unfair disadvantage. Even if called as a witness, a defendant may not have the assistance of counsel to advise him. Furthermore, the grand jury is "not required to hear evidence for the defendant," and may reject such evidence at the very outset. Without hearing the evidence in the first place, the opportunity to determine whether evidence exists to "explain away the charge" is in effect suppressed, virtually assuring the finding of an indictment on the basis of "unexplained or uncontradicted" evidence. When the function of indictment is coupled with the responsibility of determining the character of the evidence that supports it, and with the right to exclude all evidence that could explain or contradict, the result is not appropriate. In short, it is both derogatory of the jury's basic purpose and devoid of fairness.

Let us remember that a defendant who is subject to indictment by grand jury is denied the right to present evidence to explain or contradict the charge, has no right to appear or to have the assistance of counsel, and may not confront and cross-examine the witnesses against him. Councilman Gallagher has not been convicted of a crime and will have the opportunity to present evidence that will exonerate him during his trial.

We are all innocent until proven guilty.

Gallagher Takes a Brave Stand before Grand Jury

Councilman Dennis Gallagher decided to testify and tell his side of the story despite his lawyer advising him not to appear before the grand jury. One can surmise that Gallagher decided to testify because he is innocent of the charges against him and he believes he will be exonerated. Even court experts say it is relatively unusual for someone accused of a crime to take the stand before the grand jury, unless that person is truly innocent.

The Councilman faced the grand jury and admitted that he committed adultery and not rape when he had sex with the woman he met at the bar. Not surprisingly, his accuser is calling him a liar and his testimony is bullshit, but according to police reports it seems that the woman is one that is not telling the truth. One example is that despite her claims of having bruises all over her body, police reports do not mention these bruises. In addition, further supporting Gallagher’s claim was the testimony of the neighbor who lives next to the councilman’s campaign office. The neighbor told police that he did not hear any screams or any commotion that evening, but he did notice the lights on in the office and heard people conversing. This account does not support that a violent and vicious attack happened that evening inside the office.

We believe that Councilman Dennis Gallagher showed a lot courage by testifying and not hiding behind procedural law and attorney advice. He could have easily declined to appear before the grand jury but he decided that he would show the public that he has nothing to hide. Based upon the evidence and the testimony given, we hope that the District Attorney declines to prosecute.


NY Daily News


NY Times

Even a Broken Clock is Right Twice A Day!

The Juniper Park Patriots were shocked and a little bit nauseous when we found ourselves agreeing with Councilman Tony Avella.

With that said, we support Mr. Avella’s fight (Resolution No. 930) to include the nativity/crèche scene to be displayed in public schools along with the menorah and the Islamic star and crescent symbols during the winter holiday season.

The Department of Education, in their infinite wisdom (or lack thereof) believes by allowing Christmas trees to be displayed along with the menorah and the Islamic star and crescent, they are being fair to Christians/Catholics and their beliefs. Unfortunately, the DOE is incorrect in this assertion because the Christmas tree is nothing more than a pagan symbol and not a religious symbol like the menorah or crescent star.

Mr. Avella stated that, "My resolution is purely about inclusion. By adding a Nativity scene/crèche to the holiday display, Christianity will receive equal representation with other religious faiths during the holiday season. These are the kinds of fair and common sense things I want to change in this city."

We may choke on our dirty water dog, but damn it, we agree with Avella. The catholic religion should be given equal inclusion in NYC public schools during the winter holiday season. More importantly, the DOE should live up to its promise that they will encourage children and help them to develop an understanding and respect for other cultures and beliefs.

We urge other city council members to support Resolution 930 which would demand that if the Department of Education allows the Jewish menorah and the Islamic star and crescent symbols to be displayed in the public schools in the winter holiday season, then nativity/crèche scenes should also be on display.

We applaud (while gagging) Councilman Avella for standing up to the Department of Education and demanding they give equal treatment to all religions. We also hope that Avella stays out of Middle Village and Maspeth to concentrate more on Auburndale, Bayside, Bayside Hills, Bay Terrace, Beechhurst, Bowne Park, Clearview, College Point, Douglaston, Flushing North, Little Neck, Malba, Robinwood, and Whiestone and attend to his constituents’ needs.

Surprisingly, there seems to be a glimmer of intelligence and common sense in Avella and we hope that he will soon see that Bob Holden and Tony Nuziato will eventually drag him down, tarnish his reputation and hurt his bid for mayor.

NY Daily News

Famous Queens Resident Series, Part X

Burt Young - The famous character actor seen in the “Rocky” films once lived near Bell Boulevard in Bayside

Mini Bio: Burly, talented character actor who has remained consistently busy playing "rough at the edge" type characters, often on the wrong side of the law. Young was born Jerry De Louise on April 30 1940 in New York City, where he received his dramatic arts training under legendary acting coach Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio.

Young first gathered notice playing tough thugs in such films as The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight (1971), Across 110th Street (1972), Chinatown (1974) and The Gambler (1974). Fiery director Sam Peckinpah cast Young as the getaway driver / assassin, "Mac", in The Killer Elite (1975), and Young came to the attention of newcomer Sylvester Stallone, who cast him as future brother-in-law 'Paulie' in the 1976 sleeper hit Rocky (1976). The talented Young was nominated for an Oscar, and has gone on to reprise the role in all five "Rocky" sequels to date! Peckinpah re-hired him to play renegade trucker "Pigpen" in the moderately successful Convoy (1978) (watch for "Pigpen's" Mack truck where the writing on the door states "Paulie Hauling"!).

Young has also appeared in numerous other major productions, including Once Upon a Time in America (1984), The Pope of Greenwich Village (1984), Last Exit to Brooklyn (1989), Mickey Blue Eyes (1999) and The Adventures of Pluto Nash (2002).

Courtesy of www.IMDB.com

Stay Tuned

Way to Go Mr. Frank Giovanniello!

Let us give a big Patriots applause to Mr. Frank Giovanniello.




Please see below, the fantastic letter Mr. Giovanniello wrote to the Forest Hills Ledger. We couldn’t have stated it better ourselves.


Holden must blame himself for CB 5 committee ouster

Robert Holden was voted out of Community Board 5's executive committee because of his own actions. He has proven himself incompetent for the public positions he has held.
For the last two years, every time there is an article involving neighborhood issues, his response is that Councilman Dennis Gallagher (R-Middle Village) is conspiring against him and the United States.

Holden should do himself and the community a service and step down from his positions on the community board and Juniper Park Civic Association. His accusations are tired and unfounded, and make him look the fool.

I have read how, in Holden's eyes, Gallagher is to blame for stories such as:

1) The formation of the Maspeth Civic Association

2) Dogs unleashed in the parks

3) St. Saviour's Church's demise

4) Developer Tommy Huang

5) His ouster from CB 5's executive committee

6) The inability of the Community Board to think for itself

7) The two-month reconstruction of Eliot Avenue

How about Donald Trump vs. Rosey O'Donnell in the next Wrestlemania? Where does it end? Juniper Park Civic Association: Wake up. Holden, step down and go away.

Frank Giovanniello

Ridgewood

Ledger Article

Way to Go Mr. Vince Tabone!

Let us give a big Patriots applause to Mr. Vince Tabone.




Please see below, the fantastic letter Mr. Tabone wrote to the Forest Hills Ledger. We couldn’t have stated it better ourselves.


Avella's Sonny Carson vote shows he's not fit for mayor

Council Member Tony Avella's defense of his Sonny Carson vote in the name of legislative practice and celebration of diversity further reinforces that Avella cannot and should not be entrusted with higher office.
By Avella's reckoning, if a community in New York wishes to rename a street after Pol Pot or Saddam Hussein or a skinhead, Council representatives are precluded by procedural habit and multiculturalism from standing up for decency and saying no.

Avella's reasoning is that much more spurious in the face of the fact that within his own council district there is a Chabad House dedicated to the memory of murdered rabbinical scholar Yankel Rosenbaum, a man whose death Sonny Carson applauded.

We know Avella is aware of the presence of the Yankel Rosenbaum Community Center because he vehemently opposed its expansion. Avella's defense is rendered all the more peculiar by Sonny Carson's role in demagoguing Korean store owners with intimidation and threats, given the large Korean-American population in Avella's own district and Avella's own caustic battles with area Asian grocers and shopkeepers through the years.

Avella's vote for Sonny Carson cannot be so readily explained away by calls for "celebrat[ing] diversity" and legislative practice, given his own history and obligations to his own constituents.

Avella has been unceasingly vocal when he has felt the need - opposing synagogues, churches, home expansions, zoning, the mayor, city agencies and cell towers. Now we are to believe he is powerless to exercise leadership and say no to permanent celebration of an anti-white, anti-Semitic demagogue when most of his Council colleagues in Queens did have the courage and good sense to vote no?

Indeed, the majority of Democrats, all Republicans and even New York's independent mayor recognized the right thing to do. Not Avella. Avella is pursuing higher office, supposedly mayor. Perhaps he let his ambitions cloud his judgment. He would have better served his case had he just admitted he erred. Voters in Queens want leadership, not excuses for pandering. Voters should remember to vote no on Avella.

Vince Tabone

Bayside

Ledger

Beware Holden, Nunziato, Fielder and Wilkinson are Stalking in a Park Near You!

Frighteningly, Bob Holden, Tony Nunziato, Steve Fielder and Christina Wilkinson are stalking Councilman Gallagher during his recreation time with friends. It is awfully creepy that these morally deficient individuals are so obsessed with Mr. Gallagher that they hide behind bushes, park benches and port-o-potties in parks to get a picture of the councilman playing basketball. They even accuse Councilman Gallagher of not attending committee hearings, so we called the city hall clerk’s office to find out the truth. According to a city hall representative, their records prove that Councilman Gallagher attended a 10:30 Housing and Buildings committee hearing and at 11:00am attended a Finance committee meeting. In addition, the councilman attended the stated council meeting and voted on all pieces of legislation presented to the body. According to sources, session lasted until approximately 4:45pm. So not only are the four stooges stalking they are lying too!

Let’s get back to basketball in the park. In the past people close to Mr. Gallagher have stated that Dennis has always been an avid basketball player, plays on a couple of adult leagues and is a damn good shooter from the floor. According to spectators, the Councilman scored 17 points with 5 assists and helped his team to victory that evening. The Queens Crap states that “white men” can’t jump (a bit racist) but who needs to jump when you can score at will from the paint! More importantly, I don’t believe that any sane individual would condemn a person for enjoying his or her own leisure time and trying to keep in shape by participating in organized sports. But then again, are we dealing with sane individuals when dealing with Bob and his misguided Muppets?

The Patriots are deeply concerned regarding the mental health of Bob Holden, Tony Nunziato, Steve Fielder and Christina Wilkinson. Stalking is a serious issue and psychologists have conducted extensive studies regarding this disturbing act.

Stalking is defined as "the willful, malicious and repeated following and harassing of another person" (Meloy, 1998). (Bob Holden and his malicious smurfs are text book stalkers!)

Types of Stalkers:
Zona and colleagues (1993) have delineated three types of stalkers which are as follows:

Simple Obsessional:
A prior relationship exists between the victim and the stalker which includes the following:
Acquaintance, neighbor, customer, professional relationship, dating, and lover
The stalking behavior begins after either:
The relationship has gone “sour”, or
The offending individual perceives some mistreatment
The stalker begins a campaign either to rectify the schism, or to seek some type of retribution

(Do you know of any group or person that falls into the category? JPCA! Bob Holden!)

Erotomania:
Based on the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, 4th ed. (DSM-IV, 4th ed.)
The central theme of the delusion is that another person is in love with the individual
The delusion often concerns idealized romantic love and spiritual union rather than sexual attraction — “a perfect match”
The object of affection is usually of a higher status and can be a complete stranger
Efforts to contact the victim are common, but the stalker may keep the delusion a secret
Males, seen most often in forensic samples, come into contact with the law during misguided pursuits to “rescue” the individual from some imagined danger. Females are seen most often in clinical samples

(I over heard Tony tell someone that he loves the way Gallagher sweats on the basketball court)

Love Obsessional:
Similar to the erotomanic individuals:
The victim is almost always known through the media.
The delusion that the victim loves them may also be held
The erotomanic delusion is but one of several delusions and psychiatric symptoms — this individual has a primary psychiatric diagnosis
These individuals may be obsessed in their love, without having the belief that the target is in love with them
A campaign is begun to make his/her existence known to the victim

(Christina Wilkenson has an unhealthy infatuation with the councilman)

Here are some other classifications of stalkers…..you can probably ascribe each classification to a member of the Juniper Park Civic Association’s executive board

The Rejected:
* As a result of a relationship dissolution (i.e. estrangement, disruptions, break-ups) from an ex-partner (but inclusive of a parent, friend, or work associate) this type of stalker can be observed desiring a mixture of reconciliation and revenge.
* This individual often experiences feelings of loss, frustration, anger, jealousy, malevolence, and depression.
* The Simple Obsessional subtype given above closely approximates this type of stalker.

The Intimacy Seeker:
* These stalkers pursue an intimate relationship with an individual perceived as their true love, but their attentions are not wanted by the object of their affection.
* The type of stalkers who fall into this category often have a delusional disorder (i.e. erotomania). Those who represent "intimacy seekers" may suffer from other disorders (i.e. schizophrenia, mania) or hold morbid infatuations.
* Erotomania and Love Obsessional best represent this category.

The Incompetent:
* These intellectually limited and socially incompetent individuals desire intimacy, but the object of their affection does not reciprocate these feelings.
* They often lack sufficient skills in courting rituals.
* They may also display a sense of entitlement: believing they deserve a partner, but lack the ability or desire to engage in subdued, preliminary interpersonal relations.
* Another aspect of these stalkers is that they may have had previous stalking victims.
* Unlike the intimacy seekers, those in the incompetent category do not view the victim as having unique qualities; they are not infatuated with the victim -- only attracted, and do not assert that the affection is mutual.

The Resentful:
* The goal of this stalker is to frighten and distress the victim.
* These stalkers may also experience feelings of injustice and desire revenge.

The Predatory:
* The power and control that comes from stalking a victim gives these stalkers a great deal of enjoyment.
* The stalker often strives to learn more about the victim.
* The stalker may even mentally rehearse a plan to attack the victim.
* Most of these stalkers are diagnosed paraphilias and, compared to the previous four categories, they were more likely to have histories of sexual offense convictions

As a result of our research and the actions of the mentally unstable JPCA loons we have contacted the mental health division of the Human Resource Administration and ask them to intervene. We stated that Bob, Tony, Steve, and Christina need serious help because they pose a serious threat to themselves, the community and the human race. We have also alerted the local authorities and submitted an EDP complaint (that’s emotionally disturbed person) against the frightful foursome. To the members of the Maspeth and Middle Village community, we suggest that you lock your doors and windows until the stalkers either stop their unsettling behavior or they move away.

Gallagher Returns to City Hall

According to NY 1, Councilman Dennis Gallagher returned to City Hall to attend committee hearings and stated council meeting. The Councilman stopped briefly to address reporters and stated, Listen, I'm innocent, I’m innocent of the charges, I know that I will be vindicated in the long run and I’m going about my business. On a daily basis I’ve been in the office. I’ve been working on issues related to my district and I continue to do my job.”

To date, no charges have been filed against Councilman Gallagher and he expects to have his name cleared when all the facts are presented.

Does it surprise anyone else that the District Attorney’s office is taking so long to make a decision regarding this case? According to everything we read in the papers about the incident, the account told by the alleged victim and the so-called evidence you would think Gallagher would be behind bars by now. Could it be that you can’t believe everything you read in the papers? There are two sides to every story? The evidence paints a different picture?

We at the Patriots commend Gallagher for doing his job and representing his community under these stressful conditions. We also hope that he will be cleared of all charges and that he is fully exonerated of any wrong doing.

We are aware that “some” people are going to be screaming that the Patriots support Gallagher. We would like to go on the record and say, yes we do support Gallagher. However, we also support:

Senator Serph Maltese
Congressman Joe Crowley
Congressman Anthony Weiner
Assemblywoman Marge Markey
Councilman Tom Ognibene
Mayor Bloomberg
Judge Richard Brown
Commissioner Ray Kelly
Rudy Giuliani

That’s about it right now.

God Bless America.

Congress blindfolding Vigilant Americans?

Photo Courtesy of CoxandForkum.com



Back On April 23, the Patriots commended Congressman Peter King for his efforts to try to protect American citizens from being sued after reporting suspicious activity.

Congressman Peter King Fights To Protect Our Security

Currently, there is an important piece of legislation (H.R. 1 and S. 4) to implement more anti-terrorism recommendations brought forth by the findings of the 9/11 Commission. However, this important legislation is in jeopardy of not being passed because of the debate regarding whether citizens who report suspicious activity should be immune to lawsuits.

Republicans demanded that a provision be added to the legislation affording immunity to citizens who report suspicious activity. This stemmed form an incident where six Muslim scholars were removed from a flight in Minneapolis after other passengers said they were acting suspiciously. Consequently, the imams have since filed a lawsuit, saying their civil rights were violated.

Democrats are arguing that the wording of the measure is too broad and would protect even those who knowingly and maliciously call in a false "tip." While Congressman King, the author of the provision, states, "Every issue has been resolved except the immunity for good people who report suspicious activity.” He also accuses that Democrats are “caving” to lawsuit loving liberals.

This legislation is too important to stall because of the “language” of a particular provision. Especially when that provision protects vigilant and watchful Americans, who, in good faith reports suspicious activities to authorities. The Patriots suggest you contact your representatives in Washington and urge them to keep the immunity section (King Amendment) in the final bill.

Senator Chuck Schumer
New York City
757 Third Avenue
Suite 17-02
New York, NY 10017
Phone: 212-486-4430

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton
780 Third Ave
Suite 2601
New York, NY 10017
Phone: (212) 688-6262

Spitzer Spitting Mad Over Spitzergate

It is apparent that Governor Spitzer’s image as the great reformer and fighter of corruption is as genuine as his office’s fabricated story that Senator Joe Bruno misused state owned aircraft for traveling purposes. Ironically, during Spitzer’s campaign for governor he vowed to be a reform steamroller and flatten anyone in Albany that misused their power or betrayed the public trust. Unfortunately, the Governor failed to mention that he would use any means necessary to steamroll over his political enemies too.

Spitzergate is just another example of political abuse and the misappropriation of government resources for personal gain. Spitzer doesn’t even have the courage to take full responsibility, instead he suspends, demotes and reassigns key members of his staff (or scapegoats) to divert attention and blame away from him.

It is no secret that Spitzer has sent a clear message to his staff and other Albany insiders. The message is that he will stop at nothing to destroy his political opponents and loosen the grip of the republican controlled senate. It is no secret that Eliot Blitzer is a driven politician who will stop at nothing to further his agenda or vendettas.

Spitzer however should be more concerned about his fellow democrats who might be vying for his job in 2010. With friends like Attorney General Andrew Cuomo releasing scathing reports, who needs republican enemies?

NY Post Article

You Tube or Political Boob Tube?

The revolutionary video sharing internet site “You Tube” will continue to exert its growing influence on the political scene as it hosts a presidential debate for the 2008 democratic candidates. The groundbreaking debate format will allow the eight Democratic hopefuls to square off against each other and answer voters' questions submitted via video. It has been reported that the range of video questions submitted range from the silly (a woman in a bathrobe singing a plea to the candidates to do something about telephone call center outsourcing), to extremely personal (two women asking the candidates if they would allow them to marry each other) and very serious (two men with their elderly mother who has Alzheimer's. As one of the sons feeds their mother with a spoon, he asks what the candidates are prepared to do to fight the debilitating disease). I’m sure, however, that all of the candidates will be fully briefed and there will be no surprises to any of the candidates. You Tube would do much better if they could guarantee their audiences that the candidates have no idea what video questions have been received and who will answer them.

Irregardless, You Tube is becoming an influential medium in changing people’s perceptions on political issues and presidential hopefuls. Whether it is a video clip from Obama Girl or Hillary’s Clinton latest ad spoofing the Soprano’s final episode, people are tuning it to see what the candidates and other people have to say. More importantly, political consultants and advisors are paying close attention to this new venue to see how they can capitalize on the “You Tube” and “blogosphere” information highway.

New York Times

Hillary Clinton: SOPRANOS SPOOF


Obama Girl: I GOT A CRUSH ON OBAMA


Both Videos Courtesy of youtube.com

He Refs! He Bets! He Scores!

NBA referee, Tim Donaghy is feeling the pressure from every side imaginable after an investigation revealed his involvement in a gambling ring. Federal authorities state that they have information that Donaghy bet on sports and NBA basketball games, including some games that he officiated. However, So far investigators do not have any evident that would indicate that Donaghy threw games or tried to shave points.
This is not sitting well with Phoenix Sun’s fans who felt that they were robbed in Game 3 of the Suns-Spurs Western Conference semifinals on May 12. Fans have longed complained that the game was filled with bad calls, bad non-calls, egregiously late calls and a horrible display of officiating. Can you guess who refereed this game? You got it! Who did that game? Eddie F. Rush, Greg Willard and Tim “place a bet” Donaghy. Read the Fox News Sport Article Did Donaghy fix Game 3 of Suns-Spurs?
FOX Sports

However, angry fans and irate NBA officials are the least of Mr. Donaghy worries because it seems that the Gambino’s may be a little concerned that the ref will blow the whistle in court. Authorities are examining whether the referee made calls to affect the point spread in games on which he or associates had wagered thousands of dollars over the past two seasons. Authorities say the referee had a gambling problem and was approached by low-level mob associates through an acquaintance. Tim Donaghy had local lawmen at his Florida home Sunday because of threatening phone calls he's received. According to unidentified law enforcement sources, Donaghy will cooperate with authorities and possibly name other officials, participants and players involved in the betting scandal.
NY Post Article

I feel sorry for Mr. Donaghy because there are going to be so many different people out for revenge because of his indiscretion. The fans, NBA officials, sports bettors, bookies and the mob are going to demand his head on a platter.

Midville Dodgers Basebrawl “Baseball like it shouldn’t be”

It has come to our attention that Midville Dodger coaches involved in nurturing young ball players are teaching them more than throwing baseballs. It seems they have added throwing punches to the sports curriculum. According to our sources, at least one coach was arrested because of a violent physical altercation. Coach Anthony Macchirule was busted at Juniper Boulevard South and 71st Street for assault by Detective Musloso. Rumor has it that the assault was a violent response to a close and over zealous play at the plate prompting the coach to physically attack a young ballplayer. I bet you Pee Wee Reese is very upset right now because this is not what little league baseball should be teaching our young impressionable children while wearing Dodger blue.

Youth sports are great for kids if we keep things in perspective and teach them positive behavior. The ultimate goal of little league baseball is raising honest, responsible kids who demonstrate genuine respect for others and this is the greatest reward for any parent or coach involved with youth baseball. Clearly, the Midville Dodgers, Robert Holden and its leadership need to learn this lesson, and they can only accomplish this by the example that is set by coaches and league administrators. Hopefully, concerned parents will demand that some disciplinary actions are taking, ask that coaches attend anger management courses, start requiring background checks for all coaches and request a much needed change in leadership to ensure that this type of violent outbursts do not happen again. Our young ball players deserve the very best.

Playing Dangerous Political Game with New York’s Safety

The Federal Government is sending a clear message to New Yorkers, “You’re on your own in protecting yourselves from terrorist.” The Federal Government is ignoring the fact that New York City is considered and remains the number one target by terrorists. The intelligence community has discovered through confiscated plans and evidence gathered that our city is still the primary target by Al Qaeda. Despite these chilling reports, New York gets a disproportionate amount of Homeland Security funding compared to cities across the country less likely to be attacked. Here are some numbers regarding anti-terror funds on a per capita basis:


New York City - $134 million = $17 per person
St. Louis - $9 million = $27 per person
Washington DC - $62 million = $111 per person
Kansas City Mo - $8 million = $19 per person
Fort Lauderdale - $7 million = $43 per person

Amazingly, New Jersey will receive an 18 percent increase in funding this year compared to a 7 percent increase to New York City. Even cities like El Paso and Memphis are getting large sums of money to protect them against the threat of terrorism. The Patriots have nothing against other cities across the United States and want them to remain safe, but come on, are the terrorists really interested in bombing Graceland?, the El Paso zoo? Anheuser Bush brewery (although that would be a tragedy) or a Florida beach? No they’re not and we know it and the Feds better start understanding it.


I hope that our representatives in the federal government actively start fighting for the amount of funding that is fair for New York City. This is an important issue that should not be victim to the political game and back room deals. New York City is undeniably the center of the world and therefore it is should not be denied the money it needs to protect itself from terrorist attacks.

Patriot Experiences Explosion and Panic First Hand

I was waiting for the train in Grand Central Station when the ground began to shake violently. At first there was no sense from those waiting for their trains that there was anything wrong, until the explosion. It felt like nothing I have ever experienced before. Everything shook and some people were knocked off their feet by the percussion. This is when the panic began and people began running for the exits. With 9/11 still fresh in New Yorkers minds, they desperately tried to escape Grand Central Station even if it meant trampling over slower people. Thankfully, I was able to assist an older woman by pulling her closer to the wall and we side stepped up the stairs to avoid the stampede of frantic people. Once we hit the street we witnessed the rising smoke (which I later found out was steam). It was a very scary experience because everyone thought that this was another terrorist attack. I saw the fear and terror in the eyes of everyone fleeing the station. I was extremely happy that I was able to get home safe to be with my family.

The one thing that was abundantly clear is that New York is still suffering from the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Although, we are resilient and go through our daily lives like September 11 is a distant memory, we can be transported back in an instant. The fear, the panic and the horror permeated the streets of midtown until information about what really happened was revealed. Let us remain vigilant and diligent about what is going on around us and urge our law enforcement agencies to continue their fight to keep us safe from terrorism.

I commute on a daily basis into Manhattan. If you do also, I am sure that you are well aware of the ‘See Something, Say Something’ campaign. Now I totally agree that always being aware and keeping your eyes open are critical. However, what do you do AFTER something like this happens?

I know that there are certain practices and protocol to follow in emergency situations but this needs to be released to the public on a large scale. I believe that the panic and mayhem I witnessed could be lessened if people had more information on how to react.

In addition, we should all thank the police and fire department who were on the scene immediately and were able to take control of the situation instantly.

Daily News Article: Volcano on 41st Street

The Boys of Blunder

Mayor Michael Bloomberg is reeling from the New York State Legislature’s failure to take decisive action concerning congesting pricing. He’s gone so far as telling Spitzer, Bruno and Silver that they don’t have the guts to lead from the front. I hope that Iron Mike is not surprised about the actions of the “big boys” up in Albany because this has been their modus operendi for decades. The very same type of actions or lack thereof that Spitzer had vowed to change but was amazingly silent during the congestion pricingsummit.


Congestion pricing has become a hot topic with both sides being very passionate and persuasive as to the plan’s ultimate effectiveness in solving the traffic problem. However, everyone can agree that something needs to be done and soon. One thing is for certain, inaction, pandering, and political chess will do little to ameliorate the horrendous congestion problem in Manhattan. Ultimately, we need money to vastly improve our mass transit system, we need real solutions in limiting car traffic and we need our politicians to act now.

Please share your thoughts on congestion pricing.

Feds take a bite out of Vick

Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Michael Vick along with three other men were indicted yesterday on charges of illegal dog fighting. If convicted they could face up to 6 years in prison and be ordered to pay $350,000 in fines. Apparently, “Bad Newz Kennels” located on Vick’s property was used to house and train vicious pit bulls for upcoming fights. Illegal dogfight has become a popular sport among high-priced athletes and musicians causing the feds to probe deeper into the problem.

Consequently, numerous dogs have inhumanely fought to the death or have lost their lives because of injuries sustained. You would think with all the money these morons make they could find better and more responsible entertainment outlets. You have to love the quote by the NFL, “We are disappointed that Michael Vick has put himself in a position where a federal grand jury has returned an indictment against him.”

How many times do we have to hear an NFL spokesperson spew some lame response to another football player’s indiscretion or criminal act?

Maybe they should keep their players on a shorter leash.

NY Daily News Article

Queens Hero Laid To Rest

The Patriots want to send our sympathies, condolences and sincerest thanks to the Wilson family of Springfield Gardens. Their son Le Ron Wilson made the ultimate sacrifice as an Army soldier serving in Iraq protecting the freedoms of Americans. Le Ron Wilson was killed by a roadside bomb on July 6th. He was only 18 years old and had been in Iraq for just three months.

Let us keep the Wilson family and all the men and women in our armed services in our prayers. Rest in peace my fallen brother.


NY Daily News Article

Development or Preservation?

Individuals have asked if the Patriots support or oppose saving St. Saviour’s and we would like to take this opportunity to answer. We believe that St. Saviour’s should be saved and preserved. Anytime, the community has the opportunity to preserve some of its rich history and provide green space for residents it should be taken. We also believe, however, that reasonable development can benefit the economic and social growth of a neighborhood. There should be a healthy balance between preservation and development to ensure that all needs of the community are met.

Unfortunately, the reality is that some plots of land cannot be saved for various reasons and the community is at the mercy of the developer. Certain groups, however, want to place the blame solely on elected officials but we feel that the responsibility is shared by many different agencies, administrations, and individuals. Let’s not forget the complicity of the Landmarks Commission, City planning, Board of Standards and Appeals and the Mayor’s office.

More importantly, nothing ever gets accomplished when there is nothing but finger pointing, grandstanding and character assassinations. The Patriots think we should start having intelligent, responsible and respectful conversations between residents and those who make the decisions regarding preservation and development. Let us start identifying locations in our area that we need to preserve or possibly use for public green space before they are put up for sale, sold, bought and torn down. It is time to start being proactive instead of reactive in a negative manner.

We support:

Saving St. Saviour’s
Reasonable development
More parks and green space
Preserving our history

We hope that this answer your questions.

Salacious, Scandalous and Sensationalistic

It is apparent that the New York Post is more concerned with being first rather than being responsible. In today's Sunday paper they printed an exclusive interview with the alleged victim despite the on-going investigation by police. Once again, the press is more concerned with selling papers and sensationalizing a story rather than being concerned with the truth and being innocent until proven guilty.

In addition, It was no surprise to see Bob Holden being quoted in the article and it should raise some concern among our community since Bob has nothing to do with the investigation. The only thing Bob is trying to do is further his vindictive agenda campaign against his detractors. Even more disgraceful, is that some of Bob's cronies were seen attaching copies of news articles regarding the case on utility poles throughout Middle Village.

My fellow neighbors, please do not believe everything you read and do not rush to judgement. Let's wait to see what facts are presented and what the court decides. The court of public opinion can be dangerous and does little to ensure justice.

Despicable Christina Wilkinson (Bob, Tony, Lorraine and Ed too)

During last night’s Community Board 5 meeting Ms. Wilkinson regurgitated a written speech she wrote to express her concern regarding trees that were being cut down on the St Savior’s property. This is perfectly acceptable and within her right, however, to include the below statement in her rant was despicable, hateful, shameful and contemptible:

“We don’t need an investigation or a trial to determine if Dennis Gallagher is a rapist. It’s obvious that Councilman Gallagher rapes every one of his constituents on a daily basis by selling out our community and our history to developers. Thank you.”

The idiot claims that the statement she made was nothing more than “…political commentary, which, correct me if I am wrong, is protected speech under the First Amendment. “

Oh poor delusional Christina, she believes that people are stupid and are unable to see through her timely strategic use of words. Thankfully, under the leadership of Chairman Arcuri, he quickly realized the intent behind Wilkinson’s closing remarks and removed the microphone from her hand. Now Chrissy is yelling that her first amendment rights have been violated. Where was Christina when Bob ripped the microphone from a PTA mom who was expressing her ideas in a respectful manner? You see, the JPCA uses the First Amendment when it suits their purposes.

Dumb Christina also stated that she was surprised when, “there were board members screaming, "Innocent until proven guilty!"

Ok Christina, try to follow along here, the presumption of innocence or “innocent until proven guilty” is as constitutionally important as the first amendment. Therefore, the same way you are so upset that your first amendment rights were infringed upon, people attending the meeting were equally passionate about the very foundation of the American judicial system. I know Chrissy, the United States Constitution does not cite innocent until proven guilty explicitly, however, presumption of innocence is widely held to follow from the 5th, 6th and 14th amendments. So please don’t wrap yourself in the constitution if you are unwilling to allow others the same courtesy. If you need further clarification, please send us an e-mail.

This next statement by Wilkey is real winner, “The people who were upset were more offended by my use of the word "rapist" to describe Gallagher than they were about the damage to the trees at St. Saviour's!”

All I can really say to this delusional statement is “DUH”

It is extremely sad that Bob Holden and his lackeys are obvious reveling in the misery of a fellow human-being; however, because of their wicked nature, a person’s misfortune is not enough. Therefore, they are increasing their attacks by bringing up old stories, making inflammatory statements and creating fliers for distribution to bring their vicious attacks to people’s homes. Unfortunately, this is what we have come to expect from the executive board of the JPCA and its President Bob Holden.


I am confident, however, that the fine people of Middle Village and Maspeth despite what side they support or the political beliefs they hold, still believe that honor, dignity and respect are of paramount importance.

Manhunt For Attempted Cop Killers Over

Today, the NYPD captured the last of the three animals who shot Police Officers Herman Yan & Russel Timoshenko. Thankfully, Officer Yan, the brave police officer who returned fire after being shot, returned home to his family to recover from his wounds, however, Police Officer Timoshenko lies in the hospital on life support clinging to his young life.
NY 1 story

I’m sure, both families and the entire city of New York are proud of men and women of the NYPD for capturing these bastards so they can face trial.
NY Daily News Article

Lee Woods, Dexter Bostick and Robert Ellis deserve the death penalty for their attempts on the officer’s lives.

Let’s stop the debate and let’s start protecting the New York’s bravest from being shooting targets. Fry these menaces to society.

Our prayers and thoughts go out to the Timoshenko family and hope that by some miracle Police Officer Timoshenko makes a full recovery. Our sincerest thanks and gratitude to Officer Han and the NYPD for their bravery and their commitment to protecting all New Yorkers.
NY Daily News Article

Two Major Milestones for the Juniper Park Patriots

It is time for us to take a moment and congratulate ourselves on reaching two important milestones. Today we have reached 100 posts and 20,000 hits!

In just a short period of time we have become one of the most important blog spots in the entire world (well maybe not the entire world, but definitely the western hemisphere). We would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to our supporters and our detractors because without you we would just be another piece of crap.

We look forward to continuing our meaningless work and doing our best to opine on issues that strike our fancy. As always we encourage you to visit us, comment and share your ideas.


Milestones must be concrete, specific, measurable events, defined with knife-edge sharpness. - Frederick P. Brooks, Jr.

Al Gore: Global Stupidity

It looks like Live Earth concert received dead ratings. The main three-hour American TV broadcast on NBC averaged an abysmal 2.7 million viewers, ranking as the least-watched US program on Saturday night, and falling below NBC's summer prime-time Saturday average, Nielsen Media Research reported on Monday. Even the rival ABC's rerun of the animated Monsters Inc had a bigger audience — 3.3 million. It was the same story in Britain, where BBC1's coverage of the Live Earth climax at London's Wembley Stadium, leading up to Madonna's eagerly awaited finale, averaged 3.1 million viewers, compared with 11.4 million for the Princess Diana tribute.

Even more unsettling was the amount of energy expended to put on the concert. It was estimated that with all the private jets, the countless buses, the stadium lights, the power used for instruments and the garbage created did more harm to the Earth than the concert did for global warming awareness. Once again, Al Gore and his air headed celebrities missed the mark. If all those morons would have stayed home and saved all that energy needed to power stadium lights and the sound systems of all the concerts held, they would have made a real contribution to combating global warming.

In addition to bad performances, audiences were treated to foul language and lyrics filled with expletives. Wasn’t it Al and Tipper who grilled musicians on their song lyrics forcing artists to put parental-warning labels on cd’s? But Al had no problem sharing the spotlight with foul-mouthed artists like Madonna, Chris Rock and Kayne West who’s dialogues and songs containing derogatory sexual and racial rants in exchange for promoting his inconvenient truth. The only inconvenient truth is that Al Gore and his clueless Hollywood friends are hypocrites.

God Bless America

Investigation Rocks Middle Village

The Patriots were shocked upon returning from vacation to learn that Councilman Gallagher was under a police investigation regarding accusations of sexual misconduct. However, the Patriots refuse to comment on an ongoing police investigation until the facts are present.

Being true Patriots, we hope that the truth is known and justice prevails.

Furthermore, we admonish anyone or any blog that takes this opportunity to use this unfortunate situation as a means to further malign and destroy an individual’s life. Unfortunately, the damage has already been done.

Let us remember that in the American judicial system, you are innocent until proven guilty.

“Let justice be done, or thy heavens shall fall”






NY Sun Article

Alaska, The Last Frontier and Great Vacation Place

Each year I try to take a vacation that incorporates my passion for the outdoors and the majestic beauty of America. This year I decided to head to the great state of Alaska to fish and enjoy the great outdoors. I was amazed at the beauty and the diverse landscapes that make up the state’s topography. It is one of the few places that you can view snowcapped mountains while walking through plush green pastures. The wildlife is amazing and abundant giving visitors a true sense of rugged exploration.

I enjoyed world class Alaska fishing for salmon, trout, and halibut coupled with the finest lodging on the Kenai River. The fishing action was incredible. I caught so many fish that I lost count. In addition, the people were extremely pleasant and the hospitality was beyond reproach.

The lodge was located in the heart of the beautiful Kenai Peninsula near Soldotna about three hours south of Anchorage. After being exhausted from all that fishing, I enjoyed a wide variety of other activities including glacier tours, kayaking, flightseeing, and horseback riding through the mountains. If you haven’t had a chance to visit Alaska, the Patriots strongly recommend that you consider vacationing in our 49th state.

The Forum Berry West

Looks like Bob Holden and his lap-dog minions have decided to start another propaganda machine. It wouldn’t be so pathetic, however, if it weren’t so transparent. You have Christina Wilkinson and Lorraine Sciulli writing articles, you have Bob Holden being quoted throughout the rag, you have Tony Avella featured on every other page, full page articles on the Midville Dodgers and let’s not forget the gratuitous attack on Councilman Gallagher and Commissioner Benepe.

This propaganda, disguised as a newspaper is just another feeble attempt by Bob to manipulate the truth to assist him in accomplishing his political aspirations. I know the people of Middle Village and Maspeth will once again see through the charade and use the paper to line their litter box or paper train their new puppies that will someday run free in Juniper Park.

Let’s us be mindful of the serious implications when a radical group led by an egomaniac tries to control a legitimate media forum to distort the truth for their own purpose.

Just another balloon...

Don’t Make Us Frown, Open Up The Crown

It is important that the National Park Services re-opens the Statue of Liberty’s crown to show terrorists that we are resilient and will not allow them to adversely change our lives. The statue is a internationally recognized symbol of freedom and America’s willingness to embrace people all over the world. The Patriots say open the crown now and limit the lengthy political debate and rhetoric.

Thankfully, Congressman Anthony Weiner announced that Congressional hearings will be held to discuss the re-opening of Statue of Liberty’s crown. The Congressman has been an outspoken critic of the National Park Services’ reluctance to open the crown to the public. The crown has been closed since 9/11 while Lady Liberty’s base, pedestal, and observation deck were reopened in August 2004. The Statue’s crown is the only site overseen by the National Park Service that has yet to re-open since 9/11. The National Park Service overseas such sites as the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

Please read Congressman Anthony Weiner’s Press Release regarding the Stature Of Liberty.

July 4, 2007


WEINER ANNOUNCES CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS
INTO REOPENING OF STATUE OF LIBERTY

AFTER YEARS OF DELAY, NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE
TO ANSWER WHY AMERICA’S SYMBOL OF FREEDOM REMAINS CLOSED

New York City - Today, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-Queens & Brooklyn), a member of the House of Representatives Energy & Commerce and Judiciary Committees, announced Congressional hearings into the reopening of the Statue of Liberty, which remains the only national park to remain closed since the attacks of 9/11. Rep. Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands announced they will hold hearings this summer to review management of the Statue and the decision to keep Lady Liberty's crown closed.

While Lady Liberty’s base, pedestal, and observation deck were reopened in August 2004, her crown – and the observation deck it houses – remain closed. The Statue’s crown is the only site overseen by the National Park Service that has yet to re-open since 9/11. The National Park Service overseas such sites as the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

The Interior Department’s failure to reopen Lady Liberty has had a profound impact on New York City’s economy. Since her crown was closed to the public, the Statue has seen a 40.8% drop in visitors. This loss of 2.24 million tourists has cost New Yorkers millions in lost economic benefits.

Weiner has been a longtime vocal critic of the Park Service’s failure in “courage and imagination” to reopen the Statue. Last week, Weiner’s legislation which provides the National Parks Service with $1 million in the Interior Appropriations bill for the purpose of reopening the Statue of Liberty unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

In April 2004, Weiner called on the Government Accounting Office (GAO) - the non-partisan, chief investigative arm of Congress - to initiate a federal investigation into the fund raising practices of the Statue of Liberty—Ellis Island Foundation.The Foundation, a non-profit organization, said they were working in partnership with the National Park Service to raise the funds to reopen the Statue. But while the Foundation raised sufficient funds to re-open the statue, Lady Liberty remains closed.

“The National Parks Service has repeatedly ignored the will of Congress to reopen Lady Liberty and send a strong message that America will never yield in the face of terror,” said Rep. Weiner. “These hearings will finally allow us to get answers why the Parks Service is choosing to deny this generation of guests the thrill that many of us first had as children – gazing at the New York landscape through the iconic crown of the Statue of Liberty.”


Courtesy of House.gov

History of the 4th of July...

“Thus may the 4th of July, that glorious and ever memorable day, be celebrated through America, by the sons of freedom, from age to age till time shall be no more. Amen and Amen.”
~Virginia Gazette on July 18th, 1777

Schoolchildren in America learn the basic history of the events surrounding the Fourth of July, but the details of this monumental occasion in American history somehow fall through the cracks.

Although July 4th is celebrated as America’s official split from Britain’s rule and the beginning of the American Revolution, the actual series of events show that the process took far longer than a single day.

Taxation without representation! That was the battle cry of the 13 colonies in America who were forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III with no representation in Parliament. As dissatisfaction grew, British troops were sent in to quell any signs of rebellion, and repeated attempts by the colonists to resolve the crisis without war proved fruitless.

The original resolution was introduced by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia on June 7, 1776, and called for the Continental Congress to declare the United States free from British rule.

On June 11, 1776, the colonies’ Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, formed a committee with the express purpose of drafting a document that would formally sever their ties with Great Britain. The committee included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. The document was crafted by Jefferson, who was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer (nevertheless, a total of 86 changes were made to his draft!) The final version, the document that we know as the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, although the resolution that led to the writing of the Declaration was actually approved two days earlier.

The following day, copies of the Declaration of Independence were distributed and, on July 6, The Pennsylvania Evening Post became the first newspaper to print the extraordinary document.

On July 8, 1776, the first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square to the ringing of bells and band music.
All of this had occurred with some of the delegates to the Congress not even present; New York, for example, did not even vote on the resolution until July 9th. (Did you know that that not a single signature was appended to the Declaration on July 4th. While most of the fifty-six names were in place by early August, one signer, Thomas McKean, did not actually sign the Declaration until 1781.)

One year later, on July 4, 1777, Philadelphia marked Independence Day by adjourning Congress and celebrating with bonfires, bells and fireworks.

The custom eventually spread to other towns both large and small, where the day was marked with processions, oratory, picnics, contests, games, military displays and fireworks. Observations throughout the nation became even more common at the end of the War of 1812 with Great Britain.


On June 24, 1826, Thomas Jefferson sent a letter to Roger C. Weightman, declining an invitation to come to Washington, D.C., to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It was the last letter, Jefferson, who was gravely ill, ever wrote. In it, Jefferson says of the document:

"May it be to the world, what I believe it will be ... the signal of arousing men to burst the chains ... and to assume the blessings and security of self-government. That form, which we have substituted, restores the free right to the unbounded exercise of reason and freedom of opinion. All eyes are opened, or opening, to the rights of man. ... For ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights, and an undiminished devotion to them."

In 1941, Congress declared July 4th a legal Federal holiday. Today, communities across the nation mark this major midsummer holiday with parades, fireworks, picnics and the playing of the "Star Spangled Banner".

Courtesy of Twilight Bridge