Governor Eliot Spitzer’s Inaugural Speech

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WPCNR FOR THE RECORD. New York’s First Gubernatorial Public Inauguration Ceremony. January 1, 2007: Here is the text of Governor Eliot Spitzer’s remarks at his Inaugural Ceremony New Year’s Day.



Eliot Spitzer Being Sworn in as Mrs. Spitzer and their daughters observe the life altering moment. Photos, WPCNR News


Happy New Year and thanks to all of you– intrepid New Yorkers and friends — for joining us on this glorious, gray January day. (More)


 



 


 


I want to thank Governor Pataki for joining in this time-honored tradition as the reigns of state government pass from his careful stewardship. Thank you Governor and Mrs. Pataki for 12 years of service.


 


We are honored by the presence of former Governors Hugh Carey and Mario Cuomo and the great grandson of Governor Al Smith. They represent the august tradition of New York leadership.


 


We are honored by the presence of New York’s esteemed senior Senator Chuck Schumer and Congressman Charles Rangel and the entire Congressional delegation.


 


 



White Plains Representative Nita Lowey greeting colleagues


 


 


And of course, my colleagues in state government. Speaker Shelly Silver and Senator Joe Bruno and the members of their respective chambers.


 


A warm welcome to our great friend the esteemed Judge Kay and all the members of the Court of Appeals. A warm welcome to all those joining me in being sworn in today. Attorney General Andrew Cuomo and my partner, Lieutenant Governor, David Paterson.


 



Lieutenant Governor David Patterson Being Sworn In


 



Attorney General Andrew Cuomo Is Sworn In with his father, former Governor Mario Cuomo, at left, his mother and daughters by his side. Governor Spitzer observes.


 


My deepest thanks are to my Parents; my Wife Silda and our three wonderful daughters without whom I would not be standing here.


 


 


 


Today, we come together to mark a pivotal moment in our state’s history, a day that in the rhythm of democracy marks a transition and a new beginning.


 


It is with profound humility about the task that lies before us and filled with great hope for what I know we will achieve, that I stand before you to announce that Day One of our time for change has arrived.


 


As we step outside on this first January morning of two thousand and seven, the light of a new day shines down on the Empire state once again.


 


The opportunity at the heart of this day is unique to our times, but not new to our history. As the writer Russell Shorto has aptly noted, New York created the prototype for the kind of society that would be duplicated throughout the country and around the globe: Our state was born as an island at the center of the world. What began as a babble of dialects and peoples struggling to find a way to live together, searching for balance between chaos and order, liberty and oppression, became asymphony of democracy.


 


Under the shadow of liberty’s torch, generations of weary travelers have sailed into New York harbor believing that of all the places on Earth, this was the land where people could come and find the chance to make their world anew. That no matter how great the hardship, no matter how daunting the challenge, the promise of our democracy makes it possible to overcome the greatest odds so that we– individually and as a society — may arrive at a greater good. And so it was for those first immigrants who came with little and worked long days to give their children a better life.


 


For the bold governor, Dewitt Clinton, who ignored the warnings of the skeptics and cynics and built an Erie Canal that so many had said was wasteful, impractical, and impossible.


 


For the reformers of Teddy Roosevelt’s day who dared to take on the political machine and inbred corruption in order to give government back to the people.


 


For the suffragists and union members and civil rights heroes who organized and marched on our streets to win their chance at the American dream.


 


For the inventors, artists and entrepreneurs who have turned our state into a beacon of hope, ideas, and opportunity. And so it must be for us. Like all who have come before, we have arrived at this moment on this day because we have demanded a different and more vibrant future for our children.


 


Because we know that New York is the state where the depth of our talent and the breadth of our skills and the reach of our culture have forever changed America and the entire world — and because we know we can do it once more.


 


This election was not about electing one person as governor. Rather it was about what we the people collectively elected for the future of our state.


 


We chose pragmatism and ethics over partisan politics and disfunction, and we demanded an end to gridlock.


 


So I pledge to toil each and every day so as not to disappoint the hard working people of this state who have placed their trust in this future — a future which rekindles hope and restores growth.


 


Today we stand in the midst of a global revolution that has transformed the way we live and the way we work. Creativity and prosperity travel wherever the brightestminds and most innovative economies can be found.


 



Governor and Mrs. Spitzer greeting well-wishers. Governor Pataki is at right, foreground.


 


Over the last decade, we have seen what can happen when our government stands still in the face of great challenge and inevitable change.


 


We’ve seen it in the burdensome property taxes and the health care we can’t afford; in the jobs that have disappeared from our upstate cities and the schools that keep failing our children; in a government that works for those who hold office — not those who put them there.


 


Like Rip Van Winkle, the legendary character created by the New York author Washington Irving, New York has slept through much of the past decade while the rest of the world has passed us by.


 


Today is the day when all of that changes—when we stop standing still and start moving forward once more.


 


And while I wish I could tell you that either a single election or a different party or even a new governor alone is enough to do this — I cannot. While I wish I could tell you that change will be easy — I don’t believe that you elected me to do what’s easy.


 


Easy is spending your tax dollars without consequence or sacrifice. Easy is saying yes to supporters and no to opponents. Easy is looking the other way while costs rise, debts mount and families lose ground. Easy is what we’ve had, but easy is not where we need to go.


 


Let us remember the lessons of two great governors, Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. Teddy Roosevelt instructed, “It is only through labor and painful effort, by grim energy and resolute courage that we move on to better things.”


 


And Franklin Roosevelt advised us to be, “bold,” and to recognize that people demand “action, and action now.”


 


I have no doubt that we can move on to better things in this state — that we will find ourselves on the winning side of history once more.


 


But to be number one again, we must be one New York again.


 


And so in order to return to policies of opportunity and prosperity, we must change the ethics of Albany and end the politics of cynicism and division in our state.



If ever there was a time that called out for introspection by those in government, it is now. Lincoln spoke of listening to “the better angels of our nature.” Indeed, those of us who work in the great building behind me must hear and heed the serious responsibility that public service demands and rise to this moment and show the public in words and in deeds that we understand that our responsibility is to the people of New York. The reform we seek is substantial in size and historic in scope.


 


It will require a new brand of politics — a break from the days when progress was measured by the partisan points scored or the opponents defeated. No longer can we afford merely to tinker at the margins of the status quo or play the politics of pitting one group against another. We must replace delay and diversion with energy and purpose in the halls of our capital.


 


 


 



 


What we needed now more than ever is a politics that binds us together, a politics that looks to the future, a politics that asks not what is in it for me, but always what is in it for us.


 


We must embrace a progressive vision of govemment once more — a vision that upholds the values of individuality and community; of entrepreneurship and opportunity; of responsibility and fairness. No one any longer believes in government as a heavy hand that can cure all our ills, but rather we see it as a lean and responsive force that can make possible the pursuit of prosperity and opportunity for all — by soflening life’s blows, leveling its playing field and making possible the pursuit of happiness that is our god given right.


 


It is both tempting and understandable for each of us to focus on the problems and concems within our own neighborhoods, our own cities, our own regions, and our own businesses. But for any one of us to succeed, we must succeed as One New York.


 


A state that is not urban or rural, upstate or downstate, Republican or Democratic, but first and foremost New Yorkers — striving together, reaching together, working together towards our common dream.


 


And so, together, we must strive to build One New York through a politics that operates on the principle that we rise or fall as one people and one state.


 


We will succeed not because we point fingers or refuse to budge, but because we compromise enough to find principled consensus, and because we listen enough to find wise solutions.


 


Not everyone will agree with this vision and some will not support these solutions. Indeed we will make mistakes. But progress we will have — measured by our core values.


 


Our purpose is not reform merely for the sake of reform, but to restore fairness and create opportunity and redefine the very fabric of our community.


 


Some may feel anxiety over changes that seek to make businesses more competitive, but all will benefit from an Innovation Economy that attracts young people and new businesses in every part of New York. Some may express skepticism over a school system that demands more accountability from students, teachers and parents, but all will benefit from an education that rewards excellence and gives every child the best possible chance in life.


 


Some may feel threatened by health care reforms, but all will benefit from a system that finally puts patients first at a cost that all families can afford.


 


Some public officials may not want to face stricter ethics rules and more competitive elections, but all citizens will win when we finally get a government that puts the people’s interests, openness and integrity first.


 


With almost all of these reforms, there will be those who say we can’t, we shouldn’t, and we won’t.


 


They will peddle the politics of cynicism that we must now make the politics of yesterday. Because if we band together and succeed in our efforts, our future will mean a New York that values the dignity of each person– and once more offers opportunity for all.


 


Every policy, every action every decision we make in this administration will further two overarching objectives: we must transform our government so that it is as ethical and wise as all of New York, and we must rebuild our economy so that it is ready to compete on the global stage in the next century. The simplicity of articulating these principles belies the complexity of the task. But victory will be ours, as it must be.


 


And so on this day of unbridled hope and possibility, I ask you to think not only of the challenges and aspirations that you hold in your own hearts, but of those that are held in the collective heart of New York.


 


This One New York includes Chris Kelder and his family, who have farmed their land in Ulster County for more than two centuries, passing their dreams on to each succesive generation.


 


It includes today’s immigrants whose lips speak the languages of Spanish, Chinese, Korean, French and an infinite array of dialects from all over the world.


 


Today’s immigrants enrich our state with their vitality and their vision, in the same way as the immigrants of the last century. All these different tongues translate into the incomparable work ethic of New York.


 


And it includes the brave immigrants who came through Ellis Island over the last century in search of a better life, one of whose grandsons stands here in front of you today the embodiment of their dreams.


 


Each of us comes from a different place and from a different background. Each has faced their own tests and trials along life’s journey.


 


But throughout the history of New York, what has always united us as a people is the recognition that we are all on this journey together, and if we’re willing to catch each other during our stumbles and look out for one another during the tough times, we have it in our power to remove any obstacles in our path and walk toward that brighter day.


 


No matter how great the challenge — no matter how impossible the odds — our destiny will never be a path to follow, but always a trail to blaze.


 


And so on this new day of a new year, I ask not just for your support, but also for your cooperation, your patience, and your participation in making our dream real once again.


 


As New York’s former Governor Theodore Roosevelt once remarked, there can be no great progress without first entering the arena.


 


My fellow New Yorkers: join me in that arena.


 


Lend your sweat, your toil and your passion to the effort of building One New


York of which we can all be proud.


 


My fellow New Yorkers. Our moment is here.


 


Day One is now.


 


Together, let’s build that One New York. Let’s walk toward that better day.


 


 


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Spitzer’s One New York- Ethical Government, Rebuild NY Economy

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WPCNR AT WEST CAPITOL PARK At The State Capitol. By John F. Bailey. January 1, 2007:  Governor Eliot Spitzer, addressing thousands filling the West Capitol Park at the first ever public inaugural in New York State, said his two “overarching objectives” would be “transforming government so that it is ethical and wise as all of New York,” and to rebuild the state economy “so it is ready to compete on the global stage in the next century.”


 


 



Governor Eliot Spitzer Delivering his Inaugural Address on the steps of the State Capitol New Year’s Day.  Andrew Cuomo, Attorney General is fourth from the left. Mrs. Spitzer and the Governor’s three daughters are at the right. Photos, WCPNR News


 


The Governor set priorities in opportunity, education, and health care reform with a hint at property tax reform with no specifics. He said “our purpose is not merely reform merely for the sake of reform, but to restore fairness and create opportunity and redefine the very fabric of our community.” He gave notice to politicians sitting before him that their partisan politics of the past will not do.


 



 


Governor Eliot Spitzer assumed command of New York State from Governor George Pataki. Thousands fanned out across West Capitol Park in front of New York’s Capitol Monday, despite heavy rains in morning and threatening raw skies. They saw a ceremony worthy of the Kings of England.





The extravaganza included fanfares, musical codas and dramatic transitions  at the introduction of Governor Spitzer and his family;  prior to his taking the oath of office and after his oath of office, with rounds of artillery and rifle fire rumbling in the distance, evoking  the feel of the 1812 Overture as the orchestra played majestic theme.


 



 


Mr. Spitzer (seen on one of two giant videoscreens) set Opportunity, Education, Health Care Priorities and challenged politics of past.


 


“Some may feel anxiety over changes that seek to make businesses more competitive, but all will benefit from an Innovation Economy that attracts young people and new businesses in every part of New York,” he said.


 


“Some may express skepticism over a school system that demands more accountability from students, teachers and parents, but all will benefit from an education that rewards excellence and gives every child the best possible chance in life.


 


“Some may feel threatened by health care reforms, but all will benefit from a system that finally puts patients first at a cost that all families can afford.”


 


“Some public officials may not want to face stricter ethics rules and more competitive elections, but all citizens will win when we finally get a government that puts the people’s interests, openness and integrity first.”


 


The Governor, speaking coatless in 48 degree raw, damp conditions, delivered a  20-minute address promising to “change the ethics of Albany and end the politics of cynicism and division in our state…”. He said, “What we now need more than ever is a politics that binds us together, a politics that looks to the future, a politics that asks not what is in it for me, but always what is in it for us (the people).”


 


Pataki Years The Rip Van Winkle Years


 


With former Governor George Pataki sitting 20 feet away Governor Spitzer likened the state of the last ten years to Rip Van Winkle,  having “slept through much of the last decade while the rest of the world passed us by,” Spitizer said.


 


The Governor pointed out this “standing still” was evident in the “burdensome property taxes, health care we can’t afford; in the jobs that have disappeared (from upstate cities), and schools that keep failing our children; in a government that works for those who hold office – not those who put them there… Today is the day when all of that changes – when we stop standing still and start moving forward. ”


 


Exhorts politicians to work as  One New York


 


The Governor called for “One New York…through a politics that operates on the principle that we rise or fall as one people and one state. We will succeed not because we point fingers or refuse to budge, but because we compromise enough to find principled consensus, and because we listen enough to find wise solutions.”


 



 


A Commentary on Politics As We Knew Them: The Governor  was hard on officeholders’ previous efforts, speaking to the citizens of New York directly about the performance of the New York legislature seated before him: “While I wish I could tell you that change will be easy – I don’t believe you elected me to do what’s easy.”


 


“Easy is spending your tax dollars without consequence or sacrifice. Easy is saying yes to supporters and no to opponents. Easy is looking the other way while costs rise, debts mount and families lose ground. Easy is what we’ve had, but easy is not where we need to go.”


 


He quoted Teddy Roosevelt: “It is only through labor and painful effort, by grim energy and resolute courage that we can move to better things.”


 


He evoked the memory of DeWitt Clinton (for his building the Erie Canal) as an example of New York State enterprise of the past. He bade the state look back to the reformers of Theodore Roosevelt’s term as governor and their zeal for reform and follow Franklin Roosevelt’s call to be “bold, and to recognize that people demand action now.”


 


Lawmakers Must Take A New Responsibility.


 


Spitzer said legislators “who work in the great building behind me must hear and heed the serious responsibility that public service demands and rise to this moment and show the public in words and in deeds that we understand that our responsibility that public service demands and rise to this moment and show the public in words and deeds that we understand that our responsibility is to the people of New York.”


 



Crowd fills the West Capitol Park. Alfred E. Smith Building is to the left.


 


He challenged the lawmakers to change their ways: “The reform we seek is substantial in size and historic in scope (no specifics mentioned). It will require a new brand of politics – a break from the days when progress was measured by partisan points scored or the opponents defeated. No longer can we afford merely to tinker at the margins of the status quo or play the politics of pitting one group against another. We must replace delay and diversion with energy and purpose in the halls of the capital.”


 


Spitzer closed with warm thoughts about New York diversity, observing he is the grandson of  an immigrant. “Today’s immigrants enrich our state with their vitality and vision, in the same way as the immigrants of the last century.”


 


Spitzer finished strong with a little Churchill, a little Kennedy, and a reference to another Governor of New York who became President – “No matter how great the challenge – no matter how impossible the odds – our destiny will never be a path to follow, but always a trail to blaze.”


 


He gave the citizens and the legislators before him a mission:


 


“As New York’s former Governor Theodore Roosevelt once remarked, there can be no progress without first entering the arena. My fellow New Yorkers: join me in that arena…Lend your sweat, your toil and your passion to the effort of building One New York of which we can all be proud. My fellow New Yorkers. Our moment is here.”


 


“Day One is Now.”


 


“Together Let’s build that One New York. Let’s walk toward that better day.”


 


The citizens and dignitaries rose applauding in hope.



 


 



 


The legend Judy Collins was introduced to close the proceedings with This Little Bright Light .Her voice of hope embraced the thousands, enhanced by echoes off the pillars of the Capitol, the columns of the Education Department, and the art deco facade of the Alfred E. Smith Building, you could almost believe him.


 


 


 



 


 


After the ceremony, Celebrate New York, a series of events to entertain the public, and to celebrate the arts of the state took place at The Egg Theatre, and throughout the Concourse beneath the Executive Plaza.  The multitudes enjoyed the wares of fabulous New York State food creators. This reporter dined on the famous biker-created “Dinosaur Bar-B-Q” (based in Syracuse) and enjoyed Saranac Root Beer.


 


**********************


 



Citizens of New York  were welcomed into the 1867 State House, the magnificent edifice housing the State Assembly and Senate, and were given tours of the chambers.Citizens are seen entering the Assembly Chambers on tour Monday after the Inauguration.


 



Citizens toured the Senate Chamber (seen from the spectator balcony).


 


 


 



 


 


 


 Andrew Cuomo, sworn in as Attorney General lingered for forty-five minutes with citizens in the state house lobby outside the Attorney General Office. Mr. Spitzer did not meet with the press after the Inauguration Ceremonies. After Attorney General Cuomo departed the lobby of the Capitol, New Yorkers amused themselves by having their pictures taken behind the Attorney General News Conference podium shown above.


 


 



Citizens were awed by the sepulchre-like beauty of the magnificent central stone staircases in the State Capitol.


 


 


***********


 


Mr. Cuomo’s father, Mario Cuomo, former New York Governor was seated with the rest of the new Attorney General’s family in the front row on the Inauguration Dais. Andrew Cuomo received the oath of office from Chief Justice Judith Kaye of the New York State Court of Appeals, and he waved to the crowd enthusiastically as their cheers washed over him.


 


Ms. Kaye administered the oath of office to Lieutenant Governor David Patterson, and finally the stage was set for Mr. Spitizer’s historic moment.


 


 


The affair began with a procession of dignitaries emerging from the State Capitol announced by Alfred E. Smith the IV.


 


 


Mr. Smith called the Inauguration to order and introduced a procession of dignitaries who emerged from the steps of the Capitol: The Native Tribes of New York State, The Board of Regents, the members of the New York State Assembly and Senate,  representatives of the Mayors of New York State, the New York State Congressional Delegation, Senator Charles Schumer (Senator Hillary Clinton did not attend the Inauguration), and  former Governor George Pataki and First Lady Libby Pataki, Lieutenant Governor David Patterson and his wife, Andrew Cuomo and his three children and his father, former Governor Mario Cuomo and his wife, Matilda Cuomo, followed by a three minute pause before Governor Spitzer was introduced with his wife Silda Wall Spitzer and their three daughters.


 


Mr. Smith, the great grandson of New York Governor Alfred E. Smith, remembered that Alfred E. Smith was described as using his voice as a trumpet that he would use in defense of the less fortunate, saying “Today we’ll hear that trumpet again.”


 


They did.


 

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Auld Lang Syne: Where Does That Ditty Come From?

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WPCNR DAYS GONE BY. From the WPNCR Editorial Advisory Board. January 1, 2007: While the WPCNR Editorial Advisory Board was revelling in the New Year Sunday evening indulging in the decadent New Year’s Eve Trifle below, the question came up where does Auld Lang Syne  — the Guy Lombardo “standard” with a melancholy and wistfulness that no other song has to evoke sadness and pleasure simultaneously —  come from?



The White Plains Ball Drops and White Plains Bursts into Auld Lang Syne while the Decadent New Year’s Eve Trifle is served.



The Decadent Trifle Was Still Making the rounds of Homes in White Plains on New Year’s Day after The Editorial Board’s Revelries. Photos, WPCNR PhotoRazzi


After recovering from the Decadent New Year’s Eve Trifle, one of the Editorial Board’s diligent and thorough researchers tells the story behind auld lang syne:


Number one it is not German as I had originally thought, but Scottish, coming from the pen of the Scottish poet, Robert Burns in the late 18th century. It has been sung in English-speaking countries for over 200 years. Usually accompanied by a traditional dance, the song’s name, Auld Lang Syne, translates in Scots as “old long since” or “long ago” or “days gone by.” “Syne” is pronounced like the English word “sign.”


 


The melody – not from Guy Lombardo – is according to Wikipedia a pentatonic Scots  folk melody, described as a dance in quicker tempo than today’s stately melancholy. The English composer William Shield uses the Auld Lang Syne melody at the end of the overature to his opera Rosina. Wikipedia suggests that  Shield and Burns took their melody from Scottish folksongs The Miller’s Wedding or The Miller’s Daughter, while Burns biography claims he based it on Can Ye Labour Yea.


 


Anyway it has worked its way around the world, sung in Denmark in 1927. It is also the tune to the alma meter of the University of Virginia. In Japan, it is the Japanese students’ song. It is the tune to the South Korean National Anthem.


 


Here are Robert Burns original lyrics for Auld Lang Syne:


 


Should auld acquaintance be forget,


And never brought to mind?


Should auld acquaintance be forgot,


And auld lang syne?


 


CHORUS


 


For auld lang syne, my dear,


For auld lang syne,


We’ll tak a cup o’ kindness


Yet,


For auld lang syne.


 


And surely ye’ll be your pint-stowp!


And surely I’ll be mine!


And we’ll tak a coup o’ kindness yet,


For auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS


 


We twa hae run about the braes,


And pou’d the gowans fine;


But we’ve wander’d mony a weary


Fit,


Sin’auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS


 


We twa hae paidl’d in the burn,


Frae morning sun till dine;


But seas between us braid hae roar’d


Sin’ auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS


 


And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere !


And gies a hand o’ thine !


And we’ll tak a right gude-willie-


Waught


For auld lang syne


 


CHORUS


 


 


 


The English Translation:


 


Should old acquaintance be forgot,


And never brought to mind?


Should old acquaintance be forgot,


And auld lang syne?


 


CHORUS


 


For auld lang syne, my dear,


For auld lang syne,


We’ll take a cup o’ kindness


Yet,


For auld lang syne.


 


And surely you’ll buy your pint


Cup!


And surely I’ll buy mine!


And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,


For auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS


 


We two have run about the hills,


And pulled the daisies fine;


But we’ve wandered many a weary


Foot,


Since auld lang syne


 


CHORUS


 


We two have paddled in the stream,


From morning sun till dine (dinner time)


But seas between us broad have


Roared


Since auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS


 


And there’s a hand my trusty


Friend


And give us a hand o’ thine!


And we’ll take a right good-will


Draught,


For auld lang syne.


 


CHORUS

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White Plains Rings In 2007 With Festive Block Party & Ball Drop

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WPCNR MAIN & MAMARONECK. January 1, 2007: White Plains attracted a happy crowd of all ages and diversity New Year’s eve to a raucous street-animatingNew Year’s Eve celebration crowned by a rouser of a fireworks display at midnight as the White Plains Ball descended into Renaissance Square. The 40 degree evening attracted large lines at local bars and restaurants and citizens young and old dancing to music in the streets, and was still partying strong at 1 AM, according to witnesses when Times Square in Manhattan was left with nothing but litter.



Renaissance Square in White Plains 12:10 A.M., January 1, 2007! Happy New Year! News 12Video Capture by WPCNR News


 

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Mr. and Mrs. White Plains: Tell the Mayor What Policy Priorties Should Be in 07

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WPCNR NEW YEAR POLL. December 31, 2006: There are a lot of issues facing the City of White Plains in 2007. WPCNR has identified 12 such issues.  WPCNR provides the news aficionados of this site with the opportunity to tell Mayor Joseph Delfino what they would do if they were Mayor. Rank your top priorities in the poll at the right on these crucial issues:



 



  1. REMOVE TCEs from City Dump and Build Fields There:  Insider sources say the city is definitely going to have to clean up the TCE contamination on the dump, how is the question now being debated. However, should DEC give the city a pass on the smelly chemical disgrace at the dump that has existed for 25 years, should the city clean it up anyway and perhaps reclaim the dump for athletic fields the Mayor claims the city needs so badly? It’s your city. What would Mr. and Mrs. And Ms. White Plains do?

 



  1. Develop Police Emergency Notification System: The White Plains Department of Public Safety agrees with the CitizeNetReporter that the Department needs a means of communicating with citizens during a citywide or even a minor city emergency. Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety Dr. Charles Jennings proposed such a system to be developed 2009-2009. Such a system might constitute any number of procedures: a tape loop system updated that citizens could call for information; an AM radio system such as the Air Traffic Information System used at all airports, it has not been decided? Do White Plains Citizens want such a system? Tell the Mayor what you want.

 



  1. Develop Lexington Avenue Corridor: The highly touted next piece of the City Renaissance – cleaning up the Lexington Avenue look adjacent the Winbrook projects. No meetings have been held on this among property owners since last spring to this reporter’s knowledge. Do the citizens want this next piece of the White Plains Renaissance to begin? Give the Mayor your endorsement.

 



  1. Develop Bank Street Commuter Parking Lot. In an effort to obtain an influx of cash, the city has quietly worked out a deal with LCOR to build clones of the Bank Street Commons project with some retail and mixed use. This project was leaked to the Journal News two weeks ago and the zoning of the Bank Street commuter lot facilitating this change is on the agenda Tuesday evening. Is Mr. and Mrs. White Plains behind this project? The land is not being put out for private bid – even though other developers are interested in the property. Tell the Mayor how this ranks in your system of priorities.

 



  1. Develop Hamilton Avenue Gateway II Lot: The big lot across from the White Plains TransCenter. This is the last remaining parcel where buildings of 40 stories could be built. Should the Mayor proceed with getting this link in the new downtown developed?

 



  1. Should North Street Community Senior Condo/Assisted Living Project be approved as scaled back? North Street Community the glamour project that Alfred Caiola and friends have been excruciatingly working through the objections of the Wyndom Close association the last two years has cut back their project somewhat. Should the Council and Mayor green light this project? Is it a priority with you, Mr. and Mrs. and Ms. White Plains?

 



  1. Bring Budget in Line with City Revenues? Instead of budget cutting, city hall has pursued spending policies in recent years that have required, and continue to require revenue generating by selling city land, while funding affordable housing projects with city assets. The city now faces renegotiating union contracts which they will settle at a minimum of 4% because they gave that in the last contracts when it was not necessary and virtually double the inflation rate. Should the city look at their spending policies – task force the budget – instead of lurching forward with what appears to be a lack of planning?

 



  1. Televise Work Sessions, Planning Board, Zoning Board Meetings. Major policy decisions are made at these meetings, and, in the case of the Common Council Work Sessions, important city issues are decided on in a small packed conference room with limited audience. Should the city televise these sessions and Planning and Zoning Board meetings to better inform the public and avoid the element of surprise, shock and awe when citizens find out what the city is doing?

 



  1. Hire Budget Director as Check on Finance Department. City Hall has gone on record as saying the Budget Department is not needed, claiming it duplicates what the Commissioner of Finance does. Do Mr. and Mrs. and Ms. White Plains agree?

 



  1. Enact Surcharge to Arrest Assessment Decline. It is no secret that declining commercial assessments are killing Mr. and Mrs. and Ms. White Plains. This year the owner of a $700,000 house in White Plains will pay over $10,000 a year in school, city and county taxes with no end in site. A Tennessee County has moved to enact surcharges on increased value of commercial and residential properties  to reflect the actual resale value of  the properties. Should the city explore a surcharge for services, an air rights tax, or similar mechanism to relieve the White Plains residential property owner? Tell the Mayor.

 



  1. Limit Executive Sessions to Litigation Matters Only. The excessive use of Executive Sessions to discuss land sales and policies of a sensitive nature has come under fire. The Common Council is allowed by charter to discuss legal matters, matters of the sale of land and personnel  in executive session. However, policy is also created by these sessions. The city never reveals the specific details of what entities are involved in an Executive Session, perpetuating a cloak of secrecy. Should the Mayor be told to give more detail on what’s involved in Executive Sessions on legal issues  and discuss land policy – without detailing price considerations? Perhaps limit Executive Sessions to litigation matters only where legal opinions are given – while revealing plaintiff and nature of the complaints? Tell the Mayor you are sick of the secrecy.

 



  1. Expand the BID to West Post Road, down to Bloomindale Road and down Mamaroneck Avenue to the Bloomingdale Road fork.  The Bid would gain a million dollars in new assessments from businesses on Maple, West Post Road and Old Bloomingdale Road, and the posh malls of the city: The Westchester and The Westchester Pavillion would be included. Is this something the city should pursue? Do Mr. and Mrs. and Ms. White Plains endorse this move?

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Stellaris, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield Settle Contract. Health Care as Usual.

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WPCNR PULSE. From White Plains Hospital Center. December 30, 2006 UPDATED 8:30 PM EST: Citizens holding Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield health care coverage will be accepted  at White Plains Hospital Center, Lawrence Hospital (Bronxville), Northern Westchester Hospital (Mount Kisco) and Phelps Memorial Hospital (Sleepy Hollow) Monday, ending their fears their Empire health coverage may not be accepted due to contract expiration.  Stellaris Hospital Network announced early Saturday afternoon they have reached agreement with Empire effective January 1.


In a statement, the Stellaris Network said, “We are pleased that the successful outcome (of Empire negotiations) is one which is in the best interest of all concerned. We thank you for your continued support and recognition of the value of Stellaris Hospitals to the citizens of Westchester that we take pride in serving.”


In a news release this evening, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield stated:


 


“We are pleased to have reached this agreement and we will continue to work closely with SHN to support their ongoing mission to provide important services to our members and to the Westchester community,” said Mark Wagar, President, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield.


 


“This agreement will provide Empire’s members with continued access to Westchester’s preeminent network of community hospitals. We look forward to our ongoing relationship with Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield,” said Arthur A. Nizza, President and CEO of Stellaris. 


 


No action is required by Empire members to continue services at any Stellaris Hospital Network hospital facility. Empire members who have additional questions should contact their member service representative at the number on their ID card.


 

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Fort Hill Players Presents 4th Annual FROM THE WINGS Showcase

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WPCNR STAGE DOOR. From Fort Hill Players. December 30, 2006:  What exactly is “From the Wings?” Is it a play?  A musical?  A behind the scenes look at Fort Hill?  The answer is YES! – “From the Wings” is all of this and more. FTW is an electic collection of one act plays, scenes, and musical numbers performed by individual members of Fort Hill to showcase their hidden talents.

See the talent from behind the scenes, along with some familiar faces from in front of the curtain, strut their stuff

 

General admission: $10; FHP members & Subscribers: free.

Rochambeau School, 228 Fisher Avenue, White Plains

January 26 & 27, 8 pm

Information / directions: www.forthillplayers.com or (914) 309-7278

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Tiger Zone X’s Out Xaverian, 61-55 for Slam Dunk Title with Team Dee, Team Play.

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WPCNR COURTSIDE By “Hardwood Bailey” December 29, 2006 UPDATED 10:37 AM December 30, 2006: The White Plains Tigers took over the offensive boards in the third quarter, and Jamell Cromartie and Spencer Smith operated the thing of beauty that is the White Plains 2-3 zone defense, creating 5 key Xaverian turnovers to pace the Tigers to a 10-point lead after three quarters. The Tigers drained clock and never let the Clippers get close in the final 8 minutes, to nail the County Center Slam Dunk Championship, 61-55 over Xaverian High from Brooklyn tonight.  The Tigers strung together the eighth win without a loss against Xaverian, their toughest opponent to date.



THE TIGER “MO” ZONE–CAN’T GET INSIDE IT CAN’T GET OVER IT: Xaverian (DOWN BY 9!)has run down 21 seconds trying to penetrate the Tiger zone, with 2:23 to go in the third quarter. They passed it, threw it around and when Clipper guards tried to drive, Jamell Cromartie(top of key) and Spencer Smith top right of key) picked their pockets  for four easy baskets. The Tigers on the rear guard left to right are Rashad James, Jordan Griffith and Sean Kilpatrick who sealed off the paint. Photos, WPCNR Sports 



All Tournament Team: (L to R) Xaverian’s Brandon Romain and Reggie Davis, and White Plains Tigers, Jamell Cromartie and Rishawn Johnson (who took the boards back from Xaverian in the second and third quarters), and the Tournament Most Valuable Player, Sean Kilpatrick, who scored 27 Thursday evening and 20 tonight, keeping the Tigers in it to win it. 



Tiger Co-Captains, L to R, Jamell Cromartie (12 points, 3 steals, BIG BIG HOOPS), Rishawn “Roadblock” Johnson (13 Bounds, 8 Points, Caretaker of the Glass) and Spencer Smith whose steals highlighted the 15-4 third quarter Tiger TakeOver.  The “Stars of the Game” hold the Slam-Dunk Championship Trophy.


Sean Kilpatrick paced the Tigers with 16 points in the first half, then leant athleticism and muscle to help Rishawn Johnson, Smith and Griffith dominate the offensive boards in the 3rd quarter to stretch a 2-point lead at the half to 10.  Spencer Smith created two key steals in the third quarter, scored 15 overall, and scored the last 6 Tiger points.  Cromartie chipped in with 3 steals in the 3rd quarter and12 points — contributing his usual heartbreaker 2s.


 


Xaverian delivered a wakeup call to the Tigers the first fifteen minutes of the game. The rangy and speedy boys from Brooklyn penetrated and rebounded intensely, getting off strong.


 


Xaverian’s Reggie Smith, Jim Padgett and Brandon Romain dominated the offensive boards in the first quarter getting off to a 9-4 lead in the first 2 minutes of the game. The Tigers picked up 7 fouls in the first five minutes, until Rishawn Johnson rumbled down the lane was fouled and sank two foul shots to cut the deficit to 11-7. Padgett, dominating inside underneath scored five points to give the Clippers an 14-7 lead. Xaverian spread the floor and confused the Tigers with their long passes, but that did not last.


 


Sean Kilpatrick lead the Tigers back with an underhand baseline bucket to make it 14-9 and a backdoor layup to bring the score to 16-11 after one quarter.


 


Three Quarter Court Pressure Confuses.


 


The Tigers warmup jerseys have the word “DEFENSE” emblazoned on the backs. Defense at an other world intensity, brought the Tigers back in the second quarter.


 


Padgett, continuing to dominate underneath got the X-men an 18-11 lead in the first minute of Quarter 2. Tiger Coach Spencer Mayfield, pacing the sideline and exhorting his boys changed up to ¾ court pressure that Xaverian did not handle, while Rishawn, Kilpatrick and Cromartie pestered with finesse the Xaverian ball-handlers who did not handle it well. Kilpatrick penetrated for an 18-13 lead. Jamell Cromartie, unconfronted put up a bullseye 3-pointer from 20 feet with 5:42 to go in the half for a 18-16 deficit and the Tigers were in the X-men’s faces.


 


Rashad James disrupted a dribble by X guard got it to Kilpatrick who tied the score on a layup, 18-18. Xaverian went ahead on Romain’s  one-hander, 20-18 with 4:28 to go. The Tigers tied, a free throw gave Xaverian its last lead 21-20. Rishawn Johnson, the “Roadblock” tied the score on a free throw and at 2:11, Kilpatrick in an acrobatic, dipsey-doodle windmill-and-up layup across the base of the key gave the Tigers the lead 23-21. They were never headed again.


 


Rishawn Johnson, Kilpatrick and Jordan Griffith (The Sixth man) and Rashad James fearlessly and deftly took back the defensive boards and the Tigers took over control of the game going to the break. Rishawn Johnson’s free throw stretched the lead to 24-21.


 


The Killer Shot Specialist, Jamell Cromartie with three X-Men on top of him eclipsing his black uniform, in the paint somehow got up a shot that fell to make the score 26-23 Tigers with 1:35 to go. A long pass from Romain to Padgett cut the lead to 27-25 at the half, White Plains. But this was the last damage Padgett, the big 6-7 Clipper would do. Sean Kilpatrick, on fire, scored 16 in the first half  for White Plains while “The Crow,” Cromartie scored 7.


 


The Tiger Phalanx


 


In a highly entertaining first half where the Clippers were clearly bothered by the cat-like quickness of the Tiger defenders, and lost their poise in pressure, the question was could the Clippers penetrate as they had the first quarter. They could not.


 


Off the inbounds, Jamell Cromartie shot a terrific feed to Johnson to make it 29-25 within the first minute of the second half. The Clippers’ Reggie Davis short one-handed to make it 29-27 and Vince Council weaved his way coast-to-coast down court to tie the score on a layup at 29.


 


Momentum Stopper.


 


On the following sequence  Jamie Blanchard tangled his legs up with “The Roadblock,”  Rishawn Johnson, tripping him and was called for a Technical Foul. This clearly unhinged Xaverian mentally.  Jamell Cromartie made one of the two technicals and White Plains lead 30-29 for good.


 


The technical foul allowed the Tigers to retain possession and The Crow again applied his knack for the Kill Shot, putting in a one-hander from the foul line for a 32-29 lead.


 


X-Men enter The MO-ZONE.


 


The Tigers then set up their 2-3 zone defense and the X-Men could not handle it.  With guards Cromartie and Spencer blocking the passing lanes and the backline of James, Griffith and Kilpatrick guarding the bucket like Patrick Roy’s without pads, the Clipper Guards were intimidated, reluctant to throw passes to cutting big men Padgett and Davis.


 


Cromartie and Spencer Steal the Game.


 


 


A steal lead to an contested layup by Kilpatrick to make it 34-29 with 5 minutes to go in the third quarter.


 


A one-hander by Romain kept pace, but Cromartie pawed away a Clipper dribble and took it to the hoop for a 36-31 lead with 4:20 left in the third.


 


Cromartie again swatted away a tentative dribble to Spencer Smith who took it in for another uncontested layup and it was 38-31 with 3:12 to go.


 


The Clippers trailing now bigtime refused to put up threes or shoot from deep because of Cromartie, Spencer and Rashad James ability to come out and front them in an instant. The Clippers played catch at the perimeter of the zone to the frustration of their coach. A timeout did not improve matters.


 



Scrum: Tigers Dominated Boards in Second Half, getting position, easy layups off steals set up by Cromartie, Smith, Griffith and James.


 


 


Precious seconds ticked away as Xaverian played catch as the Tigers swung left, swung right and adjusted their zone and for some reason Xaverian guards did not attempt penetration.


 


Spencer Smith poked away the ball again to Jamell Cromartie who converted uncontested to extend the Tiger lead to 40-31 with 2:43 left.


 


Finally Padgett penetrated the lane putting up a flying one-hander to bring The X’s to 40-33 at the 2 minute mark. Sean Kilpatrick took another steal from Jordan Griffith and went in all alone for a 42-33 lead at 1:38.


 



Rishawn Johnson, and Rashad James congratulate Spencer Smith on the line, whose defensive intensity, ball-hawking and hustle keyed the big run.


 


Spencer Smith applied the killer steal slapping the ball loose again from a Clipper guard and taking it all the way to hoopsville for a 44-33 advantage White Plains with 1:24 to go. It was an amazing display of a zone that is alive and dangerous – a zone that thanks to the conditioning and superb reflexes of the Tiger guards – actually played like a man-to-man – without risking the foul pressure. At least it did tonight.


 


White Plains outscored Xaverian 17-9 in the third quarter to lead 44-34.


 


4th Quarter Holds.


 


Rishawn Johnson scored with the first 30 seconds on a stunning move underneath for a 46-34 lead and Spencer Smith picked up another steal to extend the advantage to 48-34.  Joe Ecock canned a three, but Xaverian had no real outside shooting threats to take back the deficit fast. With six minutes to go, White Plains held a 48-39 lead. Rashadd James popped in a one-hander to extend to 50-39 with 5:50 to go. And still the Xaverians did not foul.  Xaverian hung around within 10 points until under the two minute mark. Spencer Smith’s two free throws stretched the lead to 55-45 with a minute to go, while the Tigers whittle down clock.


 


The Tigers (8-0)  play Scarsdale in their next game.


 



Jamie Blanchard  and Chris Doyle Accept Second Place Trophy for Xaverian — “Woithy Advasawies” from Brooklyn


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

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Tigers 28-point 4th Cages Falcons 72-46. Kilpatrick’s 27 commands Game

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WPCNR PRESS BOX. By “Hardwood” Bailey. December 28, 2006: Sean Kilpatrick pumped in 19 points in the first half on layups, one-handers, leading White Plains to a 33-23 halftime lead in the semi-final of the Slam Dunk Tournament at the County Center this afternoon. Woodlands had three chances to cut into that lead, late in the third quarter trailing 44-35 with 2:23 to go. They were  stopped three times by bumping and massaging Tigers in the paint.  The looming arms, widebodies of Rishawn Johnson, athleticism of Sean Kilpatrick, and catlike hands of Rashad James batted back heave after frustrated Falcon heave and hard bodies punished every penetration. Spencer Smith and Jamell Cromartie then combined to start a 13-2 run to take over the game.


 



Run-Starter — Jamell Cromartie (3) Watches his pullup one hander go through the nets to give WP a 13-point lead at the start of the 4th quarter. Jamell’s bucket followed up Spencer Smith’s opening drive to break open the game. Photos, WPCNR Sports.






The Tiger defensive statement triggered a Woodlands defensive collapse to start the 4th period. From the Tiger opening possession, White Plains ripped off a 13-2 run. Spencer Smith took the ball in bounds and went coast-to-cast down the lane while Falcons watched, 46-35. Jamell Cromartie went hip to hip  right around a defender for an uncontester, 48-35. Rashad James unboxed out, tapped in a rebound to make it 50-35 with 6:20 to go. Spencer Smith sunk a pair of free throws, 52-35. Jordan Griffith chucked in a 25-foot 3-pointer uncontested – only the second long outside shot the Tigers took to apply the coup de grace and it was 55-37 with 5:20 to go, allowing extensive garbage time.


 



DAGGER IN THE HEART! Jordan Griffith, far left watches his “Tre” rip the cords for a 55-37 lead with 5 and change left in the game.


 


 


Sean Kilpatrick and Jamell Cromartie combined for 27 of the Tigers 33 points  in the first half. The talented Junior was on fire, pouring in 19 points, 8 in the first quarter and 11 in the second quarter. Cromartie has a talent for making the run-starting shot that jacks the Tigers up and demoralizes the opponent. In the second quarter, White Plains ahead 23-17 and Woodlands gaining some confidence, The Crow fired in a 3-pointer for a 26-17 lead at the 5:28 mark


 



 


Sean Kilpatrick,  Making it Happen with the second of three straight late in the second quarter.


 



Bullseye! Sean Kilpatrick drills one from the foul line for a 33-21 lead at the half. Kilpatrick had 19 points in the first half and keyed the Tigers in the third quarter.  


 


Sean Kilpatrick took over the game with three straight buckets.. He followed with a layup at 4:36; a one-hander at 1:53 to make it 31-21, and another one-hander to build a 33-21 lead at the half.


 


 


 


As the Second Half started, Cromartie did it again. Taking the inbounds pass he went coast-to-coast right down Broadway and drew the foul and sunk the charity throw for a 36-23 lead, setting the tone. After stepped-up defensive by Woodlands brought them within 38- 31,  Kilpatrick followed with three Tiger 2s in a row – a one-hander uncontested right side to make it 40-31 at 5:27; an uncontested layup right down the right lane at 4:52, 42-31, and another baseline drive at 4:11 for a 44-31  Tiger lead. Even though Woodlands held off the tigers they could not close the gap the last 2:23 of the period setting the stage for the Spencer Smith, Jamell Cromartie rip-your-heart out run at the opening of the 4th quarter.


 


White Plains runs their record to 7-0 and will play the winner of Stepanac and Xaverian Friday night at 8 in the Championship round of the Slam Dunk Tournament.

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Tigers Zone and 3Q Surge, Cromartie FTs Frustrate Cardinal Hayes, 55-46.

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WPCNR PRESS BOX. By “Hardwood” Bailey. December 27, 2006: White Plains High survived the pinball rims of the County Center this afternoon, defeating Cardinal Hayes High of The Bronx, 55-46 in their opener of the 2006 Slam Dunk Tournament when nothing was falling except Jamal Cromartie’s free throws which iced the game.


 



“Mr. Elegance,” Sean Kilpatrick(23)  taking a baseline pass from Rashad James (1), has just put up an uncontested backdoor layup to make the score 39-34 in the opening minute of the 4th quarter to give the Tigers the backbreaker bucket. Photos, WPCNR Sports


 



“The Crow” Picks them off — Jamell Cromartie, fouled five times in the 4th quarter sunk 9 of 10 from the line for the final 55-46 margin.


 


The uneasy contest, which waited for someone- anyone to get hot all day turned on  three backdoor plays at the close of the third quarter by Spencer Smith,  Jamell Cromartie and Spencer again with seconds to go staked WP to a 37-34 lead at the three quarter mark. Sean Kilpatrick, missing in action through half the third due to 2 personals in the 1st quarter, took a  cross court no-look pass from the left point  as he was flying unguarded down the right lane on the backdoor from Rashad James in the first 30 seconds of Quarter 4 to make the lead 39-34 with 7:30 to go in the game.



After two defensive stops creating turnovers by the come and-out-and-get you Tiger Zone, Jordan Griffith, replacing Kilpatrick who fouled out, took a backcourt pass from Cromartie in stride and  drove the lane with a windmill dipsy-doodle layup to make it 41-36, Rashaan Johnson, who was betrayed by the rims all afternoon, drove the paint to sink a layup to make it 43-36 with 5:15 to go, putting the Cardinals in a deep hole.


 


With the Cardinals over the 10-foul limit in a foul-pocked game (40 personals of the ticky-tack variety were called) , the Cardinals kept fouling the best free throw shooter on the planet, Jamel Cromartie who sank 9 of 10 free throws in the Bonus situation to put the contest out of reach.


 


The Cardinals’ three-point eyes were way off, shooting under 40% for the first half and unofficially matching that futility in the second half, putting in only 21 points in the second half.  The Tiger percentage was not better. The ball would not drop today for either team, consistently jouncing around on the livewire County Center rims that reverbed the shots like pinballs.


 


The Tigers allowed a series of uncontested three-pointers by Randy Garcia in the second half to bring Cardinal Hayes to a 25-25 tie at the half. Had the Cardinals’ eyes been on, the Tigers could easily have lost this one.


 



THE TIGERS ‘MOZONE” — Third Quarter Turnover City. Randy Garcia, Hayes long range bomber could not hit 3s and penetrations were collapsed.


 


The Tigers played a more “MOZONE”  coming out and challenging shots to hold Hayes to 9 points, and cause by unofficial count about 5 turnovers in the third alone setting up the late third quarter-early fourth quarter mini-breakout that eased the game out of reach at 43-36.


 


 


The Tigers record moves to 6-0 on the season and they will play Woodlands Thursday afternoon at 4:30 at the County Center as the 2006 Slam Dunk Tournament continues.


 


Woodlands defeated Uniondale of Long Island, 45-36; Xaverian defeated New Rochelle, 53-45 and Pelham downed Lakeland, 46-41. Stepinac defeated Peekskill 73-69.  Stepinac plays Xaverian at 8 PM Thursday, in the winners bracket. Uniondale plays Cardinal Hayes at 11:15 AM and New Ro plays Peekskill at 1 P.M.

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