State Sen. Thomas Morahan, R-New City; County Sheriff James Kralik; and County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef will speak. They will outline their vision of Rockland’s future and their plans for the campaign season, according to a party statement.

Vanderhoef is seeking re-election to a fifth four-year term. He is also running on the Conservative and Independence lines.

He is being challenged by Orangetown Town Supervisor Thom Kleiner on the Democratic line, and Andrew Spence on the Working Families line.

Election Day is Nov. 3.

Each bus has about 150,000 miles, and are “beyond their useful life…due to the the tremendous number of miles TRIPS logs each day, County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef said.

The county has replaced the buses with new ones purchased using funding from the Federal Transit Administration.

Meanwhile, Clarkstown’s fleet has exceeded 300,000 miles per bus, Town Supervisor Alex Gromack said.

Town mechanics will refurbish the donated buses for use by the town’s Mini Trans service, Gromack said, a move that will help save the town about $300,000 by avoiding the need to buy new buses for the next two to three years.

Above, Gromack, left, and Vanderhoef, right. Photo provided by Vanderhoef’s office.

He said the study confirmed the dangers of tanning beds and their ultraviolet radiation. It pointed out that the risk of skin melanoma was increased 75 percent when people started using tanning beds before age 30, Wolfe said.

Why does he care so much about the topic?

Because back in 2006, Wolfe authored a bill to ban tanning for anyone under 16 and to require parental consent for those 16 and 17. The Legislature passed it, County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef vetoed it, then legislators overrode the veto and made it law.

Wolfe says as a result of the study’s findings, the French-based International Agency for Cancer Research, part of the World Health Organization, has designated ultraviolet tanning beds as “carcinogenic to humans,” meaning they cause cancer.

“Hopefully this latest study will encourage people to make smarter health decisions, and encourage our young adults not to engage in a practice that could have devastating impact on their health,” Wolfe said.

Next up: Wolfe and the other 16 legislators will eventually consider, again, whether to pass a calorie-posting law to require chain restaurants to put the number of calories on their menu boards. Supporters hope such a law will encourage people to make smarter health decisions and to not engage in a practice that could devastate their health.

This has proven to be a dance with danger and frustration as drivers are forced to cut off approaching cars or drive through the traffic light as it turns red. Drivers can easily sit at the intersection for three or four lights as they wait to make the turn.

I can flat out say, trying to make that left is the most stressful part of my daily driving.

They’ve been studying this intersection for years. Passing drivers have frequently seen the car counters – people who watch the traffic flow and appear to be literally noting the number of vehicles and the efficiency of movement on clipboards.

The worst part about it? Left-turn arrows are in place at the other three turning points, so, yeah, it’s just the left I – and scores of other drivers – need to make that’s messed up.

But finally, the problem has been solved.

I was pretty happy the other day when I approached the light and saw a bright green left-turn arrow that was going my way.

Ramapo Town Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence said the light was upgraded by the state after he requested the Department of Transportation to study the intersection.

“The modification to the signal greatly impacts upon driver safety,” St. Lawrence said. “The improved conditions are already noticeable for motorists making left turns.”

The party is expected to nominate incumbent County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef, who is seeking his fifth four-year term. Vanderhoef, 60, has served since 1994.

Last week, county Democrats endorsed Thom Kleiner, 50, as their party’s choice for the county executive’s seat. He has served as Orangetown supervisor since 1997 and is in his seventh two-year term.

The Dems also nominated incumbent Paul Piperato for the County Clerk’s post, which he has held since 2005.

No word yet on whether the GOP will run a candidate against Piperato, who is popular with constituents on both sides of the aisle.

Right, C. Scott Vanderhoef

Aimee Vargas, the committee’s executive director, said today that the main purpose of the meeting will be to show support for Orangetown town Supervisor Thom Kleiner, who is challenging incumbent C. Scott Vanderhoef, a Republican, for the county executive’s seat; and to back Paul Piperato, who is thus far unchallenged as he seeks re-election as county clerk. 

Among the key Democrats expected to attend: County Democratic Committee Chairman Vincent Monte; and Democratic town chairs,  Nicole Doliner, Clarkstown; O. Fred Miller, Haverstraw; Toney Earl, Ramapo; and John Brenner, Stony Point; and Orangetown Democratic Acting Town Chair Michael Hogan.

Above, top, Thom Kleiner; above, Paul Piperato.

ORANGEBURG — Rockland’s five town supervisors will hold a forum to allow residents to comment on Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc.’s proposal to increase its rates after the state said it would not hold public hearings.
Meanwhile, O&R said it wanted to discuss the hearings with the state Public Service Commission due to public concern.
“Based on the growing public sentiment, we intend to speak to the PSC about their position on this issue,” O&R spokesman Michael Donovan said.
Orangetown town Supervisor Thom Kleiner, chairman of the Rockland County Town Supervisors’ Association, said the June 15 forum would be held because the PSC “is refusing to hold a public hearing on the proposed rate hike, denying Rocklanders a public forum in which they can express their views on O&R’s efforts to increase ratepayer costs, as has been done in the past.”
O&R wants approval from the PSC, which oversees most utilities in New York, to increase the amount of money it charges to deliver natural gas.
The company’s proposal would raise the typical monthly delivery charge by $12.05, or 5.44 percent, for an overall annual increase of $144.60.
The new rate would take effect Nov. 1, but the company has proposed phasing in the increase over a three-year period, from 2009 to 2011.
The PSC told The Journal News May 13 that it would only accept comments submitted online, by mail or via the commission’s opinion line. A public input session, a previous custom, will not be held, the PSC said.
Kleiner said the PSC had an obligation to respond to the public, whether it was through a formal public hearing conducted by the commission, or the one that will be facilitated by elected officials.
He said transcripts would be provided to O&R and the PSC. O&R has been invited to participate and PSC will also be asked to attend, Kleiner said.
PSC spokeswoman Anne Dillon said yesterday that the commission would accept the transcripts.
Ramapo Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence has intervened in the case and has been critical of O&R’s request, which includes money for the hiring of 23 new workers and to help O&R close a $1.9 million gap in its pension plan, which has suffered because of the economic downturn.
He has also accused the company of seeking too much profit for itself and its shareholders at the expense of ratepayers.
Donovan has said PSC law allowed companies to address their pension plans and to cover new job hires as part of a revenue increase request.
He declined to comment on the profit issue, saying it was part of confidential negotiations now going on regarding a possible settlement of the case.
St. Lawrence said that he had also written to request the PSC hold a formal public input session, and that he also supported the public forum.

GET DETAILS ON THE FORUM AND O&R’S PROPOSAL, INCLUDING HOW TO SUBMIT COMMENT, BELOW.

FORUM

The Rockland County Town Supervisors’ Association will hold a forum at 7:45 p.m. June 15 at Orangetown Town Hall, 26 Orangeburg Road, to allow residents to comment on Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc.’s proposal to increase its gas delivery charge.

RATE HIKE REQUEST

Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc. seeks to increase rates
Under the plan, the monthly delivery charge for O&R customers would rise by $12.06, or 5.44 percent, from $221.37 to $233.43. The overall increase for the year would be $144.60.
Case documents can be viewed at www.dps.state.ny.us. Click on “commission documents.” Enter 08-G-1398 in the “Search for case/matter” box. Turn off pop-up blockers to open the documents.
The deadline for submitting comment is July 30. All comments should include the line, “Case 08-G-1398 — Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc. — Gas Rates.”
• Call the PSC Opinion Line at 800-335-2120.
• Visit www.askpsc.com to submit e-mail.
• Mail written comment to Jaclyn A. Brilling, Secretary, Public Service Commission, 3 Empire State Plaza, 14th floor, Albany, NY 12223-1350.

Assembly members Ellen Jafffee, D-Suffern, and Kenneth Zebrowski, D-New City, have also just emailed us with more details about the help being made available to these jobless residents.

The new legislation was needed to allow the state to accept a one-time federal grant of $645 million for unemployment compensation. The bill extends the unemployment benefit for 13 more weeks.

“This federal stimulus money will help the state cover current benefit claims – vitally important because there are many New Yorkers filing claims for the first time,” Jaffee stated.

Zebrowski said the benefit money would also aid the state’s economy.

“The money spent on unemployment benefits also has a positive return into the economy,” he stated. “For every $1 spent on unemployment, $1.68 is put back into the economy because the recipients are spending these funds on necessary items at local businesses.”

Read the full news release, verbatim, below.

Assembly passes legislation to extend unemployment benefits

Albany, NY – Assemblymembers Ellen Jaffee and Kenneth Zebrowski announced passage of legislation allowing the state to receive a one-time federal grant of $645 million for unemployment compensation. The legislation (A.8273) would allow a 13-week extension to those currently receiving unemployment benefits.  Assemblywoman Jaffee was a co-sponsor of the bill.

“New York has been hit especially hard by job loss. Workers from Wall Street to Main Street are losing their jobs at an unprecedented rate,” Assemblywoman Jaffee said. “This federal stimulus money will help the state cover current benefit claims – vitally important because there are many New Yorkers filing claims for the first time.”

Unemployment insurance benefits are currently provided for 26 weeks to employees who are ready, willing, and able to work but are unemployed through no fault of their own. In 2008 and February 2009, the federal government provided an additional 33 weeks of benefits, for which they paid 100 percent of the cost, for a total of 59 weeks of benefits for New York State claimants. There are 56,000 jobless New Yorkers whose unemployment benefits will run out next week without this legislation, with at least 5,000 more a week after that.

“This package of legislation will provide New Yorkers with sufficient unemployment benefits so that people can provide for their families during this tough time,” Assemblyman Zebrowski said. “The money spent on unemployment benefits also has a positive return into the economy. For every $1 spent on unemployment, $1.68 is put back into the economy because the recipients are spending these funds on necessary items at local businesses.”

The Assembly’s legislation uses federal stimulus funds to further help unemployed New Yorkers and:

•    extends benefits for an additional 13 weeks, for a total of 72 weeks of benefits;
•    extends benefits an  additional 7 weeks when the state has a total unemployment rate of 8 percent or greater – for a maximum of 79 weeks (as of April 2009, the New York State unemployment rate was 7.8 percent);
•    ensures that workers who must leave work for certain family reasons, including domestic abuse and the sickness or disability of a family member, may collect unemployment insurance benefits; and
•    provides that part-time workers can seek part-time work to qualify for benefits.

The legislation has also passed in the Senate and is awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Kaitlin Dinet and Justin Mathew were each presented with the Joseph A. Myers Outstanding Youth Volunteer Service Award and a $1,000 scholarship made possible by donations from local businesses and residents.

Dinet is a senior at Pearl River High School, a Girl Scout, and volunteers at senior citizen centers. She also helped with the renovation of the Sept. 11th Memorial at Pearl River High School.

Justin Mathew is a junior at Clarkstown South High School, and a volunteer with the New City Ambulance Corps, West Nyack Library and People to People. He is also a leader of Rockland Family Shelter’s Student Activists Ending Dating Abuse, or SAEDA, program.

John Marra was presented with the Father F. Peter Malet Service to Youth Adult Volunteer Award. He is coordinator of Student Activities and Volunteer Services at Rockland Community College.

Marra has volunteered with Every Person Influences Children, or EPIC, and is the facilitator for its Dads Only program. He also volunteers with People to People and annually participates in the Great American Cleanup.

The Suffern Community Foundation was also presented with the Malet Award.

The not-for-profit organization was founded in 1995. Its mission is to benefit young people and families in the village of Suffern and surrounding communities by raising money, promoting activities and offering educational programs, including the annual DARE holiday toy drive, Eagle Scout projects and a Summer Journal program for kindergarten students.

Awards were presented by County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef, County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell and Rockland BOCES Superintendent Mary Jean Marisco.

The dinner and ceremony were sponsored by the Rockland County Youth Bureau’s volunteer board of directors.

The photo above was shot by staffer Peter Carr last night.

Thurgood Marshall Day is set for Sunday and every May 17 that follows, following the state Assembly’s unanimous approval of a measure that was sponsored by Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, D-Suffern.

The legislation next goes to the Senate and also has to be signed into law by the governor before it takes effect. Passage of the law is expected.

While Marshall is a highly regarded attorney and national civil rights leader, he also has important ties to Rockland.

Marshall is perhaps best known for representing the NAACP in the historic 1954 Brown vs. Board of Education case, which led the Supreme Court to declare the segregation of public schools illegal in the United States.

But earlier, in 1943, Marshall stood with a group of African-American families and successfully argued for the desegregation of the Main School, now called Hillburn School, in Ramapo.

“He championed the most important premises of democratic government – freedom, equality, and justice for all and successfully utilized the courthouse to advocate for and champion the cause of equal treatment under the law,” Jaffee stated yesterday.

Some local Rockland leaders headed to Albany to be present for the Assembly’s vote yesterday.

This photo was provided by Jaffee’s office.

(Left to right, standing) Bill Thorne; Spring Valley village Mayor George Darden; County Legislator Bill Darden, D-Hillcrest; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s president, Les St. Louis, and Willie Bryant; Spring Valley NAACP President Willie Trotman; Jaffee; Merle George, the Rev. Walter Brightman; Jesse Jones; (left to right, sitting) Spring Valley Kiwanis President Lenora McCabe; Spring Valley Democratic Committee Chairperson Pat Caldwell; and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority member Virginia Beasley. Thorne, George and Jones are members of the Spring Valley NAACP.

Above, Marshall, then-chief counsel for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, talks to reporters in New York City in this May 31, 1955 photo. 1996. (AP Photo/File)

Vanderhoef still wasn’t saying if he’ll seek reelection to a fifth four-year term when I spoke to him today.

Orangetown town Supervisor Thom Kleiner announced last month that he’ll run on the Democratic line for the county executive’s post.

Day said today that it just wasn’t the right time for a run.

Read his statement, verbatim, below.

Also, we’ll have a full story on Day’s decision in The Journal News and here on LoHud tomorrow, so please check back if you’re interested.

Statement Regarding the Rockland County Executive’s Race
New City, NY (March 27th, 2009) – Legislator Ed Day, the Rockland County Legislative Minority Leader, (New City-Haverstraw) released the following statement regarding the 2009 election for Rockland County Executive:

Recently I stated that my family and I had made the decision that if an opportunity to serve and do a greater good in higher office presented itself, I would absolutely be open to leaving my present employment as a security consultant in New York City to become a full time elected government official.

I am humbled by the numerous calls and messages I have received from so many people in our Rockland community, and also within the Republican Party, encouraging me do to seek that opportunity this year in the race for County Executive. I thank all of them for their good wishes, support, and belief. But after speaking with those many supporters, and fully assessing the entire matter, I have concluded that the timing is just not right to enter that particular race this year.

My initial involvement in government was borne from being a strong advocate for the people as a civic leader and a desire to bring responsible government to my community. That zeal continues to this very day. I have pursued legislative initiatives designed to protect citizens, to do more with less by establishing cost containment in government, and simply try to make things a little bit easier for those I serve.

I thoroughly enjoy using my life experiences and skills to represent the people in the Rockland County Legislature, and have found over my three plus years in elective office that I have had a positive effect on our community. I will continue to be a fervent advocate for the citizens in my District and for all the people of Rockland, while looking towards opportunities that may provide a potential to serve my community in a greater capacity in the future.

Kelter, who goes by Sophia Salis on the show, announced her departure on-air this morning, which brought a number of calls from listeners who wished her well, but were clearly saddened by her exit.

Kelter has served as the station’s program director for the past eight years, according to a news release issued today by O&R’s spokesman, Mike Donovan. She starts April 1, he said.

In her new job, Kelter, who turned 30 Sunday, will help promote “awareness and understanding of Company policies, programs and procedures, both within the Company and its subsidiaries, and among the general public. She also will help to manage the liaison activities between the Company and the community’s public officials,” the news release states.

Kelter attended St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, graduating magna cum laude in 2001 with a B.A. degree in communication arts. She has often participated in charity events and sits on the board of directors of the Mental Health Association of Rockland County.

She and her husband, Jason Kelter, live in Suffern and are expecting their first child.

Her show partner, Steve Possell, said on-air this morning that a new co-host will be announced tomorrow. WRCR, which is based at the Nanuet Mall, is at 1300 on the AM dial.

Salis arrived on the scene shortly after WRKL Radio was sold and began broadcasting in Polish, a situation that left a void for local radio fans who had grown to depend on RKL for everything from news interviews with the county’s wheelers and dealers to top advice from gardening experts.

Over the years, WRCR began to fill that local radio void, with Salis’ morning show serving as a place to catch elected officials offering updates on their efforts and to hear taxpayer and voter concerns, among other topics.

Above, Salis participated in the Stony Point Seals’ annual Polar Plunge on Super Bowl Sunday in 2006, jumping into the freezing Hudson River to help raise funds for charity. Here, she is seen with Mike Lydon of Stony Point. The photo was taken by staffer Kathy Gardner.

New York state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is scheduled to visit Rockland in an effort to help raise funds for State Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, D-Suffern.

The fundraiser is set for 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. March 29 at Pretty Penny, the historic home of Helen Hayes, who was, and I think still is, considered the First Lady of American Theater. “Younger” folks would best remember Hayes from all the old Love Bug movies. She also played a great stowaway in the original Airport movie.

Anyway, since her death at age 92 exactly 16 years ago today, several new owners are said to have spent considerable money updating the Nyack home. The only drag is that the public can’t enjoy it without a special invite, since a brick wall and trees were put up by one of those owners, Rosie O’Donnell, who needed to beef up her security. While Hayes lived there, it was open for all to see, and each spring, she was fond of inviting the public in to see her roses.

If you want more info about Jaffee’s fundraiser, call Sande Lefkowitz at 845-641-3835.

The event will also recognize Avi Nagin, 17, of Pomona, a violinist who has been named concertmaster of the New York State Youth Symphony.

The gathering will mark the new displays of art by photographer Ned Harris, sculptor Eric David Laxman, and painters James Kimak, Eleanor Grace Miller and Michael Iskowitz. Each has art work on exhibit at the Legislature’s offices, including the public waiting room and workers’ offices.

The displays are the result of the county’s “Percent for Art Law,” Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell, D-West Nyack, said. The law was passed by the Legislature in 1986 and incorporates the selection and placement of artwork into construction projects on county government property.  Cornell said the Legislature’s lobby and offices were chosen following the renovation of those spaces, a project undertaken in 2006.

Nagin will perform during the ceremony Wednesday, and Cornell said there would be a short slide show highlighting the various art on view publicly at county-government buildings and property.
Legislators Connie Coker, D-South Nyack, and Ilan Schoenberger, D-Wesley Hills, will present Nagin with the legislature’s distinguished service award.

The public can attend the 6:15 p.m. ceremony.

We’ll have a story on the event with more details about the Percent for Art program in The Journal News and on LoHud.com tomorrow.

Above: Laxman works on a sculpture of welded steel and stone called “Plow” in this 2006 photo by Journal News staffer Mark Vergari.

In a press release issued today, Vanderhoef’s office said the county executive would announce “several new initiatives concerning property taxes, housing and jobs” during his address.

Vanderhoef, a Republican, is currently in the final year of his fourth four-year term as county executive. He has not yet announced if he will seek a fifth term. Orangetown town Supervisor Thom Kleiner, a Democrat, has declared his candidacy for the office.

Vanderhoef, who earns $$137,765 annually, will deliver his remarks during the start of the County Legislature’s regular meeting.

The announcement was made during a ceremony hosted by County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef and County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell.

The county decided to create the unpaid position in honor of RCC’s 50th anniversary. Cornell said the college had sought to establish such a position and the timing made sense.

As poet laureate, Masterson, who lives in Pearl River, will help determine the protocol to be used to establish future poet laureates, Cornell said. He will also conduct poetry readings, among possible other tasks, she said.

In speaking today, Vanderhoef recalled his old friend and mentor, Lester E. Rounds, himself a poet. In 1954, Rounds, then superintendent of the Ramapo Central School District, wrote a doctoral dissertation showing the need for a community college.

By the spring of 1959, RCC had taken shape, graduating its first class of 39 students in 1961.

Today, the college also has campuses in Spring Valley and Haverstraw, in addition to the main Ramapo campus. Enrollment is about 6,600 and a typical graduating class hovers around 1,200.

The photo shows, from left to right, Masterson, Cornell and Vanderhoef. It was provided by Vanderhoef’s office.

Read the press release on the event, verbatim, after the break.

Vanderhoef, Cornell name Pearl River resident as Rockland’s first Poet Laureate

New City, NY – Rockland County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef and Rockland County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell today named Pearl River resident Dan Masterson as Rockland’s first Poet Laureate for 2009-2011.

For the past 45 years Masterson has been teaching English at Rockland Community College, including numerous poetry courses and workshops. The world-renowned poet has given more than one thousand poetry readings, lectures and seminars on the national poetry circuit.

“We are thrilled to welcome and congratulate Dan Masterson as Rockland’s first Poet Laureate,” said Vanderhoef. “With a love and passion for poetry, he has encouraged many and will continue to have a lasting impact on them.”

Masterson is the recipient of the State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, two Pushcart Prizes, along with the Bullis, Borestone, and Fels national poetry prizes. He is the author of four published books, On Earth as It Is, Those Who Trespass, All Things, Seen and Unseen and World Without End. Masterson’s work has appeared in various publications including Esquire, The New Yorker and The London Magazine.

“Dan is a prize-winning poet whose poems have appeared in major publications on two continents. He has taught and mentored new generations of poets, authors and screenwriters. He is the perfect person to serve as Rockland’s first Poet Laureate,” said Cornell. “Not only will he bring distinction to this post, he will also remind us that poetry has the power to reveal the human condition in all its aspects. I am particularly pleased that he has agreed to establish a protocol for selection of future Poet Laureates for Rockland.”

Masterson is grateful to many poets who have inspired him including legendary Rockland poets Marya Zaturenska and Horace Gregory. He resides in Pearl River with his wife Janet where they welcome their two children and their families.

Dr. Cliff L. Wood, President, Rockland Community College, said, “The College is proud to have world-renowned poet Dan Masterson as a member of our faculty. He has inspired decades of students, from our honors students who have gone on to the Ivy League, to those who simply needed to learn the fine art of expression.”

In celebration of Rockland Community College’s 50th Anniversary, a poetry event will be held in November at the college where Masterson and his former students will present poetry. Details of the event will be announced at a later date.

From the email, verbatim: “You mentioned that I didn’t want to hold a public meeting. That’s not entirely accurate, as both the committee meeting and full Legislature are public meetings and all are entitled to attend and be heard. What I said was that I wasn’t going to hold a public hearing, which is a much different thing.”

BACK TO THE ORIGINAL POST:

When the Rockland Legislature meets tomorrow, it is likely to consider a resolution calling for the government body to recognize Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. The measure has been proposed by Legislator Alden Wolfe, D-Suffern.

Hamas governs Gaza, where fighting began Dec. 27 after Israel launched an air attack and followed with a land invasion. A cease fire was agreed upon by the two sides Sunday. Israel said it attacked Gaza to get at Hamas terrorists, which have been firing rockets onto Israel. Hamas was democratically elected by the Palestinian people, but Israel, the U.S. and other nations consider it a terror organization.

Wolfe is among those strongly opposed to Hamas. He outlines his reasons in a proposed resolution that is 3-plus pages long.

But he’s meeting up with opposition from those who say the resolution is unfair and one-sided.

Alan Levin, of Nyack, has created an online petition so like-minded Rocklanders can voice their view on the resolution. He, and others, want the measure to be voted down or postponed until all the issues regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be discussed in a public forum.

Levin, who also wonders if it is county government’s role to pass a resolution regarding another nation’s foreign policy, has also written to the Legislature to express his views.

So far, Wolfe says he won’t hold a public meeting.

The Legislature meets at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Allison-Parris County Office Building, 11 New Hempstead Road in New City. The public can speak on the resolution. Sign up when you arrive for the meeting. Each person gets up to two minutes.

Keep reading for the full texts of Wolfe’s resolution and Levin’s letter to the Legislature. We’ll also have a story in The Journal News and on LoHud.com later.

THIS IS LEGISLATOR ALDEN WOLFE’S RESOLUTION, VERBATIM. ALTHOUGH IT STATES THAT IT IS A DRAFT, WOLFE SAID TODAY THAT IT IS THE RESOLUTION THAT WILL GO BEFORE LEGISLATORS TUESDAY.

DRAFT

Introduced by: Referral No.
Hon. Alden H. Wolfe, Sponsor

RESOLUTION NO. OF 2009
EXPRESSING THE ROCKLAND COUNTY LEGISLATURE’S SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL, RECOGNIZING ISRAEL’S RIGHT TO DEFEND ITSELF AGAINST ATTACKS FROM GAZA, AND SUPPORTING THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN PEACE PROCESS

WHEREAS, Hamas was founded with the stated goal of destroying the State of Israel; and
WHEREAS, Hamas has been designated by the United States as a Foreign Terrorist Organization; and
WHEREAS, Hamas has refused to comply with the Quartet’s (the United States, the European Union, Russia, and the United Nations) requirements that Hamas recognize Israel’s right to exist, renounce violence, and agree to accept previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians; and
WHEREAS, in June 2006, Hamas illegally crossed into Israel, attacked Israeli forces, and kidnapped Corporal Gilad Shalit, whom they continue to hold today; and
WHEREAS, Hamas has launched thousands of rockets and mortars against Israeli population centers since 2001, and has launched more than 6,000 such rockets and mortars since Israel withdrew its civilian population and its military from Gaza in 2005; and
WHEREAS, Hamas has increased the range and payload of its rockets, reportedly with support from Iran and others, putting hundreds of thousands of Israelis in danger of rocket attacks from Gaza; and
WHEREAS, Hamas locates elements of its terrorist infrastructure in civilian population centers, thus using innocent civilians as human shields; and
WHEREAS, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said in a statement on December 27, 2008, that “We strongly condemn the repeated rocket and mortar attacks against Israel and hold Hamas responsible for breaking the cease-fire and for the renewal of violence there”; and
WHEREAS, on December 27, 2008, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said, “For approximately seven years, hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens in the south have been suffering from missiles being fired at them . . . In such a situation we had no alternative but to respond. We do not rejoice in battle but neither will we be deterred from it. . . .The operation in the Gaza Strip is designed, first and foremost, to bring about an improvement in the security reality for the residents of the south of the country”; and
WHEREAS, the humanitarian situation in Gaza, including shortages of food, water, electricity, and adequate medical care, is becoming more acute; and
WHEREAS, Israel has facilitated humanitarian aid to Gaza with hundreds of trucks carrying humanitarian assistance and numerous ambulances entering the Gaza Strip since the current round of fighting began on December 27, 2008;
WHEREAS, on January 6, 2009, before the United Nations Security Council, Secretary Rice stated that: “The situation before the current events in Gaza was clearly not sustainable. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis lived under the daily threat of rocket attack, and frankly, no country, none of our countries, would have been willing to tolerate such a circumstance. Moreover, the people of Gaza watched as insecurity and lawlessness increased and as their living conditions grew more dire because of Hamas’s actions which began with the illegal coup against the Palestinian Authority in Gaza. . .A ceasefire that returns to those circumstances is unacceptable and it will not last”; and
WHEREAS, the ultimate goal of the United States is a sustainable resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that will ensure the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and a viable, independent, and democratic Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel; and
WHEREAS, the Committee has met, considered and by a vote approved this resolution; now therefore be it RESOLVED, That the Rockland County Legislature hereby:

(1) expresses vigorous support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and recognizes its right to act in self-defense to protect its citizens against Hamas’s unceasing aggression, as enshrined in the United Nations Charter;

(2) reiterates that Hamas must end the rocket and mortar attacks against Israel, recognize Israel’s right to exist, renounce violence, agree to accept previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians, and verifiably dismantle its terrorist infrastructure;

(3) encourages the federal administration to work actively to support a durable and sustainable cease-fire in Gaza, as soon as possible, that prevents Hamas from retaining or rebuilding its terrorist infrastructure, including the capability to launch rockets and mortars against Israel, and thereby allowing for the long-term improvement of daily living conditions for the people of Gaza;

(4) believes strongly that the lives of innocent civilians must be protected to the maximum extent possible, expresses condolences to innocent Palestinian and Israeli victims and their families, and reiterates that humanitarian needs in Gaza should be addressed promptly and responsibly;

(5) calls on our State officials to join our Federal officials in:

(A) condemning Hamas for deliberately embedding its fighters, leaders, and weapons in private homes, schools, mosques, hospitals, and otherwise using Palestinian civilians as human shields, while simultaneously targeting Israeli civilians; and

(B) laying blame both for the breaking of the ‘calm’ and for subsequent civilian casualties in Gaza precisely where blame belongs, that is, on Hamas;

(6) supports and encourages efforts to diminish the appeal and influence of extremists in the Palestinian territories, and strengthen moderate Palestinians who are committed to a secure and lasting peace with Israel;

(7) calls on Egypt to intensify its efforts to halt smuggling between Gaza and Egypt and affirms the willingness of the United States to continue to assist Egypt in these efforts;

(8) calls for the immediate release of the kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who has been illegally held in Gaza since June 2006; and

(9) reiterates its strong support for a just and sustainable resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict achieved through negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority in order to ensure the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and a viable, independent, and democratic Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel.

RESOLVED, that the Clerk to the Legislature be and is hereby authorized and directed to send a certified copy of this resolution to Barack Obama, President of the United States; Hillary Rodham Clinton, United States Secretary of State; Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, United States Ambassador to the United Nations; Gabriela Shalev, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations; Sallai Meridor, Israeli Ambassador to the United States; Consul General Asaf Shariv and Deputy Consul General Benjamin Krasna of the Office of the Consul General in New York; Hon. Charles Schumer, United States Senator; Hon. Eliot Engel, Hon. Nita Lowey and Hon. John Hall, Members of the United States Congress, New York State Governor David A. Paterson; Hon. Thomas P. Morahan, New York State Senator, Hon. Kenneth P. Zebrowski, Jr., Hon. Ellen C. Jaffee, Hon. Nancy Calhoun, and Ann G. Rabbitt, Members of the New York State Assembly; the President Pro Tem of the New York State Senate; the Speaker of the New York State Assembly; the Majority and Minority Leaders of the New York State Senate and Assembly; and to such other persons as the Clerk, in his discretion, may deem proper in order to effectuate the purpose of this resolution

THIS IS ALAN LEVIN’S LETTER TO THE ROCKLAND COUNTY LEGISLATURE, VERBATIM.

To: All Rockland County Legislators:
Regarding: The Proposed Resolution “In Support of Israel…..”I respectfully request that this proposed resolution be voted down or at least postponed during which time a respectful and more meaningful resolution can be prepared (if it is decided there needs to be one at all).

The situation in the middle east and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people is long and very complex. It is not the place of the Rockland County Legislature to vote on a summary of its history, especially one that tells only one side of the story. The history presented in the resolution represents only those points used by the Israeli government to justify its recent actions in Gaza. As in all conflicts, there are very compelling facts and analyses that tell a very different story. It is unfair and, in fact, destructive, to present only one view as true.

There is no mention of any of the narrative from the Israeli peace movement let alone the Palestinian point of view. Many Jewish organizations oppose the Israeli military action both on humanitarian grounds and because they feel it further jeapordizes the safety and future of the Israeli people. Just as many (most?) people in Rockland County oppose the U.S. actions in Iraq and do so because of humanitarian concerns and because they believe that such military adventures are hurtful to U.S. interests, many Jews and Israelis oppose Israel’s resort to the current massive violence.

The following issues are only a short list of important facts and issues that are very related to what is now going on. My point here is not to argue that these are true and the other wrong. Only that it is not helpful to pass a resolution that ignores these things that are part of the conflict. There is no account in the County Resolution of 40 years of Occupation of Palestinian territory, thousands of prisoners held without trial (many tortured), targeted assassinations during the cease fire periods (that kill family members and neighbors), home demolitions, increasing the size and number of settlements, the blockade of basic food, medicine and fuel, checkpoints that prevent people from going to school and hospitals, the ongoing billions of dollars a year in military supplies by the U.S. to one side of the conflict, ongoing violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians.
Such one-sided resolutions only serve to increase the level of violence and give support to the right-wing views both in this country and Israel that have contributed to so much of the crisis.

For your consideration, please read the resolution at the end of this message, passed by an inter-faith network from the Boston area, comprising religious leaders from the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths.

I fully understand and appreciate the fears and concerns that motivate the resolution placed before you. As an American Jewish man, I have deep feelings for the people of the region. I ask you, for that very reason, to consider the actual intention and effect of whatever resolution you pass.
Respectfully,
Alan Levin
Nyack

P.S. A short petition, posted less than two days ago, has already gathered over 50 signatures of Rockland County residents.
“The undersigned feel very strongly that the currently drafted resolution before the Rockland County Legislature regarding the conflict in Israel/Palestine is one-sided and promotes further misunderstanding and inflames conflict rather than peace and justice. We ask that any decision be postponed and a public meeting be held to discuss drafting a resolution that truly represents support for peace and justice.”
————(The following resolution of an interfaith group, could easily be changed to say “We Members of the Rockland County Legislature, having deep and symbolic” ......)
We, members and leaders of the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities in Greater Boston – all having deep and symbolic ties to the land and peoples of the Middle East – are anguished by the events unfolding in Israel and Gaza. Recognizing the legitimate needs of all peoples, including all those living in the Middle East , for dignity, peace, safety and security ñ- regardless of religion, race, or national origin—we issue this joint statement with the hope and belief that our interfaith voices will be heard clearly, above the din of war.

As guiding principles,
• We acknowledge the long, complex, and painful history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

• We acknowledge the wide range of deeply-held beliefs, and intensely-felt narratives on all sides

• We acknowledge that all sides are capable of assigning blame to others, and asserting justification for their cause

• We observe that violence by any side begets more violence, hatred, and retaliation

• We deplore any invocation of religion as a justification for violence against others, or the deprivation of the rights of others

• We decry any use of inflammatory rhetoric that demonizes the other and is intended, or is likely, to promote hatred and disrespect

• We believe the conflict can be resolved only through a political and diplomatic solution and not a military one.

In the face of many competing narratives, we recognize that the overriding common need of the peoples of the region is the prompt implementation of a just and lasting peace. Toward that end, and particularly in response to the current hostilities,

• We call upon the United States and the international community immediately to intercede to help reestablish a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, toward the goal of a permanent cessation of hostilities

• We call upon Hamas immediately to end all rocket attacks on Israel, and upon Israel immediately to end its military campaign in Gaza

• We call for an immediate end to all strikes on civilian centers and citizens, both Israeli and Palestinian

• We call for lifting of the blockade on Gaza as to all non-military goods, for an immediate and significant increase in humanitarian aid to address the needs of the people of Gaza , and for all parties involved to join in taking responsibility to address those human needs

• We call on all parties involved in the conflict to work sincerely and vigorously toward a just and lasting peace that addresses and promotes the national aspirations of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples

• We call on President-elect Obama to make clear that as President he will urgently assert US leadership to achieve a comprehensive diplomatic resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian and Arab-Israeli conflicts
Through this joint statement we affirm our commitment to engage with one another, even, and especially, during times of great stress. We also affirm our common humanity and our common belief – as Jews, Muslims and Christians – that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict must cease, that there is no military or violent solution, that all human life is valued, and that all parties must cooperate to make the peace – a just and lasting peace desperately needed and deserved by all the peoples of the region.

Signed:

Salwa Abd-Allah, Executive Council, Muslim American Society of Boston
(MAS Boston ), Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center (ISBCC)
Tariq Ali, President, Harvard Islamic Society
Hossam AlJabri, President, MAS Boston-ISBCC; Trustee, Interreligious Center for Public Life (ICPL)
Rev. Dr. Jim Antal, President, United Church of Christ Mass. Conference

Abdul Cader Asmal, Past President, Islamic Council of New England and Islamic Center of Boston ; Trustee ICPL

Rabbi Al Axelrad, Hillel Director Emeritus, Brandeis University

Diane Balser, Executive Director, Brit Tzedek víShalom
Dorothy C. Buck, Ph.D., Director, Badaliya
Rev. Nick Carter, Ph.D., President, Andover Newton Theological School
Dris Djermoun, President, Islamic Center of Boston (Wayland)
Diana L. Eck, Professor, Harvard University
Imam Talal Eid, Islamic Institute of Boston ; Chaplain Brandeis University
Ashraf Elkerm, Board Chairman, Islamic Center of Greater Worcester
Rev. Dr. Terasa G. Cooley, Unitarian Universalist Mass. Bay District Executive
Mercedes S. Evans, Esq., Committee on Contemporary Spiritual & Public Concerns (CSPC Committee) (Civil Rights)

Imam Abdullah Faruuq, Imam, Mosque for the Praising of Allah (Roxbury)
Michael Felsen, President, Boston Workmen’s Circle
Lisa Gallatin, Executive Director, Boston Workmen’s Circle
Zekeriyya Gemici, President, MIT Muslim Students Association
Rabbi David Gordis
Rabbi Arthur Green, Rector, Rabbinical School, Hebrew College , Newton
Rev. Raymond G. Helmick, S.J., Instructor, Conflict Resolution, Boston College
Arnold Hiatt
Rev. Jack Johnson, Executive Director, MCC
M. Bilal Kaleem, Executive Director, MAS Boston-ISBCC
Anwar Kazmi, Executive Council, MAS Boston-ISBCC
Alexander Kern, Executive Director, Cooperative Metropolitan Ministries
Nabeel Khudairi, Past President, Islamic Council of New England
Idit Klein, Executive Director, Keshet
Margie Klein, Co-Director, Moishe/Kavod House
Mary Lahaj, Muslim Chaplain, Simmons College

Geoffrey Lewis
Imam Taalib Mahdee, Imam, Masjid Al-Quran, ( Dorchester )
Rev. Bert Marshall, Church World Service, New England Director
Jerome D. Maryon, Esq., President, CSPC Committee
Michael J. Moran, Pax Christi Massachusetts
Sister Jane Morrissey, SSJ, Pax Christi Massachusetts
Merrie Najimy, President, American Arab Anti-discrimination Committee, MA
Imam Khalid Nasr, Imam, ICNE-Quincy
Imam Basyouni Nehela, Imam, Islamic Society of Boston
Rashid Noor, President, Islamic Center of New England
Rabbi Sara Paasche-Orlow
Rabbi Barbara Penzner, Temple Hillel B’nai Torah
Rev. Rodney L. Petersen, Ph.D., Executive Director, Boston Theological Institute
Dr Asif Rizvi, President-Elect, Islamic Council of New England
Rabbi Victor Reinstein, Nehar Shalom
Rev. Anne Robertson, Executive Director, Massachusetts Bible Society
Qasim Salimi, President, Boston University Muslim Students Association
Robert M. Sarly, Trustee, ICPL

Rev. Mikel E. Satcher, Ph.D., Pastor, Trinity Baptist Church
Professor Adam Seligman, Boston University
Rabbi Sanford Seltzer, Chair, ICPL
Enid Shapiro, Trustee, ICPL
Rt. Rev. M. Thomas Shaw, SSJE, Episcopal Bishop, Diocese of Massachusetts
Alan Solomont
Rabbi Toba Spitzer, Congregation Dorshei Tzedek

Rev. John K. Stendahl, Pastor, Lutheran Church of the Newtons
Sidney Topol
Rabbi Andrew Vogel, Temple Sinai
Peter D. Weaver, Bishop, United Methodist Church , Boston Area

(Organizational affiliations for identification purposes only)

See also:

http://www.masboston.org/index.php?

action=view&id=130&module=newsmodule&src=%40random41940a897e943

http://bostonstandswithgaza.blogspot.com/

But the state has this thing about getting its revenue, and on time, too!

This year, due to the massive financial challenges now facing the Empire State, the state Department of Taxation will not be mailing any personal income tax forms and instructions to residents.

It will, instead, send out postcards with instructions as to how you can get the forms and instructions. The possibilities include visiting www.nystax.gov and local libraries.

Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski has sent out a news release to bring tax filers up to date. He said the Taxation Department estimates that fewer than 5 percent of New Yorkers use the mailed forms, opting instead to use a paid preparer or software. By skipping the mailing, Zebrowski said, the department also estimates it can save $1 million in printing and postage.

If you have a problem getting the materials you need to file your state taxes, Zebrowski said you can call him at 845-634-9791. The offer is good for any Rockland resident, not just those in his district, he said.

The gov decided to catch a meal at Restaurant X in Congers last night, arriving about 6 or 6:30 p.m. and staying most of the evening, according to Colleen Scollin, the well-regarded eatery’s main hostess.

Scollin described Paterson as a nice guy who shook hands with patrons and posed for pictures after he finished his meal. Of course, finishing up took a while because Restaurant X, owned by chef Peter Kelly, kept bringing out different dishes for him and his guest to sample. He was there with a lady, but Scollin wasn’t sure of her identity, and “lots of body guards,” she said.

“It was so exciting,” Scollin said. “He was the nicest man.”

In an email today, Holland said the Rockland County Grassroots Volunteers for Barack Obama has chartered two buses and will head off to the festivities at 2 a.m. Tuesday, and return late the same day.

“During the campaign, I had told the group that if Barack Obama wins we will be in Washington for the inauguration,” Holland wrote. “Well, true to my word, we are going to DC for the big day.”

The group doesn’t have tickets to the actually swearing in ceremony, but hopes to catch a glimpse of the new president during the parade up Pennsylvania Avenue, from the Capitol to the White House.

Holland said local elected officials had secured one-day inaugural Metro passes to allow visitors unlimited access to public transportation. Each will also be given a map of the D.C. area and the schedule of events.

Photo: Laurence Holland, of Spring Valley, and Kris Burns, of Nyack, who worked to get Obama Barack elected president, will be in Washington, D.C., Tuesday for the inauguration. Holland will join a group traveling by bus while Burns will meet up with everyone later. I grabbed this shot in Nyack in September.

• Legislator Ilan Schoenberger, D-Wesley Hills, is back as chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee, a post he’s held since 2005. 

• Legislative Majority Leader Michael Grant, D-Garnerville, continues to chair the Economic Development Committee.

• Legislator Robert Jackson, D-Nanuet, will chair the Planning & Public Works Committee.

• Legislator Connie Coker, D-South Nyack, will return as chair of the Environmental Committee.

• Legislator Alden Wolfe, D-Suffern, has been reappointed chair of the Government Operations Committee.

• Legislator Jay Hood, D-Haverstraw, will remain chair of the Public Safety Committee.

• Legislator William Darden, D-Hillcrest, who is the legislature’s vice chairman, will chair the Rules Committee. 

• Legislator Philip Soskin, D-Monsey, will return as chairman of the Multi Services Committee.

Photos: above, Schoenberger; right, Darden.

Read more, including short descriptions of what the committees focus on, below.

This news release was issued today by Chairwoman Cornell. It is posted verbatim.

Legislative Chair Cornell Announces 2009 Committee Chairs

New City, NY (January 13, 2009) – Rockland County Legislative Chairwoman Harriet Cornell has announced Legislative Committee Chairs for 2009.  “It is extremely important that this Legislature continue fiscal prudence and restraint in light of the state and national economic downturn.  We must do more with less, and that is the message I have conveyed to the committee chairs I have appointed for 2009,” said Chairwoman Cornell.

Legislator Ilan Schoenberger has been reappointed as Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee.  Schoenberger successfully led the committee since 2005.  Cornell said, “Legislator Schoenberger is an accomplished and well respected leader.  Under his skilled and incisive approach to the 2009 budget, deep cuts were made and positions eliminated.”

Legislative Majority Leader Michael Grant will continue to chair the Economic Development Committee. “Legislator Grant has been very productive in opening dialogue with the various quasi-public and private agencies in Rockland so we are kept current on issues of concern.  This is a key committee as we focus on policies and initiatives dealing with the stimulus, development and revitalization of Rockland County’s economy.”

Legislator Robert Jackson will for the first time become the chairman of the Planning & Public Works Committee, which has oversight of the County’s major capital projects, such as road, sewer and drainage improvements, building projects; transportation and municipal planning issues. Jackson said, “The maintenance of vital infrastructure is essential to the safety of our residents, and I will work to be certain that costs are carefully monitored.  I am grateful for this opportunity to chair this important committee.”

Legislator Connie Coker will return as chair of the Environmental Committee, which continues to be proactive in efforts to identify and protect Rockland’s resources. Chairwoman Cornell said, “Legislator Coker and her committee are very proactive in energy and natural resource conservation. This effort, a partnership of government and community will help to preserve our environment and the health and safety of our residents.”

Legislator Alden Wolfe has been reappointed chair of the Government Operations Committee, which reviews and analyzes government departmental functions to achieve maximum efficiency and productivity.  “Legislator Wolfe led his committee in reviews of government departmental functions,” said Cornell.  “This was most beneficial to us when it came time for 2009 budget review.  With all the cuts made, this committee will monitor results.”

Legislator Jay Hood will remain as chair of the Public Safety Committee, which reviews a range of safety related issues, such as homeland security, traffic safety, and fire and emergency services.  Vice Chairman of the Legislature William Darden will chair the Rules Committee and Legislator Philip Soskin will return as chairman of the Multi Services Committee with its important oversight of health and welfare.  Cornell stated, “Once again, their skilled leadership will assist this Legislature to address the critical issues that face the day-to-day operation of Rockland government as we seek to provide services needed by Rockland residents.”

Rockland County legislators Ed Day, R-New City, Frank Sparaco, R-Valley Cottage, and Joseph Meyers, D-Airmont, have sent a letter to federal officials to express their support of Israel’s efforts to “secure its borders and make its citizens safe from repeated rocket attacks launched by Hamas against innocent civilians.”

In a statement issued today, Sparaco said, “Hamas has initiated numerous acts of aggression against Israel, including crossing its borders to kidnap soldiers and commit other horrendous acts.”

Day said, “Rocklanders and all American citizens should see that this issue affects all of us as the Hamas mentality is no different than those who flew planes into the World Trade Center and killed nearly 3000 innocent people.”

Meyers said, “No independent country in the world would be expected to endure such aggression against its borders and its residents without taking steps necessary to end aggression from such acts of terrorism.

Photos: above, Sparaco; right, Day; left, Meyers.

Read the entire press release and a copy of the letter sent by the legislators below. Both are verbatim.

County Legislators Day, Sparaco and Meyers Take Bi-Partisan Action Urging National Leaders to Support Israel’s Right to Defend Itself against Hamas

New City (January 13, 2008) – Rockland County Legislators Ed Day, Frank Sparaco and Joseph Meyers have sent a bi-partisan letter to National leaders to express their “support of the State of Israel and Israel’s efforts In .” On December 27, 2008, Israel launched an air and ground offensive against Hamas, the de facto government of Gaza, in an effort to end years of attacks from the Gaza Strip by Hamas.

On Sunday, the three Legislators attended a rally organized by the Rockland Jewish Federation in support of Israel’s military action against the terrorist organization known as Hamas. The rally was held at the Rockland County Courthouse. Organizers called upon those present to begin a letter campaign to Federal representatives.

In their letter, addressed to President-elect Obama, Secretary of State Designate Hillary Clinton, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and U.S. Representative Eliot Engel, the Legislators expressed their support and commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and its right to act in self-defense to protect against itself against acts of terrorism.

Legislator Sparaco said, “Hamas has initiated numerous acts of aggression against Israel, including crossing its borders to kidnap soldiers and commit other horrendous acts. On Sunday, Rocklanders gathered to express unwavering support for Israel, our staunch ally and the only democracy in the Middle East.”

Legislator Day added, “It is important that all our citizens understand that, contrary to some reports in the media, it is Israel who is under siege and they are defending themselves from years of rocket attacks from the terrorist faction Hamas, who does not represent the moderate Palestinians in Gaza. Rocklanders and all American citizens should see that this issue affects all of us as the Hamas mentality is no different than those who flew planes into the World Trade Center and killed nearly 3000 innocent people.”

“Hamas has continually refused to recognize and accept previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians,” said Legislator Meyers. “Hamas has launched thousands of rockets and mortars since Israel dismantled settlements and withdrew from Gaza in 2005. No independent country in the world would be expected to endure such aggression against its borders and its residents without taking steps necessary to end aggression from such acts of terrorism.”

COPY OF LETTER

The Legislature of Rockland County

Edwin J. Day
Legislator – 5th Legislative District

Frank Sparaco
Legislator – 11th Legislative District

Joseph L. Meyers
Legislator – 12th Legislative District

January 11, 2009

President-Elect Barak Obama
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, D.C. 20500

Secretary of State Designate Hillary Clinton
476 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
H-232, US Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid
528 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510

U.S. Representative Eliot Engel
2161 Rayburn HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. President-Elect, Madame Secretary of State-Designate, Honorable Speaker Pelosi, Honorable Majority Leader Reid and Honorable Eliot Engel:

As County Legislators in Rockland County, New York and together with hundreds of other concerned Rocklanders, we attended a rally held at the Rockland County Courthouse on Sunday, January 11, 2009 in support of the State of Israel and Israel’s efforts to secure its borders and make its citizens safe from repeated rocket attacks launched by Hamas against innocent civilians inside of Israel.

As you know, Hamas has been designated by the United States Department of State as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and has refused to recognize Israel’s right to exist nor has Hamas agreed to renounce violence and accept previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians. Hamas has launched thousands of rockets and mortars since Israel dismantled settlements and withdrew from Gaza in 2005. No independent country in the world would be expected to endure such aggression against its borders and its residents without taking steps necessary to end aggression from such acts of terrorism.

We agree with the sentiments of Prime Minister of Israel Ehud Olmert who said on December 27, 2008, “For approximately seven years, hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens in the south have been suffering from missiles being fired at them. In such a situation we had no alternative but to respond. We do not rejoice in battle but neither will we be deterred from it. The operation in the Gaza Strip is designed, first and foremost, to bring about an improvement in the security reality for the residents of the south of the country.”

We are writing to express our vigorous support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and we support Israel’s right to act in self-defense to protect its citizens against acts of terrorism such as the repeated rocket attacks launched by Hamas.

We encourage you to work actively and early to support a durable, enforceable, and sustainable cease-fire in Gaza that prevents Hamas from retaining or rebuilding the capability to launch rockets and mortars against Israel and allows for the long term improvement of daily living conditions for the ordinary people of Gaza.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter of great moral and international concern and we wish you every success as you pursue your new duties in the next administration and the next Congress.

Very truly yours,

Edwin J. Day, Legislator

Frank Sparaco, Legislator

Joseph L. Meyers, Legislator

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