A Message from NYSYR Chairman Christopher Dziedzic

There is no need to sugar coat this. This was not a fun election cycle for our party, at either the national, the state or the local level. And while we cannot deny the help that Democrats straight down the ticket received because of the celebrity status of Barack Obama, do not let anyone fool you into thinking that was the entire reason for our lack of success in November.

No, instead we have to face the reality of rebuilding the Grand Old Party from the bottom up.

Just a couple of weeks ago, I was in Seneca Falls, meeting with a newly organizing Young Republican chapter in the Finger Lakes region. I was pleased to learn how the GOP county committee in Seneca County recently experienced some turn over, with new and energetic faces in charge. These new leaders are committed to rebuilding our party from the bottom up, and that includes the creation and support of a Young Republican chapter for their county.

Here in New York State, this means fighting our increasing enrollment disadvantage. This cannot be done by setting up mindless voter enrollment drives. There has to be a commitment to educate our fellow citizens as to what our party stands for and why those policies are best for New Yorkers.

Building Young Republican chapters in all 62 counties is an important part of that effort, as they can educate the younger portion of the electorate. I am proud that since early 2007, we’ve seen unprecedented growth in our organization with SEVEN newly credentialed county clubs. That is essential for the grassroots rebuilding that I am committed to in 2009.

Christopher Dziedzic is the Chair of the NYSYR. When it comes to getting around the state to meet with newly organizing or long established Young Republican chapter around the state, “have car, will travel.”

On the Road with the Chairman

Since our last issue, Chairman Chris Dziedzic has been busy in his travels around the state on behalf of the New York State Young Republicans. Is he ever glad to see gas prices falling below that peak of over $4.00 a gallon!

Stop #1: Saratoga Springs, NY
Chris drove up to Saratoga on Saturday, August 2nd for the Seventh Annual NYSYR Day at the Races. This has been one of our most successful fundraising events over the past view years, filling up the coffers in preparation for a busy fall campaigning schedule.

Stop #2: Queensbury, NY
Chris made the trip to Queensbury, New York on Sunday, August 16th to attend the Second Annual Warren County YR Family Fun Day. This is always a fun event with unlimited use of laser tag, bumper cars and go carts during the afternoon.

Stop #3: Catskill, NY
On Sunday, August 17th, Chris traveled down I-87 to Catskill, New York to meet with Eric Mortenson and Bryan Cranna, the chairs of Young Republican groups from Columbia County and Dutchess County respectively. The group in Columbia County is interested in forming into an official Young Republican chapter and getting more involved with our state organization.

Stop #4: Endicott, NY
On Thursday, August 21st , both Chris and NYSYR Parliamentarian Ed Lass attended the State Senator Tom Libous’ Annual Steak Roast at the En-joie Golf Course. This is the second year the NYSYR has sent attendees to this GOP fundraiser, one of the largest in Upstate New York.

Stop #5: Brooklyn, NY
The second YR targeted campaign weekend found Chris campaigning in Brooklyn for a slate of Republican candidates highlighted by fellow YR and State Assembly candidate Bob Capano. Young Republicans from Broome, Kings, Nassau, New York and Richmond Counties participated in this effort.

Stop #6: Utica, NY
The third YR targeted campaign weekend found Chris working neighborhoods in Oneida County for congressional candidate Richard Hanna on October 4th. Jack Karwacki, chair of the Oneida County YRs, did a great job in organizing this effort.

Stop #7: New York, NY
The fourth YR targeted campaign weekend found Chris in Manhattan helping a variety of YR candidates on October 18th: John Chromczak for State Senate and Saul Farber and Bill Buran for State Assembly.

Stop #8: Pittsford, NY
The fifth YR targeted campaign weekend found Chris working neighborhoods in Monroe County for Congressman Randy Kuhl on October 25th. Young Republicans from Broome, Monroe, Ontario and Steuben Counties participated.

Stop #9: Seneca Falls, NY
On November 25th, Chris and Executive Director Rick Cordaro travelled to meet with a new YR club being organized in Seneca County. One of the nice things about this group was that they have administration and financial support of their senior party.

Out in Right Field

by Julius Ponds

The Bear went down to Georgia, he was looking for some land to steal. He was in a bind 'cos nations paid him no mind: he was willin' to bring ‘em to heel.

It is a true shame that a young budding Democracy was assaulted as it was by a larger, authoritarian neighbor. My fear is that in the future, people will be less likely to throw off the shackles of oppression in Rose Revolutions, Orange Revolutions and Tulip Revolutions. We do not want those people to resign themselves to living in the darkness and in the shadow of Russian autocracy, but rather embrace the light of political freedom.

Saakashvili’s rosin up his bow and play his fiddle hard. 'Cos hells broke loose in Georgia and the Bear deals it hard.

In a previous edition of the GOPyr newsletter, I advocated a Girondist theory of foreign policy for the United States. I continue to advocate that we need to acknowledge the effect and impact of our great American experiment in human freedom on foreign peoples. We should neither turn our back on the world, nor coddle repressive regimes out of fear of appearing arrogant. In practical applications, we should have stood more firmly behind a country like Georgia – as a newer democracy – and as a staunch ally in the war on terror.

Wouldn’t it have been better for humanity if the story had ended like this?

The Bear bowed his head because he knew that he'd been beat. He laid that golden fiddle on the ground at Saakashvili’s feet.

I am not confident in the incoming foreign policy team of Obama, Biden and Clinton. I would hope they see the positive value America brings to the world, but fear they share the Left’s convictions that America is a corrupting and malevolent influence on the world stage.

YR Club Notes

Brooklyn YRs

Usually meet the second Wednesday of the month. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Brooklyn YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.BrooklynYR.com
BrooklynYR@gmail.com
(Jonathan Judge, President)
(718) 360-9583

Capital District YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Capital District YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.CapitalYR.org
pauljamison@optonline.net 
(Paul Jamison, President)

Dutchess County YRs

Usually meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 PM in the Poughkeepsie Grand, 40 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Dutchess County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.DutchessYR.com
angelaflesland@yahoo.com


Livingston County YRs

For more information about the club, e-mail Aaron Galvin at agalvin@frontiernet.net.

Monroe County YRs

Usually meet on the third Thursday of the month (except July & August), Spot Coffee, 200 East Avenue, Rochester. For the latest meeting and events information, 
please e-mail the Monroe County YRs.

Contact Information:
pkgullo@yahoo.com 
(Paul Gullo, Chairman)

Nassau County YRs

Usually meet the fourth Thursday at 8PM of the month at Mineola Knights of Columbus Hall, 186 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Nassau County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.NassauYRs.com
NassauYRs@gmail.com 
(Stephen Canzoneri, President)


New York YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the New York YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.NYYRC.com
info@nyyrc.com

Oneida County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please call the Oneida County YRs.
Contact Information:
(315)-725-2213
jack.karwacki@gmail.com
(Jack Karwacki, Chairman)

Onondaga County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Onondaga County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrepublicans.org
rick.cordaro@ocyrepublicans.org 
(Rick Cordaro, Chairman)

Ontario County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Ontario County YRs.

Contact Information:
OntarioYRs@gmail.com
(Ellis Oster, Chairman)

Orange County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Orange County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrs.com
www.myspace.com/ocnyyr
Lorena609@gmail.com
(Lorena Villegas, Corresponding Sec’y)

Oswego County YRs

For more information, please contact Terry Wilbur at tmwilbur1@hotmail.com or Scott McManus at scottmcm@twcny.rr.com.

Queens YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Queens YRs.

Contact Information:
www.qcyr.org
info@qcyr.org
(Rich Alicea, Chairman)
(718) 418-7873

Rockland County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Rockland County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.rcgop.org/Young_republicans.html
frankieps3@aol.com
(Frank Sparaco, Chairman)
(845) 323-9099

Saratoga County YRs

Meet usually at 7:30 PM at Saratoga GOP Headquarters, 77 Van Dam Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Saratoga County YRs.

Contact Information:
SaratogaCountyYoungRepublicans.org
mveitch201@hotmail.com
(Michael Veitch, Chairman)

Staten Island YRs

Usually meet the third Tuesday of every month at Canlon's Restaurant, 1825 N Railroad Avenue, Staten Island, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Staten Island YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.YoungRepublicans.info
info@youngrepublicans.info

Steuben County YRs

Usually meet last Thursday of Every month at 7 PM upstairs at Captain Morgan's at 36 Bridge St., Corning, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Steuben YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SteubenYR.com
SteubenYR.blogspot.com
phalliday@steubenyr.com
(Peter Halliday, Chairman)

Suffolk County YRs

Usually meet last Thursday of the month (except in July & August), Bobbique, 70 W. Main St. in Patchogue, NY, 7:00 PM, Networking/Social; 8:00 PM, Meeting. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Suffolk County YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SuffolkYoungRepublicans.com
chrscm@gmail.com 
(Chris Como, Chairman)

Warren County YRs

Usually meet on the 1st Friday of the month. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Warren County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.freewebs.com/wcyr
Warrencountyyrs@gmail.com
(Gabe Bedore, Chairman)

Washington County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Washington County YRs.

Contact Information:
myspace.com/washingtoncountyyrs
WCYRepublicans@gmail.com

Westchester County YRs

Contact Information:
www.WestchesterYRs.com
robdokwon@hotmail.com
(Rob Biagi, Chairman)

Moving Right

by William Palumbo, New York YRs

The Republican Party should shift significantly more conservative for two important and complementary reasons.

First is the matter of statecraft. The once great Democratic Party is intellectually bankrupt and has morphed into a party of false promises and handouts – more government jobs, economically unsustainable environmental and healthcare programs, and unrestrained immorality.

The American people are smart enough to sniff out this bunk; we know that government possesses no magical powers capable of solving life’s problems and alleviating personal guilt.

The Democratic candidate poses little threat to an articulate, conservative Republican.

Republicans lost this election partially because of a cycle, but more so because our rhetoric. Even when it was clearly articulated by a largely inarticulate John McCain, it rang hollow when matched with our past actions.

Over the last eight years, the size of government expanded rather than contracted. Yes, government expansion is a threat to our economy, but more gravely its threat is existential in nature. We must reverse course or our nation will assuredly suffer decline; perhaps not with this generation, but the lessons of history foretell inevitability. Republicans must start acting as statesmen and -women and less like Democrat-lites. This is of monumental importance.

Second, while bolstering the statecraft argument, social conservatism wins elections. To say nothing of her politics, consider Ayn Rand’s refusal to support the Libertarian Party because she believed political campaigns cannot educate the public. Aside from my belief that socially conservative values, arising from the organic family, form the bedrock of a society hostile to government encroachment, they are also electorally popular. There should continue to be sufficient wiggle room for local and state candidates, but the national Republican Party must remain the party for socially conservative voters, both because of their aggression towards government growth and for practical matters of winning.

Moreover, some Republicans have taken this loss as evidence that the country has shifted leftward. Exit polls suggest otherwise. What has happened is that Republicans have shifted leftward, leaving voters with an unfortunate choice between a gradual decline in freedoms, or a swift one, camouflaged in the vagaries of hope and change. Given the choice between Republican sorrow for a once-free nation ambling slowly down the road to socialism, and a promised socialist utopia, is it any surprise whom the voters chose?

Republicans need to find a charismatic, conservative leader, well-versed in the dangers of big government and learned in the institutions and values that underpin a free and democratic society. Perhaps in four years we will have this in Sarah Palin. If not, look elsewhere. No nation, not even a great one, can exist under the insatiable demands of a government that long ago burst free from its fundamental constraints.

This election was a wake up call. Yes, we lost. But let’s not lose our way.

William Palumbo is the Publications Chair of the New York Young Republican Club.

The Change We Need

by Mike Shannon, Capital District YRs

During this most recent election season we have heard both sides of the political spectrum talk about the need for change.

Barack Obama used the slogan, "Change we need". John McCain said he has been a maverick for more than 20 years and he is going to change Washington D.C.

The country is frustrated and angry with the politics and lack of action coming from our nation's capital. We all know the issues: the economy, the war, and so forth. What change are we looking for?

In 1992, Bill Clinton told us he was a new kind of Democrat and things would be different. By 1994, the nation did not like the direction the country was headed in and turned Congress over to the Republicans. In 1996, Clinton was re-elected but Congress was left to the Republicans, so apparently the people thought we were doing just fine. The economy was good and people were happy. This too would change as scandal after scandal caused anger and strife.

Along came George W. Bush in 2000, who was suppose to be able to reach across to the other side of the spectrum, be bipartisan and get things done. He told us he is a compassionate conservative and things would be different.

Now we have finished another election, George W. Bush cannot serve any longer due to the 22nd Amendment of the U.S Constitution.

The 22nd Amendment limits any individual from serving as President for more than two terms. This became necessary after President Franklin Roosevelt was elected to an unprecedented four terms in office. The United States and its allies had just finished fighting World War II. Our enemies included three of the most evil people in all of world history: Hitler, Mussolini, and Tojo. Of the three of them, two had been in power for more than 12 years. Franklin Roosevelt had also been in power for 12 years and would have been there a total of 16 had survived for the remainder of his last term in office.

With the fear of dictators fresh in their minds, the American people wanted to limit the Office of the President to just 8 years per person.

There are 37 states that currently have term limits on their Governors and some cities limit the number of terms for Mayors (New York City is one such example).

Why is this? There is a belief in America that in order for there to be progress and not an entrenchment of power restricted to just a few people, then we need to limit how long people can serve. This opens the seat to a new person who can make changes and bring fresh ideas. That sounds great: fresh ideas, a new tone. I think the American people would love a new tone coming out of Washington and Albany.

In my lifetime, there have been 7 presidents. Averaged out, that is a new President about every 5 years (yes I know terms are 4 years long but read on and learn). During the 36 years of my life, Vice President-elect Joe Biden has been a Senator for all of them. In the current 110th Congress, the average length of service for a member is 10 years or 5 terms. The longest serving member of the house is Representative John Dingell (D-MI), with 52 years. In the Senate, the average length of service is just over 12 years. The longest serving member is Senator Robert C. Byrd (D-WV) with 48 years. So what seems to be the common denominator in Washington? Change the President regularly but keep the Members of Congress.

Why do you think that is? It is quite simple; laws and Constitutional amendments start in Congress. If Americans truly want to change direction in this country then they need to start by changing who their leaders are. Change needs to happen in Congress as well. We need term limits to help force change and stop the consolidation of power. Truly, the current situation is not working.

Here is what I am proposing. Members of the House of Representatives should serve no longer than three terms, or 6 years. If during their third term they hold a leadership position like Speaker of the House, then they can run for one more term, limiting them to four terms, or 8 years. In the Senate members should be limited to 2 terms, or 12 years. Again like the lower house if during their final term they are holding a leadership position then they can run for 1 more term. This would limit them to 3 terms, or 18 years (that seems like a lot). One thing to remember is that in the Senate, one-third of Senators are up for election every 2 years so if more of those 33 seats were open races because of term limits then be might see the change we are looking for.

If we are serious about change then we need to take control of our government through constitutional change. The Constitution starts with "We the people", that means you and me. We control the government; the government doesn’t control us.

Mike Shannon is a member of the Capital District YRs.

Tusk Talk with Tusk Harper

Dear Tusk,

It's that time of year and I just don't feel merry or grateful for everything I have. Perhaps it's because of the election but I am sad that I'm not my usual hopeful self. How can I get out of this funk?

From: Scrooge in Schenectady

Dear Scrooge,

Fear not, kind sir (or madam)! We are a nation that endures and strengthens. As for your personal feelings, not every year will be a banner one. But it's that uniquely American spirit that will let you lace your boots up and rebound in 2009. You were placed on this earth - and in this country - to do great things. Instead of worrying that you're not meeting those goals, just go out and strive to make the world a better place.

Dear Tusk,

I have been a proud member of the Republican party for almost 15 years and I've never seen the party holding such a minority. What happened to our complete grip on power? What's next?

From: Humbled in Haverstraw

Dear Humbled:

Dwelling on the past won't get us anywhere. Let's focus on our core principles as a party and our message will spread - this country is used to a conservative government and the next two years will be a shock to the system. We have a great group of leaders who can lead us back to greatness. Governors Pawlenty, Jindal, Sanford, Palin and Crist are just the tip of the iceberg. Let's talk up our elected officials at the next holiday dinner table.

Questions? Write Tusk at tuskharper@yahoo.com.

A Message from NYSYR Chairman Chris Dziedzic

There have been lots of great things going on this summer with the New York State Young Republicans. The Saratoga County chapter hosted our SEVENTH Annual YR Day at the Races on Saturday, August 2nd. Our clubs in Onondaga and Oswego Counties coordinated a successful YR golf outing that took place on Saturday, July 19th.

Of course, we are also being contacted by numerous Assembly, Senatorial and Congressional campaigns about our involvement this fall.

Speaking of the fall campaign, many of our fellow Republicans were relishing the ongoing campaign of Hillary Clinton for the Democratic presidential nomination despite the mathematical hurdles she faced. They were hoping for chaos and division at the Democratic national convention reminiscent of 1980.

That year, Ted Kennedy correctly thought that Carter was weak and vulnerable. He challenged him in a protracted primary battle that lasted into a contentious convention in Madison Square Garden. Carter was weak, but it wasn’t another liberal Democrat that would deliver the coup de grace, but the Republican nominee, Ronald Reagan.

Why had Hillary stayed in the race so long? I attribute it to her enormous ego and unhealthy passion to be elected President. Despite all of the unpleasant facts around her, for that overwhelming ambition of hers, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die. Her comments at one point suggested she’s hanging around waiting for someone to assassinate her opponent.

We cannot allow this set of circumstances to make us complacent, however, with the prospect of Republican successes this year. Instead we need to work hard, as we have started this summer, to ensure victory this fall.

Christopher Dziedzic is the Chair of the NYSYR. Long after the signs come down… and the crowds stop cheering… and the bands stop playing… may it be said of him that he kept the faith of the NYSYR.

A Night of Laughter In Suffolk

by Chris Como, Suffolk YRs

The Suffolk County Young Republicans recently held their Comedy Night 2008 on April 29th at the Elk’s in Patchogue, Long Island.

The event was a huge success, raising significant money for the club as well as offering a great night of entertainment.

As a club, we are always looking for fresh ideas on how to raise money for the club and at the same time avoid the traditional chicken dinner fundraiser.

With a comedy night, we were able to attract not only our traditional Republican supporters, but also our family, friends, and co-workers who may not be extremely interested in politics.

What made the event even easier to assemble was the fact that one of our local committeemen is a professional comedian, who was able to book all the comedians for a very low fee. The five comedians performed one after another and seemed to get funnier as they went on. With the funds we raised at the events we will continue our outreach to recruit new members.

Judging by the fun that was had by the standing room only crowd and the money that was generated, we look forward to making this an annual event.

YRs at the Plate

Bob Capano

Lives In: Brooklyn, NY
Occupation: Civil Servant/Professor
Running For: State Assembly, 46th AD
Website: www.CapanoForAssembly.com

A life-long resident of Bay Ridge, Bob is the President of the 68th Precinct Youth Council, a former leader of the Bay Ridge Community Council, a member of the 68th Precinct Community Council and a former VP of the Bay Ridge Consumer Federation.

Bob attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and Xaverian High School. Bob is a former Brooklyn high school social studies teacher and currently an adjunct Professor of Political Science. Bob has a Master’s Degree in Urban Policy and Administration from Brooklyn College.

For nearly a decade, Bob has worked across party lines to fight for his community, first as a Senior Advisor to Democratic Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, then as Director of Brooklyn Operations for Republican Congressman Vito Fossella.

Bob has been at the forefront of Bay Ridge’s biggest battles, such as fighting to revitalize the Shore Parkway bike path, eliminating homeless encampments, and saving Fort Hamilton and the Brooklyn VA Hospital from closure. Bob will lead the charge for dramatic reforms in Albany, fight to reduce taxes on working families, enhance benefits for our seniors and veterans and expand access to healthcare in our community.

He will be running on the Republican, Conservative and Independence lines this fall.

Rob Biagi

Lives In: Westchester, NY
Occupation: Lawyer
Running For: State Assembly, 91st AD
Website: www.BiagiForAssembly.com

Rob Biagi was born in Mt. Kisco, New York in 1972, and raised in Shrub Oak, New York. He graduated from SUNY Oswego with a BA in Political Science in 1994, and Brooklyn Law School in 1997. Rob started working as an Assistant District Attorney with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted all manners of felony and misdemeanor crimes and spent the last year in the Narcotics Division.

In early 2001, he joined the law firm of Ohrenstein & Brown, LLP. After the firm’s office was destroyed in the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks, Rob continued to work at its Midtown office as an Associate. He left in 2005 and went to The Hartford Insurance Co., where he continues to work today as a Senior Staff Trial Counsel.

Rob now lives in New Rochelle just off Pelham Road. He co-founded the Greater Pelham Road Association, a community organization of local coop and condo board representatives organized to share common ideas and concerns among neighboring co-op apartment buildings. He also became a District Leader in the New Rochelle Republican City Committee and is also currently a member of its Issues Committee. In 2007, Rob was appointed by former City Councilman Mike Boyle to a term on the New Rochelle Traffic Advisory Committee.

He and his wife, Flora, were married in 2007.

John Chromczak

Lives In: New York, NY
Occupation: Medical Technologist
Running For: State Senate, 25th SD
Website: www.JohnC4Senate.com

John G. Chromczak was born in Utica, New York in 1970. Shortly after John was born, his father, Archie, died of melanoma, and his mother, Virginia, raised all five of her children while working full-time and putting herself through school.

In 1994, John began his studies at SUNY Potsdam, studying music performance and biology. Through his church, he became active in several volunteer organizations, including the American Red Cross.

After receiving his degree in 1998, John returned to Utica. He worked for several years as a medical technologist. He also served as a substitute teacher. In 2005, John moved to New York City. Since then, he has worked at New York University Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital Center as a licensed medical technologist, specializing in clinical laboratory testing for bleeding disorders and red cell disorders.

He is currently a member of SEIU 1199 and for several years was a member of the United Food and Commercial Worker’s Union Local 1 and the American Federation of Musicians Local 51. He is currently an active member of the New York YRs, the Brooklyn YRs and the Log Cabin Republicans.

John currently lives in lower Manhattan with his partner Andre and their dog Bono.

Saul Farber

Lives In: New York, NY
Occupation: Recent College Graduate
Running For: State Assembly, 75th AD
Website: www.SaulFarber.com

Saul was born in Miami Beach, Florida on December 20, 1985 and grew up surrounded by politics. He attended Greenfield Day School, a Jewish primary school and Miami Killian Senior Public High School. In the summer of 2003, he worked on the re-election campaign of a New York City Councilman, handling all of the campaign’s financial reporting.

Saul graduated high school with an A average and completed the most rigorous Advanced Placement curriculum the school offered.

He entered New York University in the fall of 2004, actively involved with the NYU College Republicans. Saul completed his undergraduate degree in 2008, with an A- average, from the College of Arts and Sciences, double-majoring in Politics and History.

Saul is an active supporter to Senator John McCain, in his current bid to become the next President of the United States and an active member of the New York Young Republican Club, Inc. He is currently running for New York State Assembly in the 75th District, which encompasses the West Side of Manhattan.

Saul is an avid Yankees fan, likes to fish and play baseball. He currently lives in Midtown West with his girlfriend, Amber, and his cat, Enid.

Bill Buran

Lives In: New York, NY
Occupation: Marketing
Running For: State Assembly, 72nd AD
Website: www.BillBuran.com

Born and raised in the Binghamton region of Upstate New York, Bill quickly learned that personal responsibility and self reliance are the principles that make this country great.

Bill attended Manhattan College in Riverdale section of the Bronx. There he studied Finance and Economics while volunteering his time as the Baseball Team Manager and working for the Sports Media Relations office.

Upon graduating college, Bill stayed in New York and built his career in Advertising and Marketing. After a few years living in Brooklyn, Bill moved to Inwood in 2005. During this time, Bill and his business partner Vidura Barrios created a new media company called Inner Splendor Media, which employs three people and utilizes many of the other small businesses in the Inwood/Washington Heights area.

Politics entered Bill’s life in August of 2007 during the Presidential primaries. Bill’s belief in limited government, free markets, low taxes, civil liberties and strong property rights lead him to Congressman Ron Paul’s campaign. Bill comes to the Republican Party from the traditional conservative wing such as President Taft, Reagan and Senator Goldwater.

Bill currently is a proud resident and business owner of Upper Manhattan.

95th Annual New York YR Club Alumni Dinner

by Jimmy Toussaint, Brooklyn YRs

In a roomy Manhattan penthouse, the New York YRs get together for their alumni dinner each year.

The atmosphere was full of refreshing conservative energy that is normally waterd down in the blue state of New York.

While looking over the city, people from different backgrounds and ages mingled before the dinner. From the self-made business man to the politically-active college student, everyone came together to support the NYYRC awardees and most importantly, they came to re-affirm commitment to the conservative movement.

This particular event featured prominent Republican speakers like Bill Kristol of the Weekly Standard and Fox News, Fran Townsend, former Presidential Assistant for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, and Rick Lazio, former New York Congressman and 2000 U.S. Senate candidate.

Other notable attendees at the dinner were Edward Cox, Chairman of John McCain's Presidential Campaign in New York, Republican State Senate candidate John Chromczak and Republican State Assembly candidate Saul Farber.

There is nothing like re-affirming Republican values with a nice glass of wine, a multi-course dinner and camraderie with fellow and distinguished Young Republicans.

During the dinner, New York YR President, Lynn Krogh, presented awards to Fran Townsend, Rick Lazio and NYYRC alumnus Charles Moerdler.

Krogh did an excellent job with this event and the club's officers really pulled together an exceptional evening experience. If they continue on this path to bringing New York Republicans together, we will be a stronger political force in New York City for it.

Jimmy Toussaint is the Chair of Fundraising & Events for the Brooklyn Young Republican Club, and a recent attendee at this year’s NYYRC 95th Alumni Dinner.

YRs Helping Congressional Candidate Bob Straniere

by Kara Donnelly, Staten Island YRs

Bob Straniere is a former New York State Assemblyman who represented Staten Island and Brooklyn for 24 years in the 60th District. He was also a past President the Staten Island Young Republicans. Chris Hellstrom, former VP of the Richmond County Republicans, is the Staten Island campaign manager. Bob is certainly a friend to the YR organization and could really use our help.

Bob is a proud husband, father and grandfather, successful business man, and a committed public servant. While Bob was in the New York State Assembly, he fought for lower taxes and less government.

Straniere has a common sense energy plan that combines federal relief at the pump now while investing in wind and solar technology so we can be energy independent in the future. Because of this, I believe Bob has the experience we need to reform Congress.

The 13th Congressional District includes all of Staten Island and the neighborhoods of Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst, Dyker Heights, and Gravesend in Brooklyn. For more than 27 years, this Congressional District has been represented by Republicans. Congressman Vito Fossella currently represents the 13th Congressional District but is retiring after more than a decade of public service.

This is the only Republican Congressional seat in the City of New York, and we have to fight to keep it Republican.

His campaign will be holding a massive outreach event, particularly with an eye towards getting more Young Republicans involved in his campaign. Anyone interested in helping Straniere’s campaign with event on August 23rd, starting at 11 AM, contact me at 718-494-8410 or karamdonnelly@hotmail.com. Lunch and dinner will be provided.

Disclosure: The NYSYR does not endorse in primary elections, and will publish information for any Republican candidate upon request.

Randy Kuhl’s Gearing Up For a Fight

By Peter Halliday, Steuben YRs

Looking at the number of Republicans that are in Congress from New York is a depressing act.

In a Republican-friendly upstate area, that should be different, but it isn’t. And even though Steuben County is an area where Republicans out-number Democrats, the congressional districts that neighbor us are slowly being lost.

Enter Randy Kuhl. Randy Kuhl is a local guy. He was a lawyer that represented us in Albany first as an Assemblyman and then in the Senate. One of the hallmarks of Randy Kuhl during his career has been constituent service. There’s no one who fights harder for the citizens whom they represent.

Here we are after a year and a half since Democrats reassumed control over Congress, you would think things should be easier. The other party has lower poll ratings than the President they so quickly criticize.

The opponent who ran against Kuhl in 2006 even came close. He’s a professional politician who can’t decide what party he belongs to. He used to be registered Republican, and then registered Democrat around the time he moved here. Most of his money is coming from outside of the district. The Democratic leadership seems committed just to knock off one of the last Republicans in the House in our area.

But Representative Kuhl isn’t going without a fight. He’s revamped his website, www.kuhlforcongress.com, and he is making a lot of changes that many of us Young Republicans had made. He’s using other sites like Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.

During his last race, there were dozens of people who came into our district from downstate to help him out. This was before the Democrat leadership really cared about the race. This could mean a standoff in our district for one of the last Republican seats this way.

Peter Halliday is the President of the Steuben County Young Republicans.

The More Things Change: The War Presidency Won't Necessarily End with Bush

by Tom Qualtere, Saratoga YRs

As the final six months of President Bush’s administration appear on the horizon, Americans must remember that the global war on terror has no realistic end in sight. Iran’s volatile past—both distant and recent—is intensely relevant to our military’s future. Voters would do well to start studying up on it.

Over the past several years it has been made very clear that an American victory in Iraq is directly tied to standing up to Iranian hostility throughout the region. As the 2007 troop surge continues to pave the way for an historic peace and stability in Iraq, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his regime in Iran continue to train and finance terror against coalition and Iraqi forces. Many have declared the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force’s support for the dying insurgency in Iraq a “proxy war” against the United States. However, the gruesome truth in the matter is that Iran has been waging war on our country for almost thirty years.

In November 1979, Iran’s new Shia Islamist government supported the now infamous attack and seizure of our embassy that led to 52 of our countrymen being held hostage for 444 days. In April 1983, 63 Americans were murdered when Iranian-sponsored terrorists bombed our embassy in Beirut, Lebanon. Six months later, U.S. Marine barracks located in Beirut were destroyed by Muslim extremists leaving 241 servicemen dead. Once again, the attackers were sponsored by the Islamic Republic of Iran. The attack on a U.S. Air Force housing complex in Saudi Arabia (the Kolbar Towers) in 1996 that killed 19 Americans is suspected to be the indirect work of the Iranian mullahs as well. In fact, without direct funding, arming and training from Iran, the terrorist organizations Hezbollah, Hamas and Islamic Jihad would see their strength and influence decrease dramatically. Our own attackers—Osama bin Laden’s al Qaeda network—would see their power (that which they’ve yet to lose to American forces) rapidly dwindle as well. Nevertheless, Iran’s greatest disturbance to world peace and the immediate safety of us and our allies is not its Taliban-like policies or alliances.

Unlike the old regimes of the Taliban in Afghanistan or Saddam Hussein in Iraq, the current government of Iran is developing vast nuclear technologies, and at a rate nobody in the world community thought possible. Considering the value of a democratic peace in Iraq for American security and interests, as well as the safety of our most vital Middle Eastern ally Israel—whose very existence has been taunted by Iran’s leadership, America must prepare itself to face down Iranian aggression by any means necessary.

The facts emanating from our current bases of military operation tell a much different story than the hard-spun political fantasies being churned by many here on the home front. It will be up to Americans to decide which narrative of our current conflicts we wish to follow, and which conclusion to the crises at hand we ought to ensure. It will be up to Republicans to bring accuracy and, yes, optimism to the debate. After all, the initial decision over how to deal with Iran will soon rest with the American electorate. Needless to say, with one candidate already planning for lunch with their tyrant-in-chief, our work is cut out for us.

Tom Qualtere is Chairman Emeritus of the Saratoga County YRs.

How to Solve The Gas Crisis

By Jack Karwacki, Oneida YRs

A two-phase process that provides a short term and long term solution needs to be implemented immediately. In the short term we begin to tap our domestic oil reserves, increase our refining capacity, and lift the burdensome tax and regulatory impediments that stifle the creativity and competition created through free enterprise. In the mean time, the private sector would be able to continue to invest in and develop alternative fuel and energy sources that can replace oil in the long term; or at the very least, provide consumers with the cost effective choices that are created in a competitive, free market environment.

I find it amazing that Mike Arcuri and the majority of Congress can’t understand a simple concept that a twenty-seven year old gets; then again, I’m not a Nancy Pelosi zombie either. Do yourselves and your wallets a favor and vote Hanna this fall.

Jack Karwacki is the Chairman of the Oneida County Young Republicans.

Club Notes

Brooklyn YRs

The Brooklyn YRs are making great use of this year’s election hype to show off more of our local candidates and discuss hot-topic issues. In May, the Brooklyn YRs heard from the Bay Ridge Rod & Gun Club’s Andrew Windsor and Michael Colihan, experts on Second Amendment legal and legislative issues. John Chromczak, candidate for the 25th State Senate district also spoke, discussing, among other matters, how the Republican Party is the only party who will stand up for the individual’s right to bear arms.

In June, the YRs heard from Alex Carabelli, Deputy Director of the Grassroots Initiative (http://www.gograssroots.org) about how everyday citizens can run for office and get on the ballot in New York City, especially if they have limited resources and a shoestring budget. Finally, the YRs had a discussion about various activities they can organize to support John McCain among younger voters, such as voter registration drives, rallies, and phone banking.

Usually meet the second Wednesday of the month. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Brooklyn YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.BrooklynYR.com
BrooklynYR@gmail.com
(Jonathan Judge, President)
(718) 360-9583

Capital District YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Capital District YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.CapitalYR.org
pauljamison@optonline.net
(Paul Jamison, President)

Dutchess County YRs

Usually meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 PM in the Poughkeepsie Grand, 40 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Dutchess County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.DutchessYR.com
angelaflesland@yahoo.com
(Angela Flesland, President)

Livingston County YRs

For more information about the club, e-mail Aaron Galvin at agalvin@frontiernet.net.

Monroe County YRs

Usually meet on the third Thursday of the month (except July & August), Spot Coffee, 200 East Avenue, Rochester. For the latest meeting and events information,
please e-mail the Monroe County YRs.

Contact Information:
pkgullo@yahoo.com
(Paul Gullo, Chairman)

Nassau County YRs

Usually meet the fourth Thursday at 8PM of the month at Mineola Knights of Columbus Hall, 186 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Nassau County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.NassauYRs.com
NassauYRs@gmail.com
(Stephen Canzoneri, President)

New York YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the New York YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.NYYRC.com
info@nyyrc.com

Oneida County YRs

As their core membership continues to expand, so has its ability to assist local candidates this election cycle. In addition to assisting Richard Hanna in his bid for the 24th Congressional seat, three members have taken up prominent positions within Kevin McDonald’s campaign for the 116th Assembly District. JP Kidwell has been named McDonald’s Campaign Manager, Lou Parrotta has been named Press Secretary and Jack Karwacki will be his Treasurer.
Anyone interested in helping with any of the aforementioned campaigns or are just interested in their group, contact Chairman Jack Karwacki at (315)-725-2213 or at jack.karwacki@gmail.com.

For the latest meeting and events information, please call the Oneida County YRs.

Contact Information:
(315)-725-2213
jack.karwacki@gmail.com
(Jack Karwacki, Chairman)

Onondaga County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Onondaga County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrepublicans.org
rick.cordaro@ieee.org
(Rick Cordaro, Chairman)

Ontario County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Ontario County YRs.

Contact Information:
OntarioYRs@gmail.com
(Ellis Oster, Chairman)

Orange County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Orange County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrs.com
www.myspace.com/ocnyyr
Lorena609@gmail.com
(Lorena Villegas, Corresponding Sec’y)

Oswego County YRs

For more information, please contact Terry Wilbur at tmwilbur1@hotmail.com or Scott McManus at scottmcm@twcny.rr.com.

Queens YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Queens YRs.

Contact Information:
www.qcyr.org
info@qcyr.org
(Rich Alicea, Chairman)
(718) 418-7873

Rockland County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Rockland County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.rcgop.org/Young_republicans.html
frankieps3@aol.com
(Frank Sparaco, Chairman)
(845) 323-9099

Saratoga County YRs

Meet usually at 7:30 PM at Saratoga GOP Headquarters, 77 Van Dam Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Saratoga County YRs.

Contact Information:
SaratogaCountyYoungRepublicans.org
mveitch201@hotmail.com
(Michael Veitch, Chairman)

Staten Island YRs

Usually meet the third Tuesday of every month at Canlon's Restaurant, 1825 N Railroad Avenue, Staten Island, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Staten Island YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.YoungRepublicans.info
info@youngrepublicans.info

Steuben County YRs

Usually meet last Thursday of Every month at 7 PM upstairs at Captain Morgan's at 36 Bridge St., Corning, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Steuben YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SteubenYR.com
SteubenYR.blogspot.com
phalliday@steubenyr.com
(Peter Halliday, Chairman)

Suffolk County YRs

Usually meet last Thursday of the month (except in July & August), Bobbique, 70 W. Main St. in Patchogue, NY, 7:00 PM, Networking/Social; 8:00 PM, Meeting. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Suffolk County YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SuffolkYoungRepublicans.com
chrscm@gmail.com
(Chris Como, Chairman)

Warren County YRs

The Warren County Young Republicans Family Fun Day 2008 at the Adventure Racing Family Fun Center located on 1079 Route 9, Lake George Road in Queensbury, N.Y. will take place on August 16th from 4:00pm - 7:00pm. Registration will be $20.00 per person. Registration can be received either by mail or at the door. Registration forms sent by mail must be postmarked by August 12th. The event includes unlimited use of the rock climbing wall, unlimited use of both the inside and outside go-karts, unlimited use of the bumper cars, and unlimited laser tag. We are also going to have a bouncy house for young kids. Food and refreshments will be provided.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call Chairman Gabe Bedore at (518) 798-1622.

Usually meet on the 1st Friday of the month. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Warren County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.freewebs.com/wcyr
Warrencountyyrs@gmail.com
(Gabe Bedore, Chairman)

Washington County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Washington County YRs.

Contact Information:
myspace.com/washingtoncountyyrs
WCYRepublicans@gmail.com

Westchester County YRs

Contact Information:
www.WestchesterYRs.com
robdokwon@hotmail.com
(Rob Biagi, Chairman)

Out in Right Field

Earlier this summer, I saw the newest installment in the Indiana Jones franchise, “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” and was thoroughly disappointed.

Take a moment and consider the character played by John Hurt. You may remember him as Caligula from the “I, Claudius” series. He plays Professor Harold Oxley, and his acting talent is wasted in most of the picture in incoherent babbling. Even worse, the other characters equate his insane ramblings as wisdom. This is worse than the dystopia envisioned by Kurt Vonnegut in his short story, “Harrison Bergeron.” At least in that story, the leftists needed hundreds of constitutional amendments and numerous technological handicaps to enforce their rabid egalitarianism. In the Indiana Jones movie, the other characters simply consent to that equalization.

At the end of the movie, there is a scene with Indiana Jones and Marion Ravenwood tie the knot at the altar. This is totally out of character with the Indy we’ve grown to know and love in the previous three movies. There is no explanation given for this alteration. Just as Democrats from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama are deluded into thinking terrorist sponsors like Syria and Iran will suddenly become cooperative and civilized with the appropriate amount of hand holding. We’re just as likely to see Kim Jong-Il cease claims that he aced five holes and finished thirty eight under par on the links.

This movie was a disappointment on multiple levels. It lacked the great stunt work of the previous chapters, and relied too heavily on computer generated imagery. The entire UFO plot line was threadbare and unconvincing. Worst of all, there were these none too subtle leftist underpinnings. My evening of escapism was stolen, instead, by an extended Mark Shields column.

The Humor About Hillary

A Hillary-ous Take on Everyone’s Favorite Democrat

by Jonathan J. Judge, Editor-in-Chief

Most politicians are the butts of many jokes, and the sources of many gaffes that, however scandal-scarred and despised one may be, immortalize their impact in that political era.

However, people in both parties have not been so in love with ridiculing a candidate as much as they are with Hillary Clinton.

This book, written by Robert Myers, successfully captures the humor behind the anti-Hillary movement of American society.

There’s a bit of anecdotal sentiments about the Senator from New York, such as a barber--also a registered Democrat--offering that he prefers John Kerry because “he only has two faces.”

Then there are the celebrity takes on Hillary, such as Joan Rivers, who quipped, “I think Hillary Clinton’s It Takes a Village refers to the number of people needed to do her makeup.”

Of course, no such book would be complete without countless slip-ups and self-deprecating one-liners from Her Aspiring Highness, like this one on her media strategy: “If I want to knock a story off the front page, I just change my hairstyle.”

All in all, it’s an entertaining read on the Democrat whom red and blue-state Americans love to loathe.

Amazon.com, $9.95, by Outskirks Press

Tusk Talk with Tusk Harper

Dear Tusk,

I consider myself to be a very fair, loyal employee. While most people see me and immediately think of my former employer, I’ve been completely shocked by the complete cold shoulder that some of my old coworkers have shown me since I came public with some constructive criticism of the company’s practices and personalities. Is there something I’m missing?

From: Hopeless on Houston St.

Dear Hopeless,

It seems to me like you may have bitten off more than you can chew. Unless you are disclosing illegal or unethical behavior, nobody likes a snitch. Even fewer people respect former employees who stand up to criticize after-the-fact, particularly with a holier-than-thou attitude. My instinct tells me that you may not have been such a great steward for your former company after all, and then you have nobody to blame but yourself.

Dear Tusk,

My girlfriend and I have been together for the past three years. I have been thinking about marrying her until we last week when we had a discussion about whether or not she would have an abortion. She said that if a pregnancy was not planned she would consider it and that goes against my values. Can she still be the one?

From: Pro-Life in Poughkeepsie

Dear Pro-Life,

I applaud your strong sense of values and can understand your concerns. However, why did it take three years to first have this conversation? By that point you should have known her deepest feelings and this topic would not have been so surprising to you. Your worry has merit except for one fact – you’ve been together for so long that, if things were to progress, within two years this won’t be an issue. I would look deep inside and ask yourself whether her stance on abortion is truly the area of anxiety or whether there is something greater. If you both agreed on the life issue, would she have a ring on her finger? If the answer is yes, then start saving your money. If the answer is no, then you should sort out your relationship priorities and determine whether she truly is the one for you. Be careful of making this issue the scapegoat, though.

Questions? Write Tusk at tuskharper@yahoo.com.

A Message from NYSYR Chairman Christopher Dziedzic

I initially intended to talk about our recent Leadership Conference in Albany featuring a fundraising class.

I would be remiss, however, if I did not take a few minutes and talk about Client #9 and the impact the recent scandal will have on New York State and the GOP.

On one level, this will be good for New York State. The removal of the antagonistic Spitzer should mean that the Second Floor will spend more time governing the state and less time trying to smear Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno with various allegations. That is good news for all New Yorkers.

On another level, this will also be good for the Republican Party. The Democrats, especially those in the Senate, have lost their primary fundraising cash cow. The Democratic Party will be in chaos for some time as the various leaders in the party jockey for positions. Silver, Cuomo and Paterson will each envision himself as the leaders of their party over the next couple of years.

The voters of New York have now seen two out of the four statewide elected officials from 2006 resign under the cloud of disgraceful and criminal scandal. That is not a good average. The Republican Party must effectively present a different model of responsible and proud governance.

We have an opportunity here, and we cannot let it pass. This fall, with the Democrats discredited and demoralized, we must work to strengthen our majority in the Senate and enlarge our numbers in the Assembly.

Christopher Dziedzic is the Chair of the NYSYR. He will not be taking questions. Thank you very much. He will report back to you in short order. Thank you very much.

Governor Spitzer Resigns

On March 12th, Christopher Dziedzic, Chairman of the New York State Young Republicans, released the following statement:

“Today is bittersweet. We have just learned that Governor Spitzer will step aside effective Monday, March 17th. These past few days have certainly been the darkest in New York’s long history.

“I do want to thank the Governor for sparing us any more of the torture that we have already endured.

“An impeachment procedure would have derailed our elected officials even more, causing an even later budget -- it is best that the Empire State moves on and away from another Albany scandal, for the good of its constituents. I paraphrase President Ford when I say that our long nightmare is over.

“This nightmare began on Day One when Governor Spitzer stated that everything was going to change, and it certainly did. A plan for drivers licenses for illegal aliens, improperly using state employees to discredit the Senate Majority Leader, the new ‘crack tax’ initiative, and many other conflicts are all apart of this 14 month-long embarrassment known as the Spitzer Administration.

“I, again, wish to state that all of our prayers are with Mrs. Spitzer and her three daughters as they, too, try to move forward, out of the public’s eye.

“We must look ahead to the new administration, pass a smaller state budget, on time, and get back to working on the real issues affecting the Citizens of New York State.”

The NYSYR conducted an online petition drive among New York’s Young Republicans to tell the Governor to resign. Within the first 48 hours, about 700 signatures were gathered statewide.

On the Road with the Chairman

Stop #1: White Plains, NY
On Wednesday, February 6th, Chris traveled to White Plains, New York to drop in on the Westchester Young Republicans monthly meeting. Under new chair Rob Biagi, the Westchester YRs are looking to rebuild their chapter into one of the long established bedrocks of the state. The monthly meeting was held at Westchester GOP headquarters on Mamaroneck Avenue at 8:00 PM. Joseph Acocella, Harrison Town Clerk, was the guest speaker.

Stop #2: Oswego, NY
On the weekend of February 8th and 9th, Chris was up in Oswego, New York along with many other YRs for a targeted campaign effort – this one in Senate District 48, to help Will Barclay in that well publicized special election. YRs from Albany, Broome, New York, Onondaga, Oswego, Saratoga and Washington Counties traveled out to pitch in. You can see some photos of the effort on http://www.newzjunky.com/news/0210barclay3.htm

Stop #3: Albany, NY
Chris traveled out to Albany on the weekend of February 29th to March 2nd. That weekend was the NYSYR Leadership Conference and Spring Board Meeting at the Hilton Garden Inn. The focus was on a fundraising school put together by the Leadership Institute. The annual Teddy Roosevelt Dinner was highlighted by Wheeler Milmoe Award winner Assemblyman Lou Tobacco. On Sunday, the board meeting had three congressional candidates, Lee Zeldin (CD 1), Sandy Treadwell (CD 20), and Mike Rocque (CD 20), address the assembled YRs.

Out in Right Field

by Julius Ponds

Back on March 1, 2008, the Colombian military crossed over the border into Ecuador to take out an encampment of FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) terrorists. That action caused a short-term diplomatic crisis and Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez used the action to engage in some saber-rattling and anti-American propaganda.

First, the United States should support a fellow democratic nation that has implemented the Bush Doctrine. Colombia also has the right to treat nations that harbor or give aid to terrorist groups as they would the terrorists themselves, just as we have done with the Taliban in Afghanistan. Colombia also made the wise decision to pursue its interests in a unilateral, military strike. It did not waste time spinning wheels in the Organization of American States (OAS) or Rio Group meetings while terrorists were receiving sanctuary just across the Colombian frontier.

Secondly, in a South American climate that sees the leftist tyrant Hugo Chavez constantly raising his profile and building connections throughout the hemisphere, it is all the more important to cement our support and friendships with those nations, like Colombia, who seek it.

The United States should stand behind Colombia whole-heartedly. That means giving it the diplomatic support in its drive to suppress terrorists groups and to stand up to regional delinquents like Hugo Chavez. It also means approving the free trade agreement with Colombia. As we have learned the hard way over the past eight years, in times of trouble, the true friends of the United States are few and far between. We must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with a true friend like Colombia.

NYSYR Leadership Conference

As history teaches us, a groundswell of popular support or opposition can make the difference on any political issue. The grassroots are the key to affecting change at the local level.

The events of the New York State Young Republicans Spring Board Meeting & Leadership Conference sought to improve the grassroots-organizing skills of New York State’s Young Republicans and recognize those Republicans who have made a difference in the past year.

The Arlington, V.A.-based Leadership Institute joined us for the weekend, bringing some well-seasoned grassroots and fundraising experts to share their knowledge with us.

Nancy Bocskor kicked off the school with her thorough seminar on effective fundraising techniques and strategies.

Ms. Bocskor is a nationally recognized educator, speaker and author, named a “Rising Star in Politics” by Campaigns and Elections magazine, and profiled in the Wall Street Journal as one of the “top PAC-party organizers,” has now been tagged an international Democracy Coach by Die Welt. Having worked on numerous campaigns helping candidates achieve their financial goals, she works to inspire citizen activists to take the proven path to positive politics: Passion Driven Leadership.

She emphasized the need to understand your constituency, particularly what attracts wealthy donors, medium-dollar donors, and low-dollar donors.

Organizing a Finance Committee whose members are skilled at salesmanship is ideal, plus they should know how to work their contacts effectively for the candidate.

The Leadership Institute’s Chris Malagisi and Jennifer Hoff also presented strategies on how to organize campaigns and utilize new media, such as blogs and YouTube, to succeed in 21st century politics.

Both brought their own extensive political experience into their presentations.

Malagisi, the grassroots coordinator for the Leadership Institute, most recently served as the National Youth Director for Fred Thompson’s Presidential Campaign.

Hoff currently serves as the public affairs liaison for the Michigan Townships Association where she develops and maintains a strong public image for township government in Michigan. Previously, she served as a regional communications manager for the Michigan State Legislature’s House Republican Communications Services.

Teddy Roosevelt Dinner

The New York State Young Republicans completed their productive day at the Grassroots School with their annual Teddy Roosevelt Dinner in Jack’s Oyster Bar & Steak House on Albany’s State Street.

Among the guests that evening included candidate for the U.S. Senate seat in Delaware, Christine O’Donnell, who spoke about staying true to conservative values in her race against incumbent Democratic Senator Joe Biden.

Besides juicy steak, open bar, and conversation with YRs from around the state, one of the main highlights of the evening was the annual awards ceremony.

The first award is for Club of the Year, which was awarded to the Steuben County YRs.

The second award is for New York State Young Republican of the Year, which was awarded to Secretary of the Brooklyn Young Republican Club and Editor-in-Chief of the GOPyr, Jonathan Judge. Judge thanked all the YR clubs from around the state, saying that it was due to their ingenuity and activism that we are able to brag so proudly about the many accomplishments of New York’s Young Republicans in our newsletter.

The final and most distinguished award is for New York State Assemblyman of the Year, which was awarded to Assemblyman Lou Tobacco of the 62nd A.D. in Staten Island. Assemblyman Tobacco was particularly grateful for this award and spoke about the common sense ideals he and his Republican colleagues have been trying to push in the State Assembly.

The night was complete with after-dinner socializing at a couple of the local pubs in the area, reveling in what turned out to be a wonderful evening for the State YRs.

Steuben YRs: Club of the Year

by Peter Halliday, Steuben YRs

The Steuben County Young Republican Club has been recognized as the Club of the Year by the New York State Young Republicans this past March.

“Steuben County is leading the way for small counties in terms of campaign involvement and positive impact for local Republicans,” said NYSYR Chairman Chris Dziedzic.

“Through blogs, podcasting, and videos, President Peter Halliday and his team are also using the Internet to multiply their impact. That is impressive, particularly in a rural county.”

Dziedzic also cited the successful state board meeting that was held in Riverside last September as well as the increase in membership and activity for the club during 2007.

“We were able to put 30 Young Republicans on the ground working to elect one of our own members, Tom Reed, as an upset winner for Mayor of Corning,” commented Halliday when asked what the most exciting accomplishment of the year was. “To win what many people consider the most prestigious award the state gives out is something that really caps off a great 2007 for our group.”

Halliday credited the leadership and members of the club for the award. “We have a great group, but there is always room for more young professionals who want to get involved in local and county politics.”

In the last two years, the group has kept growing. The vast majority of the people that are members are new to the world of local politics. Halliday looks forward to focusing on creating a legacy of an active Young Republican club in the county for many decades to come.

The advice that Halliday gives other small clubs is that any club can accomplish what the Steuben YRs have.

“We have a very rural county that is spread out, and it is one of the largest in the state. We have people willing to cross the county and drive 45 minutes each month to attend meetings. We credit that with keeping our meetings interesting. We try to focus on action; giving people something they can do afterwards. We try to cast a vision that’s bigger than the group. If it can be accomplished by the group alone, then the vision isn’t big enough for us.

“Most of it is just working really hard, staying focused, and never giving up.”

NYSYR Spring Board Meeting

The State YRs had a full agenda at its board meeting on Sunday, March 2nd.

The Livingston County Young Republicans, represented by Cricket-Ellen Knight and Aaron Galvin presented their application to join the Association of New York State Young Republican Clubs, Inc., as did Terry Wilbur and Scott McManus from the Oswego County YRs.

However, it was clear that they did not have to do much convincing, as they were both unanimously welcomed into the New York State Young Republican family.

In addition, we had quite a few distinguished guests address us. Christopher Nixon Cox, Executive Director of Senator John McCain’s Presidential Campaign in New York State, talked about his job to make sure that McCain wins New York in November. Additionally, Luke Mroz spoke briefly about Ron Paul’s campaign for the Republican nomination.

Chris Callaghan, former candidate for New York State Comptroller, also stopped by to offer his famous humorous commentary on the state of politics in Albany.

Candidates for the 20th Congressional District Sandy Treadwell and Mike Rocque spoke about their respective campaigns and what they will bring to the table if nominated to challenge first-term incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand.

Lee Zeldin, running for Congress in the 1st Congressional District against incumbent Democrat Tim Bishop, argues that Long Island needs a “bulldog” to fight for a more affordable Long Island, to improve national defense and secure our borders while taking better care of our veterans, and doing more for our senior citizens.

Finally, the Staten Island Young Republican Club presented an impressive proposal to host the NYSYR’s Summer Board meeting in June. More details on the summer board meeting will be forthcoming.

YR Club Notes

Brooklyn YRs

The Brooklyn YRs hosted Christopher Nixon Cox, grandson of President Richard Nixon and Senator John McCain’s Executive Director for his campaign in New York at their March meeting. Heavily attended, Brooklyn learned that it would be host to a satellite McCain campaign office and New York City will be targeted by McCain’s campaign to deliver a win for the Senator this November.

At its April meeting, the club unanimously elected a new slate of officers for the 2008-2009 year: Jonathan Judge, President; Samuel Rivera, Vice President; Christina Bennett, Secretary; and Alex Buchholz, Treasurer. Past-President Bob Capano was elevated to Chairman of the club’s Board of Directors.

Usually meet the second Wednesday of the month at 7:00 PM. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Brooklyn YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.BrooklynYR.com
BrooklynYR@gmail.com
(Jonathan Judge, President)
(718) 360-9583

Capital District YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Capital District YR’s website.

Contact Information:

www.CapitalYR.org

Dutchess County YRs

Usually meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 PM in the Poughkeepsie Grand, 40 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Dutchess County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.DutchessYR.com
angelaflesland@yahoo.com
(Angela Flesland, President)

Livingston County YRs

The Livingston County YRs, whose application was presented by Vice President Cricket-Ellen Knight and President Aaron Galvin (pictured to the left), were formally credentialed at the Spring 2008 Board Meeting in Albany. Congratulations and welcome to the NYSYR family!

For more information about the club, e-mail Aaron Galvin at agalvin@frontiernet.net.

Monroe County YRs

Usually meet on the third Thursday of the month (except July & August), Spot Coffee, 200 East Avenue, Rochester. For the latest meeting and events information,
please e-mail the Monroe County YRs.

Contact Information:
pkgullo@yahoo.com
(Paul Gullo, Chairman)

Nassau County YRs
Usually meet the fourth Thursday at 8PM of the month at Mineola Knights of Columbus Hall, 186 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Nassau County YR’s website or e-mail them.

Contact Information:
www.NassauYRs.com
NassauYRs@gmail.com
(Andrew Stream, President)

New York YRs

The New York YRs are holding their Annual Alumni Dinner on June 25, 2008. Tickets are on sale at www.nyyrc.com.

For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the New York YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.NYYRC.com
info@nyyrc.com

Oneida County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please call the Oneida County YRs.

Contact Information:
(315) 542-1974 (JP Kidwell)

Onondaga County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Onondaga County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrepublicans.org
rick.cordaro@ieee.org
(Rick Cordaro, Chairman)

Ontario County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Ontario County YRs.

Contact Information:
OntarioYRs@gmail.com
(Ellis Oster, Chairman)

Orange County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Orange County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.ocyrs.com
www.myspace.com/ocnyyr
Lorena609@gmail.com
(Lorena Villegas, Corresponding Sec’y)

Oswego County YRs

The Oswego County YRs, whose application was presented by Terry Wilbur (l) and Scott McManus (r) (pictured to the left), were formally credentialed at the Spring 2008 Board Meeting in Albany. Congratulations and welcome to the NYSYR family! For more information, please contact Terry Wilbur at tmwilbur1@hotmail.com or Scott McManus at scottmcm@twcny.rr.com.

Queens YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Queens YRs.

Contact Information:
www.qcyr.org
info@qcyr.org
(Rich Alicea, Chairman)
(718) 418-7873

Rockland County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Rockland County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.rcgop.org/Young_republicans.html
frankieps3@aol.com
(Frank Sparaco, Chairman)
(845) 323-9099

Saratoga County YRs

Meet usually at 7:30 PM at Saratoga GOP Headquarters, 77 Van Dam Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Saratoga County YRs.

Contact Information:
SaratogaCountyYoungRepublicans.org
mveitch201@hotmail.com
(Michael Veitch, Chairman)

Staten Island YRs

The Staten Island YRs were unanimously chosen to host the NYSYR’s Summer Board meeting. More information will be available shortly.

Usually meet the third Tuesday of every month at Canlon's Restaurant, 1825 N Railroad Avenue, Staten Island, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Staten Island YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.YoungRepublicans.info
info@youngrepublicans.info

Steuben County YRs

The Steuben County YRs were named the YR Club of the Year at the NYSYR’s annual Teddy Roosevelt Dinner. Congrats!

Usually meet last Thursday of Every month at 7 PM upstairs at Captain Morgan's at 36 Bridge St., Corning, NY. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Steuben YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SteubenYR.com
SteubenYR.blogspot.com
phalliday@steubenyr.com
(Peter Halliday, Chairman)

Suffolk County YRs

Usually meet last Thursday of the month (except in July & August), Bobbique, 70 W. Main St. in Patchogue, NY, 7:00 PM, Networking/Social; 8:00 PM, Meeting. For the latest meeting and events information, please visit the Suffolk County YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.SuffolkYoungRepublicans.com
chrscm@gmail.com
(Chris Como, Chairman)

Warren County YRs

Usually meet on the 1st Friday of the month. For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Warren County YRs.

Contact Information:
www.freewebs.com/wcyr
Warrencountyyrs@gmail.com
(Gabe Bedore, Chairman)

Washington County YRs

For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail the Washington County YRs.

Contact Information:
myspace.com/washingtoncountyyrs
WCYRepublicans@gmail.com

Westchester County YRs

Contact Information:
www.WestchesterYRs.com
robdokwon@hotmail.com
(Rob Biagi, Chairman)

Profile: Christine O'Donnell for U.S. Senate in Delaware

Christine O’Donnell joined the New York State Young Republicans at our annual Teddy Roosevelt Dinner as our special guest speaker.

She’s running for the Republican nomination in Delaware to challenge incumbent Democratic United States Senator, Joseph Biden.

She first ran in 2006 for United States Senate against Senator Tom Carper as a write-in candidate, gaining almost 12,000 write-in votes, or 5% of the total votes cast, according to the Delaware Department of Elections.

Christine is no stranger to the world of government and politics. Most recently, she appears frequently as a commentator on Fox News, CNN, C-SPAN, FNC’s O’Reilly Factor, Hannity & Colmes, MSNBC’s Hardball with Chris Matthews, and others.

In her twenty year career, Christine has served as a social advocate in Washington, D.C., participating in regular White House and Capitol Hill strategy meetings, and leading delegations to the United Nations to lobby on behalf of pro-family global policies. She’s successfully debated Cabinet members, Congressmen and international leaders.

In the early 1990’s, Christine worked at the Republican National Committee developing the marketing strategy that then-Chairman Haley Barbour directly credited as having a key role in the historic ’94 Republican Congressional sweep.

Christine also serves as a marketing and media consultant to various clients such as Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ, Natalia Tsarkova, the Vatican’s first female portrait painter, and non-profit organizations such as the World Education and Development Fund, a charity that provides scholarships to children in poor communities throughout Latin America.

She strongly believes that the Republican Party’s ability to win victories depends on strong advocacy of its core values, because the party has won in the past precisely because it has stood as the party of principle. As such, she has made four pledges to the people of Delaware as their United States Senate candidate. She will (1) never vote to increase taxes, (2) limit herself to two terms in office, (3) never vote for “pork barrel spending” or corrupt “favors”, and (4) will always vote in favor of life and in support of families. On this platform, Christine expects a good fight for the Senate seat, but one which will resonate with the voters of Delaware and will lead to Republican victory in the Fall.

(Photo: Christine O’Donnell, candidate for United States Senate in Delaware against incumbent Democratic Senator Joseph Biden, with NYSYR Chairman Chris Dziedzic)

Tusk Talk with Tusk Harper

Dear Tusk,

I need help. Just a few months ago it felt like everyone loved me, and yet I've become the butt of jokes. It might be related to my tendency to go on power trips, or perhaps my gigantic ego, but I think it has something to do with my tendency to pay for intimate evenings with women other than my wife. What should I do?

From: Easy on the East Side

Dear Easy,

You seem to be in a bit of a pickle, but in all honesty I think it's of your own creation. It doesn't feel so good to be publicly steam-rolled, huh? You need to face facts: you will drop out of the spotlight in shame and your career (and life) has been altered. Plot comebacks all you want, but the people of New York state have been paying for a lot more than a fun night since you took office.

Dear Tusk,

My roommate is a horrible snorer. I can barely get two hours' sleep some nights. Short of physical violence, which is quickly becoming an attractive option, what can I do to get some badly needed REM shut eye?

Sleepless in Sleepy Hollow

Dear Sleepless,

It's fascinating how the people who snore the loudest also happen to be the ones who fall asleep the quickest. I have had many situations where I have been tempted to take my pillow and smother the snorer next to me, but that would be uncivilized. (Besides, Tusk Talk does not condone homicide.) My recommendation would be one of two things: either find a new roommate or encourage him to buy those adhesive things to stick on his nose to limit the snoring. If all else fails, perhaps you should invest in some sleep medication for yourself. (But Tusk Talk also does not condone sleeping medication addiction.) Go count some sheep!

Questions? Write Tusk at tuskharper@yahoo.com.

A Message from NYSYR Chairman Christopher Dziedzic

Battle stations, everyone! The first scene in the long contest with the Democrats in 2008 has been chosen.

It was the 48th Senatorial District in Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties.

Our candidate in that special election on February 26th was a strong one. Will Barclay is a long time friend of the Young Republicans and has a solid Republican voting record in the Assembly.

Last year, our state organization awarded Assemblyman Will Barclay the 2007 Wheeler Milmoe Award at our annual Teddy Roosevelt Dinner, naming him the Young Republican choice as Assemblyman of the Year.

It is because we are so excited about this campaign that we organized a targeted campaign weekend in Oswego, New York on Saturday, February 9th and 10th. We continue to find ways to put our resources behind this effort, and we have planned to spend NYSYR funds to feed and put up at local motels those Young Republicans who make the trip from around the state.

Regardless of what shadows are seen by any groundhog, I see many of my fellow YRs pitching in to help Will Barclay if he chooses to run again in November. In any case, whoever the Republican is, the NYSYR will work to bring eventual victory for the GOP so we can maintain a Republican majority in the State Senate and a two-party system in New York State. It’s a vision of success.

Christopher Dziedzic is the Chair of the NYSYR. Send wedding, birthday party and bar mitzvah invitations to chairman@nysyr.us.

The Case on Congestion Pricing

by Jonathan Judge, Brooklyn YRs

Former President Ronald Reagan once said, “Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: if it moves, tax it; if it keeps moving, regulate it; and if it stops moving, subsidize it.”

Congestion ‘pricing’ (or, more appropriately, a congestion ‘tax’), is a mechanism of imposing a per-use government surcharge for moving in a private vehicle on ordinary local public streets within a certain area.

And it may be coming to a city or town near you in the future if the State Legislature approves it for NYC on March 31st.

Why, you might ask, would our representatives vote for this. The goals articulated are many, but mainly as a government disincentive to modify your daily behavior to the way government thinks best. Some argue it is meant to reduce traffic congestion by pricing people out of their cars and on mass transit. Others argue it is the only way to reduce pollution by fining people for using private vehicles. And then many more honestly admit that it is just another means to raise revenue, particularly for already tax-payer funded transportation. Meanwhile, the revenue would not go to improve roads, but would be redistributed to mass transit improvements almost exclusively.

While congestion pricing does not exist in the United States yet, there have been certain areas with variable highway tolls, which is somewhat similar, though there is always a free alternative. Congestion pricing, however, by definition, eliminates any free alternate routes--it’s government’s way or no way.

New York City: The Test Subject

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg (Unaffiliated), prompted by a Federal grant opportunity, has introduced a congestion pricing plan. The NYC Traffic Congestion Mitigation Commission, created by the State last year, has recommended a plan to charge all incoming drivers south of Manhattan’s 60th Street $8 a day (or $2,000 a year) between 6 AM and 6 PM on weekdays. Trucks would be charged $21 a day, or about $5,000 a year. It must be adopted by the New York City Council and the State Legislature before anyone can be charged. Furthermore, it could stand as precedent for other cities and towns in the state to begin implementing similar taxes.

New York State Highest Taxed State

The facts are out: New York State is one of the top three states with the highest tax burden in the country, according to the Tax Foundation.

But the experts don’t need to tell us that it’s expensive to live in New York, never mind to raise a family. We know it firsthand.

Pundits are already trying to figure out about how much our congressional representation might be reduced after the 2010 Census because New York is not growing at the same rates as other states.

We as Republicans have seen the error of the ways of this State and, consequently, hold dear the following two principles, which are found in our State Creed:

“I believe that while government can and should be the provider of some essential services, it should function with limited taxation, financial efficiency and the adoption of innovations to allow taxpayers to get the most for their hard-earned tax dollars”; and

“I believe that our natural environment is a precious resource for all humankind, and that citizens and government should work together to implement common-sense policies that allow for both environmental protection and economic growth.”

Our Republican principles acknowledge this, and the facts surrounding us compel us to do something about it.

For instance, in recognition that making travel more expensive hurts economic growth upstate, many Republican State Legislators are aiming to fight the toll hikes on the New York State Thruway, and some local elected officials are even recommending the abolition of the tolls altogether.

The impact of a $2,000 a year tax to commute into Manhattan by car would be certainly devastating for the breadbasket of the Empire State, and the evidence shows that it would do little to advance any of the goals that it is designed to produce, except to make government more money.

Does New York City Need a Congestion Tax?

On the charge that congestion is bad now and will be getting hopelessly worse, here are the facts. The number of private vehicles in Manhattan has gone down by 20,000 over the past 20 years. Census data shows that more people each year leave their cars at home to take mass transit instead, which infuses more revenue into mass transit by the very fact of its increased demand.

Those neighborhoods where a relatively large number of people drive to Manhattan (a) have mass transit options at or exceeding capacity that cannot improve service without multi-billion dollar new subway lines, (b) are areas without any sort of local access to Manhattan-bound mass transit, (c) are located where driving is faster than any available mass transit alternatives, or (d) mass transit does not fit into the demands of the individual’s or family’s daily routine. Not surprisingly, then, the MTA, which supports congestion pricing as it would be the primary recipient of revenues collected, does not anticipate that more than 1% of these drivers will switch to mass transit.

On the charge that pollution from cars will only get worse, here are the facts.
The City of New York released last year an analysis of greenhouse gas emissions in the city. It showed that pollution from vehicles has gone down 6% from 1995 to 2005, thanks to tougher standards and fewer people driving. The State Department of Environmental Conservation revealed that enforcement of environmental standards has been significantly lax because 33% of diesel trucks surveyed entering upper Manhattan grossly violated State emissions standards. Enforce more, don’t tax more.

On the charge that more revenue is needed to improve mass transit, here are the facts. Most of the improvements, such as expanding ferry service, creating bike lanes, creating Bus Rapid Transit lines, building the Second Avenue Subway, and creating new regional commuter hubs, are already being fully funded or implementation has already begun--all without a new tax. Funding through efficient planning, Federal grants and other investments has been working quite well enough.

How Does It Work in London

London’s congestion tax scheme is similar to the one proposed in New York City. While it did out-price some people from driving into London, the level of traffic congestion in 2002 and 2006 was exactly the same--about 2.3 minutes of delay per kilometer. In the short life of the congestion tax in London, the fee has already doubled from £5 ($10) a day to £8 ($16) a day. The tax zone also doubled from 8 square miles to 15 square miles, meaning more potential drivers to tax. Now the Mayor of London wants to charge all SUVs £25 ($50) a day. Bus fares were still increased a couple of years into the tax by 10%. Furthermore, a recent poll shows three-fourths of Londoners are against the congestion tax altogether. Other local governments in the UK, because of London’s revenues, are trying to impose their own congestion taxes, but with extremely high public and business opposition due to the massive tax burden.

How Do New Yorkers Feel About It?

About two-thirds of New Yorkers have been consistently opposed to the plan since last year. They would only consider it slightly favorable if it were used to prevent mass transit fare hikes, but this is something the Traffic Congestion Mitigation Commission recommends against.

Republicans generally oppose it more than Democrats, though opposition from both sides is at or above 60%.

No wonder opposition is so high: commuters who drive into the City from the Five Boroughs have a median income of $41,000 a year. That represents the equivalent of a 172% increase in State income tax for someone earning $41,000!

The Past Becomes Our Future

In 1990, several City Council Members introduced a City Charter amendment to ban congestion pricing in New York City. It never went anywhere, and here we are.

The people of New York City and New York State would be wise to oppose this scheme and work towards better and more efficient means of improving transportation and the overall ability to live and work in our state rather than resort to the typical liberal solution: if there’s a problem, tax something.

Jonathan Judge is the Secretary of the Brooklyn Young Republican Club and the Editor-in-Chief of the GOPyr.