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.

An Interview with Steve Neuhaus

by Chris Dziedzic, Chairman

One of the things the Young Republicans aspire to is a networking community--not just among a small circle of friends, but a vast social network across the state and across time. To build those networks, I will be sharing some interviews I have held with previous state chairs of our organization. This first one is with Steven Neuhaus, who served two terms as Chair from 1997 to 2001.

CD: How did you first become involved in the Young Republicans?
SN: I became involved right after Bush lost to Clinton in 1992. I ran into an elderly couple that I used to work for in my teens. We started talking politics, and I expressed my disappointment in the GOP’s loss. They mentioned that I should join the YR's. I joined the Orange County YRs a month later and took over as chair within a year. The rest is history.

CD: When did you first become involved in the NYSYR?
SN: After taking over as Chair, I decided to bring the organization into the fold with the State YR's. We did that, and soon thereafter, we got involved in the YRNF as well. Both the YRNF and the NYSYR offered great opportunities to my members.

CD: How did your involvement in the Young Republicans escalate into serving as State Chairman?
SN: By working with other YR's around the state, we decided that change was needed. We fielded a ticket made up of YR's from around the state and despite being long shots, we won.

CD: What was the biggest challenge to overcome as NYSYR Chair?
SN: Bringing the whole state together after the race. Some of our ticket wanted to write off the losing side. Thankfully we didn't do that and for the most part, everyone had a seat at the table. We were all Republicans and didn't need to fight amongst ourselves. That's what the Democrats are for.

CD: What accomplishment as NYSYR Chair are you most proud of?
SN: I think that bringing all parts of the state together was the biggest accomplishment. By doing that we were able to cultivate the talent that the YR's attracted. Look at some of the key YR's from my administration today. Holly Tanner from Columbia County is the County Clerk, Matt Sciarrino is a Judge in New York City, Dan Birmingham is the Putnam County Legislative Chairman, Karl Brabenec is a newly elected Deerpark Councilman, Brandon Neilson is newly re-elected Blooming Grove Councilman, and I was just elected Chester Town Supervisor by a 2-1 margin. There are more out there as well. Most of the YR's I know from my time as Chair are currently GOP Committee members throughout the state. Our involvement in the YR's had everything to do with all of our successes in politics.

CD: What have you been doing both professionally and politically since your term as State Chair?
SN: During and immediately after my time in the YR's, I worked in the City Management Field. Since then, I was twice elected as Chester Town Councilman, and last month I was elected by the highest margin of any other candidate as Chester Town Supervisor. I also serve as my town GOP Chairman and sit on the OC GOP Executive Committee. In addition to my elected service, I currently serve as the HV Director to the NYS Assembly Minority Leader, James Tedisco. I also served 4 years in the Army and was just commissioned as an Officer in the US Navy Reserves.

CD: What parting advice would you like memorialized for future YR leaders over the next five, ten and twenty years?
SN: I would have to emphasize that we are all Republicans. Internal squabbles do and will happen. The quicker we can hash them out, the quicker we can get back to doing what we are supposed to do. . . getting Republicans elected. It's easier said than done, but it’s the only way for the Republican Party to be successful. “A house divided cannot stand” is as true as it gets.

Out in Right Field

Out in Right Field
by Julius Ponds

One of the recurring topics of this presidential election cycle is American foreign policy. What is the United States’ proper role in Iraq? What is the United States’ proper role towards other dictatorships around the globe? And this is not just an issue between Republicans and Democrats, but even an issue of contention among Republicans. You have some presidential aspirants who definitely question our role in the world. What direction should our Republican Party advocate in the field of foreign policy?

Let me give a little guiding quote…

“We declare, in the name of the people, that we will accord fraternity and assistance to all people who wish to recover their liberty, and we charge the executive power to give to the generals the necessary orders to protect these peoples and to defend our citizens who may have been or who may be harassed for the cause of liberty. The present decree shall be translated and distributed in all languages.”

Is this a quote from some neoconservative submission to the Weekly Standard? Or a resolution drafted by a hawkish portion of the current congressional Republican minority? No, instead it was a decree by the French National Convention on November 19, 1792. Yeah, yeah, all chuckles aside due to the French authorship, there is merit to prevailing attitude behind it.

The Girondist theory of foreign policy, which is exemplified in this decree, is one that speaks loudly to the current position of the United States. The Girondists recognized the important role of revolutionary France in Europe at that time, a position of hope and encouragement to others across the continent desiring to throw off the repressive shackles of absolute tyranny. They paid special attention to the effect and impact of their experiment in human freedom on foreign peoples. Likewise, we need to acknowledge the effect and impact of our even greater 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.

Few times in human history do both MIGHT and RIGHT reside in the same global power. The United States should not betray our duty and responsibility, but remain actively engaged in the world as a strong and powerful force for freedom and liberty. We should make sure that as Republicans, our party’s presidential candidate shares that view.

YR Club Notes

Brooklyn YRs

The Brooklyn YRs, as did many YRs throughout the state, got press during the pre-Super Tuesday media blitz. Secretary Jonathan Judge (above) was interviewed by CNN and News 12 Brooklyn about the Giuliani campaign and what young voters are looking for in candidates when it comes to the economy and the War on Terror. Though the Brooklyn YRs were saddened by Giuliani’s departure from the race, they are ready to pound the pavement to help make John McCain, the likely party nominee at the convention, the next President of the United States.

Usually meet the second Wednesday or second Thursday of the month at 7:30 PM. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Brooklyn YR’s website.

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

Capital District YRs

The Capital YRs worked hard gathering volunteers for Assemblyman Will Barclay’s special election campaign for State Senate in the 48th SD.
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

Livingston County YRs

Young Republicans are working together to form a club in Livingston County.
For more information about the club-in-formation, 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

Nassau YR President Andrew Stream spoke out again Governor Spitzer’s “Crack Tax” in a press release to local papers in late January. He particularly condemned the plan because he sees it as one step toward legalization and a way for the state to profit from harmful drug use.

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

New York State Senator Marty Golden and conservative author and legal analyst Mark Smith both spoke at the February Monthly Meeting of the NYYRC. Senator Golden spoke about Will Barclay’s special election campaign and urged everyone to volunteer upstate if possible, and he addressed several issues, including the Governor’s proposed “Crack Tax”. Author Mark Smith gave a rousing chat about simple arguments that can be used to counter (politely of course) any senseless liberal statements that you come across.
Usually meet every third Thursday at 7 PM, Union League Club, 38 East 37th Street, New York, NY. Usually host socials the first Wednesday of the month. 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 Becerril, Corresponding Sec’y)

Oswego County YRs

Our fellow young Republicans in Oswego County (some of who are pictured to the left) are working to establish a YR club. 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 (Under Construction)
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 SIYRs just had their elections and all the current officers were re-elected to another term. Congrats!

They also got quite a bit of pre-Super Tuesday press as well. President Anthony Reinhart (left) was interviewed by London’s SkyNews about the race and he comments about the potential power of Obamamania in this upcoming election. During the Florida primary, the New York Times covered their primary watching party, quoting SIYR VP Rich Hoffman, Assemblyman Lou Tobacco Chief-of-Staff Michael Coppotelli, and members Mike Law and Ryan Osborn.

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.wcyr.org
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)

Tusk Talk With Tusk Harper

Our dear friend, Tusk Harper, has informed the GOPyr that he is on holiday this month (in Aruba, in case you were wondering), and unfortunately will not be gracing our pages with the wisdom and wit that we have all grown to love.

However, he did tell us that he and his counsel will be back in March, a bit more sage--and a little tanner.

Questions? Write Tusk at tuskharper@yahoo.com.

NYSYR Spring Board Meeting & Leadership Conference

For more information about the NYSYR Spring Board Meeting & Leadership Conference on February 29th - March 2nd in Albany, visit the NYSYR website at NYSYR.us.

A Message from NYSYR Chairman Christopher Dziedzic

Happy New Year, my fellow Republicans!

As we enter into 2008, there are lots of reasons to be excited as a Republican in New York State.

First, Spitzer has disgraced himself with a couple of scandalous missteps.

There was Troopergate, an attempt to misuse the state troopers in order to smear Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno. This boomeranged on him and disgraced members of his staff, leading to some high profile resignations.

Later, Spitzer overreached himself in Licensegate. This misguided attempt to issue driver’s licenses to illegal aliens was eventually withdrawn after widespread opposition.

December polls by both the Siena Research Institute and Quinnipiac University show the governor’s approval rating dropping below 40%. As the Democratic standard bearer in the state, this bodes well for our Assembly and Senate candidates in the autumn of 2008.

Also, we have multiple New Yorkers running in the presidential content. Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani is one of the strong and viable candidates viable for the Republican nomination. Many Republicans can only imagine how much less blue our state would be wit a prominent fellow New Yorker on the top of the ballot. Our New York State Young Republican organization does not endorse individual primary candidates, but we do distribute information to our membership to help them get involved if and how they so choose. We were all honored to have representatives from five different presidential campaigns attend our Annual Holiday Dinner back in mid-December.

I am asking each of you to resolve as we begin the new calendar year, to work hard with me to help our entire Party throughout the year. It promises to be one of great opportunities, so let’s ensure it ends as one of our great successes.

Christopher Dziedzic, pleased by the return of the McRib, even if only for a limited time and only at selected locations, is the Chair of the NYSYR.

Will Barclay for State Senate

YRs at the Plate: Lee Zeldin & Dan Schorr

Lee Zeldin

Lives In: Shirley, Suffolk County, NY
Occupation: Lawyer & Captain, U.S. Army Reserves
Running for: U.S. House of Representatives, 1st Congressional District
Website: www.Zeldin08.com

New York's First Congressional District promises an exciting and action-packed race this year as an Army paratrooper, federal prosecutor and military magistrate all join the race on the Republican ticket--and as one person: Lee Zeldin.

Lee, a Shirley resident and an Army JAG and Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran with Fort Bragg's 82nd Airborne Division, says he's running for Congress in order to restore "the Suffolk County Dream."

Born in 1980 in East Meadow, New York and raised in Shirley, New York, where he attended William Floyd High School, Lee earned his bachelor’s degree, cum laude, from the State University of New York at Albany, majoring in Political Science, and his Juris Doctorate from Albany Law School all in five short years.

His campaign’s priorities include cutting taxes to make raising a family more affordable and to help create jobs, decrease the cost of health care for seniors, support our troops in the field, secure our borders and take care of our military veterans who have served our country admirably.

He recently left his position as Counsel for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in order to practice law at Raiser & Kenniff, P.C. and devote most of his time to his run for the United States Congress. He previously served as an aide to State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle.
Lee lives with his wife, Diana, and their twin one-year-old daughters, Mikayla and Arianna.

Special thanks to Suffolk County YR President Chris Como for this information.

Dan Schorr

Lives In: White Plains, Westchester, NY
Occupation: Lawyer & Prosecutor
Running For: District Attorney, Westchester County
Website: www.ElectDanSchorr.com

“Serving as District Attorney can help so many people and keep so many safe—there’s no better way to improve people’s lives,” says Dan Schorr, 35, candidate for Westchester County D.A.
Though the race isn’t until 2009, Schorr is looking to get an early head start to take back the D.A.’s office. Until current D.A. Janet DiFiore switched party affiliation from Republican to Democrat in 2007, Republicans had held the seat for the past 100 years.

Dan was born in New York, attended the University of Pennsylvania majoring in English. After graduating from UPenn, he went directly into Harvard Law School to earn his J.D and focus particularly in criminal law.

Once out of law school, his passion to serve the public as a prosecutor was realized. He was first hired as an Assistant District Attorney in the Queens D.A. Office in the Domestic Violence and Homicide Investigations Bureau. In 2001, Dan was hired as an A.D.A. in the Westchester County D.A.’s office in its Domestic Violence and Sex Crimes Bureau.

In 2005, Dan received an offer to teach judicial and legal reform as an Adjunct Professor in Criminal Law and Trail Advocacy in Tsinghua University and Zhongshan University to Chinese judges and lawyers for the better part of a year in Beijing.

Now, he is an Adjunct Professor teaching Criminal Law and Legal Writing in Pace University Law School.

In his free time, he has coached a local youth basketball team, serves on the White Plains Planning Board, and is active in the Westchester YRs.

A Weekend in New Hampshire

by Rich Alicea, Queens YRs

Growing up and spending my entire life in New York, I have grown accustomed to seeing presidential candidates skip over our state, in favor of those states that are more competitive.
Because of this, I have never had the opportunity to take part in any aspect of a presidential campaign, let alone actually traveling to other states to campaign for a candidate.

Luckily, presidential candidate and former mayor of New York City Rudy Giuliani has made New York a priority, keeping his national headquarters in Manhattan. As he has said in the past, he is making his presidential campaign a 50-state race, unlike in the past, where candidates would pass over states like New York, which frequently sway to the left.

The Queens County Young Republicans, as well as several other groups in the area, as well as YRs from across the state, including former state Chair, Jason Weingartner, have taken advantage of the opportunities afforded by this campaign strategy to become more active.
For months, volunteers have been working out of Giuliani’s Manhattan phone bank, making calls to Iowa and New Hampshire.

However, during the weekend of January 5th, we got a small taste of life on the campaign trail, making a trip to New Hampshire to campaign for Rudy during the final push before the primary, along with groups from across the five boroughs and Long Island.

Arriving in Manchester, NH on Saturday, we were immediately thrust into what was a hotbed of political activity.

Campaign workers for virtually every candidate, Republican and Democrat, were present, doing things from simple sign waving, to going door-to-door with campaign literature, which is what we spent most of our time doing. In contrast to the first trip we made to NH, back in November, the streets were packed with campaigners and journalists.

The bulk of our time in NH was spent talking with New Hampshirans about the policies we saw enacted by Rudy Giuliani during his tenure as Mayor. Because most of us lived in New York City during the Giuliani years, we were in a good position to speak of the great changes implemented under his administration, from tax cuts to the massive drop in crime rates to welfare reform. Many of the people we spoke to were very receptive to the issues we spoke to them about, particularly tax cuts.

They were impressed by the fact that many of us came up from New York City to talk about the candidate we know very well through our own experiences, rather than some candidate whose policies we learned about on the bus ride to NH.

As one would imagine, the days were long, and there was never a dull moment.

At the same time, it can be exhilarating, knowing the difference you are making on the campaign trail.

Even though the results of the primary may not have been ideal, our time was not spent in vain. According to the campaign, the volunteers from NYC accounted for visits to almost 10,000 New Hampshire homes and several thousand phone calls in only two days, making it one of the largest grassroots operations in the days before the New Hampshire primary.

With similar commitments in other states, especially those whose primaries take place on February 5th, we can hope to see much more encouraging results. Only then will the volunteers who are spending countless hours making phone calls, attending events and traveling to early primary states truly see the effect of their work.

Rich Alicea is the President of the Queens County Young Republicans.

Fundraiser - February 27, 2008 for Dan Schorr, Candidate for Westchester County D.A.

It’s Not Heaven, it's Just the Iowa Caucuses!

by Rick Cordaro, Onondaga YRs

I was born, raised, and educated in Iowa. When I tell people this, they assume I'm a farmer (I'm not. I grew up in suburban Des Moines, a city roughly the size of Syracuse, but with a much brighter economic future).

People figure Iowa is merely a patchwork of farms and hog lots somewhere "out west" with lots of flat land and very few people. Or they think Iowans grow potatoes (yes, people confuse Iowa and Idaho even though they are nearly 1,000 miles apart).

But every four years, Iowa becomes the center of attention for the media, presidential candidates, and the news consuming public. So, let me share with you a bit about the place.

First, some background: This is a state that has never had a female governor, never had a female member of Congress, and never had a female Senator. One current Senator is a Democrat, the other a Republican, and both are two of the most powerful Senators in Washington. Senator Tom Harkin (D) chairs the Agriculture Committee and Senator Chuck Grassley (R) is the ranking member and former Chairman of the Finance Committee.

The Governor's mansion has been occupied by both a Republican and a Democrat in just the last 10 years. President Herbert Hoover was from Iowa. And thanks to federal subsidies, 89 octane gas (that's the "mid-grade" gas here in New York, not the cheapest 87 octane or the premium 92 octane) is actually cheaper than the low- end stuff because it contains corn-based ethanol.

Now that you're up to speed, let's talk caucuses. By now, you know the Democrats have a wacky, drawn-out process of standing in groups horse-trading candidates and that Republicans simply cast a vote. But what is that like?

I spoke to my dad (a Republican) who caucused this year. He mentioned that it took 40 minutes, start to finish, to complete the process. That's because the Republicans give anyone in the room a chance to speak before the votes are cast. Joining my father was a United States Senator, several local elected officials, and a handful of regular citizens. My parents don't live in a high profile district, but the caucuses draw out all the big guns. Iowa is the first race in the country and no matter how many times New Hampshire negates the results of Iowa, it's a major political market that first week in January.

Then there are the commercials. I was back in Iowa over the Christmas holiday. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that three of every four commercials on network TV are for a presidential candidate. All those commercials we watch on YouTube and hear about on the news - they are running in Iowa. Going to Iowa makes me glad the candidates neglect New York! It is a constant, 24-hour, endless barrage of advertising.

And of course, there are the phone calls. Several times a day, the phone rings with another friendly voice chatting up their candidate. After a while, you just stop answering.

What does this all mean? If a candidate is not viable in Iowa, will they be viable anywhere else? Can they win nationally? Should you or I or anyone contribute to a candidate that is not electable nationwide? Any why do small states like Iowa and New Hampshire get to decide the fate of a candidate who may one day run the entire country? Do these states reflect the national interest? Is the process broken?

I don't know the answer to any of these questions, but I will be casting my vote on Super Tuesday! You should too. Vote for your favorite candidate in the primary and vote Republican in November.

Rick Cordaro is the Chairman of the Onondaga County Young Republicans and serves as Executive Director of the New York State Young Republicans.

One "Huck" of a Candidate

by Guy Amisano, Steuben YRs

It has been a long and winding road to the 2008 Republican Presidential nomination, one which has not yet been fully traversed. As we in New York prepare to cast our ballots on February 5th, the time seems to be appropriate for a review of the nomination race as it has developed so far and as it is likely to develop going forward.

By 2006, a consensus seemed to have developed among the political punditry that the nomination would be contested between a couple of Republicans whom social conservatives may have some reservations about supporting wholeheartedly.

One candidate, however, did emerge from the contenders who has supported many issues important to social conservatives consistently throughout his career; this is former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

Though deviating from the conservative line on economic and foreign policy issues, Huckabee has impeccable credentials as a social conservative. Buoyed by strong debate performances and the support of Evangelical Protestants, Huckabee won more votes than the much better financed Romney in the Iowa Caucuses. This disrupted Romney’s strategy of leveraging wins in the early states of Iowa and New Hampshire to capture the nomination.

Further, McCain was able to claim the New Hampshire primary in large part by taking advantage of Romney’s loss of momentum in Iowa.

In my view, the Republican contest will soon prove to be a two-man race between Huckabee and McCain. Romney needs to win Michigan to resurrect his campaign, but I don’t believe that is likely to happen considering the negative momentum working against him after performing below expectations in Iowa and New Hampshire.

One-time frontrunner Giuliani paid little heed to early states while focusing on larger and later-voting states, and this strategy seems to have doomed him. Giuliani must win Florida to stay in the race, but he may be unable to do that after losing primary contests leading up to Florida. Fred Thompson needs to win South Carolina, which figures to be a friendly Southern state, but he has polled so low recently that a win in any state seems improbable.

That leaves Huckabee and McCain. I expect that McCain will win Michigan and then face a battle with Huckabee in Evangelical-rich South Carolina.

If McCain wins Michigan and South Carolina, I believe the nomination is his. If Huckabee wins South Carolina, then I expect that Huckabee will also win Florida and he will be a slight front-runner over McCain going into “Tsunami Tuesday” on February 5th.

YR Club Notes

Brooklyn YRs

The Brooklyn YRs made a last-ditch mobilization effort to help Rudy Giuliani in the New Hampshire primaries earlier this month. President Bob Capano went up to New Hampshire for several days to help out with door-to-door campaigning. Back home in Brooklyn, Vice President Britta Vander Linden and Secretary Jonathan Judge helped to staff the local Brooklyn phone bank with YR volunteers, reaching out to a couple of thousand voters within the last 72 hours.

Usually meet the second Wednesday or second Thursday of the month at 7:30 PM. For the latest meeting and events information, visit the Brooklyn YR’s website.

Contact Information:
www.BrooklynYR.com
BrooklynYR@gmail.com
(Bob Capano, 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

Young Republicans are working together to form a club in Livingston County. They held an organizational meeting on Sunday, January 20th in Geneseo, NY. For more information about the club-in-formation, 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

Usually meet every third Thursday at 7 PM, Union League Club, 38 East 37th Street, New York, NY. Usually host socials the first Wednesday of the month. 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 Becerril, Corresponding Sec’y)

Oswego County YRs

Our fellow young Republicans in Oswego County are working to establish a YR club. They will be holding an organizational meeting on Tuesday, January 29th, 2008 at 6:00 PM in Chubby's, Fulton, NY.
For more information, please contact Terry Wilbur at tmwilbur1@hotmail.com or Scott McManus at scottmcm@twcny.rr.com.

Queens YRs

The Queens YRs now have a Facebook group, which can be located by searching for “Queens County Young Republicans”.
For the latest meeting and events information, please e-mail or call the Queens YRs.

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

Rockland County YRs

Rockland YR President, Frank Sparaco, was successfully elected to the Rockland County Legislature this past November. Congrats Frank!

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

On January 11, 2008, the Warren County Young Republican Club of Upstate New York celebrated their one year anniversary since their re-establishment in 2007. They have successfully recruited over 30 members to their group, and held their first fundraiser, the Annual Warren County Family Fun Day. The group has also helped out in various state, county, and local elections such as the 105 Assembly District special election, the Warren County officials’ elections, the Town of Queensbury elections, and the City of Glens Falls elections. Currently, the group is preparing for the upcoming 20th Congressional election, which is one of the most highly anticipated elections in New York State.

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

Next meeting: February 6, 2008 at 8 PM in the Westchester GOP Headquarters, 214 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains.

Contact Information:
www.WestchesterYRs.com
info@westchesteryrs.com

1-800-JOE4CHAVEZ

by Fernando Villegas, Orange County YRs

We should embrace Joe Kennedy’s call to accept free oil from Venezuela after he spends one winter night in a cold house of his own.

“Some people say that it is wrong to take this oil, I say it would be wrong not to.” Once again, a Kennedy is trying to undermine our national security interests and trying to be a hero doing it.
Not since Senator George Voinovich’s tearful opposition to John Bolton’s nomination for Ambassador to the UN have I been so entertained by a man whining for all the wrong reasons.

Although Voinovich eventually did a 180-degree turn-around when it was trendy to support the stellar job Bolton did while at the UN, I won’t hold my breath for the same with Joe Kennedy. With the Kennedys, however, it doesn’t matter how many people oppose their destructive ambitions. They are motivated by one thing, and that is permanent memorials built in their honor by the “little people” that they have kept down, while convincing them they have helped.

I have yet to hear from one person that came from modest means that credits liberal democratic policies for their rise to wealth (this excludes trial lawyers, of course). The fact of the matter is we defeat poverty with free market economics and capitalism not with so-called “free” or “low cost” oil, complements of Socialism or Communism.

If Joe is really interested in helping make home heating oil more affordable he would spend his time lobbying for the oil industry, instead of taking the easy way out as most liberals do. By “easy”, I mean parading “victims” of our cruel society or as Joe says, “the ones left behind.” The oil companies of this country are begging to explore for oil in places like ANWR and off the coast of the United States. The costs of exploration would be wholly paid out by the oil companies, not the taxpayers.

With the class of Michael Moore, we see Joe salivate over real, heart-wrenching stories. “Wait, wait, wait, you can’t afford heating oil AND your kid has a medical condition, AND you own a smoky wood burning stove? Are you available for a photo op tomorrow at 5, I’ll be the guy in the blue jacket--see you then.”

A carrot on a stick never kept anyone fed, let alone warm. Liberals enjoy walking around with carrots on sticks, leading the poor of this nation around for their amusement. Every once and a while they will let a carrot drop to the ground so the poor continue to trust that the leadership that they perceive to be “for them.” The truth is, if the poor in this country didn’t have the Democratic Party offering handouts instead of incentives, highlighting victims instead of opportunities, then the poor and even maybe the Democrats may just realize what this country has to offer. Ok, possibly not the Democrats, but definitely the poor!

Joe Kennedy boasts how his non-profit helps the people of the Northeast, close to if not in the very geographic area he represented while a member of Congress. Instead of creating jobs while he was in Congress so that people could pay for their heating oil, he would rather undermine our foreign policy to be called a hero again. While in Congress, had Joe focused on economic growth he would have had the ability to help many more people than what he claims to be doing now. Maybe Joe should travel to the outskirts of some Venezuelan cities and personally thank them for the heating oil. After all, isn’t this a gift from the people of Venezuela?

Wait a minute Joe….

Fernando Villegas is the President of the Orange County YRs.

Out in Right Field

by Julius Ponds

Some nights ago, I took time to watch the results from the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary roll in.

It was especially entertaining watching Ed Rollins get really punchy with Chris Wallace on Fox News. Many of us will remember Ed Rollins for his high-level involvement with K.T. McFarland’s senatorial campaign in 2006. Now Rollins is serving as national campaign chairman for Mike Huckabee. He was a very sore winner, as noted later by Brit Hume. I would strongly suggest that, instead, they role out more Chuck Norris and less Ed Rollins for these high-profile television appearances. Otherwise, the campaign of the former Arkansas governor could quickly become a Hucka-been.

Over on CNN, as I was munching on my McRib, Anderson Cooper was presiding over so many guest panelists and talking heads as if he were now hosting Hollywood Squares. “Donna Brazile is correct, so circle gets the square.” “OK, Anderson, I’ll take Bill Bennett in center square for the block.” And how did David Gergen feel about being relegated to the “kiddie” table? When you have so many analysts that you need a “kiddie” table for the overflow, it’s time to rethink your format.

Speaking of rethinking one’s format, one has to wonder how the Giuliani campaign is feeling. True, Rudy has a sizable war chest, and has still been polling well in the bigger states with February primaries. But how long will his polling remain high when other candidates are racking up victories in early primaries states and Rudy’s campaign is only giving marginal efforts? It’s going to get harder and harder to motivate volunteers for phone banks and door-to-door efforts for a candidate who is only pulling single-digit leads in high profile contests.

The following Tuesday, I watched the results come in from the New Hampshire primary. I tried to broaden my perspective by watching a little of the coverage on MSNBC. I found it extremely problematic. First off, they featured that shrew, Katrina vanden Heuvel, editor of The Nation. I find her so annoying. Among other things, she never uses the word liberal, but instead chooses to call her favored left-of-center positions progressive. Secondly, I found it disappointing that so much of the MSNBC coverage centered on making jokes at the expense of John McCain’s victory speech. It was as if, they slipped into a broadcast of one of the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts.

Earlier that Tuesday, I had an e-mail exchange with fellow Young Republicans, and discussed Hillary Clinton’s choking up episode. One of these was convinced that this was a calculated effort to win her some sympathy and show her in a more human and less calculating light. I disagreed. I could not think of a way in which showing weakness on television… crying or choking up or loosing one’s cool…could be spun into something positive. I felt that was especially true for a female candidate who would probably be fighting against latent misogynist biases in the electorate. I was expecting this to be an Ed Muskie moment, not a pivot for Hillary’s campaign to rebound.

In any event, a Republicans, we have an exciting winter head of us. With each of Huckabee (Iowa), Romney (Wyoming) and McCain (New Hampshire) having each won a state contest thus far, the field is wide open.

Tusk Talk with Tusk Harper

Dear Tusk,

All of my friends are Republicans. The last time I was amicable with a Democrat was in high school and she moved to Berkeley. Is it OK that I only associate with like-minded individuals, or am I constantly in a “spin zone?”

From: One Sided in Oneida

Dear One Sided,

You need to ask yourself some questions: why is it that you only associate with Republicans? Is it because, geographically, you can’t meet any Democrats or is it because you choose not to? Do you find that you get frustrated easily in debates? It is completely understandable that you do not want to waste conversation with some hippie from Berkeley, but the larger issue is determining whether you are specifically looking for liberal acquaintances or if you feel guilty that you “have to” have these friends. As long as you are secure in your own values, you shouldn’t have to worry about who you associate with.

Dear Tusk,

I am concerned about my weight. Doctors tell me to eat salad but I crave steak. I still live at home with my mother and she feeds me enough pasta for an army. Are there any good meals to eat? Help!

From: Dieting in Delmar

Dear Dieting,

Weight loss programs are often a hoax. Don’t believe all of the hype of avoiding carbohydrates while gorging on bacon and ricotta cheese. At the same time, be aware of portion control and try to stop yourself from taking that second helping. I am not a doctor, but I think that the McRib sandwich is small enough to meet your one-course requirement while also satisfying the primal urges for taste with a hint of mystery. It’s a meal worth driving two hours for.

A Message from NYSYR Chairman, Christopher Dziedzic

We have been fond of saying for the last four years that the New York State Young Republicans and its efforts are only as strong as our constituent parts, namely the individual county chapters. Because that is certainly true, I am thrilled by the growth we have already seen, with FIVE newly credentialed county chapters in 2007 (Chemung, Ontario, Queens, Warren and Washington). I’m looking forward to continuing that growth throughout 2008. Among other things it means:

• Maintaining a commitment to travel around the state to meet with the officers of current Young Republicans county chapters and with the leaders of prospective Young Republican groups. In this age of modern media, cell phones and e-mail allow for convenient and cheap communication across the state. However, nothing can replace the proverbial road trip in establishing a good rapport with fellow YRs and showing them a commitment that the state organization exists for their benefit, and not the other way around.
• Continuing the $1,000 grant program by the State Chairman to county chapters to reimburse them for outlays towards membership recruitment activities. Over the past two years, the Young Republican clubs in Kings, Onondaga, Steuben, and Westchester counties have availed themselves of this opportunity to fund targeted mailings and hold membership recruitment events. Since our state organization is financially strong, our best use of funds is to reinvest them into our member clubs to make them stronger. We will be developing an action plan for those county chapters who are interested in utilizing this resource.
• Advertising county YR chapter events through our State YR venues to maximize outreach. The NYSYR has a variety of outlets in which we can advertise county chapter meetings and activities. We have our website, www.NYSYR.us, our listserv, NYSYR@yahoogroups.com, our blog, NYSYR.blogspot.com, and, of course, our newsletter, the GOPyr. A proven method of outreach to potential new members is posting information about upcoming county club events in these forums. Our current state officers will assist our county organizations with how best to employ these outlets to their advantage.

Christopher Dziedzic is the Chair of the NYSYR. Send your criticisms and witticisms to chairman@nysyr.us.

Mr. November

by Anthony J. Romeo

When Reggie Jackson hit three homeruns in the 1977 World Series, he was going against great odds, but was still able to overcome and stand out from all the rest. Hence, he was nicknamed Mr. October.

There are many great candidates in the 2008 Presidential race, but I believe Rudy Giuliani will stand out from the rest. Hopefully, if all goes well next year at this time, we can refer to him as not only the President, but as Mr. November for Republicans.

Once I heard Mr. Giuliani was going to be in the presidential race for 2008, I knew he was going to get my first vote ever. I missed my first two chances to vote because of my own youth and ignorance.

But after all my travels and experiences abroad in the Navy, I now see, as an American, how important it is to vote. As a native New Yorker, I am convinced that Mr. Giuliani will have no problem facing our nation’s issues and executing an effective plan of action. America is the greatest nation in the world to me, as I am sure it is to all of you. That is why, back in December of 2004, I enlisted in the Navy. While traveling to many countries, I have seen first hand why our voting system should not be taken for granted.

I also know how vital it is to know the history of the candidate whom you are supporting.
Growing up in New York, I can remember Mr. Giuliani serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York City. If you did not know, he secured over 4,000 criminal convictions. I also remember how he changed the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission, where he made the emissions test more stringent for the thousands of cabs that roam through New York City each day. This was a great achievement because if you were living in the city during the late 80’s and early 90’s, you would recall too many of those taxi cabs breaking down on the side of the road or polluting the air with abandon when they were up and running.

If you look at Times Square now, compared to 20 years ago, it has made a complete 180-degree turn around for the better. I can remember walking through Times Square as a boy in broad day light, seeing all the peep shows, smut shops and prostitutes right on the street. It was down right disgusting for a young boy to see. Then Mayor Giuliani forced out the smut shops and increased the manpower of the New York City Police Department and the NY/NJ Port Authority to enforce the law. This led to a number of big corporations like Planet Hollywood, ESPN Zone, Olive Garden, The W Hotel, MTV's TRL, Toys R' Us and many others to set up shop in Times Square. This is just one of many reasons tourism has grown in New York City since Giuliani’s administration. Now, I look at Times Square in a completely different light.

I am sure he has not done everything right throughout his career, but what President has not made mistakes in office? Problems will always occur throughout time, but instead of avoiding an issue, Mr. Giuliani has and, I believe, will continue to face the issues head on.

On top of that, Mr. Giuliani is glorified for his actions during September 11th, as he rightfully should. Because of his cool, calm, collective thoughts and quick planning, he and his admirable staff were able to organize rescue crews, security units, as well as clean up crews for the after effects in less than a day.

I’m sure a lot of people might say or think that he just did his job. If you could remember the one-day black out in New York City in the late 70's, killings, riots, and chaos took over the city. All this lunacy erupted from a temporary loss of electrical power on that particular night!

You may think that this is an outdated example of the worst-case scenario, but then think about what happened after Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana. Remember all the unfortunate riots, lootings, and killings in the aftermath? I understand that September 11th was horrific, but the aftermath could have been so much worse.

In my opinion, if Mr. Giuliani were not there to take the proper actions that he did, there would have been a much greater disaster after September 11th. To me, he was a great attorney and a fabulous Mayor, so I have absolutely no doubt he would make an outstanding President for our great nation.

Anthony John Romeo is a sailor in the U.S. Navy who plans to get more active with the YRs and the Republican presidential campaign when he returns to New York.