Do Republicans Understand Poverty? Thursday February 2, 2012 Where is Ann Richards when you need her? She once said of George H. W. Bush, “Poor George... he can’t help it. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth!” Mitt Romney seems to suffer the same affliction. But when he made comments about the “very poor” it was not merely an unfortunate sound bite -- it also indicates a profound gulf between the poor and many other Americans. This is a gulf that Republicans seem not to understand. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, February 1, 2012 9:25 pm
The near future will demonstrate that America's Post WW2 economic expansion was the exception, not the rule.
Why America Will Not Regain Its Former Economic Strength Monday, January 30, 2012 Rochester, NY - What's the biggest lie visited upon the American public during the all too numerous Republican Presidential debates? That, economic policy changes can positively affect prosperity in the U.S. And it's not just a Republican problem: President Obama piled it pretty high during his State of the Union address. A tidal wave of inescapable demographic facts have and will continue to overwhelm our nation's ability to stop the decline in real wages for America's middle class. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, January 30, 2012 7:28 am - 3 opinions posted
Joe Morelle, district-maker extraordinaire: "Trying his best to look like Gary Cooper, super duper."
Proposed Redistricting Maps: Incumbency Shines Through Friday, January 27, 2012 Who are the happiest men in the Rochester area today? A good guess might be our area’s state legislators -- at least those who represent parts of the city of Rochester. All three Assemblymembers and both Senators have received a late Christmas gift from the state leg. Now the only question is whether the governor will sign on.... Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, January 26, 2012 11:22 pm
Will a challenger focus on Gantt this year?
Will Gantt Face a 2012 Challenge? Wednesday January 25, 2012 Two years ago, Rochester City School Board Commissioner Van H. White attempted to take on Assemblymember David Gantt. The effort failed when a judge determined that White did not meet the residency requirement. But New York State’s Constitution has provided White -- and other potential candidates -- an opening in 2012. Does this mean Gantt will face a challenger? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, January 24, 2012 7:11 pm
Downtown Syracuse: Armory Square is only one of its superior qualities.
Op-Ed Briefs: Even Syracuse has a Better Downtown than Rochester; Roch. Parents Union's Foolish Stand on Condoms Monday, January 23, 2012 Rochester, NY - In Downtown Rochester's seemingly endless struggle to re-invent itself, perhaps city leaders need look no further than 80 miles down the road, to the success Syracuse has found. The Rochester Parents Union (RPU) has officially announced it is against the distribution of condoms in City schools. It would seem the RPU advocates a conservative-religious position, rather than a pragmatic, non-judgmental approach. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, January 23, 2012 5:41 am - 4 opinions posted
Is Smugtown Unsustainable? Friday January 20, 2012 All Rochesterians have now heard the news: Kodak has declared bankruptcy. But even before this news broke, accusations were flying regarding who or what has led to Kodak’s demise. The publisher of Forbes magazine, writing in the Wall Street Journal, points the finger at Smugtown: small-town thinking stifled innovation at Kodak. Does Smugtown smother innovation -- will it bring us all down, just like Kodak? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, January 19, 2012 9:09 pm - 1 opinion posted
...except for Presidential candidates, and a warm hearted people (photo of actual billboard in Manhattan).
A N.Y. Times Yankee in King Buffett's Court Wednesday, January 18, 2012 Rochester, NY - Right off the bat, this article is no more about the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett, than it is about Mark Twain. But what this article may be about is the unwanted presence of New York style arrogance in the Land of Milk and Honey. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Wednesday, January 18, 2012 7:12 am - 1 opinion posted
Mitt Romney, revolutionary?
Why Monroe County Republicans Need Mitt Romney Friday January 13, 2012 This may not be a good time to be a Democrat -- but Republicans are not really enjoying their salad days either. Despite a clear path to the nomination for Mitt Romney, conservatives are not yet on board. Depending on how these national divisions play out, they could pose long-term problems for local Republicans. For Monroe County Republicans, their hearts may be with other candidates, but in their heads, they should pray to the spirit of Joseph Smith that Mitt Romney has a good year. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, January 12, 2012 9:32 pm - 4 opinions posted
Green: So, does someone want their knife back?
The Mike Green Saga: A Tale of Two Smugtowns Wednesday January 11, 2012 For Mike Green, it has been the best of times and the worst of times. Nominated for a federal judgeship, he thought he had a lifetime appointment to a substantive job (with nice pay and benefits to boot). But as his nomination languished, the appointment turned into a curse: not acted on by the Senate and dropped by the Obama administration, Green is now out his judgeship and his former job as District Attorney. How did the best of times become the worst of times? Two distinctly different narratives could be told. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 8:34 pm - 1 opinion posted
As long as your bullying and hatred is clothed in religious cover, a bill in the Tennessee legislature will encode this discrimination in the law.
Op-Ed Briefs: It's Okay to Bully in Tennessee, as Long as One is Religious; Bob Duffy & Joe Morelle have No Clout in Albany Monday, January 9, 2012 Rochester, NY - In the Volunteer State, Tennessee, a bill before the state legislature, if passed, would make it okay to bully gay and lesbian kids in school. Well, may I volunteer that this is one of the last gasps of Conservative-White-Christian America, hiding behind the 1st Amendment, only when their defense of same, suits their narrow, religiously bigoted attitudes. Lt. Governor Robert Duffy, along with his comrade, Assemblyman Joe Morelle, clearly have zero clout with Governor Andrew Cuomo when it comes to securing large state grants, the way Buffalo and NYC do. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, January 9, 2012 7:00 am - 2 opinions posted
The Republican Presidential nominee? Former Mass. Governor Mitt Romney.
Why Do the Media Hate Mitt Romney? Saturday January 7, 2012 He’s handsome, successful and disciplined. He has campaigned for the presidency almost non-stop since 2007. He is a former businessman, he led the Salt Lake City Olympic committee and he is a former governor of Massachusetts. And yet with a huge campaign war chest, leads in virtually all state and national polls and a somewhat surprising -- but narrow -- victory in Iowa, the media are acting like Romney is on the verge of self-destruction. What is their problem? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Saturday, January 7, 2012 6:30 am
Former airport director Susan Walsh in her DWI mug shot (East Rochester Police).
The Scourge of Alcohol(ism) Thursday, January 5, 2012 Rochester, NY - The former director of the Greater Rochester International Airport (GRIA), Susan Walsh, was arrested for DWI recently, in the early evening, in the Village of East Rochester. While it was locally a high profile arrest, DWI and the rampant use (and abuse) of alcohol is the great unspoken social epidemic of the modern age. How do I know? Because the only anti-alcohol public service announcements you'll ever see are the ones warning about the perils of driving while drunk. Good luck viewing one that instructs the viewer not to consume the "most harmful" drug in the world. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Thursday, January 5, 2012 4:03 am - 4 opinions posted
Too easy to forget why we live here: Greater Rochester has numerous strengths; few drawbacks.
Can You Handle Some Good News? Monday, January 2, 2012 Rochester, NY - Why is life so good in Greater Rochester, for the majority of its citizens? Well, the mayor that continues to surprise, Rochester Mayor Tom Richards, just announced he's on the side of city residents who would like to retain their constitutional right to vote for their school board. More broadly, Metro Rochester scores well in national surveys in terms of cost-of-living, short commute times, a solid housing market, and healthy job growth. But what are the intangibles that make life in Greater Rochester so appealing? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, January 2, 2012 7:42 am - 4 opinions posted
Richards: "I know how to run things: cities, schools, whatever."
Mayoral Control Redux -- This Time The City Will Employ Expertise Thursday December 29, 2011 Assemblymember David Gantt has announced he will reintroduce legislation establishing mayoral control of Rochester’s schools. This time City Hall is ready. Having learned several important lessons over the years, it promises to run the schools like it has run our fair city. God help us all. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:58 pm - 1 opinion posted
Out-going Roch. Mayor Duffy swearing in current Mayor Tom Richards: Why are Democrats so afraid of Joe Morelle?
Best & Worst of 2011: Predictions for 2012 Tuesday, December 27, 2011 Rochester, NY - Locally, 2011 was a wild ride for Smugtown residents. And our most entertaining politicos? Bob Duffy, Carl Carballada, in-coming Mayor Tom Richards, and a compliant, rubber stamp City Council, which succumbed to Joe Morelle's inexplicable charisma and intimidation. Morelle helped his minions circumvent the City Charter, so Richards wouldn't suffer the indignity of having to withstand a full election cycle. But both locally and nationally, our mayoral escapade wasn't the only notable story in Smugtown USA. And, what do you wish for in 2012? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:55 am - 3 opinions posted
Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays! From all of us at the Smugtown Beacon! Here's to NOT 'politics as usual', in 2012! Enjoy...
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, December 25, 2011 12:28 pm
Machiavelli Morelle
With Friends Like These... The Curious Relationship of MCDC and Organized Labor Wednesday December 21, 2011 Politics, the cliché goes, makes strange bedfellows. Politics also breeds cynical behavior in some. Put these tendencies together, and you have the only plausible explanation for a curious mailer that went out to voters in the 16th LD during this past election. If you think local Democrats and organized labor have an interesting relationship, read on.... Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, December 20, 2011 8:19 pm
Dumb & Dumber: Islam will rule the world only if ignorance rules the world (oh, no!).
The Arab Winter of Our Global Discontent Monday, December 19, 2011 Rochester, NY - Much has been made of the alleged Arab Spring. And justifiably: It is always a good day when dictatorial regimes are toppled. But unless you've had your head buried in the sand, quasi-secular dictatorships are quickly being replaced with strong man, ultra-orthodox Islamic regimes. From Algeria putting a dagger through the heart of free speech, to the Muslim Brotherhood's usurping political power in Egypt, Spring 2012 may not seem so giddy in what we call the Middle East. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, December 19, 2011 7:28 am - 1 opinion posted
Can we accept a downtown that never again looks like this?
MCC Deals Another Blow to Downtown -- Big Deal? Wednesday December 14, 2011 Add another wrinkle to the brow of Mayor Thomas Richards: first the PAETEC deal falls through, leaving a yawning hole in the center of the city; now, MCC has decided to pursue a city campus just outside of downtown. Despite Richards’ best efforts, the downtown area is becoming the Mayor’s Moby Dick -- an elusive opponent that seems to slip away at every turn. Should the Mayor seek other fish in the sea? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, December 13, 2011 9:14 pm - 2 opinions posted
Jet Blue passengers trapped 7- hours at Hartford's Bradley International: Call 9-1-1 for false imprisonment?
Monday, December 12, 2011 Rochester, NY - Even though technically outlawed by the FAA, indefinite and inhumane tarmac delays that strand airline passengers for hours are merely a symptom of a far larger and equally evasive problem: Commercial airline travel in the U.S. is no longer functional. Can it be saved?
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, December 11, 2011 1:02 pm
Will we ever grow up?
Bullying in America Wednesday, December 7, 2011 This past week, Spencerport joined a national debate about bullying. The tragedy gives many of us pause, as we reflect on our own experiences -- either as participants or witnesses. It also causes this writer to ask: does bullying every really go away, or does it just change form as we age into adulthood? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, December 6, 2011 8:49 pm - 2 opinions posted
This graphic was created for Long Island taxpayers, but the situation in Monroe County is nearly identical.
The Corruption of State and Local Government Monday, December 5, 2011 Rochester, NY - It is so terribly easy (and justified) to negatively criticize our federal government, both the legislative and executive branches. All one needs to do is recall the recent dismal failure of the so-called Deficit Reduction Commission. Model U.N. 7th graders would've had more success than the buffoons that run Congress. The corruption to which I refer isn't a matter for prosecutors or law enforcement: No, this corruption speaks to a lack of logic, and, a failure to keep an eye on the bottom line, on the part of our alleged representatives in Albany--and governments in Monroe County. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, December 5, 2011 5:39 am - 1 opinion posted
Beautiful building; ugly Congress
Does the Failure of the Congressional Supercommittee Spell Doom for Another American Century? November 28, 2011 Supercommittee or SuperBad? Congress delivered a turkey for Americans on Thanksgiving. Not soon after that, Democrats blamed Republicans and Republicans blamed Democrats. Is this just politics or is there something bigger going on? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, November 27, 2011 7:53 pm - 3 opinions posted
Occupy Rochester: Just what do 'these' people want? Equity & opportunity? (Photo MetroJustice.org).
Occupy Rochester: Structural Economic Reform vs. Get a "Bath and a Job". Friday, November 25, 2011 Rochester, NY - The other day, I visited Washington Square Park in downtown Rochester, and interviewed six protestors, whom are all part of the so called "Occupy Rochester" movement. While their motives seemed sincere, and their behavior toward me was always honorable, their complaints and demands were less clear. You be the judge. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, November 25, 2011 7:51 am - 5 opinions posted
Guest Essay: Rochester City School District Living Well (Beyond its Means) Wednesday, November 23, 2011 Rochester, NY - Today, the Smugtown Beacon.com welcomes our guest essayist, and frequent Smugtown commentator, Willa Powell, to the fold. In her essay, the Honorable Ms. Powell, a long time serving member of the Rochester City School District (RCSD) Board, draws parallels between the sub-prime mortgage debacle that almost sunk America into another Great Depression, and the kind of borrowing encouraged by the State of New York, and the RCSD's willingness to accept such dubious loans. Read More ... Willa Powell - Posted: Wednesday, November 23, 2011 5:27 am - 8 opinions posted
Mr. Harry Davis
Harry Davis on Trial Monday, November 21, 2011 Rochester, NY - For those of you who simply do not recall, Democrat Harry Davis (who has run for public office several times in the City of Rochester), recently found himself embroiled in a legal dispute with an activist who collected petition signatures for Mr. Davis earlier this year; one Stephen Diaz. As you will read shortly, things have gone from bad to worse for Harry Davis. How can a man with seemingly such good intentions end up in this political mess? You may not believe your eyes. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, November 20, 2011 10:06 pm - 2 opinions posted
"I will close three city agencies: Commerce, Education..." -- no wait, that was someone else
Mayor Richards’ Governing Strategy: Steady, Flexible, Occasionally Inexplicable Wednesday, November 16, 2011 When he was selected after a tumultuous campaign in early 2011, it was clear Thomas Richards was no Robert Duffy. It was also clear that he would behave predictably -- “continuity” being one of the purported reasons that many Smugtown elites rallied around Richards. But in some ways, Richards has zigged when conventional wisdom would have had him zagging. What is his broader strategy? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 9:10 pm - 1 opinion posted
This, is the problem!
Is America a 'Man Hating' Nation? Tuesday, November 15, 2011 Rochester, NY - A recent letter to the editor in the Democrat & Chronicle stated the problem between the genders far better than this journalist ever could: That's why I reprinted 'the letter' inside this article. American women have been empowered, and have empowered themselves, over the last 65 years or so. But at what cost to men? Continue, if you have the guts. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 am - 7 opinions posted
Lancers draw 6,500 fans for 1st ever 'indoor' home opener, but run into a brick wall, known as the Missouri Comets.
Lancers Draw Well, but Lose in Their Home Opener Sunday, November 13, 2011 Rochester, NY - The NEW Rochester Lancers more than half-packed the 12,000 seat War Memorial yesterday, for their 2011-2012 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) season home opener. Though the Lancers lost to the Missouri Comets 13-4, it appears, based on crowd reaction, that pro indoor soccer, in Rochester, is here to stay. Read More ... Staff Reports - Posted: Sunday, November 13, 2011 5:02 pm
We wish to honor not only our nation's Veterans, but all active military personnel.
Veterans Day Weekend: We Salute Our Community's Military Personnel with a Free Offer Friday, November 11-Saturday, November 12, 2011 Rochester, NY - The Smugtown Beacon.com, in association with the Rochester Lancers Indoor Professional Soccer Team, would like to honor all of our community's veterans, as well as all active U.S. military personnel. Details inside. Read More ... Staff Reports - Posted: Saturday, November 12, 2011 8:43 am
Smugtown Beacon Celebrates its 4th Anniversary, Today. Thursday, November 10, 2011 Rochester, NY - Four years ago today, the Smugtown Beacon came into existence, publishing a brief election day wrap up, of the local 2007 elections. On this 4th anniversay, we would like to thank our many loyal readers and members. We know it is cliche, but no less true: We really could not have done it, without you! Go inside to read the article that ran that particular day, exactly four years ago. Read More ... Staff Reports - Posted: Thursday, November 10, 2011 9:22 am - 2 opinions posted
Republicans strengthened their hand in the County Lej -- maybe they won't need as much security?
What Messages Were Voters Sending in Monroe County in 2011? Thursday, November 10, 2011 With Election 2011 over, political elites are now fully committing their attention to Election 2012. Before things get swept up in the maelstrom of state and national politics, it would be good to take a moment to take account of the state of Monroe County's major parties. What does 2011 tell us about what may lurk in the future? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 9:06 pm - 2 opinions posted
District Attorney-Elect Sandra Doorley: Democrat makes local history by becoming first female DA in Monroe County.
Doorley Upset Winner for DA's Office; Maggie Cruises; Nude Photos Hurt Eckel. Wednesday, November 9, 2011 Rochester, NY - Prosecutor Sandra Doorley won handily over Republican Bill Taylor to capture the Monroe County District Attorney's office, winning 58-42%. Incumbent Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks made it look easy yesterday, defeating outgoing Brighton Supervisor Sandy Frankel, 57-43%. And the balance of power shifted clearly in the direction of the GOP, as they expanded their majority in the Legislature, from a 16-13 majority, to now holding 18 of 29 seats. I suppose defeated Democratic County Legislator Stephen Eckel's nude photos on the internet didn't help Democratic fortunes much? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 9:51 am
Sandra Doorley vs. Bill Taylor, for DA: Experience versus the D&C endorsement (photo: Gannett).
Smugtown Political Endorsements: Apathy as High Art Monday, November 7, 2011 Rochester, NY - Maggie Brooks has out fundraised, and out spent Sandy Frankel, about 3 to1. The D&C shocked the local political world by endorsing Republican Bill Taylor over Dem Sandra Doorley in the DA's race. And as usual, too few County Legislature races are contested. If the world--and Greater Rochester--is going to hell, you wouldn't know it by the apathetic local mainstream media, and Mon. Co's very 'silent majority.' Endorsements to follow. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot & Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Monday, November 7, 2011 5:34 am - 1 opinion posted
Lancers striker Doug Miller: Early middle age did not show Friday night as the ex-Rhino superstar scored his first Lancers goal.
Rochester Lancers Lose a Close One, in Debut Game Sunday, November 6, 2011 Syracuse, NY - After 31 years of dormancy, the new Rochester Lancers opened their first ever indoor professional soccer (MISL) season on the road, at the On-Center (War Memorial), in downtown Syracuse. While the Lancers did not win Friday night's battle, it appears indoor soccer--in Central and Western New York--won the war. The following was published in the Saturday, 11/5/11 edition of the Syracuse Post Standard. (www.rochesterlancers.com)Read More ... Staff Reports - Posted: Sunday, November 6, 2011 1:31 am
Why isn't the Town of Nassau in Nassau County?
Where is Rochester, NY? It is Not as Obvious as You Think? Saturday, November 5, 2011 As Smugtown residents head toward election day, a light-hearted respite: why does New York State have such confounding place names? Is it too much to ask that a town be located in the county of the same name? Apparently, yes, it is. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Saturday, November 5, 2011 7:19 am - 1 opinion posted
'Deep Throat' in "All the Presidents Men": We can't offer you Redford or Hal Holbrook, but may we present, "Sore Throat".
Geneseo: A Study in Land Development (Part 2) Wednesday, November 2, 2011 Rochester, NY - In part one, I presented just one side--of many sides--of an on-going debate in Geneseo regarding real estate development, the extension of water and sewer lines, and busted expectations about promised riches when Interstate 390 came to town. Yesterday, I took a drive down to our neighbor to the south, and found a great source, who will serve as deep background, known only as "Sore Throat". Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Wednesday, November 2, 2011 9:15 am - 1 opinion posted
Does Smugtown deserve better? Will we ever change?
Smugtown Spook-tacular: Are we Doomed to Forever be "Smugtown USA?" Monday October 31, 2011 Smugtown Beacon reader Thomas Brennan raised an intriguing question in a recent comment: who is to blame for Smugtown’s ongoing “smugness”? To address this question, we must first define this rather elusive concept. We then consider the three leading suspects: political elites, the media and Smugtown’s residents. Will we conclude, in Shakespearean fashion, that our fault lies in ourselves? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, October 30, 2011 9:40 pm - 3 opinions posted
Who da thunk it? A car rental icon is at the center of the cultural battle between Islam and secularism.
It HERTZ to Hire Muslim Employees? Friday, October 28, 2011 Rochester, NY - At Sea-Tac Airport in Metro Seattle, Hertz Rental Car recently fired approximately 25 Muslim employees, for not "clocking out" when taking multiple prayer breaks, daily. Hertz apparently violated its contract with the Teamsters, by dismissing employees over on-the-clock religious observance. Who's right? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, October 28, 2011 6:29 am - 3 opinions posted
Bill Nojay, Esq.
Is There a Newspaper in Your Future? Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Rochester, NY - Mr. Nojay is at it again, and this time he targets the real (and perceived) liberal bias of the Democrat & Chronicle, specifically, and the Gannett newspaper chain, in general. Enjoy. Read More ... Bill Nojay - Posted: Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:22 pm - 8 opinions posted
Mike Green - Democrats' last DA?
The Case of Taylor v. Doorley: Will Monroe County Ever Elect a Republican DA? Monday, October 24, 2011 High school students in Monroe County probably do not follow local politics closely, but if they did, two things would be foreign to them: A Democrat as County Executive and a Republican as District Attorney. The Smugtown Beacon has already handicapped the County Executive race, where it seems unlikely the established pattern will be broken this year. In the contest for District Attorney, one more difficult to predict with no incumbent in the race, Monroe County voters will have to sift through competing ads that have grown increasingly strident. Will Democrats' decades-long win streak finally end? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, October 23, 2011 6:23 pm - 3 opinions posted
Outgoing Brighton Supervisor Sandy Frankel: Despite her leadership, she has not been able to ascend the political ladder outside the 12- Corners.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 Rochester, NY - While being a completely affable, professional, intelligent, and experienced human being (and politician), Democrat Sandy Frankel has no chance of beating Republican incumbent Maggie Brooks for the Monroe County Executive's seat. Here's why.
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Wednesday, October 19, 2011 10:19 pm - 7 opinions posted
Come on Monroe County, you know you like me!
The Power of Being Liked: Maggie's Not-so-Secret Weapon Wednesday October 19, 2011 Voters might say they vote for the best candidate or the person they think will be the most loyal to their governing philosophy. But in reality, voters often align themselves with candidates on a gut level. Some pols cultivate this feeling naturally -- we sometimes call it "charisma". Others work at it. Some do not bother at all, instead working to earn re-election through legislative accomplishments or constituency service. In 2011, Maggie Brooks is betting on the fact that, well, people just like her -- even if they don't like the scandals and fiscal mismanagement that surround her. Will Brooks' likability be enough to carry her to victory this year? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:32 pm - 3 opinions posted
Geneseo: Fantastic state university, but provincial government?
In Geneseo, New Houses Follow Local Government's Extension of Water Lines (Part 1) Monday, October 17, 2011 Rochester, NY - A long time resident of the Town of Geneseo, Mr. Ray Rogers, claims that something is fishy about the way housing tracts are approved, and the way local govenment first attempts to extend water and sewer trunk lines to otherwise rural land. First in a series. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, October 17, 2011 12:03 am - 1 opinion posted
Jefferson (Thomas) to Monroe (county): "Anyone up for a revolution?"
The "Occupy" Movement: Will it be the War of 2012? Wednesday, October 12, 2011 For months, liberals have complained, "where is OUR Tea Party?" The "Occupy Wall Street" movement may be the answer -- but is it the one liberals want? The real question is this: in a battle to the death between democracy and capitalism, which side will Americans choose? And should Rochesterians engage in this epic battle or stand politely to the side as smug, conscientious objectors ("we don't argue about those things in Rochester")? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 8:41 pm - 2 opinions posted
Burying your head in the covers won't make reliable sources like Columbia University or the CDC go away.
Monday, October 10, 2011 Busan, South Korea - During my brief 12&1/2 hour jaunt over the North Pole to atttend the Busan International Film Festival, I had just enough time during my flight to read two articles pertaining to the beliefs of some of the lefty-liberal, crazy, wacked out, granola crunching crowd (some men; more often women), regarding the latest craze for the nutritionally crazy: Eating gluten-free. Aren't some of these types the same people who shun immunization shots for their own children? America--and Park Avenue, Rochester--in the New Age.
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, October 9, 2011 3:32 am - 6 opinions posted
Amerca's Czar: Thomas Brackett Reed -- the last "big government" Republican?
Three Bold Steps Democrats Can Take to Shake up National Politics Wednesday, October 5, 2011 By now, it is clear that national leaders are not yet marching in lockstep with the recommendations of the Smugtown Beacon. If Democrats want to keep the United States from descending into a gilded age black hole, they would do wise to consider three humble proposals that could dramatically scramble the political calculations being made in Washington. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, October 4, 2011 9:27 pm
What might have been. PAETEC's even smaller, shorter rendering of their alleged Midtown HQ (that will never be built).
Monday, October 3, 2011 Rochester, NY - On August 1st, Windstream announced its aquisition of PAETEC for $891 million (to shareholders), & the assumption of $1.4 billion in PAETEC debt. While this may come as good news for PAETEC shareholders, it is a major blow to Downtown Rochester's redevelopment plans. If Mayor Tom Richards has any sway with the FCC, there's a chance the deal could be scuttled. And then there's always the shareholders vote. | The NFL has been--at least in part--ruined by the deadly slow, & TV commercial-ridden, booth and coach initiated instant replay review. Time to bury this game stopper?
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, October 2, 2011 11:08 pm - 2 opinions posted
Brooks' Republicans: a governing party, a cabal or a group eligible for RICO prosecution?
Comptroller Audit Calls into Question GOP Rule of Monroe County Saturday, October 1, 2011 A recent audit by the New York State Comptroller poses both a substantive and political problem for County Executive Maggie Brooks and her fellow Republicans. Substantively, they are being accused of engaging in shady practices around a bid competition sponsored by the county. Politically, they must decide if they can effectively dismiss the allegation as "mudslinging" or if a charge such as this might stick, reminding voters of the Water Authority, the Airport Authority, dowtown office leases and Robutrad. Are Republicans about to lose their grip on power? Should they? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Friday, September 30, 2011 7:57 pm - 3 opinions posted
Wilmot Interview on WHEC TV-10, Sunday, 7:00a.m. Friday, September 30, 2011 Rochester, NY - Smugtown Beacon.com Co-owner & Publisher Christopher J. Wilmot will appear on WHEC TV-10's "Rochester In Focus", this Sunday morning, October 2, 2011, at 7:00a.m. The show is hosted by TV journalist Ray Levato. Mr. Wilmot will discuss his recent feature film, "Lucky", a South African production, which just won rave reviews at the Toronto International Film Festival. Wilmot also discusses the Smugtown Beacon.com. on WHEC TV-10, during Sunday's show. Read More ... Staff Reports - Posted: Thursday, September 29, 2011 10:45 pm
The Rochester Metropolitan Statistical Area -- more than a city
Did You Mean Rochester City or Rochester MSA? Thursday, September 29, 2011 Last week the US Census Bureau released local data relating to poverty. As with all census and similar data, consumers are challenged to think carefully if the numbers they are looking at actually reflect what they think they do. For example, "Rochester" could be a city of 210,000 people or a metro area of just over 1,000,000. Statistically, those two places are very different. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 7:47 pm - 1 opinion posted
E.R. Police Sgt. Paul Monachino: DMV gives DWI cop his license back, kind of.
Op-Ed Briefs: Drunk E.R. Cop Pleads Not Guilty, Gets His License Back; Lady Gaga and Buffalo Bullying. Monday, September 26, 2011 Rochester, NY - East Rochester Police Sgt. Paul Monachino, arrested recently for DWI, and, injuring teenagers in a car crash he caused, is going for the plea deal, but announcing in court he is "not guilty". Have you no shame, Mr. Monachino? Buffalo area suicide victim Jamey Rodemeyer has some high profile advocates, even in death. Lady Gaga said in a very recent concert that 'bullying should be illegal...It is a hate crime'. When will the lazy and perpetually idiotic NY Legislature make bullying--especially cyber bullying--a crime? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, September 26, 2011 3:52 am - 2 opinions posted
Powell: Take your pick, RBA -- tardy or offensive.
Be Suspicious, Be VERY Suspicious Friday, September 23 What exactly is the Rochester Business Alliance up to? If it has to do with public education in the Rochester City School District, you can be certain of one thing: they are up to no good (aside from their own). Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, September 22, 2011 9:37 pm - 2 opinions posted
Under-cover photos show Saskatoon road crews taking it easy, on the taxpayers dime (same in the Empire State?).
Does NY State Suffer the Same Corruption in Road Construction as does Canada? Monday, September 19, 2011 Rochester, NY - A new report in the Canadian Province of Quebec uncovers massive corruption in how road repair contracts are awarded. Ever wondered why so many road construction and repair crews in NY State seem to be standing around, while one or two guys seem to be doing all the work? And why the hell did the DOT install a pedestrian crossing utility pole in Brockport, blocking the marquee of the Strand Theater? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, September 19, 2011 7:20 am
An outsider breaks through on the Dem side: Mary Adams wins the D line in November
The Role of the Political Outsider in Rochester September 15, 2011 With local primaries complete, Rochester area voters look toward November knowing the options available to them. But as we consider who will govern our city, county and towns, it is worthwhile to consider the role that "outsiders" play in our political system. Even when they do not win elections, they play a very important role -- one that is too often diminshed by a media that prefers familiar narratives (David v. Goliath, the "crazy" outsider) to complex ones. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, September 15, 2011 8:53 am - 3 opinions posted
Factory workers in Chicago: Echos of Argentina in 2001? (photo by Bendangl.net)
Take Back Your Job Tuesday, September 13, 2011 Rochester, NY - The American standard of living is declining. Most high paying manufacturing jobs are now just a distant memory. The solution? You better begin buying American products. And, is it time for a workers revolution in this country, where, like in Argentina, factory workers begin to take over their factories, and purchase the company? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Tuesday, September 13, 2011 7:55 am
Powell: D&C appears not to like her intellect (an awfully big word for them)
D&C Endorsements: More Convoluted Reaching to Protect Establishment Pols Thursday September 8, 2011 -- In part II of our endorsement review, the Smugtown Beacon considers some of the reasoning behind endorsements made by Rochester's other major print publication, Gannett's Democrat and Chronicle. Like City newspaper, the D&C shows that it is willing to twist logic into previously unknown geometric forms to justify their support of some candidates and their disfavor toward others. What they are really saying: "here's who supports our view of ourselves -- and here's who has the audacity not to do so." Guess who got endorsed and who didn't? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, September 7, 2011 8:13 pm - 2 opinions posted
Brennan: not waiting by the phone for his endorsement from City newspaper
Mainstream Papers Endorse for Primaries: Smugtown Cabal Anoints Loyalists Monday September 5, 2011 As Rochester heads toward its crucial September 13th primary, local powerbrokers have virtually huddled and determined who (they think) the winners shall be. But since this is no banana republic, Rochesterians will still have the opportunity to vote -- and maybe, just maybe, elect independent voices to local office. In the meantime, one thing is clear: the cabal that dominates local politics and media do not like independence and they clearly get uncomfortable trying to find a basis for their endorsements. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, September 4, 2011 7:53 pm
Texas Gov. Rick Perry: Religious zealot, and, President-Elect?
Presidential Candidates the Ruin of the GOP; Ruin of the Nation Friday, September 2, 2011 Rochester, NY - From Texas Governor Rick Perry and his prayer rallies, to Congresswoman Michele Bachmann and her attempts to 'cure' gays, the current crop of Republican Presidential hopefuls could scare even Cotton Mather. Despite President Obama's dismal poll numbers, these GOP White House seekers would have to exit the 1950's, and attempt to reside in a new, more diverse America, if any has a remote chance of unseating our incumbent President. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, September 2, 2011 6:29 am - 2 opinions posted
Mayor Daley -- er, Richards: "The police are there to preserve disorder"
Tom Richards' "God Awful" View of Police Conduct Tuesday August 30, 2011 Theoretically, how much police intimidation of law-abiding citizens is too much? Is there a point where it goes from being mildly tolerable high-jinks to offensive abuse of power? Does it matter whether you have consistently bad experiences with the RPD or not? Perhaps. But one thing is certain: a mayor should be more sensitive to the fact that police-community relations are not good in Rochester -- and taking a "boys will be boys" approach shows a callous indifference to that important relationship. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Monday, August 29, 2011 9:29 pm
Downtown Rochester, near sunset (symbolically, too?).
A Downtown for the City Monday, August 29, 2011 Rochester, NY - Attorney and political commentator Bill Nojay has some unconventional, yet as always, logical points to make about what ails Downtown Rochester. As PAETEC's H.Q. makes its Midtown exodus, has anyone really inquired about, honestly, which constituency and client base Downtown should serve? Read More ... Bill Nojay - Posted: Sunday, August 28, 2011 7:47 pm - 1 opinion posted
Bobby Seale: not interested in chitchat with The Establishment
Political Discourse: Are We Past the Point of Talking Out Our Differences? Wednesday August 24, 2011 A key element of democracy is mass participation -- usually in the form of voting, attending public debates, writing letters to politicians and other forms of political participation. But data have shown that a relatively small proportion of Americans are politically "active" in these ways. Moreover, lately it seems that the most active among us are the ones with the most extreme views. Can politics at any level -- local or national -- exhibit a constructive, mutually-respecting dialogue or are our politics destined to be "war by other means"? (and is that so bad?) Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, August 23, 2011 9:47 pm
Billionaire Tom Golisano & 37-year old gal-pal Monica Seles: I betcha Monica doesn't argue with the taxman over a few thousand square feet!
Op-Ed Briefs: Midtown Plaza, False Hope Extravaganza? Golisano Has the Dough to Pay His Taxes; Remembering Nora Bredes. Monday, August 22, 2011 Rochester, NY - Now that the cat is way out of the bag, and now, like Mr. Chesonis likely knew for quite a while, we Rochesterians suspect that the failed Midtown-PAETEC project smells a lot like the fast ferry, what will fill that gaping hole Downtown? To say Tom Golisano has done a lot of good for this community--for this region--is to state the obvious (saving the Sabres; Golisano Children's Hospital, etc.). So why is the local billionaire-who-made-good fighting his tax assessment in Victor? Though I knew her barely, Ms. Nora Bredes will be sorely missed in a sometimes provincial community, that should have appreciated, more, her out-of-towner perspectives. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, August 22, 2011 8:55 am - 4 opinions posted
Greg Jefferson: an irreplaceable loss to the community
Remembering Greg Jefferson Tuesday August 16, 2011 The Rochester community needs all the strong leaders it can find. Yet this past week, we lost a tower of strength for the community. Greg Jefferson, a 20 year Army veteran, an employee at Action for a Better Community, Depaul and most recently the Rochester Housing Authority and an active volunteer coach and member of various local boards died suddenly last week. Mr. Jefferson leaves a gaping hole in the community and in the hearts of friends ad family. But his loss also reminds us that one person can make a huge difference -- and we need many more people like him to turn our community around. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Monday, August 15, 2011 7:43 pm
1 in 6 Americans believe in ghosts. Too bad more don't believe in global warming and debt reduction.
The Un-Official Census Monday, August 15, 2011 Rochester, NY - Published earlier this year, "The Unofficial U.S. Census", by Les Krantz and Chris Smith, examines Americans and their habits, perceptions, and beliefs in myths. In short, if you've ever read the U.S. Census, and wanted more, this article should inspire you to visit Amazon.com, or better yet, take a trip to your local bookstore (while there are still a few left). Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, August 14, 2011 8:56 am
Rochester: Best Theater Location?
PAETEC and Performing Arts: Which Direction for Downtown? Wednesday, August 10, 2011 As an enormous hole in the heart of downtown continues to grow, Rochesterians -- and suburbanites who delight in endlessly scrutinizing every decision made in the city they hardly ever visit -- wonder what will someday fill that hole. Two competing visions (at least) present themselves: downtown as a business center or downtown as an entertainment hub. Which will win? Which -- if either -- will ultimately be successful? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, August 9, 2011 9:10 pm - 2 opinions posted
Another Goldman Sachs debt flunkie: Greenspan, like Geithner, Paulson, and Bernanke, is at least partly to blame for our recent and on-going recession.
Why the American Debt Crisis is Neither Left nor Right Monday, August 8, 2011 Rochester, NY - As American media are so prone to do, they have framed the national debt crisis in 'black and white' terms: Democrat vs. Republican, right vs. left, and liberal vs. conservative. Would it surprise you to learn that this kind of adolescent, asinine, either / or thinking is partially what caused, and what has prolonged our enormous personal, private, and public debt debacle? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Sunday, August 7, 2011 10:44 pm
The media show the debt clock -- but why not a "countdown to the expiration of the Bush tax cuts" clock?
Conservative Narratives Dominate Recent News Thursday August 4, 2011 Several prominent news stories at the state, local and national levels all share a common trait: they have been told using a conservative narrative. Liberals, fuming at what they perceive as an Obama sell-out on the debt ceiling, have yet another challenge: how to undo a telling of events that seems straight of Fox News. What does this mean and why does it matter? It could be a preview of 2012. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, August 3, 2011 9:07 pm
In for the long haul: Harry Davis keeps tilting at windmills, and democracy is the beneficiary.
Harry Davis at War Wednesday, August 3, 2011 Rochester, NY - Harry Davis is running for Rochester City Council against incumbent Elaine Spaull. Or is he? What follows is a no holds barred, quite 'blue', e-mail transcript that illustrates Mr. Davis' electoral challenge. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Tuesday, August 2, 2011 8:41 am - 16 opinions posted
Obama contemplates playing his trump card
The Beacon Predicts: Obama to Unilaterally Continue US Solvency, Ignore Debt Limit Friday July 29, 2011 You saw it here first: Without an agreement from Congress to raise the statutory debt ceiling by Monday, President Obama will avoid a default by simply ignoring the debt ceiling, ensuring all creditors are paid. What is the Beacon's "secret source"? Logic. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, July 28, 2011 8:21 pm - 2 opinions posted
Political posturing as high art: Reid, Pres. Obama, and Boehner muscle flex as a depression looms.
Professional Liars and Flip-Flop Artists Wednesday, July 27, 2011 Rochester, NY - The St. Petersburg (FL) Times won a Pulitzer Prize in 2009 for its fair, unbiased political watchdog arm, PolitiFact.com. Let's see what the experts say regarding these Three Blind Mice, their pronouncements about our nation's debt crisis, and the 'truth' about the impending, worldwide depression. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Tuesday, July 26, 2011 8:19 pm - 2 opinions posted
Eric Cantor (R-VA): John Boehner's right hand (holding knife)
Should Local Republicans Stick with the National GOP? Monday July 25, 2011 -- Before local Republicans had finished delighting in riding animosity toward Nancy Pelosi to a new majority in the House of Representatives, they began feeling a sense of nausea. That nausea should, by now, be accompanied by headache, anxiety and dread. Why? Because the national Republican party is trying, with all its might, to drive the country and the party off a cliff. What should locals do? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, July 24, 2011 9:36 pm - 1 opinion posted
Does Harper Sibley have this in mind for a new ferry to Toronto?
Lies, Dirty Lies, and Half-Truths in Greater Rochester, and Around the World Friday, July 22, 2011 Rochester, NY - The late George Carlin was fond of saying that America's most significant export or product, is "Bullshit". Inside, find a litany of proposals, ideas, philosophies, and products--both local and not-local--that do not pass muster with the 'Smugtown Truth Squad'. Read at your peril. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, July 22, 2011 6:49 am - 1 opinion posted
I guess blonds really do have more fun. Casey Anthony: Likely murderess, busty, and out of prison. What if 'she', had been a 'he', and African-American? Same verdict?
Missing White Woman Syndrome Monday, July 18, 2011 Rochester, NY - The acquittal of Casey Anthony caused CNN to examine an interesting American cultural phenomonon: The political and media protection that white women enjoy in America, 2011; known variously as 'White Woman Syndrome', and/or 'Missing White Girl Syndrome'. What kind of "protection", you may ask? And, if white women really do receive a special class dispensation, then which class, gender, sexual orientation, body type, or race doesn't receive the same deference? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, July 18, 2011 7:28 am - 3 opinions posted
Unbowed from his career-ending UN presentation on Iraq's non-exitsent weapons, Powell has found retirement "motivating"
Celebrities Flock to Rochester to Motivate, Perpetuate Myths and Make Money Wednesday July 13, 2011 Presumably they came to town to "motivate" Rochesterians to strive for higher personal and professional achievements. More transparently, they were also here to promote products featured during the "Get Motivated" seminars conducted in cities across the country. But even more insidious things were afoot in the Blue Cross Arena -- to the shame of the big-name celebrities who contributed to the attempted brainwashing of locals. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 8:37 pm - 1 opinion posted
Repub. Presidential candidates Bachmann & Santorum: The Anita Bryant & George Wallace of our time (photo from blogs.e-rockford.com).
Op-Ed Briefs: Rochester Number One?! Should Congresswoman Michele Bachmann resign? Monday, July 11, 2011 Rochester, NY - What do the organizations and publications MSN Real Estate, Forbes.com, and Sperling's Best Places have in common? All three recently picked Greater Rochester as the nation's best metro in which to live. Find Out why, inside. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R-MN), an aspiring Sarah Palin...I mean, an aspiring Presidential candidate, recently signed a right-wing Christian pledge that actually included a passage claiming African-American children had it better during slavery than black children currently living in the Obama era. Time for Bachmann to resign? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, July 11, 2011 8:51 am - 4 opinions posted
Some people can't shake the individualistic thinking of John Locke
Emily Good Takes on ... The Enlightenment? Thursday July 7, 2011 This week, Rochester resident Emily Good took the Rochester Police Department to court. Asked about what she hopes to achieve, Good gave a response that reveals the enormous challenge she faces: she is not seeking a judgment against the individual officer who arrested her; rather she is seeking a communitywide dialogue around how police do their job. For that to happen, Ms. Good will have to undo the enduring legacy of the Enlightenment on American political culture. Good luck! Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, July 6, 2011 10:21 pm - 1 opinion posted
Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood just cut off gas deliveries to Israel. Here, RG&E works 99% of the time.
Why You Should Still Feel Grateful Being an American (and why you should not) Monday, July 4 - Tuesday, July 5, 2011 Rochester, NY - Why am I still grateful to be an American? Easy. Nearly all infrastructure works, nearly, all of the time (street lights, sewers, water & waste treatment, roads are paved and repaired, etc.). Also, and unlike Italy, an American can write, speak, or yell on a street corner that the police are corrupt, and not face imprisonment (SEE Amanda Knox case). But while America is still a great nation, we suffer from too many urban ghettos, millions unemployed and with no health insurance, and the continuing failure of public education. But, here we are, 235 years later. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, July 4, 2011 10:22 pm
The name was Rodney King -- in case you forgot
In Police and Government Work, Appearances Matter June 30, 2011 Rochester Mayor Thomas Richards and Rochester Police Department Chief James Sheppard have responded to the Emily Good issue wih textbook neutrality. Staying firmly on the side of facts and reason, both have committed to a thorough review of the facts and then -- and only then -- a conclusive position on the events surrounding Ms. Good's arrest and the equally concerning activities of the RPD at a meeting of Good's supporters. But are both the Mayor and the Chief missing a major point? Appearances, in some cases, create a separate reality of their own -- and those appearances must be addressed, on their own. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, June 29, 2011 9:30 pm
An elated Emily Good: "I feel great!" (photo courtesy of Kathy Goll)
Emily Good's Day in Court "Great" Tuesday, June 28, 2011 Rochester, NY - Former defendent Emily Good, 28, was absolved of any criminal wrongdoing Monday, when the District Attorney's office withdrew its charge of "2nd degree criminal obstruction of police administration", and asked City Court Judge Jack Elliott to dismiss the charges. When I asked Ms. Good, just after she exited the court room, if she would be pursuing a 1st Amendment lawsuit, she responded, "I believe so". Click inside this article for our own video, the rest of the quotes, and story. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, June 27, 2011 10:15 pm - 8 opinions posted
Rochester's Emily Good: Question is, how good does the RPD feel, right about now?
Rally Today in Support of Police Videographer Emily Good Monday, June 27, 2011 Rochester, NY - The Rochester Police Accountability Coalition (RPAC) has called for a rally today, Monday, June 27, at 12:30p.m., in front of the Hall of Justice, 99 Exchange Blvd., in support of activist Emily Good. As you'll remember, Ms. Good was arrested in her yard for videotaping a police stop of a vehicle in front of her home. An assistant public defender will ask a judge today to dismiss the criminal charges against Emily Good, that she somehow obstructed police by videotaping them. So, what was the RPD thinking? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, June 27, 2011 6:35 am - 1 opinion posted
At least Ike's military-industrial complex didn't hoard wealth to the degree that today's equivalent does.
As Government Retreats, America Revisits Serfdom Friday, June 24, 2011 The Tea Party, national Republicans and even state and local political leaders share an agenda that is becoming clear: the rollback of government and the promulgation of an ideology that promotes a dog-eat-dog version of democracy. Despite data showing a steady divergence between the top 5% of Americans and "the rest of us", popular opinion continues to entertain rhetoric that derides taxes as a disincentive to success and that considers commerce as a sacred a right as speech and religion (despite the fact that the Constitution is silent on capitalism). Tying together events at the federal, state and local level, Rochesterians could choose to feel powerless or they could engage in some revolutionary behavior. The revolt has to start somewhere, right? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Thursday, June 23, 2011 8:59 pm - 3 opinions posted
"Baby Doc" Duvalier: His recent move to Mon. Co. has launched his Primary campaign against Sandy Frankel.
This Might Be Satire Wednesday, June 22, 2011 Rochester, NY - National Public Radio (NPR) claims that The Onion believes it deserves a Pulitzer (but of course The Onion should win!). And so it goes. Proceed inside this article, if you dare. You may be in for quite a sarcastic, scare. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Wednesday, June 22, 2011 12:16 am - 2 opinions posted
"I can't drive, 55!" Sammy Hagar drove faster than 55, and so did everyone else.
The Upstate Company Store, Part 3 -- Sagebrush Rebellion Monday, June 20, 2011 Rochester, NY - This week, Bill Nojay lays out the history, and possible local application, of what is called 'Sagebrush Rebellion'. Ronald Reagan caught the wave, and won the Presidency twice, by enormous landslides. Can East Coast entrenched bureaucratic government, like we see in the Empire State, take a page from the American Revolution, and, Western ranchers? Read More ... Bill Nojay - Posted: Sunday, June 19, 2011 9:00 pm
Senator '2nd Story Man': Did Cuomo offer Jim a free pass next year?
Op-Ed Briefs: Is Lightfoot's Political Career Floating Down the River De-Nile? E.R. Police Sgt. Charged with DWI. Why Did Alesi Cave? Friday, June 17, 2011 Rochester, NY - Monroe Co. Legislator Willie Lightfoot, Jr. took a plea deal, and avoided jail for DWI, and interfering with police. Now Lightfoot claims he wasn't driving drunk: Okay? East Rochester police Sgt. Paul Monachino was celebrating with newly sowrn-in E.R. Police Chief Steve Clancy at the Northside Inn, when Monachino decided to hit another bar on the way home. But who was driving Monachino's vehicle when he nearly killed three teens in a mini-van? State Senator James Alesi pulled the political surprise of the week by announcing that he was changing his mind about same sex marraige in the Empire State, and would now vote in its favor. But was this change of heart truly altruistic, or did Governor Cuomo offer a sweetener? Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, June 17, 2011 7:38 am - 4 opinions posted
Destiny for Urban Rochester's Youth? On average, it's this, or jail, unless enormous changes are made.
Greater Rochester's Future (Part 2): Radical Policy Proposals for Change Wednesday, June 15, 2011 Rochester, NY - In part one, it was demonstrated that there are structural patterns to the disparities in opportunity in the Greater Rochester area. These structural inequalities follow lines of race, class and gender and are built-in to many local political and economic policies. The only way to root them out: significant change in how this community does business. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, June 15, 2011 7:17 am - 2 opinions posted
Many towns, one city -- separate lives and separate opportunity structures
Greater Rochester's Future: A Matter of Probability? Monday, June 13, 2011 A recent study commissioned by the Community Foundation reveals that the Rochester area could benefit from a massive redistribution of assets from one generation to the next -- if, that is, people commit those assets to their hometown and do not take them with them (by moving out of the area). But the decisions people make often have to do with the path their life has taken to that point -- and that path looks very different depending on where you were born, what your skin color is and what opportunities are available to you. The data do not lie: in the Greater Rochester area some people succeed and some do not because our community has not yet ridden itself of structural barriers to success. Is this a real phenomenon or is it simply excuse-making for people who underperform? You be the judge. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, June 12, 2011 9:34 pm
Poll Report: How Did Medicare Influence the Hochul-Corwin-Davis Race? Sunday, June 12, 2011 Rochester, NY - When Kathy Hochul took the oath of office last Wednesday, did she apologize to the seniors she scared into believing that Republicans would take away their Medicare? Read More ... staff reports - Posted: Saturday, June 11, 2011 11:10 am
Rochester Mayor Tom Richards: From the man who delivered heat & light to your home, to the man who just might save Flower City.
Portrait of a Mayor Thursday, June 9, 2011 Rochester, NY - While some of us in Smugtown may not have exactly liked the way Tom Richards, Esq., became Mayor, there are those of us who have been pleasantly surprised by what a quick study Mayor Richards has proved. But Tom has a way of winning over critics, and even bringing smiles to their faces. Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Thursday, June 9, 2011 12:36 am - 2 opinions posted
"For Whom the Bell Tolls": Ingrid Bergman can no longer shed tears for Hemingway, nor could she ever cry for the way Mon. Co. suburbs treat 'their' City, like a Detroit or Youngstown.
Monday, June 6, 2011 Rochester, NY - Despite the herculean efforts of in-coming Rochester Mayor Tom Richards, the City of Rochester is an unsustainable economic and tax model. In terms of social and economic justice, it's long past time Greater Rochester's suburbanites begin paying their fair share for their proximity to, and use of Rochester's culinary, cultural, and employment sector benefits, of which City residents currently shoulder a disproportionate and unfair tax burden. Suggestions to follow.
Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Monday, June 6, 2011 7:00 am - 6 opinions posted
Will Rochester back Barack?
Calling Rochesterians for Obama: Who Will Answer? June 2, 2011 In 2008, Barack Obama was elected President on the strengh of a massive fundraising effort and a very successful volunteer mobilization. In Monroe County, Obama won an overwhleming majority in the city -- but also a majority in the suburban towns. Part of Obama's local success was due to local organizer Ken Preston -- a longtime Democratic party activist. Preston is once again calling for volunteers to join the Obama cause (Saturday, June 4th, 1-3 pm at the Bagel Bin in Brighton). Will they turn out in force or have Obama's promises of "hope" and "change" left past supporters feeling Obama now needs to be changed? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, June 1, 2011 8:58 pm - 3 opinions posted
Is Watkins' challenge of McFadden a harbinger of change -- or politics as usual?
Are Monroe County Democrats About to Change Their Spots? May 30, 2011 One swallow does not make a spring -- and one reformer does not make a reform movement. But the real question for local Democrats is this: Is Anthony Plonczynski's involvement in challenges to the party Establishment an indication of a genuine effort to change the party or it simply an example of one set of oligarchs seeking to oust an existing set? This year may be a pivotal one for Joe Morelle and MCDC. Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, May 29, 2011 9:39 pm - 1 opinion posted
And the Rhinos' FREE Ticket Give-Away Winner is... Friday, May 27, 2011 Rochester, NY - Smugtown Beacon.com reader, member, and Rhinos' ticket contestant Craig Sullivan (pictured at right) was the winner of (4) four VIP seats and club pass parking to tonight's Rochester Rhinos versus Wilmington (NC) Hammerheads pro soccer match, at Sahlen's Stadium. Thank you to all that entered the ticket drawing, and keep an eye out for more ticket give-aways in the future! Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Friday, May 27, 2011 1:55 pm
Writer & atheist Christopher Hitchens: Not praying, just contemplating.
Hitchens' Anti-God Tome, a Revelation Thursday, May 26, 2011 Rochester, NY - Is God dead? Author Christopher Hitchens might ask 'how could God be dead if he was never alive?' The more you look at it, folks, the more often you may come to the conclusion that the biggest hoax ever played on humans was not the Devil convincing people he didn't exist. The biggest hoax, in world history, has been manipulative people convincing the naive that God ever existed in the first place. Read on, if you dare... Read More ... Christopher J. Wilmot - Posted: Thursday, May 26, 2011 5:56 am - 4 opinions posted
Howard Eagle
'Smugtown Citizen' Guest Essay Wednesday, May 25, 2011 Rochester, NY - Frequent Smugtown Beacon.com reader and commentator, education activist Howard Eagle, shares with our readership a letter written regarding the Rochester City School District's (RCSD) search for a permanent replacement for former RCSD Superintendent Jean Claude Brizard. Will it be interim superintendent Dr. Bolgen Vargas? Read More ... Howard Eagle - Posted: Tuesday, May 24, 2011 7:25 pm
26th CD: Enjoy it while it lasts....
The 26th Congressional District and the State of Politics May 23, 2011 Residents of Smugtown have watched with engagement and bemusement as the three major candidates in the special election in the 26th Congressional District have beat one another senseless. Although the district includes Greece and parts of Western Monroe County, interest in the campaign has spread across the region and has spiked in Washinton, DC. Why is everyone so interested? What is at stake? And will the winner disappear in 2012 when the district itself very likely falls victim to partisan redistricting? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Sunday, May 22, 2011 9:56 pm
According to the RCSD website, this is the current superintendent.
Bolgen Vargas: the Latest Head-Scratching Action by the RCSD Board May 19, 2011 No matter how you cut it, the appointment of Bolgen Vargas as interim Superintendent of the Rochester City School District one week ago makes little sense. This being an election year, perhaps city residents will use the Vargas appointment as a motivation to ask tough questions of their Board members. Number one on the list: What were you thinking? Read More ... Aaron E. Wicks - Posted: Wednesday, May 18, 2011 8:48 pm - 4 opinions posted
