U.C. Political Fishbowl

We're back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-09T00:03:00.002-04:00

Are you tired of Blaber, MoJo, Cahill, Clark and the rest of the bloggers of Ulster County? Well back by popular demand your Fishbowl is here again!

Stories you will see soon...

Tantillo vs. Auerbach?

What's been going on the Sixth Floor?

Kingston Mayor's Race 2011?

What are Mario and Julian going to do when they get kicked out as Chairmen?

What the hell is Woerner running for now?

Mickey Rooney... no wait, Andy Rooney... um sorry, Peter Rooney, challenging Kevin Cahill?

And a few more good ones along the way...

See you soon!

The King Mackerel (no not the guy who was a Councilman in Saugerties)

Rich Cahill Hits a New Low

2009-12-06T14:50:00.003-05:00

Rich Cahill is just the most gullible guy I have ever known in my life, that guy actually is floating around a rumor with Ed Palideno (a piece of shit if there ever was one), that Majority Leader Bill Reynolds and Alderman Tom Hoffay were having a romantic relationship....ROTLMFAO.

Where does Rich Cahill, who many believe is in the closet himself, come up with this shit. It probably makes Cahill's dick hard to think of his two political enemies going at it, hot shit right there, right Rich, bet you wish you could be there holding Hoffay's balls for him.

But really, of all people for the single openly gay bachelor Hoffay to be with...Bill Reynolds?! Don't get me wrong we like Bill and think he's a bright guy but clearly out of Hoffay's league. Come on now, now maybe that young Alderman in Ward 6 Ron Pollocco, you know he's single, has the look and is an up and coming actor.

All we're saying is we think Hoffay could do better..

While we joke about this, it's not funny, the fact Cahill would fall for this lame story made up in the head of a senile old man just shows Cahill's desperation and desire for power at any cost, no matter who would be hurt. Does Cahill realize that while maybe he can't have kids, that Majority Leader Reynolds does have a son and to insinuate this about his dad is beyond off limits.

Of course Cahill will claim he got comments on his dopey blog and came out against the attacks but that is Cahill's m.o., he heard a rumor, was not smart enough to dismiss it off hand, spread it around and tried to wash his hands of it.

These are the reasons why Rich Cahill will never be elected Mayor.

Julian Schreibman resorts to gutter politics against former boss

2009-09-29T21:36:00.026-04:00

Schreibman took Ulster County politics to a new low today when he unleashed an unwarranted attack against his former boss. In a Times Herald Record article we learned Schreibman filed a complaint with the Office of Court Administration against County Judge candidate Don Williams. Schreibman complains that Williams spoke at Nina Postupack's fundraiser and said if he were permitted to endorse a candidate, he couldn't think of anyone more qualified than this beautiful lady to my right.

As it turns out Screibman filed the complaint with the wrong office, the complaint should have gone to the Commission on Judicial Conduct according to Kali Holloway, a spokeswomen from the Office of Court Administration. Schreibman is not held in high regard by many in Ulster's legal community, but this takes the cake. He doesn't even know what office to file the stupid complaint. I wonder if that was in his Yale University political handbook.

A look at Schreibman's past reveals below the belt tactics is his trademark. This is the same guy that ripped apart Vince Bradley and called former Democratic Chair John Parete corrupt, he undermined John Sennett's campaign after losing to him at the convention, he started a petition to have Parete removed as Dem chair after Sennett lost the DA race and we all remember his showing at this years convention when he made up a story saying the governor appointed John Katz for judge. The most telling act of what kind of person Julian Schreibman is, is he filed a frivolous complaint against his former boss, a man who helped bring him and his family to Kingston. Shreibman doesn't have an ounce of loyalty or integrity.

I wonder if Schreibman knows that at a recent women's group meeting Deb Schneer stood up with Gilda Riccardi and told the group that Ulster County needs to elect women and everyone should work hard to support and vote for Gilda.

This is a clear sign that desperation has settled in among Democratic leaders. They know Don Williams and Nina Postupack are running away with their respective races. Julian taking the lowest of low roads won't help anyone.

Julian used to work at the Justice Department for George Bush. If it's not Yale's playbook he is using we know who's it is.

Has Reynolds been smoking some Cap'n Chronic?

2009-09-18T14:35:00.027-04:00

Has Reynolds been smoking some Cap'n Chronic? In his column, Hugh Reynolds admitted that he was pulling just a little bit for Michailescu, the bankrupt County Legislator candidate in UC Leg District 1 Primary Election on 9/15. We at the Fishbowl find that kind of support, by an old-school political reporter, who is well known for holding the feet of politicans to the fire, a little unusual.

Even the silent Democratic Party Chairman Julian Schriebman commented on Michailescu's candidacy that "A public servant should be expected to comply with all the obligations that citizens are expected to comply with. It's a bad sign if they're not paying their own taxes."

We wonder what would happen if someone like that piece of shit Jim Sottile went banktupt and wanted to run for office. Would Hugh Reynolds be pulling "a little" for Sottile like he is for Michailescu?

Unpaid School, Town, and Federal taxes and over $400,000 in unpaid credit card debt AND a $500,000 mortgage and he's pulling for her? WTF Reynolds? We see why the Freeman fired you, you've simply lost touch with the pulse of Ulster County.

And Catalano, have you been smoking the chronic with Reynolds too? You are going to "give campaign money to her, despite not endorsing her before Tuesday's primary." WTF are both of you thinking?

Ulster primary winner defends candidacy despite bankruptcy
By Adam Bosch

Times Herald-Record

Posted: September 17, 2009 - 2:00 AM

KERHONKSON — Manuela Michailescu failed to pay $7,715 in taxes to the Rondout Valley School District, racked up thousands of dollars in credit card debt and declared bankruptcy to the tune of $916,000 this year.

But after winning a spot Tuesday night on the Republican ticket, Michailescu still believes she'd be a great Ulster County legislator.

Michailescu, a 59-year-old Romanian immigrant and Rochester town councilwoman, was bashed by bloggers and politicos this summer when the terms of her bankruptcy became public. Many opponents questioned whether she could run for office here after listing a co-op in Rego Park, Queens, as her residence on bankruptcy papers. Her husband, Jon Dogar-Marinesco, listed their small antique shop in Kerhonkson as his residence.

Rochester officials recently posed the residency question to the state Attorney General's Office, but most believe it will be a moot point because Michailescu is registered to vote in Ulster County and lives mostly in her 1790s historic home on Route 209, which she and her husband bought in 2001 for $385,000. She might also lose that house, she said.

Still, some say the bankruptcy — loaded with credit card bills, income tax debts and attorney fees — makes Michailescu unfit to be a custodian of taxpayer money.

"A public servant should be expected to comply with all the obligations that citizens are expected to comply with," said Julian Schreibman, chairman of Ulster's Democratic Party. "It's a bad sign if they're not paying their own taxes."

Republican Chairman Mario Catalano said the GOP will support Michailescu and give campaign money to her despite not endorsing her candidacy before Tuesday's primary.

Michailescu said bankruptcy was unavoidable. Point Blank, her advertising and tourist marketing company, was battered after the Sept. 11 attacks and more clients left her as the recession hit. When the business suffered, the couple turned to credit cards and made their financial suffering worse. In bankruptcy papers, Michailescu and her husband say they had $1,981 of monthly income, but $10,634 in monthly bills.

The bankruptcy was finished in June, sweeping away most of the couple's debts.

"It's not that I can't handle the people's money," Michailescu said. "We just encountered a total loss of income. Nearly all our clients left."

Michailescu is running for one of four seats in Legislative District 1, which includes Rochester, Wawarsing and Marbletown. Republican Terry Bernardo and Democrats T.J. Briggs, Mary Sheeley and Joe Stockeler are also running.

abosch@th-record.com

Primary Surprises

2009-09-15T22:22:00.014-04:00

If Ulster County BOE web site is correct there were a number of stunners tonight.

First off, thank god asshole Frank Dart went down in flames. This guy is a complete idiot who can't add 2 and 2 together. He should have campaigned with Jeanette, I guess her being 99.9% with him wasn't enough. Dart has made a career of stabbing people in the back, a lot of smiling people in Kingston tonight. I wonder if dart knows that Donaldson was helping Madsen out.

Next up is Schneer, 75 fucking votes!!! I keep hitting the refresh button, it can't be correct. Where is Schreibman? Hiding in NYC? After tonight there is no doubt Don Williams will be the next County Court Judge. The accidental judge should resign because she's gonna take Democrats down with her. The big question is where was the Democratic Party? Judge Work, Paul VanBlarcum, and Judge Mcginty won 2-1, Schneer loses 3-1. No Democrat will campaign within 20 miles of her now.

Noonan. Goodbye. nough said. A great day for Ulster County.

Dart, Schneer, and Noonan--3 people who won't be in office come January.

Schriebman's let's make a deal backfired in Wawarsing. He and Stoeckeler cut the deals and guess who lost?

75 votes. WOW. The Democrats in charge now and losing are the ones that made a villain of sure DA winner Vince Bradley.

Hey Dart, when does Madsen get your vanity legislator license plate?

Endorsements for Sept 15 Primary

2009-09-11T20:21:00.005-04:00

THE RACES BELOW ARE ALL OF THE PRIMARIES FOR TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 - NOT RANDOM PICKS FOR ENDORSMENT BY THE FISHBOWL. THEY LIST THE DISTRICT AND THE PARTY THAT IS HAVING A PRIMARY. THESE ARE ONLY OUR PICKS FOR THE P-A-R-T-I-E-S THAT ARE HAVING A P-R-I-M-A-R-Y - they are not endorsements of political parties - just our picks for the races that those parties are having

Countywide
County Court Judge
Independence Party
DON WILLIAMS... because his opponent is more concerned with prisoner's rights than justice and protecting the public

County Legislator Races
District One
Republican
BERNARDO, STOECKLER, SHEELEY AND BRIGGS... because... are you kidding me? Does anyone really take that other lady seriously?

District Five
Independence
CAHILL... because Maloney really needs to buy his own car insurance

District Six
Democratic
MADSEN... because isn't 18 years of Dank Fart's FAILED LEADERSHIP enough?

District Seven
Independence
ANYONE BUT.... Lomita and Pitcock because you can only take so much of them

District Eight
Independence, Conservative
HOW ABOUT YOURSELF??... it's an open write in

Republican
RONK, TERRIZZI, HAYES.... because the committee has spoken

City of Kingston Alderman
Ward One
Republican
TURCO-LEVIN... because we need quality people like her in politics

Ward Eight
Conservative
LANGDON... because you have to have big balls to challenge Frank Felicello and stand up for what is RIGHT - and that's what we need in a politician in the City of Kingston

Ward Nine
Democrat
CLEMENT... because the other guy forced Madsen out, effff him

State Committee GOP Member, Denning, Hardenburgh, Rochester
Republican
BERNARDO... because the GOP is becoming more OLD than GRAND every day

Supervisor and Councilman, Woodstock
Democrat

JEFF MORAN for Supervisor... because he's doing a good job

KEN PANZA for Councilman ONLY... because we need fewer political hacks in Woodstock and more IBM Engineers on the Town Board

WTF...Jackson not Fawcett

2009-06-26T22:00:00.003-04:00

WTF...every newspaper and cable television network was covered with Michael Jackson today. I was hoping to see a lot more about Farrah Fawcett.

Some things just aren't fair.

Change of Heart in Wawarsing?

2009-06-22T22:02:00.016-04:00

Interesting news on Legislator Sue Cummings bid to become Wawarsing Town Clerk. A well informed Republican tells us that Sue has a small chance at best of defeating Deputy Clerk Roxanne Shamro, her Democratic opponent. At the Conservative caucus Roxanne out polled Sue by a 26-4 margin. Cummings husband John is the former chair of the Wawarsing Conservatives. My insider tells me that Sue can be a legislator for as long as she wants, but Wawarsinites will not vote for her clerk. Shamro is to well liked and people feel she deserves the job after working as deputy so long.

Some think Sue decided to leave the legislature to run for town clerk because Senator Bonacic had become a minority member of the Senate. With minority status he would have less staff and office space. With the Senate in limbo there may now be an opportunity for Bonacic to keep everything at pre 2009 levels.

If Sue decides to run for legislature this would be a pick up for Republicans. With Bernardo cross endorsed she is a win. Cummings would have to petition a primary against Stoeckeler, Briggs, Bernardo, and Sheeley. Republicans starving for a candidate would come out in masses to support her. The weakest Democrat, Briggs would be odd man out. With Bernardo, Stoeckeler, and Sheeley being crossed endorsed they win in November. This sets up a Cummings vs. Briggs battle for the final seat. We don't see how Briggs, a former Republican would have a chance of beating Cummings. Looking at last election cycle when Democrats did well Sue led the entire ticket and was 500 plus votes ahead of Briggs.

It may be a long shot scenario but after 20 years does Sue Cummings want to go out with a near guaranteed loss?

Are you listening Mario?

Schreibman and Patterson screw Schneer

2009-06-18T21:58:00.008-04:00

Analyzing the recent appointment of Deborah Scneer one would have to say Governor Patterson and incompetent Democratic boss Julian Schreibman bungled the entire process.

When appointing a judge to a vacancy the process is supposed to be an independent selection process. What Schreibman and Patterson did was turn it into an obvious political process. The original appointment was done on merit, the selection of Deb Schneer was done for politics.

The public knows this entire process was a sham and it tarnish's Ms. Schneer. The first question people ask is "is she qualified?" She was chosen because of politics, not qualification. This is very troubleing for someone who wants to be the highest elected judge in the county. Schneer didn't need this so why did she accept the appointment?

A convention run by an Idiot

2009-06-08T22:24:00.006-04:00

Tonight's Democratic Convention was one for the ages. Rookie Democratic Chairman Julian Schreibman face's a revolt that threatens his chairmanship. I was stunned as I sat and observed what an awful job he did. Schreibman told County Judge candidates that rank and file committee members would not be involved in the decision making process, instead he would hand pick a committee to make a recomendation to Governor Patterson. He opens up the convention by saying that the executive committee voted 9-0 to allow him to decide who was going to get the nod and stated it would be Jonathan Katz. Scarry Terry Rosenbloom, a Schreibman ali then stood up and nominated Deborah Schneer. What insued was total kaos. Governor Patterson nominated Katz today and then Schneer won a razor thin vote on the 2nd round. So now we have Katz a sitting County Judge (assuming he doesn't decline the Governors nomination) and Schneer the party's nominee. What the fuck? The worst part of tonight for Democrats is that Don Williams will now be assured election to County Judge. Katz and Schneer, primary or not will tear the party apart. Julians back room dealmaking has been slammed in editorials throughout the hudson valley, this will have a lasting impact in races throughout the county.

I saw one other unprecedented endorsement tonight. Longtime legislator Sue Cummings retired from the legislature and the Democrats had no one to endorse so they cross endorsed a Republican. What the fuck! An open seat and asshole Schreibman can't find a candidate.

District 8 Republicans are in turmoil after Noonan's ousting and again NO candidates from Schreibman. What the fuck has this guy been doing? Does he know what his job is?

After tonights convention I can only say that Schreibman is supporting Republicans to win in 09 or he's a complete ass who has no clue what he's doing. Republican's are in terrific shape after tonight. Expect them to be energized and win some important seats this year.

County Court

2009-04-19T19:00:00.000-04:00

Why are the candidates for county court paying any attention to this crazy judicial committee that Stuart, I mean Julian has put together.

Let's get two things out of the way, Julian being in NYC everyday gives Stuart the ability to run the party including having influence on who is going to serve on what committee ect...

Have you ever seen the movie Casino? DiNero's character says to the reporter, You kno day to day, I am the boss, I guess you can say that....well that is Stuart..the real boss of the Ulster Dem party.

Secondly, for such an open and transparent process few people know of the names the committee are considering...here they are... Mike Meranda, Jonathan Katz, Gilda Ricardi, Emanual Ninji, and Ms. Shneer.

Now getting back to my point the committee has a good chair in Joe O,Connor but after that the committee members are all cronies to Julian and Stuart...why in the world is Tom Hoffay or Stuart Fraiser put on a judicial committee over Kossover or Sennett..you know actual criminal trial lawyers!

The committee is going to request three names to the Governor with only four real candidates, Ninji apparently wants the appointment but is not willing to run...it makes no sense to me either but you don't have to pas an IQ test to work in the Poughkeepsie AG's office I assure you.

Not to mention the committee is stacked for Rochester Justice Schneer anyway, she is the candidate with the least experience but is a frontrunner...why? You guessed it, because she is a lesbian Judge from Stuart's hometown.

And who says the Governor is going to make an appointment before the convention anyway? Look how long it took to replace Bradley Sr., and look at the heat Patterson took for Gillibrand.

If I am Katz or Mirenda I would say fuck the bullshit and take it straight to the Democratic convention and also start seeking out the support of the minor party lines...deadlines are approaching, don't miss out on your future because the DEMS and their leader, Schriebman, don't have their shit together.

Just Out Of Curiosity

2009-03-28T20:33:00.001-04:00

Please participate in our polls for 2009 HOT RACES.....

Schreibman's party a bust

2009-03-27T21:16:00.002-04:00

Members of the Ulster County Democratic executive committee held a meet and greet fundraiser last week. Sources tell us that during the two hour party there were never more than 15 people attending at any time. Fishbowl confirmed from two attendees that Julian Schreibman tried his best to put on a happy face but was visibly upset by the lack of interest among party members.

This was the first Schreibman sighting in Ulster County for several weeks. Sources tell us his law practice is all but dead in Kingston and he's living in NYC during the week.

Postupack HYPE!! Wake UP DEMS!

2009-03-11T23:22:00.000-04:00

Its almost funny at the hype of how popular people think Nina Postupack is..fact is outside of Kingston no one knows who the woman is. Don't believe me go to accord or new paltz and ask 10 people who the county clerk is and see if anyone knows or cares.

The job is an important one and a powerful one and we need to send Nina and her mentor Al Spada packing. The good ol' boys of Kingston, DEMS and republicans all lined in to kiss Spada's ring at Nina's event tonight...it is sick that democrats like Jim Sottile and Tom Hoffay along with others are supporting a woman who was trained by AL SPADA! The same clerk that railed against Spitzer for his plan to give licenses to illegal aliens...does she not realize that MrSpada had been doing that for years...for a small fee of course.

We are not saying Nina was involved but there is an old line in Casino where DiNero's character is firing the slot manager : either you were in on it or were to stupid to know you were being scamed....either way your out!

VOTERS IN ULSTER COUNTY DO NOT FALL INTO THE HYPE THAT NINA IS UNBEATABLE. ITS ANOTHER SCAM BY THE GOOD OL' BOYS....ITS TIME SPADA/POSTUPACK BE TAKEN OUT OF ULSTER COUNTY FOR GOOD.

Schreibman and the Democrats are sleeping.

2009-03-06T22:16:00.007-05:00

Election 2009 is shaping up to be the year Republicans muscle their way back to relevance in Ulster County. With County Democratic Chair Julian Schreibman conceding the Clerk race to Republican Nina Postupack and now Michael Kavanagh Jr. is emerging as the strongest Republican challenger to replace retiring County Judge Mike Bruhn. Sources tell us that Kavanagh Jr. has been meeting with real Democratic Party leaders to garner support and he is impressing everyone. Endorsements from Town Republican Committees are also right around the corner for Kavanagh. Names like Weiss, Williams, and Petro are going around, former DA Don Williams would be an excellent candidate but we're not sure any Republican can beat Kavanagh. Names of retiring Democratic legislators are Sheeley, Briggs, Stoeckelar, Lomita, Decker and one of the Parete's. Republicans need only three pickups to win back control of the legislature.

Democratic names being thrown around are NOBODY for County Clerk. Kossover, Ricks, Riccardi, Davenport, Schneer, and Corrado for County Judge. It's time for Schreibman to start promoting candidates around the county. Schreibman should start by spending more time in Ulster and less in Manhattan. It takes a full time chairman to win elections, Schreibman's living in NYC during the week hurts Democrats.

Sources have told us that Schreibman approached Postupack and Republican leaders about a cross endorsement deal and were rebuffed. Schreibman was told that Nina will not be running on the Democratic line in 09. This shows how confident the Republicans are and how much the Democrats have fallen in the 6 plus months Schreibman has been steering the ship. Financials also paint a grim picture for Democrats. In the latest reporting period, the only money Democrats raised was a puny $2000 loan that Treasurer Ian Brody contributed. Schreibman has work to do, if he continues to sleep it will be a long year for Democrats.

When we say real Democratic leaders who have met with or are meeting with Kavanagh Jr. we mean Hein, VanBlarcum, Auerbach, Kirschner, Parete, Zweben, O'Connor and several deep pocketed donors.

We will analyze legislative races another day.

And Now Endorsement #2 Kossover for County Court

2009-02-24T18:50:00.003-05:00

It was announced today what everyone already knew, County Court Judge J. Micheal Bruhn is retiring the bench after nearly 30 years of service, we wish him the best.

There will be a lot of people running for this post, Wendy Ricks, Don Williams, John Biesel all immediately come to mind and I am sure a lot of town justices will throw their name in as well.

With that being said the Fishbowl strongly throws it's support behind Democrat and U.C. Public Defender Andrew Kossover. Mr. Kossover
is a well seasoned attorney with extensive knowledge of the legal system and is the most qualified to be our next County Court Judge.

KOSSOVER BIO -

Andrew Kossover is a partner in Kossover Law Offices. Mr. Kossover attended SUNY Buffalo and graduated from Vermont Law School in 1977. He immediately began the practice of law under the auspices of the Criminal Defense Division of the Legal Aid Society of New York.

Mr. Kossover is also the former law clerk for then Ulster County Family Court Judge Karen K. Peters. In 1984, Mr. Kossover relocated from New York City to the Hudson River Valley. He was appointed by former Governor Mario Cuomo as a member of the Board of Visitors of the Hudson River Psychiatric Center. Mr. Kossover is also a member of the adjunct faculty at the State University of New York at New Paltz where he teaches such courses as Criminal Law, and Introduction to Law. Mr. Kossover is also a member of the Committee on Character and Fitness for the Third Judicial District.

Mr. Kossover also currently serves as Vice President of the Ulster County Bar Association. Mr. Kossover's practice is predominantly litigation, including personal injury and criminal defense. He regularly receives litigation cases on a referral basis from other attorneys. Mr. Kossover is admitted to practice in all New York State Courts and the Federal Courts of the Northern, Southern and Eastern Districts.

Areas of Practice
Criminal Defense
Personal Injury
Litigation
Bar Admissions
New York
U.S. District Court Southern District of New York
U.S. District Court Eastern District of New York
U.S. District Court Northern District of New York
Education
Vermont Law School, South Royalton, Vermont, 1977
Professional Associations and Memberships
Ulster County Bar Association Vice President
Ulster County Criminal Justice Council (Legislative Appointment)
Ulster County Board of Cooperative Education Advisory Board Member
Appellate Division, Third Judicial Department, Committee on Character and Fitness Member
New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NYSACDL)Board of Directors
New York State Defenders Association- Chief Public Defender Ulster County
New York State Bar Association- Criminal Justice Section Member
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)Member

Terry Bernardo for UC Legislature

2009-02-22T23:51:00.002-05:00

TERRY BERNARDO PROFILE :

Education :

-M.B.A., Drexel University

- B.A. in Finance from University of Maryland

Experiance :

- Owner of Skate Time 209 in Accord, NY

-Owner of Pilates at the Bungalo

-former hotel exec in A.C. and Manhattan...working for major hotel chains including the Sands, Sheraton, and the Hilton

We know the fishbowl has not been updated in a few weeks and we apologize and hope to have regular updates in the future.

With that being said we are ready to make our first endorsement for the 2009 election season and we endorse Terry Bernardo for UC County legislature.

More so we feel Terry should probably be cross endorsed for her legislative seat. It's really a win win situation for democrats, with Mary Shealy and jumping Joe S calling it quits there are going to be openings and Mrs.Bernardo came within a few dozen votes of being elected in 07.

Terry who is clearly qualified for the office, is a local business owner in the community and active among many not for profit organizations from the Chamber of Commerce to the Friends of Historic Rochester. Also a cross puts Democrats in a great spot with her husband,new Independence boss Len Bernardo.

In short we think a cross endorsement of Terry Bernardo is a good thing but cross support or not we need Mrs.Bernardo in the UC Legislature!

WTF FUANTAS ???? AUERBACH PROVEN RIGHT

2009-01-29T00:54:00.002-05:00

Sooo let me get this straight, Jen fuentas rails against elliott Auerbach in his bid for comptroller because he voted against prevailing wage to save hundreds of jobs in Kingston, and than she goes and votes to do the exact same thing for no particular reason??? What a hypocrite!

The fishbowl knows that Fuantas, Nilsen and her crew are not the brightest, not taken seriously and we also know that the union had had nothing to do with auerbach's race being close. They can take credit all they want but the only thing that made the comptroller race close was Quigley's money.

Now don't get it twisted the fishbowl couldn't care less about this issue, we just need to point out the hypocrisy and stupidity of fuentas. Ms.Fuentas must immediately put out a press release explaining her flip flop. The fish bowl has prepared one for her:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

I would like to take this opertunity to appligize to Elliott Auerbach. You see what took elliott 10 minutes to figure out, took me almost 2 years! The reason for this is that I simply am not on the same level as Auerbach and should not be held to the same standard. That is why he is the comptroller and
I am a trouble maker that likes to think I am more important than I really am.

Sorry :( Jen fuentas HVLF

UPDATE Sinagra elected GOP boss city gop boss odds

2009-01-27T16:19:00.003-05:00

So Jean Jacobs will be ousted tonight as Chair of the Ulster County Republican Committee but who will replace her??

We have the betting odds

Mike Bruhn, Jr 2:1 *and the endorsed candidate of the U.C Fishbowl
Tony Sinagra 3:1
R. Bruce McLean 3:1
Robb Kinnin 5:1
Rich Cahill 7:1
Phil Cosme 42:1
Jean Jacobs 42:1

Tech City On The Move

2009-01-21T00:56:00.002-05:00

Ulster County Executive Mike Hein, Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, US Senator Chuck Schumer and Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner joined Tech City owner Allen Ginsberg Friday, to talk about the future of the old IBM site as a green complex that would create about 3300 alternative energy jobs.

The U.C. Fishbowl was at the conference and was very impressed with the presentation. For too long tech city has been empty and plan after plan has fallen through for one reason or another, we really have a feeling that the plan set forth by Ginsberg is going to move forward.

Senator Schumer has committed to finding funding to make this a reality under the Obama stimulus package. TechCity — and the future of The Solar Energy Consortium — is a perfect example of a good, worthy green project that will create jobs and could get a boost from the economic stimulus plan, said the Senator.

Supervisor Woerner really deserves a lot of credit for his commitment to not just filling Tech City with the first offer that comes around, but for sticking to his guns and supporting the right project, for the town. There is no questions that all residents of the town of Ulster and of Ulster County will benefit as a result of this project. I think we also should give credit to Mike Hein, who has hit the ground running and also committed to making this plan a reality.

2009-01-19T19:46:00.001-05:00

Has anyone ever witnessed Lisa Lamponelli and Sue Zimet in the same room together? Maybe they are the same ugly person.

2009-01-05T22:07:00.001-05:00

Please join us

Sunday, January 25^th, 2009

4 pm – 7 pm

at the Hillside Manor

for a dinner to honor

JOHN PARETE

On the Occasion of

His retirement as

Chair of the Ulster County Democratic Committee

Democratic Commissioner of Elections

Hors d’ oeuvres, Steak and Shrimp Dinner

with Cash Bar

Donation $50.00 per person

RSVP to: vicwork@ulster.net

Or call (845) 863-6311 by January 16th

If you would like to be on the host committee, please advise. Your contribution will include a gift for John and his wife Barbara.

Hillside Manor is on Route 32 South of the City of Kingston

For directions please call.

Rumors, Rumors, Rumors

2009-01-04T13:58:00.020-05:00

Rumors are flying, we've confirmed some and are not sure about others. Here's the list.

1) There will be a second retirement from the legislature in the very near future. We guess one of three legislators. Mary Sheeley, recently appointed temporary Village Manager of Ellenville. Sheeley replaces Elliott Auerbach and may be looking to fill position permanently. Others could be Peter Loughran, he finally found a job or Sue Zimet. Zimet has been in Albany since her crushing Senate defeat two years ago looking for anything that pays. Rumor is Albany Democrats want nothing to do with her.

2) Democratic boss Julian Schreibman is working in NYC 3-4 days a week and has told friends he is only available for meetings Saturday, Sunday and Mondays. Fishbowl was told by an Executive Committee member in the know. Frustrated Democrats are miffed to have a part time party leader.

3) Democratic HQ will close shortly. Refer to #2. Screibman can not raise money.

4) Legislative Chairman Dave Donaldson's wife was laid off from her job and he's hounding everyone in county government trying to find her a job. The Chairman's confidential secretary job is opening up. Will Donaldson put her there? This would be political suicide for Democrats come November.

5) Julian Schreibman is supporting a non-Democrat for vacant District 3 seat. We're told Schreibman wants John Nilsen because it will cement labors support for Democrats.

A+ District Attorney.. Really, Franky?

2008-12-26T14:18:00.002-05:00

By most all accounts District Attorney Holley Carnright has been an absent District Attorney since taking office almost a year ago. Many go far as to say (and we agree) that Holley Carnirght has done nothing more than sit at Don Williams' desk, doing nothing to establish himself as Ulster County's District Attorney. Then of course there are the many fumbles that have taken place under his watch this past year, so we were more than a little surprised in the Saugerties Times to read a glowing report by Frank Dart rating Carnright's performance as A+!

There is a great segment on SNL done by Seth Myers and Amy Pholler called REALLY? It goes after people that say and do stupid things,this ones for you Frank...

REALLY? UC FISHBOWL EDITION

So you think Holley Carnirght is doing an a+ job huh?

REALLY, Frank? Everything is just great.. you could of given Holley any rating but you felt strongly about an A+. Not an A, that was not good enough or even an A- but an A+ ... Really? Frank, Really?

The same A+ DA that fudged the KHS Sex scandal two months after taking office?

Really, Frank? Really?

The same A+ DA that failed to indict a SINGLE person in the Ulster County Jail Fiasco, and you are the chair of the Criminal justice committee??

Really Frank? Really?

The same A+ DA that refused to even look at launching an investigation into State Senator Malcolm Smith after he practically solicited bribes on the DA's home turf?

Really, Frank, Really?

The same A+ that has done nothing but ask the County legislature for more money and pay raises since taking office?

Really Frank Really?

The same A+ DA that admits in the Saugerties Times that Ulster County residents are not safer since he took office?

ALL A + STUFF FRANK? REALLY?

UC Fishbowl 2009 Predictions

2008-12-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

Len Bernardo is elected Independence party boss and becomes a major player in both GOP and Dem circles. (While we supported Hein, Bernardo is a good guy and we wish him the best)

The race for Ulster County District Attorney gets a very early start when a former candidate steps up to the plate and becomes an immediate front runner.

The Ulster County legislature stays solidly Democratic and while there are some losses, there are also some pick ups and the majority stays about the same.

Andrew Cuomo is appointed to the US Senate, Vince Bradley launches bid for NYS AG but loses in the primary to a liberal that no one knows.

Jim Quilgey announces that he is running for Supervisor of the town of Ulster --- Kevin Costello calls and reminds him how that worked out for him---

Nina Postupack runs unopposed for Ulster County Clerk ---Jonathan Sennett and Elliott Auerbach breath a sign of relief and start raising money for their respective campaigns.

In exchange for all of his hard work on the Hein campaign, Allan Lomita is rewarded with a job by Mike Hein -- Ambassador to Green County.

Sue Zimet announces she is retiring from Ulster County Politics...alright, that's not a prediction, just a wish!

Have a Happy New Year!!!

Kraft Out!!!!!

2008-12-19T06:46:00.003-05:00

It's official, Pete Kraft submitted his resignation from the Ulster County Legislature effective January 2009. The jockeying for this coveted seat will begin immediately.

As we start hearing names of replacements we'll update blog. Positions like this rarely become vacant. Whomever wins the appointment should have little trouble defending the seat in this Democratic leaning area.

Ulster County Fishbowl is the place to find breaking news. We called Kraft's resignation last week.

We'd like to wish everyone a happy holiday.

Republicans decide not to challenge Dems in 2009

2008-12-14T19:44:00.010-05:00

Republicans kicked off the 2009 election cycle by having to climb out of a deep hole. The re-election of Glen Noonan as minority leader sends a message they are not serious about gaining control of the legislature. Glen is a long time member of the legislature and is an example of everything wrong in Ulster County.

This move will most certainly hurt recruitment of candidates and gives voters no reason to vote Democrats out of office. Just two short years ago Noonan was in jeopardy of losing his seat. With the retirement of Tracy Bartels, Noonan was able to win with lite weight running mates Kathy Terezi and Ken (just out of diapers) Ronk. If Bartels returns next year Ronk will be the youngest ever elected (2007) and the youngest ever to lose (2009). Something he could tell his grand kids.

Anyone who is awake in Ulster County knows the Republicans have a weak group of legislators. What surprises us is that with such an important election coming up they took a leap backwards. Santa couldn't have given Democrats a better present.

Guy Kempe for Legislator

2008-12-10T12:01:00.002-05:00

I think it's pretty well known that the staff at the U.C. Fishbowl are not fans of Legislator Sue Zimet, we feel she is incompetent, self centered and does not properly represent her constituents. To put it bluntly, it's time for her to go.

Who to replace her?

Luckily for whomever has the task of replacing Zimet, they will not have big shoes to fill. Zimet has done nothing for the last four years but talk about how great she is and complain how everyone is out to get her.

We have thought long and hard about who is the best for that district and have come up with two great candidates that will serve the Village and Town of New Paltz the way they deserve to be represented. At this point we will talk about one of those potential candidates, Guy Kempe.

Guy Kempe, is currently the director of community development for RUPCO and extremely community minded and has strong ties to his hometown of New Paltz.

Mr. Kempe also is very active politically, a former member of the New Platz Democratic committee and current member of the executive board of the Working Families party, he is abreast of all the issues going on in the county and is ready to get to work serving New Paltz residents on day one----something many residents have not had in over 4 years :(

We are proud at the Fish Bowl to start the Draft Guy Kempe for County Legislature movement and we look forward to another name surfacing in the coming months.

Legislator to resign seat.

2008-12-07T21:33:00.006-05:00

According to sources, Legislator Pete Kraft told several members of the Democratic Party last week that he will be resigning his seat effective January 1st. Kraft has not been seen much the past year and his work commitments finally forced him to leave office.

Kraft's seat, which covers Hurley, Olive and Marbletown will be well sought after by Democrats. It's a reliably Democratic seat and the opportunity to run with the Parete's should bring quality candidates into the fold. We hear that Rob Parete is considering a challenge to Nina Postupack, we believe it's rumor but will keep our ears open.

Lets handicap Krafts possible successors. Topping the list would be Dan Ahouse or Roy Hochburg. Both are Hurley guys and would be top tier candidates. Perennial candidate Mike Shultis will throw his name in the ring. Linda Bertone switched back to Democratic and she might mount a comeback. We would have to eliminate Shultis and Bertone, the Hurley Democratic Committee will likely look for a new face. Olive and Marbletown may be wild cards. While we can't think of any candidates from those areas some may challenge for the seat.

While we wait to see who emerges for the open seat, one has to wonder how long the Parete's have known about this. Have they spoken to potential replacements? Is the new legislator a done deal? Stay tuned.

Thoughts From the Fishbowl

2008-11-28T15:02:00.005-05:00

What is with this Erin Quinn broad? This amateur New Paltz times writer really is something else. We hear Erin uses her articles to go after Zimet's political enemies, first Sennett and now Brittany Turner. In a recent article in the Sunday NY Times regarding the NP town board race, Quinn went after Turner's DWI, which had no relevance to the story at hand but the attack on Britt did make Zimet all wet and wild (yuck)! Why the NY Times allowed Quinn to correspond for them is still a mystery to us. I mean really what ever happened to responsible journalism that tries to be remotely fair and even handed?

Speaking of Sue Zimet we hear this blog was mentioned at a Criminal Justice committee meeting last week after Zimet whined over the treatment she has received on this blog. Zimet was just trying to cover the comments that she made against the fine hard working members of the URGENT task force. Zimet's beef was that her comments were leaked to this blog by someone on that committee....umm, it's a public meeting, you making a political gaff is not privileged, so think twice before you attack the police or make asinine comments. We can't wait until someone primaries Zimet, word on the street is a team has already been formed.

We are happy to see that Elliott Auerbach has taken a small lead in the race for County Comptroller and we hope that it holds up.

Moving to the City of Kingston what is going on with council Democrats? Does loyalty mean nothing to them? Of course we speak of the Democratic Aldermen throwing Mayor Jim Sottile under the bus during the budget process these past few months. Funny last year, they all had their hand out asking him for money and support for their respective campaigns. Jim Sottile is the leader of their party and deserves their support, it's disgraceful to watch these guys attack him to score a few points in the Daily Disappointment. It's called leadership, my friend, man up like Sottile has and show some.

Young Dems in Ulster County ?????

2008-11-16T13:54:00.009-05:00

What is going on with the Young Democrats in Ulster County? In a year where youth was mobilized all over the country, here in Ulster County it was dismal at best. That was thanks to the leadership of Shannon Schreibman and crew.

Under Schreibman's leadership, the Ulster Young Dems really took a nose dive and they are now without a chair or any real leadership, which is again a shame because there were some great people involved.

The first thing that needs to be done is reorganizing and electing a new chair, Jay Mahler, Jeremy Blaber and Stefanie West immediately come to mind as possible people that can do the job effectively. While a Mahler or Blaber chairmanship is tempting we think Stefanie West, of New Paltz is the person at this time to do the job.

Stefanie is currently the vice-chair of the YD's and like Blaber and Mahler, a member of the Ulster County Democratic committee. Again, any one of them would do a credible job but we feel Stefanie is in a position to move the organization forward and make it one that will be active and EFFECTIVE in local elections. Her work on behalf of Sennett, Hein and Auerbach gives her the necessary experience to that.

No matter who gets in office the UC Young Dems need to something with the age limit, while, it's been awhile since the staff at the UC Fishbowl has been eligible to be considered a "young Dem", word on the street is if we hold off in a few years we may be eligible!!! It seems that every time Shannon and Julian have a birthday, the age to be a young Dem keeps going up! Everywhere in NYS it's 30, in Ulster County 39...the same age as Julian and Shannon. We hear soon that Senator Byrd will be appointed for member outreach.

REDUX-- Zimet at it Again

2008-11-15T17:30:00.006-05:00

Have you ever heard of a group of people that are not happy unless they are miserable? Meet the queen of that Village, Ms. Susan Zimet as well as her husband Steve Auerbach who can only be described as the Village's idiot.

Zimet is notorious for her attacks against her political enemies, the smear campaign against John Parete and Mike Hein come to mind almost immediately and now she continues her assault against former DA candidate Jonathan Sennett. Her husband, the Village idiot, also seems to be a big telephone tough guy from the living room of the over priced house he has for sale.

The difference between Parete and Hein is that Sennett has been nothing but nice to Ms.Zimet, giving her thousands of dollars on her embarrassing bid for the state Senate and even supporting her when she ran for Executive. While others stood on the sidelines and laughed at Zimet's joke of a campaign, the Sennett family stood there with her out of pure loyalty...to most people that is important.

So we were a little taken back to read the New Paltz Times this week and find that Zimet blames everything wrong with the New Paltz committee on Sennett and claims that he has torn the party apart.WHAT??? Nah, Zimet that would be your chair who mysteriously lost the paperwork on a candidate neither one of you supported. Zimet's husband takes the craziness to another level. After Sennett donated hours of time to try and fix the deliberate error, Steve says that Jon should not be paid for his work and compares what Jon did to stuffing envelopes and making phone calls for candidates.

Hmmmmmmmm, I did not know it cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to be educated to fold envelopes these days. The comments are beyond insulting! Not surprisingly, Steve acted just like his wife does when confronted on something, quiting the committee....good riddance.

The bigger part of this story is just the pattern of behavior on Zimet's part of being a scumbag. How can someone really be so disloyal and have absolutely zero integrity...the staff at Ulster Fishbowl are truly amazed but not at all surprised by Zimet.

Another outrageous Susan Zimet attack.

2008-11-13T21:46:00.013-05:00

With her latest accusation, loudmouth legislator Susan Zimet continues to show her stupidity.

Sources tell us that a recent meeting attended by Ulster County Sheriff Paul VanBlarcum, District Attorney Holly Carnright, and loudmouth Zimet. Sue made some serious for the record statements about Ulster County's law enforcement officials and officers. Zimet told her audience that New Paltz Police and the Ulster County Sheriff's Office (URGENT team) are allowing drug sales to take place directly in front of the New Paltz police station. We are told Susan said that high level people in the Sheriff's office and New Paltz police department are directing officers to allow drug sales and not arrest anyone. Zimet said illegal drug sales are happening in broad daylight and police are looking the other way.

We did a little research and found that Ms. Zimet was opposed to the hiring of the new Police Chief in NP and is trying to have him ousted. There is a power struggle between Legislator Zimet and New Paltz Supervisor Toni Hokenson.

One has to really question the mental fitness of a public official when they make these sort of accusations against others with absolutely no proof.

We here at the Fishbowl appreciate the hard work of the law enforcement community and we resent the big mouth's accusations against Sheriff VanBlarcum and the men and women of his department and those who work for the New Paltz PD.

Zimet--go after someone else to score your political points.

Will Julian Be Smart for 09 and focus on Sennett's 2011 Bid?

2008-11-10T22:48:00.003-05:00

I know that we are barley over this past election but as we look ahead to 2009 what will Julian do in the County Clerk's race? Nina Postupack is almost a lock for reelection and should probably switch parties and be cross endorsed for another term but will Julian, the clown prince of the radical left go for it? We doubt it and it's a shame, Postupack is not a bad clerk and if we don't play our cards right Dems will have a lot to lose.

Next year we have the legislature up, and if Uncle Al Spada feels Postupack is in trouble he will throw a ton of money in the race and it may cost Dems the legislature.

Another benefit of a cross endorsement is that if we do not have a county wide campaign to worry about it can give us a head start on a county-wide campaign the Dems CAN and WILL win. Of course, I speak of the office of District Attorney and it will give our next DA, Jonathan Sennett an opportunity to get a head start on fundraising and allow him to trample over the very vulnerable Holley Carnright in 2011.

Now, the staff at the Fishbowl realize that the party is bigger than one person and there should not be special favors given for specific people but the benefit of cross endorsing is much bigger than just Jon Sennett and the DA's race. Unless Dems put up a candidate like Rich Parete or Brian Cahill for county clerk, they will lose, which hurts them in future races and in the local races that will take place next year.

Julian is in a tough spot, if he runs a Sue Zimet candidate and loses the clerk race and legislature, he will be out on his ear next year but if he cross endorses, the radical left that put him in office will turn on him. Will he stand up and show leadership or will he pander to people who really have no clue about politics, only time will tell.

Dumbest post election comment of 2008.

2008-11-06T20:58:00.012-05:00

Less than 48 hours after the polls closed we have one of the most ridiculous post election comments ever, by none other than Democratic Chairman Julian Schreibman. In today's Kingston Freeman he asses the Comptroller's election results and says "what we have is essentially a tie". No Julian, you have a 7000 voter enrollment edge, you had super popular President-Elect Obama, more popular Maurice Hinchey, and Kevin Cahill leading the ticket. Plus, most Republicans despise their current leader George Bush. If you think your Comptroller candidate being 600 votes behind is "essentially a tie" then I feel sorry for the Democratic Party in Ulster County.

Jim Quigly's now probable victory opens the door for Republicans in the next election and many more. It was a lost opportunity for Democrats. Not only do Republicans have confidence in getting out the vote and winning. Quigly will make a name for himself on Fair Street and is able to finance any other office he desires. A loss for Auerbach will have a lasting effect in Ulster County politics.

Stupid comments from Schreibman don't help.

Outcome of Tuesday Election--Our Predictions

2008-11-01T09:09:00.006-04:00

I have to say I am happy that election season is ending. Presidential candidates have been campaigning for nearly two years. Our predictions will not make everyone happy but we are fairly confident that we will get it correct.

President---Obama wins 2-1 in Ulster County

Congress--Hinchey also by 2-1

Assembly--All incumbents win--Cahill 2-1, Kirwin 55-45, and Lopez is unopposed. Kirwin may lose Ulster County section of district but we believe he will hang on. His opponent was in trouble last year and Kirwin has not brought that up. This tells us that Kirwin's polling numbers are fine.

Senate--Bonacic breezes in like last year. Larkin wins but the Obama effect will make this closer. We think 55-45.

State Supreme Court--McGrath wins Ulster County by around 57-43. Judge Carpinello has support from both sides but Obama's coattails will help everyone.

Executive--Both candidates have been visible the past several months. Neither has run a particularly good race and are lucky there were no primaries, because neither would have survived. The race is going to be won by Mike Hein and I'd say it will be 60-40. Again the Obama effect will be to much to overcome for Bernardo.

Comptroller--For both parties this is the only race that could go either way. We predict an Auerbach win with about 55% of the vote. I know some are going to jump up and down screaming at this, but we believe the Obama wave will sweep Auerbach into office. Quigley has better credentials and would be all over the Democrats (which is good) making sure each penny was spent wisely. But it is hard for us to see any non incumbent Republican winning. If Quigley returns next time we could expect a different outcome.

The news is not all that glum for Republicans. They ran credible campaigns in an extremely tough environment for them. They will be disappointed election night but the groundwork has been laid for the 2009 election cycle.

When we say "09" cycle we feel that Republicans have shown they are alive in Ulster County. It will be nearly impossible to beat Nina Postupack next year and with the right candidates Republicans will have a good shot at taking over legislature.

Enough for today. Best of luck to all Tuesday.

Will someone find Pete Loughran a job!!! Please

2008-10-25T16:39:00.020-04:00

Even though he lives at home with his mother, Peter Loughran apparently can't survive on his legislator salary. The man dubbed "chronically underemployed" by Ulster Publishing's Hugh Reynolds is so desperate for a job that he is now targeting Commissioner of Jurors Richard Mathews position. The chatter in Kingston is after his recent failed attempt at Board of Elections, Loughran is telling everyone that he deserves a patronage job because he has paid his dues to the Democratic Party.

The information we have is the Juror job is coming up for appointment. Loughran and fellow Kingston Democrat Dave Donaldson are working on a plan to oust Mathews. Mathews job is a four year term appointed by Chairman of the Legislature, County Court Judge, and longest serving Ulster County Supreme Court Judge, i.e. Karen Peters. With Donaldson a Democrat and County Judge Michael Bruhn a Republican it would come down to Judge Peters to decide appointment. Loughran is telling anyone that will listen that Donaldson is putting "pressure" on Peters to back him. We sincerely hope Judge Peters will not succumb to pressure and will stay with Richard Mathews. We are unsure if the pick will shift to Executive from Chairman after January 1st. If the decision goes to new Executive then Mathews job is safe. Hein and Bernardo would likely support Mathews.

We will keep you apprised of any new developments.

The Wicked Witch of Ulster County Politics

2008-10-22T11:24:00.017-04:00

A few emails written by Ulster County Democratic Chairman Julian Schreibman's wife Shannon to Democratic supporters has been circulating the internet the last few days. I've read them and all I can say is WOW, where does she park her broom? This woman is mad, crazy, nuts and a whole lot more. It is a matter of time before the Schreibman's turn everyone in Ulster County off.

Here's the email to a Marbletown volunteer.

Judy, unless a ton of signs went up last night, this is an exaggeration. You know I have sent multiple emails about lawn signs. I just delivered a bunch of signs to people yesterday. I'm delivering more signs tonight. I can look up Bernard Carney's number, but since you know him well enough to call him "Bernie" -- why don't you ask him to put up signs?

IN GENERAL, I am SICK AND TIRED of the DISRESPECTFUL tone you take with me. IT REALLY TURNS ME OFF. And your mass communications about the Marbletown Committee are OUT OF LINE and I AM SICK OF IT.

I ALSO DONT LIKE THE WAY YOU RANDOMLY CAPITALIZE WORDS --- IT LOOKS LIKE YOU ARE ARE EITHER CRAZY OR SHOUTING ALL THE TIME

Another:

Your inability to change when spoken to about it is a reflection of you.

I will not be part of any attempt to make you look as if you care about the Democratic party, your behavior over the past two years says otherwise.

Is the goal of Shannon to have everyone quite the Democratic Party? We also have some new information that we are working on regarding Shannon Schreibman's stacking her town committee by appointing Ben Shor to a position even though he attacked a woman at a Democratic meeting last year and was forced to resign. We'll update that soon.

Where is Julian Schreibman hiding? HELP OUT!!!

2008-10-16T22:05:00.015-04:00

It's sad to see Mike Hein hanging by his ankles as Republican party leaders relentlessly attack him from all sides. Mike needs and deserves help from his party chairman, but where is Julian? Is Julian in over his head? Does he understand his job? Is he spending to much time working in New York City? John Parete would have been out front, standing side by side working for and protecting his candidate. We know Julian has supported Sue Zimet and Dave Donaldson all along but please get out and support the Democrats choice.

The good news for Mike and Elliott is that there will be a tidal wave riding through Ulster County and all Democrats are going to be sworn in January 1st, 2009. What should be a concern to Democrats is what support can their nominee for County Clerk expect next year? How does he recruit legislative and town candidates when he won't even support candidates for such important offices this year. Democrats are already complaining about Julian's erratic behavior. I guess the honeymoon is over.

Investigation of new Democratic Chairman?

2008-10-13T21:40:00.008-04:00

Wow, lots of talk around town of investigations. Sources tell us that Albany may be investigating Ulster County's indictment of Harvey Sleight for his part in the UC jail debacle. Former Assistant District Attorney Julian Schreibman indicted Harvey Sleight even though the statue of limitations had run out. It appears that Albany is not happy about it and there may have been some ethics violations. While the heat may come down on the current DA, in our opinion the question of ethics falls squarely on the shoulders of the prosecutor who was in with the Grand Jury. We also hear that Legislator Frank Dart has complained that he has been told the Grand Jury wanted to indict 3 others for the jail mess but were not allowed by Mr. Schreibman. Julian was campaigning for Democratic Chairman around the same time the investigation wrapped up. Was Julian playing politics with the jail investigation?

Another well known rumor is that Julian's new law practice on Wall Street has been suffering severely from a lack of business. Well placed insiders in the new Democratic leadership tell us that because of the lack of business he is working in Manhattan three days a week. Is this the reason Julian wants to change the day of the Executive Committee meetings from the longstanding Wednesdays to Mondays?

ZIMET: Do as I say, Not as I Do

2008-10-10T18:41:00.006-04:00

There is a big controversy brewing in the town of New Paltz over a town board seat up for election this year. Corrine Nyquist failed to file the paper work on time for a candidate that won the Democratic caucus in New Paltz and the candidate was thrown off the ballot. Some people have suggested that it was done purposely but that is neither here nor there. After the incident took place, Jonathan Sennett, a Kingston lawyer and New Paltz committee member, filed an article 78 and tried to get the candidate back on the ballot, with no success, the following is an excerpt from this weeks New Paltz Times:

"Basically, the statute is very clear cut," Sennett said. "It states that filing a nominating petition late is a fatal defect. Judge Work felt constrained by the statute -- regardless if the lateness was due to human or clerical error, and she denied our request."

Sennett's argument, in a nutshell, was that the two-day delay of the nominating certificate did not prejudice the integrity of the electoral process, in light of the fact that there is no other candidate on any other ballot line for this position.

"We argued that justice and voters were better served by remedying the error and placing Mr. Logan back on the ballot, as he was duly nominated at the Democratic Caucus," Sennett said. But the argument failed against the statute.

HERE IS WHERE IT GETS INTERESTING

Ms. Nyquest offers her resignation and Jonathan Sennett, the Vice-Chair, is asked by a few people to run for chair. Well when losing State Senate candidate, losing exec candidate and left wing nutcase Susan Zimet finds out Sennett is being considered, she immediately throws her name in and says she is going to run.

Are you shitting me?

Now put aside the fact that Mr. Sennett gave Zimet thousands of dollars in her failed bid for State Senate and was loyal to her until she stabbed him in the back because Mr.Sennett wanted to support Mike Hein for County Exec over her last minute candidate. But is this not the same woman that launched a jihad against John Parete, saying that as a county official and party leader there was a clear conflict of interest?????????

Zimet, the same woman that screamed from the rooftops that this ethics bill she proposed was something she believed in with all of her black heart and it had nothing to do with politics. The same Zimet that even said that she would've proposed the ethics law, otherwise known as the unethical law, even if it effected her own husband??

Now, the staff at the Fishbowl partly believe that part, there is no doubt in our mind that she would throw her husband, mother or even her own children under the bus if it furthered her own political agenda.

Zimet of course backed out like she always does when she faces any sort of opposition but not before having her husband write a letter to the New Paltz committee saying that Mr. Sennett was not entitled to receive any money for the work he did on behalf of the New Paltz committee and that as committee treasure, it would be a cold day in hell before I write a check to Jonathan Sennett. Keep in mind the money was just for filing fees and other expenses that Mr. Sennett had no control over. What a class act those Zimet's are.

Expect Zimet to face a strong primary next year in her bid for reelection. The people of Ulster County deserve better.

Supervisor's screwed by Bischoff!!!

2008-10-10T13:09:00.000-04:00

Ulster County Legislator Gary Bischoff's incompetence screws up town budget's all over Ulster County. A resolution that was pushed by Gary Bischoff authorizes the county to charge back the towns and the City of Kingston for expenses incurred by the Board of Elections. This has resulted in $1.25 million of County costs being shifted to municipalities. The amount is double what Bischoff had told Supervisor's to expect and worse yet, he released the numbers to towns after some had already announced their tentative budgets.

Mr. Bischoff is well known for standing up and criticizing State and Federal representatives for pushing unfunded mandates. In a desperate measure Bischoff would rather let the towns get heat for their budgets than do what Dutchess County did and incur the costs of elections.

Looking at Legislator Bischoff's responsibility as Chairman of the Laws and Rules Committee it says he is only responsible for one county department, Board of Elections. How in the world can a legislator with such little responsibility screw this up so bad? Gary has a reputation of being underhanded and this clearly confirms our suspicion.

Welcome to U.C. Political Fishbowl

2008-10-08T21:38:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Ulster County's newest political blog. We promise you'll get all the important news and information right here first. Our team will keep you up to date of what is going on in our backyard. We will discuss politics at all levels, State, County, and Towns.

We will call it like it is, no holding back. If you can't handle the truth then don't bother coming back.