By Dee Richard
On Monday, the Queens Lesbian and Gay Democratic Club had a Queens−wide “meet the candidates forum” for City Council at St. Marks Episcopal Church in Jackson Heights. I don’t know how many were invited, but 18 showed up that I know of.
These were candidates from the 19th, 21st, 23rd, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th districts, as well as a surprise drop−in by Councilman John Liu, who either wasn’t able to make the last meeting or time ran out before it was his turn to speak. But John was happy to drop by and explain all his plans for a more effective comptroller’s office should. He’d be lucky enough to get the position.
Again, I was quite impressed by the quality of candidates we have in Queens, despite the fact it seems we also have our share of rascals, but you have to admit they’re lovable, charming rascals. Besides, they’re our Queens brands of rascals. Perhaps well−intended, but definitely misguided. Does that make them bad people? Remember the old saying: to err is human, to forgive divine.
Come to think of it, how many divine politicos have we come across lately — or for that matter, how many human ones have also crossed our paths in the recent past? It seems we exist in a mostly dog eat dog society — politically speaking that is.
The Jefferson Democratic Club of Flushing, at its May meeting Thursday, also held a meet the candidates night. This one was for the public advocate’s slot.
The candidates, who were invited to speak and also accepted the invitations, in alphabetical order were Bill DeBlasio, Councilman Eric Gioia, Mark Green and Norman Siegel.
Gioa called at the last minute to inform the group that his schedule was so tight that he didn’t want to promise to attend and then not be able to. Instead, he sent his deputy chief of staff, a pleasant young man named Jordan, to make his apologies and respectfully ask for another opportunity to speak. Eric not only did the right, considerate thing, but also the politically correct thing. Way to go, Eric!
Siegel arrived at 9:15 p.m. He was the only speaker to arrive. It worked out well for both Norman and the members, as it gave him a lot more time to make his case as to why he would make the best public advocate. Over the years, I met Siegel numerous times and had categorized him as a pit bull civil rights lawyer.
Thursday night, however, showed me an entirely different Siegel. Would you believe a warm and fuzzy side? While making his pitch, he addressed all the issues satisfactorily and his foresight as to what the public advocate slot could and should be were most impressive. I found myself nodding in agreement with most of his statements. In fact, he came across as a concerned, caring, logical thinker who hasn’t only given much thought to the position, but researched it as well.
As for the missing “Rover Boys,” DeBlasio and Green, anything can happen as to why you can’t keep your commitment, but there’s no reason why either you or a member of your staff can’t call, apologize and request a rescheduling. Not exactly an endorsement of responsibility and respect.
May has been an interesting month. Last week, I was fascinated by Dick Morris and this week I was captivated by Norman Siegel. Who will next week bring?
Also on Thursday, the Whitestone and Auburndale Republican clubs held a campaign “Kick−off Kegger” at the GOP headquarters for Council Candidate Dan Halloran. Of course, by the time I got there, they were packing up to go home as the Jefferson club meeting ran late. From bits and pieces, I was able to gather it was a fun party. Halloran brought his karaoke machine and entertained everyone with an apparently good singing voice.
We in Queens really do have our share of talented politicos. But again I ask, why does everything happen on Thursday nights?
Sorry to hear Joan Vogt slipped, fell and dislocated her shoulder. Feel better and get well soon, Joan. A retirement party is being planned for Joan at the Reception House in late May or early June. More details later.
Congratulations to Justin DiSanzo on becoming a daddy for the first time. What a wonderful Mother’s Day present for his wife. Good wishes to all.
That’s it for this week.
I look forward to hearing from you with information on people, parties and politics or gossip.
I like receiving your voice mails at 718−767−6484, faxes at 718−746−0066 and e−mails at deerrichard@aol.com.
Don’t forget to check out the Focus on Queens page.
Till next week, Dee.
