We routinely report on the activities of countless community leaders. Along the way, we have been impressed by the dedication of many we have met, but none more so than Pat Dolan, who died last week.
Dolan, 72, was struck and killed by a car en route to a transportation meeting. It only seems fitting that in her last act she was on her way to a meeting that she hoped would improve the quality of life for those who live and work in Queens.
In the days following her death, much was made of the fact that Dolan did not drive and crusaded for pedestrian safety. Her death was called the “irony of ironies.”
But Dolan was more than just a transportation activist and her work touched nearly every aspect of life in Queens.
In remembering this tireless activist, Borough President Helen Marshall, said, “Last night, the people of Queens lost a terrific and tireless leader who fought with knowledge and passion for libraries, senior citizens, parks, children, transportation safety and every other issue that affects all of us.”
Queens is a better place because of the dedication of Dolan.
Wills Comes Clean
It is about time, Councilman. Two weeks ago, City Councilman Ruben Wills took care of a legal matter that he waited 15 years to resolve. Wills went to Manhattan Criminal Court to plead guilty to breaking into and stealing a fan and track lighting from a firm that had allegedly fired him.
It is not clear whether Wills acted out of fear that his past was coming back to haunt him or because his conscience was bothering him. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges, paid restitution and has agreed to do three days of community service.
“Council Member Wills has accepted responsibility today for conduct which occurred when he was a young man,” his office said in a statement.
But he was not that young. He was 25 at the time of the crimes and he should have settled this a long time ago.
Perhaps better late than never.
