Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Gift Subscription

As some of you may know, the juvenile bunch in town gave me a subscription to Casino Journal.  With it comes e-mail updates and a newsletter.  Here's the article in the first newsletter I got.  Give it a serious read and try to understand the nature of the "product" of the casino industry and what it DOESN'T contribute to the life of communities. Following this article, I've included a link to a brand new piece on the Public Health effects of gambling.  How anyone could try to say that our Town's administration's decision to invite this abomination here was a good and decent one hasn't done their homework. 

""Attitudinal Loyalty and the Casino Customer

With the rapid expansion in casinos and other gaming opportunities, casinos are under a new type of pressure to make sure that their player loyalty program is both unique and effective. Loyalty programs have been around for some time now and are an integral part of a casino’s success; however recent trends indicate that the need for attitudinal loyalty is becoming more of a significant piece of player loyalty as a whole.

Loyalty has consistently been defined by the reflection of repeat user experience and/or the expression of a favorable attitude toward such a behavior. Traditionally, most casinos measure player loyalty in terms of behavioral loyalty which focuses on measuring a player’s frequency of visits, purchase behavior or the worth of the player to the brand, which essentially attributes to players spending behaviors. Attitudinal loyalty has been defined as capturing the effective and cognitive aspects of loyalty and gaining brand loyalty by investing in developing an emotional connection. Due to increased competition in the gaming industry, casinos need to integrate behavioral loyalty and attitudinal loyalty by segmenting players based on attitudinal variables, which include memorable experiences, sense of commitment, trust value, and overall satisfaction. Recent trends show the best way to retain these players is to build attitudinal loyalty by evoking emotion and establishing a sense of community within your player loyalty program.

When players join a specific loyalty program there are three benefits that will allow them to feel a sense of community. The first benefit is membership where players feel a sense of belonging. Casinos can foster this sense of belonging by offering players a unique space to socialize and share experiences through the distribution of rewards at events. Many VIP players, regardless of the programs specifics, tend to have similar experiences in regard to their routine interaction within the casino. They often frequent the same slot machines, table games, restaurants, shows and player-exclusive engagements. By holding a player-only socializing event by tier or for all players, you can foster relationships between players, which will in turn keep the conversation about a casino property prevalent, interesting and engaging. Players will begin to develop personal relationships and have a stronger sense of emotional commitment with the casino and will be less likely to switch to a competitor.

Secondly, membership allows a player to have a sense of influence—in other words, that their opinions matter. Players generally spend a valuable amount of time and money at casino properties, which in turn, establishes a sense of entitlement. They believe they deserve to be heard and should have significant input on future endeavors within the loyalty program. Casinos can engage players’ opinions by routinely reaching out for feedback that includes what type of incentives players would ideally like to receive, popular brands and products, and what type of events they find most rewarding. By showing players you value their opinions it builds a sense of loyalty.

Lastly, but most importantly, the third membership benefit is integration, incentives and creating an elite experience players desire. The more time and effort spent on these players, reinforces attitudinal variables that leave lasting impressions on a player’s perception of a property and in turn keeps them invested in a brand. Casinos must be unique and thought provoking when implementing events for players, as run-of-the-mill events will negatively impact their perception. Choosing the most impactful incentives to accompany an event will increase players worth and strengthen the connection. Standard rewards simply include giving players items with a perceived high-trophy value.

When programs implement an event along with a high-trophy value item, the perception by players is one of true value and worth, as the casino invested not only money but strategically created and implemented an engaging experience to connect with their players. During events, players are able to engage with other players, casino personnel and enjoy time with the loved ones they chose to accompany them to the event, creating an overall experience the modern day player craves."

Now read this!!!

http://the2x2project.org/gambling-public-health/

131 comments:

  1. It sounds like the industry is working on new and more effective ways to create and cultivate problem gamblers. Studies have shown that the instances of problem gambling increase the closer you live to a casino. If Capital View is built, Town residents will be able to stop-in on their way home from work and blow the money they were going to spend on milk and bread at Price Chopper, on slots or roulette. How will this benefit our community?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Exactly right, Anonymous. All you have to do is look at the "industry journal" to see what these people are all about. You really don't need the studies done by all the scholars and researchers. The gambling "industry" is a social blight which has been legitimized by our legislature and governor in search of an easy fix for years of lousy governing.

    Put into the mix the "not very bright" and greedy County and Town decision makers on both sides of the aisle, and you've got the problem that East Greenbush is now faced with. We have every right to protest and stop this blight from being perpetrated on our community. The social impact is every bit as important to consider as the the storm water run-off from all the freaking paving over they want to do on that R-B zoned land on Thompson Hill.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Take a look at the agenda for Wednesday. Standing Room Only I'd say. Better get a bigger venue for this one Keith. Don't want to violate the Open Meetings Law. You and DeF have lost control because of your inability to listen to the people from whom your civic responsibility flows. Too bad you skipped the class in 8th grade.

    ReplyDelete
  4. The Sword of the Lord and of GideonSeptember 11, 2014 at 9:55 PM

    Dear Chris (and Keith and Ed), politics in this century is about serving the public's interest. It's not about driving the bus. It's your last century mindset which has dead ended your career as a chairman. You had a chance to ride the wave to a new era, but you didn't stay in touch with reality long enough. All Feather's horses and all Feather's men (and women) can't put Chumley together again.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Dear Mr Gadfly, today's pre-board meeting was very interesting. Supr Langley seemed gentle as a declawed kitten as he actually ALLOWED residents to speak and PARTICIPATE in the meeting. Either it's the end times or he's scared stiff that he's going to be unemployment on January 2016. My bet is on the latter. His "boys" DeF, Gilbert, and Danny (who always stays just under the radar) were just as subdued as they slunk in and out barely detectable. The agenda was loaded with appointment resos that will undoubtedly remain a mystery until the 17th. The secrecy continues in stealth fashion. You're right, sir, standing room only. If they were smart, they'd sell tickets at the door to get in. Just kidding, Chris.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Seems like "Kitten" Langley has figured out he's back in the minority again.

      Delete
  6. East Greenbush takes on rezoning for casino
    Change sought from residential buffer zone
    By Kenneth C. Crowe II
    Published 10:20 pm, Thursday, September 11, 2014

    http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/East-Greenbush-takes-on-rezoning-for-casino-5749366.php

    ReplyDelete
  7. The last nine months have been a real tragedy for East Greenbush. What could have been the beginning of a real progressive time in our history was hijacked by ignorance and political "bossism." The potential was really there in January - a majority and a policy platform which had been outlined in print in the pages of the Advertiser. (For a summary, see the Post titled "This Space Available II" on this Blog published on January 20th.) Had the Chairman and the Supervisor not wandered off into the political woods of patronage, nepotism and cronyism we'd be well on our way to efficient government and tax cuts. Instead, the stage was set to become a target of the Saratoga snake oil people with their hyped promises and pots of gold at the end of the rainbow.

    After watching the "show" for the last nine months, I'm pretty much convinced that those who were calling the shots from the truck and the corner office really have no understanding or comprehension at all as to what they are up to. No vision. No self-awareness. No curiosity. No historical awareness. The perfect target for somebody who might want to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge.

    I think we've paid something in the neighborhood of $75,000 to two different CPA firms for three years worth of certified financials, with no work product to show for it. This year's budget appropriated $50,000 for new financial software, which I understand has not been purchased. Last December, the Board directed that an audit be performed on the expenditures related to the Mannix Road round-a-bout. My understanding is that this has not yet begun.

    The administration can't come to grips with the basic tools of management, and yet expects (by some magic) that the advent of a casino on Thompson Hill will make their world better. Good grief boys, just leave.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you voted any of these people in, then you have no one to blame but yourself. Voters have to be smarter about politicians and parties, and they do have to vote-both in primaries and regular elections or you get what we have. And these town officials are small potatoes anyway just doing whatever they are told to do. Go to any type of EG meeting and you see that everything has already been planned and that they are just rubberstamping!
      My first question is how does such a small voter turnout (November 2013) get to change the NYS constitution as in Proposition One. Even in Roberts Rules you have to have a quorum in order to take a vote.

      Delete
    2. I don't know if you can blame the residents who thought they were voting for the right candidates. This is not the residents fault by any means. It is our fault as a whole for not being involved more with the corruption with our town, but this casino fiasco is NOT the residents fault. I do agree, people need to wake up and vote. This is not just an EG problem, but a statewide problem as seen in the recent primaries.

      I do agree that everything seems planned and not looking good for us. I feel these upcoming resolutions and Langley's decision to speak a full sentence in a meeting (still nothing of importance) is in preparation to the backlash if we are chosen for a casino. We may not meet the economic criteria and should not by any means even be in the running for this casino. However, we have one thing only one other developer out of the 16 remaining bids has - FEATHERS! Our town board had no clue who they went to bed with on this one. If one man can single handedly land us a casino, it is this man. Good job EG, good job! And they're supposed to be "politicians", you'd think they'd know who this man was.

      Delete
    3. If indeed, the Town is chosen for a Casino, it is even more important that Langley be voted out of office. He is a man uniquely unqualified by virtual of his temperament, character and lack of intelligence to serve in office during such a significant period of change.

      Delete
  8. Gadfly- And throughout we have had no public explanation about the town financials from either the Town Comptroller, George Phillips or from the current Town Supervisor "Kitten" Langley.
    What gives?

    ReplyDelete
  9. In December, 2013 I asked for the status of our audits (my question includes addressing the "mini" audit findings of 2009, the Toski audit, the Wojeski "fix it" audit, and the annual audits that every member of the Town Board promised during their campaigns.) Usually my question is met with blank stares. 12/13 was different. Keith Langley said it "was a good question that deserved an answer" and he promised an answer in a "few weeks". Shortly after that Langley asked for a few more weeks in a private conversation and, good government advocates, myself included, we eager to wait a few weeks in anticipation of finally being able to assess the financial situation.

    Unfortunately, the audit information and or the plans for future audits were never shared. We went back to several more months of audit questions being met with with the Langley trademark blank stare.

    This Spring, in response to Councilperson Mangold's requests for financial information, Supervisor Langley promised a presentation from the auditors who have been paid to produce an audit. It was first scheduled for the July pre-Board meeting but canceled because Comptroller Phillips was unavailable on that date. It was then scheduled for the August pre-Board meeting but one staff person from one of the audit firms was unavailable on that date. At both Town Board meetings (certain residents are not allowed to speak at pre-Board) I pointed out that it is budget development time and the absence of any one staff person should not hold up critical work. You guessed it: blank stare.

    At last night's pre-Board meeting there was no audit presentation and no comment about it. Just like the "good question" the planned presentation is another empty promise, never delivered.

    It appears that a 2015 budget presentation is scheduled for a special meeting at an inconvenient time on October 2. This budget, if presented, will have been built on the quicksand of unaudited funds and the contempt our Supervisor holds for his constituents. I urge all of our elected officials to vote no on any budget developed without independent verification of the figures.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Eileen,

    Excellent summary.

    Let's hope the 2015 Tentative Budget has, at the very least, 2013 Actuals, 2014 YTD Actuals and 2014 Year End Projections.

    Pete Stenson

    ReplyDelete
  11. Yes, there is always hope.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I just read the "Gift Subscription" article in its entirety. How incredibly sad that the casino industry clearly targets lonely, disenfranchised people who are looking for someplace to go where they can feel a sense of belonging, importance, ownership, and worth. Patrons treat casinos like a home away from home where they can be with people just like them and they're willing to spend every last penny for the privilege of being there. Their attitudinal and behavioral loyalty is the price they have to pay, in addition to maxing out their credit cards, to feel a connection to the human race, and if they happen to hit the jackpot in the process, then so much the better. It truly is sad that so many people can't think of a better way to spend their time and money. What's even sadder is that an entire industry exploits these people to the fullest extent of the law and then sends them home broke. Nice!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's exactly right Anony. And do you think that Langley, DeFruscio and Gilbert have the brains to read through the article and understand what you have understood? They just followed orders from Troy and Jimino and Crist. Really a sad state of affairs when the "EG brain trust" doesn't have two brain cells to rub together. Feathers driving the bus and the boys in the back seat.

      Delete
  13. In all honestly, it didn't take geniuses to understand the casino industry. The casino industry is no better than the tobacco and alcohol industry. While I do not smoke, I do drink, so I am not bashing either industries. However, a government who promotes either of the three; gambling, alcohol or tobacco, is corrupt, shameful and disgusting. They are the three items millions of New Yorkers purchase on a daily basis, and the three items that have governmental warnings on them. Now the government wants to promote this? I still go back to Mr. childish Gilbert's remark, "you are trying to legislate morality", buddy.....seriously, we're adults, why aren't you using good judgement in the first place? I have a hard time explaining to my nephews and neices who ask about the casino and why anyone would consider this, how in the world do the four of you, Mr. Langley, Mr. Malone, Mrs. DiMartino and Mrs. Mangold, honestly look yourselves in the mirror every day and be OK with the fact you want to promote taking your residents money to pay your corruptive debt?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You've got it right Anony....these people live off the efforts of others.. Feathers and company are leaches. They produce nothing and suck resources from others. Can anybody answer the question about what a casino produces which is positive in a community??

      Delete
    2. Every week these gambling gurus take out a full-page as in the local Advertiser to promote their lies. They are unconscionable and, what's worse, they seem to have endless reserves of money for expensive advertising. This shows us the lengths they will go to set up shop in our town so that they can begin to sick every last penny of disposable, and not so "disposable," income out of our community. Oh, Supr. Langley, how proud you must be of your accomplishments thus far...not!

      Delete
  14. Anony 9;49 It's interesting that you mention your nieces and nephews. The Supr of EG has two kids, a teenager and a twenty-something year old. I have often wondered how he explains to them the benefits of having a gambling casino in our town. Does he tell them that gambling is a wholesome, family-friendly all American pastime? Does he tell them that there is nothing to fear from welcoming a form of organized crime into our community? Does he tell them that he is the proud sponsor and host to this parasitic industry that bleeds mostly poor people dry? Does he tell them that gambling fits into our community and enhances and enriches us culturally or otherwise? I've often wondered what he tells his own wife and kids about deliberately bringing gambling to EG and I've especially wondered what they've told him. Are they proud of their Dad or, like the rest of us, are disappointed as hell?

    ReplyDelete
  15. According to a young person.....or maybe many young persons....the casino is something to do. There seems to me better things to do than constant texting, staring at computers, playing video games, or possibly communing with a slot machine. What happened to talking with friends, playing sports, going to the Y, meeting at Starbucks for a coffee and chat with friends, volunteering with some of the young people who need a great mentor? This list can go on and on. A casino is not the answer to anything other than filling Feather and Co. pockets and creating a financial and mental depression in OUR town. Get out and stay out.

    ReplyDelete
  16. So interesting about the "young people" comment. I have seen that complaint a couple of times on the casino's page. I think that the younger people can and do go to Albany, Troy, SPAC etc. for their entertainment -- as do the young people of Averill Park, NG, Sand Lake etc., so their complaint is hollow to me. Also if you look at the analytics on the casino's page, mostly 25-34 year olds are responding. I am also willing to bet that most of their "likes" are from young employees at the racino who are hoping that when they lose their jobs Feathers will send them to EG. The core target audience of the casino industry is 35+.

    ReplyDelete
  17. From day 1 the Supr has come across as the family guy yet he seeks to bring gambling to EG. Is that a family-friendly industry Mr. Supr? Would you be okay with your children working at a casino as a cocktail waitress, a blackjack dealer, working security, maintaining the grounds, cleaning rooms, or waitressing? Would you be okay with them working upper management level jobs in the offices? Would you want them on site 40 hours a week working any job at all? If not, what would your concerns be? Would you be concerned for their safety and well being in such an environment? If you would have any reservations at all, Mr. Supr, about YOUR son or daughter working at Capital View, then why would you bring such an industry to our town? I guess you don't espouse to the philosophy "It takes a village to raise a child." You also don't espouse to "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you and yours." Very disappointing, Mr. Supr. Very disappointing indeed.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Just watched the Capital View and Hard Rock webcast presentations. Feathers got his tail-feathers blown off. Hands down.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dear Gadfly,

      I too just watched both the Capital View and Hard Rock webcast presentations. Hard Rock is definitely the better bidder. Feathers and Rita Cox just regurgitated the same garbage from the Columbia "dog and pony" show. Also, not mentioned in the presentation was the girl scout camp, the Montessori school and Columbia High School being in close proximity to the Capital View location. Hopefully, someone will inform the gaming commission at Monday's meeting.

      Delete
  19. Mr. Gadfly, I think that Mr. Feathers breezed into EG thinking he had his casino deal all sown up. The first vote on the idea was akin to a drive by shooting whereby nobody, even the board members (except for the Supe) knew what hit them. Even the second vote was similarly rushed with a sense of urgency that had everyone (except the Supe) unnerved. It seemed clear by the quality of the presentations that Feathers was never worried that he'd have to sink too much time or financial resources into taking "the hill." There has been an arrogance, a persistence, and an attitude of entitlement where this project is concerned from day 1. The Supe also figured 'I want it and I'm going to have it no matter what!" Clearly though, things haven't gone as smoothly and easily as they anticipated. The full-page ads in the Advertiser every Thursday tell us that perhaps Feathers is worried that we're not going to lay down like wimps and let them walk all over us. This time next week, the public hearings will commence. We need to do our best to make intelligent, not emotional, cases for why a casino in a small suburban town in Renss county is a BAD idea. We need to raise our voices loud, proud, and strong and show them who's BOSS, and it ain't Feathers and Langley. It's the people of the town and we mustn't let them forget it.

    ReplyDelete
  20. On that same note 12:46 PM, tomorrow's Town Board meeting (7PM at Town Hall) is very important. There are some very interesting items on the Agenda, including at least four publicly unnamed appointments to important Town positions. Remember, secrecy is Langley's standard operating procedure. Let's not let Langley push through these appointments without them being carefully vetted and discussed. Would it be too much for Mr. Langley to ask his appointees to at least provide a copy of their Resumes to the Board and the Public in advance of the meeting to allow the interested taxpayers of EG to review the qualifications and experience of those people? After all, our tax dollars are paying their salaries and per diems.
    Not good Mr. Langley, not good at all.

    ReplyDelete

  21. As I commented on Talks ... (AnonymousSeptember 15, 2014 7:49 AM)

    I can’t wait to see how folks vote on Wednesday’s Training, Financial Reports, Ethics and Appointment resolutions.

    Could be very revealing!

    Pete Stenson

    ReplyDelete
  22. 1:38PM- I think you mean Wednesday for the TB meeting. I agree, it's an important meeting to attend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wonder if the folks who get there early so they can get a seat in the woefully inadequate TB meeting room will be met by armed officers again. That really gave me the warm fuzzies the last time.

      Come on, Supervisor Langley...you know we're coming, why can't you just do the right thing and open the doors and let the seating be first come, first serve. Or maybe do the right thing and move the venue to someplace where your constituents can be accommodated. The locked door policy really gets the meetings off on the wrong foot.

      Delete
  23. CFAC Meeting Location Change: The Monday, September 15th at 7:00pm has been relocated to Meeting Room A of the East Greenbush Library.

    Pete Stenson

    ReplyDelete
  24. "Attitudinal loyalty has been defined as capturing the effective and cognitive aspects of loyalty and gaining brand loyalty by investing in developing an emotional connection."

    I've been out of the loop but I did want to be sure people understood that this quote from the Casino journal is almost a clinical definition of addiction. I'm pretty sure they meant 'affective' rather than 'effective' so what they're saying is that 'loyalty' is when you lock a person's emotional and intellectual impulses together into the need to return to the casino. That's not loyalty, it's compulsion. Kind of makes all their crap about "socially responsible gaming" and "strenuous efforts to reduce problem gambling" as empty as everything else they promise.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Right on target Jack!! I wonder if the "brain trust" who invested in sending me the gift subscription to Casino Journal has ever read, let alone understood, the content of some of the material. I'm convinced that they really have no idea as to what they are trying to help Feathers perpetrate on this community. No understanding. No values. As somebody said recently, "no magnet in their moral compass."

      Delete
  25. And, Gadfly, the gift subscription is just another example of the relentless bullying and harassment that this administration is perpetrating on anyone who disagrees with them or gets in their way. It doesn't get much worse than what they're doing to Ms. Matters on that ridiculous blog, which borders on the criminal. And who has all that time to waste bashing her ten times a day a blog? Wish I had that kind of time to waste. The worrisome part is that the Supervisor condones it and is clearly participating in the harassment by not stopping it. In the military, he would be charged with behavior unbecoming... It's truly disgraceful behavior from all of them.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Would you believe that 36 percent of Las Vegas Revenue is from Gaming. Only 36 percent, why because Las Vegas realized that long ago the people that come to Vegas are not there to gamble. They are there as tourists, business people and general visitors. They used the casinos as a foundation. It took a few years but they understood that when America has no money, they won't gamble it away. Plus local casinos get local money. Destination casinos get everyone's money. The East Greenbush casino is a local one. The Hard Rock casino will be a destination. By being on the Hudson you can attract more people there and to downtown Albany by using the casino as a foundation. Las Vegas knows it and so does Hard Rock. East Greenbush doesn't get it. This is just a bad deal all around. It is a bad investment. If you asked Wall Street to consider the best investment, I bet it would be Rensselaer. East Greenbush not so much. It doesn't give you long lasting investment opportunity. It doesn't give potential for growth with room retention rates. The East Greenbush site benefits a few people. Not the entire capital district.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Gadfly, will we have an agenda for tonite's meeting? Isn't today Wednesday, Sept 17? Where's the flipping agenda? This is unbelievable.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And it is something to behold. Politics makes strange bedfellows and politics with casino's added in makes extraordinarily strange bedfellows.

      Delete
  28. Malone has taken Langley to school. Langley is woefully inadequate as a negotiator. He's like the kid on the playground who hands over his lunch money.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Langley's absolutely pathetic lack of negotiating skills showed up right after he was elected.

      O'Brien, Mangold and Malone played him like a cheap fiddle on the salary issue and he folded that the proverbial cheap suit.

      When it comes to leadership and leading he may have the title and the job but he is clearly incapable of the part of the job that requires him to do the right things in the right way.

      Delete
  29. Poor Langley: First O'Brien, then Feathers, then MAM, then Malone. Who's next?

    ReplyDelete
  30. Clearly the stooges have lost their collective mind and made deals with the devil (enter Phil Malone stage left). The public hearing reso is toast guaranteed. Maybe others, too, and three democrats slip into town hall. Appointing George Raneri is no different than appointing Chris DuhFruscio, except George is whole lot smarter. Raneri is on the Repub Committee and purely a patronage pick. We're lucky with George though, he's qualified for the job. Langlost will love having Raneri down in his office all day long giving him his sagely advice. Langlost can certainly use the help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. In the light of Ms. Matter's stance on appointments tonight, this link from a friend is instructive:

      http://www.romenewyork.com/document/4575.pdf

      Delete
    2. Kudos to Ms. Matters for pointing out a serious flaw in our town's management; voting on resolutions with little to none thought process. Why has our town for years been called out for financial distress? Our town's mismanagement, illegal dealings, and the need to not follow rules. How can the town board not see the conflict of interest with having a pre-selected town official be the Ethics Chair? An independent party is absurd? No, their thought process..."if their is an independent person and someone has an ethics claim against me, how can I control them?" Sad, they don't get it. We don't trust them and the only one who see's that is MAM and I'm thinking Sue is catching on. I'd say FEMALE POWER, but then we have DiMartino reverting to the 50's following blindly behind Langley (who in their right mind would ever follow that man?). What a slap to the women who fought to have their own thoughts.

      Delete
  31. Bravo to Councilpersons Matters and Mangold. They struck a number of resounding chords for open and transparent government at tonight's Town Board meeting. It was wonderful watching them working together on behalf of the people of the Town!
    As for Supervisor Langley... we have his quote... "It is what it is."

    ReplyDelete
  32. Tom, I have always loved the "It is what it is quote". That quote represents the absolute pinnacle of a logic breakdown.

    Of course everything is what it is. Something cannot be what it is not.

    Good grief. When supervising the town's finances (allegedly Langley's primary responsibility) is reduced to cliches' it is clearly time for a very different smart way forward.

    ReplyDelete
  33. I have to echo Tom Grant's comments. Last night was one of the strangest board meetings in recent memory. Mary Ann Matters made a number of requests for basic courtesy and entry-level professionalism and was treated like she was carrying the Ebola virus. Sue Mangold did a great job too. And whereas I love Tom Grant the Elder, it was Tom Grant the Younger who stole the show. He was the peoples' equivalent of Mary Ann Matters. He gave great credit to the many town employees who work hard but implored the town board to put them in a position to succeed. The reasonable pleas of Mary Ann Matters and young Tom Grant stood out in a sea of yelping, self-serving nonsense.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Tom, I'm adding the latest Langley quote "It is what it is" to my growing list of his prior nonsensical statements including, but not limited to, "The Resolution is the Resolution" and "The Process is the Process." Unfortunately this is what passes for enlightened leadership and intelligent communication among the rapidly diminishing Langley crowd.

    ReplyDelete
  35. I attended the Town Board meeting last night. As usual, there was a number of residents addressing the board on a host of different issues.

    One speaker stood out to me...basically because of his presentation. He was able to get his points across in a mature and respectful manner.

    Young Tom Grant - I have to tell you, I was really impressed with the way you handled yourself. Tom, you may have been the youngest speaker at the meeting, but people could learn a lot from you,

    Sincerely,
    Joe LaMountain

    ReplyDelete
  36. Did you see the Girl Scout story tonight on channel 13? Langley/DeFruscio, you are the dumbest airheads in the world to let this happen to our town. What in hell were your thinking? Escorting Rita to her car? You have no clue as to where you live. Did either of you graduate from any school?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anony 6:30 pm: They only care about the money. Nothing more, nothing less.

      Delete
  37. Our Supervisor sold out BIG time last night. He couldn't make it work with MAM, so now he's taking a crack at it with Junior. How does it feel, Mr. Supr., to be sitting in a room with Junior taking his order down on your notepad? Let's act this out.
    Langley: Mr. Malone, I'd rather die than give MAM her public hearing. Save me!
    Malone: Listen, pops, what's in it for me?
    Langley: A smackdown for MAM?
    Malone: Not good enough, pops. I want, well, MORE!
    Langley:Okay, you can have the Court Clerk appointment if I can have the Data Collector appointment. Can I?
    Malone: Okay, okay...just stop whining and send DuhFruscio and Elroy home. I'm tired of looking at um!
    Langley: Okay, done, Mr. Malone. Now, I need my Alternate to the Planning Board appointment...pleeeeze!
    Malone: Okay, chunky monkey, but it's gonna cost you big. That's one for you and TWO for me, the Court Attendant and Cheryl Vallee for your GD Ethics Board. You got a problem with that?
    Langley: No, Mr. Malone. Just don't get mad. I couldn't keep my majority together so I NEED YOU! Do you need me, sir?
    Malone: Not in your wildest dreams, boss hog. You're lucky I'm not bouncing you outta here.
    Langley: Oh, thank you, Mr. Malone. May I kiss your ring?
    Malone: Git away from me! We're done here. I told you it would be a lot easier dealing with me. God, what a loser!
    Langley: Good night, Mr. Malone. Y'all come back now, y'here.
    Malone: Aww, shut up.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Councilperson Malone is just the latest in a long list of those who have outwitted our half witted Supervisor Keith Langley. Only a feeble Supervisor like Keith Langley could have turned the SWF majority into the Phil Malone majority.
    I'm not blaming Mr. Malone at all he "seen (his) opportunities and (he) took 'em."
    Not good Mr. Langley, not good at all.

    ReplyDelete
  39. It's important to note that Langley & Co didn't reject MAM, SHE rejected them. Gilbert told her to play ball or else and she decided to take her chances on the "or else." Then, in their infinite genius, the EGMatters blog was born to embarrass and humiliate her into going back to them and shutting the hell up. That's why Langley is now forced to crawl to Malone to make deals. When Langley sent his drone to threaten MAM, he made the mistake of his political career. The EGM blog sealed their fate forever. Anony at 10:32...hysterical! Langley's treatment of women will ultimately be his undoing.

    ReplyDelete
  40. How humiliating for Supervisorr Keith Langley that he is now just a follower in a new TB majority headed by Councilperson Phil Malone, the person who is working to deny him re-election as Town Supervisor in 2015. To paraphrase President Bill Clinton, Keith Langley is so inept that "he could mess up a two car parade."

    ReplyDelete
  41. Langley WAS the only bull in the pen. On Wednesday, he opened the gate and invited Malone to come in. Now, there are TWO snorting bulls in the same pen and it's only a matter of time before they both decide that the pen is only big enough for ONE of them. Remember, Mr. Supr., when Malone sh#ts in your pen, it's on your watch, and you're responsible to clean it up. Chumlee and Elroy, you now serve two masters. Enjoy!

    ReplyDelete
  42. @ 1:46 PM- Just one "snorting bull" (Malone) and one "declawed kitten" (Langley).

    ReplyDelete
  43. Let's face it. Langley has been a disaster and he's also not very intelligent. He is completely unwilling to work very hard and it shows at every single public appearance he makes.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Just for some wider distribution, here's an example of the production of some of the people who are making policy decisions for the Town of East Greenbush. It's from the EastGreenbushMatters blog. It should be an embarrassment to the citizens of the Town and a particular embarrassment to the members of the Town and County Republican Committees who are allowing these people to retain their positions.

    "I HATE DONNY BOY
    September 19, 2014 at 1:23 pm

    Don , your wife is a crack pot. and so are you . why did you wreck Mary Ann and Rick Matters good Name ? You turned Rick Matters and his Wife in to the laughing stock of EG.Nice job Don, the last couple you hurt was Cristo Taylor. Mike can not show his face around town because of you and the Grants . Oh Don your house mate or what every she is to you is koo koo nutz ."

    ReplyDelete
  45. Gadfly, 9 /19 at 1:23 is babbling incoherently, but what it means is that the stooges are panic-stricken over their failed majority. Instead of being adults and taking responsibility for their failures, they are looking to blame anyone and everyone for their mistakes. First, they attacked the Matters, then Cristo/Taylor, then Jack, and now you and your wife. Who's next? They are like trapped rats that are crawling over everyone to get out of this alive. They stink of stupidity and desperation and they're literally not smart enough to turn it around for themselves. 2015 is right around the corner. Politically they are sailing on the titanic and heading for an iceberg. Time will remedy this problem. We all just need to hang on and watch from our lifeboats while their ship sinks. We will survive. They will not. In the meantime, we'll just have to put up with their always anonymous and embarrassingly sophomoric temper tantrums on the smear blog and hope that they grow up in the very near future.

    ReplyDelete
  46. 10:05, I agree with you. In addition to being unable to take responsibility for themselves and their leader, Mr. Langley the authors of that blog lack the intellect and sophistication to administer a blog like the Gadfly. They fail to see that each of the threads and most of the posts printed here consist of substantive information. Cartoons and name calling will not promote Langley's agenda (if he has one) and the machine gun approach taken by the blog you mention often highlights matters that Langley would never mention if he were at all capable as a politician or a leader

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Remember the old sayings:

      "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me!"

      "Consider the source!"

      and my personal favorite:

      "I've been called worse by better!"

      Also remember they are only hurting themselves and their "cause".

      Pete Stenson aka "Stinky"

      Delete
  47. Dear Supervisor Langley:

    Please make a public comment on whether you support and endorse or reject completely the East Greenbush Matters blog.

    Saying nothing, which is what we expect from your lack of leadership will be viewed as your supporting that blog.

    Please be the leader we elected you to be. It is not that hard.

    ReplyDelete
  48. A question: Now that Langley and Malone are making deals, is Langley now a Democrat or is Malone a Republican?

    ReplyDelete
  49. I'd not give all about me Malone too much credit folks

    Phil’s facing sure defeat in his Assembly campaign and is trying to curry favor with the dems by getting a few appointments and some raises at the cost of keeping Elroy on the ethics board

    At least he finally manned up and said he was responsible for the anti-Matters material

    Too little too late, Phil

    ReplyDelete
  50. I am saddened to see on the matterss blog that the authors cannot understand the Open Meetings Law. There is usually an easy to understand explanation of what the law requires on this blog shortly after each time the law is ignored by East Greenbush officials. They fault MAM for having private citizens in her home on a particular evening. Councilperson Matters cannot conduct a private meeting with PUBLIC OFFICIALS because citizens have a right to transparency in the conduct of public business. Ms. Maters retains her constitutional rights to freedom of assembly whenever, wherever, and with whomever she pleases.
    The disturbing part of Mr. Langley and his associates still not getting it is that Langley is Supervisor, Gilbert is Ethics Chair, and DeFruscio "is what he is". These people are clearly not cleaver enough to be in charge of anything. 15 more months.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Again, the stooges are reaching for anything they can use to pull themselves out of the quicksand but they just keep sinking. Soon they'll disappear into the quicksand of their ineptness, their stupidity, their immaturity, and their incompetence. Keep reaching, guys!

    ReplyDelete
  52. Good for Mary Ann Matters for taking the time out of her busy schedule and opening up her home to meet with town residents. That's much better than riding around in a truck spying on people.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. kinda creepy with defcon and dilbert following people

      what about stalking laws?

      Delete
  53. Dear Gadfly, So let me get this straight, The Langleyites are complaining that Mary Ann and Rick Matters invite friends over to their house to enjoy each others fellowship and conversation. AND they (the Langleyites) want a copy of any "minutes" taken.
    I don't know about you Gadfly, but when we have friends over to the house we don't normally take "minutes". We just treasure the time we spend together.
    What sort of a world do the Langleyites live in?? And why are people like them in charge of our Town's government.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Malone made his "deals" with Langley this month but, make no mistake about it, Langley won that round. His sole goal was to keep Elroy spying on the Ethics Board complaints for him, which he accomplished. He also got his pick for the Data Collector and the alternate to the Planning Board. Langley also won, yes WON, the other positions that were filled because he couldn't find good people for those jobs anyway. So Malone actually helped Langley recruit people for those jobs. Now, the new hires will support Langley so they can keep their jobs if he wins next year. Had Malone/Mangold included Matters in the discussions, would things have turned out differently? Did they even approach her to discuss? Apparently not because she said she was in the dark about the appointments. Will they play Langley and Matters off against each other in the future to get what they want? Only if they're smart, and they have to be smarter than Langley. Who isn't?

    ReplyDelete
  55. @ 3:45 AM-
    Langley's view of government is so warped that he actually does believe that keeping Elroy spying on the Ethics Board is a win. The sad thing is, that while it might be a short term win for Langley, it's a huge loss for the people of East Greenbush.

    ReplyDelete
  56. I'd say that the Town's folk are pretty much fed up with the antics and return to cronyism we saw on Wednesday night - topped off by the train wreck of the casino fiasco. These people on both sides of the fence just don't learn. If New York State had Recall, they'd be well on their way out the door right now just as soon as a special election could be scheduled, and we wouldn't have to depend on the Siting Board to stop this whole thing. Good grief, there wasn't a bit of due diligence was there? You've got the Police Chief quoted in the developer's application saying that he's used to doing more with less so the Department really won't need to be enhanced if a casino should come to town. Not one brain got put in gear in this whole matter. But patronage and cronyism are alive and well.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Are the stooges stalking the Matters? How could they know who they're inviting to their home unless they are watching them? Creepy. This is getting alarmingly weird. Everyone knows Langley is paranoid, but this? Wow.

    ReplyDelete
  58. The weirdness factor and apparent stalking behavior of some of our government officials has no place in our town. Is it possible Langley approves of this?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It is probable that Langley approves of the stalking behavior and its publication. Langley requires absolute loyalty from his associates and would banish them if they were doing anything he did not oorder.

      Delete
    2. Independent thinking is not tolerated in the Langley camp. That's why Debbie voted in lockstep with him on Wed night whether she wanted to or not. The last thing she needs is a vicious smear blog about her and her family. She'd do anything to prevent that from happening. Langley & Co. has her by the ear where the "past" is concerned. It can't be easy for her and we can't expect anything from her as long as Langley, and his band of merry misfits, is in office.

      Delete
  59. At Mondays meeting about the casino only one question should be asked , how has this project made it to this point, The property is zoned residential buffer it should be rejected. It doesn't matter what may happen in the future, In this round it should be rejected on that point.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I wouldn't be surprised if (when the developers were "playing patsy" with Town officials as Fred LeBrun put it) assurances were exchanged related to the ability to "fix" any zoning or environmental issues without much trouble. One of the reasons for the secrecy and exclusion of the public from the process.

      Delete
    2. It shouldn't matter what may happen, at this time the gaming commission should say either the town was not accurate in filing the application or Saratoga was not accurate and it should be denied the document that was submitted is inaccurate the independent commission should reject it who cares about what any one thinks took place with Eastgreenbush .this is about the integrity of a state entity and its simple to come back to haunt them im sure they are not anywhere close to our dog and pony show I would find it really hard to believe

      Delete
    3. And another point the letter sent to property owners within 200 feet of the proposed casino is what used to be an application for a varience how is it also a pdd meeting and how does it become a public hearing on my first point should it first be the property owners within 200 feet then if it passes or not then be the pdd application with a public portion for that application

      Delete
  60. Whether it's appointments to town jobs or critically important zoning issues, the secrecy and backroom deals perpetrated on us by public officials abound. The taxpayers, who pay the ultimate price for those self-serving, self-enriching backroom "deals," are excluded from the process. Sometimes there is time to rise up and fight things, but sometimes there is not. It's all very worrisome, but it's exactly why the taxpayers have to get involved in town gov't and stay on their backs because remember: "WHEN THE FOX IS GUARDING THE HEN HOUSE, HE WILL HAVE CHICKEN FOR DINNER EVERY SINGLE NIGHT." This was a quote from Dr. Phil McGraw's father when Dr. Phil was growing up. They are words to remember and live by.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kind of what Ms. Matters said Wednesday about Ed Gilbert being o the Ethics Board.

      Delete
  61. The EG Matterss moderators are beyond pathetic! I have commentedsseveral times using my twitter ID knowing full well they won't publish my comment because I honestly said how I feel. Now they are commenting using my ID! Ive seen other familiar ID's with comments that dont match how these ID's have commented on other blogs.

    ReplyDelete
  62. 12:40...that is EXACTLY Chris Defruscio mocking you. He has been doing it for years. I've been saying this for months. People simply don't get it.
    Chris Defruscio is the epitome of a juvenile, moronic , delinquent !
    He has the intelligence of a 1st grader and it shows. He's a 53 year old punk walking the streets of East Greenbush, ripping people off every day of the week !
    He has done absolutely NOTHING since January 2nd except make sure his family and friends got jobs on the taxpayer dime. None of his appointments, including himself, are remotely qualified to hod their positions.
    We all suffer for the foolish decisions of a very few.
    SWF - screwing the Working Families of East Greenbush since January 2, 2014 !

    ReplyDelete
  63. 12:40 p.m. if they are using your Twitter ID to publish comments that you did not make, then it may be a form of identity theft. You, and anyone else this has happened to, should report it to the state police. In the meantime, it's best to boycott that blog. It's run by mean, sadistic children who know no bounds. What's happening is that their power has been severely diminished since MAM walked away from them, so they are acting like trapped and cornered animals fighting for their political relevancy. We all know how vicious trapped and cornered animals will be. Do yourself a favor and stay away.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Just heard Ed Gilbert on the Hearing Live Feed. He has no brain and no soul. Ed...Chip Fab produces a PRODUCT. Casinos don't even produce mouse traps or buggy whips. You can't make the comparison. It's sad that you continue to carry water for DeFruscio when the cause is lost. Bye bye.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Grand Torino talking now. Thanks very much John!! You're a gem.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Any sign of Supervisor Langley?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Not a chance. They propped him up like "weekend a Bernies" with Feathers last week. He couldn't come to advocate, but it wouldn't have done any good. The corruption and incompetence of the administration has been established. Gilbert did that in his remarks.

      Delete
  67. Hi, I was the guy wearing the Hard Rock Café Rensselaer Shirt this morning. I was surrounded by a sea of blue for Schenectady and yellow for Schorarie casinos. Yet many of you were nice and didn't jeer me or act like I was the enemy. I thank you very much. We had a lot in common and I appreciate that. Oh and Bruen is your next battleground.

    ReplyDelete
  68. TOWN ANTHEM TO DEPTY SUPR. EDWARD GILBERT
    You're a mean one, Eddie G.
    You really are a heel,
    You're as cuddly as a cactus, and as charming as an eel, Eddie Geeeee.
    You're a bad banana with a greasy black peel.
    You're a monster, Eddie G.
    You're heart's an empty hole,
    Your brain is full of spiders, you have garlic in your soul, Eddie Geeee.
    I wouldn't touch you with a thirty-nine-and-a-half-foot pole.
    You're a foul one, Eddie G.
    You have termites in your smile,
    You have all the tender sweetness of a seasick crocodile, Eddie Geeee.
    Given a choice between of you, I'd take the seasick crocodile.
    You're a rotter, Eddie G.
    You're the king of sinful sots,
    You're heart's a dead tomato splotched with moldy purple spots, Eddie Geeee.
    You're a three decker sauerkraut and toadstool sandwich with arsenic sauce.
    You nauseate us, Eddie G.
    You're a nauseous super "naus"!
    You're a crooked dirty jocky and you drive a crooked hoss, Eddie Geeeee.
    Your soul is an appalling dump heap overflowing with the most disgraceful
    assortment of rubbish imaginable mangled up in tangled knots.
    You're a FOUL ONE, Eddie G.
    You're a nasty wasty SKUNK!
    Your heart is full of dirty socks, your soul is full of gunk. Eddie Geeee.
    The three words that best describe you are,
    STINK, STANK, STUNK!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  69. Feather's is probably kicking himself he didnt have Chief/bus driver Lavin drive a schools bus of the silent majority! I guess those silent majority really are invisible. He could have had the chief setlle our doubts by reiterating his sentiment that hes used to the extra workload in East Greenbush so he can handle a casino. I wonder if he's eying the drunk bus driver position? Interesting Morgan Hooks beens trying to...well I dont know ehat his intentions are, but check out it iutnHe's claiming the opposition is running a smear campaign! !!! No comment!!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  70. The incredible turn out by Howe Caverns supporters today disproves the "silent majority doesn't speak up" nonsense our Town Board uses as an excuse for the lack of support for the proposed casino.

    The PR team of the developer tried very hard to discredit the opposition by stating that we were from other towns, and that we were supported financially by the Schenectady casino developer. Both of these false statements stink of desperation. It is a shame that some residents allowed themselves to be coached into using these obviously flawed arguments.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Oops, lots of typos sorry...ill just retype the biggest one. I meant "but check out HIS TWITTER", not sure how it turned that :-)

    ReplyDelete
  72. I thoroughly enjoyed today's proceedings. The number of smart, articulate, passionate people who spoke in opposition to a casino in East Greenbush made each of the twelve hours a rout for the good guys. I think Save East Greenbush's most effective speaker today was Ed Gilbert. We spent ten hours hammering home a picture of an arrogant, willfully ignorant town board and then Ed got up and showed the Board what we were talking about. It was a virtuoso performance. Five full minutes without a single factual statement, every word dripping with condescension and disdain. Tonight I proclaim Ed Gilbert an honorary member of Save East Greenbush, If we stop this casino, we'll be able to say "Thanks Ed, we couldn't have done it without you."

    And let me be clear: I'm not picking on Ed because he supports the casino. John Tirino, the McLeans and a few others spoke in favor of it, and though I disagreed with them, I had to respect them for having a valid opinion and taking the time to come voice it. But Ed treated himself to his own 'reality,' one that bore no relation to the world the rest of us live in. What's that old cliché? You're welcome to your own opinion, you're not welcome to your own facts.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Did I hear correctly that Gilbert actually denied the close proximity of Woodland Hills, the Girl Scout Camp and the High School to the proposed casino site? Amazing, Ed. And Thanks!!!

      Delete
  73. You are correct Gadfly. That's Deputy Supervisor and Ethics Board Chairman Ed "The Pathfinder" Gilbert for you.
    Not good for your boss, Supervisor Langley, and not good for his boss, C. Def at all.
    NO CASINO for you Mr. Gilbert.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I guess he didn't know that Elizabeth Wade had shown the Location Board a map earlier in the day with the sites designated. What a drip.

      Delete
  74. I saw Edward Gilbert on the news last night sporting the Gentlemen's Warehouse suit and tie and looking all official. I have to say though that not even HE looked like he believed what he was saying. He's mean but not stupid per se so it must be brutal for him to have to earn his $3K by carrying Langley's water, especially while Langley is back at the ranch eating potato chips in front of the TV with his feet up. Gilbert has himself in quite a mess as Depty Dog of EG. If he's using this as a stepping stone to greater political aspirations, he can forget it. He's going down with the rest of 'em. Bye, bye Eddie G.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Hi, one of the lone supporters of Rensselaer again. It seems that unlike you guys, schoraie and Schnectady I had only two other private citizens speaking. There were a few politicians from troy and even Albany but two private citizens. I have to say that after spending the money for my shirt and cup, I was humiliated by the fact the common council had no support behind them. They raised no army of supporters, It felt like a kick to the gut. I had to go to work after I spoke but after arriving back at the Hotel after 8 you guys informed me no one else was there. No army of supporters was waiting. I had no support. Hell there was more pro casino individuals from East Greenbush then Rensselaer. If we lose the casino to the other sites I ask for your support in making sure delaet's landing is rebuilt for all the capital region to enjoy. Sure it may not have a casino but it still has great potential.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hopefully the Hard Rock will still be interested in putting just a Hard Rock up if you do not get the casino bid. I wasn't routing for anyone to get a bid, after yesterday I tip my hat to Hpwe Caverns.

      Delete
    2. The Hard Rock Casino is a much better choice than East Greenbush. I live in the middle of both of these sites, but Dalaet's Landing has such potential being right on the river across from Albany, and it is just sitting there now ready. I will email gaming commission supporting the Hard Rock Casino today. Take heart because you do have a gem of a location in your city.

      Delete
    3. You showed a great deal of dedication when you spoke. You did a great job. We are sorry that you were not supported. You are right that Delaet's Landing is a terrific location for development, and you will be supported when other development is interested in that location. Don't be discouraged, you stood up for what you believed in and that is commendable.

      Delete
  76. It will be very interesting to hear what Deputy Gilbert has to say if/when the New York Attorney General's Public Integrity Unit comes calling. Take a look at Jim Odato's very informative article in today's Times-Union for further details.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Donnie you and Dwight, Jack are so smart. God bless you for taking care of our lives

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Here's a "collective" reply:

      "You're very welcome Ed. Yesterday was a butt-kicking of epic proportions. We stayed strong and dominated virtually every one of those hours. The only way Feathers gets this casino is if the deal was done up front. And then there will be three well-funded losers madder than hell. Otherwise Capital View is toast. Our morale is very high today."

      Delete
  78. I expect the Supervisor and his Deputy will become very familiar with the Investigative proffer "Queen For A Day" in the very near future.
    Stay tuned...

    ReplyDelete
  79. 9:36 a.m. While they're at, they should investigate Gilbert's role as Chairman of the Ethics Board for the purpose of spying on it's activities and reporting back to the Supr.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Dear Gadfly:
    I'm sure this is just a coincidence. FBI Director James B. Comey is scheduled to visit the Bureau's local field office today. According to the media release, The Director reportedly plans to "meet with local FBI agents as well as state and local law enforcement officers."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The FBI is extremely familiar with Defruscio and several of his family members ! Langley should be scared - very scared...your little facade is falling apart and your name is all over the entire debacle !

      Delete
    2. @12:14 PM- That might explain why the Supervisor wasn't feeling well enough to attend even a few minutes of yesterday's 12 hour gaming commission hearing, or at the very least arrange to have a written statement read into the record on his behalf.

      Delete
    3. Tom, the elder, what does this have to do with East Greenbush? Just curious.

      Delete
  81. After yesterday, if Capital View gets picked we will know the fix is in and I hope the 3 other developers sue the pants off of New York State, especially the governor. You couldn't help but sympathize with Howe Cavern citizens. They really need the economic relief and sincerely want it. I say - give it to those guys.

    ReplyDelete
  82. The only way anyone could choose Capital View after yesterday is if Feathers and Co and Langley were the one's selecting. Even Cuomo isnt stupid enough to pick us when the enyire Capital Region already knew about the problems with our site and after yesterdag, even Morgan Hook can't spin it any other way. Although he desperately and immaturely tried. Knockout for Save East Greenbush. I still think tese casino make no economic sense, but after seeing the passion behind Howe Cavern supprters and probably the best scenario and circumstances to win the bid, I'm routing for them.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Sounds like a full investigation of East Greenbush CASINOGATE is in order. No wonder Langley was too sick to attend the hearings yesterday.

    ReplyDelete
  84. "There was an open space on the route 4 corridor" that is why the casino was to go on Thompson Hill Rd. Since when is Thompson Hill on route 4? What bunch of crap. By the way that was a statement by the developers attorney.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Any solid proof on who threw our town to the dogs in the first place?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Take a look at the documents I FOILed related to the meetings between Town staff and the PR people from Saratoga. Looks like (from the last meeting in the notes) that Rich Crist and Chris DeFruscio were the "guiding lights." A totally political operation with some guidance from the Dem money and real estate interests on Thompson Hill. That illegal Plat approval back in January that led to the recusals from the Board and Planning Board has something to do with why the casino initiative ended on Thompson Hill. It needs to be sorted out with some serious investigation. As they say in the South...."things just don't add up."

      Delete
    2. Dear Gadfly:
      There were two recusals from the ZBA from tonight's meeting. Does anyone have any information regarding who and why?

      Delete
    3. That should be on the public record someplace. We should be provided with that information. I would expect that to be put out there immediately.

      Delete
    4. The only town recusal forms I could find were ironically for the board of ethics. This form would be useful for departments where decsions are voted on and have an impact on our town.

      Oh, while this is a good form, they do not have to fill it out before they recuse themselves. However, this could be understandable if someone either heard/saw something last minute, and/or has a serious, strong opinion on the subject.

      Delete
    5. Tom,
      The Two Recusers are Zoning Board Chairman Jeff Pangburn and Vice Chairman Bob Seward III. The acting Chairman is Tom Calamaras. He was the Chairman until the Langley/DeFruscio January Organizational Meeting. Calamaras is a good guy and a straight shooter who won't be easily bullied by Langley.
      Good luck to all the Gadflys and thanks for trying to put the town on the right track.

      Delete
    6. So let me get this straight. Both the zoning board Chair and Vice Chair have recused themselves from the biggest project in the history of East Greenbush! Who, in the East Greenbush Government DOESN'T have have a conflict of interest or hold property options on the proposed casino site?
      This looks like governmental collusion and corruption on a very large scale.
      The Attorney General's Public Integrity Bureau certainly would have a lot of issues to investigate, if they choose to do so.And so would Times-Union Columnist, Fred LeBrun.

      Delete
    7. Dear No Langley 2015:
      Thanks for the information. I'll be sure to ask for an explanation for the recusals at the next Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on October, 14th.
      Be well,
      Tom

      Delete
  86. They can't even own up to it?! Thank you for explaining! This is how our town is in this much debt! Well maybe, since our own town officials have no clue our fiscal state. They have tried to beat us down, and they have failed at every desperate approach. (dear Gilbert and crew) They call us NIMBYS, and yet when I followed and commented with other no casino residents of other proposed sites I was questioned and mocked. I am not a NIMBY in that I sympathize with anyone who feels the way we do. I'm not a NIMBY in that I am against any casino under this legislation and a government that promotes it. No I am not against casino's in general. I go back to the government promoting it for two simple reasons: (1) they know how the casino industry works, and (2) they shouldn't be ok encouraging the residents they represent and look after to throw their money down the slots so they can get rich and cover their corruptive debt. I'll move on from the economic viewpoint, most kids know this part. Yes I am a NIMBY because I don't support a casino in my backyard and place I call home, East Greenbush. Oh, to debunk some other ridiculousness, I DO support growth, which is why I am a NIMBY for the Capital View Casino.

    ReplyDelete
  87. So was there a secret agenda for the secret meeting(posted yesterday) for the Ethics Board? Where was the meeting held? When I drove by Town Hall at 6:50 last evening there was not one car outside. On the agenda was listed the word ...complaints. What happened Ed?

    ReplyDelete
  88. Anonymous 12:09 and Gadfly -

    Section 7 (b) of the Town Code of Ethics requires that officials "shall state the reason [for recusal] on the record before the board or department of which he or she is a member." The recused ZBA members must make an official statement listing their reason(s) for recusal and it should be published in the minutes. In case, this process hasn't been followed both members should be informed and if they don't comply they are subject to review by the Board of Ethics. Since we don't actually have a Board of Ethics this really depend on the two members doing the right thing. I think they will if they are alerted to this provision in the Code.

    ReplyDelete