Posts
I'm sure that you've been bombarded by analysis from Tuesday's Re-Zoning Hearing for the Lighthouse Project, but I figured that one more couldn't hurt. I apologize that it's now Friday and I'm finally getting around to this post (two jobs and going full-time to school can hinder some thought processes).
The Town Board was "cordial" and "polite"...for all of about 5 minutes. I have no idea how the writers from Newsday, which is owned by Cablevision, who owns MSG, which in turn owns the Rangers, got such a different perspective on the proceedings. It was clear from the get-go that those who supported the Lighthouse Project would be limited in their ability to speak their minds. However, on the flip side, those who were ardently opposed to the Project either due to concerns about the water, the traffic, the height of the buildings or what have you, were getting more than their fair share of time in front of the Board.
At one point during the morning session, it seemed that Garden City's representatives (the most outspoken opponent to the Lighthouse Project or any development for that matter) which included the Mayor, Trustee's, Eastern Property Association members and the like, were given ample time (and were grouped TOGETHER, one after the other for the better part of the morning session) to voice their opinions. However, when Nick from Let There Be Light(house) stepped to the podium (as was pointed out in Islanders Point Blank) he was held to a very strict 2 minutes of speaking time. What were the motives for that I wonder?
**Side Note**: It is only a small minority of citizens and civic leaders that are opposed to the Lighthouse Project in Garden City. Please don't take anything said in relation to Garden City's opposition to infer that the majority of citizens living there are against the Project. It is very much the opposite. Many in Garden City believe the Lighthouse Project to be a positive for all Long Island even in it's current iteration.
What struck me the most while I sat in silence in the back of the room was the absolute disdain that the Town Board exhibited toward Charles Wang, Scott Rechler and their consultants. Councilman Santino, in particular was downright belligerent at times with the Traffic Consultant for the Lighthouse Project, Bob Eschbacher. Meanwhile, the others on the Board simply sat indifferent to the proceedings although sometimes asking half-assed questions about hypothetical situations like people backing out of their driveway on a busy street (that's already choked with traffic during rush hour), what would happen if someone ran a red light that doesn't even exist yet or the that height and density of the buildings is a concern because it will seem too much like "The City". If they actually took the time, the Lighthouse Project provided those observations and data in with the voluminous 6,500+ pages of the DGEIS on February 24th!
Unfortunately, I was in class for the dramatic conclusion of the "Traffic Analysis" by the Town Board, so I didn't get to see Charles Wang lose his cool after several hours of interrogation of Bob Eschbacher. What I took away from the whole argument was that the traffic mitigation measures (which were approved by State DOT and DWP) were more geared to roadways leading to the site than actual roads in and around the proposed construction area. Improvements to the Meadowbrook Parkway and Hempstead Tpke. and the roads 1/2 mile from the site and beyond are the State and Town's responsibility and the Lighthouse is merely providing the data, analysis and suggestions to ease the traffic burden(public transportation) to better serve the area in which they're building. Only one Town Board member (I apologize, I didn't catch who it was) pointed out that it was more important to the process to discuss roadways that directly affected the Lighthouse site as opposed to mitigation measures on roadways that would lead to the site (think about the entrance ramp onto the Meadowbrook Pkwy. from the Southern State, which Councilman Santino espoused about for nearly half an hour).
Furthermore, I'd like to address the water and sewage concerns, which are not to be taken lightly at all. If I have my facts straight, the Lighthouse Development Group has entered into negotiations with Nassau Community College (where I'm presently enrolled) to build a well near the Hempstead Plains on the eastern edge of campus. Why exactly, would the lease need to be hammered out for that portion of construction BEFORE the Town Board has even approved the final scope of the Project as a whole? Councilman Santino seemed to think that the well needed to be approved ahead of the rest of the Project (somehow subverting the entire State mandated process). Nice of you to make that clear for us there Santino!
With that said, the consulting company for water distribution and sewage removal, H2M, which is contracted both by the Lighthouse Group AND the Town of Hempstead, went into some detail as to the most recent data concluded. Currently, the area is running at 1 million gallons surplus and the Lighthouse, once fully constructed in 10 years or so, would only draw 0.8% of the total water supply! Pretty damning stuff that the Board was more than a little irked about as they asked the same question of the consultant in about 20 different ways.
In my conclusion, as well as others, this hearing was nothing more than political grandstanding. The Town Board was clearly ticked about the very well-publicized and blatant "shot across the bow" that was the Kansas City pre-season game and they made sure to exact some public revenge. More than once, Board members seemed to be patting themselves on the back, smiling to themselves with an air of, "I just asked an intelligent question that will probably stump this analyst and make the LDG look like a bunch of fools". Not only only were some of the questions wreaking of ignorance, at times they bordered on immature banter to satisfy personal ego.
With all the public politics out of the way, it's time to get down to the real business. It has been a proper assumption since this process started that the Lighthouse would look nothing like the original plans once all was said and done. Now is the time for compromise. It's not unusual for a developer to shoot for the moon and then work out a deal with the municipality to scale back parts of a project. That's how real estate works.
Will the towers be 450ft. once they're completed? Probably not. Personally, I think they'll be just a bit taller or shorter than Nassau County Medical Center (2 miles to the East). Will the roadways be able to handle the increased daily traffic to and from the site? It's very likely that there will be initial growing pains. However, once completed, I believe that the measures being hashed out now will be a great help to mitigating traffic in the surrounding area and beyond. Will the Lighthouse be a destination for all those living on and visiting Long Island? Absolutely.
For all the politics, I still believe that the Town of Hempstead knows the kind of spot they're in. The public overwhelmingly supports the Project and they're jobs are on the line if they don't come through. On top of that, the Lighthouse Group submitted nearly 5,000 pages of FGEIS which was supposed to have been completed BY THE TOWN and their consultant FP Clark. However, due to the events earlier this month, the SEQRA mandated deadline of September 18th came and went. Now is the time to sit down and work out the details in a civil manner. Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and finally BUILD THE LIGHTHOUSE!
**Side Note #2**: It has come to my attention that the Lighthouse Group approached the Town of Hempstead following the Re-Zoning Hearing in an attempt to come to a compromise. As of yesterday, the Town of Hempstead had refused to sit down and discuss the options.
Today, however, reports filtered out of the Town of Hempstead that they were preparing to offer the Lighthouse Group a scaled-down version of the Project. I'm not totally convinced that this is the case but it seems logical from the standpoint that the Town of Hempstead certainly understands what kind of support the Project has and still is receiving. We shall see.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Is That A Light at the End of the Tunnel or a Freight Train?
Friday, September 11, 2009
Remembering a Day That Will Never Be Forgotten and Looking Toward the Future
I'm sorry that I haven't been around much this summer to write. Things in my life have turned from hectic to damn near apocalyptic as I've decided to go back to school full time, work at my current job, keep my reffing up (which consequently starts this weekend) and write for this blog. With all the hubbub going on, something had to fall to the wayside and unfortunately for my fans and avid readers, the blog took the biggest brunt of my inability to focus on one thing. For that I apologize.
As the season approaches and the Islanders prepare for Training Camp, which begins tomorrow, I'd like to take a solemn moment to remember the lives that were lost on that fateful day eight years ago:
September 11, 2001 will always be an indellible date in my mind for as long as I live. I will always remember where I was and what I was doing. I will mourn those lives that were lost and those families and friends that were plunged into darkness by the actions of those who filled their hearts with hate. Today is a day that will remain in my memory for those who have risked their lives for our country and our way of life. This is the day that will never be forgotten...
Islanders Related Material
I know things have begun to awaken as the season approaches and I just wanted to clue you in on what will be going on here at Official's Outlook as well as Lighthouse Hockey.
1) With the decision to dissolve the radio broadcasts for the Islanders and move to simulcast, the NYI Blog Box has decided to try and delve into the world of Podcasts. Be on the look out for an announcement from me on when this ball will get rolling. I can promise you that I will try my hardest to get the NYI Blog Box Radio Show off the ground before the season opener.
2) The Lighthouse Project has reached a tipping point in its ongoing political struggle with the Town of Hempstead. Things are still looking up, but your help is still needed to persuade the lawmakers to do what is right and necessary for the residents of Long Island. We still need to stand firm on our support for the Lighthouse.
3) Training Camp begins tomorrow. The season is upon us. John Tavares is about to finally step on the ice as an official member of the New York Islanders. The future looks bright. Let's hope that this year is another of building chemistry and progressing the rebuild.
Finally,
4) I will be splitting my time between this site and Lighthouse Hockey. I'm not sure exactly what I will be covering over there, but I urge you to check out the site and post your comments, thoughts and ideas. Dom runs a really cutting edge operation and I hope to provide him with even more ammunition as the season gets under way.
I know that I've been remiss over the summer and I'm looking to right the ship as my own future gets a fresh start. Keep your ears and eyes open. Things on just about every front are going to bust wide open...very soon. I hope everyone had a pleasant and relaxing summer, but now it's time to get down to business.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Welcome: We'll Leave the Light(house) On!
After all the posturing over the past two years, the anti-climatic nature of the Public Hearing on August 4th overshadowed the huge crossroads the Project has arrived at. Many a powerful voice came out in support of the Lighthouse including principal developer Charles Wang, former Islander greats Bobby Nystrom and Mike Bossy, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and local politicians and community leaders. However, I'm more concerned about those who have spoken out AGAINST the Project. What are the issues that they want examined?
After the jump, I have a special treat for you guys: A slide show of the pictures I took at the Rally and the Public Hearing. Be sure to check it out...
This was a comment I posted over at James Mirtle's From the Rink in response to a post about concerns that were being raised by those in opposition of the Lighthouse Project. You can read his whole article and the myriad of other comments here.
1) Environmental Concerns
Here’s the issue. The State mandated process for Environmental Impact Survey is to DETERMINE ANY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE THAT WILL EFFECT THE OVERALL FOOTPRINT OF THE PROJECT. The reason that this process is so drawn out is due to the fact that many agencies, most importantly the Town of Hempstead, must review each and every area of concern before moving into the Final Environmental Impact Study. Water, sewage and conservation of the Hempstead Plains area are all included in the DGEIS that was submitted in February. Remember, THINGS ARE NOT FINALIZED! Nor will they be until the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County and the State of NY have done their due dilligence as far as reviewing each and every inch of the proposed site.
Another thing to note is that the proposed construction site, what amounts to an abandoned parking lot (at least during the summer), the surrounding buildings (RexCorp Plaza on the South side of Hempstead Tpke., the Omni Building to the North and the Marriott Hotel which sits on the extreme East of the site are ALL OWNED BY THE LIGHTHOUSE DEVELOPMENT GROUP! The only piece of land that is not owned by them is the 77 acres where the Coliseum sits.
2) Development in a County that doesn’t develop
No offense to anyone else who has commented so far on this topic, but you simply don’t have the same perspective that I do. I live here. I’m in the thick of it everyday. Nassau County has no available land to develop. It’s a simple fact that really hampers the status quo. Neighborhood after neighborhood of Suburbia has created more TRAFFIC, SEWAGE CONCERNS and ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT than the Lighthouse will in 25 years. The idea is to build to conform to environmental GREEN standards. The Lighthouse is needed to create a new status quo, a “New Suburbia”.
I’m 25 years old. Don’t I deserve a place to live? Finding an apartment on Long Island below $1000 is a challenge at best. What’s wrong with placing a series of “below-market housing”, not “welfare-housing” as someone stated before, next to luxury condos? These units will be utilized by people my age, between 25-34, to stay in a County that is only comprised of 8% of people in that age group. There are no jobs, no place to live and no where to go but off Long Island.
3) Who pays?
This is an issue that can’t even be a concern at this point. For the Lighthouse Development Group, yes. But not for the general public. Funding isn’t even going to be discussed until the Re-Zoning Hearing which is far off in the distance as far as the process goes. Whether the money comes from China or bank loans as I’ve heard directly from some inside in the LDG, it doesn’t matter. This is the ultimate Republican wet dream: A developer (big business) who’s willing to pay for 99% of a development project. You tell me where else you’ve heard that before? Please remember, this is not going to be built in a day. This is an 8-10 year build out process. The money will not be needed all at once. From what I know the $400 million for the Coliseum is the only guaranteed number right now.
Many of you ask: “What’s is Charles Wang’s motive for building this development project?” Allow me to answer that for you.
Charles is has been losing $20 million+ a year on a team since 2000. The lease that Nassau County has for the site is overseen by a third party company that maintains the building called SMG (the same people who take care of Nationwide Arena in Columbus). The lease is so restraining, that the only pure profit the Islanders receive is from their merchandise and their TV deal. Major percentages (in some cases up to 90%) of tickets, parking and concessions all go to SMG and the current lease extends until 2015. If the LDG builds the Project then the lease is re-negotiated to better favor keeping the team on Long Island.
Also of note, Nassau County which loses $1.5 million on the site a year, stands to gain $60-$70 million in fresh tax revenue annually. The Uniondale School District, which will end up enrolling a significant amount of new students just struck a deal with LDG that will pay them huge sums of money (somewhere in the range of $26 million) to fund revitalization of the District.
If you still think that Charles Wang is only the owner of the Islanders to build the Lighthouse then you are seriously mistaken. If you read any newspaper articles from when Wang bought the team in 2000, you’ll find that Nassau County was promising the new owner a new building in 5-7 years. Nassau Coliseum is in disrepair and is no longer viable to contain a major sports franchise.
Not only will this Project be a reason to keep the Islanders where they belong, but it will be a catalyst to the region. New tax revenues, jobs and the opportunity to keep the younger generation around long enough to utilize the tax dollars that are spent on them to educate them on Long Island will be a significant boon the the local economy. After the Lighthouse is constructed, these younger people (myself included) will be re-insert back into the work force and be a part of the “New Suburbia” the Lighthouse will create.
Things That Make You Go...Hmmm"I believe community outreach was really the key to the success of the hearing and rally today. But I realize, you can't reach everyone. I was very sad to hear from a woman who was 'horrified' by the project and how things were not on the up-and-up informing the community on its impacts. When I attempted to offer her an outreach meeting, or to even bring her in to discuss the project, she declined and refused to tell me who she was."
The Light Post: Official Blog of the Lighthouse Project
It's amazing to me how those opposed to the Lighthouse Project try to justify their claims of opposition with little to no information and then simply turn away from any attempt to help them understand the finer points involved in the Project.
Final Takeaway
This was a huge event in the process of getting the Lighthouse Project approved. If I'm not mistaken, about 90% of those who came to the Public Hearing were in favor of the Project. It's about time that people who are out of work and watch other towns around North America re-develop and start with a fresh slate, get their chance at a new beginning.
The fight is not over. Our resolve must stay as focused as ever. The Public Comment period ends on August 17th. Keep the pressure on. We need to see this through...
Monday, August 3, 2009
Our Time has Come...
It's been a hard month and half for me blogging-wise to really come up with new content. I'm not really one to just re-hash the news or try to tread on others turf. Let's just say that I hit a creative impasse as far as things to write about.
Well, now I can safely say: "I'M BACK!"
There are so many things that I've been thinking about for weeks to share with you. The Lighthouse Project, the Rookie Scrimmage, as well as recent signings and moves within the organization.
Let me touch on a these subjects beginning with the most important one: The Lighthouse.
It has been a long time coming that we've finally found ourselves on the precipice of a decision. Many of my fellow bloggers have written hundreds of posts about the issue we face and I'd like to acknowledge their efforts. Please, I urge you to visit The Light Post: The Lighthouse Project's Official Blog written by Katrina Doell whose tireless efforts to not only inform the public through the blog and Twitter have been so vital to the education of people interested in the project. Let There be Light(house) by Nick Giglia has also contributed his own brand of eloquent writing and extremely detailed factual information that has lead to explicit understanding of the project and participation throughout our communities. Last but certainly not least, my fellow Blog Boxers, Dee Karl, who writes for both her site, Unique Perspectives of the 7th Woman and for HockeyBuzz, Mike Schuerlein of Islesblogger and several others who have been proponents of the project as long as I can remember as well as mentors to me and an amazing force within Islander Country.
The time has come for YOU, the people of Long Island and around the world, to contribute your voices and your opinions to the building of the Lighthouse Project. Above this post, you'll find banners dedicated to the Rally and March, the Public Hearing and How to Send Comments to the Town of Hempstead regarding the Lighthouse Project. Let your voices be heard as well as your presence felt. Your contribution is vital to the process.
As I stated back in March, right here and now is an unprecedented time in our lives. Back then, as now, history is unfolding right in front of our eyes. What makes this kind of history so special is that we can mold it how we choose. People like you and I have the opportunity to use our voices to move mountains and change policies.
Now, is our time.
Tomorrow, August 4th, 2009 is the most important day that we can show our support for the Lighthouse Project. At 8AM a rally will gather in the Nassau Coliseum Parking Lot 8 to show the world our unwavering endorsement of a project that will help be the catalyst for our well-being as community well into the 21st century. Howie Rose will emcee the event and will introduce special guest speakers who will include NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Lighthouse Project Principal and Islanders owner Charles Wang. Islanders Alumni, many local elected officials and current Islanders current Islanders Josh Bailey and Joel Rechlicz, will be on hand showing their support for the huge development project.
At 8:45AM, the "Just Build It!" march will begin towards the John Cranford Adams Playhouse on the Hofstra campus located across the street. The main hearing will begin at 9:30AM. So if you can't make it to the rally or the march, please try and show your support at the hearing as this will be our final chance to really give those charged with approval an idea of our passion towards the goal of getting a shovel in the ground.
I'm so excited to be a part of this momentous occasion. I've been waiting for this moment in history and can't imagine how this will change my future. If you haven't already, please read this post that I wrote back in February that showcases exactly how I felt then and as I still feel now. I can't begin to replicate the prose that I wrote in that post. It's a piece of writing that is very special to me and describes my passion and desire for this project to the best of my ability.
Isles Notes and Quotes
I have a bulk of material on last month's Rookie Scrimmage. I have plenty of pictures and insight to share and just simply didn't have the impetus to get it all on here. I promise you that you'll see it as soon as I can possibly get all the ideas out of my mind and on to the computer.
I'll also be including some insights into the recent RFA signings of Jack Hillen and Nate Thompson, the hiring of assistant coach Scott Allen, as well as the contract negotiations of Blake Comeau and Matt Martin. There have been plenty of rumors floating around the Isles as well but these need to be put on the back-burner for now.
It's gonna be hard to stay completely on hockey since the Lighthouse Project really deserves to dominate the news. Things are moving along but the work is not done. WE MUST STAY FOCUSED!. We must show up in force to prove to those in political power that the people desire a new economic engine on Long Island. Now is not the time to divert our attention elsewhere! This is the only issue that we as citizens of Long Island need to be concerned with. I hope to see you there tomorrow!
Cheers!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
One Small Step for the Lighthouse, but No Giant Leap...Yet
Today was a landmark day for the future of the Lighthouse Project. In a unanimous vote, the Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement was deemed ready for the Public Comments period. Mind you (and my friend Nick over at Let There Be Light(house) will be sure to correct me if I mess this up. LOL!), this is only the first small step to getting a shovel in the ground.
In this Public Comments period, any concerned citizens, politicians, surrounding towns, businesses and the like will be able to weigh in on their issues with the project and final tweaks will be made to the EIS. Here is the post that just went up on LighthouseLI.com (the official site of the Lighthouse Project):
Lighthouse DGEIS deemed complete by Town of Hempstead Board
Jul 7, 2009
Today, the Town of Hempstead Town Board voted unanimously on a resolution to deem the Draft Generic Environmental Studies for the Lighthouse at Long Island project complete.
The original application for a Planned Development District was submitted on November 17, 2007, with the final scope of studies finalized on February 24, 2009. The Lighthouse Development Group submitted the first round of studies on April 28, 2009.
This resolution now opens an official public comment period, and a public hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at the John Cranford Adams Playhouse at Hofstra University. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. The public comment period will be open until August 17, 2009.
The public hearing will be the time for anyone and everyone to let their voice be heard on the project.
It's imperative that we as supporters of the Lighthouse Project keep up the pressure on our local politicians in not only the Town of Hempstead but also in Nassau County and New York State. This project will not just effect the Uniondale/Garden City/Hempstead area; This Project will effect all Long Islanders. Revel in this small victory for now, but it'll be time to get back to work tomorrow when the Public Comment period officially opens.
As you can see in the release, there is a meeting on August 4th at the John Cranford Adams Playhouse at Hofstra at 9:30AM. I know I'll be there and you should plan to be there too. If we show up in numbers it will personify the support that this project has throughout our respective communities.
It's One Small Step...but we're not there yet.
Note: I joked before on my Twitter feed about the zoning applications being approved EARLY and Nick almost had a heart attack. Just wanted to publicly apologize and state yet again that this process is far from over. Keep yourself up-to-date on all the Lighthouse Project news at both the Official Site and Let There Be Light(house).
Cheers, folks!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Did Someone Say...."Progress"?!!
First and foremost, I would like to take the opportunity to thank Supervisor Kate Murray for coming in and sitting down with the Lighthouse Group and Planning Council. I'm sure that it wasn't easy (especially since Charles Wang and Kate Murray sat no more than two seats from each other in front of the Council) but she handled the pressure well and was amicable throughout.
Second, I'd like to point out the perseverance and dedication that Charles Wang has to Long Island and it's residents. Many have suggested that the Lighthouse is "dead-in-the-water" and the Islanders should be looking for other alternatives to their current location. To those people, I say, "You have never spoken to Charles Wang." Mr. Wang is doing everything in his power to keep the Islanders right where they are and his considerable dedication to the team and its fans is more than conspicuous as well as generous. The man just loves Long Island and is prepared to do anything to bring the place we live into the 21st century.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to acknowledge the overwhelming support the Lighthouse Project received from the Regional Planning Council. It was obvious from the get-go of the question and answer period that the Council had no intentions of humoring the same political rhetoric that has surrounded the mega-project over the past several months. They questioned Supervisor Murray and her aides directly over many of the issues that are facing this project at present. It was very refreshing and certainly a major victory for the Lighthouse Development Group and Long Island residents as a whole.
I will be back on later to get you guys some quotes from today's proceedings but first I need to run to some pre-Draft discussions with my compatriots.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Linking to the Lighthouse; Nastiness and Retiring for the Last Time
Since I wasn't able to attend Kate Murray's re-election kickoff at the Levittown Veteran's Memorial Park, I'd like to acknowledge those who did and give them the credit they're due.
- Let There Be Light(house) proprietor Nick Giglia wrote two really good pieces on yesterday's proceedings on both his site and BD Gallof's Islanders Independent.
- Our friend 7th Woman, as always, has her unique take on things with this article. As well as some really great quotes.
- I can't forget the "Blogfather" Chris Botta, who was also able to attend the event and get a few juicy quotes from Joseph Ra, ToH Attorney.
- Lastly, I'd like to show you the Newsday coverage of the rally. Apparently Joseph Mondello, head of the NY State Republican Party, REALLY doesn't like Islanders fans.
- I'd also like to acknowledge that some $40/hour jobs after you've retired and collected severance and a pension are about as secure as your daughter's hopes of retaining her current office if she keeps up her current stance.
I'd also like to thank some of the most ardent and perservering Islanders fans/Lighthouse Supporters/Long Island residents/Fellow Voters/Peers.
Like Joe Conte, who defiantly defended his right to free speech and even got Mondello off his game, causing the seasoned politician to tell him, "Blow it out your duffle bag!"
These are the kinds of people and reactions that voters need to see. Let this be a notice to all those who oppose the Lighthouse Project:
We who support the Lighthouse will not go away lightly or quietly... This, I promise you.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Random Thoughts About Living on Long Island
As I sit here, I think to myself how this whole thing is going to work. It's bad enough that the country as a whole is in an economic downturn, but on top of that I live on LONG ISLAND. One of the most highly taxed and expensive places to live in same said economically challenged country. What the hell is a 25 year old, still looking for what he wants to do with the rest of his life, supposed to do when rent is still through the roof and the opportunities to even find a place haven't improved since the 80's? Live at home...that's what. Where you have to fight with your parents over getting a cable box for the TV in your room because they don't want to pay the Dolan's another cent (not that I can blame them). There's gotta be a better way to go about this. This is what it used to look like This is what it needs to look like
I've been saying to my friend who works for the Lighthouse Development Group that I've been waiting patiently for my affordable housing for over three years (since I graduated from Stony Brook). If the ToH thinks they're going to take that away from me they're out of their minds. Yes, it would be fantastic to have a renovated Coliseum but frankly, there is no feasible economic way that anything could make money when the lease is still in SMG's hands. Thus, officials and employees of the Town have to quit sipping that KoolAid. For real.
What is needed on Long Island is a forward-thinking project that will not only enhance the public image of the place we live but to make it more livable. THE SUBURBS DON'T WORK IF YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO LIVE THERE! When Levittown was built in the 1950's, the cost to own a home was $7,990! Now, you could pay that much in 6 months worth in rent.
Needless to say, living on Long Island for anyone who doesn't have an established and well-paying job is extremely difficult.
Enter the Mixed-Use Development.
Here comes the argument from the Town of Hempstead that the Lighthouse Group is trying to overdevelop, scar, maim and destroy suburban peace and prosperity. Oh, no! We're turning into Queens! NOOOOO! NOT IN MY BACKYARD!!
My question to those NIMBY's out there is: "What happens when the same Town of Hempstead, that is 'protecting' your way of life by stonewalling an idea that would bring revenue and business into the community, raises your property taxes? How are you going to afford to live where you are now, then?" Without the influx of young, eager, hard-working (and yes, possibly Liberal {gasp!}) people our Island will DIE! Do you get that?!
I've had to plan on leaving my home since I was applying for colleges 7 years ago. I was born and raised for 25 years on this Island and I can't live here much longer because it's simply too expensive. The average one-bedroom apartment goes for $1000+ a month folks. Plus, you have to drive everywhere which costs money. In gas alone you could spend upwards of $450/month (when gas was over $4.00 a gallon and I have a rather gas efficient vehicle).
A mixed-use development would offer people my age to stay on the Island and prosper because we could work, live and play in the same 5 mile radius. On top of that, there would be public transportation for wherever you would need to go. Imagine the amount of money and traffic congestion that would be saved if there were more buses and trolley's (running on either electric or natural gas) instead of taxis and cars. Not only would it be more "Green" (the buzzword for the next century) but more efficiently conducted. Traffic patterns would be more regulated, money would be saved and the environment would be preserved. I don't see a problem here.
In closing, I'd like to point out the absolute disregard the Town of Hempstead has for it's constituency. When those who live in the Town of Hempstead could be prospering from new jobs and new revenue streams, it's your representatives, the people YOU elected to office, who are standing in your way. Let your voices be heard loud and clear. Now is the time to stop this petty back and forth and just get the damn thing started.
Kate Murray has denigrated the office she now holds. This falls on her shoulders and her political career. By not showing even the tact to speak publicly (isn't that what politicians are supposed to do?) either for or against the Lighthouse, she has created doubt in many people's minds that she is fit to lead anymore.
It's perfectly okay to have your father who just retired with a $40,000+ pension every year, be re-hired by his "loving" daughter the next day, at a similar job, FOR 3x THE GOING WAGE, but then not attend a meeting set-up by the Labor Unions that work in your Town to try and come to a resolution of sorts. That is despicable.
I'm done ranting for now. Check back in the next day or so for my thoughts on the Assistant Coaching changes going on around the NY Islanders and for more about the Draft and Lighthouse.
Please don't forget to check in to my buddy Nick's LetThereBeLight(house) or The Official Blog of the Lighthouse Project: The Light Post, for updates. Nick and Katrina have some great information to educate yourself and others on the goings-on of the Lighthouse.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The Empire Strikes Again and the 2009 NHL Draft Contest
A short time ago...in a Town not that far away... You are part of the Lighthouse Development Group and a Traitor! TAKE HER AWAY! I have a bad feeling about this...WHO NEEDS THIS? Uhh...WE NEED THIS!
The Galactic Empire ruled by Kate "Darth" Murray and the ToH finally secured a foothold last month on the issue of the Death Star Lighthouse Project. It was clear that the "leaders" over there wanted nothing to do with possibly the biggest kick-in-the-pants that Long Island will ever have during this economic downturn. Instead, Darth Murray and her hoards of Storm Trooper lackeys decided they wanted to start a grassroots "uprising" against the Rebel Alliance led by Charles "Skywalker" Wang and Scott "I'm Goin' Solo" Rechler. This would be no ordinary war...this would be a war for survival.
What this really means to Long Island is that the months ahead will be a dangerous and arduous trek through the asteroid fields known as Long Island Partisan Politics. Politicians are a devious bunch and cannot be trusted. Their Dark Jedi mind tricks are capable of dissuading the masses from ultimate freedom and prosperity.
Sunday's Newsday Cover had plenty to say for how powerful these "Dark Lords" really are in the latest blow to Lighthouse supporter confidence:
This can only mean one thing. The Empire is beginning to tip the scales in its favor in the battle of attrition known as the State mandated review process for development of the Coliseum property. The leader of the Alliance is unhappy with the sloth-like pace of the Empire and would like to end the conflict quickly and amicably. However, wars cannot be fought without the proper amount of funds. The Alliance is bleeding the necessary capital to keep the dream alive despite having plenty of support. Time and patience are fading into the abyss.
Back to reality for now. What truly amazes me is that for some reason I remember hearing the same clips and phrases sometime last month...hmmm. How about 4/15, when Charles Wang was a guest on Boomer Esiason's morning WFAN radio show?
Ahh, how I love sensationalist journalism. Anything to make a quick buck, eh Newsday (who's owned by Cablevision who also owns the Rangers). I had a feeling when the season was starting to wind down and the feeling amongst Islanders fans and Long Island residents was largely positive towards the Lighthouse Project, that it would start to grind to a halt and become a deadly battle of he said, she said during the spring and summer months. All the while, Long Island's newspaper would be right there to cover every verbal barb with an unbiased Ha! Yeah, right! eye. Maybe we need to get some real investigative reporting done considering those who don't even get paid to do it know where to dig.
Brace yourselves, for the worst is yet to come. I'm not saying the end is near because it most certainly isn't. However, things are starting to look pretty bleak as far as actually getting a shovel in the ground sooner rather than 25 years later. Step away from the ledge...for now.
On to brighter news. The Islanders have begun the Who's Your Pick Contest to allow fans to voice their opinion on who the team should select as the Numero Uno Draft Pick in this year's Draft.
Come join New York Islanders management and some of your favorite Bloggers: Islesblogger Mike, Tiger Track Tom, OkposoNet Ken and Myself at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Everyone has an opinion about who the Islanders should select with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Now, you can have your voice be heard by Islanders General Manager Garth Snow—and win a fantastic trip!
The Islanders' “Who’s YOUR Pick?" sweepstakes gives fans a chance to share who they think the Islanders should select with their top pick. The sweepstakes begins on Monday, May 4 and concludes on Thursday, May 28 at 5 pm. Eight lucky fans will win a trip for two to attend the Draft in Montreal, which will be held on Friday, June 26.
“What better way to allow our fans to voice their opinion,” Snow said. “We appreciate the fans dedication and passion and are glad we can give them the chance to experience the excitement first hand with us in Montreal.”
To enter the sweepstakes fans can fill out the ballot by visiting the Islanders website or one of the Islanders Team Stores—at the Broadway Mall in Hicksville, Westfield Sunrise Mall in Massapequa and Islanders Iceworks in Syosset—or the Islanders Kiosk at Roosevelt Field Mall. There is no purchase necessary to enter the sweepstakes.
The winner’s package will include:
- Round trip airfare for two from NYC to Montreal
- Hotel accommodations
- Tickets to the 2009 NHL Entry Draft on June 26
- Meet & Greet with the Islanders No. 1 pick
Promotional partner WMJC Radio will announce two winners per week for four consecutive weeks, beginning Friday morning May 8 on "The WMJC Most Music Morning Show," hosted by Phathead.
“This is truly an exciting time to be an Islanders fan and we’re delighted to provide them the chance to be a part of this once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Islanders President Chris Dey. “We appreciate our fans embracing the team the way that they have. We are on pace to renew nearly 90% of our season tickets and new sales are also tracking well.”
The Islanders won the right to the first pick overall by winning the NHL’s Draft Lottery, held on April 14 at the League’s New York City office.
This marks the fourth time in franchise history that the Islanders have held the first overall selection in the NHL Draft. The last time the Islanders had the first overall selection was in 2000 when the team selected goaltender Rick DiPietro. The other first overall selections were Billy Harris in 1972 and Denis Potvin in 1973.
FANS ARE LIMITED TO ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD.
Click here to read the sweepstakes' official rules.
(Photos courtesy of DarthVader1.com and Newsday.com)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
I Couldn't Have Said It Any Better Myself.....On April Fool's No Less!
(Photo courtesy of BD over at IslandersIndependent.com)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
An "Unprecedented" Time in Our Lives
Last night, I attended the 180th Community Outreach Meeting conducted by the Lighthouse Development Group along with about 1,000 other supporters, politicians and sports figures. I went in with a clear mind as to what topics would be covered and I was not disappointed. The only thing that I regret not hearing about was any opposition to the project. Now please, don't jump to conclusions. I'm completely behind the Lighthouse Project 110%. However, I'm interested in hearing the reasons for people to be against a project such as the Lighthouse. The Lighthouse will effect every Long Islander's life and it's important to garner as much input as possible before hopefully moving forward and getting a shovel in the ground.
A little after 7:00 PM, Charles Wang, Scott Rechler, President of the Lighthouse Development Group, Michael Picker and Nassau County Exec Tom Suozzi all took to the stage to answer as many questions they could in a two hour period.
Mr. Wang began by acknowledging the event as the 180th Community Meeting and referring to it as "unprecedented" that the number of meetings had been reached. Frankly, the sheer number of community meetings that the Lighthouse Group has conducted is staggering. They've done everything in their power to inform the public about the inner workings of the project and what their plans are to move forward.
"Why haven't you started it yet?"
That's a question that Mr. Wang has had to face for quite some time. We all know by now that the state has very stringent laws about how building developments and especially one this size have to be approved. There simply is no way around it. Several times last night, Mr. Wang was his acknowledged for his "patience, vision and passion" to get the project done. Charles in turn replied, "Don't bet against us on Long Island" to rousing applause.
County Executive Suozzi tempered the joyous mood by listing the major problems that Nassau County is facing and how the Lighthouse would be a great starting point to resolving these four issues:
- Property Taxes
- Young People Moving Away or Not Coming to LI
- Traffic
- Pockets of Poverty that have been left for far too long
I believe Scott Rechler, Head Developer of the Lighthouse Project, put it best:
"We are losing the future of Long Island. This is about competing to keep companies coming to Long Island and bringing young people in who want to work on Long Island."
"When companies are looking, they're not looking to Long Island. They can't find a young workforce who want to come to Long Island because they can't find the type of housing, the type of lifestyle that they want to live by. Instead, they go to places like White Plains, Hoboken or other parts of New Jersey. LONG ISLAND IS NOT EVEN ON THE MAP!"
This is the reality that people my age face. I've even resigned my fate to somewhere off of this Island where I was born and raised. It's simply a fact of life. However, a project such as the Lighthouse would provide ample opportunities for people to find jobs and affordable housing that will be required in what has been termed as "new suburbia".
Last night was an endless parade of supporters, local political figures and sports legends. Each of them voiced their support and many asked what could possibly be done by the public to get the project moving at a quicker pace. Unfortunately, there really is no answer for that issue. County Executive Tom Suozzi made it clear that we would know about the next step "by early to mid-April" and that the process will hopefully be progressing at a faster rate following that milestone (approval of the Environmental Impact Statement by the Town of Hempstead and their issuance of a Negative Declaration. Please see my friend Nick's site, Let There Be Light(house) for a Glossary of Terms used in the approval process).
Correction: My astute friend Nick, the proprietor of Let There Be Light(house),had to set me straight on some of the terminology that I alluded to. Guess I need to read his Decoding the SEQR Series Part 1 and Part 2 again.The Lighthouse will truly be "Long Island's own Stimulus Package". This is the point in Long Island history where the public needs to take a stand and unite in one voice to approve a project that will not only revitalize the Uniondale and Hempstead area but all of Long Island from Long Beach to Montauk. Our time has arrived and I personally plan on taking full advantage of the opportunities afforded to me by this project. I hope that someday soon I'll be able to say to my friends and family: "Meet me at the Lighthouse!"
Please take in my two previous posts on the subject: Crossroads at the El Coliseo and Meet Me at What is the Next 25 Years on Long Island for further insight.
Also, don't forget to check out the links at the right that will have numerous accounts of last night's meeting. Get them some hits as well because they are certain to have a different take than I do.
I will be back in the coming days with more notes and quotes from the Meeting. There is an enormous amount of information that came out of it and it will take more than one post to cover. Check back soon.
For Questions, Comments or General Housing Development Issues, please refer to your superintendent at DougD84@optonline.net or in the Comments section.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Meet Me at What is the Next 25 Years on Long Island
I am a Long Islander.
I was born here.
I was raised here.
I learned to have a passion for hockey here.
I am, for all intents and purposes, a part of the fabric of 1401 square miles of some of the most densely populated land on the planet.
That is why I need the Lighthouse.
All of you who read this blog and have a passion for Long Island as a whole, should ask yourself this question: "What does the Lighthouse mean to me?"
I am a young man in search of a path to call my own. It has become a reality in the years after college that I was going to have to move off this Island that I've called home for the first 24 years of my life. The unfortunate truth is the fact that young people simply cannot get a foothold here with the cost of living and the lack of alternatives that would allow me to strike out on my own.
With that being said, it is my firm belief, that if two Long Islanders in Charles Wang and Scott Rechler want to give the place I live an identity, a place to call our own and something we can be proud of, we should give them the support that is necessary.
The Lighthouse transcends anything that happens with the New York Islanders. This is about Long Island. This is about you, me and everyone that has been contacted and shown their support (nearly 180 outreach attempts have brought back a 100% acceptance of the project).
This is about 60,000 construction and 20,000 permanent jobs.
This is about a Sports Complex that will attract State Championship after State Championship for all youth sports on Long Island.
This is about an improvement to the quality of life for all of us on Long Island. With roughly $60-$70 million dollars generated in revenue each year.
This is the "Imperfect Storm" as one Lighthouse Development spokesman stated.
Without your support this whole project could fall through the political cracks like so many before it.
It's time to take a stand and make our voices heard.
Tonight 2/21/09, at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, a "white-out" will be held to show how seriously we Long Islanders are about improving our lives. This is our time. This our home.
This...is our Lighthouse.
Please show your support by coming out in full force tonight and on Tuesday 2/24/09 at 10:30AM for the Approval of the Final Scope of the Project by the Town of Hempstead. The Lighthouse Project is ready. The Environmental Impact Study is ready.
Are you ready?
