GREAT NEWS FOR NYS, GOOD RIDDANCE, JOE BRUNO Options

[Livyjr]

"Bruno won't seek reelection - Majority leader tells colleagues he's retiring"

By JAMES M. ODATO, Capitol bureau, Albany, New York Times Union

Last updated: 6:28 p.m., Monday, June 23, 2008

ALBANY -- Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno told fellow Republican senators a short time ago that he will not seek reelection, according to Republican sources.

The senator and his conference have been behind closed doors at the Capitol.

[Livyjr]

"Bruno won't seek reelection - Majority leader tells colleagues he's retiring"

By JAMES M. ODATO , Capitol bureau, and JAY JOCHNOWITZ, State editor, Albany, New York Times Union

Last updated: 7:45 p.m., Monday, June 23, 2008

ALBANY -- Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno will not seek re-election, the Brunswick Republican confirmed this evening.

Bruno's decision will end a more than three-decade career that led him to become one of the most powerful men in state government, and the defacto leader of the state Republican Party.

Insiders say Assemblyman Roy McDonald, R-Wilton, is Bruno's preferred replacement for his Senate seat, although Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen Jimino is said to be interested, too.

It also means a seat that had been considered a safe one for Republicans will not necessarily be a sure thing this fall.

With all New York lawmakers' two-year terms ending in December, Republicans are defending their narrow 32-30 majority in the Senate, the party's last stronghold in state government.

Democrats now hold the governor's post and dominate the Assembly by a 106-42 margin.

Should Bruno, 79, be followed by other older senators into retirement, the GOP would lose the power of incumbency in even more districts, further threatening the party's control of the chamber.

Who leads the Senate Republican conference next year was yet to be known.

Dean Skelos, R-Rockville the current deputy majority leader for legislative operations, has long been considered one of the most likely successors, but upstate Republicans may argue that a conference leader should come from what has traditionally been the party's base.

Bruno and his conference were meeting behind closed doors since late afteroon.

In a statement from his office, Bruno said that "After 32 years in office, I have decided that it is time to move on with my life and to give my constituents an opportunity for new representation and my colleagues in the Senate who have supported me, an opportunity for new leadership."

He also mused on his his time in public office, describing boths ups and downs.

"Public service has been a blessing for which I will be ever grateful."

"I have had the opportunity to work for and with hundreds of proud, distinguished New Yorkers."

"I have viewed my work not as a job, but as a privilege to come here day in and day out and stand up for the people of Rensselaer and Saratoga counties and stand up for the hardworking people I have come to know over the years."

He also called politics "a tough ball game."

"Tougher now than it has ever been."

Bruno said he was moving on "with a heavy heart, but an optimistic soul."

Bruno had earlier told his Republican conference and Democratic Gov. David Paterson of his decision.

Speaking with reporters, Paterson said he had no indication that Bruno's decision was connected to an ongoing FBI probe of the senator.

"He's a class act."

"He's a wonderful person."

"When he chooses the time, that time is fine," said Paterson, who was Democratic minority leader in the Senate before being elected lieutenant governor in 2006 on a ticket with Eliot Spitzer.

"It's a sad say for Albany, and for me."

Attorney General Andrew Cuomo concluded Bruno did nothing wrong under the state's lax travel rules, which were subsequently tightened.

Cuomo faulted Spitzer's aides for involving State Police in a political matter.

Bruno and Spitzer feuded for months as new information came to light on Spitzer's involvement in the records' release, and a report by District Attorney David Soares challenged Spitzer's claims that he didn't know about it.

Spitzer resigned in March after his involvement with a high-priced prostitute was revealed.

Bruno has had a quieter relationship with Paterson, the lieutanant governor who succeeded Spitzer.

[Livyjr]

"NY Senate leader Joseph Bruno won't run again"

By MICHAEL GORMLEY, Associated Press

Last updated: 7:12 p.m., Monday, June 23, 2008

ALBANY -- Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, who has run the Republican chamber for more than a dozen years, confirmed Monday that he won't seek re-election in the fall.

The 79-year-old Bruno, considered the oldest serving state legislative leader in the country, has been the state's top Republican since 2006.

Several Republican senators some of whom could seek the powerful majority leader's job, refused to comment on Bruno's decision, announced in a closed-door session on the last scheduled day of the 2008 legislative session.

Bruno has been under an FBI investigation for more than a year which appears to be looking at his business associates outside of state government.

Bruno's wife, Barbara, died in January.

They had been married more than 50 years.

"Today, I met with my Republican colleagues in the Senate and informed them that I will not be running for re-election this November," Bruno said in a prepared statement.

"After 32 years in office, I have decided that it is time to move on with my life and to give my constituents an opportunity for new representation and my colleagues in the Senate who have supported me, an opportunity for new leadership."

Bruno said he was grateful and felt blessed to be in his role so long.

"I have viewed my work not as a job, but as a privilege to come here day in and day out and stand up for the people of Rensselaer and Saratoga counties and stand up for the hardworking people I have come to know over the years," Bruno stated.

"Politics is a tough ball game."

"Tougher now than it has ever been."

"But after 32 years of many successes and a few failures, I know now more than ever, and I can say that with comfort and confidence, there is no calling greater than that of public service," Bruno stated.

Gov. David Paterson, a Harlem Democrat who has long had a close relationship with the upstate Republican, told reporters outside the Senate conference room that Bruno wants to pursue other interests in life.

"I think that it is, in some ways, a sad day for Albany and for me who would like to feel that I have a friendship with him outside of government," Paterson said.

Paterson said he didn't know if the decision had anything to do with the FBI investigation.

Paterson said he's unsure when Bruno would step down as majority leader.

Bruno's term ends Dec. 31.

------

AP Writer Valerie Bauman contributed to this report from Albany.

[Livyjr]

I know Joe Bruno as a THUG ....

GOOD RIDDANCE ...

[jeffmoskin]

I know Joe Bruno as a THUG ....

GOOD RIDDANCE ...

Be careful what you wish for. There could be worse.

[ap215]

Wow.

[Livyjr]

Be careful what you wish for.

There could be worse.

Yes, jeffmoskin ....

As always, you are correct on that score ...

And that is always a possibility ....

And if so, then we simply have to deal with it if and when it comes ....

But as to Joe Bruno, I am still glad to see him going ....

Joe has had his time in the spotlight ....

Now it is his time to head off-stage ...

For the good of the people of New York State ...

And so ....

Maybe he and Eliot Spitzer can get themselves into the "hospitality bid-ness" ...

Joe likes lap dancers, afterall ...

And so ...

[Livyjr]

"Bruno will exit arena - After 32 years in Senate, majority leader says he won't seek re-election"

By JAY JOCHNOWITZ, State editor, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Tuesday, June 24, 2008

ALBANY -- Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno will leave office at year's end, adding to the shake-up at the top echelons of state government.

The Brunswick Republican stunned allies and colleagues Monday, confirming he will not run for re-election after a 32-year Senate career.

The de facto leader of the state Republican Party, Bruno has already set in motion a plan to pass the power to Sen. Dean Skelos, R-Rockville Centre, GOP insiders said.

When he will do so is unclear, although one senator, Thomas Morahan, R-Rockland County, said a vote today on replacing Bruno is expected, with the winner filling out his term as majority leader.

Bruno is expected to make a public announcement today about his decision and Skelos, according to a Senate official and a Republican operative briefed on the plans.

Sen. Thomas Libous of Binghamton, who has also been keen on becoming majority leader, will replace Skelos as deputy majority leader, a GOP official said.

Bruno becomes the third high-ranking state official to unexpectedly leave office in the past two years.

Democratic Comptroller Alan Hevesi left office in 2006, and Democratic Gov. Eliot Spitzer resigned earlier this year.

Few people seemed to know of Bruno's intentions.

"He called us in right before he told his members," said Edward Lurie, Bruno's former political director, referring to top staffers.

Assemblyman Roy McDonald, R-Wilton, would be Bruno's preferred replacement for his Senate seat, GOP officials said.

McDonald said he is "very much interested."

Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen Jimino had also been interested.

Bruno's seat, representing Rensselaer County and much of Saratoga County, had been considered a safe one for Republicans.

The race for the 43rd Senate district may be competitive for the first time in decades.

Bruno departs at one of the toughest points in his career, with a two-year-old FBI investigation of his business dealings hanging over his head and a recent push by federal investigators for more and more documentation.

Already, the probe has led to Bruno breaking off a more than 10-year job with a Connecticut investment firm, Wright Investors Service.

The FBI has looked into Wright securing contracts to invest New York labor union pension and benefit funds.

The senator had also been under heavy scrutiny for his use of state resources, including planes.

He spent months last year and early this year in a bitter battle with former Gov. Eliot Spitzer.

In January he became a widower when his wife, Barbara, succumbed to Alzheimer's disease.

Political problems have added to the burden.

With all New York lawmakers' two-year terms ending in December, Republicans are defending a 32-30 majority in the Senate, the party's last stronghold in state government.

The GOP has had setbacks, including a Democratic victory in a GOP-dominated North Country district in a special election in February.

Democrats now hold the governor's post and dominate the Assembly by a 106-42 margin.

Should Bruno, 79, be followed by other older senators into retirement, the GOP would lose the power of incumbency in even more districts, further threatening the party's control of the chamber.

However, a Senate source said all the GOP incumbents who had planned to run this year promised to campaign for re-election despite Bruno's departure.

Bruno met for almost two hours with his Republican colleagues behind closed doors but declined to face about 50 reporters and television crews.

An aide said Bruno would say more today.

The mood in the meeting, Morahan said, "was like a wake."

His colleagues in politics paid tribute to Bruno.

"Joe Bruno's leadership helped transform New York State and he will forever be remembered as a true statesman who always put the best interests of good government and the people he served first, foremost and always," said James Tedisco, the Republican Assembly minority leader.

Bruno released a statement as word spread of his decision.

A source familiar with his plans said he will be taking a vacation to Italy soon, although the senator told reporters earlier in the day to expect the Senate to return to Albany in July.

Bruno said in the statement he was ready "to move on with my life and to give my constituents an opportunity for new representation and my colleagues in the Senate who have supported me, an opportunity for new leadership."

He also mused on his time in public office, describing both ups and downs.

"Public service has been a blessing for which I will be ever grateful...I have viewed my work not as a job, but as a privilege to come here day in and day out and stand up for the people of Rensselaer and Saratoga counties and stand up for the hardworking people I have come to know over the years."

He also called politics "a tough ball game."

"Tougher now than it has ever been."

Bruno said he was moving on "with a heavy heart, but an optimistic soul."

Gov. David Paterson said he had no indication that Bruno's decision was connected to the ongoing FBI probe of the senator's business dealings.

"He's a class act."

"He's a wonderful person," said Paterson, who was Democratic minority leader in the Senate before being elected lieutenant governor in 2006 on a ticket with Eliot Spitzer.

"It's a sad day for Albany, and for me."

State Democratic Chairwoman June O'Neill suggested Bruno left because of doubts about the GOP's prospects in the Senate races.

"There is no better gambler in this business than Joe Bruno, but ... Joe Bruno looked across the table and saw we had a royal flush ..."

"We'll be curious to see who else decides to join him in the retired legislators section at the Saratoga Racetrack."

Bruno arrived in the Senate after winning a seat in 1976.

He rose to majority leader in late 1994 after he toppled the sitting leader at the same time that Republican George Pataki became governor.

Pataki, in a statement, said Bruno possessed passion and dedication that is rare in public life.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, D-Manhattan, said the senator's "no nonsense manner and spontaneous wit will certainly be missed in the Capitol."

Union staffers Irene Jay Liu and Kenneth Crowe contributed. James M. Odato can be reached at 454-5083 or by e-mail at jodato@timesunion.com

[Livyjr]

Wow.

Yeah, me, too ...

[Livyjr]

I know Joe Bruno as a THUG ....

GOOD RIDDANCE ...

The senatorial order shall be a model for the other sections of the citizen body.

If we achieve this, we shall have achieved everything.

The state, as a whole, is constantly corrupted when its leading men display evil ambitions and vicious behavior.

It is bad enough that leading figures in the state should do wrong.

But what is much more damaging is that there are so very many people who want to follow their example.

Recollect what happened in Rome's early history, and you will see that the character of our leading citizens was what moulded the shape of the entire community.

Whatever alterations occurred in the life-styles of the leading men were reflected in the lives of the whole population.

For that reason, national leaders who act improperly present a particular danger to the state, not only because of the undesirable practices in which they themselves indulge, but because they themselves infect the whole community with this poison - not only, that is to say, because they are corrupt, but because they corrupt others.

The examples they set to others do more harm than the bad things that they themselves are doing.

This law applies to the whole senatorial order.

Yet it can also be considerably narrowed down.

What I mean is that the capacity either to corrupt the morals of the nation or to improve them rests, actually, with only a few people, in fact, very few indeed, because of the lofty positions or reputations that they enjoy.

- Cicero, ON LAWS, translation by Michael Grant

[Livyjr]

The senatorial order shall be a model for the other sections of the citizen body.

If we achieve this, we shall have achieved everything.

The state, as a whole, is constantly corrupted when its leading men display evil ambitions and vicious behavior.

It is bad enough that leading figures in the state should do wrong.

But what is much more damaging is that there are so very many people who want to follow their example.

- Cicero, ON LAWS, translation by Michael Grant

THE NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

"Senate GOP Leader Joe Bruno won't seek another Albany term"

BY KENNETH LOVETT and ELIZABETH BENJAMIN, DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS

Monday, June 23rd 2008, 11:06 PM

ALBANY - In an announcement both unexpected and stunning, the state's highest-ranking Republican, Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, said Monday he will not seek reelection.

Bruno, 79, of upstate Rensselaer County, is expected to give up his leadership post Tuesday, a variety of sources said.

"While there may never be a good time to make these kind of life decisions, I have decided that it is time for me to move on with my life," Bruno said.

"I do so with a heavy heart but an optimistic soul."

Bruno recently lost his wife of 57 years and is the subject of an ongoing federal investigation into his outside business interests.

Just Monday, a source said, the Senate delivered 30 boxes of documents to federal investigators.

Bruno, who was treated for prostate cancer several years ago, departs at a time when the GOP has been bitterly fighting to keep control of the state Senate, where it has a 32-30 edge. Democrats control the Assembly.

Many older senators have hung in, in large part, because of Bruno, who has been Senate majority leader since 1995.

His departure could change that, which would be a benefit to Democrats, who have picked up four seats in recent years.

While calling Bruno a "dedicated public servant," state Democratic Chairwoman June O'Neill crowed that the Republican saw the writing on the wall for his majority.

"We'll be curious to see who else decides to join him in the retired legislators section at Saratoga Racetrack," she said.

The announcement came several hours after Bruno held a press conference with Gov. Paterson and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver to announce a host of deals to close the legislative session.

Bruno showed no signs of his pending decision, joking with both leaders but there were some signs before yesterday.

As he took the legal steps for a reelection run in recent weeks, Bruno was surprisingly coy when asked if he was running.

After meeting with Bruno later in the day, Paterson said he had an idea something was up several days ago during a private conversation with the majority leader.

"It is in some ways a sad day for Albany and for me," said Paterson, who was Senate minority leader while Bruno was majority leader.

The Democratic governor said he was not aware if the federal probe of Bruno was a factor in the decision.

"The senator wants to move on, there are other things he'd like to do," Paterson said.

"He's a class act."

Silver was also gracious in his remarks.

"Although we experienced our share of disagreements, I always recognized and appreciated the Senator's unwavering commitment to public service," said the Assembly majority leader.

Some of Bruno's members were ashen and close to tears as they left a closed-door meeting with him.

Deputy Majority Leader Dean Skelos of Long Island is expected to take Bruno's leadership slot today and Thomas Libous of Binghamton will get Skelos' deputy position, Senate sources said.

Bruno became majority leader shortly after Republican George Pataki was elected governor in 1994.

With the backing of powerful GOP leaders, he orchestrated a Thanksgiving Day coup against then-Majority Leader Ralph Marino, who campaigned with Democratic incumbent Mario Cuomo.

He started his tenure as a strong conservative but over the years, partially because of pressure from Pataki and partially because Democrats made gains in the house, he moved his members leftward.

"Senator Bruno always fought for what he believed in, tough enough to take a punch and always strong enough to land a punch," Pataki said Monday night of the former Army boxer.

While Bruno had his ups and downs with Pataki, it was all-out war with Pataki's Democratic successor, Eliot Spitzer, who was elected in 2006.

In what has become known as Troopergate, the Spitzer administration had state police compile travel records on Bruno so they could be released publicly to embarrass him.

Bruno went toe-to-toe with the tough-talking governor, accusing him of political espionage and often dismissing him as a "spoiled brat."

They battled until the day Spitzer resigned for hiring a hooker.

klovett@nydailynews.com

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/2008/06/23...nt_seek_an.html

[Livyjr]

Recollect what happened in Rome's early history, and you will see that the character of our leading citizens was what moulded the shape of the entire community.

Whatever alterations occurred in the life-styles of the leading men were reflected in the lives of the whole population.

For that reason, national leaders who act improperly present a particular danger to the state, not only because of the undesirable practices in which they themselves indulge, but because they themselves infect the whole community with this poison - not only, that is to say, because they are corrupt, but because they corrupt others.

The examples they set to others do more harm than the bad things that they themselves are doing.

- Cicero, ON LAWS, translation by Michael Grant

THE NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

"Scandals plagued Joe Bruno who once claimed he had 'nothing to hide'"

By Corky Siemaszko, Daily News Staff Writer

Tuesday, June 24th 2008, 12:34 AM

New York's most powerful Republican pulled the plug on his political career in the face of a widening FBI probe into his businesses - including land deals and racehorses.

That Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno was under investigation was no secret - he made the bombshell announcement in December 2006 as rumors swirled.

"I have nothing to hide," he said at the time.

The FBI probe faded into the background as the Troopergate scandal erupted and the majority leader was revealed to be the target of Gov. Eliot Spitzer, whose career was about to implode over a hooker scandal.

In February, The Albany Times Union reported the feds subpoenaed labor unions that invested pieces of their pension funds with a Connecticut firm that employed Bruno as a consultant.

Bruno again denied any wrongdoing - he later told New York magazine he might have "inadvertently" done something to get himself in a jam with the feds.

"Who the hell knows if, inadvertently, there's something there, that they uncovered, that they want to accuse you of," Bruno said.

"I think, 'What the hell could they get somebody to say that I said or did?'"

"I know that's what they try and do."

The probe began when a grand jury sent out subpoenas related to Bruno's dealings with Albany-area businessman Jared (Jerry) Abbruzzese.

Abbruzzese was a principal in a high-tech company in upstate Troy to which Bruno steered $500,000 in pork-barrel grants over the past four years, sources said.

One specific subpoena was issued to a bigtime Albany lobbyist, who confirmed the FBI rousted him for records on a land deal he and his pal Bruno were involved in until last year.

There have also been reports the FBI probe had expanded to look into Bruno's horse-breeding business.

In 2004, Bruno bought two mares from developer Earle Mack for $50,000, spent $74,000 to breed them and then sold three foals at auction for $425,000.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/2008/06/23..._once_clai.html

[graham4anything]

ByeBye Joe, you won't be missed.
There can't be anyone much worse than Joe.
(wonder what the REAL reason is Joe is leaving...what was he caught doing...)

[Livyjr]

(wonder what the REAL reason is Joe is leaving...what was he caught doing...)

AH, YES ....

THE question ...

[Livyjr]

"Retirement won't end FBI probe - Senate has turned over boxes of records sought in Bruno inquiry"

By BRENDAN J. LYONS Senior writer, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Wednesday, June 25, 2008

ALBANY -- An FBI investigation of former Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno is moving forward and will not be derailed by his abrupt decision to leave elected office at the end of the year, people familiar with the case said.

Bruno's announcement that he would not seek re-election comes as federal prosecutors for the Southern District of New York have visited Albany in connection with the nearly three-year-old criminal probe of Bruno's public and private business dealings, according to sources who spoke to the Times Union on condition they not be identified.

Several months ago, FBI agents from Albany met with prosecutors from the Southern District regarding the Bruno investigation, a person with knowledge of the meeting said.

The agents made an informal overture to the Manhattan-based federal prosecutors at a time when the FBI and prosecutors in New York's Northern District, under U.S. Attorney Glenn T. Suddaby, have been at odds about the handling of the Bruno investigation, which sources believe has been dogged by unnecessary delay.

Suddaby is awaiting confirmation by the U.S. Senate to a position as a federal judge in upstate New York.

He has declined to comment on the Bruno investigation.

In recent days, Boyd M. Johnson III, who leads the public corruption unit of the United States attorney's office for the Southern District, visited Albany around the time that boxes of records from the state Senate were turned over to federal authorities.

Sources close to the case said that the files had been requested by federal authorities months ago, but that the Senate delayed responding to the request.

It's unclear whether Johnson was in Albany specifically because of the Bruno records provided to the government.

The federal investigation is centered around Bruno's private consulting business, his horse breeding interests and the state's horse racing industry.

Federal grand jury subpoenas also were issued regarding Bruno's work for a Connecticut company that received tens of millions of dollars in investment dollars from New York labor unions.

Bruno, 79, abruptly resigned from that investment company in December.

The senator's Brunswick consulting company, Capital Business Consultants, also has been a focus of the probe.

Bruno has declined to identify his private consulting clients, or to disclose whether any of them have an interest in state government contracts or public funding.

Like many other legislators, the senator has, when asked, also declined to disclose publicly the amounts of his personal income, net worth or debt.

Paul Holstein, chief division counsel for the Albany FBI field office, declined to comment on why agents had met with the Southern District prosecutors.

He said the office is "fully committed to the public corruption program, which is a high priority for the FBI, and are committing necessary resources to address ongoing investigations."

The investigation of Bruno is being headed by two agents with extensive experience in white-collar and public corruption cases, Michael Bassett and Charles Dougherty.

Bassett has been with the agency 25 years and worked at field offices in Tampa, Fla., and Chicago, where he worked undercover posing as a commodities futures trader on the floor of the Chicago Board of Trade.

That investigation -- Operation Sourmash -- led to dozens of convictions and legislative reforms.

In Albany, Bassett has been the case agent on several high-profile public corruption investigations, including the insurance fraud case involving Albert Lawrence and the state bribery case of Albany engineer Ronald Laberge.

Dougherty came to Albany from the Newark field office, where he worked white-collar crime and public corruption investigations for more than 20 years, including 12 years as a supervisor.

Dougherty's work in the Newark office included investigations that brought convictions against multiple elected officials, including state senators, assemblymen and the former mayor of Newark, Sharpe James.

Early in the investigation, Bruno met with Bassett and another FBI official in Albany to discuss their probe, according to a person briefed on the meeting.

Bruno responded to their questions about his business dealings, and his answers were documented in FBI files.

It was a risky act for Bruno because citizens can be prosecuted for making false statements to federal agents involved in an official probe.

If a federal grand jury decides there are no criminal violations on Bruno's part, prosecutors have the option of providing Bruno or others with a letter indicating the panel took no action, a step that is akin to being exonerated.

Much of the investigation has focused on horse racing, an industry Bruno has staunchly supported and in which he has a deep personal interest.

The FBI probe outlasted a tumultuous period in New York's state-operated racing industry as it struggled to recover from allegations of mismanagement by its longtime operator, the New York Racing Association.

NYRA's contract to run the state's three thoroughbred tracks was renewed, but not before being imperiled by a heated takeover bid from several competing racing consortiums, including some whose investors have strong ties to Bruno and other elected officials.

More recently, the federal investigation has plied opinions Bruno received from the Legislative Ethics Commission that relate to his personal business ventures, including real estate development and horse breeding.

A person close to the investigation said federal authorities are examining the process by which Bruno received authorization from the ethics panel.

Bruno's attorney in Albany, William Dreyer, is a former federal prosecutor.

He could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

Dreyer's law firm has been paid more than $203,000 over the past two years from campaign funds connected to Bruno, records show.

A source briefed on the investigation said the FBI has built its investigation around the "honest-services" provision of federal statutes, a one-sentence amendment Congress inserted into federal law 20 years ago to close a loophole in its laws defining mail fraud and wire fraud.

The broadly written law prohibits anyone from depriving the public of an inherent "right to honest services."

J. Lyons can be reached at 454-5547 or by e-mail at blyons@timesunion.com.

[Livyjr]

And what about the FBI, then, Livyjr?

What happened to the FBI?

And here is another important question, that needs to be addressed and understood, in assessing this matter that is under discussion in here, which is an alleged "ring" operating in the State of New York, consisting of at least two doctors, and a hospital, and a corporation, and a very powerful and politically connected law firm in the Capital District area of the alleged corrupt EMPIRE STATE of New York, who for an alleged "pay-off", will allegedly remove a witness in a court proceeding, or a witness who is about to initiate proceedings in court, by the expediency of having the doctor falsely and fraudulently "certify" the witness as being a "dangerous mental patient" who requires immediate care and treatment in a secure mental facility operated by the corporation, with the blessings of the "state", or the REPUBLICAN side of it, anyway.

Once "BRANDED" in this way, of course, the witness is done, literally done, and all who must depend on such witness to make a case of government corruption in a court of law are then done, too, which is what this thread is all about.

SO!

The FBI!

What happened to the FBI?

Simple!

They were turned off like a "light bulb", and that was that!

No more contact allowed, by ORDER of the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York.

How do we know this?

Well, for one, it came directly from the FBI special agent who was doing the digging into this matter of alleged corruption in the Town of Poestenkill Planning Board, and the Rensselaer County Department of Health, from approximately 1978, through 1988, and that is OUR best evidence, of course, and then that fact is also confirmed in Exhibit Q of the ORIGINAL COMPLAINT filed in this matter with Federal District Court for the Northern District of New York on June 18, 2003, about three months AFTER the President of the Albany County, State of New York Bar Association confirmed in a very public newsletter that in the Albany, New York area, where all of this was transpiring, and where the FBI investigation was being conducted out of, ATTORNEYS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ALBANY COUNTY BAR, have no ethics, which is to say, no integrity.

As the Bar Association President was to say, in paraphrase: "Ah, that GRAND and glorious feeling, give them a GRAND, and they feel just glorious", and folks, that is the way it is!

Money talks, and that is the only voice that can and will be heard in the courts of the State of New York, by order of the management.

Right after the FBI Special Agent filed his report which constitutes Exhibit P of the ORIGINAL COMPLAINT, which exhibit was quoted from above as concluding that the Rensselaer County Department of Health was violating State and local laws to facilitate developers in Rensselaer County, the Office of the U.S. Attorney TURNED THE INVESTIGATION OFF, like a faucet!

According to OUR account, which is based on a first-hand account by a witness, the FBI Special Agent then met with OUR expert and told him that the best course of action for him would be to leave, to just get out of town, and stay there, because OUR witness's "enemies" went way up higher than this FBI Special Agent's head, and where the Office of the U.S. Attorney had officially "turned off" the investigation, there was nothing further that he could do in the matter, and he was not going to jeopardize his career for us, who are essentially, just a bunch of nothing in the world of the rich and powerful in Albany, New York.

And why has this never come out before?

Well, where and how was that going to happen, would be my reply!

After all, it never was a secret in the first place.

Everyone in Rensselaer County at that time KNEW the FBI were investigating, because they don't blend in the first place, when they are around, and they definitely were around, right out in plain sight, trying to find people who would talk about having been threatened or shaken down by personnel from the Rensselaer County Department of Health for an "approval".

And not only was the FBI talking to people in Rensselaer County on what was to be a futile quest to find anyone, outside of OUR expert who would come forward as a witness, they were also present when OUR expert was put on "trial" by Rensselaer County for having made those reports to the State Health Commissioner which resulted in the FBI investigating this matter in the first place.

WE, who in mute witness, stand, were there, and WE saw the FBI there, and they saw us!

SO!

That is how we knew that there would be some kind of FBI records detailing the matter, and years later, through Freedom of Information, we were finally able to obtain copies of those records, which were then immediately "suppressed" again by the "powers-that-be" in Rensselaer County and the State of New York, and that brings us right on up to this present moment in time.

Thank you for your continuing interest.

To be continued .....

"Bruno facing FBI scrutiny - Federal investigators are looking into the outside business interests of state Senate majority leader"

By JAMES M. ODATO and RICK KARLIN, Capitol bureau, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Wednesday, December 20, 2006

ALBANY -- Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno on Tuesday acknowledged he is being investigated by the FBI for what he described as his "outside business interests."

Bruno, in an abruptly called late afternoon news conference at the Capitol, revealed the probe and said he learned last spring it was going on.

He said subpoenas have been issued, and he did not believe he was the target of the inquiry.

"I have nothing to hide," Bruno said.

John Pikus, the FBI's special agent in charge in Albany, declined comment, referring questions to the office of U.S. Attorney Glenn T. Suddaby.

Bruno said the probe against him won't uncover wrongdoing.

"Palm Beach trip probed - Vacation, including a visit to a strip club, part of the Bruno-Abbruzzese inquiry"

By BRENDAN J. LYONS Senior writer, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Sunday, January 14, 2007

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- New York's legislative leaders had been in session only a few days last year when Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno quietly left town for a vacation in Florida.

The day would end with Abbruzzese bankrolling the senator's visit to a strip club.

The trip, the Times Union has learned, has become one of many events being scrutinized by federal authorities in an ongoing criminal investigation of the unusual relationship between the senator and the businessman.

On the drive back from the golf course, the men pulled into Rachel's, a high-class strip club and steakhouse in the heart of West Palm Beach.

There, patrons are greeted by overly polite valets who spend much of their time parking Range Rovers and customized BMWs driven by an almost exclusively male clientele.

A source who spoke to the Times Union about the trip said Bruno had no idea what was in store, although a sign outside indicates the club offers "adult entertainment."

Inside, $40 steaks and $90 bottles of wine are delivered by bow-tied waiters in a darkened four-star atmosphere.

On two stages in the center of the club, female performers, some fully nude, move fluidly under pulsing strobe lights while tunes from rockers such as Tom Petty and Jimi Hendrix pierce the air.

For those seeking a closer encounter, the women, many resembling Playboy centerfolds, offer private lap dances -- at a $20 minimum -- on a leather-covered bench near a secluded spot in the back.

Bruno's two-day vacation, including the night at Rachel's, was bankrolled by Abbruzzese, sources told the Times Union.

Sometime after the investigation began, according to sources involved in the case, Bruno placed several telephone calls to U.S. Attorney Glenn T. Suddaby, the top federal prosecutor in New York's Northern District.

The investigation is being headed by Suddaby's office and the FBI.

Bruno's spokesman disputes that account of the calls.

"Senator Bruno made one call to the U.S. Attorney's office when he was informed that they were conducting an inquiry," said John McArdle, director of communications for Senate Republicans.

"He did so to offer his complete and total cooperation."

"He did not call anyone repeatedly."

Suddaby declined comment, citing a policy not to discuss pending investigations.

"Retirement won't end FBI probe - Senate has turned over boxes of records sought in Bruno inquiry"

By BRENDAN J. LYONS Senior writer, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Wednesday, June 25, 2008

ALBANY -- Several months ago, FBI agents from Albany met with prosecutors from the Southern District regarding the Bruno investigation, a person with knowledge of the meeting said.

The agents made an informal overture to the Manhattan-based federal prosecutors at a time when the FBI and prosecutors in New York's Northern District, under U.S. Attorney Glenn T. Suddaby, have been at odds about the handling of the Bruno investigation, which sources believe has been dogged by unnecessary delay.

Suddaby is awaiting confirmation by the U.S. Senate to a position as a federal judge in upstate New York.

Paul Holstein, chief division counsel for the Albany FBI field office, declined to comment on why agents had met with the Southern District prosecutors.

"Skelos expected to replace Bruno as Senate GOP leader"

By MICHAEL GORMLEY, Associated Press

Last updated: 11:52 a.m., Tuesday, June 24, 2008

ALBANY -- Sen. Dean Skelos of Long Island was expected to be elected leader of the Republicans' tenuous majority in the Senate on Tuesday, according to two Republicans briefed on the succession deal struck Monday night after Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno announced his retirement.

Under the agreement, Skelos' closest rival, Sen. Thomas Libous of Broome County, will be deputy majority leader, according to the two Republicans, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the decision had not been officially announced.

Skelos, 60, has been in the Senate since 1985 and is steeped in the ways of power Albany, including the authority of strong majority leaders to determine what bills even get to the floor for debate.

His expected election in a closed party conference would mean the Senate majority leader, the Assembly speaker, the Senate minority leader, the governor, comptroller and attorney general will all be from New York City or its suburbs.

Bruno, 79, is from upstate's Rensselaer County and has held the leader's job since 1995.

Skelos refused comment Tuesday morning.

"I think Sen. Bruno made his decision based on wanting to get on with other things in his life," Libous said Tuesday.

"We're all focused in coming back in the majority (after elections) and I think we will pick up a seat or two."

"My interest is in the Senate majority."

The agreement for Libous to step aside in favor of Skelos was made Monday night by senior senators to avoid an internal fight that could jeopardize the chance for the Republicans to keep their 32-30 advantage in the chamber.

Republican senators said Bruno simply had enough after a yearlong fight with former Democratic Gov. Eliot Spitzer, a two-year FBI investigation, and, most of all, the death of his wife in January.

They had been married 57 years.

"I felt he was suffering, the loss of his wife and few other things," said Sen. Hugh Farley, a Schenectady County Republican.

"He's my best friend and we came into the Senate together."

Farley and other senators said the change, while sad and surprising, will help re-energize the Senate Republican conference, which faces an increasing threat in the increasingly Democratic state.

The change in guard will also likely mean the millions of dollars in state funding and projects Bruno steered to his Albany area district will now go to Long Island if Skelos and the GOP keep the majority.

"It's time for a change," a sometimes teary eyed Bruno told reporters Tuesday.

"It's time for me in my life to step back and enjoy my family ... I'm satisfied."

Bruno said the FBI investigation played no role in his decision.

He insists he has never been accused of a crime and won't be, and the federal probe will end without action against him.

[Livyjr]

"Senate GOP to rethink strategy for November - Bruno's retirement may put party at disadvantage in raising money for fall election"

By IRENE JAY LIU, Capitol bureau, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Wednesday, June 25, 2008

ALBANY -- With the sudden retirement of their longtime quarterback, Sen. Joseph L. Bruno, Senate Republicans and their newly chosen leader must rejigger their game plan for the fight for the majority in November.

Bruno, in his capacity as conference leader, played many roles -- manager, consensus-builder, strategist, fundraiser -- roles that people from both sides of the aisle acknowledge he did well.

Those roles will be taken over by the new Majority Leader, Sen. Dean Skelos, R-Rockville Centre.

"Joe did a really good job of holding them together and putting them together tactically as the state was changing around them," said Doug Forand of Red Horse Strategies, the firm managing the Democrats' campaign to take over the Senate.

Forand said Bruno's decision to retire puts Republicans at a disadvantage and places a significant burden on Skelos, especially in the area of fundraising.

"I think a lot of the relationships were Bruno, with labor and other interests."

"I don't think that transfers wholesale to Dean Skelos," said Forand.

State GOP Chairman Joseph Mondello said fundraising will be a challenge for Skelos.

"He is extraordinary," said Mondello of Bruno.

"He's out 24/7 bringing in money from all different sources."

"That's why we have the ability to spend money on our races."

"That is going to be a challenge for Dean Skelos."

Bruno may still have a a role in this year's elections, but it has yet to be determined.

Mondello said he is happy to have his fellow Nassau County Republican in charge of the GOP-dominated Senate, but he also wishes Bruno hadn't bowed out.

Mondello said he would have preferred if Bruno had "seen this election through."

"We have five months to get the job done; I'm very apprehensive."

"This is not a cakewalk."

Bruno's decision to step down was met with some glee from Mondello's counterpart in the state Democratic Party.

Chairwoman June O'Neill said she was "curious to see who else decides to join him in the retired legislators section at the Saratoga Racetrack."

A Republican insider disputed that notion, saying, "everyone gave commitments that they will be running."

Some of the Senate's oldest members, Sens. Caesar Trunzo, R-Brentwood; Hugh Farley, R-Niskayuna; and Serphin Maltese, R-Queens, said through spokesmen they would run for office in November.

Skelos, in his first news release as majority leader, spoke of enlarging the Republican majority, not losing it.

He voiced confidence voters will support Republicans on issues and come to "a recognition that checks and balances, not one-party rule, make for the most effective and responsive government."

Forand disagreed.

"Voters are smart and they realize that when they are voting, they are choosing between two candidates."

Bruno, too, predicted the Senate will keep the majority.

"I fully expect an increased majority this November," said Bruno.

"And if I didn't think that, I wouldn't leave."

James M. Odato contributed to this report. Irene Jay Liu can be reached at 454-5081 or by e-mail at iliu@timesunion.com.

[Livyjr]

"Good timing for good deal"

Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Monday, June 9, 2008

The widow of former state Sen. Ron Stafford last month bought a home from the elder son of Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno at an apparent premium, at a time when she is seeking legislation that would benefit her company.

Kay Stafford bought 303 Bulson Road, Brunswick, for $475,000 from Joseph M. Bruno.

Town records show the three-bedroom residence on 17 acres, which is next to the senator's, is assessed at $74,100, with a total market value of $304,938.

In 2000, she married Sen. Ron Stafford, R-Plattsburgh, an ally of Sen. Bruno.

As Finance Committee chair, Sen. Stafford was second to Bruno in influence in the Senate.

Kay Stafford leads CMA Consulting in Latham, a company that state comptroller records show has received 199 state contracts since 1998 worth $94.6 million.

Most of that work -- in computer programming services and technical database services -- came in recent years.

CMA would benefit from a law proposed by Assembly Transportation Committee Chairman David Gantt, D-Rochester, that would allow counties to install cameras at traffic lights.

The bill would require technology offered by CMA Consulting.

Gantt has come under criticism for the measure because he long opposed traffic light cameras.

He changed his position after CMA hired his friend and former staffer Robert Scott Gaddy as its lobbyist.

At about the same time he sold his home, Bruno's son quit his $104,000 post as director of job order contracting at the State University Construction Fund on May 15, state records show.

His state career began in 1995, shortly after his father rose to lead the Senate's Republican majority and Gov. George Pataki took office.

JOE BRUNO IS "IL PADRONE" IN RENSSELAER COUNTY IN THE CORRUPT EMPIRE OF NEW YORK ...

THE "IRON DUKE" ...

ONE FIST MADE OF IRON, THE OTHER OF STEEL ...

AND "THE BATTLING DUKE" ISN'T AFRAID TO USE THEM BOTH QUITE LIBERALLY TO DESTROY ANYONE WHO GETS IN HIS WAY ...

And so ...

"Options are open for Bruno - Observers expect senator to shift to private sector, with possible link to female friend"

By JAMES M. ODATO, Capitol bureau, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Thursday, June 26, 2008

ALBANY -- Former Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno's exit plan involves continuing to work in the private sector, and insiders say, possibly with close friend Kay Stafford's Latham consulting firm.

"I think he intends to enter the business world," said Republican State Committee Chairman Joseph N. Mondello, who said he had several conversations with Bruno before his announced departure from the Senate.

"He has this feeling he hasn't adequately taken care for his family."

"Maybe it's an Italian thing."

Bruno, 79, stepped down on Tuesday from the leadership post he's held since 1995, a day after he announced he won't run for re-election.

The Senate chose Deputy Majority Leader Dean Skelos, R-Rockville Center, to replace him.

Bruno's personal financial picture is unclear, although it may be difficult for him to afford the lifestyle he enjoyed as majority leader.

Retiring from the post means losing the $41,500 stipend he received on top of his $79,500 base pay, along with a host of perks such as cars, drivers, secretaries and more.

Still, even if he doesn't work again, Bruno's retirement paycheck from the state pension system will be well above the median pay for Rensselaer County -- an estimated $95,000 per year given his 44 years of service credits and pay level.

According to people who have seen them together, Bruno and Stafford are very close.

She recently became the senator's neighbor, having purchased the property next door to Bruno from Bruno's oldest son for $475,000.

Also, Stafford and her firm, CMA Consulting Services, which performs computer data services and related work, hosted a $1,000-per-person fundraiser honoring Bruno on June 17, six days before he announced he won't run for re-election.

He has discussed joining CMA as an executive, according to a person familiar with Bruno and Stafford.

CMA has received $95 million in state contracts over the past decade.

It also gets subcontract work with other state contractors as a woman-owned enterprise.

Bruno has often touted his management acumen and his interest in continuing to be a businessman.

He once led Coradian Corp., a company that sold phone systems to public and private customers.

It was acquired in 1990.

His outside consulting and private employment has come under scrutiny by federal investigators.

That probe led to his breaking off a long-term job with Wright Investors Service, which had been a source of extra income for him during his 14 years as majority leader.

The FBI has subpoenaed Bruno's records as well as documents of those with whom he's done business, according to subpoenas obtained by the Times Union.

The FBI received 30 boxes of materials from the senator's office on Monday, according to a person with knowledge of the investigation.

The material sought included almost anything that's flowed into Bruno's office, according to a lawyer involved in the probe.

Legal expenses to deal with the criminal inquiry have mounted dramatically since the bills began trickling in two years ago, according to public campaign records.

The first few bills to the Dreyer, Boyajian law firm in Albany, Bruno's outside attorneys, amounted to $2,403 in 2006.

The Senate Republican Campaign Committee picked up the tab.

By 2007, when Bruno's own campaign fund started paying the legal bills, the figure had grown to $201,500.

Costs in 2008 have yet to be reported.

Robert Brehm, a spokesman for the state Board of Elections, said Bruno's campaign committee can continue paying the law firm even when he's out of public office.

"Just the fact that he's leaving doesn't trigger a change," as long as the costs arose from legal representation connected to holding office, Brehm said.

Indeed, other lawmakers have continued to dip into campaign funds for such expenses after leaving office.

With $1.6 million on hand as of January, Bruno's campaign fund has reserves.

Yet his expenses could prevent him from sharing the money to help others in his conference win election, which his campaign has done in the past.

Mondello noted that for Assemblyman Roy McDonald, R-Wilton, to win Bruno's 43rd District seat "it's going to take a lot of money."

Bruno did not specify his post-Senate plans during a lengthy news conference Tuesday.

He said he wanted to spend more time with his family -- mentioning grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

The Brunswick Republican, whose wife died in January, said his departure has nothing to do with ill health, a lack of faith in the GOP's ability to hold the Senate or the FBI probe that he says goes back three years.

"He wants to make a few bucks ... for his grandchildren," said Mondello, a friend since Bruno was an aide to former Assembly Speaker Perry Duryea almost 40 years ago.

"He's made that comment to me several times."

Bruno, during a speech that drew a standing ovation in the chamber Tuesday night, paid tribute to all his colleagues and noted the former desk of the late Sen. Ron Stafford, Kay Stafford's husband, who died three years ago.

"I'm going to take it a day at a time in my life," Bruno said.

"Because I have learned that we only live a day at a time."

James M. Odato can be reached at 454-5083 or by e-mail at jodato@timesunion.com.

[Livyjr]

"GOP confident in Skelos' ability - Upstate senators see new leader as being able to keep Republican control of chamber"

By RICK KARLIN, Capitol bureau, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Wednesday, June 25, 2008

ALBANY -- To those outside Nassau County, newly minted Senate Republican Majority Leader Dean Skelos has been known as a champion of everything Long Island.

His annual push to bring more state aid to his region's school districts is legendary and well publicized, and he doesn't hesitate to take on those he sees as working against his constituents' interests.

Earlier this year, Skelos and the rest of Long Island's Senate delegation called for the ouster of Education Commissioner Richard Mills for what they said was Mills' slow response to pension abuses by retiring superintendents.

Last week, he offered legislation that would freeze real estate tax assessments, which can cause one's school taxes to rise steeply -- a major issue in Long Island and other suburbs.

With that reputation, Skelos' main challenge as Joseph Bruno's successor may be convincing fellow senators from upstate that he's looking after their interests, too.

After all, 20 of the Senate's 32 Republicans hail from areas north of New York City and Long Island.

So far, he seems to have their trust, largely due to his steady hand as Bruno's deputy.

While he may not have Bruno's flair and back-slapping ease, lawmakers and others note that his straightforward style of addressing the issues has long been appreciated.

His style, one Senate staffer said, is simple: delegate tasks to senators who are on the relevant committees, give them the help they need and hold them accountable for results.

As a result, Skelos has earned the confidence of Republicans who in November will fight to keep their 32-30 majority in an increasingly Democratic state.

"We're in a very tough situation and I think he's the guy who can really bring us home," said Sen. Hugh Farley, R-Niskayuna.

He'll probably want to carry on Bruno's legacy in at least two ways, said one longtime lobbyist.

Bruno avoided being drawn into battles with groups like abortion-rights or gay-rights advocates who have historically clashed with Republicans.

He also cultivated close ties with organized labor, which has provided both get-out-the-vote support and campaign dollars.

Keeping the money spigot flowing may be one of Skelos' first tasks as leader.

"The challenge is going to be to raise the bucks to get the message across," said Republican State Chairman Joseph Mondello, a longtime friend of Skelos.

Rick Karlin can be reached at 454-5758 or by e-mail at rkarlin@timesunion.com.

[Livyjr]

"2 Democrats eye state Senate bids - Keehn, Yepsen plan to gauge potential support in 43rd District race"

By DENNIS YUSKO, Staff writer, Albany, New York Times Union

First published: Friday, June 27, 2008

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Two Spa City Democrats will enter the race for former state Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno's seat this fall if they can enlist enough support over the next two weeks.

Former Mayor Valerie Keehn and city Supervisor Joanne Yepsen both said Thursday they would start gathering petition signatures for election to the 43rd District state Senate seat.

Both said Bruno's decision this week to retire made them want to run.

They need to collect 1,000 voter signatures in the district by July 10 to be candidates.

"If I can get the signatures, I think I can definitely be in this ballgame," Keehn, 49, said Thursday.

Yepsen could start collecting signatures over the weekend, she said through a spokeswoman.

If Keehn and Yepsen become candidates, it would likely mean challenging each other and Rensselaer County Democrat Brian Premo of Brunswick in a September primary.

Assemblyman Roy McDonald, R-Wilton, is favored to represent district Republicans in the fall.

On Thursday, Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino announced she would not be a candidate for the seat.

New York's 43rd Senate district includes all of Rensselaer County and eastern and southern Saratoga County.

Rensselaer County is almost evenly split between enrolled Democrats and Republicans, while the parts of Saratoga County in the district lean Republican but can swing Democratic.

Premo, 48, launched his bid to challenge Bruno several weeks ago and has already picked up endorsements from the Democratic committees of both counties.

The attorney from Brunswick welcomed others into the race, which he said would be about making the state Legislature functional.

"There is no question that democracy is served when voters have a greater choice of candidates," Premo said.

Yepsen, 49, was elected to a second term as city supervisor last year.

"Because I believe so strongly in nonpartisan leadership and working for the people as a whole, despite their party affiliation, I believe I could offer the people in the 43rd district a refreshing new spirit of cooperation," Yepsen said in an e-mail.

Keehn was defeated by Republican Scott Johnson in November.

But she's shown strength in Democratic primaries, winning two in the city in 2005 and 2007.

She said Thursday that she would campaign as a "tried and true Democrat," and represent "middle-class taxpayers trying to maintain their quality of life in New York, which is getting more and more difficult."

Dennis Yusko can be reached at 454-5353 or by e-mail at dyusko@timesunion.com.