The Return Of Squeegee

Years ago, Rudy squeezed them out of the city to benefit our “quality-of-life.” Rudy’s gone. Now, street window-washers have returned. Several have been spotted "cleaning up" near the Lincoln Tunnel wiping windshields for tips, much to the dismay of drivers. These wipers were known to pursue their cleaning chores in an aggressive manner, leaving motorists intimidated … and with a dirty windshield. Some drivers report the same behavior. New York entrepreneurs should be admired. New York "squeegee guys" should be arrested. Hot dog vendors aren’t allowed to shove their wieners down your throat. Nobody should be permitted to force their wet wipes on your windows either.

Civil War-rior Recognized

A Midwest researcher helps a long forgotten New Yorker. Roderick Connelly may now rest in peace and receive the respect he’s deserved for over 143 years. Once buried in an unmarked grave, an appropriate tombstone now honors his burial spot at Calvary Cemetery in Woodside, Queens. Connelly was among 3,300 courageous Union soldiers who attacked Fort Fisher on January 15, 1865. While many of his comrades were killed, wounded or fled, Connelly bravely remained behind and fought along with his unit until the Confederate troops surrendered. His actions earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor. An ordinary man who became a hero. America is blessed to have had people such as Mr. Connelly throughout our history. We're blessed that brave and patriotic men and women still rise from among us today.

Shea For Sale

2,500 items are listed for sale from the former home of the New York Mets. Amazingly, Mets ownership is selling the 1969 and 1986 championship banners. In their defense however, these are not the original banners. They’re actually replacements used because of weather damage to several previous sets. Total sales on the Shea goodies is estimated to be $2.6 million (seats not included). Both the Shea homerun apple and city skyline will be sent to their new Queens home across the street, Citi Field. To all of the Mets fans who saved money on Playoff tickets this year, go buy a souvenir to remember the few good memories you can have about the place; the place that often brought more disappointment than a New York politician after being elected.

Jehovah’s Witnesses See The Profit

Robert Levine, the developer who’s building condos in Brooklyn Bridge Park is paying $92 million for the once-famous, Bossert Hotel. The money will be paid to the publishing arm of the Jehovah’s Witnesses; the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. He plans to convert the 14-story landmark hotel into student housing. It was once known as Brooklyn’s “Waldorf-Astoria.” Old-time baseball fanatics may remember that it hosted the Brooklyn Dodgers 1955 World Series victory party. Well, no more Dodger parties at the old inn. It’ll probably become the scene for many “Animal House” shenanigans real soon though.

Ferry Settlement For Victim

Darius Marshall, 25, left home in October 2003. He never returned. Sadly, Marshall died in the Staten Island Ferry crash in 2003. This September, his family was awarded $2.3 million for their terrible loss. Marshall survived the 9/11 attack. He was standing near the South Tower when the jet struck the building. His family received word of the payment, also on 9/11. It’s hoped that the settlement will bring comfort and closure to his loved ones.

Billy-burg Bike Bashers

Babes on bikes are apparently riling many Jewish religious leaders in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Hasidic community leaders complain that new city “bike lanes” in their neighborhood bring an unwelcome element into their neighborhood; "non-kosher cuties." They’re demanding that the city eliminate existing bicycle lanes on Bedford and Wythe avenues. They also want canceled any future lanes planned for the Hasidic vicinity. Bicycle lanes have proven to be a big hit with many New Yorkers throughout the city, including young hipsters from North Williamsburg. Religious law dictates that Hasids are not permitted to look upon women unless they’re fully clothed. That's a respectful doctrine for the Jewish followers of this religion. However, the extension of their faith into public streets seems a stretch. It's very sad how in many instances, the most religious among us reveal themselves to be the least tolerant of others. New York City is a beautiful multi-religious mosaic. No religious group should impose its will on its neighbors to deny them their freedoms. That just wouldn’t be kosher.

Police Holding Fire

“Stop or I’ll shoot” followed by the sound of gunfire has been heard less frequently around NYC recently. NYPD records state that shooting incidents were down12.6% in 2007 compared to 2006; however the number of bullets fired rose. Cops shot their weapons 111 times in 2007 versus 127 in 2006. They used 588 bullets in 2007 (136 during one occurrence alone) compared to 541 in 2006. 7 police officers were shot (3 fatally) and cops shot 19 people (all male, 10 fatally). Officers shot 39 dogs last year opposed to 30 dogs in 2006 (Can't let our city "go to the dogs," right?). Considering the tough job that police have, statistics confirm professional restraint by our men in blue. The police should be commended for their great service in New York City. When there’s trouble, theirs is one of the toughest jobs in our community. Don’t expect it to get easier for them anytime soon.