Gregory R. Ball
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Greg Ball | |
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| In office 2007 – incumbent |
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| Preceded by | Willis Stephens, Jr. |
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| Born | September 16, 1977 Pawling, New York |
| Political party | Republican |
| Residence | Carmel, New York |
| Occupation | Businessman Air Force Officer Legislator |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Website | www.AssemblymanBall.com |
| Official Biography[1] | |
Gregory R. Ball (born September 16, 1977) is an American business executive, former active duty Air Force officer and member of the New York State Assembly. Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the Veteran's Affairs committee, and was the author of the measure enacted in the 2008 New York State budget offering free college tuition to military veterans.[2] He has risen to prominence for his views on immigration, and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group.[3] He is a resident of Carmel, New York.
Assemblyman Ball is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.[4] He represents New York's 99th assembly district which comprises the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster, in Putnam County; Yorktown, Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and both Pawling and Pawling Village in Duchess County.
Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, second amendment rights, animal protection, the environment, renewable energy and conservation, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office, and has referred to himself as "Albany’s loudest advocate for reform."[5]
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[edit] Early career and background
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of President John F. Kennedy, where his parents were both caretakers.[7] In 1996, he was awarded the Falcon Foundation Scholarship and attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman Sue Kelly.[1] He was the first member of his family to attend college.[8] While at Valley Forge, Ball interned in the White House Drug Policy Office during the term of President Bill Clinton.[8]
Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001, graduating with the highest GPA in his major.[9] He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at Georgetown University, and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.[10] Ball is a board member of the Valley Forge Military Academy & College Assocation of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.[11][12]
[edit] USAF service
| "Learning about Hispanic-Americans year-round is important to truly understand the history and future of this country. As citizens of a global community we find ourselves engaging others across borders without the constraints of distance as in years past. Indeed, our national family is benefiting greatly from the cultural infusion of many Hispanic practices that include a strong and committed work ethic, an undying appreciation and commitment to family, sincere patriotism and respect for others. Today, Hispanic culture continues to be a growing and essential facet of the American experience. There are more than 30 million Americans of Hispanic origin and they contribute to every facet of American life. Food, art, religion, government, language, music, science, business, agriculture, education and the military are just some of the examples of how Hispanic Americans contribute to the progress of America. As citizens of an increasingly diverse national community, we knowingly and unknowingly celebrate Hispanic heritage each and every day through our growing appreciation of Hispanic art, music, food and custom. Let us all take this blessed time to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of Hispanic heritage–a shared American treasure!" |
| 1LT Gregory R. Ball in the Bolling AFB post newspaper, October 11, 2002.[13] |
Ball was commissioned as an Air Force Lieutenant and requested an assignment with the Air Force Academy's Diversity Recruitment Office, and was posted in Philadelphia for a one year tour working as a Minority Admissions Officer.[14] While stationed there, he created a charity polo event for underprivileged youth known as the Courage Cup, which was featured on a cover of Sports Illustrated after presenting $10,000 to charities in 2004.[15]
Ball was then assigned to the 11th Wing at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington D.C. as protocol officer, a newly created services career field.[16] The Ceremonies & Protocol office was responsible for planning, organizing and devolping projects for the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff, as well as coordinating honor guard burial services at Arlington National Cemetery.[6][17][18][19]
During his time in the Ceremonies & Protocol Office, Ball was a Project Officer for numerous events. The largest may have been the 2003 Global Air Chief's Conference, the first since 1997, which he coordinated for 90 air power leaders from around the world, as well members of Congress, national dignitaries, industry leaders and diplomats on the 100th anniversary of powered flight.[20][21]
The young lieutenant was charged with directing National Hispanic Heritage Month in 2002, 2003, and 2004.[22] He organized special exhibits and demonstrations to recognize the many contributions made by Hispanic countries and cultures, and hosted Alberto Gonzales, then White House Counsel, in 2003.[9][22][23] Along with a volunteer committee, Ball washed cars in the base parking lot to raise donations for wing wide events to celebrate and recognize Hispanic-American service members and their contributions through out history.[24]
In 2003, Ball was nominated as "Military Volunteer of the Year" for the 11th Wing.[25] He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.[1][26] Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.[27]
[edit] Business career
Upon his separation from active duty, Ball was recruited by the Antioch, Illinois based Exceed International, a commercial development corporation with a presence in India, Turkey and Tunisia.[28] Placed in charge of the marketing department, he served as a team member with the Company President on a 38-company executive mission to an economic summit in New Delhi, which included representatives from companies such as Amex, Cargill, New York Life, Dow Chemical, General Electric, Bechtel, and Cognizant.[29] Later, Exceed invested $11.1 million in India to expand operations.[30] Construction began on six projects in Chennai, which included the ESPEE IT Park, and the Bascon Technology Park, which helped Exceed establish a foothold in India.[31][32] The company also invested as a joint venture partner in mixed use residential projects such as a water treatment facility.[33]
Eventually, Ball was elevated to Vice President of Exceed's Northeastern United States division and returned to New York.[34] The Illinois based developer employs nearly 400 people in various fields such as project management, development, architecture, engineering, construction, government relations, finance, and technology.[35][36] In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.[37] The village's Mayor noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".[37]
[edit] Political career
[edit] 2006 election
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.[38][39] Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.[40] Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.[41][42] He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.[43][44]
At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.[45] Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.[46] He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.[46] Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.[47]
On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.[48][49] Stephens was the victim of a negative campaign, and cited mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.[50][51] However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.[52][53][54][55] Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.[56]
Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.[58] Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for a Judgeship on the New York State Supreme Court in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.[59] Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.[60] The New York Court of Appeals eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.[61]
Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.[62][63] He was also buoyed by endorsements from the Poughkeepsie Journal, Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.[64][65] Inside of the district, Ball received more votes then any other candidate, including candidates running for Governor, Attorney General, Senate, Congress, and State Senate.[62] His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover The Journal News with fellow upset winer John Hall the day after the election.[66]
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Assemblyman Greg Ball's appearance on Fair Game with Faith Salie.[67]
Problems listening to the file? See media help. |
An excerpt from Assembly Greg Ball's weekly "Open Door" radio show, discussing 287(g) legislation.[68]
Problems listening to the file? See media help. |
A North County News interview with Assemblyman Greg Ball.[69]
Problems listening to the file? See media help. |
[edit] New York State Assembly (2007 – )
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."[70][71] He was sworn into office on January 8, 2007.[72][73] The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.[74][75][76] He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, Thomas DiNapoli as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor Eliot Spitzer consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.[77][78] The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.[79][80]
Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on Fox News, excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a YouTube video of his remarks was ranked 80th among new videos the day it was uploaded.[56][81] Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".[82]
[edit] State and local tax reform
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school and property tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by Massachusetts and fourteen other states.[84][85][86][87][88] Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.[83][89][90] He is also in favor of school tax reform, and has called New York State's School Tax Relief (STAR) Program a "band-aid".[91] Governor David Paterson also hinted that he feels the STAR program has been ineffective in an April 2008 interview with WGDJ Talk 1300[92], and said the program may be cut or changed in the future.[93][94]
He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases[95], including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.[96] Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"[97], requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.[98][99]
Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "pork" from the county budget.[97][100] Another state legislator, Sandra Galef, eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.[101] Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.[102][103] Hundreds of residents of Putnam County demonstrated outside Bondi's office in opposition to the tax increase, which was defeated.[104][105]
Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.[106][107] Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations.[108] Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.[109][110][111][112]
[edit] Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform,[113] Ball called on the Governor to resign when the The New York Times reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called Emperors Club VIP[114] and met with a call girl under the alias "George Fox".[115][116]
Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.
– Greg Ball[117]
The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.[118] He was replaced by his Lieutenant Governor, David Paterson.[119] Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."[120][121] Paterson's replacement as acting Lieutenant Governor, Joe Bruno, had previously faced calls to step down from Ball and others if the federal investigation into his business interests resulted in an indictment.[122]
[edit] Free college tuition for veterans
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.[110] Ball authored the bill that created the tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.[124][125][126] Although the first bill did not make it out of committee in 2007, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and garnered thirty-one cosponsors.[127] State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.[128] Previously, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation offered tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.[129]
Ball's legislation was picked up by the entire Assembly Republican Conference through their 2008 legislative package.[130] Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of 2008.[131] Governor Eliot Spitzer included the measure in his 2008 executive budget proposal, and the measure was kept funded in Governor David Paterson's version.[132]
The landmark legislation created a tuition remission program for veterans, and was passed by both houses of the State Legislature as Part N, Article 7 of the $121.7 billion 2008-09 state budget State Budget.[133][134] The Assemblyman was pleased that the program was fully funded by the budget, but stated "there is much more we can do and I am proud to stand here today to call on my colleagues in both houses, on both sides of the aisle, to honor our veterans and thank them for their service through enactment of legislation that will help improve their quality of life."[135] Ball and the Republican Assembly minority conference eventually voted against the Assembly's version of the budget, citing "funny numbers accounting, out of control spending, and unfunded mandates", and were praised for their fiscal conservatism by Governor Paterson, a Democrat, who did not rule out using his veto pen for member items.[136][137]
[edit] Committee work and legislation
His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.[139] He was also named as the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.[110]
The Assemblyman strongly opposes firearm microstamping, and participated in a discussion of the technology along side second amendment activists and representatives of the National Rifle Association and National Shooting Sports Foundation at a New York State Police shooting range in May of 2008.[140][141] The gun industry representatives were asked to leave by the event's organizers.[142] Ball had been invited by Assembly Democrat Michelle Schimel to the demonstration of microstamping technology.[143] Schimel's bill mandating microstamping was passed through the Assembly, against opposition led by Assemblyman Ball of 47 Assembly members of both parties, although the State Senate took no action on a similar item and it will not become law.[144][145] Gun control advocates want bullets fired from guns purchased in New York to be marked so they can be more easily traced to their origin, and opposing organizations have responded that the technology is unreliable, and greatly increases production costs for the gun industry, which would be passed on to gun owners.[146] The Assemblyman claims that the legislation unfairly impacts law abiding gun owners, as most homicides are committed with illegal firearms or guns purchased in another state that would not utilize microstamping.[147] As of 2008, only California had passed similar legislation.[148]
As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.[150] Ball worked closely with the Humane Society of the United States to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.[138]
The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.[151][152] The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of dog fighting.[153]
The Assemblyman has carried legislation to Albany for other constituents, including a measure in May of 2008 known as "Hannah's Law" which ensures a Yorktown couple receives insurance coverage for the formula that keeps their three daughter alive, making it mandatory for insurers to cover formulas for patients with rare eosinophilic disorders, and removes the $2,500 annual caps imposed by insurance plans that pay for formula.[154]
A regional task force created by Ball of families raising children affected by autism, professionals who work with autism, and government representatives met in January of 2008 "in order to identify areas of concern and to find better ways to ensure those with autism have the care and services they deserve."[149] Ball has cosponsored several bipartisan bills that impact New York’s children with autism and their families.[157] Ball is also working with organizations such as Autism Speaks to create "a regional warehouse of support and information for families raising children affected by Autism".[149]
He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.[158][159][160] He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their Somers, New York headquarters.[160]
[edit] Immigration issues
According to The Journal News, one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.[161] The New York Sun reported that Ball defines himself as a moderate on the immigration issue.[162] The Assemblyman has stated that America is a great nation because of its immigration population, and he supports legal immigration, and a fairer, and more open immigration policy with secure borders.[3] Analysis based on 2008 estimates of the illegal immigrant population residing in New York indicates that population costs state taxpayers more than $5.1 billion per year for education, medical care and incarceration of these undocumented residents.[163][164] Ball claims that the economy penalizes legal immigrants, unfairly impacts law abiding business owners, and exploits illegal laborers.[3]
He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.[165] Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.[7] In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.[166][167][168][169] He was at the forefront of the opposition to the plan, and his Statewide petition to stop it led to the Assembly Minority Conference's decision to sue the Governor to stop the plan.[91][170]
The Assemblyman introduced a bill that authorizes local police to detain and begin the deportation process immediately for illegal immigrants caught committing a crime known as the New York State Criminal Illegal Alien Deportation and Legal Hiring Act, and also cosponsored a series of immigration bills that passed in the State Assembly to crack down on contractors breaking state labor laws such as prevailing wage and IRS tax form 1099 misclassification.[171][172][173][174][175] The lawmaker has attempted to avert misconceptions about what he is trying to do, stressing that his bill's provisions require ICE to perform monthly searches of the state's registered sex-offender list to find criminal aliens, stating that "It's sad to watch some people turn a law-enforcement issue into an 'us- versus-them' argument. This is solely about focusing on the most violent criminal illegal aliens and making sure they're deported so they can't strike again in the state of New York."[176]
In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.[177][178] He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with Neil Cavuto.[179] The 287(g) partnership, created in 1996 under the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRAIRA), includes a five week training program on how to avoid racial profiling, and allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.[180] Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.[177][181] Ball held another regional summit in April of 2008.[182][183] He emphasized that deporting nonviolent offenders before their sentence was up would save the state money.[184]
He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically deported despite facing criminal charges.[180] Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.[177] Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."[178] The Assemblyman introduced a bill on behalf of 9/11 Families for a Secure America in April of 2008 that mandates implementation of the 287(g) program statewide.[187]
Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.[188] His campaign headquarters in Pawling, New York may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with swastikas in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.[189][190] An oft-quoted line from his campaign literature was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".[191][192] He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.[193][194][195] Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."[196][197][198]
[edit] Energy and conservation
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".[200] The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.[201][202]
| “ | The fundamental reality is that with gas prices and oil import costs rising every year, we must chart a new course based on renewable, cleaner energies. | ” |
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—Assemblyman Greg Ball[83] |
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The Assemblyman supported Greasestock, an yearly event held in Yorktown to showcase clean renewable energy.[203][204][205] The event was founded in 2003 by individuals interested in vegetable powered vehicles.[206] The event now includes a number of alternative fuel exhibits, showcasing new green technologies for vehicles and other applications.[207]
[edit] 2008 election
Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"[209] during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman John Hall in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.[70][210][211] Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."[212][213]
On March 17, 2008, Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman Douglas Colety, Putnam GOP Chairman Anthony Scannapieco, Jr., and Westchester County Executive candidate Rob Astorino.[214][215] Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.[216] In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."[217]
In early May of 2008, John Degnan, the former Mayor of Brewster, New York, announced he would be mounting a challenge to the freshman Assemblyman.[218] The Republican Assembly Campaign Committee issued a press release on Degnan's candidacy, stating that "There is no question that, unlike his opponent – who just last year ran with the backing of the Democrat Party – Assemblyman Greg Ball is a true Republican who has kept his promises. Greg Ball has been, and continues to be, a recognized leader in the fight to fix Albany by supporting real property tax relief, fiscal responsibility and the types of comprehensive reforms needed to repair a broken state government."[219][220]
[edit] Electoral history
| New York State Assembly, 99th district, 2006 – General Election[62] | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Party | Candidate | Votes | % | ±% | |
| Republican | Greg Ball | 20,956 | 50.8% | Republican hold | |
| Democratic | Ken Harper | 17,155 | 41.4% | ||
| Independence, Conservative | Willis Stephens, Jr. (I) | 3,228 | 7.8% | ||
| New York State Assembly, 99th district, 2006 – Republican Primary[221] | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Candidate | Votes | % | ±% | |
| ✓ | Greg Ball | 5,165 | 70.4% | Challenger pickup |
| Willis Stephens, Jr. (I) | 2,176 | 29.6% | ||
| Turnout | 7,341 | |||
[edit] Courage Cup
In January of 2007, Ball became involved in a dispute with Andrea Rodgers and Keri Ann Meslar, who ran a charity polo tournament known as the "Courage Cup." Ball had been stationed at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington D.C., when the first Courage Cup was held in 2004, raising money for charities including nearly $8,000 for the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania based Work to Ride program.[223] The event was created to bring together Washington professionals and the polo community together for a good cause, and a good time, and grew to become one of the largest polo events on the east coast.[224] Ball founded the charity in 2004, prior to his run for office.[225] His former friends resisted his attempt to retake a leadership role in 2007, and Ball countered that he was the Courage Cup's rightful owner and that the two women stole his intellectual property.[226]
A Washington Post article from June of 2007 implied that one of the event directors offered tickets at difference price level with proceeds going to a Political Action Committee which would later support Ball, although Ball's campaign stated it had nothing to do with the fund raising and that the destination of profits from the event were clearly stated on the purchase form. Despite this, several Courage Cup supporters were surprised that what they believed were charitable contributions were used for political purposes.[227] Phillip Karber, a member of the board of directors for The Courage Cup who described himself as a neutral party, stated that "Ball has done a phenomenal job of getting this thing organized and getting it started. The new people did a good job of not letting it die."[223]
[edit] Notes
- ^ a b c d e "Official Biography of Assemblyman Greg Ball". New York State Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ "Veterans To Receive Free SUNY Tuition". Westchester.com. April 15, 2008.
- ^ a b c Ball, Greg. "Standing up against illegal economy based exploitation". New York State Assembly. March 31, 2008.
- ^ "Committee memberships". New York State Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Benjamin, Elizabeth. "Reform Advocate No. 1?". Albany Times-Union. March 29, 2007.
- ^ a b "I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–Col. Joseph P. Green, USAF (Ret.), E-Mail to Bob Fois. June 6, 2006.
- ^ a b Klein, Benjamin. "Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire". Legislative Gazette. January 16, 2007.
- ^ a b c "About Greg". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ a b "Alumni Spotlight". The Forge. December 2003.
- ^ Henderson, Robert E., ed. "A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows". Washington, DC: CSP, 2003.
- ^ "Committees of the Board". Air Force Academy Association of Graduates. Retrieved on February 26, 2008.
- ^ Greene, Mae. "Chamber of Commerce awardees". Pawling News-Chronicle. September 7, 2007.
- ^ "Hispanic-American Heritage Month". The Beam. October 11, 2002.
- ^ Vogrin, Bill. "AFA wants more help recruiting minorities". The Gazette. May 5, 2007.
- ^ "Wing lieutenant hosts Va. charity polo event". The Beam. June 24, 2004.
- ^ Lopez, Todd. "Protocol, aide de camp special duties move". The Beam. March 6, 2003.
- ^ Estrada, Louie. "Master of Air Force Ceremonies, Embodiment of Honor, Dignity". Washington Post. December 7, 2003.
- ^ "VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". Poughkeepsie Journal. October 29, 2006.
- ^ Ball, Jo A. Protocol Handbook - A Guide for the Base Protocol Officer. Report Number 86-0180. Air Command and Staff College, April 1986.
- ^ Lopez, Todd. "Global air chiefs discuss air power at AFA convention". The Beam. September 18, 2003.
- ^ "FBO DAILY ISSUE OF JULY 25, 2003 FBO #0603". Department of the Air Force, Direct Reporting Units, 11th CONS, 110 Luke Avenue (Bldg 5681) Suite 200, Bolling AFB, DC, 20332-0305. Retrieved June 1, 2008.
- ^ a b Mitenbueler, Reid. "Hispanic-American Heritage Month". The Beam. September 25, 2003.
- ^ Oyola, Ranell. "Hispanics in service to the nation". The Beam. September 18, 2003.
- ^ "Wing to observe Hispanic-American Heritage Month". The Beam. September 12, 2003.
- ^ Robinson, Thom. "Wing taps its best from 2003 for annual recognition". The Beam. March 25, 2004.
- ^ Benson, John. "Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review". Pawling News-Chronicle. December 29, 2005.
- ^ Benson, John. "Community salutes military families". Pawling News-Chronicle. December 20, 2006.
- ^ Chandramouly , Anjana. "American dream... in India". Business Line. March 17, 2006.
- ^ Germain, David. "U.S.-India Business Council Mounts 38-Company 4-City Executive Mission to India". US Newswire. March 2, 2007.
- ^ "US-based Exceed Int'l launches India Operations". AsiaPulse News. November 22, 2004.
- ^ "US construction co Exceed to build IT park in Chennai". Business Line. November 20, 2004.
- ^ Ramesh, M. "US construction co Exceed bags 6 projects in Chennai". Business Line. November 20, 2004.
- ^ "Exceed to invest Rs 50 crore in its Indian arm". Business Standard. November 20, 2004.
- ^ "The Next Economy". Exceed International. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Drummond, Sara. "India calls". CIRE Magazine. January 2006.
- ^ Kuyper, Diana. "Retail, condos encouraged". News Sun. October 11, 2005.
- ^ a b "Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown". Putnam County Courier. March 24, 2006.
- ^ Wagenseil, Paul. "Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots", Associated Press, June 30, 2005.
- ^ "Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". Poughkeepsie Journal. May 31, 2005.
- ^ "Index to Politicians: Stephens". The Political Graveyard. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Greg’s been spending". The Journal News. July 13, 2006.
- ^ "New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is". The Journal News. July 11, 2006.
- ^ "Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". Poughkeepsie Journal. April 27, 2005.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of". The Journal News. May 31, 2006.
- ^ a b Barron, Sam. "Ball Fires at Will", North County News, August 23, 2006.
- ^ "Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues". League of Women Voters. Retrieved February 28, 2007.
- ^ Lopriore, Danny. "Ball Rolls". North County News. September 13, 2006.
- ^ "Primary 2006", NY1 News, September 2006.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Strange bedfellows". The Journal News. August 10, 2006.
- ^ Rentz, Neal. "Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line". North County News. August 30, 2006.
- ^ Fois, Bob. "More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military". News Copy. May 25, 2006.
- ^ "Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race", The Journal News, September 2006.
- ^ "Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". Poughkeepsie Journal. March 8, 2006.
- ^ Fois, Bob. "99th: Ball's military record assailed". News Copy. June 29, 2006.
- ^ a b Confessore, Nicholas. "Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice". New York Times. February 10, 2007.
- ^ a b Kemnitz, Aaron. "School tax reform discussed in forum". Millbrook Roundtable. June 15, 2007.
- ^ Wilbur, Martin. "Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench". North County News. December 10, 2006.
- ^ "99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun", News Copy, September 14, 2006.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Stephens stays off ballot". The Journal News. October 27, 2006.
- ^ "HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448". New York Appellate Division Reports. November 2, 2006.
- ^ a b c "NYS Board of Elections - Assembly - Vote - Nov. 7, 2006". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved on February 22, 2008.
- ^ Lopriore, Danny. "Republican survives Democrat wave to win". North County News. November 22, 2006.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Sheriffs got their man". The Journal News. October 30, 2006.
- ^ "Ball has earned chance to serve". Poughkeepsie Journal. October 21, 2006.
- ^ Stone, Adam. "Greg Ball, John Hall". North County News. December 30, 2006.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball on the air". The Journal News. February 28, 2007.
- ^ "Leadership matters". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved May 20, 2008.
- ^ Rundgren, Todd. "Greg Ball interview". North County News. December 26, 2006.
- ^ a b Risinit, Mike. "Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08". The Journal News. December 31, 2007.
- ^ "GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". Poughkeepsie Journal. April 21, 2007.
- ^ Kramer, Catherine. "Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform". Legislative Gazette. January 8, 2007.
- ^ "Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". Poughkeepsie Journal. January 3, 2007.
- ^ Hammond, Bill. "My voice will be heard". Daily News. February 8, 2007.
- ^ "Joint Legislative Session". New York State Assembly. SenNet TV. 2007-02-07.
- ^ Gallagher, Jay. "Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker". The Journal News. March 6, 2007.
- ^ a b "The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll". Albany Times-Union. February 9, 2007.
- ^ Cooper, Michael. "" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer". New York Times. February 8, 2007.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Eliot's on the phone". The Journal News. February 9, 2007.
- ^ "Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". Poughkeepsie Journal. January 17, 2007.
- ^ "Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". Poughkeepsie Journal. February 8, 2007.
- ^ Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform". New York University School of Law Brennan Center for Justice. Retrieved on February 28, 2008.
- ^ a b c "Fuel Prices Are Out of Control". New York State Assembly. February 12, 2008. Retrieved on February 25, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball on the Governors Address". The Journal News. January 10, 2008.
- ^ "Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". Poughkeepsie Journal. April 6, 2007.
- ^ Lucas, Ashley. "Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues". Legislative Gazette. June 18, 2007.
- ^ Barron, Sam. "School tax reform gains steam". North County News. May 30, 2007.
- ^ Haavie, Erikah. "Board encourages Assembly to focus on school tax relief". The Register-Herald. April 24, 2008.
- ^ "Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process". New York State Assembly. January 25, 2007.
- ^ "Bill Summary - A02755". New York State Assembly. Retrieved on March 23, 2008.
- ^ a b Macura, Susan. "Ball hosts Pawling Town Hall meeting". Pawling News Chronicle. April 10, 2008.
- ^ Spector, Joseph. "Paterson: Maybe STAR should be cut". Journal News. April 21, 2008.
- ^ "David Paterson, Neocon?". New York Sun. April 9, 2008.
- ^ Spector, Joseph. "Paterson may take aim at STAR rebates". Press & Sun-Bulletin. April 22, 2008.
- ^ Wieland, James. "News from Assemblyman Ball". Yonkers Insider. June 27, 2007.
- ^ Matthews, Cara. "Raging against the machine". The Journal News. June 21, 2007.
- ^ a b Elan, Susan. "Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum". The Journal News. April 24, 2007.
- ^ Sternberg, Margaret. "Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through". Putnam County News and Recorder. May 2, 2007.
- ^ Sternberg, Margaret. "County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms". Putnam County News and Recorder. May 9, 2007.
- ^ Sternberg, Margaret. "County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee". Putnam County News and Recorder. April 4, 2007.
- ^ Leiter, Maria. "County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase". Putnam County News and Recorder. July 25, 2007.
- ^ Boisi, Patrick. "Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation". North County News. September 12, 2007.
- ^ Anderson, Liz. "Ball to Bondi: Resign now". The Journal News. September 7, 2007.
- ^ Brenner, Elsa. "Taxes climb and tempers flare". New York Times. October 7, 2007.
- ^ "Budget 2008". Putnam County Finance Department. Retrieved April 23, 2008.
- ^ "Empire Zone comes to Putnam County". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ "State approves Putnam County Empire Zone". Mid-Hudson News. February 8, 2008.
- ^ Gross, Eric. "Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County". Putnam County Courier. February 14, 2008.
- ^ "Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program". North County News. February 13, 2008.
- ^ a b c "A Community News Letter: Pawling", vol 1., Issue 3. New York State Assembly. October 2007.
- ^ Foley, Kevin. "ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office". Putnam County News and Recorder. February 6, 2008.
- ^ "Ball Announces Grants for Town Of Somers". Westchester Times Tribune. July 7, 2007.
- ^ "Ball and Spitzer Standing Up for Reform". Westchester Times Tribune. February 15, 2007.
- ^ Feuer, Alan. "Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring", The New York Times, 2008-03-07.
- ^ CNN (2008-03-10). Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation. Retrieved on 2008-03-10.
- ^ Hakim, Danny; William K. Rashbaum (March 10, 2008). Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring. N.Y. / Region. The New York Times. Retrieved on 2008-03-10.
- ^ "Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring". Ball for Assembly. March 11, 2008.
- ^ Eliot Spitzer (March 12, 2008). "Full Text of Spitzer Resignation". New York Times.
- ^ Confessore, Nicholas; Jeremy W. Peters. "Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany", New York Times, March 13, 2008. Retrieved on 2008-03-17.
- ^ Mansfield, Melissa. "Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda", Newsday, 2008-03-12. Retrieved on 2008-03-12.
- ^ "Governor Spitzer resigns". Ball for Assembly. March 18, 2008.
- ^ Chan, Sewell and Hakim, Danny. "Labor Unions Stand by Bruno as Details of Inquiry Emerge". New York Times. December 23, 2006.
- ^ "Your legislators". Poughkeepsie Journal. April 13, 2008.
- ^ "Bill Summary - A08532". New York State Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Scott, Larry. "COMBAT VETS, GOING BACK TO VIETNAM, TO GET FREE TUITION AT N.Y. STATE UNIVERSITIES". VA Watchdog. April 16, 2008.
- ^ "Veterans To Receive Free Suny Tuition". Westchester-1. April 15, 2008.
- ^ "Bill Summary - A09701". New York State Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ "Making college education more affordable". New York State Senate. March 1, 2007. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ "Veterans Tuition Awards". New York State Higher Education Services Corporation. Retrieved on February 25, 2008.
- ^ "Ball delivers for veterans". Ball for Assembly. April 8, 2008.
- ^ "The Whoville Legislative Register". New York Veterans of Foreign Wars. Vol. 5, No. 6. February 5, 2008.
- ^ "Part N – Amend the Education Law in relation to tuition assistance for veterans, Memorandum in Support Article VII Legislation, Education, Labor, and Family Assistance, Enacted Budget, 2008-09 New York State Executive Budget." New York State Division of the Budget. Retrieved April 11, 2008.
- ^ "The veteran community would like to thank the governor, Senate, Assembly, and Assemblyman Greg Ball, R-Carmel, ranking minority member of the Assembly Veteran Affairs Committee, for proposing and passing into law the New York State G.I. Bill. After Assemblyman Ball introduced the legislation ... this landmark program was included in the executive budget proposal, as well as in the budget plans submitted by both houses of the legislature. Assemblyman Ball first introduced this proposal in May of 2007 and we thank the Legislature for its quick action on this important bill. This legislation will afford a combat vet up to four years of free tuition at a SUNY or CUNY campus. This opportunity offers a good start to remove the many obstacles our service men and women face when they come home and assimilate back into the community. Assemblyman Ball and his colleagues are to be applauded for making this bill a top legislative priority. That landmark has been included in the 2008-09 state budget at a $2 million level of funding. This was a great victory for the thousands of veterans it will help. Indeed, it is incumbent upon all of us to get the word out to all of New York's combat veterans to take advantage of this historic program."–Joseph Franklin, Chairman of the National Disabled Veterans Business Council. Letter to the Editor, May 1, 2008.
- ^ "Ball to announce enactment of landmark program to provide Veterans with free college tuition". Ball for Assembly. April 10, 2008.
- ^ Neroulias, Nicole. "New York's new budget funds veterans tuition assistance". Journal News. April 10, 2008.
- ^ Benjamin, Elizabeth. "Paterson Praises Assembly GOP, Gets Standing Os". Daily News. April 14, 2008.
- ^ "Ball Alarmed By "Funny Numbers" Budget". New York State Assembly. April 1, 2008.
- ^ a b Summers, Kathleen. "Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills". Humane Society of the United States. November 27, 2007.
- ^ "New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature". New York Farm Bureau. September 11, 2007. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Ball at firearms demonstration". The Journal News. May 19, 2008.
- ^ "Microstamping Gun Cartridges". WTEN. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Merrill, Paul. "Gun bill jammed". FOX 23 News. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Senison, Heather. "Microstamping demonstration turns into heated debated". Legislative Gazette. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Karlin, Rick. "Bullet microstamping efforts appear stalled". Albany Times-Union. May 20, 2008.
- ^ "Microstamping demonstration held in Albany". Capital News 9. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Spector, Joseph. "Ball Video on Gun Legislation". The Journal News. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Waldron, Will. "Bullet debate". Albany Times-Union. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Bernstein, Jenn. "Microstamping demonstration held in Albany". News 10 Now. May 20, 2008.
- ^ a b c "Assemblyman Ball hosts regional conference on autism". Targeted News Service. January 18, 2008.
- ^ "Ball Supports Animal Rights". New York State Assembly. August 3, 2008.
- ^ Flaim, Denise. "Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end". Newsday. December 13, 2007.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays". The Journal News. December 19, 2007.
- ^ "Animal Protection". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved March 10, 2008.
- ^ Elan, Susan. "'Hannah's Law' would help allergic child". The Journal News. May 19, 2008.
- ^ "Ball joins Yorktown's French Hill commemorative celebration". Westchester Times Tribune. June 5, 2008.
- ^ Calidonna, Maria. "Students unveil living history project". North County News. June 4, 2008.
- ^ "Ball to host regional conference on autism". New York State Assembly. Retrieved June 4, 2008.
- ^ According to "Facts & Figures" from the New York State Taxpayers Union, New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.
- ^ Dumas, Bob. "Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers". North County News. January 23, 2008.
- ^ a b Driscoll, Eugene. "Danbury trying to woo Pepsi". Danbury News-Times. February 13, 2008.
- ^ West, Debra. "The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives". The Journal News. August 12, 2007.
- ^ Garland, Sarah. "Immigration Foes Will Search for Common Ground at Conference". New York Sun. May 30, 2008.
- ^ "Cost of Illegal Immigration to New Yorkers". FAIR. Retrieved April 24, 2008.
- ^ According to FAIR, a non-partisan, non-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization in the United States, the breakdown of the $5.1 billion in costs includes $4.3 billion annually one education for the children of illegal immigrants, $690 million in taxpayer funded, unreimbursed medical outlays for health care, and $165 million in incarcerating deportable illegal aliens in state and local prisons. The annual tax burden is approximately $874 per New York household. If revenues were raised by collecting sales, property and income taxes from illegal immigrants (an estimated $730 million), FAIR estimates that the net cost would still amount to more than $4.5 billion per year.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Just say no". The Journal News. June 26, 2007.
- ^ Chase, Kelly A. "DMV debate is focus of special session Cuomo set to defend state against legal challenges to new policy". Legislative Gazette. October 29, 2007.
- ^ Blain, Glenn. "Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan". The Journal News. October 1, 2007.
- ^ Barron, Sam. "Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy". North County News. October 3, 2007.
- ^ "GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". Poughkeepsie Journal. March 2, 2007.
- ^ "Assembly GOP to Sue Governor and Dept. of Motor Vehicles". Westchester Times Tribune. October 4, 2007.
- ^ Matthews, Cara. "Debate continues on how to police illegal immigrants". Press & Sun-Bulletin. May 23, 2008.
- ^ Rojas, Marcela. "Proposed law bars Southeast contractors from hiring illegals". Journal News. April 11, 2008.
- ^ Anderson, Stacy A. "New bill regarding criminal illegal immigrants receives mixed response". Journal News. April 20, 2008.
- ^ Gross, Eric. "Ball's bill on illegal immigration divides public". Putnam County Courier. April 24, 2008.
- ^ Rae, Lea. "Greg Ball to announce enforcement bill". Journal News. April 16, 2008.
- ^ Matthews, Cara. "Lawmakers want local police to help regulate illegal immigrants". Democrat and Chronicle. May 25, 2008.
- ^ a b c Gross, Eric. "Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces". Putnam County Courier. February 21, 2008.
- ^ a b Driscoll, Eugene. "N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails". Danbury News-Times. February 13, 2008.
- ^ "Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto". Your World with Neil Cavuto. Fox News. 2008-01-01.
- ^ a b Hughes, Jennifer. "Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation". New York Times. February 24, 2008.
- ^ "Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". Poughkeepsie Journal. December 16, 2007.
- ^ Rae, Leah. "Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role". The Journal News. February 10, 2008.
- ^ Rae, Leah. "Ball immigration bill opposed by state correction officials". Journal News. April 19, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball seeks to deport illegal immigrants convicted of crimes". Journal News. April 18, 2008.
- ^ Stone, Adam. "Ball pledges Albany reform". North County News. December 27, 2006.
- ^ "1 in GOP welcomes Spitzer reforms". Poughkeepsie Journal. March 14, 2007.
- ^ Gadiel, Peter. "NY State Introduces Bill To Ban Sanctuary Cities & Require Enforcement Of Immigration". Family Security Matters. April 24, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Move over, Yellow Pages". The Journal News. April 25, 2007.
- ^ "GOP candidate is target of vandals". Poughkeepsie Journal. November 2, 2006.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Definitely a trick". The Journal News. November 1, 2006.
- ^ Applebome, Peter. "When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration". New York Times. November 11, 2007.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety". The Journal News. December 13, 2007.
- ^ "Lawmakers for Legal Immigration". Retrieved March 23, 2008.
- ^ "Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.
- ^ Rae, Leah. "Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’". The Journal News. February 14, 2008.
- ^ Homayonpour, Marietta. "Should Danbury partner with ICE?". Danbury News-Times. December 31, 2007.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Not visiting Connecticut". The Journal News. April 30, 2007.
- ^ "United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement". Retrieved March 23, 2008.
- ^ Blainn, Glenn. "Sliwa to lend support for Greg Ball". The Journal News. May 6, 2008.
- ^ Gross, Eric. "Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion". Putnam County Courier. March 6, 2008.
- ^ Berg, Weston. "Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up". Pawling News-Chronicle. April 20, 2007.
- ^ "Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". Poughkeepsie Journal. October 19, 2007.
- ^ "Greasestock 2008". Greasestock. Retrieved May 20, 2008.
- ^ Max, Josh. "Gas-guzzlers become veggie delights at Greasestock in Yorktown Heights". Daily News. May 13, 2008.
- ^ "Greasestock 2008: Alternative Fuel, Fun and French Fries". Natural Awakenings. May 2008.
- ^ Norman, Jim. "Where There’s Never an Oil Shortage". New York Times. May 13, 2007.
- ^ Tillman, Adriane. "Greasestock Festival returns, bigger and better". May 14, 2008.
- ^ "The Ball Express: Volunteer Night at Campaign Office". Ball for Assembly. May 12, 2008.
- ^ Blain, Glenn. "Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?". The Journal News. December 4, 2007.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball may run for House seat". The Journal News. December 17, 2007.
- ^ Blain, Glenn. "Ball not running for Congress". The Journal News. December 31, 2007.
- ^ "Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". Poughkeepsie Journal. January 1, 2008.
- ^ "Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". Poughkeepsie Journal. December 27, 2007.
- ^ "St. Patrick's Day Brunch". Ball for Assembly. Retrieved on March 16, 2008.
- ^ "Ball launches re-election". Tara Rosenblum, Anchor. Evening edition. News 12 Networks Westchester. N12WC. 2008-03-16.
- ^ "A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball". New York Board of Elections. January 2008.
- ^ a b "Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign". News 12 Networks. March 16, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Ex-mayor challenges 99th's Ball". Poughkeepsie Journal. May 12, 2008.
- ^ "RACC’S GOT GREG BALL’S BACK". New York State Republican Assembly Campaign Committee. May 19, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Ball has a friend in RACC". The Journal News. May 19, 2008.
- ^ "September 12, 2006 Primary Vote Assembly Districts". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved on February 22, 2008.
- ^ "Ball seeks another Assembly term". Mid-Hudson News. March 17, 2008.
- ^ a b "Assemblyman Ball trading shots in D.C. charity polo event debate". The Journal News. February 2, 2007
- ^ "About the event". Courage Cup. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
- ^ "Assemblyman defends aid from fundraiser". Poughkeepsie Journal. June 13, 2007.
- ^ Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "Courage Cup Organizers Cross Polo Mallets". Washington Post, C03. February 6, 2007.
- ^ Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "Courage Cup: Ponying Up For Whose Charity?". Washington Post, C01. June 12, 2007.
[edit] External links
- Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York
- Ball for Assembly Campaign Website
- Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball
- Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball
- Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications
- Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.
- Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball
- League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball
| Preceded by Willis Stephens, Jr. |
New York State Assembly 99th District 2007–present |
Incumbent |
| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| NAME | Ball, Greg |
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES | Ball, Gregory R. |
| SHORT DESCRIPTION | Politician |
| DATE OF BIRTH | September 16, 1977 |
| PLACE OF BIRTH | Pawling, New York |
| DATE OF DEATH | |
| PLACE OF DEATH | |
