Greg Ball (politician): Difference between revisions
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State police are investigating a threat, in the form of a dead goat with a note, aimed at State Assemblyman Gregory Ball (R-Patterson). The black and white goat with horns was found Thursday night on the street outside Ball’s home with an abusive message tied around its neck. |
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| name = Greg Ball |
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| image = Ball - Version 2.jpg|200px |
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| birth_date = September 16, 1977 |
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| birth_place = {{dn|Pawling, New York}} |
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| residence = [[Patterson, New York|Carmel]], [[New York]] |
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| death_date = |
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| death_place = |
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| office = [[New York's 99th assembly district|Assemblyman, 99th District]] |
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| salary = |
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| term_start = 2007 |
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| term_end = incumbent |
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| predecessor = [[Will Stephens|Willis Stephens, Jr.]] |
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| successor = |
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| party = [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] |
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| religion = Catholic |
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| occupation = Businessman<br />Air Force Officer<br />Legislator |
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| majority = |
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| spouse = |
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| children = |
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| website = [http://www.assemblymangball.com www.AssemblymanBall.com] |
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| footnotes = [http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=bio Official Biography]<ref name="officialbio">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=bio Official Biography of Assemblyman Greg Ball]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> |
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| branch = [[United States Air Force]] |
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| serviceyears=2001– |
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| rank =[[Captain (U.S. Air Force)|Captain]] |
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}} |
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'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an American business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. He serves as the [[ranking member]] on the [[veterans|Veterans' Affairs]] committee, and was the author of the measure enacted in the 2008 New York State budget offering free college [[tuition]] to military [[veterans]].<ref>"[http://www.westchester.com/Westchester_News/Government/Veterans_To_Receive_Free_Suny_Tuition_200804159585.html Veterans To Receive Free SUNY Tuition]". ''[http://westchester.com Westchester.com]''. April 15, 2008.</ref> He has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration to the United States|immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group.<ref name="teddyroosevelt">Ball, Greg. "[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20080331/ Standing up against illegal economy based exploitation]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. March 31, 2008.</ref> He is a resident of [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[New York]]. |
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Gregory Ball is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> He represents [[New York's 99th assembly district]] which comprises the towns [[Patterson, New York|Patterson]], [[Mahopac, New York|Mahopac]], [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[Southeast, New York|Southeast]], [[Putnam Lake, New York|Putnam Lake]] and [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]], in [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]]; [[Yorktown, New York|Yorktown]], [[Mohegan Lake, New York|Mohegan Lake]], [[Somers, New York|Somers]], and [[North Salem, New York|North Salem]] in [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County]]; and both [[Pawling (town), New York|Pawling]] and [[Pawling (village), New York|Pawling Village]] in [[Dutchess County, New York|Duchess County]]. |
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In broken Spanish, scrawled on a scrap of cardboard, the note called Ball an “(expletive) American” and was signed MS-13, the name of a notorious Central American gang. |
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Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent [[Willis Stephens]] in a primary in September 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in [[Albany, New York|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 called himself "Albany’s loudest advocate for reform."<ref>Benjamin, Elizabeth. "[http://blogs.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/4249 Reform Advocate No. 1?]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. March 29, 2007.</ref> |
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While the two-term assemblyman has supported legislation aimed at deporting violent illegal immigrants, he said he thinks the gang threat is phony because some of the note’s Spanish was misspelled. |
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== Early career and background == |
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Ball suspects the message could signal retaliation from some disenfranchised constituents. When he won his seat, in 2006, he knocked out a family line that had been in power in Putnam County for more than 70 years. Ball also said he took on organized crime in Danbury. Perhaps the culprits knew the assemblyman was a long-time 4-H member who used to raise goats like the one dumped by his house. |
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[[Image:gregball10.jpg|220px|thumb|right|Air Force Captain Greg Ball graduated from the [[United States Air Force Academy]].<ref name="jpgreen"/>]] |
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Ball was born in {{dn|Pawling, New York|Pawling}}, [[New York]], and grew up on the Kennedy estate of [[Stephen Edward Smith|Stephen]] and [[Jean Kennedy|Jean Kennedy-Smith]], sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. January 16, 2007.</ref> In 1996, he was awarded the Falcon Foundation Scholarship and attended the [[Valley Forge Military Academy and College|Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the [[United States Air Force Academy]] from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> While at Valley Forge, Ball interned in the [[White House]] [[ONDCP|Drug Policy Office]] during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]].<ref name="campaignbio"/> |
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Ball received a [[Bachelors of Arts]] in Government in 2001, graduating with the highest GPA in his major.<ref name="theforge">"[http://www.vfmac.edu/pdf/TheForge_2003Winter.pdf Alumni Spotlight]". ''[http://www.vfmac.edu/alumni.html The Forge]''. December 2003.</ref> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in [[international relations|International Affairs]] at [[Georgetown University]], and was a [[fellow]] at the [[Center for the Study of the Presidency]] from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Valley Forge Military Academy & College Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area [[Chambers of Commerce]] and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on February 26, 2008.</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. September 7, 2007.</ref> |
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Whatever the reason or source, Ball said he hopes the female nubian dairy goat was predeceased before she became a tool for intimidation. “If they actually killed this animal to make a political threat, they’re beyond help,” he said. |
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===USAF service=== |
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This is not the first time Ball has been victimized. His car was keyed on Christmas Eve. He once received a death threat by phone in the middle of the night, and his campaign headquarters was vandalized. The retired Air Force officer, who is considering a Congressional run against Rep. John Hall (D-Dover Plains) in the 19th District, said he “will not be cowed by threats.” |
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| style="text-align: left;" |"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!" |
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| style="text-align: left;" | '''''1LT Gregory R. Ball in the Bolling AFB post newspaper,''' October 11, 2002.''<ref name="ha2">"[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/101102/19767-1.shtml Hispanic-American Heritage Month]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. October 11, 2002.</ref> |
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Ball was commissioned as an Air Force Lieutenant and requested an assignment with the Air Force Academy's [[Military recruitment|Diversity Recruitment Office]], and was posted in [[Philadelphia]] for a one year tour working as a [[community outreach|Minority Admissions Officer]].<ref>Vogrin, Bill. "[http://www2.gazette.com/usafa/display.php?id=1331266&secid=50 AFA wants more help recruiting minorities]". ''[[The Gazette (Colorado Springs)|The Gazette]]''. May 5, 2007.</ref> While stationed there, he created a charity polo event for underprivileged youth known as the [[Gregory R. Ball#Courage Cup|Courage Cup]], which presented $10,000 to charities in 2004.<ref>"[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/062404/29806-1.shtml Wing lieutenant hosts Va. charity polo event]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. June 24, 2004.</ref> |
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Ball was then assigned to the [[11th Wing]] at [[Bolling Air Force Base]] in [[Washington D.C.]] as [[Aide-de-camp|protocol officer]], a newly created services career field.<ref>Lopez, Todd. "[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/030603/21939-1.shtml Protocol, aide de camp special duties move]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. March 6, 2003.</ref> 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]].<ref name="jpgreen">"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."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. June 6, 2006.</ref><ref>Estrada, Louie. "[http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/rory-crissman.htm Master of Air Force Ceremonies, Embodiment of Honor, Dignity]". ''[[Washington Post]]''. December 7, 2003.</ref><ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. October 29, 2006.</ref><ref>Ball, Jo A. ''[http://stinet.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA168427&Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf Protocol Handbook - A Guide for the Base Protocol Officer]''. Report Number 86-0180. Air Command and Staff College, April 1986.</ref> |
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State police are investigating. Anyone with information should contact Investigator Thomas Gonska at 279-8656. |
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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 [[List of air forces|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.<ref>Lopez, Todd. "[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/091803/25277-1.shtml Global air chiefs discuss air power at AFA convention]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. September 18, 2003.</ref><ref>"[http://www.fbodaily.com/archive/2003/07-July/25-Jul-2003/FBO-00379833.htm 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.</ref> |
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**************************************************************** |
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OH, PLEASE! The guy probably killed the goat himself for the publicity! I'll bet he wants to be governor or Congressman or Senator! |
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The young lieutenant was charged with directing [[National Hispanic Heritage Month]] in 2002, 2003, and 2004.<ref name="hamo">Mitenbueler, Reid. "[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/092503/25483-1.shtml Hispanic-American Heritage Month]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. September 25, 2003.</ref> 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.<ref name="theforge"/><ref name="hamo"/><ref>Oyola, Ranell. "[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/091803/25290-1.shtml Hispanics in service to the nation]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. September 18, 2003.</ref> 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.<ref name="ha1">"[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/091203/25126-1.shtml Wing to observe Hispanic-American Heritage Month]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. September 12, 2003.</ref> |
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**************************************************************** |
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In 2003, Ball was nominated as "Military Volunteer of the Year" for the 11th Wing.<ref>Robinson, Thom. "[http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/032504/28120-1.shtml Wing taps its best from 2003 for annual recognition]". ''[http://www.dcmilitary.com/bolling.shtml The Beam]''. March 25, 2004.</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by [[General (United States)|General]] [[John P. Jumper]] and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of [[Captain (OF-2)|Captain]].<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. December 29, 2005.</ref> Ball remains in the [[Individual Ready Reserve|U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve]].<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. December 20, 2006.</ref> |
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===Business career=== |
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[[Image:gregball9.jpg|255px|thumb|right|While serving as a State Assemblyman, Ball maintains a commission as a Captain in the [[Air Force]] [[Individual Ready Reserve]] (IRR).<ref name="campaignbio"/>]] |
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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]].<ref>Chandramouly , Anjana. "[http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/life/2006/03/17/stories/2006031700210300.htm American dream... in India]". ''[[Business Line]]''. March 17, 2006.</ref> 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 [[American Express|Amex]], [[Cargill]], [[New York Life]], [[Dow Chemical]], [[General Electric]], [[Bechtel]], and [[Cognizant]].<ref> |
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Germain, David. "[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29837851_ITM U.S.-India Business Council Mounts 38-Company 4-City Executive Mission to India]". ''[[US Newswire]]. March 2, 2007.</ref> Later, Exceed invested $11.1 million in India to expand operations.<ref>"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-14541414_ITM US-based Exceed Int'l launches India Operations]". ''[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/browse_JJ_A181 AsiaPulse News]''. November 22, 2004.</ref> Construction began on six projects in [[Chennai]], which included the [[List of Tech Parks in Chennai|ESPEE IT Park]], and the [[List of Tech Parks in Chennai|Bascon Technology Park]], which helped Exceed establish a foothold in India.<ref>"[http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/11/20/stories/2004112001011700.htm US construction co Exceed to build IT park in Chennai]". ''[[Business Line]]''. November 20, 2004.</ref><ref>Ramesh, M. "[http://www.blonnet.com/2005/03/30/stories/2005033001610200.htm US construction co Exceed bags 6 projects in Chennai]". ''[[Business Line]]''. November 20, 2004.</ref> The company also invested as a joint venture partner in mixed use residential projects such as a water treatment facility.<ref>"[http://www.business-standard.com/search/storypage_new.php?leftnm=lmnu1&leftindx=1&lselect=1&autono=194032 Exceed to invest Rs 50 crore in its Indian arm]". ''[[Business Standard]]''. November 20, 2004.</ref> |
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Eventually, Ball was elevated to Vice President of Exceed's Northeastern United States division and returned to New York.<ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> The [[Illinois]] based developer employs nearly 400 people in various fields such as project management, development, architecture, engineering, construction, government relations, finance, and technology.<ref>Drummond, Sara. "[http://www.ciremagazine.com/article.php?article_id=894 India calls]". ''[http://ciremagazine.com CIRE Magazine]''. January 2006.</ref><ref>Kuyper, Diana. "[http://www.exceedintl.com/News%20Sun%20Lindenhurst%2011OCT05.pdf Retail, condos encouraged]". ''[[News Sun]]''. October 11, 2005.</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]] which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. March 24, 2006.</ref> 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".<ref name="exceed1"/> |
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==Political career== |
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===2006 election=== |
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{{seealso|New York's 99th assembly district#2006 election}} |
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[[Image:gregball1.jpg|thumb|280px|right|Greg Ball, a Vice President of Exceed International Corporation, during an economic development tour of India in 2005.<ref name="officialbio"/>]] |
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In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman [[Will Stephens]] in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{ |
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Cite news |
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|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html |
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|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]'' |
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|author=Wagenseil, Paul |
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|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots |
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|date=June 30, 2005 |
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}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. May 31, 2005.</ref> 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.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. July 13, 2006.</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. July 11, 2006.</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. April 27, 2005.</ref> |
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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.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 31, 2006.</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August 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 [[felony|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.<ref name="stephens2">{{ |
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Cite news |
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|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm |
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|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]'' |
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|author=Barron, Sam |
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|title=Ball Fires at Will |
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|date=August 23, 2006 |
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}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] [[Ken Harper]].<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved February 28, 2007.</ref> |
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On September 12, 2006, in the [[Republican Party (United States)|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.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. September 13, 2006.</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{ |
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Cite news |
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|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly |
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|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]'' |
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|title=Primary 2006 |
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|date=September 2006 |
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}}</ref> 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]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. August 10, 2006.</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. August 30, 2006.</ref> 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.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. May 25, 2006.</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news |
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|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04 |
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|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]'' |
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|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race |
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|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. March 8, 2006.</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. June 29, 2006.</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/> |
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[[Image:gregball14.jpg|thumb|right|200px|At a 2006 ''United Taxpayers of Yorktown'' event with Assembly Minority [[Jim Tedisco]], candidate Greg Ball discusses school tax reform.<ref name="schooltaxforum"/>]]Due to New York's [[electoral fusion]] system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the [[Conservative Party of New York|Conservative]] and [[Independence Party of New York|Independence]] lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. December 10, 2006.</ref> 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, New York|Queens]], in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news |
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|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html |
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|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]'' |
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|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun |
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|date=September 14, 2006}}</ref> 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.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. October 27, 2006.</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. November 2, 2006.</ref> |
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Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. November 22, 2006.</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]'', [[Fraternal Order of Police]], [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]] [[Sheriff]] [[Donald B. Smith]] and [[Duchess County, New York|Duchess County]] [[Sheriff]] Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. October 30, 2006.</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. October 21, 2006.</ref> Inside of the district, Ball received more votes then any other candidate, including candidates running for Governor, Attorney General, Senate, Congress, and State Senate.<ref name="election1"/> 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 winner [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. December 30, 2006.</ref> |
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<table> |
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<tr> |
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<td>{{Listen|filename=Greg_Ball_on_Fair_Game_with_Faith_Salie.ogg|title=Ball on the air|description=Greg Ball's appearance on ''[[Fair Game (radio)|Fair Game with Faith Salie]]''.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/28/ball-on-the-air/ Ball on the air]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. February 28, 2007.</ref>|format=[[Ogg]]}} |
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</td> |
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<td>{{Listen|filename=Greg_Ball_Assembly_Open_Door.ogg|title=Assembly Open Door|description=An excerpt from Greg Ball's weekly "Open Door" radio show, discussing 287(g) legislation.<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/multimedia.aspx Leadership matters]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved May 20, 2008.</ref>|format=[[Ogg]]}} |
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</td> |
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<td>{{Listen|filename=Greg_Ball_interview_with_Todd_Rundgren.ogg|title=Interview with Greg Ball|description=A ''[[List of newspapers in New York|North County News]]'' interview with Greg Ball.<ref>Rundgren, Todd. "[http://blog.northcountynews.com/ncnblog/?p=26 Greg Ball interview]". ''[http://ncnlocal.com North County News]''. December 26, 2006.</ref>|format=[[Ogg]]}} |
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</td> |
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</tr> |
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</table> |
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====Courage Cup Fundraising Controversy==== |
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[[Image:gregball7.jpg|thumb|310px|right|Assemblyman Ball and supporters at his 2008 campaign kickoff in Yorktown, New York.<ref name="news12"/><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/March08/17/Ball_rerun-17Mar08.html Ball seeks another Assembly term]". ''[http://midhudsonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. March 17, 2008.</ref>]] |
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As the Washington Post would report in 2007, a significant portion of Ball's funds for his 2006 assembly race were raised through a charity polo match in Washington, D.C. called "the Courage Cup" in 2005. 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|Philadelphia]], [[Pennsylvania]] based [[Work to Ride]] program.<ref name="polo2">"[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/12/polo-anyone/ Assemblyman Ball trading shots in D.C. charity polo event debate]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. February 2, 2007</ref> |
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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.<ref>"[http://web.archive.org/web/20060502193810/http://couragecup.org/about-content.htm About the event]". ''[http://couragecup.org Courage Cup]''. Retrieved March 6, 2008.</ref> Ball founded the charity in 2004, prior to his run for office.<ref>"Assemblyman defends aid from fundraiser". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. June 13, 2007.</ref> 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.<ref name="polo1">Argetsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/05/AR2007020501739.html Courage Cup Organizers Cross Polo Mallets]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C03. February 6, 2007.</ref> |
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A ''[[Washington Post]]'' article from June 2007 reported that one of the event directors offered tickets at difference price level with proceeds going to a [[Political Action Committee]] named Citizens United for Ethical Growth (CUEG), which Ball operated as President in Fall of 2004.<ref name="art1"/> Ball's campaign stated it had nothing to do with the fund raising and the destination of profits from the event were clearly stated in one section of an online contribution form.<ref name="polo2"/> |
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Several Courage Cup attendees told the Post that what they were unaware their contributions would be used for political purposes.<ref name="art1">Argetsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/11/AR2007061102424_pf.html Courage Cup: Ponying Up For Whose Charity?]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C01. June 12, 2007.</ref> Under a new President, CUEG transferred $18,000 into Assemblyman Ball's campaign fund in 2006, which included $610.09 raised from the 2004 Courage Cup event.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us:8080/reports/rwservlet?cmdkey=efs_sch_report+p_filer_id=A18143+p_e_year=2004+p_freport_id=J+p_transaction_code=A Citizens United for Ethical Growth. January 2004 Periodic Report]". ''[[New York State Board of Elections]]''. Retrieved June 10, 2008.</ref> The Assemblyman later provided refunds to two of the seven contributors who gave money to CUEG through the courage cup.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us:8080/reports/rwservlet?cmdkey=efs_sch_report+p_filer_id=A18887+p_e_year=2008+p_freport_id=J+p_transaction_code=M New Yorkers on the Ball. January 2008 Periodic Report]". ''[[New York State Board of Elections]]''. Retrieved June 10, 2008.</ref> |
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===New York State Assembly (2007 – )=== |
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[[Image:gregball3.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Former Active Duty Air Force Captain Gregory R. Ball participates in the 2007 Veterans Day parade of {{dn|Pawling, NY}} carrying the flag of the [[POW-MIA]].<ref name="officialbio"/>]]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."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. April 21, 2007.</ref> He was sworn into office on January 8, 2007.<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. January 8, 2007.</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. January 3, 2007.</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. February 8, 2007.</ref><ref>{{cite episode |
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| title = Joint Legislative Session |
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| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA |
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| series = [[New York State Assembly]] |
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| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV] |
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| airdate = 2007-02-07 |
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}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. March 6, 2007.</ref> 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 of New York|Governor]] [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM 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.</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. February 8, 2007.</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. February 9, 2007.</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. January 17, 2007.</ref> |
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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.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. February 10, 2007.</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. February 8, 2007.</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan [[New York University]] [[New York University School of Law|School of Law's]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]], which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf 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.</ref> |
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====State and local tax reform==== |
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[[Image:gregball4.jpg|thumb|256px|right|Assemblyman Ball participated in [[Greasestock]], an event in [[Yorktown, NY]] to encourage the use of renewable energy sources.<ref name="greenstock">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20080212/ Fuel Prices Are Out of Control]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. February 12, 2008. Retrieved on February 25, 2008.</ref>]]Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an [[Inflation-indexed bond|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.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. January 10, 2008.</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. April 6, 2007.</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. June 18, 2007.</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. May 30, 2007.</ref><ref>Haavie, Erikah. "[http://www.midhudsoncentral.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19514057&BRD=1706&PAG=461&dept_id=72001&rfi=6 Board encourages Assembly to focus on school tax relief]". ''[[The Register-Herald]]''. April 24, 2008.</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the [[excise tax|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.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. January 25, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on March 23, 2008.</ref> He is also in favor of [[Tax reform|school tax reform]], and has called New York State's School Tax Relief (STAR) Program a "band-aid".<ref name="pawl410">Macura, Susan. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19464957&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Ball hosts Pawling Town Hall meeting]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com/ Pawling News Chronicle]''. April 10, 2008.</ref> Governor [[David Paterson]] also hinted that he feels the STAR program has been ineffective in an April 2008 interview with [[WGDJ|WGDJ Talk 1300]],<ref>Spector, Joseph. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/04/21/paterson-maybe-star-should-be-cut/ Paterson: Maybe STAR should be cut]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 21, 2008.</ref> and said the program may be cut or changed in the future.<ref>"[http://www2.nysun.com/article/74381 David Paterson, Neocon?]". ''[[New York Sun]]''. April 9, 2008.</ref><ref>Spector, Joseph. "[http://www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080422/NEWS01/804220348/1006 Paterson may take aim at STAR rebates]". ''[[Press & Sun-Bulletin]]''. April 22, 2008.</ref> |
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He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases,<ref>Wieland, James. "[http://yonkersinsider.wordpress.com/2007/06/27/news-from-assemblyman-ball-4/ News from Assemblyman Ball]". ''[http://yonkersinsider.wordpress.com Yonkers Insider]''. June 27, 2007.</ref> 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.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. June 21, 2007.</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to [[Albany, New York|Albany]] during the 2007 county "budget crisis",<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. April 24, 2007.</ref> 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.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. May 2, 2007.</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. May 9, 2007.</ref> |
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Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending|pork]]" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. April 4, 2007.</ref> Another state legislator, [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. July 25, 2007.</ref> Ball later joined with a [[Westchester County Board of Legislators|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.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. September 12, 2007.</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 7, 2007.</ref> Hundreds of residents of Putnam County demonstrated outside Bondi's office in opposition to the tax increase, which was defeated.<ref>Brenner, Elsa. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/07/realestate/07wczo.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss Taxes climb and tempers flare]". ''[[New York Times]]''. October 7, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://www.putnamcountyny.com/finance/file/budget12.pdf Budget 2008]". ''[[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]] [http://www.putnamcountyny.com/finance/ Finance Department]''. Retrieved April 23, 2008.</ref> |
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[[Image:gregball13.jpg|thumb|right|180px|The Assemblyman discussing school tax reform at an event in [[Mahopac, NY]].<ref name="schooltaxforum">Kemnitz, Aaron. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18468329&BRD=1705&PAG=461&dept_id=71853&rfi=6 School tax reform discussed in forum]". ''[http://millbrookroundtable.com Millbrook Roundtable]''. June 15, 2007.</ref>]]Ball pledged to deliver an [[Empire Zone]] to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. February 8, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. February 14, 2008.</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the [[American Red Cross]].<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. February 13, 2008.</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. October 2007.</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. February 6, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com/my_weblog/files/WTT-2-44-Web.pdf Ball Announces Grants for Town Of Somers]". ''[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com Westchester Times Tribune]''. July 7, 2007.</ref> |
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====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation==== |
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{{mainarticle|Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal}} |
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Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform,<ref>"[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com/my_weblog/files/wttvol.2%20Issue24-Web.pdf Ball and Spitzer Standing Up for Reform]". ''[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com Westchester Times Tribune]''. February 15, 2007.</ref> 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]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]] under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink= |
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|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= March 10, 2008 |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref> |
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{{Quotation|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<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. March 11, 2008.</ref>}} |
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The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text"> |
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{{cite journal |
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| author=Eliot Spitzer |
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| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times |
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| date=March 12, 2008 |
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| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation |
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| accessdate= 2008-03-12 |
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}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], David Paterson.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany |
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| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> 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."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'> |
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{{cite news |
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|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story |
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|work= [[Newsday]] |
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|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda |
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|first= Melissa |
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|last= Mansfield |
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|date= 2008-03-12 |
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|accessdate=2008-03-12 |
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}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. March 18, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Chan, Sewell and Hakim, Danny. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/23/nyregion/23bruno.html?_r=1&n=Top/Reference/Times%20Topics/People/B/Bruno,%20Joseph%20L.&oref=slogin Labor Unions Stand by Bruno as Details of Inquiry Emerge]". ''[[New York Times]]''. December 23, 2006.</ref> |
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====Free college tuition for veterans==== |
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[[Image:gregball8.jpg|thumb|239px|right|Ball announces his legislation that created a tuition remission program for veterans was passed by the State Legislature as part of the 2008-09 State Budget in April 2008.<ref>"[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200880407001 Your legislators]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. April 13, 2008.</ref>]] |
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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.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> 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.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref><ref>Scott, Larry. "[http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/nf08/nfAPR08/nf041608-6.htm COMBAT VETS, GOING BACK TO VIETNAM, TO GET FREE TUITION AT N.Y. STATE UNIVERSITIES]". ''[http://www.vawatchdog.org VA Watchdog]''. April 16, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://westchester-1.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1086&Itemid=3027 Veterans To Receive Free Suny Tuition]". ''[http://westchester-1.com Westchester-1]''. April 15, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. March 1, 2007. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> Previously, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation offered tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on February 25, 2008.</ref> |
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Ball's legislation was picked up by the entire Assembly Republican Conference through their 2008 legislative package.<ref name="vetsbill1">"[http://ball4ny.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=162 Ball delivers for veterans]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. April 8, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. February 5, 2008.</ref> Governor Eliot Spitzer included the measure in his 2008 executive [[budget]] proposal, and the measure was kept funded in Governor David Paterson's version.<ref>"[http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0809/fy0809artVIIbills/ELFAConsBMwtoc.htm#partN Part N – Amend the Education Law in relation to tuition assistance for veterans], [http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0809/0809_budgetPublications.html#art7 Memorandum in Support Article VII Legislation, Education, Labor, and Family Assistance], [http://www.budget.state.ny.us/pubs/enacted/enacted.html Enacted Budget], [http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0809/ExecutiveBudget.html 2008-09 New York State Executive Budget]." ''[[New York State]] [http://www.budget.state.ny.us/index.html Division of the Budget]''. Retrieved April 11, 2008.</ref> |
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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.<ref>"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 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. [http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080501/OPINION/805010428/-1/SPORTS Letter to the Editor], May 1, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=166 Ball to announce enactment of landmark program to provide Veterans with free college tuition]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. April 10, 2008.</ref> 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."<ref>Neroulias, Nicole. "[http://veterans.lohudblogs.com/2008/04/10/new-york-budget-funds-veterans-tuition-assistance/ New York's new budget funds veterans tuition assistance]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 10, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Benjamin, Elizabeth. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2008/04/paterson-praises-assembly-gop.html Paterson Praises Assembly GOP, Gets Standing Os]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. April 14, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=26709 Ball Alarmed By "Funny Numbers" Budget]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. April 1, 2008.</ref> |
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====Committee work and legislation==== |
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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.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. September 11, 2007. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> |
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The Assemblyman strongly opposes [[firearm microstamping]], and participated in a discussion of the technology along side [[Second Amendment to the United States Constitution|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 2008.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/05/19/ball-at-firearms-demonstration/#more-4520 Ball at firearms demonstration]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.wten.com/Global/Story.asp?s=8346674 Microstamping Gun Cartridges]". ''[[WTEN]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> The gun industry representatives were asked to leave by the event's organizers.<ref>Merrill, Paul. "[http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=9078c28b-8379-41ce-861b-9591ca79cdb3 Gun bill jammed]". ''[[WXXA-TV|FOX 23 News]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> Ball had been invited by Assembly Democrat [[Michelle Schimel]] to the demonstration of microstamping technology.<ref>Senison, Heather. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/day_item.php?item=377 Microstamping demonstration turns into heated debated]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Karlin, Rick. "[http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=689896&category=CAPITOL&BCCode=HOME&newsdate=5/20/2008&TextPage=1 Bullet microstamping efforts appear stalled]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. May 20, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://capitalnews9.com/content/headlines/116414/microstamping-demonstration-held-in-albany/Default.aspx Microstamping demonstration held in Albany]". ''[[Capital News 9]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> [[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.<ref>Spector, Joseph. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/05/19/ball-video-on-gun-legislation/ Ball Video on Gun Legislation]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Waldron, Will. "[http://blogs.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/7459 Bullet debate]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> As of 2008, only [[California]] had passed similar legislation.<ref>Bernstein, Jenn. "[http://news10now.com/content/all_news/116414/microstamping-demonstration-held-in-albany/Default.aspx Microstamping demonstration held in Albany]". ''[[News 10 Now]]''. May 20, 2008.</ref> |
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[[Image:gregball12.jpg|thumb|175px|right|Ball at a regional conference to bring together families with autistic dependents, and professionals who work with [[autism]].<ref name="autism1">"[http://targetednews.com/pr_disp.php?pr_id=1372859 Assemblyman Ball hosts regional conference on autism]". ''[http://targetednews.com/agency_news.php?a_id=11014 Targeted News Service]''. January 18, 2008.</ref>]] |
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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.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. August 3, 2008.</ref> Ball worked closely with the [[Humane Society of the United States]] to pass legislation to outlaw [[puppy mill]]s, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref name="puppy1">Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. November 27, 2007.</ref> |
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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.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. December 13, 2007.</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 19, 2007.</ref> 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]].<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved March 10, 2008.</ref> |
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The Assemblyman has carried legislation to Albany for other constituents, including a measure in May 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]] [[Eosinophilia|disorders]], and removes the $2,500 annual caps imposed by insurance plans that pay for formula.<ref>Elan, Susan. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008805180374 'Hannah's Law' would help allergic child]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> |
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[[Image:gregball11.jpg|thumb|204px|right|Assemblyman Ball presents state grants to the Yorktown Historical Society and students commemorating the American Revolution from French Hill School in [[Yorktown, NY]].<ref>"[http://yonkerstribune.typepad.com/yonkers_tribune/files/WTT-3-90-Web.pdf Ball joins Yorktown's French Hill commemorative celebration]". ''[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com Westchester Times Tribune]''. June 5, 2008.</ref><ref>Calidonna, Maria. "[http://ncnlocal.com/default.asp Students unveil living history project]". ''[http://ncnlocal.com North County News]''. June 4, 2008.</ref>]]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 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."<ref name="autism1"/> Ball has cosponsored several bipartisan bills that impact New York’s children with autism and their families.<ref name="autism2">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20080116/ Ball to host regional conference on autism]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved June 4, 2008.</ref> 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".<ref name="autism1"/> |
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He has been involved in the fight to keep [[Pepsi Bottling Group]] in his district, after the company, which is [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County's]] second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|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.</ref><ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. January 23, 2008.</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. February 13, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref name="pepsi1"/> |
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====Immigration issues==== |
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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.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. August 12, 2007.</ref> The ''[[New York Sun]]'' reported that Ball defines himself as a moderate on the immigration issue.<ref>Garland, Sarah. "[http://www.nysun.com/new-york/immigration-foes-will-search-for-common-ground/78948/ Immigration Foes Will Search for Common Ground at Conference]". ''[[New York Sun]]''. May 30, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref name="teddyroosevelt"/> 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.<ref>"[http://www.fairus.org/site/DocServer/NYCosts.pdf?docID=1161 Cost of Illegal Immigration to New Yorkers]". ''[[Federation for American Immigration Reform|FAIR]]''. Retrieved April 24, 2008.</ref><ref>According to [[Federation for American Immigration Reform|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.</ref> Ball claims that the economy penalizes legal immigrants, unfairly impacts law abiding business owners, and exploits illegal laborers.<ref name="teddyroosevelt"/> |
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[[Image:gregball2.jpg|thumb|256px|right|Assemblyman Ball delivering a speech from the floor of the Assembly Chamber in October 2007.<ref name="gregballtruereformer"/>]]He was joined by former [[Immigration and Naturalization Service]] agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrants in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. June 26, 2007.</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October 2007, he strongly criticized [[Eliot Spitzer drivers license controversy|Governor Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants]].<ref>Chase, Kelly A. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2691&searchstr=greg%20ball DMV debate is focus of special session Cuomo set to defend state against legal challenges to new policy]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. October 29, 2007.</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. October 1, 2007.</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. October 3, 2007.</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. March 2, 2007.</ref> 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.<ref name="pawl410"/><ref>"[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com/my_weblog/files/WTT-2-57-Web.pdf Assembly GOP to Sue Governor and Dept. of Motor Vehicles]". ''[http://westchestertimestribune.typepad.com Westchester Times Tribune]''. October 4, 2007.</ref> |
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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 [[Internal Revenue Service|IRS]] [[Tax forms in the United States#1099 series|tax form 1099]] misclassification.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080523/NEWS10/80523010 Debate continues on how to police illegal immigrants]". ''[[Press & Sun-Bulletin]]''. May 23, 2008.</ref><ref>Rojas, Marcela. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/NEWS04/804110389/-1/newsfront Proposed law bars Southeast contractors from hiring illegals]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 11, 2008.</ref><ref>Anderson, Stacy A. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080420/NEWS01/804200358/-1/SPORTS New bill regarding criminal illegal immigrants receives mixed response]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 20, 2008.</ref><ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19510186&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball's bill on illegal immigration divides public]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. April 24, 2008.</ref><ref>Rae, Lea. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/04/16/greg-ball-to-announce-enforcement-bill/ Greg Ball to announce enforcement bill]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 16, 2008.</ref> 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."<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080525/NEWS01/805250357/1002/NEWS Lawmakers want local police to help regulate illegal immigrants]". ''[[Democrat and Chronicle]]''. May 25, 2008.</ref> |
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In February 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.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. February 13, 2008.</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode |
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| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto |
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| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE |
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| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]] |
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| network = ''[[Fox News]]'' |
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| airdate = 2008-01-01 |
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}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, created in 1996 under the [[Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996|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.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. February 24, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. February 21, 2008.</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. December 16, 2007.</ref> Ball held another regional summit in April 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. February 10, 2008.</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080419/NEWS01/804190344/1020/NEWS04 Ball immigration bill opposed by state correction officials]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 19, 2008.</ref> He emphasized that deporting nonviolent offenders before their sentence was up would save the state money.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008804180397 Ball seeks to deport illegal immigrants convicted of crimes]". ''[[Journal News]]''. April 18, 2008.</ref> |
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[[Image:gregball6.jpg|thumb|211px|right|Former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer|Spitzer]] and Assemblyman Ball disagreed on a number of issues, but worked together on several reform packages.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1729 Ball pledges Albany reform]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. December 27, 2006.</ref><ref>"1 in GOP welcomes Spitzer reforms". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. March 14, 2007.</ref>]]He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> 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.<ref name="ice1"/> 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."<ref name="summit"/> The Assemblyman introduced a bill on behalf of [[September 11, 2001 attacks|9/11 Families for a Secure America]] in April 2008 that mandates implementation of the 287(g) program statewide.<ref>Gadiel, Peter. "[http://www.familysecuritymatters.org/homeland.php?id=1387348 NY State Introduces Bill To Ban Sanctuary Cities & Require Enforcement Of Immigration]". ''[http://familysecuritymatters.org Family Security Matters]''. April 24, 2008.</ref> |
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Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. April 25, 2007.</ref> His campaign headquarters in {{dn|Pawling, New York}} may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. November 2, 2006.</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. November 1, 2006.</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign literature was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. November 11, 2007.</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 13, 2007.</ref> 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.<ref>"[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved March 23, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on February 24, 2008.</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. February 14, 2008.</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in [[Danbury, Connecticut|Danbury]], [[Connecticut]] sponsored by United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. December 31, 2007.</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. April 30, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved March 23, 2008.</ref> |
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In June 2008, Ball's campaign sent out an e-mail piece that quoted from a [[Government Accountability Office]] study on illegal aliens and crime, which alleged that 55,322 illegal alien respondents had been arrested a total of 459,614 times. A local journalist noted that the study linked in the e-mail pertained to prison inmates, and stated that 68% of the 46,023 convictions were for immigration-related crimes, followed by 21% for drug-related crimes and 11% for other offenses.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/06/05/fact-check-greg-balls-statistics-on-illegal-aliens-and-crime/ Fact Check Greg Ball's Statistics on Illegal Aliens and Crime]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. June 5, 2008.</ref> |
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====Energy and conservation==== |
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[[Image:gregball20.jpg|255px|thumb|right|Ball warms up the crowd his "Sinatra Soiree" in May 2008, a fundraiser hosted by WABC radio's [[Curtis Sliwa]] and a Frank Sinatra Impersonator, at Traveler's Rest in [[Kitchawan, NY]].<ref>Blainn, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/05/06/sliwa-to-lend-support-for-greg-ball/ Sliwa to lend support for Greg Ball]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 6, 2008.</ref>]] |
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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".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. March 6, 2008.</ref> 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.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. April 20, 2007.</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. October 19, 2007.</ref> |
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{{cquote|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.|30px|25px|Assemblyman Greg Ball<ref name="greenstock"/>}} |
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The Assemblyman supported [[Greasestock]], an yearly event held in Yorktown to showcase clean [[renewable energy]].<ref>"[http://www.greasestock.org/ Greasestock 2008]". ''[http://greasestock.org Greasestock]''. Retrieved May 20, 2008.</ref><ref>Max, Josh. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/autos/2008/05/13/2008-05-13_gasguzzlers_become_veggie_delights_at_gr.html Gas-guzzlers become veggie delights at Greasestock in Yorktown Heights]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. May 13, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.greasestock.org/images/GreasestockMay08.jpg Greasestock 2008: Alternative Fuel, Fun and French Fries]". ''[http://www.naturalawakeningsmag.com/ Natural Awakenings]''. May 2008.</ref> The event was founded in 2003 by individuals interested in [[Vegetable oil used as fuel|vegetable powered]] [[Alternative fuel vehicle|vehicles]].<ref>Norman, Jim. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/13/automobiles/13GREASE.html?_r=1&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&oref=slogin Where There’s Never an Oil Shortage]". ''[[New York Times]]''. May 13, 2007.</ref> The event now includes a number of [[alternative fuel]] exhibits, showcasing new [[green technology|green technologies]] for vehicles and other applications.<ref>Tillman, Adriane. "[http://northcountynews.com/news/ncn_news1.asp Greasestock Festival returns, bigger and better]". May 14, 2008.</ref> |
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===2008 election=== |
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{{seealso|New York's 99th assembly district#2008 election}} |
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[[Image:gregball-volunteers.jpg|206px|thumb|right|At his Pawling, New York campaign headquarters, Assemblyman Ball and campaign volunteers gear up for his reelection bid in May 2008.<ref>"[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall/TheBallExpressVolunteerNightAtCampaignOffice The Ball Express: Volunteer Night at Campaign Office]". ''[http://ball4ny.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. May 12, 2008.</ref>]]Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 4, 2007.</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 31, 2007.</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 17, 2007.</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. December 31, 2007.</ref> 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."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. January 1, 2008.</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. December 27, 2007.</ref> |
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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]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on March 16, 2008.</ref><ref>{{cite episode |
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| title = Ball launches re-election |
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| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv |
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| series = Evening edition |
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| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor |
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| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]'' |
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| station = N12WC |
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| airdate = 2008-03-16 |
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}}</ref> 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.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York State Board of Elections]]''. January 2008.</ref> 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."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. March 16, 2008.</ref> |
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In early May 2008, [[John Degnan]], the former Mayor of [[Brewster, New York]], announced he would be mounting a challenge to the freshman Assemblyman.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080512/NEWS01/805120319/1006 Ex-mayor challenges 99th's Ball]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. May 12, 2008.</ref> The [[New York State Republican Committee|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."<ref>"[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/05/19/ball-has-a-friend-in-racc/ RACC’S GOT GREG BALL’S BACK]". ''[[New York State]] [http://nyracc.org/index2.aspx Republican Assembly Campaign Committee]''. May 19, 2008.</ref><ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/05/19/ball-has-a-friend-in-racc/ Ball has a friend in RACC]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. May 19, 2008.</ref> |
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In the September 9th, 2008 primary, Ball was overwhelmingly reelected by a 3 to 1 margin amongst Republicans.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080911/NEWS01/809110420&s=d&page=1#pluckcomments Ball primary win upends attacks, Leibell]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 11, 2008.</ref><ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20114036&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball by a landslide]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>Moser, Anna Lillian. "[http://ncnlocal.com/news/ncn_news1.asp Ball crushes Degnan]". ''[http://northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 11], 2008.</ref><ref>Risinit, Michael and Rojas, Marcela. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080909/NEWS01/809090445 GOP voters overwhelmingly go with Ball over Degnan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 9, 2008.</ref> He will face Degnan, who has the Democratic nomination, in the general election.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809100383 Ball rolls over Degnan easily]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20113987&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 It wasn't event close: Ball wins big in primary]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News Chronicle]''. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=217389 Ball beats Degnan easily, but tensions persist]". [[News 12 Networks]]. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/September08/10/Ball_prim-10Sep08.html Ball easily survives Republican primary challenge]". ''[http://midhudsonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>Rojas, Marcela. "[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080910/NEWS01/809100332 Ball defeats Degnan by 3-to-1 margin]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. September 10, 2008.</ref><ref>"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=217291# |
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Ball defeats Degnan, both live to fight another day]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. September 9, 2008.</ref> |
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====Complaints by opponent==== |
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On July 9, The Westchester Fair Campaign Practices Committee, a group of volunteer members of the League of Women Voters, met to review a mailer distributed by the Ball campaign following complaints by his opponent. The committee claimed that 10 of 12 claims submitted were "unfair" statements made in campaign literature published in newspapers and issued as a mailer in June about his opponent, [[John Degnan]].<ref name="unfairlwvcomittee">Chase, Kelly, "[http://www.northcountynews.com/news/ncn_news5.asp Committee says some of Ball's claims unfair]". ''North County News.'' July 17, 2008.</ref><ref name="Risnit, Michael 2008">Risnit, Michael. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008807090374 Fairness committee reviews Ball mailer]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. July 9, 2008.</ref><ref name="Risnit, Michael 2008"/> Following the ruling, Ball contended that the committee was biased, since it contained one registered Republican, one Independent, and eight Democrats, and has made similar rulings against other Repbulicans in the past.<ref name="unfairlwvcomittee"/>. |
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====T.P.O. controversy==== |
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On August 26, 2008, a local newspaper known as ''The Putnam Times'' published court documents surrounding the break up between Ball and a Washington, D.C. woman in 2003. Ball blamed his Democratic challenger John Degnan for hiring private investigators for the newspaper article.<ref>"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=216472 Westchester pol cries foul at alleged smear campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. August 26, 2008.</ref> Ball stated both he and the woman both filed for orders of protection following the end of their relationship. In November of 2003, both Ball and the woman asked the court to dismiss their complaints against each other, which was done without determining whether what they claimed in their complaints was true, or just two people "venting after the messy breakup of a romantic relationship."Rojas, Marcela.<ref>"[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080826/NEWS01/80826038 Ball denies violating court order]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. August 26, 2008.</ref> Ball told ''The Daily News'' that "It was just a heartfelt breakup where both parties jointly requested a 'cooling off' period, and the entire matter was mutually dismissed. My life is an open book, and always has been."<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/news/2008/08/26/2008-08-26_upstate_assemblyman_greg_ball_accused_of.html]." ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. August 26, 2008.</ref> |
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While ''The Putnam Times'', a local partisan paper funded by Ball's opponents, incorrectly reported that Ball violated the order of protection by following the woman to Israel on July 20th, ''News Channel 12'', a regional network, pointed out that order of protection was filed six days earlier on July 14th, and court records state Ball traveled to Israel on June 20th.<ref>''News 12'' reported that "In addition, Ball wants the FBI to step up an investigation of allegations he made last year, accusing Leibell of publishing a newspaper article, which incorrectly claimed Ball violated an order of protection brought by a former girlfriend after they broke up.</ref><ref>[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=216958 WC pol levels new charges against opponent]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. September 3, 2008.</ref> ''The Poughkeepsie Journal'' also later pointed out that there was never a criminal restraining order, and the documents printed by the ''Times'' was actually a [[Injunction|temporary order of protection]], which anyone can request.<ref name="pj1"/> |
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====Smear campaign allegations==== |
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Following the revelations that Ball's ex-girlfriend filed for an order of protection against him in 2003, on September 3, 2008 the ''Journal News'' reported that Evelyn Perrault, former member of Ball's staff had accused him of sexually harassing her in a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver detailing the incident.<ref>"[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809030427 Former staff member says Ball sexually harassed her]". ''The Journal News.'' September 3, 2008.</ref> Perrault's accusations were later found to be fabrications and Ball was exonerated.<ref>Gormley, Michael. "[http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newyork/ny-bc-ny--albanyethics1023oct23,0,2221599.story NY Assembly committee: No sex harassment by Ball]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[October 23]], [[2008]].</ref> |
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Initially, ''News 12'' analyst Mike Edelman called the report "not credible," and many questioned the timing of the complaint, as the former staff member waited a year to write the letter until a few days before the primary election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809070344 Attacks, accusations build in primary battle]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 7, 2008.</ref>.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/09/04/more-on-the-sex-harrassment-accusation-in-the-99th/ More on the sex harassment accusation in the 99th]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 4, 2008.</ref> The previous day, Ball had released e-mails from from his former Chief of Staff, which stated that Perreault was ready to "go forward with a lawsuit and 'embellish' some of the details," calling the letter to Silver into question.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008809040447 Ball alleges smear, denies harassment.]" ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 4, 2008.</ref> Ball said the letter was part of a "smear campaign", and that the ex-Chief of Staff was a "mole" for State Senator Vincent Leibell, who was backing his primary opponent. Ball released a taped phone conversation between the ex-Chief of Staff and a local political candidate, where his former deputy stated he was working for "the senate" to "neuter" Ball.<ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080903/NEWS01/809030427/-1/SPORTS Former staff member says Ball sexually harassed her]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. September 3, 2008.</ref> Although at first, the ex-Chief of Staff denied working for the senate to ''The Journal News'', the next day, he admitted it in another article, but Senator Leibell denied any conspiracy.<ref name="pj1">Risinit, Michael. "[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080907/NEWS01/809070341/1001/news GOP primary candidates locked in bitter spat]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. September 7, 2008.</ref> |
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The Assembly Ethics committee met in October 2008, reaching a ‘not guilty’ verdict<ref>"(10/24/08) YORKTOWN - The Assembly Ethics Committee reached a ‘not guilty’ verdict in the case of Assemblyman Greg Ball (R), who was accused of sexually harassing a former staffer."&mdash"''[http://news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=219773 News 12]''. Retrieved [[October 25]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Michael. "[http://www.lohud.com/article/2008810240377 No evidence sexual harassment by Ball, Silver says]". ''[[Journal News]]''. [[October 24]], [[2008]].</ref> and ruling that no harassment ever occurred, and unanimously voted to throw out the frivolous charges against Assemblyman Ball.<ref>http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20081023/NEWS12/81023030</ref><ref>"[http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20081024/NEWS/810240332/1006/NEWS11 Ball did not harass staffer, panel decides]". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Karlin, Rick. "[http://blogs.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/9063 Ball cleared of harassment charges]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[October 23]], [[2008]].</ref> The accuser, the 60-year-old Perrault, had been the target of numerous sexual harassment allegations at a prior job, where she was a supervisor.<ref>Spector, Joseph. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080925/NEWS01/809250487/1019/NEWS03 Ball calls for quick decision in possible ethics probe]". ''[[Journal News]]''. [[September 25]], [[2008]].</ref> <ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/October08/24/Ball_clear-24Oct08.html Ball cleared of sexual harassment charges]". ''[http://midhudsonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[October 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Overall, Perrault had settled four lawsuits for an undisclosed sum, at least three of which accused her of sexual harassment.<ref>Spector, Joseph. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/10/23/ball-cleared-in-sexual-harassment-case/ Ball Cleared In Sexual Harassment Case]". ''[[Journal News]]''. [[October 23]], [[2008]].</ref> |
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Ball contended the woman's allegations were part of the [[smear campaign]] organized by his opponent, Degnan, who denied the claim, saying he had never met Perrault.<ref>"[http://yonkerstribune.typepad.com/yonkers_tribune/2008/10/assembly-ethics.html Assembly Ethics Committee Drops Unsubstantiated Charges Against Greg Ball]". ''[http://yonkerstribune.com Yonkers Tribune]''. [[October 23]], [[2008]].</ref> However, Degnan's campaign manager, the former Ball Chief-of-staff, sent the emails stating "Perrault is ready to go forward with a lawsuit and 'embellish some of the details" which seemed to counter this claim.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2008/10/politics-without-scandal-in-new-york-state.html?cid=136434397#comments Politics Without Scandal In New York State: Greg Ball Cleared]". ''[http://newscopy.com Newscopy]''. [[October 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Ironically, the day after Ball was exonerated, [[Attack ad|Degnan campaign mailers]] were sent repeating the erroneous sexual harassment charge after it had been discredited. |
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<ref name="news12a">Goff, John. "[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=219773 Westchester pol cleared of sexual misconduct charges]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[October 24]], [[2008]].</ref> After Ball was easily reelected in the September primary, Degnan had told ''News 12'' he would consider toning down his [[Negative campaigning|negative campaign]]. |
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===Electoral history=== |
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{{Election box begin no party |
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| title=[[New York State Assembly]], [[New York's 99th assembly district|99th district]], 2008 – [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] [[Primary election|Primary]]<ref>[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/Elections/2008/Primary/2008PrimaryReturns.pdf 2008 Primary returns]. ''[[New York State Board of Elections]]''. Retrieved October 2008.</ref><ref>In the Independence Primary, Ball received 239 votes (80.3%), Degnan received 59 votes (19.7%)</ref> |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate no party with winner |
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| winner = ✓ |
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|candidate = Greg Ball (I) |
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|votes = 5,113 |
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|percentage = 73.1% |
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|change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate no party with winner |
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| winner = |
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|candidate = John Degnan |
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|votes = 1,921 |
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|percentage = 26.9% |
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|change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box turnout no party |
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| votes = |
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| percentage = |
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}} |
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{{Election box end}} |
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{{Election box begin | title=[[New York State Assembly]], [[New York's 99th assembly district|99th district]], 2006 – [[General Election]]<ref name="election1">"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/elections/2006/general/2006_assem.pdf NYS Board of Elections - Assembly - Vote - Nov. 7, 2006]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on February 22, 2008.</ref>}} |
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{{Election box candidate with party link| |
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|party = Republican Party (US) |
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|candidate = Greg Ball |
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|votes = 20,956 |
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|percentage = 50.8% |
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|change = Republican '''hold''' |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate with party link| |
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|party = Democratic Party (US) |
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|candidate = Ken Harper |
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|votes = 17,155 |
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|percentage = 41.4% |
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|change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate | |
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|party = Independence, Conservative |
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|candidate = Willis Stephens, Jr. (I) |
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|votes = 3,228 |
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|percentage = 7.8% |
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|change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box end}} |
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{{Election box begin no party |
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| title=[[New York State Assembly]], [[New York's 99th assembly district|99th district]], 2006 – [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] [[Primary election|Primary]]<ref name="primary1">"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/elections/2006/Primary/2006PrimaryAD.pdf September 12, 2006 Primary Vote Assembly Districts]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on February 22, 2008.</ref> |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate no party with winner |
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| winner = ✓ |
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|candidate = Greg Ball |
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|votes = 5,165 |
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|percentage = 70.4% |
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|change = Challenger '''pickup''' |
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}} |
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{{Election box candidate no party with winner |
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| winner = |
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|candidate = Willis Stephens, Jr. (I) |
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|votes = 2,176 |
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|percentage = 29.6% |
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|change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box turnout no party |
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| votes = 7,341 |
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| percentage = |
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| change = |
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}} |
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{{Election box end}} |
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==Notes== |
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{{reflist|3}} |
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==External links== |
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{{wikiquote}}{{commons}} |
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*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York] |
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*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website] |
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*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball] |
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*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball] |
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*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications] |
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*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring practices.] |
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*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball] |
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*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball] |
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{{start box}} |
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{{incumbent box|title=[[New York's 99th assembly district|New York State Assembly<br/>99th District]]|before=[[Will Stephens|Willis Stephens, Jr.]]|start=2007| }} |
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{{end box}} |
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<!-- Metadata: see [[Wikipedia:Persondata]] --> |
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{{Persondata |
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|NAME = Ball, Greg |
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|ALTERNATIVE NAMES = Ball, Gregory R. |
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|SHORT DESCRIPTION = Politician |
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|DATE OF BIRTH = September 16, 1977 |
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|PLACE OF BIRTH = {{dn|Pawling, New York}} |
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|DATE OF DEATH = |
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|PLACE OF DEATH = |
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}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}} |
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[[Category:Members of the New York Assembly]] |
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[[Category:1977 births]] |
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[[Category:Living people]] |
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[[Category:United States Air Force Academy graduates]] |
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[[Category:Putnam County, New York politicians]] |
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[[Category:Republican Party (United States) politicians]] |
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[[Category:New York Republicans]] |
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[[Category:United States Air Force officers]] |
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[[Category:Real estate and property developers]] |
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[[Category:Veterans' rights activists]] |
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[[Category:American business executives]] |
Revision as of 04:16, 8 March 2009
Greg Ball | |
---|---|
File:Ball - Version 2.jpg | |
Assemblyman, 99th District | |
In office 2007–incumbent | |
Preceded by | Willis Stephens, Jr. |
Personal details | |
Born | 200px September 16, 1977 Pawling, New York [disambiguation needed] |
Died | 200px |
Resting place | 200px |
Political party | Republican |
Parent |
|
Residence(s) | Carmel, New York |
Occupation | Businessman Air Force Officer Legislator |
Website | www.AssemblymanBall.com |
Military service | |
Branch/service | United States Air Force |
Years of service | 2001– |
Rank | Captain |
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. He serves as the ranking member on the Veterans' 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.
Gregory 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 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 called himself "Albany’s loudest advocate for reform."[5]
Early career and background
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ec/Gregball10.jpg/220px-Gregball10.jpg)
Ball was born in Pawling [disambiguation needed], 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 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 Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.[11][12]
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 presented $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]
Business career
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/65/Gregball9.jpg/255px-Gregball9.jpg)
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]
Political career
2006 election
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4a/Gregball1.jpg/280px-Gregball1.jpg)
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 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]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3b/Gregball14.jpg/200px-Gregball14.jpg)
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 winner John Hall the day after the election.[66]
Courage Cup Fundraising Controversy
As the Washington Post would report in 2007, a significant portion of Ball's funds for his 2006 assembly race were raised through a charity polo match in Washington, D.C. called "the Courage Cup" in 2005. 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.[72]
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.[73] Ball founded the charity in 2004, prior to his run for office.[74] 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.[75]
A Washington Post article from June 2007 reported that one of the event directors offered tickets at difference price level with proceeds going to a Political Action Committee named Citizens United for Ethical Growth (CUEG), which Ball operated as President in Fall of 2004.[76] Ball's campaign stated it had nothing to do with the fund raising and the destination of profits from the event were clearly stated in one section of an online contribution form.[72]
Several Courage Cup attendees told the Post that what they were unaware their contributions would be used for political purposes.[76] Under a new President, CUEG transferred $18,000 into Assemblyman Ball's campaign fund in 2006, which included $610.09 raised from the 2004 Courage Cup event.[77] The Assemblyman later provided refunds to two of the seven contributors who gave money to CUEG through the courage cup.[78]
New York State Assembly (2007 – )
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/Gregball3.jpg/300px-Gregball3.jpg)
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."[79][80] He was sworn into office on January 8, 2007.[81][82] The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.[83][84][85] 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.[86][87] The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.[88][89]
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][90] 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".[91]
State and local tax reform
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/24/Gregball4.jpg/256px-Gregball4.jpg)
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.[93][94][95][96][97] 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.[92][98][99] He is also in favor of school tax reform, and has called New York State's School Tax Relief (STAR) Program a "band-aid".[100] Governor David Paterson also hinted that he feels the STAR program has been ineffective in an April 2008 interview with WGDJ Talk 1300,[101] and said the program may be cut or changed in the future.[102][103]
He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases,[104] 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.[105] Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis",[106] 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.[107][108]
Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "pork" from the county budget.[106][109] Another state legislator, Sandra Galef, eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.[110] 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.[111][112] Hundreds of residents of Putnam County demonstrated outside Bondi's office in opposition to the tax increase, which was defeated.[113][114]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ad/Gregball13.jpg/180px-Gregball13.jpg)
Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February 2008.[115][116] 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.[117] Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.[118][119][120][121]
Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform,[122] 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[123] and met with a call girl under the alias "George Fox".[124][125]
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[126]
The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.[127] He was replaced by his Lieutenant Governor, David Paterson.[128] 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."[129][130] 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.[131]
Free college tuition for veterans
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/00/Gregball8.jpg/239px-Gregball8.jpg)
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.[119] 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.[133][134][135] 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.[136] State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.[137] Previously, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation offered tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.[138]
Ball's legislation was picked up by the entire Assembly Republican Conference through their 2008 legislative package.[139] 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.[140] Governor Eliot Spitzer included the measure in his 2008 executive budget proposal, and the measure was kept funded in Governor David Paterson's version.[141]
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.[142][143] 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."[144] 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.[145][146]
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.[147] 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.[119]
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 2008.[148][149] The gun industry representatives were asked to leave by the event's organizers.[150] Ball had been invited by Assembly Democrat Michelle Schimel to the demonstration of microstamping technology.[151] 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.[152][153] 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.[154] 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.[155] As of 2008, only California had passed similar legislation.[156]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9f/Gregball12.jpg/175px-Gregball12.jpg)
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.[158] 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.[159]
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.[160][161] 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.[162]
The Assemblyman has carried legislation to Albany for other constituents, including a measure in May 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.[163]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/Gregball11.jpg/204px-Gregball11.jpg)
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 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."[157] Ball has cosponsored several bipartisan bills that impact New York’s children with autism and their families.[166] 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".[157]
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.[167][168][169] 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.[169]
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.[170] The New York Sun reported that Ball defines himself as a moderate on the immigration issue.[171] 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.[172][173] Ball claims that the economy penalizes legal immigrants, unfairly impacts law abiding business owners, and exploits illegal laborers.[3]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b6/Gregball2.jpg/256px-Gregball2.jpg)
He was joined by former Immigration and Naturalization Service agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrants in the village of Brewster.[174] Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.[7] In October 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.[175][176][177][178] 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.[100][179]
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.[180][181][182][183][184] 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."[185]
In February 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.[186][187] He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with Neil Cavuto.[188] 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.[189] 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.[186][190] Ball held another regional summit in April 2008.[191][192] He emphasized that deporting nonviolent offenders before their sentence was up would save the state money.[193]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e6/Gregball6.jpg/211px-Gregball6.jpg)
He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically deported despite facing criminal charges.[189] 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.[186] 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."[187] The Assemblyman introduced a bill on behalf of 9/11 Families for a Secure America in April 2008 that mandates implementation of the 287(g) program statewide.[196]
Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.[197] His campaign headquarters in Pawling, New York [disambiguation needed] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with swastikas in October 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.[198][199] An oft-quoted line from his campaign literature was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".[200][201] 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.[202][203][204] 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."[205][206][207]
In June 2008, Ball's campaign sent out an e-mail piece that quoted from a Government Accountability Office study on illegal aliens and crime, which alleged that 55,322 illegal alien respondents had been arrested a total of 459,614 times. A local journalist noted that the study linked in the e-mail pertained to prison inmates, and stated that 68% of the 46,023 convictions were for immigration-related crimes, followed by 21% for drug-related crimes and 11% for other offenses.[208]
Energy and conservation
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2d/Gregball20.jpg/255px-Gregball20.jpg)
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".[210] 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.[211][212]
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.
— Assemblyman Greg Ball[92]
The Assemblyman supported Greasestock, an yearly event held in Yorktown to showcase clean renewable energy.[213][214][215] The event was founded in 2003 by individuals interested in vegetable powered vehicles.[216] The event now includes a number of alternative fuel exhibits, showcasing new green technologies for vehicles and other applications.[217]
2008 election
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c3/Gregball-volunteers.jpg/206px-Gregball-volunteers.jpg)
Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"[219] during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman John Hall in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.[79][220][221] 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."[222][223]
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.[224][225] 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.[226] 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."[70]
In early May 2008, John Degnan, the former Mayor of Brewster, New York, announced he would be mounting a challenge to the freshman Assemblyman.[227] 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."[228][229]
In the September 9th, 2008 primary, Ball was overwhelmingly reelected by a 3 to 1 margin amongst Republicans.[230][231][232][233] He will face Degnan, who has the Democratic nomination, in the general election.[234][235][236][237][238][239]
Complaints by opponent
On July 9, The Westchester Fair Campaign Practices Committee, a group of volunteer members of the League of Women Voters, met to review a mailer distributed by the Ball campaign following complaints by his opponent. The committee claimed that 10 of 12 claims submitted were "unfair" statements made in campaign literature published in newspapers and issued as a mailer in June about his opponent, John Degnan.[240][241][241] Following the ruling, Ball contended that the committee was biased, since it contained one registered Republican, one Independent, and eight Democrats, and has made similar rulings against other Repbulicans in the past.[240].
T.P.O. controversy
On August 26, 2008, a local newspaper known as The Putnam Times published court documents surrounding the break up between Ball and a Washington, D.C. woman in 2003. Ball blamed his Democratic challenger John Degnan for hiring private investigators for the newspaper article.[242] Ball stated both he and the woman both filed for orders of protection following the end of their relationship. In November of 2003, both Ball and the woman asked the court to dismiss their complaints against each other, which was done without determining whether what they claimed in their complaints was true, or just two people "venting after the messy breakup of a romantic relationship."Rojas, Marcela.[243] Ball told The Daily News that "It was just a heartfelt breakup where both parties jointly requested a 'cooling off' period, and the entire matter was mutually dismissed. My life is an open book, and always has been."[244]
While The Putnam Times, a local partisan paper funded by Ball's opponents, incorrectly reported that Ball violated the order of protection by following the woman to Israel on July 20th, News Channel 12, a regional network, pointed out that order of protection was filed six days earlier on July 14th, and court records state Ball traveled to Israel on June 20th.[245][246] The Poughkeepsie Journal also later pointed out that there was never a criminal restraining order, and the documents printed by the Times was actually a temporary order of protection, which anyone can request.[247]
Smear campaign allegations
Following the revelations that Ball's ex-girlfriend filed for an order of protection against him in 2003, on September 3, 2008 the Journal News reported that Evelyn Perrault, former member of Ball's staff had accused him of sexually harassing her in a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver detailing the incident.[248] Perrault's accusations were later found to be fabrications and Ball was exonerated.[249]
Initially, News 12 analyst Mike Edelman called the report "not credible," and many questioned the timing of the complaint, as the former staff member waited a year to write the letter until a few days before the primary election.[250].[251] The previous day, Ball had released e-mails from from his former Chief of Staff, which stated that Perreault was ready to "go forward with a lawsuit and 'embellish' some of the details," calling the letter to Silver into question.[252] Ball said the letter was part of a "smear campaign", and that the ex-Chief of Staff was a "mole" for State Senator Vincent Leibell, who was backing his primary opponent. Ball released a taped phone conversation between the ex-Chief of Staff and a local political candidate, where his former deputy stated he was working for "the senate" to "neuter" Ball.[253] Although at first, the ex-Chief of Staff denied working for the senate to The Journal News, the next day, he admitted it in another article, but Senator Leibell denied any conspiracy.[247]
The Assembly Ethics committee met in October 2008, reaching a ‘not guilty’ verdict[254][255] and ruling that no harassment ever occurred, and unanimously voted to throw out the frivolous charges against Assemblyman Ball.[256][257][258] The accuser, the 60-year-old Perrault, had been the target of numerous sexual harassment allegations at a prior job, where she was a supervisor.[259] [260] Overall, Perrault had settled four lawsuits for an undisclosed sum, at least three of which accused her of sexual harassment.[261]
Ball contended the woman's allegations were part of the smear campaign organized by his opponent, Degnan, who denied the claim, saying he had never met Perrault.[262] However, Degnan's campaign manager, the former Ball Chief-of-staff, sent the emails stating "Perrault is ready to go forward with a lawsuit and 'embellish some of the details" which seemed to counter this claim.[263] Ironically, the day after Ball was exonerated, Degnan campaign mailers were sent repeating the erroneous sexual harassment charge after it had been discredited. [264] After Ball was easily reelected in the September primary, Degnan had told News 12 he would consider toning down his negative campaign.
Electoral history
Candidate | Votes | % | ± | |
---|---|---|---|---|
✓ | Greg Ball (I) | 5,113 | 73.1% | |
John Degnan | 1,921 | 26.9% | ||
Turnout |
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% |
Candidate | Votes | % | ± | |
---|---|---|---|---|
✓ | Greg Ball | 5,165 | 70.4% | Challenger pickup |
Willis Stephens, Jr. (I) | 2,176 | 29.6% | ||
Turnout | 7,341 |
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 (June 30, 2005). "Politician Tells Voters They're Idiots". Associated Press.
{{cite news}}
: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ "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 (August 23, 2006). "Ball Fires at Will". North County News.
{{cite news}}
: External link in
(help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
|publisher=
(help) - ^ "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.
{{cite news}}
: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ 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.
{{cite news}}
: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ "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.
{{cite news}}
: External link in
(help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
|publisher=
(help) - ^ 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 "Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign". News 12 Networks. March 16, 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.
- ^ Argetsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "Courage Cup Organizers Cross Polo Mallets". Washington Post, C03. February 6, 2007.
- ^ a b Argetsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "Courage Cup: Ponying Up For Whose Charity?". Washington Post, C01. June 12, 2007.
- ^ "Citizens United for Ethical Growth. January 2004 Periodic Report". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved June 10, 2008.
- ^ "New Yorkers on the Ball. January 2008 Periodic Report". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved June 10, 2008.
- ^ 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. 2007-02-07. SenNet TV.
{{cite episode}}
: External link in
(help)|network=
- ^ 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 (2008-03-07). "Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring". The New York Times.
- ^ CNN (2008-03-10). "Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation". Retrieved 2008-03-10.
{{cite web}}
:|author=
has generic name (help) - ^ Hakim, Danny (March 10, 2008). "Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring". N.Y. / Region. The New York Times. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ "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. Retrieved 2008-03-12.
- ^ Confessore, Nicholas (March 13, 2008). "Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany". New York Times. Retrieved 2008-03-17.
{{cite news}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Mansfield, Melissa (2008-03-12). "Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda". Newsday. Retrieved 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 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.
- ^ "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.
- ^ Summers, Kathleen. "Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills". Humane Society of the United States. November 27, 2007.
- ^ 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. 2008-01-01. Fox News.
- ^ 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.
- ^ Rae, Leah. "Fact Check Greg Ball's Statistics on Illegal Aliens and Crime". The Journal News. June 5, 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.
- ^ Tara Rosenblum, Anchor (2008-03-16). "Ball launches re-election". Evening edition. News 12 Networks Westchester. N12WC.
- ^ "A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball". New York State Board of Elections. January 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.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Ball primary win upends attacks, Leibell". The Journal News. September 11, 2008.
- ^ Gross, Eric. "Ball by a landslide". Putnam County Courier. September 10, 2008.
- ^ Moser, Anna Lillian. "Ball crushes Degnan". North County News. [[September 11], 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael and Rojas, Marcela. "GOP voters overwhelmingly go with Ball over Degnan". The Journal News. September 9, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Ball rolls over Degnan easily". The Journal News. September 10, 2008.
- ^ Gross, Eric. "It wasn't event close: Ball wins big in primary". Pawling News Chronicle. September 10, 2008.
- ^ "Ball beats Degnan easily, but tensions persist". News 12 Networks. September 10, 2008.
- ^ "Ball easily survives Republican primary challenge". Mid-Hudson News. September 10, 2008.
- ^ Rojas, Marcela. "Ball defeats Degnan by 3-to-1 margin". Poughkeepsie Journal. September 10, 2008.
- ^ "[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=217291# Ball defeats Degnan, both live to fight another day]". News 12 Networks. September 9, 2008.
- ^ a b Chase, Kelly, "Committee says some of Ball's claims unfair". North County News. July 17, 2008.
- ^ a b Risnit, Michael. "Fairness committee reviews Ball mailer". The Journal News. July 9, 2008.
- ^ "Westchester pol cries foul at alleged smear campaign". News 12 Networks. August 26, 2008.
- ^ "Ball denies violating court order". Poughkeepsie Journal. August 26, 2008.
- ^ Blain, Glenn. "[1]." Daily News. August 26, 2008.
- ^ News 12 reported that "In addition, Ball wants the FBI to step up an investigation of allegations he made last year, accusing Leibell of publishing a newspaper article, which incorrectly claimed Ball violated an order of protection brought by a former girlfriend after they broke up.
- ^ WC pol levels new charges against opponent". News 12 Networks. September 3, 2008.
- ^ a b Risinit, Michael. "GOP primary candidates locked in bitter spat". Poughkeepsie Journal. September 7, 2008.
- ^ "Former staff member says Ball sexually harassed her". The Journal News. September 3, 2008.
- ^ Gormley, Michael. "NY Assembly committee: No sex harassment by Ball". Newsday. October 23, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Attacks, accusations build in primary battle". The Journal News. September 7, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "More on the sex harassment accusation in the 99th". The Journal News. September 4, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Mike. "Ball alleges smear, denies harassment." The Journal News. September 4, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "Former staff member says Ball sexually harassed her". The Journal News. September 3, 2008.
- ^ "(10/24/08) YORKTOWN - The Assembly Ethics Committee reached a ‘not guilty’ verdict in the case of Assemblyman Greg Ball (R), who was accused of sexually harassing a former staffer."&mdash"News 12. Retrieved October 25, 2008.
- ^ Risinit, Michael. "No evidence sexual harassment by Ball, Silver says". Journal News. October 24, 2008.
- ^ http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20081023/NEWS12/81023030
- ^ "Ball did not harass staffer, panel decides". Poughkeepsie Journal. October 24, 2008.
- ^ Karlin, Rick. "Ball cleared of harassment charges". Albany Times-Union. October 23, 2008.
- ^ Spector, Joseph. "Ball calls for quick decision in possible ethics probe". Journal News. September 25, 2008.
- ^ "Ball cleared of sexual harassment charges". Mid-Hudson News. October 24, 2008.
- ^ Spector, Joseph. "Ball Cleared In Sexual Harassment Case". Journal News. October 23, 2008.
- ^ "Assembly Ethics Committee Drops Unsubstantiated Charges Against Greg Ball". Yonkers Tribune. October 23, 2008.
- ^ Fois, Bob. "Politics Without Scandal In New York State: Greg Ball Cleared". Newscopy. October 25, 2008.
- ^ Goff, John. "Westchester pol cleared of sexual misconduct charges". News 12 Networks. October 24, 2008.
- ^ 2008 Primary returns. New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved October 2008.
- ^ In the Independence Primary, Ball received 239 votes (80.3%), Degnan received 59 votes (19.7%)
- ^ "September 12, 2006 Primary Vote Assembly Districts". New York State Board of Elections. Retrieved on February 22, 2008.
External links
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Wikiquote-logo.svg/34px-Wikiquote-logo.svg.png)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- 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 practices.
- Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball
- League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball
- Members of the New York Assembly
- 1977 births
- Living people
- United States Air Force Academy graduates
- Putnam County, New York politicians
- Republican Party (United States) politicians
- New York Republicans
- United States Air Force officers
- Real estate and property developers
- Veterans' rights activists
- American business executives