Potpourri for a Sunday

Washington trouble

Talked to a political type with great past success lobbying in Washington.

With 15 years of experience lobbying in Washington my friend explains the science. Usually approaching our NY delegation and other friendlies from both sides to ask for help. Even when they had nothing to offer they would share intel. Last week on the Hill, the usual sources were coming forth asking for intel rather than the other way around. They are scared shitless and no longer empowered to advocate for their district. These are scary times for institutions that make Western New York special. It continues until a half dozen Republicans form a bloc and side with the people or we hit midterms and a bunch of neutered legislators decide not to run again or get exposed/primaries for refusing to face their constituents in a town hall and refusing to advocate for their home district.

Right church, wrong pew

Last week I shared a tip Niagara Falls City School Board is pushing Counsel Angelo Massaro out due to his age. Guess who is next man up? Anthony Restaino Jr. is his replacement.

He is son of the city administrator and nephew of the Mayor.

Restaino Jr.’s law partner is Neil E. Reddien. Reddien is now working in the city attorney’s office as acting Deputy Corporation counsel. Tom DeBoy is acting corporation counsel.

Reddien lists his expertise on the firm’s Website as estate planning, estate administration and real estate. No idea how that translates to municipal law.

Restaino Jr. lists his expertise as personal injury, traffic violations and real estate. No idea how that relates to education law but hey, I am sensing a pattern.

When does spring start?

April has felt like March. I still have been walking daily. Between the gorge, DeVeaux Woods and Stonehaven Nature Preserve I see a ton of immature trout lilies and some colts foot (pictured above) but no ramps.

Does anyone know where I might find some on this side of Niagara County?