Klein and Savino Make It Official

Here is a New York Times article about the worst kept secret in the State Senate -- the relationship between Bronx Senator Jeff Klein and Diane Savino, who represents parts of Staten Island and Brooklyn. They have been dubed "Klavino". You might recall that both are also part of a group of 4 Democrats who formed a breakaway conference.

Jimmy Vacca for Bronx BP?

Here is a posting by Bob Kappstatter of the Daily News about the future chances of Bronx City Councilman James Vacca becoming Borough President.

Diaz Sr. "Offended" by Cuomo's Push on Gay Marriage

Celeste Katz over at the Daily News reports that State Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr. is "deeply offended" by Governor Andrew Cuomo's efforts to legalize gay marriage. In a statement, Diaz is quoted as saying, "I am deeply offended that during this Holy Week, which is a most sacred time to millions of New Yorkers, Governor Andrew Cuomo is working hard to mobilize elected officials to legalize homosexual marriage in New York."

Councilmembers Vacca and Palma Sponsor Snow Bill

Bronx News Network reports that Bronx Councilmembers Anabel Palma and Jimmy Vacca are sponsoring a blizzard bill that will set forth protocols when the City is hit with a major storm like the post-Christmas storm that dumped 2 feet of snow on us. The new bill would set forth criteria for which streets to clean first as well as providing an inventory of snow management equipment and personnel. Just in time for summer.

Former Bronx Boss Rips Cuomo

Here is a video posted on the Bronx News Network of former Bronx Boss and Assemblyman Jose Rivera criticizing Governor Cuomo on the budget, including not extending the "millionnaires tax." Jose has been taking videos for decades so it would be great to see some more of his archives.

Koppell Wants ACS Chief to Resign

Here is City Councilman Oliver Koppell calling for the Commissioner of the Administration for Child Services John Mattingly to step down in the aftermath of a four year old in the agency's supervision.

Espada and Son Plead Not-Guilty

Former State Senator Pedro Espada and his son Pedro G. Espada pleaded not guilty today to new charges accusing them of tax evasion. They are charged with filing bogus tax returns for hundreds of thousands of dollars in business expenses for a community development company they ran. Last December they were charged with embezzling $500,000 from the health care clinic they ran to pay for Broadway shows, sporting events and meals. This is some family business.