PEEKSKILL POLITICS USING FIRE DEPT FOR POLITICAL USE

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Mayor Testa and Deputy Mayor Pisani Take Councilwoman Foster

to Task for Refusing to Honor Firefighters Two Years in a Row

Mayoral Candidate Bill Schmidt Stands Alongside Firefighters in

Solemn Tribute to those Lost in the Line of Duty

What could be more important than honoring fallen heroes?

August 15, 2007

Dear Citizens of Peekskill:

August 1st is the day on which Peekskill honors the firefighters who protect our lives and property at great personal expense through acts of bravery, decency, generosity, and selflessness.

What makes this day significant is that on August 1st, 1918, there was a horrific fire at the Fleischmann factory on what is now John Walsh Boulevard. It was the most tragic civilian event in Peekskill's history. Seven firefighters lost their lives that day.

Each year, the Peekskill fire department holds a solemn ceremony to honor the selfless seven, as well as the current members of the force who risk their lives for us every day. The Mayor and Common Council, as elected representatives of our community, are asked to participate alongside the members of the fire department in their solemn tribute.

We have always been proud to stand with the men and women who protect us. We believe it is important to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our community.

We are greatly disturbed that Councilwoman Mary Foster, who has been on the Council for eighteen months, has opted not to attend this event twice. This is a direct slap in the face to the firefighters who perished, to their families, as well as the men and women who so honorably serve us today. What could be more important than honoring those who have given their lives to protect our safety and property? Why does Foster refuse to attend the volunteer firefighters' annual ceremony?

The citizens of Peekskill place a great trust in elected officials. It is important for those who have the privilege to be elected, especially those who aspire to our City's highest office, to put Peekskill first. Mayoral candidate Bill Schmidt showed his leadership superiority by honoring Peekskill firefighters on August 1st.

Mayor John G. Testa

Deputy Mayor Cathy Pisani

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According to Councilwoman Foster ( Mayoral Candidate - 07) Dragon Boat practice for the Peekskill Celebration the Saturday following the memorial both years.

Too bad FD gets dragged in, but then again 7 brothers who gave their lives be it 89 years ago deserve to be honored and remembered by the city officials. Personal obligations and vacations are understandable, but Dragon Boat Practice with 19 other team members? I think a 1/2 hour is not too much to ask and then to Dragon Boat practice. But to each his/her own and what they feel is a priority, it will be up to the department members who are eligible to vote in November to decide what they feel is the right vote for them.

God Bless the Fleischmann Seven - Peekskill August 1, 1918