October 19, 2009

Blame Yonkers death on enablers

The selfish act that took the life of Yonkers firefighter Patrick Joyce Jr. and injured two others is another example of the escalating lawlessness on the southwest of Yonkers.

This tragedy should be a wake-up call for those who enable and come up with endless excuses to justify irresponsibility and disregard for others in today's culture.

To add insult to injury, it should be noted that the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN), which does such great work for the "poor and disadvantaged" in society, was awarded a $1 million grant by the Department of Homeland Security, while a deserving fire department in Louisiana had to bite the dust. FEMA's Web site says that in addition to fire departments, the grants are sometimes awarded to community organizations that are recognized for their experience and expertise in fire prevention and safety programs and activities.

If ACORN and others were doing such a magnificent job in low-income neighborhoods, Patrick Joyce would still be here today.

My heart goes out to his family and those brave people who constantly put their lives on the line for others.

I thank Mayor Phil Amicone and Fire Commissioner Anthony Pagano for speaking out that this wild-wild west behavior will no longer be tolerated in Yonkers.

Lisette Muntslag

Yonkers

http://www.lohud.com/article/20091019/OPINION/910190311/1016/OPINION02/Blame-Yonkers-death-on-enablers