The English translation of a French saying, "the more things change, the more they stay the same," seems particularly apt with regard to two recent articles.
"Graft never sleeps in history of old Albany," Dec. 10, describes corruption in Albany 100 years ago when the Republicans were in charge. The day before, the Advocate column presented the almost ludicrous tale of the longtime concessionaire for Albany's Swinburne Park ice skating rink losing his contract ("In battle of the mayors, ice skaters lose," Dec. 9). It would be laughable if it weren't such a sad example of the political chicanery that continues to exist in Albany, apparently for whichever party holds the power.
Certainly, two sides exist to every story. The workers and supervisors who Dennis VanAmburgh irked may have some legitimate gripes, but the tossing of his equipment within a couple hours of his on-air question to Mayor Jerry Jennings certainly seems like over-the-top retribution.
Many of us have fond memories of taking our children skating at Swinburne Park, getting a snack and a soothing hot chocolate at the concession stand. Getting these same items from vending machines just won't be the same. Nor will a machine be able to help lace up or sharpen some skates.
Perhaps some humanity is needed, not just behind the counter at Swinburne skating rink, but in the executive offices of the Albany Parks and Recreation Department as well as in City Hall.
ANN SHAPIRO
Albany