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Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T19:03:30Z

Mrprada911: remove redlinks

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster, in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the Humane Society of the United States to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of dog fighting.<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically deported despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in Pawling may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with swastikas in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T19:02:49Z

Mrprada911: /* Early career and background */ remove redlinks

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster]], in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the Humane Society of the United States to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of dog fighting.<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically deported despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in Pawling may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with swastikas in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T19:01:29Z

Mrprada911: /* Illegal immigration */ remove redlinks

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster]], in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the Humane Society of the United States to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of dog fighting.<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically deported despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in Pawling may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with swastikas in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T19:00:53Z

Mrprada911: /* Committee work and legislation */ remove redlink

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster]], in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the Humane Society of the United States to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of dog fighting.<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in [[Pawling, New York]] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T19:00:10Z

Mrprada911: /* Early career and background */ remove redlinks

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster]], in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area Chambers of Commerce and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of [[2008]].<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the [[Humane Society of the United States]] to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of [[dog fighting]].<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in [[Pawling, New York]] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-04-02T18:59:37Z

Mrprada911: remove redlinks

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born September 16, 1977) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, former active duty [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of Lawmakers for Legal Immigration, an immigration reform group. He is a resident of Carmel, [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the ranking member on the [[veterans|Veteran's Affairs]] committee; and is also a member of the Election Law; Energy; Housing; and Social Services Committees.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents New York's 99th assembly district which is comprised of the towns Patterson, Mahopac, Carmel, Southeast, Putnam Lake and Brewster]], in Putnam County; Yorktown, |Mohegan Lake, Somers, and North Salem in Westchester County; and Pawling in Duchess County.

Beginning his political career in 2005, he defeated six-term incumbent Willis Stephens in a primary in September of 2006, running of a platform of reforming the legislature in Albany. Since being elected, Ball has been active in issues involving school and property tax reform, animal protection, the environment, veteran's affairs, and illegal immigration. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for higher office.

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in Pawling, New York, and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and Jean Kennedy-Smith, sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a Bachelors of Arts in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in International Affairs at [[Georgetown University]], and was a [[fellow]] at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area [[Chambers of Commerce]] and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] Drug Policy Office during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the 11th Wing as a protocol officer to the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.<ref>"VOTER'S GUIDE: 99th state Assembly District". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 29]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by General John P. Jumper and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of 2005 at the rank of Captain.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for Exceed International, a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In 2006, Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village of Brewster which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
In early 2005, Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a Republican and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent Assemblyman Will Stephens in a primary.<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref><ref>"Pawling man seeks GOP support for Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[May 31]], [[2005]].</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, D. Mallory Stephens, represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Pawling man sets his sights on state Assembly seat". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 27]], [[2005]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted felon and reputed mob boss James Galante, who was later awarded a $1.5 million no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, Democrat Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On September 12, 2006, in the Republican Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and highlighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Rentz, Neal. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/archives/archives_2006/8-30-06/news3.htm Nasty Race for State Assembly Seat Nears Finish Line]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[August 30]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>"Foe questions ethics of assemblyman's mailing". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 8]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's electoral fusion system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the Conservative and Independence lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his name removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on November 6, 2006.<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the ''Poughkeepsie Journal'', Fraternal Order of Police, Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith and Duchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sheriffs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"Ball has earned chance to serve". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 21]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''The Journal News'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after the election.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007 – )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/><ref>"GOP legislators tout 'Road to Reform'". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 21]], [[2007]].</ref> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Valley Republicans take Assembly oath". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 3]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball rose to speak in the Assembly chamber, he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>Hammond, Bill. "[http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2007/02/my-voice-will-be-heard.html My voice will be heard]". ''[[Daily News (New York)|Daily News]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by former Governor [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Newcomer Ball slowly learns ropes". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 17]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Colleagues boo freshman during scolding of Assembly". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan New York University School of Law's Brennan Center for Justice, which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

====State and local tax reform====
Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an inflation-indexed cap on spending and school andproperty tax increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusetts]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Governor missed golden opportunity to curb spending". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[April 6]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has proposed measures to cap or eliminate the state sales tax on gasoline, and voted for the measure signed by Governor Spitzer to reform the State Budget process with more openness and transparency.<ref name="greenstock"/><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=story&story=20999 Ball Keeps His Promise – Eliminates Pork Barrel and Reforms Budget Process]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[January 25]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A02755 Bill Summary - A02755]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by State Senator Vincent Leibell, a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by Putnam county legislators to carry a bill to Albany during the 2007 county "budget crisis"<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref>, requesting a sales tax increase to 8.375%, which County Executive Robert Bondi, a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0502/front_page/001.html Legislature Considers Alternatives Should Sales Tax Renewal and Increase Fall Through]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 2]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0509/front_page/001.html County Legislator O'Dell's Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability Tabled While Tamagna's and Ball's Budget Forum Looms]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[May 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/><ref>Sternberg, Margaret. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0404/front_page/001.html County Sales Tax Renewal and .5 Percent Increase Approved in Committee]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[April 4]], [[2007]].</ref> Another state legislator, Democrat [[Sandra Galef]], eventually introduced the tax increase bill to the Assembly.<ref>Leiter, Maria. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2007/0725/Front_Page/001.html County Legislature Approves Saltes Tax Increase]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[July 25]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball later joined with a county legislator in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubbornness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the property tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an Empire Zone to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to 501c3 non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the American Red Cross.<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Foley, Kevin. "[http://www.pcnr.com/news/2008/0206/Front_Page/006.html ARC in Greater NY Receives Grant for Computers at New Putnam Office]". ''[http://www.pcnr.com Putnam County News and Recorder]''. [[February 6]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Reaction to Governor Spitzer's resignation====
Although both Spitzer and Ball had been elected on platforms of reform, Ball called on the Governor to resign when the ''The New York Times'' reported that Spitzer had patronized a prostitution service called [[Emperors Club VIP]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/07/nyregion/07prostitution.html |title=Four Charged With Running Online Prostitution Ring |first=Alan |last=Feuer |date=2008-03-07 |work=The New York Times }}</ref> and met with a [[call girl]]<ref name="post chronicle2">{{cite web | url = http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212135352.shtml | title = Emperor's Club Call Girl Photos: Client No. 9, Eliot Spitzer's Fall |author=Post Chronicle | date = [[2008-03-11]] | accessdate = 2008-03-11 }}</ref> under the alias "George Fox".<ref name="cnn080310">{{cite web |url = http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/10/spitzer/index.html |title = Sources: Spitzer under prostitution investigation |author = CNN |date = 2008-03-10 |accessdate = 2008-03-10}}</ref><ref name = "NYTProst">{{cite web |url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/10/nyregion/10cnd-spitzer.html?_r=1&hp |title= Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring |accessdate= 2008-03-10 |last= Hakim |first= Danny |authorlink=
|coauthors= William K. Rashbaum |date= [[March 10]], [[2008]] |work= N.Y. / Region |publisher= [[The New York Times]]}}</ref>

{{Quotation|Over the past year, my initial optimism has been replaced with a realistic view of an unfortunate Governor who has become a kamikaze pilot on cruise control. First gay marriage, then a budget so bloated it made drunken sailors cringe, then driver's licenses for illegal aliens, and now this. Lawmakers in Albany have been prostituting themselves to lobbyists and special interests for decades, but this Governor has evidently taken it to a whole new level. Early in my term as a new Assemblyman, I put my partisanship aside and looked forward to everything changing on 'Day One.' Indeed, maybe naïvely, I was actually optimistic of this Governor's ability to take on the entrenched special interests in a non-partisan fashion and finally bring needed reform. Our hopes for reform have once again been sunk by the politics of personal destruction and incompetence. This madness needs to end, and we have to finally begin focusing on the real issues: tax reform, ethics reform, term limits and a balanced budget.|Greg Ball<ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=116 Governor Spitzer caught in prostitution ring]". ''[http://assemblymanball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 11]], [[2008]].</ref>}}

The Governor announced his resignation the day after Ball's comments, and left office on March 17, 2008.<ref name="NYT-2008-03-12-Spitzer Resignation Text">
{{cite journal
| author=Eliot Spitzer
| title=Full Text of Spitzer Resignation| journal=New York Times
| year=March 12, 2008
| url=http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/full-text-of-spitzer-resignation
| accessdate= 2008-03-12
}}</ref> He was replaced by his [[Lieutenant Governor of New York|Lieutenant Governor]], [[David Paterson]].<ref name="NYT-2008-03-13-Confessore-Peters">{{cite news | first=Nicholas | last= Confessore | coauthors= Jeremy W. Peters | title= Hope for Harmony in a Shaken Albany
| date= March 13, 2008 | publisher= | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/nyregion/13albany.html | work = New York Times | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-17 }}</ref> Ball stated that "My heart and prayers go out to Mrs. Spitzer and the Spitzer family. Yet my heart also goes out to the millions of New Yorkers, of all political persuasions, who voted for this man believing that he, Spitzer, would finally champion the cause of the people and work to clean up Albany... Immediately, as a member of the Legislature, I will now welcome the new Governor. I look forward to a new, fresh start."<ref name = 'Newsday-2008-03-12-Mansfield'>
{{cite news
|url= http://www.newsday.com/news/local/state/ny-stagen0312,0,6475399.story
|work= [[Newsday]]
|title= Paterson expected to stick to Spitzer's agenda
|first= Melissa
|last= Mansfield
|date= 2008-03-12
|accessdate=2008-03-12
}}</ref><ref>"[http://ball4ny.com/blogEntry.aspx?entryID=125 Governor Spitzer resigns]". ''[http://ball4assembly.com Ball for Assembly]''. [[March 18]], [[2008]].</ref>

====Committee work and legislation====
As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both SUNY and CUNY undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York Higher Education Services Corporation only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref> Numerous members of the New York Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the State Commander, spoke in favor of the bill before the Assembly in February of [[2008]].<ref>"[http://www.vfwny.com/WHOVILLE/Whoville.pdf The Whoville Legislative Register]". ''[[New York]] [[Veterans of Foreign Wars]]''. Vol. 5, No. 6. [[February 5]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the New York Farm Bureau.<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/>

As a pet owner, Ball has made animal protection a campaign platform, and he secured grants for Guiding Eyes for the Blind and local humane societies, and has co-sponsored legislation to prohibit the slaughter of horses for the purpose of human consumption, as well as a bill to allow guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs to be allowed in public places during their training.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070803/ Ball Supports Animal Rights]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[August 3]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball worked closely with the [[Humane Society of the United States]] to pass legislation to outlaw puppy mills, which are large commercial kennels that are notorious for substandard conditions and an "assembly line" approach to churning out puppies.<ref>Summers, Kathleen. "[http://www.hsus.org/pets/pets_related_news_and_events/advocates_take_a_bite_out_of_112607.html Advocates Take a Bite Out of Puppy Mills]". ''[[Humane Society of the United States]]''. [[November 27]], [[2007]].</ref> The bill, known both as "Charlemagne's Law" and "The Puppy Mill Act", strengthens a previous measure he had created, and is the product of a constituent who lost a beloved pet due to parasites, ear mites, kennel cough and a corneal ulcer all stemming from the poor environment of the puppy mill.<ref>Flaim, Denise. "[http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-hopets5496610dec13,0,5183129.column Puppy mills need to be stopped at the demand end]". ''[[Newsday]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/19/meows-and-woofs-instead-of-yays-and-nays/ Meows and woofs instead of yays and nays]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 19]], [[2007]].</ref> The legislation prohibits pet stores from selling dogs bred in puppy mills, and was introduced alongside another bill which would impose stiffer penalties for those convicted of [[dog fighting]].<ref>"[http://www.ballforny.com/animalprotection.aspx Animal Protection]". ''[http://www.ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved [[March 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has been involved in the fight to keep Pepsi Bottling Group in his district, after the company, which is Westchester County's second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

====Illegal immigration====
According to ''The Journal News'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former INS agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"GOP group critical of Spitzer plan". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[March 2]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group State Legislators for Legal Immigration.<ref>"[[http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in Danbury, Connecticut sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement, calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement]". Retrieved [[March 23]], [[2008]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g) program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure during a Fox News interview with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the Department of Homeland Security by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Pawling forum offers info on rape cases probe". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 16]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in [[Pawling, New York]] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>"GOP candidate is target of vandals". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

====Energy and conservation====
While his campaign has called for the widening of New York State Route 22 and completion of the Bear Mountain State Parkway, Ball has called attention to both the economic and environmental impact of the project, stating that "its a huge concern. It must be expanded. I am willing to work with the environmentalists and regional planners to get this project off the ground once and for all".<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19360326&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Supervisor Rights criticizes DOT for detouring Route 22 expansion]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 6]], [[2008]].</ref> The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of alternative fuels, establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>"Report: Green bills do well in Legislature". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[October 19]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball sent out a statement stating that, "I love being the assemblyman. There's a lot I'm accomplishing at the local level and there's still a lot that needs to be done."<ref>"Ball wants to stay in Assembly, forgoing challenge for Congress". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[January 1]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"Hall admits '07 had its pitfalls". ''[[Poughkeepsie Journal]]''. [[December 27]], [[2007]].</ref>

===2008 election===
On [[March 17]], [[2008]], Ball announced that he would be a candidate for reelection during an event at an Irish restaurant in Yorktown Heights, flanked by new Westchester GOP Chairman [[Douglas Colety]], Putnam GOP Chairman [[Anthony Scannapieco, Jr.]], and Westchester County Executive candidate [[Rob Astorino]].<ref>"[http://www.ball4ny.com/events/home.htm St. Patrick's Day Brunch]". ''[http://www.gballevents.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>{{cite episode
| title = Ball launches re-election
| url = http://news12.cv.net/video/AW0316BT.wmv
| series = Evening edition
| credits = Tara Rosenblum, Anchor
| network = ''[[News 12 Networks]] [[Westchester, New York|Westchester]]''
| station = N12WC
| airdate = 2008-03-16
}}</ref> Ball highlighted the fact that his campaign had received the most money and more contributions from individual donors then any other incumbent minority Assemblyman in the last quarter of 2007.<ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/CONTRIBUTORA_COUNTY?ID_in=A18887&date_From=&date_to=&AMOUNT_From=&AMOUNT_to=&ZIP1=&ZIP2=&ORDERBY_IN=A&CATEGORY_IN=ALL A1887. New Yorkers on the Ball]". ''[[New York Board of Elections]]''. [[January]] [[2008]].</ref> In a speech to supporters, Ball stated that "I'm a maverick Republican. I came into this business from outside the political machine. That makes me a target for Albany insiders."<ref name="news12">"[http://www.news12.com/WC/topstories/article?id=208710 Top stories: Westchester assemblyman kicks off election campaign]". ''[[News 12 Networks]]''. [[March 16]], [[2008]].</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|3}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.GballEvents.com Campaign events for Assemblyman Greg Ball]
*[http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall Picasaweb Albums for Greg Ball]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Americans]]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-03-01T04:37:18Z

Mrprada911:

'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born [[September 16]], [[1977]]) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, retired [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of [http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration], an immigration reform group. He is a resident of [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the [[Ranking member]] on the [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/Vets/20060830/ Veteran's Affairs] committee, and is also a member of the [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=13 Election Law], [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=14 Energy], [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=22 Housing], and [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=35 Social Services Committees].<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents [[New York's 99th assembly district]] which is comprised of the towns [[Patterson, New York|Patterson]], [[Mahopac, New York|Mahopac]], [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[Southeast, New York|Southeast]], [[Putnam Lake, New York|Putnam Lake]] and [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]], in [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]]; [[Yorktown, New York|Yorktown]], [[Mohegan Lake, New York|Mohegan Lake]], [[Somers, New York|Somers]], and [[North Salem, New York|North Salem]] in [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County]]; and [[Pawling (town), New York|Pawling]] in [[Dutchess County, New York|Duchess County]].

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in [[Pawling, New York|Pawling]], [[New York]], and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and [[Jean Kennedy|Jean Kennedy-Smith]], sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious [[Valley Forge Military Academy and College|Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the [[United States Air Force Academy]] from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a [[Bachelors of Arts]] in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in [[International Affairs]] at [[Georgetown University]], and was a [[fellow]] at the [[Center for the Study of the Presidency]] from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area [[Chambers of Commerce]] and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] [[ONDCP|Drug Policy Office]] during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the [[11th Wing]] as a [[Aide-de-camp|protocol officer]] to the [[Secretary of the Air Force]] and the [[Air Force Chief of Staff]].<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by [[General (United States)|General]] [[John P. Jumper]] and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of [[2005]] at the rank of [[Captain (OF-2)|Captain]].<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the [[Individual Ready Reserve|U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve]] to this day.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for [http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International], a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In [[2006]], Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]] which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
Following controversy involving New York State Assemblyman [[Will Stephens]], Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent in a primary in [[2005]].<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, [[D. Mallory Stephens]], represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted [[felon]] and reputed mob boss [[James Galante]], who was later awarded a 1.5 million dollar no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratc]] Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On [[September 12]], [[2006]], in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and hilighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's [[electoral fusion]] system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the [[Conservative Party of New York|Conservative]] and [[Independence Party of New York|Independence]] lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his named removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on [[November 6]], [[2006]].<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the [[Fraternal Order of Police]], [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]] [[Sheriff]] [[Donald Smith]] and [[Duchess County, New York|Duchess County]] [[Sheriff]] Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sherrifs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''[[The Journal News]]'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after election day.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>

===First term (2007- )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA rose to speak in the Assembly chamber], he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by [[Governor of New York|Governor]] [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan [[New York University School of Law|New York University School of Law's]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]], which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an [[Inflation-indexed bond|inflation-indexed]] cap on spending and school and [[property tax]] increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusettes]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has also proposed measures to cap or eliminate the [[excise tax|state sales tax on gasoline]].<ref name="greenstock"/> He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by [[State Senator]] [[Vincent Leibell]], a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by county legislators to carry a bill to [[Albany, New York|Albany]] requesting a sales tax of 8.375%, which County Executive [[Robert Bondi]], a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending|pork]]" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/> Ball later joined with a [[Westchester County Board of Legislators|county legislator]] in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubborness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an [[Empire Zone]] to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to [[501c3]] non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the [[American Red Cross]].<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref>

As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both [[SUNY]] and [[CUNY]] undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York [http://www.hesc.com Higher Education Services Corporation] only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref>

His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau].<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> He has also been involved in the fight to keep [[Pepsi Bottling Group]] in his district, after the company, which is [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County's]] second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

According to ''[[The Journal News]]'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former [[INS]] agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized [[Eliot_spitzer#Controversy_over_driver.27s_licenses_for_illegal_immigrants|Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants]].<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group [http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ State Legislators for Legal Immigration].<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in [[Danbury, Connecticut|Danbury]], [[Connecticut]] sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement], calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the [[Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g)]] program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. [[Immigration and Customs Enforcement]] (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE during a Fox News interview] with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the [[Department of Homeland Security]] by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in [[Pawling, New York]] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of [[alternative fuels]], establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref>

===Courage Cup controversy===
In January of 2007, Ball became involved in a dispute with Andrea Rodgers and Keri Ann Meslar, who ran a charity event known as the "Courage Cup." Ball founded the charity in 2004, prior to his first run for office. His former friends resisted his attempt to retake a leadership role in 2007, and Ball countered that he was the Courage Cup's rightful owner and that the two women stole his intellectual property.<ref name="polo1">Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/05/AR2007020501739.html Courage Cup Organizers Cross Polo Mallets]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C03. [[February 6]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball had been stationed at [[Bolling Air Force Base]] in [[Washington D.C.]], where he organized the first Courage Cup in 2004, raising nearly $8,000 for the [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]], [[Pennsylvania]] based [[Work to Ride ]] program and other organizations.<ref name="polo2">"[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/12/polo-anyone/ Assemblyman Ball trading shots in D.C. charity polo event debate]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 2]], [[2007]]</ref>

A ''[[Washington Post]]'' article from June of 2007 implied that one of the event directors offered tickets at difference price level with proceeds going to a [[Political Action Committee]] which would later support Ball, although Ball's campaign stated it had nothing to do with the fund raising and that the destination of profits from the event were clearly stated on the purchase form. Despite this, several Courage Cup supporters were surprised that what they believed were charitable contributions were used for political purposes.<ref>Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/11/AR2007061102424_pf.html Courage Cup: Ponying Up For Whose Charity?]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C01. [[June 12]], [[2007]].</ref> Phillip Karber, a member of the board of directors for The Courage Cup who described himself as a neutral party, stated that "Ball has done a phenomenal job of getting this thing organized and getting it started. The new people did a good job of not letting it die."<ref name="polo2"/>

==Notes==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

Gregory R. Ball

2008-03-01T04:34:42Z

Mrprada911: I wrote this article myself for Wikipedia, transposing it here

{{Persondata
|NAME = Ball, Greg
|ALTERNATIVE NAMES = Ball, Gregory R.
|SHORT DESCRIPTION = Politician
|DATE OF BIRTH = [[September 16]], [[1977]]
|PLACE OF BIRTH = [[Pawling, New York]]
|DATE OF DEATH =
|PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{Infobox_Politician
| name = Greg Ball
| image = Ball - Version 2.jpg|200px
| imagesize = 200px
| caption =
| birth_date = September 16, 1977
| birth_place = {{flagicon|New York|size=30px}}[[Pawling, New York]]
| residence = [[Carmel, New York]]
| death_date =
| death_place =
| office = [[New York's 99th assembly district|Assemblyman, 99th District]]
| salary =
| term_start = 2007
| term_end = incumbent
| predecessor = [[Will Stephens|Willis Stephens, Jr.]]
| successor =
| constituency =
| office2 =
| salary2 =
| term_start2 =
| term_end2 =
| predecessor2 =
| successor2 =
| constituency2 =
| office3 =
| salary3 =
| term_start3 =
| term_end3 =
| predecessor3 =
| successor3 =
| constituency3 =
| party = [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]]
| religion = Catholic
| occupation = Businessman<br />Air Force Officer<br />Legislator
| majority =
| spouse =
| children =
| website = [http://www.assemblymangball.com www.AssemblymanBall.com]
| footnotes = [http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=bio Official Biography]<ref name="officialbio">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=bio Official Biography of Assemblyman Greg Ball]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref>
}}
'''Gregory R. Ball''' (born [[September 16]], [[1977]]) is an [[United States|American]] business executive, retired [[United States Air Force|Air Force]] officer and member of the [[New York State Assembly]]. Ball has risen to prominence for his views on [[illegal immigration]], and has been named a Chairman of [http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ Lawmakers for Legal Immigration], an immigration reform group. He is a resident of [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[New York]].

Assemblyman Ball serves as the [[Ranking member]] on the [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/Vets/20060830/ Veteran's Affairs] committee, and is also a member of the [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=13 Election Law], [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=14 Energy], [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=22 Housing], and [http://assembly.state.ny.us/comm/?sec=post&id=35 Social Services Committees].<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099&sh=com Committee memberships]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He represents [[New York's 99th assembly district]] which is comprised of the towns [[Patterson, New York|Patterson]], [[Mahopac, New York|Mahopac]], [[Carmel, New York|Carmel]], [[Southeast, New York|Southeast]], [[Putnam Lake, New York|Putnam Lake]] and [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]], in [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]]; [[Yorktown, New York|Yorktown]], [[Mohegan Lake, New York|Mohegan Lake]], [[Somers, New York|Somers]], and [[North Salem, New York|North Salem]] in [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County]]; and [[Pawling (town), New York|Pawling]] in [[Dutchess County, New York|Duchess County]].

== Early career and background ==
Ball was born in [[Pawling, New York|Pawling]], [[New York]], and grew up on the Kennedy estate of Stephen and [[Jean Kennedy|Jean Kennedy-Smith]], sister of [[President of the United States|President]] [[John F. Kennedy]], where his parents were both caretakers.<ref name="feet">Klein, Benjamin. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1874&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Ball looks to hold people’s feet to the fire]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 16]], [[2007]].</ref> He attended the prestigious [[Valley Forge Military Academy and College|Valley Forge Military Academy]] before receiving an appointment to the [[United States Air Force Academy]] from Congresswoman [[Sue Kelly]].<ref name="officialbio"/> He was the first member of his family to attend college.<ref name="campaignbio">"[http://www.ball4ny.com/about.aspx About Greg]". ''[http://www.assemblymangball.com/ Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received a [[Bachelors of Arts]] in Government in 2001.<ref name="officialbio"/> He is currently completing a Masters thesis in [[International Affairs]] at [[Georgetown University]], and was a [[fellow]] at the [[Center for the Study of the Presidency]] from 2002 to 2003.<ref>Henderson, Robert E., ed. "[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/fellowspublications.html A Dialogue on the Presidency with a New Generation of Leaders: Papers of the 2002-2003 Center Fellows]". Washington, DC: [http://www.thepresidency.org CSP], 2003.</ref> Ball is a board member of the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, and is a member of several area [[Chambers of Commerce]] and business associations.<ref>"[http://www.usafa.org/about/governance/BoardCommittees.aspx Committees of the Board]". ''[http://www.usafa.org Air Force Academy Association of Graduates]''. Retrieved on [[February 26]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Greene, Mae. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18784866&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Chamber of Commerce awardees]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball initially interned in the [[White House]] [[ONDCP|Drug Policy Office]] during the term of President [[Bill Clinton]] and was then assigned to the [[11th Wing]] as a [[Aide-de-camp|protocol officer]] to the [[Secretary of the Air Force]] and the [[Air Force Chief of Staff]].<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>"I was honored to serve as Greg Ball’s mentor while he was in the U.S. Air Force. When Greg was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, I was honored to pin on his rank and commission him as a young officer. As Greg excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Captain, I was honored to watch Greg perform as an outstanding young officer. Greg Ball graduated from the Air Force Academy, served in the White House Drug Policy Office, lived on Capitol Hill, and served in the 11th Wing in our Nation’s capital working directly for four star generals in the Pentagon and throughout the National Capitol Region. Few Lieutenants are chosen for such a demanding position."–[[Colonel|Col.]] Joseph P. Green, [[United States Air Force|USAF (Ret.)]], [http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html E-Mail to Bob Fois]. [[June 6]], [[2006]].</ref> He was awarded an achievement medal for outstanding service by [[General (United States)|General]] [[John P. Jumper]] and was honorably discharged from active duty in January of [[2005]] at the rank of [[Captain (OF-2)|Captain]].<ref name="officialbio"/><ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=15827256&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=6 Town of Pawling 2005 Year in Review]". ''[http://pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 29]], [[2005]].</ref> Ball remains in the [[Individual Ready Reserve|U.S. Air Force Ready Reserve]] to this day.<ref>Benson, John. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=17343190&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Community salutes military families]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[December 20]], [[2006]].</ref>

Upon his separation from active duty, Ball returned to New York to work for [http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International], a commercial development corporation, eventually becoming an Executive Vice President in the Northeast division.<ref name="officialbio"/><ref name="exceed">"[http://www.exceedintl.com/aboutus.asp The Next Economy]". ''[http://www.exceedintl.com/ Exceed International]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> In [[2006]], Exceed proposed a $75 million urban renewal project for the village [[Brewster, New York|Brewster]] which would generate some $2 million a year in tax revenue for the town.<ref name="exceed1">"[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=16351907&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=8 Plans call for $75 million urban renewal project of village's downtown]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[March 24]], [[2006]].</ref> Village Mayor John Degnan noted that "All of the infrastructure work recently completed by defining our identity within the watershed has paid off. Brewster finds itself in a situation where people are eagerly interested in working with the village in partnership to see our village revitalized".<ref name="exceed1"/>

==Political career==

===2006 election===
{{seealso|New York's 99th assembly district#2006 election}}
[[Image:gregball1.jpg|thumb|280px|right|Greg Ball, a Vice President of Exceed International Corporation, during an economic development tour of India in 2005.<ref name="officialbio"/>]]
Following controversy involving New York State Assemblyman [[Will Stephens]], Ball announced his candidacy for State Assembly as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] and stated he would attempt to unseat the incumbent in a primary in [[2005]].<ref name="stephens1">{{

Cite news
|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161094,00.html
|publisher=''[[Associated Press]]''
|author=Wagenseil, Paul
|title=Politician Tells Voters They’re Idiots
|date=[[June 30]], [[2005]]

}}</ref> Stephens' family had held the seat nearly continuously for eighty years: his grandfather, [[D. Mallory Stephens]], represented the district from 1926 to 1952; his father, Willis Stephens Sr., held the seat from 1952 to 1982; and Stephens himself served from 1994 to 2006.<ref>"[http://politicalgraveyard.com/bio/stephens.html Index to Politicians: Stephens]". ''[http://politicalgraveyard.com The Political Graveyard]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball received over $110,000 in campaign contributions for the race.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/17/gregs-been-spending/ Greg’s been spending]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/plsql_browser/efs_summary_page?comid_in=A18887&rdate_in=15-JUL-2006&reportid_in=K&eyear_in=2006 New Yorkers on the Ball. 2006 July Periodic Report Summary Page]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> He was placed on the primary ballot by the signature of over 1800 petitioners.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/07/11/balls-in-or-at-least-his-paperwork-is/ Ball’s in or at least his paperwork is]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[July 11]], [[2006]].</ref>

At times Ball's campaign was noted for its unorthodoxy, including hiring a man in a chicken suit to follow around the incumbent after Stephens refused to debate him.<ref name="chicken">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/05/31/the-chicken-suit-has-been-mothballed-sort-of/ The chicken suit has been mothballed, sort of]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[May 31]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball again garnered attention at an event in August of 2006 where he carried trash bags to a press conference and drew attention to Stephens, who also served as the legal counsel to the town of Southeast, New York, for having accepted $9,355 from Waste Hauling CEO, convicted [[felon]] and reputed mob boss [[James Galante]], who was later awarded a 1.5 million dollar no-bid garbage contract by the town board on Stephens' recommendation.<ref name="stephens2">{{

Cite news
|url= http://ncnlocal.com/archives/archives_2006/8-23-06/topstory.htm
|publisher= ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''
|author=Barron, Sam
|title=Ball Fires at Will
|date=[[August 23]], [[2006]]

}}</ref> He was joined at this event by his eventual opponent in the general election, [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democratc]] Ken Harper.<ref name="stephens2"/> Both Ball and Harper referred to the State Legislature as "dysfunctional" during their campaigns.<ref>"[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/race/nyasm099/questions.html Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues]". ''[[League of Women Voters]]''. Retrieved [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>

On [[September 12]], [[2006]], in the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] Primary for New York's 99th District, Ball defeated Stephens in a landslide with 70.4% (5,165 votes) to 29.6% (2,176 votes) for Stephens, the lowest vote total for any incumbent running for reelection to the State Assembly that day.<ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1203 Ball Rolls]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 13]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="stephens3">{{

Cite news
|url= http://www.ny1.com/ny/Election/2006primary/index.html?page_name=assembly
|publisher=''[[NY1|NY1 News]]''
|title=Primary 2006
|date=[[September]] [[2006]]

}}</ref> Stephens claimed he had been the victim of a negative campaign, citing mailings that were distributed calling him a 'country-club liberal' and hilighting his close relationship with Assembly Speaker [[Sheldon Silver]].<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/08/10/strange-bedfellows/ Strange bedfellows]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 10]], [[2006]].</ref> However, Stephens himself drew criticism when he refused to repudiate a letter about challenger Greg Ball which falsely claimed Mr. Ball had received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Air Force.<ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/05/more_on_99th_ch.html More On 99th: Cheap Shots On Military]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[May 25]], [[2006]].</ref><ref name="five">{{Cite news
|url= http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060913/NEWS02/609130362/1020/NEWS04
|publisher=''[[The Journal News]]''
|title=Ball Defeats incumbent Stephens for GOP Line in Assembly Race
|date=September 2006}}</ref><ref>Fois, Bob. "[http://www.newscopy.org/2006/06/99th_balls_mili.html 99th: Ball's military record assailed]". ''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''. [[June 29]], [[2006]].</ref> Ball did not dispute that he ran hard for his seat, knocking on 10,000 doors prior to the primary.<ref name="nyt1"/>

Due to New York's [[electoral fusion]] system, the Assemblyman had vowed to remain in the race on the [[Conservative Party of New York|Conservative]] and [[Independence Party of New York|Independence]] lines.<ref>Wilbur, Martin. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1392 Stephens drops out of race against Ball to pursue bench]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 10]], [[2006]].</ref> Ultimately, Stephens decided to withdraw from the race altogether, instead taking a nomination for Supreme Court Justice in Queens, in order to allow Ball ballot access on the Independence and Conservative lines.<ref>{{Cite news
|url= http://www.newscopy.org/2006/09/99th_assembly_d.html
|publisher=''[http://www.newscopy.org News Copy]''
|title=99th Assembly District Race - Now the Fun
|date=[[September 14]], [[2006]]}}</ref> Although Stephens attempted to have his named removed from the ballot, Ken Harper, the Democratic nominee, sued the State Board of Elections claiming that Stephens had filed a certificate declining his nomination eight days too late.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/27/stephens-stays-off-ballot/ Stephens stays off ballot]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 27]], [[2006]].</ref> The [[New York Court of Appeals]] eventually ruled that Stephens name should remain on the ballot.<ref>"[http://www.loislaw.com/ogpc/login.htp?WSRet=12&dockey=19892277@NYCASE&OLDURL=/gpc/index.htp HARPER v. NY STATE BD. OF ELECTIONS, 34 A.D.3d 919 (3d Dept 2006) No. 501448]". ''[[New York Court of Appeals|New York Appellate Division Reports]]''. [[November 2]], [[2006]].</ref>

[[Image:gregball3.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Retired Air Force Captain Gregory R. Ball participates in the 2007 Veterans Day parade of Pawling, NY carrying the flag of the POW-MIA.<ref name="officialbio"/>]]Despite Stephens name remaining on the ballot, Ball went on to win a plurality of votes in the general election on [[November 6]], [[2006]].<ref name="election1"/><ref>Lopriore, Danny. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1576 Republican survives Democrat wave to win]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[November 22]], [[2006]].</ref> He was also buoyed by endorsements from the [[Fraternal Order of Police]], [[Putnam County, New York|Putnam County]] [[Sheriff]] [[Donald Smith]] and [[Duchess County, New York|Duchess County]] [[Sheriff]] Butch Anderson prior to the election.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/10/30/sheriffs-got-their-man/ Sherrifs got their man]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 30]], [[2006]].</ref> His upset victory earned him the title of "Newsmaker of the Year" from one local publication and he also shared a front-page cover ''[[The Journal News]]'' with fellow upset winer [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] the day after election day.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1701 Greg Ball, John Hall]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 30]], [[2006]].</ref>
{{Listen|filename=Gregball.ogg|title=Ball on the air|description=Assemblyman Greg Ball's appearance on ''[[Fair Game (radio)|Fair Game with Faith Salie]]''.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/28/ball-on-the-air/ Ball on the air]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 28]], [[2007]].</ref>|format=[[Ogg]]}}

===First term (2007- )===
Ball has stated that "since my election victory, we have made extraordinary progress by elevating the debate on tough issues like taxes, illegal immigration and dysfunction in Albany."<ref name="ruledout"/> He was sworn into office on [[January 8]], [[2007]].<ref>Kramer, Catherine. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=1851&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Democrats don’t have monopoly on reform]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[January 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The first time Ball [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA rose to speak in the Assembly chamber], he called the legislature "dysfunctional", and withstood boos from his colleagues.<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Joint Legislative Session
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAojIFQczLA
| series = [[New York State Assembly]]
| network = [http://www.senate.state.ny.us/senatehomepage.nsf/SenNetTV?OpenForm SenNet TV]
| airdate = 2007-02-07
}}</ref><ref>Gallagher, Jay. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/03/06/different-tune-from-freshman-putnam-lawmaker/ Different tune from freshman Putnam lawmaker]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[March 6]], [[2007]].</ref> He was unhappy because lawmakers voted to elect a colleague, [[Thomas DiNapoli]] as the new State Comptroller, disregarding the recommendations of a bipartisan panel appointed by [[Governor of New York|Governor]] [[Eliot Spitzer]] consisting of former state Comptrollers who suggested three separate finalists and had not found DiNapoli to be qualified for the job.<ref name="gregballtruereformer">"[http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-29551972_ITM The true reformers: The 56 state legislators who refused to support Thomas DiNapoli for comptroller constitute an honor roll]". ''[[Albany Times-Union]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Cooper, Michael. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/08/nyregion/08comptroller.html?_r=1&hp&ex=1170997200&en=f63b13cba91f4851&ei=5094&partner=homepage&oref=slogin" Legislators Pick a Comptroller, Defying Spitzer]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 8]], [[2007]].</ref> The next day, Governor Spitzer called Ball to express support for his sentiments.<ref name="eliotphone">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/02/09/eliots-on-the-phone/ Eliot's on the phone]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 9]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball stated that "It was not easy getting up as the new guy and standing up to tell a group of people what they don’t want to hear" but his speech became so popular that soon dozens of reporters began calling, he appeared on [[Fox News]], excerpts from the floor speech popped up on numerous political blogs, his campaign web site received so many visits that its server crashed, and, a [[YouTube]] video of his remarks was ranked 80th among news videos the day it was uploaded.<ref name="nyt1">Confessore, Nicholas. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/10/nyregion/10assemblyman.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&pagewanted=all Scolding Peers, Legislator Draws Notice]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 10]], [[2007]].</ref> Although the remarks were contentious, they echoed a fifty-six page study from the nonpartisan [[New York University School of Law|New York University School of Law's]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]], which referred to the legislature as "the least deliberative and most dysfunctional in the nation".<ref>Creelan, Jeremy and Moulton, Laura. "[http://brennan.3cdn.net/1f4d5e4fa546eaa9cd_fxm6iyde5.pdf The New York State Legislative Process: An evaluation and blueprint for reform]". ''[[New York University School of Law]] [[Brennan Center for Justice]]''. Retrieved on [[February 28]], [[2008]].</ref>

[[Image:gregball4.jpg|thumb|256px|right|Assemblyman Ball participated in 'greenstock', an event in Yorktown, NY to encourage the use of renewable energy sources.<ref name="greenstock">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20080212/ Fuel Prices Are Out of Control]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[February 12]], [[2008]]. Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref>]]Ball again joined Spitzer, this time calling for property tax reform, and proposed an [[Inflation-indexed bond|inflation-indexed]] cap on spending and school and [[property tax]] increases known as the "New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act" similar to the measure adopted by [[Massachusettes]] and fourteen other states.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2008/01/10/ball-on-the-governors-address/ Ball on the Governors Address]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[January 10]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Lucas, Ashley. "[http://www.legislativegazette.com/read_more.php?story=2564&searchstr=Greg%20Ball Assembly GOP hears residents on taxing issues]". ''[[Legislative Gazette]]''. [[June 18]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2364 School tax reform gains steam]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[May 30]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball has also proposed measures to cap or eliminate the [[excise tax|state sales tax on gasoline]].<ref name="greenstock"/> He has voted dozens of times against any bill that proposes tax increases, including opposition a measure to raise the Putnam County sales tax by half a percent from 3.5% to 4% that was supported by [[State Senator]] [[Vincent Leibell]], a fellow local legislator.<ref>Matthews, Cara. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/21/raging-against-the-machine/ Raging against the machine]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 21]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball was also dismayed when asked by county legislators to carry a bill to [[Albany, New York|Albany]] requesting a sales tax of 8.375%, which County Executive [[Robert Bondi]], a fellow Republican, claimed was necessary to ward off a projected 66% property tax increase.<ref name="taxcrisis1">Elan, Susan. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/24/ball-calls-putnam-budget-crisis-forum/ Ball calls Putnam budget crisis forum]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 24]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball felt that the County legislature could have eliminated more "[[Pork-barrel spending|pork]]" from the county budget.<ref name="taxcrisis1"/> Ball later joined with a [[Westchester County Board of Legislators|county legislator]] in calling on Bondi to resign, citing his "incompetence and stubborness" in proposing a budget with a 40% increase in the tax levy.<ref>Boisi, Patrick. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2882 Bondi defends 40 percent tax increase, Ball calls for his resignation]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[September 12]], [[2007]].</ref><ref name="resignnow">Anderson, Liz. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/07/ball-to-bondi-resign-now/ Ball to Bondi: Resign now]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[September 7]], [[2007]].</ref>

Ball pledged to deliver an [[Empire Zone]] to Putnam County during his campaign, and this became a reality in February of 2008.<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=73 Empire Zone comes to Putnam County]". ''[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>"[http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/PC_EZ-08Feb08.html State approves Putnam County Empire Zone]". ''[http://midhusonnews.com Mid-Hudson News]''. [[February 8]], [[2008]].</ref> Advantages of an Empire Zone include offering up to 100-percent state subsidy of a business' real estate taxes for up to 10 years, state tax credits up to $3,500 for five years for each new employee, a waiver of sales tax on certain business purchases and sales tax credits for contributions to [[501c3]] non-profit groups.<ref>Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19289190&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Empire Zone becomes reality in Putnam County]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball has also delivered dozens of grants for organizations throughout the 99th Assembly District, including the [[American Red Cross]].<ref>"[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3580 Ball provides $10,000 to American Red Cross emergency preparedness program]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="vol1iss3">"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/member_files/099/20070926a/ A Community News Letter: Pawling]", vol 1., Issue 3. ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. [[October]] [[2007]].</ref>

As ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Ball announced legislation expanding the eligibility for veterans to receive tax exemption benefits, including the exemption of real property owned by certain disabled veterans from property taxation.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> Ball also authored the bill to create a tuition remission program for veterans, offering them free tuition at both [[SUNY]] and [[CUNY]] undergraduate and graduate institutions.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A08532 Bill Summary - A08532]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Although the first bill did not make it out of committee, after Governor Spitzer called on the Assembly to pass such a measure, Ball reintroduced the legislation and has gained thirty-one cosponsors.<ref>"[http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A09701 Bill Summary - A09701]". ''[[New York State Assembly]]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> State Senator Vinnie Leibell, whose Senate district encompasses the 99th Assembly District, announced the Senate would begin working to pass a similar measure.<ref>"[http://senatorvincentleibell.com/40/news/07-03-01/making_college_education_more_affordable.aspx Making college education more affordable]". ''[http://senatorvincentleibell.com New York State Senate]''. [[March 1]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Currently, the State of New York [http://www.hesc.com Higher Education Services Corporation] only offers tuition awards of $1000 per semester for military service.<ref>"[http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/2/Veterans_Tuition_Awards Veterans Tuition Awards]". ''[http://www.hesc.com New York State Higher Education Services Corporation].'' Retrieved on [[February 25]], [[2008]].</ref>

[[Image:gregball6.jpg|thumb|235px|right|New York Governor Eliot Spitzer and Assemblyman Ball do not always see eye to eye, but have come together on several reform issues.<ref>Stone, Adam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=1729 Ball pledges Albany reform]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[December 27]], [[2006]].</ref>]]His support for pro-agricultural legislation, including creation of measures to establish a $30 million Dairy Assistance Program, as well as providing financial assistance to counties for farmland protection and for the construction of greenmarkets, among others, earned him an award from the [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau].<ref>"[http://www.nyfb.org/nyfbnews/2007/pr091107.htm New York Farm Bureau names 'Circle of Friends' in the State Legislature]". [http://www.nyfb.org/ New York Farm Bureau]. [[September 11]], [[2007]]. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball was also named as the [[National Rifle Association|New York State Rifle & Pistol Association]] "Assemblyman of the Year" for his dedication toward advocating for outdoor sports and sportsmen’s rights.<ref name="vol1iss3"/> He has also been involved in the fight to keep [[Pepsi Bottling Group]] in his district, after the company, which is [[Westchester County, New York|Westchester County's]] second-largest employer announced it was considering relocating out of his district due to the tax burden it faces.<ref>Dumas, Bob. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=3488 Officials scramble to keep Pepsi in Somers]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[January 23]], [[2008]].</ref><ref name="pepsi1">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249208?source=most_emailed Danbury trying to woo Pepsi]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>According to "[http://www.nystu.org/issues-facts.cfm Facts & Figures]" from the ''[[National Taxpayers Union|New York State Taxpayers Union]]'', New York's corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.5% on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York's rate ranks 21st highest. In 2004, New York's corporate tax collections were $106 per capita and ranked 14th highest nationally. New York also ranks 50th (worst) in the non-profit Tax Foundation's State Business Tax Climate Index. The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales and gross receipts taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on wealth, including residential and commercial property.</ref> He told reporters that "Westchester County has become a nightmare for not only business owners, but property owners, because of the tax burden", but that he was "cautiously optimistic" they would remain in their [[Somers, New York]] headquarters.<ref name="pepsi1"/>

According to ''[[The Journal News]]'', one key to Ball's success was that his campaign identified the concern local voters cared most about: illegal immigration.<ref name="west1">West, Debra. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/OPINION/708120332/1151 The Greg Ball effect: An anti-illegal alien strategy takes root and thrives]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[August 12]], [[2007]].</ref> He was joined by former [[INS]] agents in a rally protesting a proposed work shelter for illegal immigrations in the village of Brewster.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/26/just-say-no/ Just say no]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[June 26]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball made illegal immigration a focal point of his bid for office.<ref name="feet"/> In October of 2007, he strongly criticized [[Eliot_spitzer#Controversy_over_driver.27s_licenses_for_illegal_immigrants|Governor Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants]].<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/10/01/assembly-gop-takes-aim-at-spitzer-license-plan/ Assembly GOP takes aim at Spitzer license plan]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[October 1]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Barron, Sam. "[http://www.northcountynews.com/Apps/FullSize.aspx?articleid=2995 Ball strikes back, threatens to sue Governor Spitzer over drivers license policy]". ''[http://www.northcountynews.com North County News]''. [[October 3]], [[2007]].</ref> An oft-quoted line from his campaign fliers was that "Illegal Immigration is Illegal".<ref>Applebome, Peter. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/nyregion/11towns.html?n=Top/News/New%20York%20and%20Region/Columns/Our%20Towns&pagewanted=all When an Election Becomes a Forum on Immigration]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[November 11]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712130403 Assemblyman Ball discusses illegal immigration and public safety]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 13]], [[2007]].</ref> He was named "Albany's most ardent supporter of legal immigration" when he was appointed State Chairman of the national immigration reform group [http://www.statelegislatorsforlegalimmigration.com/ State Legislators for Legal Immigration].<ref>"[http://www.assemblymangball.com/BlogEntry.aspx?entryID=83 Ball Named States Chairman of National Legal Immigration Group]". ''[http://www.assemblymanball.com Ball for Assembly]''. Retrieved on [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref><ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://immigration.lohudblogs.com/2008/02/14/greg-ball-joins-national-lawmakers-against-alien-invasion/ Greg Ball joins national lawmakers against alien ‘invasion’]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 14]], [[2008]].</ref> Yet Ball declined to speak at an anti illegal-immigration forum in [[Danbury, Connecticut|Danbury]], [[Connecticut]] sponsored by [http://www.uscfile.org/ United States Citizens for Immigration Law Enforcement], calling the group's rhetoric "over the top."<ref>Homayonpour, Marietta. "[http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:W2k7P7nKUDEJ:www.newstimes.com/ci_7848096%3Fsource%25253Dmost_emailed.26978592730A3B8C7F471EACE0DA4EF2.html+site:newstimes.com+%22Immigration+Law+Enforcement%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=3&gl=us Should Danbury partner with ICE?]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/30/not-visiting-connecticut/ Not visiting Connecticut]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 30]], [[2007]].</ref>

In February of 2008, Ball hosted a summit on the [[Immigration and Nationality Act Section 287(g)]] program for law enforcement and elected officials from New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, co-hosted by co-hosted by Jim Pendergraph, U.S. [[Immigration and Customs Enforcement]] (ICE) Executive Director from the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of State and Local Coordination.<ref name="ice1"/><ref name="summit">Driscoll, Eugene. "[http://www.newstimes.com/ci_8249912?source=most_viewed N.Y. lawmaker wants ICE in jails]". ''[[Danbury News-Times]]''. [[February 13]], [[2008]].</ref> He talked at length about the measure [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE during a Fox News interview] with [[Neil Cavuto]].<ref>{{cite episode
| title = Assemblyman Ball on Neil Cavuto
| url = http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVq_9x_FNLE
| series = [[Your World with Neil Cavuto]]
| network = ''[[Fox News]]''
| airdate = 2008-01-01
}}</ref> The 287(g) partnership, which includes training on how to avoid racial profiling, allows local law enforcement officers to work as ICE agents and file immigration violation charges, so that an illegal immigrant charged with crime in would have deportation papers filed immediately.<ref name="ice2">Hughes, Jennifer. "[http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/24immigwe.html?_r=1&ref=nyregionspecial2&oref=slogin Police Seek Help in Criminal Deportation]". ''[[New York Times]]''. [[February 24]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball believes that correctional officers should receive immigration law enforcement training under the 287(g) program, and has promised to work with the ICE branch of the [[Department of Homeland Security]] by signing up counties which have their own correctional facility for the training.<ref name="ice1">Gross, Eric. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19317567&BRD=1708&PAG=461&dept_id=72445&rfi=6 Ball criticizes immigration law enforcement training for local police forces]". ''[http://www.putnamcountycourier.com Putnam County Courier]''. [[February 21]], [[2008]].</ref> Ball announced another regional summit that would be held in April of 2008.<ref>Rae, Leah. "[http://lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080210/NEWS01/802100352#pluckcomments Brewster, Suffern pursue immigration enforcement role]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 10]], [[2008]].</ref>

[[Image:gregball2.jpg|thumb|256px|right|Assemblyman Ball delivering a speech from the floor of the Assembly Chamber in October of 2007.<ref name="gregballtruereformer"/>]]He has noted that illegal immigrants are not always automatically [[deported]] despite facing criminal charges.<ref name="ice2"/> Ball has opposed similar programs enrolling local law enforcement officials in the training, stating that "most local police agencies don't have the resources or the time to dedicate themselves to immigration law enforcement" and that starting a jail house program where names of suspected illegal aliens would be screened by a federal database would be more effective.<ref name="ice1"/> Ball said that "the key in this is that you need a jail, because you can wait weeks to determine someone's immigration status and then trigger the deportation procedure."<ref name="summit"/>

Ball has worked to promote businesses that hire legal immigrant laborers, and has begun to create a database for usage on his campaign website.<ref name="hirelegally">Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/04/25/move-over-yellow-pages/ Move over, Yellow Pages]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[April 25]], [[2007]].</ref> His campaign headquarters in [[Pawling, New York]] may have been targeted over the contentious issue, and was vandalized with [[swastikas]] in October of 2006, although the person or persons responsible misspelled the word "Fascist" twice.<ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2006/11/01/definitely-a-trick/ Definitely a trick]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[November 1]], [[2006]].</ref>

The Ball campaign has also focused on promoting energy conservation, calling fuel prices "out of control" and vowing to establish tax credits for usage and production of [[alternative fuels]], establish a state energy planning board, and cut fuel costs by eliminating the state sales tax on gasoline and alternative fuels.<ref>Berg, Weston. "[http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=18225626&BRD=1707&PAG=461&dept_id=72297&rfi=8 Village Hall rally asks Congress to Step it Up]". ''[http://www.pawlingnewschronicle.com Pawling News-Chronicle]''. [[April 20]], [[2007]].</ref>

{{cquote|The fundamental reality is that with gas prices and oil import costs rising every year, we must chart a new course based on renewable, cleaner energies.|30px|25px|Assemblyman Greg Ball<ref name="greenstock"/>}}

Ball was referred to as "one of the rising stars in the Republican Party"<ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/04/could-it-be-ball-vs-hall-in-2008/ Could it be Ball vs. Hall in 2008?]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 4]], [[2007]].</ref> during speculation that he would run against freshman Congressman [[John Hall (New York)|John Hall]] in 2008, although he later ruled out a challenge against Hall.<ref name="ruledout">Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS01/712310377 Carmel assemblyman says he won't run for Congress in '08]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Risinit, Mike. "[http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071217/NEWS04/712170350 Ball may run for House seat]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 17]], [[2007]].</ref><ref>Blain, Glenn. "[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/12/31/ball-not-running-for-congress/ Ball not running for Congress]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[December 31]], [[2007]].</ref>

===Courage Cup controversy===
In January of 2007, Ball became involved in a dispute with Andrea Rodgers and Keri Ann Meslar, who ran a charity event known as the "Courage Cup." Ball founded the charity in 2004, prior to his first run for office. His former friends resisted his attempt to retake a leadership role in 2007, and Ball countered that he was the Courage Cup's rightful owner and that the two women stole his intellectual property.<ref name="polo1">Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/05/AR2007020501739.html Courage Cup Organizers Cross Polo Mallets]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C03. [[February 6]], [[2007]].</ref> Ball had been stationed at [[Bolling Air Force Base]] in [[Washington D.C.]], where he organized the first Courage Cup in 2004, raising nearly $8,000 for the [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]], [[Pennsylvania]] based [[Work to Ride ]] program and other organizations.<ref name="polo2">"[http://polhudson.lohudblogs.com/2007/06/12/polo-anyone/ Assemblyman Ball trading shots in D.C. charity polo event debate]". ''[[The Journal News]]''. [[February 2]], [[2007]]</ref>

A ''[[Washington Post]]'' article from June of 2007 implied that one of the event directors offered tickets at difference price level with proceeds going to a [[Political Action Committee]] which would later support Ball, although Ball's campaign stated it had nothing to do with the fund raising and that the destination of profits from the event were clearly stated on the purchase form. Despite this, several Courage Cup supporters were surprised that what they believed were charitable contributions were used for political purposes.<ref>Argentsinger, Amy and Roberts, Roxanne. "[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/11/AR2007061102424_pf.html Courage Cup: Ponying Up For Whose Charity?]". ''[[Washington Post]]'', C01. [[June 12]], [[2007]].</ref> Phillip Karber, a member of the board of directors for The Courage Cup who described himself as a neutral party, stated that "Ball has done a phenomenal job of getting this thing organized and getting it started. The new people did a good job of not letting it die."<ref name="polo2"/>

==Electoral history==
{{Election box begin | title=State Assembly – 99th district, 2006 – General Election<ref name="election1">"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/elections/2006/general/2006_assem.pdf NYS Board of Elections - Assembly - Vote - Nov. 7, 2006]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 22]], [[2008]].</ref>}}
{{Election box candidate with party link|
|party = Republican Party (US)
|candidate = Greg Ball
|votes = 20,956
|percentage = 50.8%
|change = Republican '''hold'''
}}
{{Election box candidate with party link|
|party = Democratic Party (US)
|candidate = Ken Harper
|votes = 17,155
|percentage = 41.4%
|change =
}}
{{Election box candidate |
|party = Independence, Conservative
|candidate = Willis Stephens, Jr. (I)
|votes = 3,228
|percentage = 7.8%
|change =
}}
{{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin | title=State Assembly, 99th district, 2006 – Primary Election<ref name="primary1">"[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/elections/2006/Primary/2006PrimaryAD.pdf September 12, 2006 Primary Vote Assembly Districts]". ''[http://www.elections.state.ny.us/ New York State Board of Elections]''. Retrieved on [[February 22]], [[2008]].</ref>}}
{{Election box candidate with party link|
|party = Republican Party (US)
|candidate = Greg Ball
|votes = 5165
|percentage = 70.4%
|change = Challenger '''pickup'''
}}
{{Election box candidate with party link|
|party = Republican Party (US)
|candidate = Willis Stephens, Jr. (I)
|votes = 2176
|percentage = 29.6%
|change =
}}
{{Election box end}}

== See also ==
{{wikiquote}}
*[[Illegal immigration to the United States]]
*[[List of members of the New York State Assembly]]
*[[New York's 99th assembly district]]

==Notes==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
[[Image:gregball5.jpg|250px|thumb|right|A snapshot from Assemblyman Ball's (bottom right) hirelegally.com website.<ref name="hirelegally"/>]]
*[http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/?ad=099 Official Homepage: Assemblyman Greg Ball, 99th District of New York]
*[http://ball4ny.com Ball for Assembly Campaign Website]
*[http://www.thepresidency.org/Publications/publications.html#Fellows Center for the Study of the Presidency Fellows Publications]
*[http://www.hirelegally.com Hirelegally.com - Ball campaign website that encourages legal hiring pratices.]
*[http://vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=MNY90112 Project VoteSmart - Assemblymember Ball]
*[http://www.smartvoter.org/2006/11/07/ny/state/vote/ball_g/ League of Women Voters Smart Voter Guide: Greg Ball]

{{start box}}
{{incumbent box|title=[[New York's 99th assembly district|New York State Assembly<br/>99th District]]|before=[[Will Stephens|Willis Stephens, Jr.]]|start=2007| }}
{{end box}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ball, Greg}}
[[Category:Members of the New York Assembly]]
[[Category:1977 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:People from Putnam County, New York]]
[[Category:United States Air Force Academy graduates]]
[[Category:Putnam County, NY politicians]]
[[Category:Hudson Valley politicians]]
[[Category:New York politicians]]
[[Category:Republicans (United States)]]
[[Category:Republican Party (United States) politicians]]
[[Category:New York Republicans]]
[[Category:United States Air Force officers]]
[[Category:Real estate and property developers]]

Greg Ball

2008-03-01T04:33:53Z

Mrprada911: Redirecting to Gregory R. Ball

#REDIRECT [[Gregory R. Ball]]