Who knew an ethics panel could attract such eclectic people?
Twelve of 13 members of the state’s new Public Integrity Commission may be attorneys — but they’re quite a mix.
Andrew Celli Jr. is a competitive bocce player who promised to bring to his commission work the “physical force and finesse” required to succeed at the Italian game that resembles bowling.
Loretta Lynch, a former federal prosecutor on Long Island, prefers to get her workouts from kick-boxing. And John Mitchell said he enjoys fly fishing and “modestly collecting” American art.
These leisure-time pursuits were revealed last month at the commission’s first public meeting when Chairman John Feerick asked his colleagues to speak about some aspect of their lives not readily known.
Daniel Alonso said his wife is a professional comedian while Daniel French said his wife is a former broadcaster.
Feerick, an expert on government ethics, elicited laughter when he said ...
James T. Madore
... one of his 11 grandchildren has difficulty identifying his voice over the telephone. “I’m constantly humbled by my grandchildren,” Feerick added.
The commission’s only non-lawyer, Virginia Apuzzo, a retired teacher and civil servant, was appointed after the meeting. But in an interview, she described herself as “an ex-nun who loves playing pinochle.”