Another curious appointment has been making the rounds a bit. Yeah, I know, Steamroller, “people’s mandate”, la la la. Let’s roll back the tape a bit.

Last December, Governor elect Steamroller criticized departing Governor Pataki as he made a wave of late patronage appointments for some loyal supporters. Well, no big surprise there. Of course we all expected the new boss to be outraged as he promised to “change the way things are done”. During a little check writing visit up here, Pataki generously announced $5 million dollars to fund a private committee – The Regional Winter Sports Committee.

Pataki seemed almost reflective as he presented $5 million to the not-for-profit Lake Placid Regional Sports Committee, headed by Alexander “Sandy” Treadwell, former New York secretary of state.

Treadwell accepted the financial gift on behalf of the organization and its board, including State Sen. Betty Little; Kay Stafford, wife of former State Sen. Ronald Stafford; Serge Lussi; Ed Wiebrecht; Jay Strack; Arthur Spiegel; and Elizabeth Lack. (via Press Republican)

With all the fuss about Grannis, yesterday’s news that David Catalfamo was named Executive Director of the Sports Commission sure is odd. I don’t think there is another person who could be better defined as a Pataki loyalist.

We’re really pleased to have Dave on board,” Treadwell, a former state Secretary of State and a former chairman of the New York State Republican Committee, said. “We’ve got somebody terrific leading the organization.”

…

Catalfamo had kind words for the LPRWSC board, which, as well as Treadwell, includes Serge Lussi, Edwin Weibrecht, Kay Stafford, state Sen. Betty Little and others.

“We’ve got a great board,” Catalfamo said. “They’re all pillars of the community and they bring a lot to the table.” (read:wealthy)

Wonder what happened to Spiegel? Guess he must have been busy at one of those Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century meetings. Those guys must be in deep conversation with the Governor now that healthcare is being targeted. Real deep conversation.

Why would Spitzer have approved this appointment?

Update: So, what’s the Winter Sports Committee done with its $5 million?