Dear Readers:
There have been news stories and repeated commercials featuring County Executive Andrew Spano imploring people going to Westchester County Airport to use taxis and car services as there is insufficient parking in the long term lot. People have listened and been using alternative means of transportation. It has come to my attention that The Westchester County Police have started issuing tickets to taxis licensed by local municipalities within Westchester who make scheduled pick-ups at the airport if the are not part of the Westchester TLC. At present a local licenced taxi company does not have to be part of the Westchester TLC to drop-off at the airport or continue to do local business. I believe the Westchester TLC wishes to ultimatly change that also.
In full discloser, I am part owner of a taxi company licensed out of Peekskill. I have not received one of those tickets. I have been in the taxi business for twelve years and never, never has this happened. There has always been a"home - rule" respect regarding the taxis licensed by the local municipalities. In fact the Westchester TLC has concentrated their oversight on limousines leaving local taxis to their licensing jurisdictions. This was proper, a "one - size - fits - all" approach would not work, as each area has there own quirks of geography(including train access) that was better addressed locally. In Peekskill, the safety inspections which are done twice a year are more stringent than the Westchester TLC and N.Y.S. motor vehicle. Also each driver must have a yearly fingerprint and background check.
What I believe this is about is the County licenses a company to run pick - ups out of the airport. What I believe the county is trying to do, is make travelers use, with the help of police enforcement, that company, or only services licensed by the TLC. The County is trying to force local taxis into paying the TLC for a redundant licence. I was told by a county official who wishes to remain anonymous, that the county wishes to pick the pockets of local taxis because the county needs money. That the County wishes to usurp "home - rule" and take control of all taxis. People who use local taxis' would rather use that service they are comfortable with, and the county with police enforcement wishes to deny them that choice. In fact they are forcing the consumer to use a more expensive service. On top of that, a couple of local taxis companies now have the required TLC plates on a designated car. Those cars are no longer able to use the taxi stands on the streets in the localities that licence them. The rules are very specific, you must have taxi plates to use a taxi stand. This also includes the train stations. Metro-North owns the property at the train stations and there rules are also specific regarding taxi stands. The companies who have registered a car with the Westchester TLC have that luxury as they are fleet companies and so have other cars to do just local taxi pick-ups. . The owner /operators who have only one car do not. Are they now going to have to buy another car just to go to the county airport? You see now why the "one - size - fits - all" approach can not work.
I receive the following e-mail from Lawrence C. Salley the Commissioner Westchester County Department of Transportation which runs the airport.
There is absolutely no truth to the statement that taxis are fined
$1,000.00 for either dropping off or picking up passengers at the
Airport. The driver may have been fined for some other infraction of
the Taxi and Limousine Commission, but it had nothing to do with his
ability to serve customers at the Airport. I will follow up on the
contact at Hampton.
Lawrence C. Salley, AICP
Commissioner
Westchester County Department of Transportation
100 East First Street
Mount Vernon, New York 10550
Tel:(914)813-7715 * Fax:(914)813-7712
However Barbara Z. Monohan who runs the TLC has stated that local taxis must have TLC stickers make scheduled pick-ups at the airport. I have a copy of a ticket issued to a local cab to prove they are being ticketed. The question is who actually makes the rules regarding the airport? I have been told by another member of county government who wishes to remain anonymous that Barbara Z. Monohan has over stepped her authority. I have also been told by a local official who is involved in this at another level, that the courts do not prosecute these kinds of tickets against local taxis. How ever I have the court adjudication of that ticket where that driver was found guilty by that same official.
I have contacted the Mayor and City Council of Peekskill in hopes they would protect their constituents and "home - rule". Recently I met with Mayor Foster and Police Chief Tumolo and they are working to protect the local taxis. I have contacted Legislator Mike Kaplowitz who is looking at the matter. Legislator George Oros, who's district is involved, was suppose to meet with Mayor Foster about this, but is to busy running for congress and forgot. As of this writing I still have not heard from him about adding an exception to TLC code to exempt local licensed taxis. I contacted Legislator Bill Burton who passed the buck. I contacted Legislator Bill Ryan Chairman of the Board of Legislators in hopes he would help, those e-mails have been ignored. I have contacted Assemblywoman Galef to help, she said she would. The Airport is owned by the county, and you are the county, not the TLC. These taxi companies and drivers who have received these tickets, (the drivers, if they work hard enough may earn about $500.00 a week) pay taxes to the county indirectly through their rent or direly through property taxes and so have every right to access county property. They are legally licensed to conduct business. I feel if there is a rule that allows the county to promote one business over another, that rule must be changed. People have a right to choose their means of transportation. I would also like to remind these legislators that it was only five or six years ago that the county had this same fight with N.Y.C. over pick-ups at their airports and local towing. At the time the county argued that the people have a right to choose their means of transportation and towing. So I believe the county doing this to their own residents smacks of hypocrisy. I agree this is a naked grab for money and power by the county, to force taxis into a licence that is both redundant, adds nothing to the table, yet takes away more than it gives.
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A SPECIAL INVITE:
THE CIRCOLO da VINCI invites you to their twenty-sixth Annual Awards Dinner.
It is to honor David and Nancy Paganelli owners of the Traveler's Rest on Rt.100 in Ossining for their community service and the Circolo da Vinci 2008 scholarship winners. The date is 05/22/08 a Thursday. The time is 6:30PM. the place is Sinapi's Ceola Manor in Jefferson Valley, Yorktown. The tickets are only $55.00 per person with a cash bar.
This is an honorable organization honoring honorable people. Anybody who has had the pleasure of attending or having a party, or just dinner at the Traveler's Rest knows that. I urge you to attend. For additional information call 1(914)245-2316
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NEW CABLE TV SHOWS:
Former Peekskill Mayor John Testa has started his cable show "On Topic with John Testa". It airs Thursdays 9:30PM on chanel 15 in Peekskill and Cortlandt. This week he covers the hot topic of the Centenial Fire House
NEW CABLE TV SHOWS:
Domenic Volpe has started a new public access show called the Volpe Report. Viewers will be able to see this program on community Channel 15 in the Peekskill/ Cortlandt area and on Channel 74 in Yorktown. The second guest on Domenic's program are members of Peeksill's BID.
NEW CABLE TV SHOW: FROM A POST ON THE LoHud FORUM BY DR. POWELL:
The Issues with Sam Davis:
Airs on Thursdays at 9PM on Channel 74 (Public Access)in Putnam Valley and Yorktown. Sam Davis hosts. The show features a wide range of guests including artists, activists, attorneys, business owners, and politicians, talking about topics that are timely, relevant, and important. Tomorrow night is the premiere show with guest Jeff Green, local activist, business owner, and moderator of the renowned Plan Putnam blog. Jeff is also known for the work he has done for the environment and governmental integrity. The main topic of conversation for The Issues is property school taxes.
Next week’s show features local artist, musician, photographer, filmmaker John Cohen. John is a Putnam Valley character who helps to give this Town its unique flavor.Then, Domenic Volpe, businessman and former candidate will discuss involvement in local government, and impacts on business in the region.On the fourth week’s show, David Wright, Yorktown attorney and former Putnam Valley Town Attorney, discusses what local residents can do to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of local government.It is a varied and dynamic line-up, with the promise of more local issues of consequence in the weeks to come.
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A MESSAGE FROM MY FRIEND MARTY:
RE: A NEW RESTAURANT OPENS IN PEEKSKILL:
Andy:
Marty here, hope you guys are doing well. Finally our favorite, Louie the Chef(formally of Leonardo's in Mohegan Lake) is coming to Peekskill. He asked me to let you know. The opening is Tuesday 5/6 and you are invited to Trattoria Valentia at 911 South Street. Pamela & I will be there hope to see you both.
Marty
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THIS WEEKS TALKING POINTS IN THE NORTH COUNTY NEWS BY PUBLISHER APAR:
TALKING POINTS: Happy anniversary to The Amazing Bazzo
By Bruce Apar
Column names can be laughably lofty (I should know, because none was worse, or funnier, than my college newspaper column, “Latent Afterthoughts”). When the inimitable Anthony “Andy” Bazzo started penning a regular commentary for this paper (he resides on page 10), we wanted the column name to reflect Andy’s signature style: forthright, earthy, and incisive, spiced with a zesty “I am right, you are wrong” expansive charm.
Regular readers of Bazzo’s “In My Opinion” can appreciate why we did not settle on “In My Humble Opinion,” known in the world of e-bbreviation as IMHO. Just call him Mr. IMO, and smile when you say it. That’s only because he always maintains the equilibrium to smile at himself, even while he’s debating hot-button issues with a passion that could power a nuclear plant.
Humble? Andy, who can turn a phrase as deftly as he turns corners in his cab, advises, “Modesty is a false virtue.”
The reason for all this reflection is nothing less, or more, than the 1st Anniversary (next week) of his column for this newspaper. Since paper is the traditional symbol of first anniversaries, what better gift to give Andy than writing about him on this piece of paper. What a coincidence.
Less of a coincidence is how, over the past 52 weeks, he has shown an uncanny abililty to stay ahead of the curve on a variety of newsworthy nuggets.
Maybe he’s psychic – The Amazing Bazzo – or maybe just canny. Unlike cliched ivory tower columnists who keep their feet planted firmly under their desks while handing down pronouncements from Mount Olympus, Bazzo keeps his ear to the ground. His is one of three professions – along with barbers and bartenders – who can lay claim to being better public opinion pollsters than Louis Harris or John Zogby.
Here are some samples of his clairvoyance:
Bazzo foresaw a congressional effort to tax the internet, which died in committee.
Bazzo has made a refrain of his disdain for county government. He beams now that a formal group has been created by two Westchester Democrats, a supervisor and assemblywoman, that is called, “Task Force for the Elimination of County Government.”
Bazzo worried aloud about various Governor Spitzer initiatives, such as how removing the fingerprint ID requirement for Medicaid eligibility would encourage fraud (by non-citizens). The ID is no longer required. He called to our readers’ attention aborning efforts by the ex-Guv to issue licenses to illegal aliens, which was quickly defeated.
Still under discussion, however, is another thorn in Bazzo’s side that he clued us in on: the “Family Leave Act,” which would require employers to pay up to $575 a week to workers on maternity leave, whereas now the first 12 weeks are unpaid. He pointed out that such mandatory compensation might in fact impel employers to favor a male hire over a female candidate to avoid paying for the same position twice if the worker takes leave of the workplace under that act.
Bazzo also was a first mover in correctly surmising in our pages that County Legislator George Oros (R-Peekskill) would challenge U.S. Representative John Hall (D-19th District) for his Congressional seat.
Bazzo is proud for standing apart from cookie-cutter columnists on such topics as how the rush to corn-based ethanol fuel is a scam that has created high food prices and food shortages because corn subsidies have disuaded farmers from harvesting sufficient crops of wheat; and in his defiant defense of dirty campaigning, Indian Point and Scrooge.
Has all this gone to Bazzo’s head one year after he started columnizing? Here’s what he has to say: "Elected officials answer my phone calls and e-mails. People stop me on the street, at the store and when I go out to dinner to discuss my columns. I had hoped this column would be relevant. I really do not think anyone thought it would last this long. I’m surprised it has.” Do I detect a kinder, gentler, humble Bazzo? Nah. Say it ain’t so, Andy. Thanks for being you. Here’s to more of you in Year Two.
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THE ABOLITION OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT:
Please find enclosed a copy of the petition we are circulating re: abolishment of county government. We plan a follow up meeting with Connecticut officials (they don’t have county government) in late May or early June).
PAUL FEINER
Geenburgh Supervisor
TO: NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE – WESTCHESTER DELEGATION
We, the undersigned, call upon the New York State Legislature to commission an independent study to examine the State of Connecticut’s experiences in managing government services without county government. This study should explore transferring Westchester County responsibilities to local or state governments, eliminating an extra layer of government. This inquiry should in no way mitigate necessary county services.
NAME ADDRESS DATE
CC: Westchester County Executive and Westchester County Board of Legislators
TO PETITION CARRIERS: PLEASE RETURN COMPLETED PETITION TO EITHER:
Paul Feiner, Greenburgh Town Supervisor, 177 Hillside Ave., White Plains, NY 10607 OR
Joan Gronowski, City Councilmember, City Hall, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701
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A MESSAGE FOR CANDIDATE FOR STATE ASSEMBLY WILLIAM GOULDMAN:
RE: THE UNFUNDED MANDATES ASSEMBLYWOMAN GALEF VOTED FOR:
$7,118,600,000 Total Fiscal Impact Vote
Reduced reimbursement to local probation departments, with the cap on such reimbursements lowered from a 50 percent match to 46.5 percent of expenditures, subject to the availability of funds. $90,000,000 120-23
The allocation for Medicaid spending, though the local share is not outlined in the Budget.* $6,680,000,000 115-25
The allocation for Early Intervention Services, however, the local share is not detailed in the Budget. $188,000,000 115-25
Mandated Performance Based Contracting for Preventive Services (penalty). 125-16
New Requirements for Public Vessels
Performance of Duty Death Presumption for World Trade Center PFRS and ERS Members
Leave for Breast Cancer/Prostate Cancer
Binding Arbitration Extension
OSHA-Approved Training on Public Works Projects
Reporting Requirements for Municipalities on Contracts
Swimming Pool Enclosures
Free Police Reports for Identity Theft Victims
Signage for External Defibrillators
Requires HIV-Related Testing for Certain Defendants
Makes permanent the existing sales tax exemption of 75 percent of admission on "all-in" passes to amusement parks. $1,000,000 141-1
Senior Citizens' Property Tax Exemptions
Child Protective and Foster Care Services (35 percent county MOE).
Automated External Defibrillators at places of Public Assembly
Accidental Disability Presumption for WTC Rescue and Recovery Workers
Leave for Breast Cancer
Creates Sheriff Mileage Reimbursement Rate
Requires Public Employers to create Programs to Prevent Workplace Violence
Weapons Destruction Procedure required for Police Departments
Megan's Law Registration Extension - Requires Localities to Notify Vulnerable Populations
DNA Data Bank Expansion - Local Probation Officers have to track down & swab the individuals
Disaster Planning for Domestic Animals
Military Decorations are Made Tax Exempt
Sales in Veterans Home Gift Shops made Tax Exempt
Exempts sales and use taxes for the removal of waste material from a waste transfer station or construction and demolition processing facility. $3,400,000 116-16
Exempts sales and use taxes for coin-operated or fully automated car washing, waxing or vacuuming facilities. 145-0
Work Zone Safety Act - Police Presence required at all major active work zones
Medical Care for Public Employees Exposed to Transmissible Diseases
Accidental Disability Presumption for World Trade Center Rescue and Recovery Workers
Requires Localities to compile a list of Vulnerable Organizational Entities
Foil Requests to be Compiled within Reasonable Times
Increases Exemptions for Individuals with Disabilities for the Senior Citizen Rent Exemption Program
Increase Income Eligibility Limits for the Senior Citizen Rent Exemption Program
Qualifies Indoor Exercise Arenas for Training and Exercising Horses for Real Property Tax Exemption
Eliminates the Property Tax Exemption Cap for Volunteer Firefighters or Ambulance workers in Nassau County
Eliminates the Property Tax Exemption Cap for Volunteer Firefighters or Ambulance workers in Suffolk County
Eliminates the Property Tax Exemption Cap for Volunteer Firefighters or Ambulance workers in Westchester County
Provides Local Tax Exemption Procedures for New Multiple Dwellings
Increase in 18-B (indigent legal services) fees required to be paid by counties to lawyers representing indigent criminal defendants. Some offsetting funds, but does not fully cover most counties' costs. 104-45
Extends Binding Arbitration to Sheriffs
Smoking Ban
Provides a Real Property Tax Exemption for Low Income First Time Home Buyers
Expands a Real Property Tax Exemption for Non-Profits to include all their leased Property
Caps per diem reimbursement of local jails for state ready inmates and alleged parole violators at $34 (from $40), and $17 (from $20) for coram nobis prisoners. 138-6
Early Retirement Program 25/55
Grants Tier 1 and 2 Members a Pension Benefit Enhancement for out of work time
Reasonable Accommodation of Religious Practices
Exempts Disable Veterans for Special District Charges and AD Valorem Levies (Property Taxes)
Exempts Farm or Food Processor Labor Camp/Commissary Owners from property taxation
Exempts earned income of a dependent child who is a part or full time student from being considered for calculating the amount of public assistance to be granted to that individuals family
Authorizes Public Safety workers who have been exposed to blood or other bodily fluids during the course of their duties to obtain necessary care and treatment
Paid Leave for Emergency Workers
Agricultural/Horticultural Exemption Expansion
Requires Municipalities to limit the assessment of property owned or leased for non-residential water dependent activities (marinas)
Exempts vessels from payments of sales tax when sold to non-residents. $500,000 149-0
Expands the telecommunications sales tax exemption provided in the 1999-00 Budget. $15,000,000 147-0
Exempts sales and use taxes for equipment and services related to web hosting facilities. $9,000,000 147-0
Exempts sales and use taxes for equipment and services related to broadcasting over the air, through cable or via satellite. $4,700,000 147-0
Exempts sales and use taxes for all equipment used in the daily operations of a farm. $7,000,000 147-0
Exempts sales and use taxes for food and drinks sold through vending machines priced at $.75 or less per item. $5,500,000 147-0
Accelerates the exemption of sales and use taxes for small beer brewers. $1,000,000 147-0
Permanent Cost Of Living Adjustment for Public Retirees
Service Credit for Previous Public Employment
Elimination of Tier 3 and Tier 4 Contributions for Public Employees
Establishes an Alternative Formula for Determining Unemployment Benefits
Requires Criminal Background Checks for all teaching or supervisory licenses and of all prospective employees of school districts
Grants New York City Corrections Officers Additional Death Benefits
Expands the Disabled Persons' Exemption
Increases the Disabled Exemption Income Eligibility Level
Increases the Senior Citizens Real Property Tax Exemption
Exempts from sales tax food or drink purchases by a senior citizen independent housing community.
Eliminated State reimbursement to local jails for the cost of felony inmates serving definite sentences. $12,500,000 141-5
Medicaid saving efforts were advanced by the Senate and Governor, however, the Assembly Majority failed to extend existing cost containment measures prior to June 30, resulting in local government losing substantial savings. $56,600,000
Tier Reinstatement
DNA Expansion
Interim Probation Supervision Expansion
Grants the Alternative Real Property Tax Exemption to Recipients of the Expeditionary Medal
Expands Low-Income Housing in NYC
Exempts sales and use taxes for coin operated phones costing $.25 or less per call. $8,000,000 94-53
Exempts sales and use taxes for office equipment used by telecommunication providers to initiate, receive, amplify, process, retransmit and switch telephone communication. $4,000,000 94-53
Exempts sales and use taxes for textbooks purchased by full or part time college students. $24,000,000 94-53
Creates a Heart Disease Presumption for Correction Officers
Exempts sales and use taxes for private bus lines. $3,000,000 135-13
Exempts sales and use taxes for coin-operated self-service car washes. $1,500,000 135-13
Exempts sales and use taxes for self dispensed luggage carts at airports and bus stations. $1,000,000 135-13
Exempts sales and use taxes for parking service fees paid to homeowners associations. $2,700,000 135-13
Exempts sales and use taxes for admission to certain circuses. $100,000 135-13
Exempts sales and use taxes for wine used in wine tasting. $100,000 135-13
increases the Assessment on Public Work Contracts for a fund that is used solely for the enforcement of the Labor Law
Requires every Chief of Police and Sheriff to submit semi-annual reports to DCJS concerning incidents involving reported cases of missing children
Expands the 489 Exemption to include structures which were developed as part of a planned community
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FOUR MESSAGES FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN GALEF:
To the Editor: April 28, 2008
With our work on the state budget for 2008-09 complete, I am aware that our sluggish economy still challenges state and local governments to be able to continue offering the same level of services we have come to expect. I remain committed to making sure that is possible. As chairperson of the Assembly Real Property Taxation Committee, I also understand the complexities of property taxes and how much of a burden they have come to represent for our state. That is why, in 2006 I called for a Blue Ribbon Commission to conduct an in-depth study of property taxation in the state. I was very pleased that in January, Executive Order #22 set up the Commission on Property Tax Relief to serve in the same way.
This Commission will issue its first set of recommendations to the governor on May 22nd. I have invited chairman of the commission, Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, to present these recommendations to interest groups and the public on Monday, June 9th, from 7-9pm at Putnam Valley High School, 146 Peekskill Hollow Road, Putnam Valley. This is a terrific opportunity to hear first hand how the Commission came up with its recommendations and suggested next steps. The recommendations will focus on three areas: property tax caps, a circuit breaker, and mandate relief. These are all areas I have been working on in Albany.
I have also introduced a number of bills in the Assembly to provide relief. My unfunded mandate bill (A2508/S3084) requires state funding be provided for any new mandates the state imposes on local governments. My circuit breaker bill (A1575-A/S1053-A) would replace the Middle Income STAR rebate check with a tax break that takes into account the relationship of a person’s income to the property taxes he/she pays. I’ve received a lot of support for this bill from taxpayer groups as well as the Fiscal Policy Institute. My Medicaid reform bill (A5816) requires the state to take over the total funding of medical assistance for those in need, relieving the county tax burden. WICKS reform has finally been approved which allows local governments and school districts to use a single general contractor on jobs that cost up to $1.5 million, saving taxpayers money.
We have many challenges ahead of us to continue to provide a high level of service with a minimal impact on our wallets. I will continue to work hard for necessary changes.
Sincerely,
Sandy Galef,
Assemblywoman 90AD, (914) 941-1111
MESSAGE TWO:
Contact:SandraGalef (914) 941-1111
(518) 455-5348
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef “Speak Out” TV Series on Property Taxes Continues Featuring Former Mayor of Croton-on-Hudson Bob Elliott
(April 29, 2008) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef’s practical approach to the bleak economic forecast includes this interactive series of interviews with experts that offer a wide range of perspectives on the current property tax crisis facing Westchester and Putnam County. The shows, which kicked off in March, will continue to appear on cable TV through October. In May, Robert Elliott, Deputy Secretary of State for Local Governments and former Mayor of Croton discusses how school districts and municipalities can share services to cut overhead and increase efficiencies.
In June, Galef speaks with Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Jim Langlois about BOCES role in sharing services and how it might be expanded to help cut costs on a larger scale. In July, Lee Kyriacou from the Office of Real Property Services shares his perspective on how to address property tax relief. In August, “Speak Out” features Deputy County Executive of Putnam County John Tully and Village Manager of Ossining Linda Cooper who discuss consolidation of assessment and other duplicative services, as well as best practices for sharing.
“Our economy necessitates that we take an in-depth look at offering comprehensive property tax relief throughout the state,” says Galef. “I hope these shows will help my constituents understand all the different perspectives on tax relief and ways that we can start working on now to cut costs.” Galef also serves as Chairperson of the Assembly Committee on Real Property Taxation.
Tune in to Cablevision at the dates and times listed below to become part of the conversation and to gain understanding about this complex and challenging topic.
“Speak Out” with Sandy Galef airs as follows:
Ossining/Peekskill Channel 15 – Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m.,
Wappingers Falls Channel 21 and Yorktown Channel 74- Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.
“Sharing Services to Save Taxpayer Dollars” with Bob Elliott airs May 7, 14, 21 & 28.
“School District Sharing to Save Tax Dollars,” with Dr. Jim Langlois airs June 4, 11, 18 & June 25.
“Options for Property Tax Savings,” with Lee Kyriacou airs July 2, 9, 16 & 23
“County & Municipal Efficiencies to Save Tax Dollars,”
with Linda Cooper and John Tully airs 7/30, 8/6, 13 & 20,
“Roundtable on Shared Services with NYS Comptroller DiNapoli Part 1,” with panelists Thomas DiNapoli, Alfred DelBello, James Langlois and Linda Puglisi
airs 8/27, 9/3, 9/10 and 9/17,
and “Roundtable… Part 2” airs 9/24, 10/1, 10/8 & 10/15.
MESSAGE THREE:
DISTRICT OFFICE: 2 Church Street, Ossining, NY 10562
ALBANY OFFICE: Room 641, Legislative Office Building
Shared Services Forum Tackles Tough Solutions to Tax Problems
By Assemblywoman Sandy R. Galef
Last Thursday, April 11th, school district business officials, municipal leaders, municipal officials, school board trustees and local constituents were all talking together. And sharing ideas. Before a packed audience, I moderated a forum that addressed sharing services between school districts, local governments and the state in order to cut costs. New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, Westchester County Association Chairman Alfred DelBello, Putnam Northern Westchester District Superintendent Dr. James Langlois, and Cortlandt Town Supervisor Linda Puglisi joined me. Each highlighted their own involvement with shared services and discussed the potential for increasing the ability to allow for even more. At the state level we are also committed to sharing. Our recently passed budget includes $29.4 million, an increase of $5.4 million from last year’s budget, earmarked for state grants to underwrite shared services and consolidation.
Comptroller DiNapoli said that as a school board member on Long Island, he came to realize that any effort to share or consolidate services needed to be more of a bottom-up than a top-down approach that addressed real needs of local communities. He also cited distrust of government as something that works against consolidation and sharing. The Comptroller emphasized that “the time is now for a conversation on shared services,” particularly given our current fiscal challenges. He also offered his office and other state offices as the go-to place for expertise and a knowledge base to guide local governments on best practices to follow when working jointly across municipal lines.
Al DelBello, who sits on the Commission for Local Government Competitiveness and Efficiency, also mentioned the need for grass-roots efforts to effectively chip away at the layers of government that are duplicative. “Big business can’t remain competitive if Westchester County continues to be the first, second or third highest taxed county in the nation,” he said. Legislatures are not necessarily the place to start for sharing, he suggested, but local sharing can take place if historical barriers can be broken down. He commented that just because a level of government exists, doesn’t mean it has to exist for a service to be offered. “One computer in a county office could effectively assess the entire county,” stated DelBello, “…every place but government has used technology to be more productive using fewer resources. Some areas of government still require a more personalized approach, but many do not. The time is now to start consolidating back- office services across all government lines.” DelBello pointed out that New York has more taxing districts than any other state. “We need to be bold and change state law and the constitution to truly and effectively change New York,” he claimed. Better utilization of BOCES might be one way to start, DelBello suggested. Adding a tier five for new public employees that would phase out early retirement was another suggestion.
Linda Puglisi focused her remarks on the importance of getting a groundswell of community support for any shared service that represents a significant change. For example, Cortlandt does not have its own police force, but relies on county and state police for law enforcement. Under Puglisi’s leadership, Cortlandt also passed a referendum to eliminate the elected highway superintendent and replace him/her with an appointed superintendent. She was also instrumental in building a water filtration plant, when the state mandated higher standards for water. To do this, she partnered with several neighboring communities, and she did something similar for recycling. When unfunded mandates come to her, she looks for communities to share. “To gain community support for such initiatives,” she said, “you need to run it almost like a campaign.”
Jim Langlois said the time was right for: “…the grand conversation to begin. We need to sit down with state legislators, and it is critical that powerful lobby groups be part of the conversation.” He also emphasized the need to take great care when analyzing how to streamline services related to schools. “We have the best school districts in the nation here. We want to be careful not to dismantle something so great.” Langlois cited research which showed that up to 3,000 students in one school district does help with efficiencies, but once the district grows beyond that, administrative additions need to be made. BOCES currently offers school district sharing for such back office services as printing, health insurance, contract negotiations, technology, legal services, investment pooling, and more. BOCES is also self-regulated. A service cannot be offered if fewer than two member school districts demand it. Transportation management, centralized maintenance, and energy were areas Langlois suggested BOCES’ role could grow into. He mentioned that BOCES in other regions do support services beyond school districts, which could be a direction for this BOCES to go as well.
Audience concerns focused on the need for a “clearinghouse” of sorts to help disseminate information about what kind of sharing exists already, what’s available, and how to proceed. DelBello offered up the possibility of the Commission on Local Government Competitiveness and Efficiency, after it releases its recommendations, to become that sort of clearinghouse. Puglisi suggested that to entice more sharing, incentives need to be offered. Some questioned the efficiency of BOCES, or if there were better deals available to taxpayers, even if they weren’t better deals for school districts. Westchester County government suggested they offer possibilities for pooling resources, especially with information services, public works services, and purchasing (through their finance department.) Putnam County has already embarked on a study to look at sharing of assessment services among the municipalities in Putnam.
We are at a critical juncture, which I like to think of as an incredible opportunity. Together, I believe we can address our service needs, limit our costs, and increase the efficiency of local governments. At the end of the forum, I solicited suggestions from the audience in the form of a hand-out. I welcome additional input from constituents and public officials regarding sharing services and reducing costs, which you can send to me at sgalef@assembly.state.ny.us, or 2 Church Street, Ossining, NY 10562, or call my district office at (914) 941-1111.
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef represents the 90th Assembly District, which comprises the towns of Ossining, Cortlandt, Philipstown, Putnam Valley and Kent, and the City of Peekskill.
MESSAGE FOUR:
Assemblywoman Galef Invites Entrepreneurs to Small Business Forum
Aimed at Helping the Economy in Westchester and Putnam Counties
(April 30, 2008) In these tough economic times, Assemblywoman Sandy Galef offers entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn more about local resources that can help them to start up or grow a business and gain economic self-sufficiency. The forum takes place on Thursday, May 8th, 2008 from 7:30-9:30 A.M. at Cortlandt Town Hall, 1 Heady Street, Cortlandt Manor.
Panelists will discuss resources their organizations can offer to help with such topics as financial planning and business organization, how to do work with New York State, how to find financing alternatives, and more. There will also be resources and information available at booths following the discussion, with a special focus on women and minorities.
Galef will be joined by Anne Janiak, Executive Director of the Women’s Enterprise Development Center Inc., Michael Jones-Bey, Executive Director of the Division of Minority and Women Business Development for the Empire State Development Corp., Jerry Klein, CEO of Mahopac National Bank, Marjorie Finer from the Alliance of Hudson Valley Women Business Owners, Mildred Polite Smith, Compliance Officer for the New York State Comptroller’s Office, Paul Quintero, CFO and COO of ACCION, a micro finance institution, and representatives from local business support groups.
Representatives from SCORE-Counselors to America’s Small Business, an adjunct of SBA, as well as Community Capital Resources, a local Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), will also be available for questions and to explain their services.
The event is sponsored by the following organizations: Women’s Enterprise Development Center, Inc. (WEDC), Alliance of Hudson Valley Women Business Owners (A division of WEDC), Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce, Business Council of Westchester, Westchester County Association (WCA), Putnam Valley Business Association, Greater Ossining Chamber of Commerce, Cold Spring Area Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Carmel, SCORE-Counselors to America’s Small Business, an adjunct of SBA, Community Capital Resources.
For more information on the forum, contact Assemblywoman Galef at 914-941-1111, or e-mail Dana Levenberg at levenbergd@assembly.state.ny.us
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MESSAGE FROM COUNTY LEGISLATOR GEORGE OROS:
News from Oros for Congress
CONTACT:(914) 402-4709
GEORGE OROS TO MEET WITH AMERICANS FOR TAX REFORM
Republican George Oros will visit Washington tomorrow to advocate for tax reform
Peekskill, NY- Republican Congressional Candidate George Oros announced he is meeting with Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) tomorrow in Washington, DC. ATR was founded in the 1980’s by Grover Norquist at the request of President Ronald Reagan and seeks to prevent the American people from having to withstand an increase in taxes levied by the Government.
“The increasing burden of taxes is killing small businesses in America and hurting middle class families who simply can’t keep up with the excessive spending in Congress. We have to be serious about cutting taxes or things will continue to spiral out of control,” Oros stated.
As a Legislator, Oros has a proven record of cutting taxes and has been an outspoken advocate for fiscal responsibility. George Oros signed a Pledge with the Americans for Tax Reform promising not to support any new taxes, believing strongly that Washington must begin cutting taxes instead of ushering in the largest tax increase in American history as this Congress voted to do.
“I’ve fought this battle for the last 15 years and am proud to say that it is possible to cut spending. I never forget that the taxpayers fund government. This Congress has proven again and again how out of touch they are with the needs of the American people. We don’t need to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars studying flies in Paris, we need to be concerned how seniors can keep up with the cost of prescription drugs and the cost of energy,” Oros said.
In addition to his meeting with the American for Tax Reform, George Oros will be meeting with several Members of Congress to discuss his plan to return this Congressional District to the Republican Party.
George Oros is a Westchester County Legislator with over 15 years experience as a lawmaker with a proven record of cutting taxes. He is seeking the Republican nomination for Congress in New York’s 19th Congressional District.
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TWO MESSAGES FROM THE WESTCHESTER COUNTY REPUBLICANS:
News from New York Republican State Committee
For more information contact: Matthew Walter, 518-462-2601
New York State Republicans Act to Provide Gas Price Relief, NYGOP.ORG Starts E-Petition
Statement by Chairman Joseph N. Mondello, New York Republican State Committee
ALBANY, NY (04/30/2008; 1447)(readMedia)-- Republicans in New York State today took another positive step forward in our efforts to deliver real tax relief and allow more people to keep more of their hard-earned money instead of turning it back over to the government in taxes at the pump. Both the Senate and Assembly Republicans announced solid plans, and the State Party has created an online petition at www.nygop.org to give people an opportunity to voice their opposition against gas taxes.
The actions of Republicans in the State Senate and Assembly, along with Senator John McCain’s proposals at the federal level, demonstrate a responsive and accountable approach to serving the people of this state—the way government is supposed to work.
These sensible Republican plans will provide immediate relief for the problems people are facing every day, while longer-term solutions are proposed, researched and enacted.
Unfortunately, Democrats from Senator Obama down to the state level are refusing to join with Republicans to provide the help hard working overtaxed families and businesses desperately need, especially as we head into the busy summer driving season. Unfortunately, Senator Obama has flatly opposed the plan as a bad idea, even though he supported suspending the gas tax as a State Senator in Illinois.
This issue continues to underscore that the Democrats are out of touch with the everyday problems that New Yorkers and Americans face.
It’s time for the Democrats to come to the table and get things accomplished on this critical issue.
In order to make certain everyone hears the growing call of hard working New York families and businesses for gas tax relief, we are creating an online petition. I encourage everyone to make their voice heard by signing the petition at www.nygop.org.
MESSAGE TWO:
Westchester County Conservative Committee
Cordially invites you to attend a
Cocktail Reception
With
Guest Speaker
Mike Long
State Conservative Party Chairman
Thursday, May 15, 2008
6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
BOE
324 Central Park Avenue
White Plains, New York
$300 per person
RSVP/Info:
gailb927@yahoo.com
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FOUR MESSAGES FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
BALL STANDS UP FOR NY COMMUTERS, TAXPAYERS
Calls on State to Remove Its Taxes on Gasoline During Summer Months
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R – Carmel) held a press conference today in Albany to call on the State Legislature to immediately enact a comprehensive plan to embrace renewable energy technologies, expand the use of nuclear power and create an immediate plan to cut taxes on New York State motorists this summer to spur the local economies. Specifically, the plan would provide motorists with a savings of at least 32 cents per gallon on gasoline (35 cents on diesel fuel).
“The state government should not benefit from our misery. We better wake up as a state and as a nation and realize that our global enemies have us over a barrel, literally. It is within our strategic national interest to begin developing and using renewable resources and technologies for our energy consumption. If developing nations like Brazil can become energy independent and liberal nations like France can become net exporters of energy via nuclear technology, than the United States of America, the greatest nation in the world can get it’s act together and throw off the chains we bear that have been built and weighted by the powerful oil companies and all associated interests, economic and political. I have never been comfortable with the current Administration’s connection to the wealthiest of Middle Eastern oil barrens. Middle class New Yorkers are being squeezed from absolutely every angle and now our food and oil costs are presenting a double squeeze! Every New Yorker should get on the phone and send letters to their representatives at all levels because it is predicted that gasoline prices may raise to as much as $5 per gallon this summer. New Yorkers need relief from these ridiculous taxes. Corporate oil companies are pulling in record profits and so is New York State. New York’s government should not benefit from our gas tax misery!” said Ball.
New York State is the most expensive state in the Northeast to purchase motor fuels. Already the cost of gasoline in the state has exceeded $4 per gallon. This is due to, in large part, the numerous taxes that the State collects. At a minimum, Ball feels that these tax revenues should be lockboxed and utilized directly to develop alternative means of renewable energy and technologies. Ball’s plan would temporarily stop the collection of three of these taxes between Memorial and Labor Days -- the sales tax (8 cents), the motor fuel tax (8 cents) and the Petroleum Business Tax (16 cents) – for a combined savings of 32 cents per gallon.
The plan is supported by the entire Assembly Republican Conference as well as the National Federation of Independent Business, our state’s leading small business advocacy organization. The organization’s New York State Director joined Ball and the Assembly Republicans at today’s press conference and joined their call that the state immediately enacts this important tax-saving plan
MESSAGE TWO;
BALL CALLS FOR LEGISLATURE TO PASS
NYS CRIMINAL ILLEGAL ALIEN DEPORTATION & LEGAL HIRING ACT
Online Petition Now Available For Members of Public to Sign
www.OperationSecureNY.com
Assemblyman Greg Ball is our State’s leading advocate for legal immigration and legal hiring practices. As such, he has recently created an online petition calling on the State Legislature to enact his New York State Criminal Illegal Alien Deportation and Legal Hiring Act. The petition is now available through his official Operation Secure NY website.
The act, Assembly Bill 10593, would create the most comprehensive 287G Criminal Illegal Alien Deportation law in the nation. Specifically, the bill increases public safety through enactment of a 287(G) measure to give law enforcement the ability to arrest, detain and deport criminal illegal aliens convicted of crimes. The act also helps local, state and federal law enforcement work seamlessly together in regards to the growing problem of illegal alien crime. Finally, the act protects taxpayers and union workers who are currently funding $4 billion annually toward the affects of an illegal and black market economy rooted in the exploitation of illegal aliens, by requiring that all businesses that contract with the state hire their employees and laborers legally.
Ball’s legislation is currently awaiting consideration by the Assembly Codes Committee, chaired by Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol (D-North Brooklyn). “Unfortunately, in Albany oftentimes good legislation is gridlocked by the special interests. This bill should not get bogged down in the national conversation about illegal immigration – this bill focuses like a laser on criminal illegal aliens. We need the Senate to step up to the plate and adopt a 287G bill of their own, similar to my measure. In the Assembly, I am hopeful that New York residents concerned with public safety will personally call Assemblyman Lentol and demand that he show the courage to bring this bill before the full Assembly for a vote,” stated Ball.
To show Albany your support of this initiative, please visit Ball’s official website at www.OperationSecureNY.com and join the online petition today to bring this bill to a vote!
MESSAGE THREE:
Sinatra & SliwaMark your calendar!Curtis Sliwa & Frank Sinatra“Coming to Westchester!!”
What: Sinatra Soiree
Where: Traveler’s Rest Ossining NYWhen: May 28th, 6-9PM
How Much: $100pp
Pay Online: http://www.gballevents.com/
A bold spirit with a lust for life and amazing energy, Curtis Sliwa is a New Yorker in the truest and best sense of the word. Republicans throughout Westchester and Putnam County are looking forward to a great night of live Sinatra music and lively speaking by Sliwa. Our famous Sinatra impersonator, Ernie Barry, has done events all around the world and performs live in Little Italy every month. Nobody is better than Ernie Barry when it comes to Sinatra!Sliwa, born and raised in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn, recognized early on the advantages of growing up in a close knit community. Curtis spearheads countless public service programs, including food and clothing distribution for the needy and anti-drug speakers bureaus. In 1994, Curtis Sliwa founded Cyberangels, the largest online safety and educational program in cyberspace. Sliwa has also authored several books on self-defense and safety, making his vision of community service and fighting crime a reality. Known all over the world as the founder and leader of the Guardian Angels, a non-profit, all volunteer crime fighting organization with 40 chapters throughout the United States and 7 countries overseas, Curtis Sliwa's scope is vast and intensive. His worldwide connections keep him in touch with major breaking news stories across the globe and a few steps ahead of most journalists. However, Sliwa's passion for "the city that never sleeps" remains a constant fixation. Featured frequently as a guest lecturer at colleges and universities and making regular appearances on TV news-oriented programs, Sliwa's message is one of hope, combined with a healthy dose of common sense. Join hundreds of fellow Republicans at ‘Traveler’s Rest’ in Ossining NY for a great night!Space is limited.
Purchase your ticket today at http://www.gballevents.com/ !!http://www.ball4ny.com/
MESSAGE FOUR:
Calendar of Events
Annual Sinatra Soiree
Guest Speaker: Curtis Sliwa
Sponsorships Available! Call 917 681 9302
Wednesday, May 28th, 6PM Cocktails, 7PM Dinner
Traveler’s Rest, Ossining, NY 10562
Pay at the door or Online at www.GballEvents.com
Pictures from last Soiree!
http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall/AnnualNewYearSEveBash
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“New Yorkers on the Ball”
The Best Golf Outing Around
Annual Golf Tournament at Salem Golf Club
Visit Salem Golf Club in North Salem at: http://www.salemgolfclub.org/home.asp
Monday, June 16th, 11AM Registration, 1PM Shotgun, 6PM Dinner
$250 Per Player: Includes Lunch, 18 Holes, Cart, Open Bar, Raffles and Prizes, and Dinner
$100 Dinner Only: Dinner and Open Bar
Register for Golf or Dinner Only at http://www.ball4ny.com/events/golftickets.htm
Purchase an ad in the Journal at http://www.ball4ny.com/events/golfcalendar.htm
Purchase a Sponsorship at http://www.ball4ny.com/events/golfsponsor.htm
Pictures from Last Year!
http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall/GolfOutingJune2006
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Annual Country BBQ and Country Music
Live Country Music Famous David Akin Band!
Saturday, July 12th, 11AM-4PM, RT311 Patterson, NY, 12563
Gun, Archery, Bait and Tackle Vendors in Attendance
Food and Drink, Chicken, Sausage, Hamburgers, Sides
Sponsorships Available! Call 917 681 9302
$75 Per Person
NRA Membership Discount: $50PP
Send checks to “New Yorkers on the Ball” PO Box 607, Pawling, NY 12564
Pictures from Last Year!
http://picasaweb.google.com/AssemblymanBall/AmishOutlawsSteakfestAnAnnualCountryBBQ
www.Ball4NY.com
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BEACH PARTY IN PUTNAM VALLEY:
A MESSAGE FROM PUTNAM VALLEY SUPERVISOR BOB TENDY:
Good morning, everyone.
Last night's meeting of the Lake Peekskill Civic
Association dealt with a
number of issues, but the two that I will discuss
here are "skateboarders"
and the Lake Peekskill Summer Barbecue/Beach
Party.
A.
BEACH PARTY/BARBECUE: The date is Saturday,
August 2, with a rain date of
Sunday, August 3. ANYONE WHO WANTS TO HELP PLEASE
EMAIL ME OR CALL ME AT
845-526-2121. This party won't take a ton of
work, but it will take a crew
of 10 - 15 dedicated volunteers to plan and
implement.
The Plan:
FUNDING:
All $$ needed for this event will be by donation
and fund raising. If the
LPCA wants to contribute, that would be a good
thing, but certainly not a
requirement.
INSURANCE:
I believe there may not be any insurance
necessary. This isn't a private
association party, it's a district event and as
such should fall under the
town's policy. I will check on this, but that's
the early information.
FOOD/REFRESHMENTS:
Soda/water/juice--no alcoholic beverages. Several
coolers. Each drink will
be $1 dollar. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be $1
or $2? Maybe $1.50?
Hopefully we can get people to contribute a tray
of food or snacks (cookies,
cake, salad, cheese, grapes, brownies, sausage
and peppers, etc.) We can
also sell this and raise money for next year's
party.
We will have one area where a large barbecue will
be set up for hamburgers
and hot dogs. Probably not far from the dumpster.
We can have some coolers
set aside for ice cream/frozen snacks.
We will need to make simple signs for the food
stations.
ACTIVITIES:
Greased watermelon contest; cardboard boat race
(real boats made by the kids
that they race in); peanut butter and jelly
sandwich swim race; raffles,
prizes, 50/50; DJ and/or band; Skateboarding
demonstrations if possible;
maybe we could heire a magician for an hour for
the kids, a juggler, face
painter, henna tattoos, etc.
Anyone wanting to be part of this activities
committee please let me know!
TIME:
Probably from 1 pm to whenever.
Please contact me with any suggestions or offers
of assistance
B.
Skateboarding:
We have no property right now for skateboarding.
It is my opinion that we
should try to get a spot in Lake Peekskill AND in
the town park so that we
can cover both areas of town.
I sent an earlier email to some of the people who
signed their names to a
list, but I haven't had any responses yet. Please
contact me if you are
interested in moving forward with a discussion
and, hopefully,
implementation of this idea.
Thank you!
Bob Tendy
Putnm Valley Town Supervisor
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I discuss MY FIRST YEAR ANIIVERSARY. You can read my column on this topic exclusively on line(see link below)or in this weeks NORTH COUNTY NEWS on sale now. I am worth the seventy-five cents. Look for my column IN MY OPINION(page 10) in the editorial section. Better yet as this column is exclusive to the North County News on a regular basis and will be covering the local political scene, take out a subscription. Click on the North County News link below and go to Subscribe. Between this blog and The North County News you will have all the information to make a vote based on substance.
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FYI:ATOM TAXI INC. AIRPORT SERVICE:
Dear Readers:
This gives me a chance to plug my business ATOM TAXI INC. As you are planning your holiday or business or vacation travel? Instead of the headache of trying to find Airport parking, we do Airport Service to The Westchester County Airport(and ALL other airports) 24/7. Just call 1(914)879-6121 and my partner Tommy, will be glad to take you in our Airport Taxi. You will also be provided with a free copy of your local paper of record The North County News. If this is a business trip we also provide a professional receipt, just tell Tommy at the time of booking. The cost of a one-way trip to LaGuardia Airport the cost is Ninety dollars plus tolls. The cost to JFK and Newark Airports is one hundred-twenty-five dollars plus tolls. The tolls are $10.00 Westchester County Airport and Stewart cost $75.00. We do not take credit cards, sorry.
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E-MAIL ME WITH YOUR COMMENTS:
Dear Readers:
It has come to my attention the difficulty in posting a comment on this blog. If you wish to comment, e-mail me at the link posted below, putting "Manifesto Reader" in the subject matter, and I will "cut and Paste" your comments myself. If you DO NOT wish your comments posted, but just wish to communicate with me, please make your wishes known in the e-mail.
LINKS: atom_taxi@yahoo.com(as this a yahoo address make sure you put an underscore (-) between atom and taxi)
For immediate reply: atomtaxi@aol.com
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SITES TO LINK TO:
PLAN PUTNAM: planputnam@googlegroups.com/
PEEKSKILL GUARDIAN: "http://peekskillguardian.blogspot.com/
NORTH COUNTY NEWS:"http://northcountynews.com/
THE JOURNAL NEWS:http://thejournalnews.com/
PEEKSKILL DEMOCRATS:http://www.peekskilldems.com/"
PEEKSKILLREPUBLICANS:http://peekskillgop.com/
YORKTOWN SUPERVISOR DON PETERS: http://www.donpetersforyorktown.com/
PUTNAM VALLEY SUPERVISOR BOB TENDY:http://www.bobtendyforsupervisor.com/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH
ON POINT ON PEEKSKILL: Every Tuesday at 8PM channel 15 (Peekskill only)
Hosted by:DARREN RIGGER
DON PETERS AND YORKTOWN: Every Tuesday at 10PM channel 74
Hosted by: DON PETERS
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CHIFFON
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) 74 (York.)
Hosted By: Dominec Volpe
THE ISSUES: Thursdays at 9:PM chanel 74
Hosted by; Sam Davis
ON TOPIC WITH JOHN TESTA: Thursdays at 9:30PM chanel 15 (Peekskill & Cortlant)
Hosted by: John Testa
CARS & US: Fridays 10 PM chanel 15(Peek. & Cortlant) 74(York. & Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Dennis Tate
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EDITOR'S NOTE:
All articles re-printed in this blog from the North County News are with the permission of Bruce Apar Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
BAZZO 05/03/08
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