SEVEN DAYS TO GO.....THINK ABOUT THESE

THE VOLPE REPORT CABLE SHOW SCHEDULE OF UPCOMMING SHOWS:

Andy--here is the info

Domenic Volpe, your host for The Volpe Report is once again inviting all to view our next two shows. For the next 3 weeks Candidate for the 90th Assembly William Gouldman is the guest and answers many questions pertaining to issues affecting the area and his race. Airtimes and dates are as follows- Peekskill/Cortlandt area -Channel 15 -Thursdays October 16, 23 and 30 at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- Channel 74 Wednesdays October 15, 22 and 29 at 6:00pm.

The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the that the next guest for Domenic's upcoming show is none other than this blog's and political commentator for the North County News- Anthony Bazzo. Come watch and listen to some back and forth commentary on many topics and get an insight into Anthony's political thinking. Airtimes and dates are as follows: Peekskill/Cortlandt area- November 6, 13 and 20 Thursdays at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- November 5, 12 and 19 Wednesdays at 6:00pm.

Domenic Volpe
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE DIVISION STREET GRILL, N. DIVISION STREET PEEKSKILL:
Jazz Legends at the Division Street Grill

Bucky Pizzarelli - Guitar
Carmen Leggio - Sax
Gerry Bruno - Bass

Saturday November 1st
Two Seatings
6:30 & 9:00

Call 739-6380 for reservations
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A MESSAGE FROM YORKTOWN COUNCILMAN NICK BIANCO:
RE: SCHOOL TAX REBATE UPDATE:

Began to hit Yorktown Saturday. On the back of the check: "By signing your endorsement certifies that you are eligible resident property owner and the school taxes are not delinguent for the property for which this rebate was issued"

This in my opinion throws out Galef's argument that the check is not for school taxes; Eligibility has to do for people who owe school taxes,rebate means taxes paid, not for taxes not paid.

Nick Bianco

THIS WAS IN THE NORTH COUNTY NEWS:
RE: SCHOLL TAX RTEBATES:

State looking at STAR rebate problems
By Mary Dempsey

As part of the school tax relief (STAR) program, the state of New York sends out about $70 million in rebate checks to residents who do not even pay school taxes.
Geoff Gloak, director of public information for the state Office of Real Property Services, confirmed that about 160,000 state residents do not pay school taxes but still receive the rebate check. That’s a total of about $70 million, Gloak said.

“A lot of places where this is happening are in rural areas where people own small houses or mobile homes,” Gloak said.

Gloak said he did not realize that 2,130 basic STAR and 672 enhanced STAR recipients in Yorktown do not pay school taxes.

“It surprises me,” he said. “The average home sales price in Westchester is $650,000 and the full value of property in Yorktown is $120,000. I’d be surprised if you could buy property in Yorktown for $120,000.”

Under-assessed properties have contributed to the problem with STAR rebate checks.
“It has been a long time since there has been a reassessment down there (Yorktown),” he said.

Many of the rebate recipients are receiving other tax exemptions in addition to STAR and that reduces their school tax burden to zero, he said.
The exact amount is unknown because the state does not have the technology to retrieve the information needed to determine the dollar figure.

The state Office of Real Property Services administers the STAR tax exemption to residents, based on limited information provided by municipal assessors. The state Office of Taxation and Finance is responsible for sending out the rebate checks, based on information provided by the Office of Real Property Services.

Residents who receive rebate checks but do not pay school taxes should not be cashing the checks, Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, D-90, said. However, the state has no system in place to track the checks that should not be cashed, she said. She added that there is writing on the backs of the checks that instructs the recipient whether or not they are entitled to the money.
The problem with the program’s system of distributing checks to residents who do not pay school taxes is something state legislators are looking into, Gloak said.

“We’re in a time of fiscal constraint and all programs are being examined,” he said. “The STAR funding is being looked at and perhaps a circuit breaker program is an option.”
Galef introduced a circuit breaker bill two years ago in the assembly. The circuit breaker program would total all of the taxes, property and income, a resident pays and provide state tax breaks, depending on income, she said.

The proposed circuit breaker plan is not a way to get rid of the STAR program but fine tuning an existing program, Galef said.

The STAR program was established to provide property tax exemptions for eligible homeowners, leading to a lower local school tax burden for property owners.
The program does not reflect its initial intent and the name should be changed to reflect its real purpose, Galef said.

“It has nothing to do with school tax,” she said. “It’s a check that residents are getting off (tax) season. It’s just really a check based on your income. We should just rename it.”
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PEEKSILL GOP:
THIS WAS IN THE NORTH COUNTY NEWS: GUEST COMMENTARY

Peekskill Faces Bleak Scenario
by John Testa

History is being made in Peekskill during 2008. Other municipalities have braced for troubling economic times by finding creative ways to ease the burden on taxpayers, but Mayor Foster and the council majority have instead increased taxes, oblivious to the challenges faced by the middle class.

In February, it became the first council in Peekskill history to change an adopted budget, turning a zero percent hold-the-line budget into a 5.3 percent increase. This vote, which violated the city charter, funded new city positions that were unnecessary in any fiscal climate, and reckless in ours.

With the recent budget proposal, the mayor and council majority will earn the dubious distinction of being the first to raise taxes twice in the same calendar year! With a proposed 12 percent increase for 2009, the total taxes they will have voted on and approved in 2008 could be a whopping 17-plus percent increase.

Looking closely, we can see that the devil is in the details.

The proposed 17 percent is really a 27 percent tax increase, masked by Foster's depleting $2 million from the city's fund balance, including $1.5 million from the water/sewer fund balance (while simultaneously increasing water rates by five percent). In February, she told this newspaper that raiding $1 million from any fund balance was "a very dangerous thing to do." Are we to believe she now thinks that drawing double that amount makes it "safe?" Our city's infrastructure is a century old, making it essential to have reserve funds on hand for emergencies.

In 10 short months, despite inheriting the most fiscally sound city in history, the council majority has created a direct threat to the continued economic health of Peekskill by reducing revenue, indiscriminate spending, and massive borrowing.

Some have said the council majority has been "spending like drunken sailors." But even drunk sailors sober up eventually. They have spent with reckless abandon, without caring who will have to pay for it. With Westchester County recently being identified as the highest-taxed county in the country, elected officials must heed the concerns of middle-class taxpayers.

But this council majority is oblivious to economic reality. They voted to spend over $200,000 on various "consultants" to "advise" them on such unnecessary matters as how to make the mayor's office three times larger, replace free public hearings on development with a process that adds no value and creating a new Web site when the city already has one. At every meeting they literally feed themselves on the taxpayer's dime and have taken votes to spend taxpayer money via e-mail, contrary to law.

Even more disturbing are its plans to buy a substantial amount of commercial property, even if it must seize it by eminent domain. They want to purchase at least seven properties in the downtown and Lower South/Louisa Street areas at an estimated cost of $11 million. But they haven't disclosed that the city will also be responsible for buying out the many small businesses they will eliminate - an action likely to require costly litigation to determine fair value.

The three Lower South Street properties (1001, 1009, and 1005), 31 Louisa St. property and the Main Street properties (1101, 1137, and 1141) pay approximately $600,000 a year in taxes, which includes $380,000 for the school district. Taxpayers will have to make up this deficiency as well. But the burden goes beyond lost tax revenue. By becoming the owner of industrial property, the city will now be responsible for environmental clean up. These additional expenses, and lost revenue, could have easily been avoided by allowing the Target/Lowe's project to move forward. Plans are also in place to purchase properties on North Water Street that will cost millions of dollars and cause more lost tax revenue.

The council majority has justified their profligacy, saying it will use "borrowed" money. Foster recently told this paper the city could borrow money "at three percent." But the current rate for a 20-year bond for AA municipalities is now 6.59 percent. Moreover, her perspective is flawed. No rational leader would borrow money to decrease revenue in this economic climate - especially when other alternatives on the table benefited taxpayers more. Foster's rejection of done deals and advocacy for escalating the city's debt service is a threat to Peekskill's solvency.

The challenges we face today were well known on Jan.1: Soaring gasoline costs, skyrocketing heating bills, declining mortgage tax revenue, softening sales tax revenue, increasing insurance costs. Rather than face these economic realities squarely and do right by taxpayers, Foster and the council majority decided to put politics above the public. The record they have created is not a good one. Rejecting viable commercial development like Target/Lowe's in favor of reducing tax revenue is pure folly. And pursuing wish lists and cosmetic improvements by raiding fund balances without any plan in place to rebuild them, and increasing the city's debt service, is a recipe for disaster.

Not in 30 years has so bleak a scenario been created for Peekskill. As the 1970s came to an end, the City of Peekskill went into a dramatic decline. The downtown lost businesses, crime was on the increase, city finances were out of control, and people moved out of town in droves. It took over two decades to climb out of that situation. If things don't change soon, it will be at least that long for the next generation to do the same.

Go Peekskill
Contact Tim Warn, (914) 737-3448
http://www.peekskillgop.com
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:

ETHICS COMMITTEE DROPS FRIVOLOUS CHARGES AGAINST GREG BALL
Assembly Ethics Committee today throws out
trumped-up charges against Assemblyman Ball

The New York State Assembly Committee on Ethics and Guidance today discarded the trumped-up and frivolous sexual harassment allegations made against Assemblyman Greg Ball (R-Patterson) by a former employee.

The committee found that a violation of the Assembly's sexual harassment/retaliation policy "was not established." It also determined that "prohibited conduct under the policy has not been established, and thus, no action is recommended."

"This sound decision by the Ethics Committee vindicates Assemblyman Ball who has been the victim of a vicious smear campaign to tarnish his reputation because he's been an outspoken and fearless advocate for taxpayers," said Adam D. Kramer, spokesman for the Republican Assembly Campaign Committee.

"This is a tremendous victory for not only Greg Ball, but also for anyone who cares about justice being served," said Kramer.

"I think this decision is the final nail in John Degnan's coffin as the failed former Brewster Mayor has waged a truly reprehensible and ultimately losing battle against Assemblyman Ball," said Kramer.

"The voters have seen through Degnan's lies and now so to have the Assembly's Ethics Committee. Chalk this up as yet another big win for Assemblyman Greg Ball," concluded Kramer.

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Hello!
If you are still on the fence, I hope these clips from a recently televised
debate will help you make your decision:

NEWSMAKERS Part I: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-o2jkiJKgs
NEWSMAKERS Part II: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8l376KtqRc

If you are a supporter, I am asking that you consider making a donation
today to help me achieve my fundraising goal.

This re-election is crucial and I look forward to returning to Albany to
fight to:

A) Reform our dysfunctional state legislature;

B) Continue my campaign to cap school property taxes, eliminate unfunded
mandates and freeze school taxes for seniors;

C) Pass a statewide autism insurance bill; and

D) Lead New York to adopt a sensible, green and renewable energy policy!

As a supporter, your contribution of $25, $50, $100 or more will help me
continue to run a strong campaign!!

You can donate online at www.SupportGreg.com
or come visit and meet with me personally at my next event.


Join Us This Fall at the

Fall Ball Bash
benefiting State Assemblyman Greg Ball

Sunday, November 2nd
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
at the Steak House 22
$95.00 per person
Children are Free

Great Fall Menu
Pumpkin & Face Painting for the Kids!!
2693 Route 22
Patterson, NY 12563
INFO : 914-471-7080

Please take a moment to make a donation online or mail in a donation today.
For more information on how to make a donation or attend any of our events
call (845) 582-0112 for more information!

Rest assured that as long as I remain in public life you will have a friend
and advocate for your goals, issues and concerns. If I can ever help you, or
be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call me on my cellular phone
(917) 681-9302.

Thank you!
Greg Ball
Member of Assembly

PS - Every donation counts, please make a donation today, no matter how big
or small!

DONATE ONLINE:
www.SupportGreg.com

NEW & UPDATED WEBSITE
www.BALL4NY.com
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR STATE ASSEMBLY WILLIAM GOULDMAN:

Peekskill Pit Fight Has Gouldman Going Home Winner
Assembly candidate debates rival in Wednesday night contest
at Paramount theater

Peekskill, New York Bill Gouldman, Assembly candidate for the 90th District, participated in a debate with 14-year incumbent assemblywoman Sandy Galef Wednesday evening at Peekskill's historic Paramount Center for the Arts. The Brown Street event was organized by the Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the North County News and lasted approximately 90 minutes.

Moderating this one-time-only debate was a representative from the League of Women Voters, who drew on questions submitted by constituents living in the 90th Assembly District as well as the editorial board of the North County News. A total of 17 questions were asked of the two participants, with two-minute time limits imposed on each response. The majority of the questions - from the Legislature's failure to pass a property tax cap to a broken Medicaid system which recently allowed 30,000 people who had fled the state to collect benefits - spoke to Galef's lack of effectiveness in the New York State Assembly since taking office in 1994. Galef was often evasive in her answers, touting vague accomplishments and attaching herself to unanimous Assembly votes as a sign of her unconvincing "experience." Gouldman, meanwhile, laid out a fresh agenda for change and established himself as a can-do antidote to the culture of corruption in Sheldon Silver's Albany.

"Sandra Galef failed to demonstrate to the Paramount's audience her record of accomplishment in the Assembly after 14 years in office," said Gouldman. "The people of the 90th District want proof, not promises. Her lackluster performance ought to indicate the true weakness of her candidacy: a career politician running on a "record" which doesn't exist. What we heard from Mrs. Galef tonight was more excuses, more evasions, and more examples of her failed leadership.

"I want to change this. That's why I'm running for office, and that's why I'm confident the Peekskill audience came away from this debate concluding I was the winner," said Gouldman.

The full, 90-minute debate will be available for viewing on the North County News Web site Friday. To watch Bill Gouldman take on incumbent Sandy Galef, please visit www.northcountynews.com and click on the "NCN-TV" icon on the right.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE WESHCHESTER GOP:

Please see how the Presidential race is tightening and consider joining us on the buses going to Pennsylvania to help Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin lock up this critical battleground state!

Details below:
AP presidential poll: Race tightens in final weeks
http://apnews.myway.com/article/20081022/D93VPI9O0.html
Westchester will be organizing buses to Pennsylvania to campaign for Senator McCain and Governor Palin on each of the following days:

Saturday, October 25 - 8:00 a.m.

Sunday, October 26 - 9:00 a.m.

Saturday, November 1 - 8:00 a.m.

Sunday, November 2 - 9:00 a.m.

Buses will depart from the Westchester GOP, 214 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains and return at around 10:00 p.m.

To confirm your participation or if you have any questions, please e-mail Chairman@WestchesterGOP.com.
Thank you for your efforts on behalf of Senator McCain and Governor Palin!

Doug Colety
Chairman
Westchester GOP
914 497-2876
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:

Dear Readers:

This week I discuss Indian Point. 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:

JOHN G. TESTA: www.johngtesta.com

ON TOPIC W/ JOHN TESTA: www.ontopicwithjt.com

CARS & US: www.doverracing.com

THE WINERY AT ST. GEORGE: http://www.TheWineryAtStGeorge.com

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: Various day and times on chanel 20(Ykt.only)
Hosted by: SUPERVISOR 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.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Dominec Volpe

THE ISSUES: Thursdays at 9:PM chanel 74 Peekskill Mondays at 8PM chanel 15
Hosted by; Sam Davis

ON TOPIC WITH JOHN TESTA: Thursdays at 9:30PM chanel 15 (Peekskill & Cortlant)
Tuesdays in Yorktown & Putnam Valley 9:30 chanel 74
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

10/27/08

THE UNALIENABLE RIGHT TO LIFE

Dear Readers:

I recently had a customer and reader of my NCN column "In My Opinion" tell me one of my problems is that I adhere too much to principal. That in these changing times one has to be more flexible. The issue involved my recent column in the NCN (Oct. 15) "Issues of Liberty" regarding the commuter tax. My principal objection "taxation without representation" was deemed antiquated. His point being that N.Y.C. is such a great place, probably the greatest Mecca since ancient Rome (which I agree totally), so what if it costs those who work there another couple of hundred dollars a year out of their pay check. It is a small price to pay. My antiquated principal is irrelevant to the present need. This probably explains why the local political parties would never let me run under their banner. I believe a person has to stand for something, as a general rule a politician stands for expediency.

I believe in the capitalist system that encourages and rewards success. I do not believe in the use of taxation as a way to encourage or discourage what any governing body deems proper choices. I believe in the equal opportunity to achieve success. I do not believe the government can and should guarantee outcome as that can only happen by limiting achievement except to those who the ruling class deems worthy of it. I believe in a compassionate government that helps those who through no fault of their own, life dumps on. I do not believe it is the responsibility of government to encourage an entitlement mentality whereby a person thinks someone else owes them a living.

Most of all I believe that our founding fathers were right when in the Declaration of Independence the first unalienable right guaranteed by our creator was life. Then followed by liberty and the pursuit of happiness. One of the reason Roe vs. Wade is tolerable to a significant number of people is that it deals with the theoretical argument of when life begins. It is because of this that I do not believe you will ever see Roe vs. Wade overturned, in spite of the scare tactics used during election cycles. A woman's right to choose under those circumstances must be protected in the country as a whole. How ever that right to choose is not infinite. In the recent "NIxmary" trial, even a mother cannot chose to end the life of a child deemed inconvenient. A jury convicted her and she will be sent to jail. The same goes for "partial birth abortion", the reason it was opposed by over 80% percent of the population is because people realized this was a viable not theoretical life being killed. The Supreme Court rightly ruled that the right to life must be protected and cannot be destroyed because the mother deems it inconvenient.

When Presidential candidate Obama was asked when a baby was entitled to constitutional protection, he answered it was above his pay grade to decide that. He answered that way because as an Illinois State Senator in March 2003 he was the only senator to speak out against the "Baby Born Alive Act", (house resolution 1082) This resolution would provide health care to a baby that survived a botched abortion and was born alive. He believed a mother should not be inconvenienced with a baby she chose to abort. This resolution passed, congress enacted a nation wide ban and the courts have upheld the ban. To believe the first unalienable right can be discarded either out of political expediency or conviction is not one I believe a President should hold.


The re-election of Bill Clinton taught me that for some people facts do not matter. Only party and the quest and retention of power without a principaled postion is more important. For me facts do matter, I wrote a while back that because a President Obama would nominate to the Supreme Court judges that felt they could by judicial fiat re-write the constitution, and on principal I do not believe in judicial oligarchy, I could not vote for him. I now add to the list that principal of life begins and constitutional protection starts when a baby is able to draw its first breath. So again I cannot vote for a President who believes that life can be discarded because it is deemed inconvenient. To open that door is something I am not willing to do.
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BREAKING NEWS UPDATE:

Monday October 20 7-8PM live debate between Congressman John Hall and his challenger Kierian Lalor on cable news RNN. It will be hosted by the NCN (managing editor Kathleen Fitzpatrick asking questions) and the Poughkepsie Journal. I urge you to tune in.

a.b.

THE VOLPE REPORT CABLE SHOW SCHEDULE OF UPCOMMING SHOWS:

Andy--here is the info

Domenic Volpe, your host for The Volpe Report is once again inviting all to view our next two shows. For the next 3 weeks Candidate for the 90th Assembly William Gouldman is the guest and answers many questions pertaining to issues affecting the area and his race. Airtimes and dates are as follows- Peekskill/Cortlandt area -Channel 15 -Thursdays October 16, 23 and 30 at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- Channel 74 Wednesdays October 15, 22 and 29 at 6:00pm.

The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the that the next guest for Domenic's upcoming show is none other than this blog's and political commentator for the North County News- Anthony Bazzo. Come watch and listen to some back and forth commentary on many topics and get an insight into Anthony's political thinking. Airtimes and dates are as follows: Peekskill/Cortlandt area- November 6, 13 and 20 Thursdays at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- November 5, 12 and 19 Wednesdays at 6:00pm.

Domenic Volpe
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A MESSAGE FROM PEEKSKILL DEMOCRATIC CHAIRMAN DARREN RIGGER:

For Comments:
Darren Rigger, 845-598-3971
Chairman, Peekskill Democratic City Committee

Results of Peekskill Voter Registration Efforts

1,883 New Registered Voters in Peekskill -
1,107 Democrats and only 209 Republicans -

The Peekskill Democratic City Committee is officially announcing the results of massive voter registration efforts. Since January 1, 2008, there are now 1,883 newly registered voters in the city of Peekskill. 1,107 registered as Democrats and only 209 choose to be members of the Republican Party. (the rest are either no-affiliation or other Parties)

“I am thrilled by these numbers”, said Peekskill Democratic City Committee Chairman Darren Rigger, “we all worked very hard and it’s good to see that the majority of voters recognize that our Democratic Candidates are the ones who can bring about the change we need right now in America.”

People had until October 11 to register to vote in the upcoming General election on November 4.
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This is the Year we can defeat Greg Ball!

Radical conservative Assemblyman Greg Ball is almost out of money and on the ropes. People have grown tired of his bullying tactics. He attacks Democrats, gays, immigrants, pro-choice groups, moderate Republicans and anyone else who disagrees with him. Well, as Barack Obama says - Enough is enough!

Congressman John Hall will appear at a fundraiser for the Southeast Democratic Committee.
http://www.actblue.com/page/southeastandhall

The event will be Saturday, October 25 at 4:00 PM at the home of Lynne Eckardt and Paul Hondorf
55 Maple Rd., Brewster, NY near Drewville Rd. Please join us!

The Southeast Democratic Committee is leading the charge against Greg Ball and 100% of it's effort will go towards stopping his re-election. The Democratic Candidate is John Degnan, a Republican former elected official who has announced that he will caucus with the Democrats in Albany if elected. Degnan, who is supported by influential Republicans including Hon. Will Stevens and Hon. Vinnie Leibell, in order to win, has to hold onto a small percentage of Republican vote and ride the Obama led Democratic wave to victory.

We can do this - but we need your help!

Both John Hall and John Degnan will be at the event - so please join us. To RSVP and make a secure online contribution please visit: http://www.actblue.com/page/southeastandhall

If you cannot attend - Please make a contribution to help this important effort.

If you have any questions please email Darren Rigger at djrigg@aol.com or call 845-598-3971.
************************************************************************************ A MESSAGE FROM JOHN TESTA:

RE: LATEST CABLE T.V. SHOW:
YOU CAN STREAM ON YOUR COMPUTER AT: http://www.ontopicwithjt.com/

Latest Show: Kieran Michael Lalor, Candidate for Congress

Kieran Lalor is a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley and presently lives in Peekskill. He is a Marine Veteran who seved in Iraq and is running for US Congress in the 19 District. Learn about the man, his ideas, and his passion for the area he hopes to represent.

A reminder that my show times for Yorktown is Tuesday's at 9:30 on channel 74. Don't forget to indicate that the show can be watched at any time via the website.

Below is link to a video I think you will find interesting:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RZVw3no2A4
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR STATE ASSEMBLY WILLIAM GOULDMAN:
Join Bill Gouldman,
the Hudson Valley’s most exciting political phenomenon,
and watch him shake up Albany!

The pleasure of your company is requested at our latest fundraising event.
Enjoy cigars, politics, and fine conversation at an exclusive Bronx location.

Seats are limited.
Please RSVP by October 20
to ensure your participation
in this special event!

Who: Bill Gouldman for Assembly
When: October 23, 7 p.m.
Where: Country Club Cigars
3838 E Tremont Ave.,
Bronx, NY

Contact - 914-582-7290 for more information
PO Box 164 • Putnam Valley, New York 10579
www.GouldmanAssemby.com
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
SENATOR SCHUMER ENDORSES ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDY GALEF FOR RE-ELECTION/ SENATOR CAMPAIGNS WITH GALEF AT CROTON-HARMON RAILROAD STATION


Today, United States Senator Charles Schumer endorsed Assemblywoman Sandy Galef for re-election to the New York State Assembly in the 90th AD. Senator Schumer joined Galef at the Croton-Harmon Railroad Station to announce his endorsement of her candidacy. The senator also campaigned with Galef as they greeted commuters coming home from work.

Senator Chuck Schumer in his endorsement said, “ Sandy Galef has shown real leadership in Albany. She was there to advocate for reform of the state budget process, to pressure for changes in helping taxpayers pay their bills, to provide essential healthcare coverage, to change criminal justice laws to protect seniors and children, and to fight for growth of alternative energy sources. Sandy demonstrates everyday that she can make things happen to better the lives of New Yorkers. It is crucial that we return Sandy to Albany to continue her important work for change.”

In accepting the endorsement from Senator Schumer, Galef commented, “It is certainly an honor to be endorsed by Senator Chuck Schumer in my re-election campaign. Senator Schumer is an elected official that garners respect for his exceptional representation on our behalf in Washington and in New York.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Schumer on all the important and difficult issues facing us nationally and in our state. These hard times call for even greater cooperation and understanding between all levels of government. Together, I have confidence that we will resolve problems stemming from the weakened economy, job losses, taxes and their impacts on the millions of people of our state”, concluded Galef.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:

BLUE RIBBON PANEL FORMS TO

INVESTIGATE VOTER FRAUD, VISA OVERSTAYS,

FROM SPITZER LICENSES

Are 23,000 New York State licenses a ‘National Security Nightmare’?

An expert panel of immigration, homeland security and motor vehicle policy experts and officials assembled today to provide testimony on 23,000 driver’s licenses issued by the State Department of Motor Vehicles last year to an ad hoc Task Force consisting of State Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson), Rensselaer County Clerk Frank Merola (R – North Greenbush) and Ed Kowalski, Director of 9/11 Families for a Secure America.


The permanent licenses were issued to foreign visitors present in the United States legally, but a temporary basis, which is a normal practice in New York State. However, these particular licenses were issued as part of ‘Phase 1’ of former Governor Eliot Spitzer’s plan to issue driver’s licenses to all residents of New York—regardless of immigration status—and in contravention to normal DMV policy, did not contain a “Temporary Visitor” stamp. This practice was later abolished, although the licenses were never recalled.

In April 2008, DMV Commissioner David Swarts proposed that the state had no legal authority to revoke the licenses, although William Film, a Deputy County Clerk in charge of a DMV Office, disagreed at today's hearing at the Metropolitan Club in Manhattan.

Jim Staudenraus, a concerned citizen who testified at the hearing and had previously taken legal action in STAUDENRAUS V. SPITZER against Spitzer’s original driver’s license plan, maintained that even if the DMV were to flag the license holders in question and require them to update their immigration status when renewing their licenses, significant voter fraud had already occurred due to the licenses and is likely to continue.

Due to the Federal Motor Voter Law, New York is required to provide individuals with the opportunity to register to vote at the same time that they apply for a driver's license or seek to renew a driver’s license.

“The right to vote is the most sacred in any Democracy. When you consider how many Americans have fought and died for that right, it is an outrage that New York State has provided non-citizens with a laminated invitation to vote fraud,” Staudenraus said.

Dr. Stephen Steinlight of the Center for Immigration Studies, felt that these licenses pose a serious threat to national security.

“The driver’s license is the mother of all validating documents, possessing one opens a myriad of doors,” Steinlight said. “It did for the 9/11 mass murderers. I'm sure we all share the nightmare it has already enabled terrorists to transport dirty bombs in suitcases in the trunks of cars all across America. It has fueled the financial meltdown. It also represents the potential for massive voter fraud in the upcoming Presidential and Congressional elections. All one needs is a driver's license.”

The panel listened to expert testimony on potential solutions to avert voter fraud and a national security nightmare caused by this administrative action taken by Governor Spitzer and the DMV which was never vetted through the legislature. Ball and Merola plan to deliver a written report on or about January 1, 2009.

“With all of the recent allegations leveled against ACORN, it makes me uneasy to hear that this kind of voter fraud potential exists here in New York because of Spitzer licenses,” Ball said. “What genuinely frightens me though, is that the DMV really has no idea if terrorists looking for 'breeder documents' knew about these Spitzer licenses and may already be embedded here to stay because of them. From this day forward, my mission is to ensure that these 23,000 licenses are scrutinized against the FBI National Database, scrubbed against the voter registration rolls, and brought into compliance with the Real ID act so that the expiration of the license will not postdate the expiration of its visa holder.”
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A MESSAGE FROM WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR GEORGE OROS:

A message from George Oros
Republican leader Westchester County Board of Legislators
(914) 734-2660 email: geooros@aol.com
October 15, 2008

Boss Ryan Makes Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
By George Oros

Like something ripped right from Ripley’s ”Believe It or Not”, I was amazed by the column penned by Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman William Ryan, published last week in The Journal News. It is encouraging to know Mr. Ryan recognizes the difficult financial conditions affecting the state. The gist of his column is that the state government should not resolve its’ budget issues by making things more difficult for the counties. That’s good as far as it goes, but one must wonder when the Boss Ryan reverts to business as usual when he calls for “responsible budgeting” and cannot find one item to cut or eliminate.

It brought back a familiar phrase my mother often used: charity begins at home. In this instance, responsible budgeting should start at our County government. Last year the Republican County Legislators proposed substantial budget cuts that would have reduced the 2008 property tax hike to one percent. Believe it or not, Ryan and the Democratic majority rejected those proposals. Believe it or not, they would not even allow proposed spending cuts to be put to a floor vote, least they be on record as against reducing County expenditures.

Last month, I applauded Governor Paterson’s plan to study potential private/public partnerships that might make state government more efficient. Since 2004, we Republicans have called on Westchester to do the same. Believe it or not, the Democratic majority has never even discussed the proposal.

The Democratic majority on the Board of Legislators spends hours debating whether restaurants should post the number of calories in a cheese burrito; hours debating whether and for how long it should be legal to let your car engine idle; and hours debating the proper way to fertilizer one’s lawn. The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board write op ed pieces calling for “reform” and for “responsible budgeting” all the while the majority leader Marty Rogowsky sojourns in Scotland; but they each refuse to spend any time to discuss dismantling unnecessary bits of county government. Among the items exempt from Democratic “reform” and from “responsible budgeting” are the Tax Commission, the Consumer Protection Board and the Human Rights Commission. These agencies are either unnecessary (the Tax Commission) or duplicate a function done at other levels of government (Consumer Protection, Human Rights Commission). The Tax Commission is really a doozy (another on of my mother’s phases). In Westchester, municipal governments assess, bill and collect all real property taxes, including the County property tax. The County sends one big bill to each municipality annually and the municipalities collect the money and the County spends (and boy does it - nearly two billion a year). For years, Republican legislators have attempted to eliminate this unnecessary office, but it is dangerous to stand between the County Executive and his ability to make a patronage appointment. Why should County taxpayers fund a Tax Commission when the office has no function other than to send 43 bills to each municipality once a year?

Westchester has achieved the dubious distinction of paying the highest property taxes in the nation, yet the democrats on the Board of Legislators and the Board Chairman they all unanimously selected and still support, focuses on telling the state government to get its’ house in order. Meanwhile, the wasteful spending at the County level remains ignored, including some recent revelations about runaway cell phone and travel expenses among some democrat legislators and staff. (NOTE: No Republican legislator or staff member has a taxpayer funded cell phone or blackberry). Instead of wasting time on matters over which the County Legislature has no control, why not take a step to eliminate legislative travel, eliminate cell phones, eliminate the County cars for non essential staff starting with Boss Ryan and his gas guzzling Buick and ending with the 24/7 security detail for the County Executive. Not to mention (but I will) the $50,000 of paid vacation Gary Kriss (Ryan’s aide de camp) has received all while under a criminal investigation and after making unwarranted purchases with your tax dollars.

.County government leaders owe it to our constituents to take a hard look in the mirror. Let’s cut the County budget five percent. Economic times this difficult make it essential that government leaders in Westchester, regardless of their political labels, work together and eliminate needless expenditures, grandiose projects and personal perks. Let’s start right here in Westchester and let’s start today.

George Oros,
Minority Leader on the Westchester County Board of Legislators
and former board chairman
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:

Dear Readers:

This week I discuss private property rights and the proposed commuter tax. 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:

JOHN G. TESTA: www.johngtesta.com

ON TOPIC W/ JOHN TESTA: www.ontopicwithjt.com

CARS & US: www.doverracing.com

THE WINERY AT ST. GEORGE: http://www.TheWineryAtStGeorge.com

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: Various day and times on chanel 20(Ykt.only)
Hosted by: SUPERVISOR 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.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Dominec Volpe

THE ISSUES: Thursdays at 9:PM chanel 74 Peekskill Mondays at 8PM chanel 15
Hosted by; Sam Davis

ON TOPIC WITH JOHN TESTA: Thursdays at 9:30PM chanel 15 (Peekskill & Cortlant)
Tuesdays in Yorktown & Putnam Valley 9:30 chanel 74
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

10/18/08

CLEANING OUT THE E-MAIL IN BOX: PART TWO

BREAKING NEWS UPDATE:

Monday October 20 7-8PM live debate between Congressman John Hall and his challenger Kierian Lalor on cable news RNN. It will be hosted by the NCN (managing editor Kathleen Fitzpatrick asking questions) and the Poughkepsie Journal. I urge you to tune in.

a.b.

THE VOLPE REPORT CABLE SHOW SCHEDULE OF UPCOMMING SHOWS:

Andy--here is the info

Domenic Volpe, your host for The Volpe Report is once again inviting all to view our next two shows. For the next 3 weeks Candidate for the 90th Assembly William Gouldman is the guest and answers many questions pertaining to issues affecting the area and his race. Airtimes and dates are as follows- Peekskill/Cortlandt area -Channel 15 -Thursdays October 16, 23 and 30 at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- Channel 74 Wednesdays October 15, 22 and 29 at 6:00pm.

The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the that the next guest for Domenic's upcoming show is none other than this blog's and political commentator for the North County News- Anthony Bazzo. Come watch and listen to some back and forth commentary on many topics and get an insight into Anthony's political thinking. Airtimes and dates are as follows: Peekskill/Cortlandt area- November 6, 13 and 20 Thursdays at 8:00pm. Yorktown/Putnam Valley area- November 5, 12 and 19 Wednesdays at 6:00pm.

Domenic Volpe
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A MESSAGE FROM YORKTOWN COUNCILMAN NICK BIANCO:
RE: SCHOOL REBATE CHECKS UPDATE:

PRESS RELEASE
October 9, 2008
STAR PROGRAM
Nicholas J. Bianco
Yorktown Councilman


It’s no wonder why the public has become so distrustful of government and its elected officials.

When I opened my September school tax bill, I noticed that instead of a 1.7 % increase. I saw a 4% tax increase.

I subsequently learned upon investigation that our Governor and state representatives approved in the 2008-2009 budget a 10% reduction in star savings.

In essences, the star rebate checks may not have the same benefit for Yorktown and Westchester residents this year, because some or all may be wiped out by a higher school tax bill.

My outrage is not that the change occurred but that no one was informed. This came as a surprise to me and I am sure all NYS residents. In fact, several towns in Westchester sent out the wrong tax bills to their residents without the reduction. That is how secretive this process was. In the six months since this change was legislated, it is only now that this is being known.

Last week Governor Patterson announced that he plans to call the legislature back into a special session after elections day to close a budget cap of 2 billion dollars. I am wondering what other surprises are we in store for.
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A MESSAGE FROM DENNIS TATE
RE: CABLE SHOW "CARS & US"

Hello Andy;
Here's some info on myself and CARS & US for you to put in your blog.

In 1993, some 15 years ago, Dennis Tate began editing and producing drag racing videos. While at the studio, and helping other public access users by directing their shows, it was suggested he do his own show. Based on the fact that his background of drag racing and automobiles and interest in being around the classic cars and race cars etc., he should produce a public access show of his own, based around that.

He began by going to the local car "cruises" and car shows and videotaping all the cars as well as interviewing the owners. Then it was back to the studio to begin the lengthy and time consuming process of editing all the raw footage and completing a 30 minute show. At the beginning the show now called 'CARS & US" began airing in the local areas of Yorktown, Somers, Cross River, Peekskill, Cortlandt and the surrounding areas where cablevision reached. As time progressed and the word of mouth spread the show became more popular. People began asking "why isn't the show aired in my area"? Little by little the franchised areas began to grow to what is now a show viewed by many thousands of people on a weekly basis. Cars & Us is undoubtedly the most well known and most popularly viewed car show on public access. It is now shown throughout the counties of Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and on Long Island the counties of Nassau & Suffolk. It can also be seen from Greenwich, CT and along the entire coastline of Connecticut to the Rhode Island border. It can also be seen in the states of Arizona and Virginia as well.

Because public access is a non-commercial TV channel, there are no paid commercials allowed, so the expenses are picked up by Dennis himself. The purchase of DVD's, labels, etc., as well as all the postage for the DVD's to be mailed is part of the cost Dennis must absorb to keep the show ongoing.

It is a hobby for Dennis and also a "labor of love" and the reward is when car owners approach him and ask to be on the show as well as all the e-mails and phone calls from the surrounding states, that keeps him going.

Should anyone be interested in "sponsoring" the show please contact him at www.draginc@aol.com or call him at 914 - 245 - 629. His website, www.doverracing.com is something you should visit as well, as there is a history of drag racing and video clips that will be of interest for all the car buffs.

Check your local cable access channel for the night and time CARS & US is aired.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR CONGRESS KIERIAN LALOR:

New Kieran Michael Lalor for Congress TV Ad

Dear Friends:

Our first TV Spot has hit the airwaves:

http://kml2008.com/contribute.htm

Please watch it and forward it to your friends.

All the best,

Kieran Michael Lalor
http://kml2008.com/
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN'S COMMITTEE:

TO: Interested Parties
FROM: Doug Holtz-Eakin, McCain-Palin Senior Policy Adviser
RE: McCain Health Care Plan Analysis
DATE: October 8, 2008

Today, Roger Feldman and his team at HSI Network, LLC released an independent assessment of John McCain's Health Reform Proposal similar to the one done on the Obama Health Reform Plan. Both studies are available to the public at www.hsinetwork.com. Please find highlights below:

· Greater Reduction In The Uninsured: The McCain Plan would provide health insurance coverage to 27.5 million uninsured Americans, more than half of the 47 million uninsured. McCain's plan covers TWO million more uninsured Americans than the Obama plan.

· Lower Health Insurance Costs For Americans: The analysis found that Americans in every major income bracket will have, on average, "a reduction in their health insurance costs resulting from the tax credit proposal." In contrast, a corresponding analysis found that Barack Obama's plan would force people to pay more for their health care by increasing mandates on existing insurance. While the McCain plan would lower costs, the Obama plan would increase make health care costs go up even more.

· Lower And Middle-Class Americans See The Greatest Benefit: In terms of income, the most dramatic increase in the percentage of Americans with health insurance would be for those with income below the 50th percentile of wage income. More than 25 million additional workers in this income range, more than a three-fold increase, would now receive health care under the McCain plan.

· Dramatic Increase In Coverage For Vulnerable Americans: According to the report, the combination of the new tax credit for health care and the Guaranteed Access Plan (GAP) would help vulnerable populations (defined as those below the 25th percentile of wage income and having a chronic illness) see a five-fold increase in health insurance coverage.

· Preserving And Improving Private Health Insurance: The analysis found that John McCain's plan will "preserve the private health insurance system." McCain's plan will also change the current incentives in the health care system that "lock people into jobs that provide health insurance" and "provide the greatest rewards for wealthy taxpayers." Millions of American families with employer sponsored coverage in all tax brackets with the same coverage as a "Members of Congress" will now come out ahead with additional funds going into a portable health savings account. Importantly, younger and healthier employees with the McCain health care tax credit will have a bigger incentive to stay with the employers. For example, a 25-year-old employee in the 25 percent tax bracket with a $2,500 tax credit could either purchase a policy in the individual market for the same amount or stay with his employer plan and receive a $5,000 policy with an additional $1,250 to invest in a portable health savings account. Why would people choose worse insurance and less money? In contrast, Barack Obama's plan will shift tens of millions of Americans into a new government-run national public plan, increases taxes on businesses and drive down wages for workers, and exacerbate the current flaws in the system rather than improve them.

The HIGHLIGHTS about the Obama Health Care Plan:

· Barack Obama's Plan Covers Less Americans Than McCain Plan: Despite the enormous price tag and burdensome mandates, the Obama plan will cover 2 million less uninsured Americans than the McCain plan which allows American families – not government bureaucrats or insurance companies – to choose coverage that best meets their unique needs.

· Barack Obama's Plan Continues The Push Toward Government-Run Healthcare: The Obama plan will create a brand new government-run health plan at the cost of $243 billion a year – a financial burden of more than $3,000 a year on American families.

· Barack Obama's Plan Will Increase Premiums For Millions of Americans: The Obama plan will move more than 82 million Americans into plans that would cost more than they currently have as "[h]igh option PPOs as well as the national public plan would become dominant health plan offerings." So premiums will increase.


· Barack Obama's Plan Will Harm Employer Coverage: The Obama plan includes a $179 billion a year employer mandate. The mandate requires employers to either provide "meaningful" coverage or pay a tax towards the government plan.[1] Faced with tough economic conditions and rising health costs this creates a clear incentive for employers to drop coverage and move families into the new government plan. A Lewin Group study which examined a similar employer mandate combined with a national plan, like the Obama plan, concluded that almost 52 million individuals would lose their private employer coverage.[2] To maintain their competitive edge, others employers will20follow - spelling the demise of the employer coverage system.


· Barack Obama's Plan Will Damage Private Coverage: The government-run plan will have a clear advantage over private insurance since it will be subsidized by American taxpayers. A recent analysis of both plans by the nonpartisan CATO Institute concluded that the Obama government-run plan will be able to "keep its premiums artificially low…since it can turn to the U.S. Treasury to cover any shortfalls" resulting in "undercutting the private market."[3] According to Wall Street Journal, the goal of the Obama plan "…like HillaryCare in the 1990s, is to displace current private coverage and switch people to the default government option."[4]
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A MESSAGE FROM JOHN TESTA:

RE: LATEST CABLE T.V. SHOW:
YOU CAN STREAM ON YOUR COMPUTER AT: http://www.ontopicwithjt.com/

Latest Show: Kieran Michael Lalor, Candidate for Congress

Kieran Lalor is a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley and presently lives in Peekskill. He is a Marine Veteran who seved in Iraq and is running for US Congress in the 19 District. Learn about the man, his ideas, and his passion for the area he hopes to represent.

A reminder that my show times for Yorktown is Tuesday's at 9:30 on channel 74. Don't forget to indicate that the show can be watched at any time via the website.

Below is link to a video I think you will find interesting:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RZVw3no2A4
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR STATE ASSEMBLY WILLIAM GOULDMAN:


In the News:

Hello Friends,

Gouldman for Assembly continues to make news! In the latest round of print and online attention, the Journal News has reported on Sheldon Silver's amended travel arrangements back and forth from Albany. You'll recall that our campaign was the first in the state to point out the Assembly speaker's taxpayer-funded layover in Washington, D.C., every time he returned to New York by plane. His airline ticket cost our state hundreds of dollars more than an Amtrak ticket for the same trip, and wasted hours more in unnecessary connecting flights! We called him out on this gaffe at last week's press conference, and now he's changing his tune:

http://lohud.com/article/20081010/NEWS05/810100413/-1/SPORTS

Our recent "editorial spotlight" at the Journal News' Westchester headquarters went great! You can watch me take on Assemblywoman Sandy Galef as we answer questions posed by the editorial board staff and the newspaper's reporters. Simply click on the link below, go to the "on demand" button on the player, and scroll to the bottom video, "90th District interview, Oct. 8, 2008":

http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=MOGULUS03

Plus, you can read their related news article about the debate here:

http://www.lohud.com/article/20081010/NEWS01/810100390/1205/NEWS0408

Finally, take a look at our front-page story in the "Your World" section today; my campaign has been spotlighted for its new-media approach to this race. We utilize television, print, and Internet platforms to get our message to you; Sandy Galef relies on her state-subsidized franking privileges:

http://www.lohud.com/article/20081010/NEWS05/810100420/1026/NEWS10

Don't forget to visit www.gouldmanassembly.com for the latest campaign updates, ways to contribute, and volunteer information. Thanks for your support!
************************
Gouldman Debuts New Web Advertisement in 90th District Race

Assembly Candidate’s “Values” Ad Highlights Galef’s True Priorities

Putnam Valley, NY – Bill Gouldman, the Republican candidate from the 90th Assembly District, released a new Web commercial today, “Values,” which contrasts the record of his opponent, incumbent Sandy Galef, to his own tough, independent stance on the issues facing New York’s families today.

Said Gouldman: “Sandy Galef represents a party of one: Sheldon Silver. The people of the 90th Assembly District can no longer afford this kind of ineffective leadership. They deserve someone who stands for our values. I am willing to be that independent voice in Albany.”

The video may currently be viewed at YouTube by visiting:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8chc3tOeeE
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
From: Campaign Sandy Galef
TO: District Press 10/12/08

Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced that her re-election bid is endorsed by Responsible New York, the Sierra Club of the Lower Hudson Region, and New York League of Conservation Voters.

In a letter from Responsible New York's founder, Tom Golisano stated that the organization was pledged "to support legislators and candidates who are best suited to enacting a broad range of goals and reforms." Galef noted that the endorsement was accompanied by a contribution to her campaign and was based on her legislative programs for sweeping reforms of the legislative process.

The League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club announced their support of Galef's candidacy for re-election to the New York State Assembly in part as a result of the annual scorecards from the Environmental Advocates of New York where Galef scored 100% or higher in the past two years.

In a letter to Galef the organization stated, "The New York League of Conservation Voters strongly urges voters in Westchester and Putnam counties to cast their votes for a cleaner, greener future by re-electing Sandy Galef".

"I am honored to have the endorsement of these three outstanding groups that care about how the legislature functions, the cost of doing business in our state, and keeping New York's environment clean for ourselves and our children", concluded Galef.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:



A Private Celebration Hosted by:
Greg Ball
State Assemblyman

An evening of Fine Food and Great Company with special presentations honoring
Republican Leaders & Elected Officials

Thursday, October 16th, 2008
7:00 - 10:00 pm

Primavera Restaurant
592 Route 22, Croton Falls, NY 10519

Payable to: “New Yorkers on the Ball”
PO Box 607 Pawling, NY 12564

$250 Per Person
$1000 Victory Sponsor
www.Ball4NY.com
*************************************
Hello!

This re-election is crucial. I write this brief note asking that you consider making a donation today to help me achieve my fundraising goal.
Your contribution of $25, $50, $100 or more will help me continue to run a strong campaign!!

You can donate online at www.SupportGreg.com

Please take a moment to make a donation online or mail in a donation today. For more information on how to make a donation or attend any of our events call (845) 582-0112 for more information!

Rest assured that as long as I remain in public life you will have a friend and advocate for your goals, issues and concerns. If I can ever help you, or be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call me on my cellular phone (917) 681-9302.

Thank you!
Greg Ball
Member of Assembly

PS - Every donation counts, please make a donation today, no matter how big or small!
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE NEW YORKER, WASHINGTON STREET, PEEKSKILL:

Dear Friends,

The Jazz Jam has returned to Peekskill!
I am happy to again be hosting this musical format in my community.

This Wednesday night Oct. 15th come here Neil Alexander on keyboard,
John Ray on bass, and Bob Meyer on drums and cymbals. We will play the
1st set followed by an open jam. The cost is just $5, with no minimums
involved.

Please make your presence known and support the music we all love.
Without your support, there is no jam.

The New Yorker Restaurant
824 Washington Ave.
Peekskill, NY 10566
914-788-6680


Directions From the South:Route 9 North to the 1st exit in Peekskill,
Welcher Ave. Take Welcher Ave. right up the hill to Washington Street
and make a left. The New Yorker is just a few blocks on the left. Its
across from Nardone's Furniture where there is plenty of parking in
the lot in front.

Below is the Google Maps link to help you find The New Yorker

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=824+washington+street,peekskill,ny+10566&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=52.107327,79.101563&ie=UTF8&z=16&iwloc=addr
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UPCOMMING BOOK SIGNING:


Hello all,

Here is the "short list" of upcoming book signings for Mephisto on Wing. To learn more about the book and author, visit:
www.pannard.com. Mephisto on Wing can be purchased through this site and will soon be available on Barnes&Noble.com

Saturday, October 25, 2008 — 1:00 — 4:00PM
Barnes & Noble, Poughkeepsie, NY
Book Signing by Antoinette Pannard

Pat Malanaphy

Amy's sister
Anne M. Vogel
Vogel Marketing + Design, LLC
P. O. Box 588
Newtown, CT 06470
P: 203. 364. 0828
F: 203. 426. 1682
www.vogelmarketing.com

Courier deliveries to:
91 Alberts Hill Road
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:

Dear Readers:

This week I discuss the "Bail Out Bill". 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:

JOHN G. TESTA: www.johngtesta.com

ON TOPIC W/ JOHN TESTA: www.ontopicwithjt.com

CARS & US: www.doverracing.com

THE WINERY AT ST. GEORGE: http://www.TheWineryAtStGeorge.com

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: Various day and times on chanel 20(Ykt.only)
Hosted by: SUPERVISOR 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.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Dominec Volpe

THE ISSUES: Thursdays at 9:PM chanel 74 Peekskill Mondays at 8PM chanel 15
Hosted by; Sam Davis

ON TOPIC WITH JOHN TESTA: Thursdays at 9:30PM chanel 15 (Peekskill & Cortlant)
Tuesdays in Yorktown & Putnam Valley 9:30 chanel 74
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

10/13/08

PREPARE TO BE SHAFTED AFTER THE ELECTIONS

Dear Readers:

Governor Patterson and our state legislative leaders have agreed to reconvene after the elections on November 18 to address the state's financial crisis. Governor Patterson and Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos have said that tax increases are not the answer. State Assembly leader Sheldon Silver has said everything is on the table. He is the only honest one. It is no coincidence that this meeting is after and not before the election. Raising taxes and cutting programs is not conductive to a candidates re-election chances. Here according to the Journal News (10/05/08) is what we are up against this year and next:

N.Y. financial crisis: By the numbers
$1.2 billion: Expected revenue shortfall for the last five months of state fiscal year.
$2 billion: Amount of state spending Paterson wants to cut between now and the end of March.
$4.6 billion: Expected gap for the '09-'10 fiscal year.
$48.2 billion: Wall Street bonuses paid this year.
$27.5 billion: Expected bonus payments in 2009.
35 percent: Expected drop in capital-gains income on Wall Street this year.
30 percent: Traditional proportion of all state tax revenue from Wall Street bonuses and capital gains in the last three months of the fiscal year.
40,000: Expected number of lost Wall Street jobs.
3 percent: The amount state agencies have already identified as spending cuts.
7 percent: Further cuts in state agencies ordered by Paterson not yet spelled out.
$24 billion: Projected state budget gap over the next three years

State funding of schools and health care, this includes payrolls, pensions and medicaid is 65% of the state budget. The paid lobbyists representing the special interests of these public sector unions are the most powerful in the state. Union leaders have already said any cuts would be considered draconian. Now, when we are talking about cuts, we are not talking zero-based cuts, we are talking rate of growth. I would find it hard to believe that our state legislators would actually spend less on these groups next year then this year. If we are lucky, they may just continue at the same level. You would then be bombarded with paid advertising saying these are ungodly cuts. In the real world you would say how can this be a cut if the money is the same? In the political world though, cutting rate of growth is giving less.

I would find it hard to believe the legislature would cut staffing, pay and benefits. The ruling class must never suffer. Even the already agreed upon 50 million dollar cuts in member item monies was only on paper. All they did was write off the monies already earmarked but not set to be spent till 2009 or later. It can take up to two years for a grant to be okayed till it is actually issued to the recipient. So a real cut in member item monies would be too much to expect.

No what they will do is raise fees and surcharges, which to the legislature is not a tax. Then they will create a new fee in the "bigger better bottle bill" and confiscate the after tax profits on the bottlers. They will tell you its the uncollected nickels, yet as taxes have already been paid on them, they are profit. They will raise taxes saying they actually promised no new taxes. This is because there is really not much we do they do not already tax. They will enact the commuter tax so they do not themselves have to earmark more money to N.Y.C. They will raise the sin taxes and gas taxes as these are considered purchases that are not necessary. If you do not like higher taxes on hard liquor, beer, wine cigarettes and gas just stop buying them, is their mentality. They will then raise fees and taxes on evil business that has the temerity to desire profit in the wake of all this suffering, so as long as you do not eat, drive or purchase goods you will not see any increases. Remember corporations do not pay taxes, you pay them in the increased costs of these good and services. Dear readers, after the election, you will be screwed, don't say I did not warn you.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE HARRISON APAR FIELD OF DREAMS FOUNDATION:

Columbus Day Golf Classic at Mohansic ... $135
A Community 'Fun Raiser' Priced Just Right!

Harrison Apar Golf Classic Bulletin
:: Sign Up Now at YACsports.com
:: Travelers Rest Is the Best!
:: Student Players Welcome!
:: Total Community Support
SIGN UP NOW!
Yorktown Athletic Club website (YACsports.com)
HarrisonApar@optonline.net
For more information ... (914) 275-6887


Since 2003, the Harrison Apar YAC PBA Fund -- founded jointly by Yorktown Athletic Club and Yorktown's Police Benevolent Association in tribute to a little person everyone still looks up to for his indomitable spirit and courage -- has raised and donated funds to help fields of dreams come true in our community by helping improve town and school recreational facilities and supporting our student athletes both on and off the field with scholarship awards and other forms of financial endowment.


.........Total Community Support
YAC, PBA, Town, School Officials Are All On Board to Move the Ball Fore-ward

........Travelers Rest Is the Best!
Attend Awards Reception + Dinner Only for $50
Less than 10 minutes from Mohansic is the destination restaurant for the area's most festive celebrations, hosted by Dave & Nancy Paganelli. The $135 fee includes golf and dinner, or you can attend the dinner only for $50. Music, memorabilia, prizes, and more surprises are in store.

.........Co-chairs for the Golf Classic include Yorktown Supervisor Don Peters (pictured), YAC President Gordon Fine, PBA officer Skip Mackay, Yorktown Schools Athletic Director Fio Nardone, Travelers Rest impresario Dave Paganelli, and prominent businessman Tony Scaglione of DiReggio Advertising & Doc James Cigars and Golf of Katonah.

.........Sponsors + Donors
Always Welcome!
Sponsor a Hole for 100 Bucks
Even our sponsorships are more affordable than usual. A donation of $100 or more, either in addition to a golfer registration or just as a non-playing donor, gets you a hole sign with your name on it. We priced the golf and the dinner as low as possible, and will rely on donations to make up the difference in our fundraising bottom line. We think that's fairer for everybody.

........Student Players Welcome!
The Family that Plays Together Helps the Community Together
We priced this community charity golf fundraiser at $135 -- and always have it on Columbus Day -- to include as many people as possible, including students. We'll even have a Longest Drive awardd for high school and student players.

........Join us Columbus Day, Monday, October 13 for a Community Charity Golf Event you'll never forget. In Harrison's own words, "Dreams do not come easily, but if you stretch enough, nothing is out of reach." Let's dream as big as Harrison did and help our kids enjoy the best recreational facilities we can provide. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
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A MESSAGE FROM JOHN TESTA:

RE: LATEST CABLE T.V. SHOW:
YOU CAN STREAM ON YOUR COMPUTER AT: http://www.ontopicwithjt.com/

Latest Show:

Kieran Michael Lalor, Candidate for Congress

Kieran Lalor is a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley and presently lives in Peekskill. He is a Marine Veteran who seved in Iraq and is running for US Congress in the 19 District. Learn about the man, his ideas, and his passion for the area he hopes to represent.

A reminder that my show times for Yorktown is Tuesday's at 9:30 on channel 74. Don't forget to indicate that the show can be watched at any time via the website.

Below is link to a video I think you will find interesting:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RZVw3no2A4
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A MESSAGE FROM YORKTOWN COUNCILMAN NICK BIANCO
RE; SCHOOL TAX REBATE UPDATE:

Just got the following information from the Town of Cortlandt Westchester County assessor. They have for this school year the following numbers that owe no school taxes.

Basic =250
Enhanced = 163

These are homes that will owe no school taxes this year and still be eligible for the middle class rebate check. By definition the enhanced will get $1300 X 163 = $211,900

The basic which is based upon income will receive 0 to $1200. The maximum potential will be 250 X $1200. = $300,000. Grand total potential for Cortlandt will be $211,900 to $511,900.

To recap we know Yorktown is over $800,000. Greenburgh is a potential of 2 million (1700) basic that owe no school taxes and now Cortlandt is a potential $511,900. In the 3 towns in Westchester looked at so far it appears that a potential total of over three million state dollars will be given out to homeowners who do not owe any school taxes.

Councilman Nick Bianco
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR STATE ASSEMBLY WILLIAM GOULDMAN:

***YOUTUBE VIDEO ADVISORY***

FOR

TODAY,

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2008

ASSEMBLY CANDIDATE BILL GOULDMAN INTRODUCES NEW TELEVISION AD

90th Assembly District candidate's campaign spot reveals how Sandy Galef has raised our taxes, highlights Gouldman's idea to cap local property taxes, cut gas taxes,
and end Albany's culture of wasteful spending

Bill Gouldman, 90th Assembly District candidate (Putnam & Westchester Counties), today released his new television commercial which is airing now on television stations across the Assembly District. The ad can be viewed on Gouldman's website, http://gouldmanassembly.com/home/ or on YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otjEBfztN5I.

Gouldman is challenging Assemblywoman Sandra Galef who has opposed a property tax cap and as Chair of the Assembly's Real Property Tax Committee, has done nothing to reduce property taxes. Just last week, the Tax Foundation ranked Westchester County 1st in the nation for highest property taxes. Gouldman is running to change and reform Albany by capping and cutting property taxes once and for all, reducing gas prices and stopping wasteful state spending.

WHO: Bill Gouldman, Candidate for State Assembly

WHEN: NOW – 24/7 on the Internet

WHERE: Bill Gouldman's Website:
http://gouldmanassembly.com/home/

Or YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otjEBfztN5I
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BILL GOULDMAN Awards Assemblywoman Sandra Galef New York's First Shelly Award For Her Contribution to Making Westchester County Number 1:
The Area With The Highest Property Taxes in America!

Today, Bill Gouldman, 90th Assembly District candidate (Putnam & Westchester Counties) granted Assemblywoman Sandra Galef the 1st ever Shelly award on behalf of the overtaxed homeowners of Westchester and all of New York.

"Last week the U. S. Census Bureau reported that Westchester County pays the highest property taxes in America. This would not be so without the contribution of Assemblywoman Sandra Galef," said Bill Gouldman who is running against Mrs. Galef in the 90th Assembly District.

"Mrs. Galef has seen this coming and has done nothing to stop it. For 5 years she has been the Chairwoman of The Assembly Committee on Real Property Taxes and has failed to bring tax cap legislation to the assembly floor for a vote. For five years she has been the gatekeeper who has short circuited the property tax relief that people desperately want and need. By following the directives of Sheldon Silver, Mrs. Galef is responsible for the property taxes that have forced 1.2 million New Yorkers out of their homes. Today we are awarding Assemblywoman Galef the first ever New York Shelly award for the role that she has played in making Westchester Number 1 when it comes to property taxes", Mr. Gouldman declared

A review of Mrs. Galef's actions during the 2008 assembly session shows the following:

* For 2 weeks in May she agreed to delay the findings of the Special State Commission for Property Tax Relief causing the assembly to adjourn without voting on its recommendation for a tax cap.

* After refusing to schedule a vote for the tax cap she brought the tax commission chairman into the district to discuss the need for it.

* On July 11th, she publically expressed her support for the tax cap

* During the special July 19th session of the state legislature she was once again unable to bring the tax cap to the assembly floor for a vote

* Since December 2007 she has refused to say when she will schedule a vote.
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A MESSAGE FROM PUTNAM VALLEY SUPERVISOR BOB TENDY:


Attached is a copy of the letter that just went out regarding George's. I also have copied it below in case you can't open the attachment.

I am sending copies to the newspapers today. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding this or any other matter. I can be reached by email at this address or town hall (btendy@putnamvalley.com).

Bob Tendy

*****
September 29, 2008


Governor David A. Patterson
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224

New York State Attorney General
Andrew M. Cuomo
Special Deputy Attorney General for Environmental Protection
Office of the Attorney General
The Capitol
Albany, NY 12224-0341

New York State Attorney General
Katherine Kennedy
Special Deputy Attorney General for Environmental Protection
Office of the Attorney General
The Capitol
Albany, NY 12224-0341

Putnam County Executive Robert J. Bondi
40 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10512

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Attn.: Peter Grannis, Commissioner
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233-1011

NYS Senator Vincent Leibell
1441 Route 22 - Suite 205
Brewster, NY 10509

Putnam County Highway Department
842 Fair Street
Carmel, NY 10512
Attn.: Harold Gary

City of Peekskill Mayor Mary F. Foster
840 Main Street
Peekskill, NY 10566

Town of Cortlandt
Supervisor Linda D. Puglisi
One Heady Street
Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567

Putnam County Legislator Sam Oliverio
40 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10512

NYS Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
2 Church Street
Ossining, NY 10562


Re: 2 Peekskill Hollow Road
George’s Super Service


Ladies and Gentlemen:


I wrote to you in regard to the subject property in a letter dated June 27, 2008 (copy enclosed).

This follow up letter is being sent as an update. It is also being sent so that some important issues can be raised and, hopefully, questions can be answered. For the background to this issue, please refer to my letter of June 27, 2008.

UPDATE:

The Town of Putnam Valley passed an “Unsafe Building Resolution” on May 21, 2008. This gave the town authority to take whatever measures were necessary to a) safeguard the drinking water of the City of Peekskill; b) prevent any possible flooding of the Oregon Corners Business District.

On August 13, 2008 the Town Board authorized me to secure funding (via bond resolution, copy enclosed) for a project that would rebuild the cement retaining wall at the subject property. We requested proposals, stating that time was of the essence. As a result, a proposal was received and accepted to do all necessary work to repair the wall and safeguard the environmental quality of the Peekskill Hollowbrook and the City of Peekskill’s drinking water supply.

The work will be completed for an amount of $218,000 dollars. A special assessment will be placed on the subject property.

The work is currently underway and should be finished by the end of September.

Accordingly, the Town of Putnam Valley has taken whatever actions it could in order to prevent any potential environmental emergency or disaster. My responsibility was to act in accordance with all of the Town of Putnam Valley’s obligations to its residents and its neighboring communities; this necessitated taxing our residents $218,000 dollars. We will do all we can to recoup this money, and I am confident this will occur.

ISSUES/QUESTIONS

In the past few months, as a result of this project, a few issues have come up and facts have been made known to me which I find disturbing, and I do have questions about them.

The issues involve a) the DEC’s lack of enforcement regarding the subject property, and b) The County of Putnam not foreclosing on the subject property: The owner has is in arrears on taxes for 13 years.

DEC Non-Enforcement of Court Orders

Enclosed is a copy of a 2003 case In the matter of Alleged Violations…by Valley Corners Realty, Respondent (Case No. R#-601289).

The Case involves the property at 2 Peekskill Hollow Road (George’s Super Service), which is the property I have been discussing in my letters.

The Order, issued more than five years ago (August 25, 2003), makes findings which actually refer back to a consent order dating back almost eight years ago (November 10, 2000).

The last few pages of the order list the Findings of Fact. The owner of the property signed a consent order which in 2000 which required him to a) remove all underground storage tanks (they are within a few feet of the Peekskill Hollow Brook; b) to submit a closure report; c) to pay a civil penalty. The owner of the property did not comply with the order, yet no measures were taken against him.

Three years later, In 2003, the DEC went back to the Administrative Law Judge requesting an Order against the property owner for violating the consent order and for judgment. The DEC was authorized to assess a penalty of up to $25,000 dollars per day and injunctive relief.

Upon information and belief, five years later, the property owner has still not complied, yet, upon information and belief, the DEC has taken no action against him.[1]

There are six underground tanks which are within a few feet of the Peekskill Hollow Brook. They are a danger to the stream. My question is this: why hasn’t there been any follow up on this matter? If a property owner refuses to comply with a consent order obtained by the DEC, and a subsequent court order obtained by the DEC, what is the next step for the DEC? It seems unlikely that the next step would be to do nothing for five years. Surely, there are powers granted the DEC in such circumstances.[2] I think it is important for the DEC to follow up on this matter and put an end to a problem that will only get worse with time.

Foreclosure by County

The owner of the property has not paid his taxes since 1995. He currently owes the County over $286,000 dollars. Adding to that amount the $218,000 for the work on the retaining wall, the owner owes the Putnam County taxpayer over one half million dollars.


Presumably, the County does not want to foreclose on the property because they fear that there may be soil contamination as a result of the underground petroleum storage tanks. (There is no proof of contamination.)

I submit that this is not an acceptable position. A terrible precedent would be set if, in order to avoid paying taxes, a property owner need only create a potential environmental problem on his or her property. The fact is that the Putnam County taxpayer has been paying the taxes on this property for several years, and the owner has been permitted to operate a business and reap the economic benefit from it.

In sum, the owner of the property has ignored two court orders regarding environmental violations and nothing has been done about it. He has annually fallen further and further into tax arrears, and nothing has been done about it.

The residents of Putnam Valley, and this includes me, are bewildered by this state of affairs. The Town of Putnam Valley has done what it was obligated to do. I believe it is incumbent on others to do the same.

If anyone would like to discuss this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at 845-526-2121 (office) or 845-222-0980 (cell phone).

Very truly yours,


Robert Tendy
Town of Putnam Valley Supervisor
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UPCOMMING EVENTS AT TWELVE GRAPES N. DIVISION STRET PEEKSKILL:

Wed, Oct 8, 8:45-11:30
"Reds, Whites & the Blues"
Blues Jam, led by Gary Schwartz & friends.

Thu, Oct 9, 8:30-11:30
3 Ton Jack

Special birthday extravaganza for 12 Grapes' bartenders
Amanda & Jessica. Come join the fun!

Fri, Oct 10, 9:30-12:30
A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That
(w/Tommy Dabbs)

"A Little Bit of This..." performs R&B, Motown and other classics
from the '50s through the '70s. A Peekskill favorite.

Sat, Oct 11, 9:30-12:30
Gil Parris, Grammy Nominated Guitarist

On Sept 28, Gil Parris & his band opened for B.B. King at The Paramount. Join us as we welcome Gil to 12 Grapes for the first of what we know will be many memorable performances.

myspace.com/gilparris

Sun, Oct 12, 7:00-10:00
Singer/Songwriter Showcase
Four acoustic soloists perform alternating sets in their individual styles.

Monday, Oct 13, 8:00-10:00
The Westchester Swing Band
Always a special night. 12 Grapes opens at 6PM.
NEW: $5 Cover... goes straight to the band.

Check out 12grapes.com to see our lunch, dinner and brunch menus as well as our wine lists. You can view our weekly calendar of events and click on our photo gallery to see what's been happening at 12 Grapes each week.

Sincerely,
Rich & Jeannie Credidio
12 Grapes Music & Wine Bar
12 North Division Street, Peekskill, NY
(914) 737-6624
12grapes.com
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A MESSAGE FROM WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR GEORGE OROS

Westchester Could Benefit from Private/Public Partnerships

Oros renews call of past four years to empower spending cut panel from private sector; lauds Governor’s lead in establishing a panel

Minority Leader George Oros said Westchester County should follow the lead of Governor David Paterson in establishing a blue ribbon panel to study potential private/public partnerships and how to make county government run more efficiently.

Oros made a similar proposal first in 2004 (and again with subsequent budgets) where he envisioned topnotch individuals from academics and business putting their minds together and making legally binding recommendations to the county government on eliminating overlap, duplication and inefficiency.

“It’s too bad County Executive Spano doesn’t have the vision or desire to think outside the box to benefit taxpayers as the Governor seems to have,” Oros said. “With Westchester once again having the dubious distinction of the highest property taxes in the nation, and the economy in dire straits, there’s no better time than now to empower this panel.”

Earlier this year, Oros and the Republican minority proposed substantial cuts in the county budget that would have reduced the tax hike to about one percent, including eliminating such unnecessary expenses as the Tax Commission and the Mounted Police.

Oros is confident a blue ribbon panel of professionals would be able to find further cuts and more cost-saving in the way Westchester does business.

“If there’s a will, there’s a way,” Oros said. “This is a way to make a real difference. Clearly, the governor feels it would benefit the state. Why should Westchester only stand by and watch? We need to have some skin in the game as well.”

The panel would be patterned after the federal military base closing commission and New York State's Berger Commission which oversaw hospital closures in the state. Both panels have the power to make binding recommendations that can only be overturned by super majorities.

"The only way to attract worthwhile active members to this panel is by legislating that a minimum of 50% of their final recommendations would be enacted within 60 days," said Oros. The outline of the legislation will be submitted for the October 6, 2008 Board of Legislators agenda for referral to the appropriate committee.
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A MESSAGE FROM STATE ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:

STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL
ON LOOMING BUDGET CRISIS AND ECONOMIC WOES
WAKE UP ALBANY…IT’S THE ECONOMY SILVER!


"With the sad news that Westchester now ranks top in the nation in property taxes, the Sheldon Silver led legislature seems to be working in reverse. Bad news is good news for legislators addicted to spending and addicted to using taxes as their magical elixir to fund budget gaps. It’s time to head back to Albany as soon possible to trim more fat from our bloated state budget," Ball stated.

"While many in Albany do not want to hear it, we can’t tax our way out of this one. Let me repeat: we cannot solve this problem by increasing taxes. Sheldon Silver, Albany’s big tax and spender, has today called for the renewal of the Commuter Tax. A tax by any other name, is still a tax, and the last thing we need in this fiscal crisis is another tax. Wake up Albany! It’s the economy Silver.”

"It is clearer now, more then ever, that the New York State legislature must take immediate action to protect working families and seniors. The looming fiscal deficits will soon become unmanageable if we do not return to Albany to trim even more fat from the bloated state budget. And all new taxing schemes should be shelved. It’s time for the guys making the big bucks in Albany to begin making some tough decisions. Something must be done before the money earmarked for school aide and local aide evaporates," Ball said.

“When I first voted against the bloated and irresponsible budget back in March, I opposed it not only because it was propped up on unrealistic revenue projections and contained hundreds of millions of dollars in wasteful spending and pork; but also because it recalculated the STAR formula which gutted the enhanced STAR program for our seniors, and proposed deep cuts to our home health care providers and Medicaid reimbursements.”

“While it may not be popular to say it, what this really amounted to, was yet another tax increase passed on by Sheldon Silver and the rank-and-file Assembly Democrats onto those who could afford it least. My office has received dozens of calls each day over the past week from seniors wondering why their tax rebate check is so much smaller, and begging for help in choosing buying their prescriptions or saving money to pay for the ever-escalating costs of heating their home this winter," Ball lamented.

"I implore the Governor and legislative leaders to call us back to Albany for as long as it takes. Legislators should be prepared to suspend their campaigns, and spend whatever time is necessary to analyze the problems we face, and enact real solutions that will bring lasting relief to our great state. Maybe Silver should even consider including rank and file members in the discussions, for a change, if he is short on ideas of where to make the cuts…boy that would be a change. We may actually get something done," Ball concluded.
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:

Dear Readers:

This week I discuss Congressman John Hall. 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:

JOHN G. TESTA: www.johngtesta.com

ON TOPIC W/ JOHN TESTA: www.ontopicwithjt.com

THE WINERY AT ST. GEORGE: http://www.TheWineryAtStGeorge.com

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: Various day and times on chanel 20(Ykt.only)
Hosted by: SUPERVISOR 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.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Dominec Volpe

THE ISSUES: Thursdays at 9:PM chanel 74 Peekskill Mondays at 8PM chanel 15
Hosted by; Sam Davis

ON TOPIC WITH JOHN TESTA: Thursdays at 9:30PM chanel 15 (Peekskill & Cortlant)
Tuesdays in Yorktown & Putnam Valley 9:30 chanel 74
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

10/05/08