Issues Discussed:
1) my commentary
2) a message from candidate for Westchester Legislator John Testa
3) op-ed in this weeks (07/08/09) NCN
4) a message from the Putnam County GOP
5) a message from candidate for Putnam Valley Council Sam Davis
6) what's happening at Graymoor, Garrison, N.Y,
7) a message from candidate for Yorktown Supervisor Susan Siegel
8) a message from candidate for Yorktown Council Terrence Murphy
9) a message from candidate for Yorktown Council David Paganelli
10)a message from candidate for Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino
11)a message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
12)a message from Assemblyman Greg Ball
************My new In My Opinion column's topic of discussion in the NCN
************Atom Taxi Inc. Airport Service
************Contact me e-mail addresses
************Sites to link to for more information(to be a better voter)
************Cable shows to watch(to better inform)
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Dear Readers:
What if the State passed a tax and nobody paid? This is the approach Putnam County government is taking to the new MTA Payroll Tax. Putnam County is withholding payment. It's about damn time somebody stopped letting the state get away with ripping off local governments. This should be done with all un-funded mandates passed down to local governments. The State Legislature passes new taxes, fees, surcharges, regulations on local governments that these governments must implement on their residents so these governments get the blame for increasing local taxes. The State legislature does the same with schools also. The State Legislator's then take bows saying they have passed these mandates without raising state taxes. We, like idiots, say thank you very much by re-electing them. Is it any wonder why our state governments treats us with such contempt?
Finally a local government has said enough! Putnam County is saying before you impose this obscene tax on our residents, open the books and audit them first. We know that the MTA has played fast and loose with book keeping in the past, remember when it was found they kept two sets of books? We also know that the MTA is bloated with management over paid with benefits, perks, health care and pensions the private sector can only dream of. There is also a track record of mismanagement of billions of our monies paid through taxes, fares and tolls. Instead of first making sure the MTA starts running a tight fiscal ship, all this new tax does is allow the MTA to continue is path of fiscal insanity and unaccountability. Putnam County is saying put the horse before the cart.
This action is being portrayed as an effort in futility as the state will take that money anyway in the form of less money allocated to Putnam County. Actually Putnam County is still ahead of the game because they will not have to pay for the new book keeping this tax will require. Remember the computing, collecting and paying this tax takes people to perform the tasks. Somebody has to get paid for this and that pay is with tax dollars.
Putnam County will be faced with two choices by receiving less money form the state. They will either have to do more with less or raise taxes to make up the difference. The easy way is to raise taxes, not wise in this fiscal climate. Doing more with less runs the risk that by making hard choices somebody might not get re-elected, heaven forbid somebody does right by the people first instead of protecting the butt. There is a third choice, stop doing tasks mandated by the state that the state has not provided funding for. In for a dime in for a dollar. It is time for local governments to challenge the state's right to force increase costs on local municipalities with out providing the funding. It is time for our state legislators to take the blame instead of the bows.
Civil disobedience starts with the first shot across the bow. Putnam County has fired that shot. Are the rest of our local municipalities going to sit by silent? Are these other municipalities going to cower in the corner? We as a people have reached the tipping point. Other municipalities must stand with Putnam County, must stand up for thier residents and defy the state.
Putnam County is right on this. Putnam County is a majority Republican Government. The State is one party ruled by the Democrats. Most of our local governments are Democrat lead. A good idea has no political gender. We the people, our local governments already pay dedicated taxes to the MTA even though we do not directly use their services but do benefit form them. If this is not enough money for the MTA then open the books and explain why. Our local governments should not put party affiliation first. Their job is to fight for their residents no matter who the enemy is. On this issue it is time to fight back, who knows where it might lead? It is time to find out if our local elected officials are leaders or lemmings.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER LEGISLATOR JOHN TESTA:
The following letter from John appeared in the June 24th edition of the North County News:
If you thought the absurd level of spending in County government reached its peak, think again. Recently, the County Administration approved additional spending allocations for the Ardsley warehouse building purchased last year to store the county voting machines. This ill-conceived purchase is a perfect example of what is wrong with county government today.
The purchase of this unmarketable, dilapidated structure last year for an outrageous cost to taxpayers of $6 million was irresponsible enough. The additional $7 million in renovation costs approved soon after the purchase was still not the end of this "money pit" created by the board majority. Recently, the same group who approved the $13 million in spending a year ago have approved to spend over $2 million more in taxpayer funds for roof repair, demolition costs and asbestos abatement. What was the original $7 million in renovation costs for? County Legislator Oros and his colleagues Maisano and Burrows were justified in opposing this scheme. Oros was right on the money when he predicted that "the building was ignored for three years by prospective buyers for a reason" and predicted "no doubt there will be additional remediation work necessary that out paces the administration's estimates."
Now, the renovation requires additional "change orders" to allocate even more taxpayer funds to be used on this disaster. Close to $100,000 in additional funds are being allocated for asbestos abatement alone. Who knows when this will end? The building was deemed mold infested when purchased so be prepared for that change order soon.
Despite the lack of transparency that has been exposed with this deal the county board majority keeps throwing good money after bad. This is why we need someone who will continue to stand up to this kind of arrogance toward the taxpayer and represent District 1 at the County Board of Legislators with experience, leadership and integrity. We can't afford someone who will merely go along with the majority and rubber stamp this kind of mismanagement.
As your next County Legislator I will fight this kind of activity and work to bring transparency and accountability to County Government. I look forward to bringing my experience as a mayor of a city who has made tough decisions and kept tax increases at 0% for three years in a row as well as the leadership needed to stand up for the people who pay the bills, the taxpayer.
For more information contact:
campaign@johngtesta.com
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GUEST COMMENTARY IN THIS WEEKS (07/08/09) NORTH CONTY NEWS:
GUEST COMMENTARY: The Emperor’s new teleprompter
Thomas J. Annacone
Once upon a time there lived a community organizer. Now you may not know what a community organizer is or what he does, but that is the beauty of the position; the community organizer doesn’t really do anything in particular. This community organizer loved to make speeches. He was very good at reciting speeches to whoever would listen. His favorite speech was entitled, “I Have a Plan.” He recited this speech to the pillars of his community including William Ayers, Jeremiah Wright, Rod Blagojewich and others. The community was indeed, very well organized. When members of the community were asked where the community organizer was, the reply was always the same: “He’s planning.”
Shortly thereafter, with the help of the magic teleprompter, Barack was elected to the U.S. Senate where he established a pattern of always voting “present,” although he seldom was.
After a remarkably brief record as senator in which little legislation was introduced, and many “I Have a Plan” speeches were given, the freshman senator decided to run for president. During his campaign, he continued to make many fine speeches, some with Greek columns and some with fireworks, but none with a plan. The candidate, whose given name was Barack, stayed true to the agreement and always held out the promise of a plan. During the campaign, Barack attacked the bias of others for using his middle name of Hussein, but later, in speeches in other countries, he was always sure to include Hussein in the program.
So it came to pass that Barack was elected to the office of President of the United States. He, however, believed that he had been elected Emperor of the World, and Evan Thomas of Newsweek proclaimed him to be God, (though no wise men were ever in evidence). Chris Matthews exclaimed “...a thrill runneth up my leg!” Keith Olbermann nodded in agreement and Larry King nodded off as Rush Limbaugh wept. All this took place without a plan, but with the promise of a plan.
When the coronation was completed and Barack became the Emperor-President, problems began to surface. In an initial act he found the need to spend trillions of dollars. Since he had no plan, the bill to be voted on by the Congress presented a problem. In a brilliant stroke, the Emperor-President read his magic teleprompter and proclaimed, “No one must read the details of the bill before voting.” The Congress and the media readily agreed to this since the bill was long and tedious and not really a plan. In fact, they continued not reading the bill long after the vote — to this very day. Thus Barack’s brilliance was established and the treasury began its descent down a slippery slope. A few people noticed what was happening and whispered, “He has no plan!” But the media and Congress said, “Shhhh, Barack is planning.”
To spend trillions of dollars wisely, the Emperor-President looked for the perfect financial expert. He searched diligently for a politician who displayed the characteristics of honesty and responsibility and who was free from any hint of scandal; a difficult task, indeed! Barack read his magic teleprompter and proclaimed, “Since he has exhibited a remarkable ability to deal with government debts, Timothy Geithner will be my secretary of the treasury!” More people noticed. They said, “But Geithner doesn’t pay his taxes! Barack has no plan!” And the media and the Congress said, “Hush! Barack is planning!”
Again the Emperor-President read his magic teleprompter and proclaimed that there would be no “pork” included in bills that he would sign during his reign. The Congress, knowing that he had “no plan” to do that (or anything else) loaded his stimulus bills with so much pork that two major religions of the world were deeply offended. More people realized what was happening and exclaimed, “He has no plan!” But the Congress and the media insisted, “Be quiet, Barack is planning.”
The Emperor-President (by fiat) moved Chrysler into bankruptcy and converted GM into Government Motors. To repay union support, money legally intended for investors was converted into shares allowing the UAW to achieve control of Government Motors. And Barack read his magic teleprompter and appointed as head of Government Motors, Edward Whitacre. Mr. Whitacre proclaimed in his acceptance speech, “I don’t know anything about cars, but I have a plan.” And Barack beamed as many people exclaimed, “He has no plan!” But the media and Congress shouted, “Shut up, Barack is planning!”
Thus Barack continued to read his magic teleprompter and made many decisions and changes in our form of government and all these changes had one thing in common: they were done without a plan. Czars were appointed by decree of the magic teleprompter. Money was spent and more was promptly printed. Terrorists were freed from Gitmo and sent on expensive vacations to Bermuda. ACORN, having proved that it could not keep track of voter registration, was given the responsibility of taking the census. The caliber of Barack’s appointments was carefully monitored by the magic teleprompter. Thus his Supreme Court nominee confused “ethnic” with “ethics.” Townhall meetings were held where audiences were allowed to read only questions supplied by the magic teleprompter. Now many began to notice and cried out, “He has no plan!” And as always, the media and the Congress answered, “Barack is planning!”
But finally Barack read his magic teleprompter and proclaimed that he would take possession of the media and no voice in protest or opposition would be allowed to participate. ABC in deference to the Emperor-President assumed a new motto: “Fair not! ...and unbalanced.” Now some of the media whispered, “He has a plan!” and the population cried out, “He has a plan! and some in Congress proclaimed, “He has a plan!” And a meeting was held and there was general agreement that the media should not be part of the government but rather, independent and objective; and the Legislative and Judicial branches should be separate from the Executive Branch of government. In short, the discarded system of checks and balances should be reconstituted.
But no one had a plan for how this could be accomplished, for only Barack had a magic teleprompter.
Thomas J. Annacone is a resident of Yorktown Heights.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PUTNAM VALLEY GOP:
Come Join us for a Mid-Summer
Wine and Cheese Event
Supporting: Robert Tendy
Jackie Annabi
Esther McHenry
Candidates for Putnam Valley Town Officers
Thursday - July 16, 2009
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Hanlon's Neighborhood Steak House
151 Bryant Pond Road
Mahopac, N.Y.
Donation - $50 per person
$90 per couple
Inquiries - 914-582-7290
Or e-mail - PutnamValleyGOP@gmail.com
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR PUTNAM VALLEY COUNCIL SAM DAVIS:
It is with pleasure that I write to extol the virtues of Sam Davis for ANY office he chooses to seek. If that sounds like an old fashioned endorsement of a "Mr. Smith goes to Washington " type character, it's because it is. Sam is the best.
I've worked with Sam in the tax reform movement for several years and his participation is invaluable. He's worth three of most other organizational leaders.
Sam travels constantly -long distances- to speak up for people who are in danger of losing their homes to chaotic, irrational property taxes...and to meet with the other leaders and the powers -that- be in Albany.
We have traveled far and we are within striking distance of success because of Sam and the other relentless reform leaders. Meanwhile matters WILL get worse with pension shortfalls, loss of income for local governments, increases in county taxes due to the state's incompetence and neglect, and the recession we are experiencing.
Any government, but especially local government, will need an in-house property tax expert on call...more than ever before. To have one on the P.V.town board is a blessing. This is an extra added benefit with Sam.
His other qualities, among them: honesty, intelligence, creativity, relentlessness, and outside the box thinking are hard to duplicate...but to have a property tax fighter and Albany expert at this particular time is pure serendipity...
Keep Sam working for you especially-along with all the other taxpayers he's helping-. Elect him ASAP.
gioia shebar
Coordinator Taxnightmare.org
Member Omnibus Tax Solution Consortium
For more information please visit Taxnightmare.org.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GRAYMOOR, GARRISON:
SUMMER DOCS & DISCUSSION SERIES
eight documentaries*
followed by discussion
TUESDAYS
during July and August
7:30 PM
GRAYMOOR SPIRITUAL LIFE CENTER
1350 Route 9
Garrison, NY 10524-0300
(845)424-3671 X2111
www.graymoorcenter.org
TUESDAY, July 14th, at 7:30 PM
HIV PRIEST NEWS AT ELEVEN
The “Nothing Sacred” episode that never made it on the air.
TUESDAY, July 21st, at 7:30 PM
FROM JESUS TO CHRIST
The “Frontline” program that explores the life of Jesus and the movement he started, challenging familiar assumptions and conventional notions about the origins
of Christianity.
TUESDAY, July 28th, at 7:30 PM
ASSISI PILGRIMAGE
Why does the whole world come to Assisi, the birthplace of Saints Francis and Clare? What draws pilgrims and tourists, church and government leaders, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists and those without any creed to this ancient city?
TUESDAY, August 4th, at 7:30 PM
CREATIVITY: TOUCHING THE DIVINE
Artists and non-artists who have experienced the joyful tandem of spirituality and creativity share the possibility for creativity regardless of circumstances or abilities.
TUESDAY, August 11th, at 7:30 PM
ON THE LINE
What happens when a group of activists, priests, celebrities and students risk arrest
to protest U.S. foreign policy in Latin America.
TUESDAY, August 18th, at 7:30 PM
DIVINING THE HUMAN
John Nava’s massive tapestries that grace the interior of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles integrate 21st century technology with centuries-old tradition.
TUESDAY, August 25th, at 7:30 PM
CHAMPIONS OF FAITH
Baseball’s biggest stars reveal how their faith guides and sustains
their spectacular major league careers.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN SUPERVISOR SUSAN SIEGEL:
From Susan Siegel, Republican candidate for Yorktown Town Supervisor
Web Site Highlights Yorktown Management Mishaps
How did Yorktown lose $50,000 in 2008?
That’s the first example of a “management mishap” made by the current Yorktown administration that’s been posted online at www.wakeupyorktown.com/mishaps. Additional examples of errors, mistakes, mismanagement and poor judgment will be posted on the site on an ongoing basis between July and Election Day.
Voters are invited to keep track of the mishaps until they begin to ask themselves whether they can afford two more years of mismanagement.
“We started the list as a way of waking up Yorktown voters,” explained Susan Siegel, Republican candidate for town supervisor. “Most residents are unaware of what’s happening in town. One mistake is acceptable. We’re all human. We can even accept two and three mistakes. But when a clear pattern emerges of continuing errors, mistakes, and misjudgments, then it’s time to start asking who’s managing our town and whether there’s any real leadership.”
A regular attendee at town board meetings for the past two years, Siegel says the mismanagement examples are based on what she has observed at meetings as well as documents she obtained by using the Freedom of Information Law. Each of the examples are reinforced with dates and facts.
Additional management mishaps posted on the web site include:
Neglecting to read a contract before signing it
Lack of leadership on the senior center issue
Lack of leadership on federal stimulus money
Lost town board resolutions
Town business takes second place to politics
Siegel said she believes that most Yorktown residents aren’t aware of at least five of the six mishaps. “The only issue that’s gotten any real publicity has been the confusion and lack of leadership on the senior citizen center."
Susan Siegel for Supervisor
419 Granite Springs Road
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(914) 245-2661 Fax: (914) 245-2630
susan@wakeupyorktown.com www.wakeupyorktown.com
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL TERRENCE MURPHY:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2009
CONTACT: Matthew Slater, (914) 582-2361
Murphy Defends Local Residents
Town Board Candidate Questions Rezoning Proposals
During this past week’s town board meeting in Yorktown, residents expressed their concerns over what they say is a continued abuse of open meetings laws, as well as the rezoning process, by the town board's Democratic led majority.
“The reality is the people of Yorktown were never given an opportunity to voice their concerns over the lands in question,” Dr. Terrence Murphy (R, I - Yorktown), a candidate for the Yorktown Town Board, said. “That is exactly the reason why we have open meetings laws, and this closed door business being run by the town board needs to be looked into.”
On May 19, 2009 the town board reclassified nearly 120 pieces of land. Many of these parcels were removed from the tax rolls by rezoning them to parkland, with the rest remaining open space.
“It is clear the Democratic majority, which controls the town board, wishes to conduct this important business out of the public’s eye,” Murphy commented. “Anytime public officials deny citizens their right to an open process questions need to be asked and answers sought.”
When the issue of rezoning appeared before the town board this past May, Dr. Murphy provided one piece of advice, that the process needs to remain open to the public. In light of the most recent concerns by local residents regarding rezoning laws a troubling pattern has emerged.
“The Democratic majority's attempt to rezone residential properties is a joke,” Murphy continued. “Many of these families, like mine, have lived in this town, in the same house for generations. To rezone them now, despite a clear ruling from the State Supreme Court, just shows the backward thinking and noncompliance by the sitting majority of the town board.”
“The reality is these actions by the town will cost Yorktown residents more money they cannot afford to lose,” Murphy concluded. “Either by taking land off of the tax rolls or by paying more legal fees this scenario will only lead to increased taxes in a town which resides in the highest taxed county in America.”
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL DAVID PAGANELLI:
THIS LETTER WAS IN THIS WEEKS (07/08/09) NCN:
Paganelli ready to listen
To the Editor:
I believe that part of providing a pleasant dining experience is also getting to know our customers. I try to spend some time with everyone who patronizes my establishment. You try to find out their likes and dislikes, enjoy the compliments and listen to the critiques. What I am saying is that communication is essential in providing quality service. It is this lesson I now wish to bring to my campaign for Yorktown councilman.
It is in that vein that I have purchased ad space, starting with this issue, outlining my position on various issues facing our community. I will be doing this over the next 10 weeks. Each week in North County News, I intend to share with you my views and position on local matters. It is my hope that by doing this, when I come knocking on doors, seeking support and votes, we will be able to discuss these issues and I can find out how you feel. Also, during this period I can learn about issues under the radar that I can address in one of the upcoming ads.
Communication, essential in business, is also essential in serving the public as an elected official. In my business, I am always available to meet with customers and should I be fortunate enough to be your representative on the Yorktown Town Board, I will always be available to meet with you. So, it is my hope each week that you will look for my ad, and when we meet we can discuss these issues.
David Paganelli
Candidate for Yorktown Councilman
Democratic and Working
Families Parties
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE ROB ASTORINO:
URGENT! URGENT! URGENT! URGENT! URGENT! URGENT!
Dear Friend of Rob Astorino,
An important milestone in Rob Astorino’s race for Westchester County Executive will be here one week from today.
July 15th is when quarterly contributions are reported, so if you have been planning to contribute to Rob’s campaign to reduce taxes, streamline government, and bring transparent, honest government to Westchester County, we ask that you do so now.
Perception is key in political races, and everything is moving in Rob’s favor. He is campaigning around the clock and is right on the issues. Furthermore, public response to his candidacy has been overwhelmingly supportive.
New York State is a mess. The Legislature is deadlocked. Taxes and spending are rising in the worst recession in memory. And Westchester is bearing the brunt of it with the highest taxes in America.
Westchester desperately needs a fresh new, energetic and honest voice for fiscal responsibility. We need someone who will stick up for taxpayers again.
Rob Astorino is that voice. Please help Rob build on that momentum by contributing to his campaign today. Contributions can be made in just a few seconds at www.robastorino.com.
Many thanks in advance for your generous—and timely—support!
Sincerely,
Friends of Rob Astorino
PS: Rob is going to win this race. Please join him in that victory by contributing at www.robastorino.com today. Thank you!!!
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
Assemblywoman Galef Investigates Shared Purchasing Models with Shared Services Task Force on July 23, 2009
(July 8, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef will host a meeting for her Shared Services Task Force of the 90th Assembly District on July 23, 2009 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, at Croton Village Hall, 1 Van Wyck Street Croton-on-Hudson. The meeting is open to the public, and will focus on how shared purchasing can be beneficial for cost savings for taxpayers.
The July 23 meeting focuses on shared purchasing models that are already in existence. Assemblywoman Galef has assembled a panel of experts representing some of these paradigms, including New York State Office of General Services Commisioner John Egan and Deputy Commissioner, Information Technology and Procurement Services Carla Chiaro, CFO for the Westchester Library System John Smith, Putnam County Director of Purchasing Alex Mazzotta, Westchester County Director of the Bureau of Purchase and Supply Jim Fererra and Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES Business Manager Todd Currie.
Assemblywoman Galef founded the Shared Services Task Force in April of 2009 in an effort to bring community members together at the grassroots level to look more deeply into areas of sharing and consolidation. The members of the Task Force have a diverse and varied background including school board members, planning board members, representatives from private industry, town board members and interested residents from municipalities throughout her Assembly District.
“In light of these difficult economic times, we have an excellent opportunity right now to investigate how local municipalities can share more services. Sometimes these can be difficult changes to make, but they will ultimately lessen costs for our taxpayers,” said Galef. “I know our panel has a lot of important information to offer on ways for our communities to share and consolidate. This is an opportunity for the public to learn, encourage and advocate for changes or expansions to services in their own communities, which might help cut costs,” she concluded.
For more information or directions, contact Assemblywoman Galef’s district office at (914) 941-1111 or e-mail depaolos@assembly.state.ny.us.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
PUTNAM COALITION DISCUSSES DWI, ILLEGAL HIRING-HOUSING
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson) has been working behind the scenes to bring together a responsible coalition in Putnam County to combat the serious and distinct issues of drunken driving and illegal hiring.
Over the past few weeks, Ball has brought together various elected officials from all levels and branches of government throughout Putnam County to begin developing a comprehensive plan of action. On June 29, the informal group met for the first time to discuss both DWI and illegal housing-hiring, and followed up with another session on July 2.
The drinking and driving forum featured alcohol and substance abuse rehabilitative and preventative subject matter experts and discussed implementing a designated driver program in Putnam County, along with county civil forfeiture initiatives, including vehicle seizure of repeat offenders, as well as mandatory ignition interlocks for first time offenders and social host liabilities for underage parties; state legislation to mandate education awareness seminars for bartenders and a uniform law for closing time; and town ordinances for local bar owner education and training seminars sponsored by the sheriff’s office compulsory for the acquisition of a liquor license through the clerk’s office.
The illegal hiring and 1099 misclassification forum consisted of subject matter expert input from regional labor unions, focused on project labor agreements for all towns in Putnam County; plus the expansion of the jurisdiction of the home improvement board to cover new housing, and an increase of fines and penalties for violators; and measures to allow code enforcers to work hand in hand with local authorities.
A follow up meeting is scheduled for this week to discuss rental registration, and trespass advisory programs and a joint task force meeting with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Offices of Detention and Removal Operations, and Investigations.
Once completed, the Assemblyman expects to present the package in an open forum to the public on July 23 at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 38 Union Hall. The tentative hope is that by July 23, the group will be ready to unveil a draft of action on both DWI and illegal housing and hiring.
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I discuss "Cap And Trade". 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:
DOMENIC VOLPE: www.votefordomenicvolpe.com
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/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
CORTLANDT MANOR CIVIC ASSOCIATION: www.cortlandtcivic.com
GOPAC: gohudblogs.com
PEEKSILL NEWS: http://peekskillnews.blogspot.com/
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: www.yorktownopengov.org
DAILY DOSE OF DUMB: http://www.dailydoseofdumb.com/
PADAVANO FINE ARTS: Padovanofineart.com
MARK DREXEL: www.ElectDrexel.com
ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL: www.Ball4NY.com
SUSAN SIEGEL: www.wakeupyorktown.com
CORTLANDT CHOICE: WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
DAN SCHORR: dan@electdanschorr.com
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON (yOrktown and Putnam Valley only)
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI (Yorktown only)
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Domenic 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
SPEAK OUT WITH SANDY GALEF: Yorktown chanel 74 Wednesdays at 7:30PM..Ossining/Peekskill chanel 15 Wednesdays at 8PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DEAR SANDY: Yorktown chanel 74 Fridays 7:30PM...Ossining/Peeksill chanel 15 Fridays
9PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DOWN THE MIDDLE: Yorktown chanel 74 wednesdays 8-9PM.
Hosted By: Mike Thomas & Bill Greenberg
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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
07/12/09
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Saturday, July 04, 2009
WE HAVE GOTTEN WHAT WE DESERVE IN ALBANY
Issues Discussed:
1) my commentary
2) cable t.v. update
RE: The Volpe Report
3) e-mail from reader Vic Of Putnam Valley
4) a message fro candidate for Westchester County Legislator Domenic Volpe
5) a message from candidate for Putnam Valley town Council Sam Davis
6) What's Happening at 12 Grapes, N. Division Street, Peekskill
7) a message from candidate for Westchester District Attorney Dan Schorr
8) a message from the Peekskill GOP
9) a message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
10) a message from Assemblyman Greg Ball
************My new In My Opinion column's topic of discussion in the NCN
************Atom Taxi Inc. Airport Service
************Contact me e-mail addresses
************Sites to link to for more information(to be a better voter)
************Cable shows to watch(to better inform)
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Dear Readers:
History does not start when you wake up in the morning. In 2006 Alan Hevesi was overwhelmingly re-elected N.Y.S. Comptroller. He was overwhelmingly endorsed by most of the media. He admitted he abused the taxpayers trust before the election. This man who controlled the pension of all N.Y public employees was a crook. He was re-elected with 59% of the vote. The voters of N.Y , the media of N.Y did not mind. In fact to this day I have talked to many who voted for him and they still twist themselves in knots justifying their vote. So I find it more than amusing that these same people and media are upset at what is now going on in Albany.
Voters and the media did not mind a crook minding the mint, why should voters and the media mind selfish, self-centered representation in Albany now. Voters re-elect these people 99% of the time. When a tiger does what a tiger does, why get mad at the tiger? These people in Albany know you could not give a rat pattottie about the ethics or morals or even honesty about who represents you, you have already proven that. So why should they care about going about the people business, after all next year you will re-elect them again as long as they run under your preferred party banner, and they know that.
Oh sure you talk a good game, wait till I get in that booth, I'll show you. However when the time comes, you may want to remove the other parties crook, but your parties crook is okay. The plain fact is that the voters of N.Y. have no moral compass when it comes to their preferred party. Party trumps all. We deserve what we have because those people in Albany know we have lost our outrage. The voters can not pull the lever of a person of another party no matter what offense their party standard barer commits. If worse comes to worse the voter will justify their action on grounds of moral equivalency. Moral equivalency is the false god of justifying mediocrity.
So what if Albany is at a stand still. This only means various taxes new and old are not enacted. Mandates, regulations, surcharges and fees...limbo! I really cry over that, boo-hoo. This means our local governments will either have to do with less or raise our taxes and as this is a local election season, we can hold them directly accountable. We have already allowed Albany to pass unto us untold un-funded mandates our local governments can hide behind as the pick our pockets. Two-hundred and fifty years ago it was said nobody in N.Y. is safe as long as the State Legislature is in secession, it is still true today. I hope they never resolve this mess. Knowing that the voters of N.Y. will do nothing to change the culture in Albany, this is the best I can hope for.
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CABLE T.V. UPDATE:
RE: THE VOLPE REPORT:
Andy;
The Volpe Report
Hosted by Domenic Volpe
The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the special guest for this week is none other than John Curran, City of Peekskill Historian.
Just a side note- John is one of the more popular guests the Volpe Report continues to bring on and talk with. This week Mr. Curran's three topics are 1) Jackie Gleason and the Round House in Cortlandt, 2) The Liberty Ships which were docked across the river south of Bear Mountain Bridge- sometimes known as the Mothball fleet and 3) just a quick reference to the recession of 1920-1929 and similarities to the current one.
The Volpe Report can be seen on Public Access channel 15 in the Peekskill/Cortlandt area Thursday at 8:00pm. The Yorktown/Putnam Valley area can see them on Public Access channel 74 Thursdays at 6:0pm.
Thanking you and hope all enjoy a happy and safe July 4.--
Domneic Volpe
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E-MAIL FROM READER VIC OF PUTNAM COUNTY:
Hi Andy,
I would like to respond to previous comments on the Peekskill Hollow Road controversy posted under “Roadwork or Roadblocks?”, if I may. I have been a volunteer in opposition to the PHR project for years now, and have interviewed many residents, and both written and spoken in opposition to what I consider a needless, wasteful and destructive project that opponents believe will bring greater danger to them and their families, not more “safety”. This project has acquired a life of its own and has been both misrepresented and manipulated by those who back it.
Thanks,
Vic
Putnam Valley/Kent Cliffs
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR DOMENIC VOLPE:
VOLPE AND KAPLOWITZ: STATE SENATE GETS FAILING GRADE
FOR TERM – MUST ATTEND ‘SUMMER SCHOOL’!
Domenic Volpe (D-WF), candidate for Westchester County Legislator and County Legislator and Board Vice Chairman Michael B. Kaplowitz (D-I-WF, Somers), were joined by Peekskill Mayor Mary Foster (D-WF), angry local residents and business owners, at a press conference Tuesday June 30 outside the Westchester County’s Department of Social Services Building on Washington St. in Peekskill to present a year-end ‘report card’ on the performance of the NY State Senate.
“While the Senate fiddles, Westchester taxpayers are getting burned,” said Domenic Volpe, candidate an d local businessman. “Residents of northern Westchester County depend on their state senators to carry local legislation that supports town and city budgets. It’s time to put the politics aside and get down to business.”
“The cost of the State Senate’s immaturity and inaction is going to translate to real dollars for the taxpayers of Westchester County in an already struggling economy,” said Kaplowitz, the immediate past chair and current member of the County Board’s Budget & Appropriations Committee.
According to Kaplowitz, it is appropriate that the NY State Senate receive a report card, similar20to students, at the end of the year’s legislative session. Given the stalemate in Albany, and the incomplete assignment of doing the people’s business, it is no surprise that Kaplowitz gave the dueling state lawmakers a big, fat ‘F’.
“Passing these bills is serious business – the people’s business – and our state senators must stop this madness and get back to work,” stated the democratic county lawmaker. “Just like in school, if you don’t complete the assigned work within the scheduled school year – or in this case, legislative term – then you must go to summer school,” continued Kaplowitz.
“Enough is enough. The taxpayers are relying on their state representatives to discharge their duties and bring the relief they promised to Westchester County residents. They can fight and play games on their own time,” he concluded.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR PUTNAM VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL SAM DAVIS:
Hi Andy,
On June 2nd, I was in Albany, with almost 100 others from around the state. We were there to lobby state legislators to adopt, and vote for our Circuit Breaker legislation (part of our comprehensive property tax relief and reform bill). You can see an article about our visit at: http://www.nysut.org/cps/rde/xchg/nysut/hs.xsl/newyorkteacher_13149.htm
I thought you might find this interesting. Of course, you're free to post it on your blog if you wish.
Have a great day. (I'll be out getting signatures)
Peace,
Sam
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT 12 GRAPES, N.DIVISION STREET, PEEKSKILL:
12 Grapes Wins Westchester Magazine's
Best of Westchester®
Editors' Pick for "Best New Live Music Spot"
Zagat rated 12 Grapes "Very Good to Excellent".
Wine Enthusiast gave 12 Grapes their "Award of Distinction".
And now, the Editors of Westchester Magazine voted 12 Grapes
"Best New Live Music Spot".
Great food, great wine, great music.
How great is that?
For reservations, call 914-737-6624.
**JULY SPECIAL**
Free drink or dessert when you have an early dinner.
Now eating early is really good for you!
Join us for dinner between 5 and 6pm on Thursday, Friday
or Saturday nights and receive a free drink or dessert on the house.
The small print: Offer good July '09 only. Diners must arrive between 5pm and 6pm
and order one entree to receive free drink or dessert. Not valid July 10 or July 31.
Once again, thanks for your patronage and support. Hope to see you soon. Happy 4th of July!!
Rich & Jeannie
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A MESSSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN SCHORR:
PBA OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY, INC. ENDORSES
DAN SCHORR FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY
Pleasantville, NY- June 29...Dan Schorr, the former Westchester and New York City prosecutor running for the office of Westchester County District Attorney (D.A.), today received the coveted Police Benevolent Association of Westchester, Inc. endorsement in his race to replace incumbent D. A. Janet DiFiore.
Mr. Schorr received the endorsement in a unanimous vote.
"The PBA of Westchester endorses Dan Schorr because of his deep prosecutorial experience and his commitment to fully charging violent felons for their crimes," said Joseph Giustino, Chairman of the PBA of Westchester Endorsement Committee. "The PBA of Westchester is also impressed by Mr. Schorr's commitment to crack down on sexual predators in Westchester and provide essential services and protections to victims of domestic violence. The PBA of Westchester is confident that Mr. Schorr will back up the police work of our members and make an outstanding DA."
"The PBA of Westchester endorsement means a great deal to me and I am honored to be running for district attorney with its support," Mr. Schorr said. "Police officers in Westchester risk their lives to protect the public from dangerous criminals, but their arrests need to be backed up in court with vigorous prosecutions. Violent felons receive lenient sentences in easy plea-bargain deals way too often in this county. I am going to change that the day I take office. Public safety requires toughness and vigilance."
Founded in 1913, The PBA of Westchester County, Incorporated is the oldest fraternal organization in Westchester. Comprised of police officers from across Westchester County, the organization seeks to foster good relations between departments and encourages service to the community.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PEEKSKILL GOP:
HANZLIK CALLS 11th HOUR TAX MEETING " DISGRACEFUL"
The Republican candidate for Peekskill Mayor described a special meeting of the Peekskill Common Council Friday, June 19, "a disgrace" and declared that Mayor Foster owes every citizen of Peekskill an apology.
Christopher S. Hanzlik, who also has been designated as the candidate for Mayor by the Conservative and Independence parties, said "It is bad enough that the Foster Administration would push to impose new taxes on Peekskill's property owners and the one current business that offers overnight accommodations to residents and travelers, but to call for a special meeting of the Common Council at the 11th hour on a Friday evening is a disgrace and suggests that this administration has nothing but disdain for the citizens they were elected to serve."
He also challenged the way the meeting was called. "The responsibility for calling the special meeting is murky since the only notice given to city council members was in the form of an e-mail late Wednesday afternoon, an e-mail which was sent by a city hall secretary asking if the council members 'would be available' for a special meeting on Friday evening."
Hanzlik said the City Code allows for a special meeting to be called by the Mayor or any two council members upon notice to the entire council, at least two days prior to the date fixed for the meeting. It was not until Thursday, the day before the special meeting, that the council members were given notice that there would in fact be a meeting the following evening to deal with a Home Rule Message resolution to the city's State representatives requesting that the City be allowed to impose two new taxes. One of the new taxes would be a Transfer Tax on the sale of real estate and the other would be a Hotel/Motel tax which would be charged to those who stay at Peekskill's only such facility, the Peekskill Motor Inn and a possible second facility that has been approved to be constructed at Charles Point.
Hanzlik asked, "Who, would call for a meeting to be held on a Friday night with less than 24 hour notice to the council members and no public notice to speak of?"
He answered his own question: "Only someone with something to hide." "Mayor Foster and the council members who supported her have stooped to new lows in public accountability and transparency with this action. The Mayor, with the support of her council majority, introduced the idea of including these taxes in their 2009 budget discussions almost 9 months ago. To wake up last Wednesday and all of a sudden come to the realization that she needed a special meeting on a Friday night to ask for the State's permission to impose them shows how deceitful politicians can be," Mr. Hanzlik went on to say.
Hanzlik is running for mayor of Peekskill along with Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington who are running for city council. Hanzlik concluded his statement by promising to repeal these taxes if the State were to allow Peekskill to impose them. "I and my running mates reject the request of Mayor Foster and her cohorts to impose more taxes on Peekskill's citizens and visitors. These taxes will make an already bad economic situation worse for our citizens and job producing businesses. I can tell you one thing for sure, when we are elected, one of our first acts will be to take whatever steps are necessary to repeal these taxes. And this will be done at a regular meeting of the Common Council on a regular day and time."
Go Peekskill
Contact Vincent C. Vesce
(914) 393-2241
http://www.peekskillgop.com
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PEEKSKILL REPUBLICAN SLATE EMBRACES OROS / TESTA POSITION ON ASSESSMENT BILL
Joining the position expressed by County Legislator George Oros and Peekskill's former mayor, John Testa, who is running to succeed Oros on the County Legislature, Peekskill Mayoral candidate Chris Hanzlik and his running mates called on the State Senate to reject the "Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill" (S.1706) that has already been approved by the State Assembly.
Hanzlik was joined by, Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington in calling on the State Senate to reject this legislation and have also called on the Peekskill Common Council to pass a resolution expressing the City's opposition to the bill. "This is just one more outrage that a substantial portion of Peekskill's residents would be required to deal with by our state representatives. This selective legislation that targets certain residential and commercial property owners would result in higher taxes just when people are struggling the most. It must be rejected by the State Senate".
City Council candidate Sue Sheridan said, "George Oros and John Testa have it right...this pending legislation would be a disaster for hundreds of our residents and commercial enterprises. Why this selective legislation and why now especially during one of the worst recessions in recent memory"?
Joe Torres, another Republican City Council candidate added, "With my business, I am in and out of dozens and dozens of homes and businesses in Peekskill every single week. I get to talk with a lot of people who live in condos and other types of homes that this assessment bill would apply to and I can tell you they cannot afford to be hit with the type of tax increases this bill would cause. It will drive even more people out of Westchester and NY State. As Peekskill's former mayor, John Testa knows this better than most and I echo his sentiments."
Tony Washington, also a Republican City Council candidate, called on Peekskill's City Council to act in defense of Peekskill residents and business owners who would be affected by this bill. "Given the current economic climate, with people losing their homes and struggling to make ends meet, the Democrat Legislative majority in Albany is stepping on the very people they pretend to champion by adding to the already crushing tax burden faced by our residents and business owners. This bill, if it becomes law, will destroy Westchester's competitive position relative to neighboring counties, since the Democrats carefully crafted it to leave every other county in the state unaffected. Peekskill's current Council and Mayor should realize that this proposed bill will do nothing but hurt our city's ability to grow and prosper. So, in plain English, I call on them to strongly denounce this bill and oppose its' passage in the strongest possible terms."
Chris Hanzlik, Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington are the designated candidates of the Republican, Conservative and Independence parties for this fall's elections in the City of Peekskill. Respectively, they are running for mayor and the three city council seats that are up for election this year.
Go Peekskill
Contact Vinne Vesce, (914) 393-2241
http://www.peekskillgop.com
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
*Assemblywoman Galef’s Annual Senior Citizen Forum Headlines Storyteller Jonathan Kruk*
Assemblywoman Galef announced that her annual Senior Citizen Forum will feature renowned storyteller Jonathan Kruk of Cold Spring, NY. The Forum will be held *Thursday, July 9 from **9 am** to **12 noon** at **Cortlandt** **Town Hall**, **1 Heady Street*. This year’s theme is *“Let’s Enjoy the **Hudson** **Valley** as We Celebrate the Quadricentennial”*, marking the 400^th anniversary of Henry Hudson sailing up the river that now bares his name. New Yorkers are celebrating this momentous occasion through the summer and fall months. Breakfast will be provided by the Hudson Valley Hospital Center.
Jonathan Kruk will lead off the morning with an entertaining story about Henry Hudson and the Quadricentennial. Jonathan has been sharing his creative stories for many years, giving about 300 performances and workshops per year. Jonathan was selected /"Best Storyteller in the //Hudson// //Valley//"/ by Hudson Valley Magazine and The New York Times has described him as "Westchester’s intrepid storyteller". Jonathan has appeared on P.B.S., The Travel and History Channels.
The Forum will follow with a variety of speakers on the Quadricentennial, tourism in the Hudson Valley, and local events for both seniors and their families. Kim Sinistore, Director of the Westchester County Department of Tourism, will discuss local Quadricentennial events along with descriptions of local tourism sites for everyone to visit. Valerie Hickman, Director of the Putnam County Visitors Bureau, will discuss events coming up in Putnam County as well as tourism sites and local Quadricentennial events. Barbara Fratianni, Assistant Director of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission, will describe upcoming Quadricentennial Events in the region and throughout New York State. John Dennehey, Senior Planner of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area and Hudson River Valley Greenway will be presenting wonderful information on local historical sites. Lastly, Dr. Gary Phillips, a board certified endocrinologist at Hudson Valley Hospital Center, will share his knowledge of living healthy with diabetes and diabetes prevention.
Hudson Valley Hospital Center is sponsoring the Forum. Co-sponsors are: Bethel Homes and Services, Briarcliff Manor Seniors, Buchanan Senior Citizen Club, Cold Spring Senior Nutrition Center, Cortlandt Seniors, Crompond Seniors, Croton Senior Citizens, Drum Hill Senior Living, Nor-Cort Seniors, Ossining Golden Age Club #1, Ossining Senior Center, Ossining Senior Citizens, Peekskill Senior Citizen’s Club, Philipstown Senior Citizens, Putnam County AARP Chapter 1183, Putnam County Office of the Aging, Putnam Valley Seniors, Verplanck Seniors, and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services.
For more information about the event please contact Sara Rubin in Galef’s district office at (914) 941-1111 or by e-mailing rubins@assembly.state.ny.us .
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Sales Tax Extensions Made Automatic for Countie
Leaders Throughout New York Hail Legislation Introduction
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef introduced legislation (A.8754/S5922) permanently authorizing counties, cities, and school districts to impose up to a four percent rate of sales and compensating use taxes. If passed, these entities would not have to seek legislative approval for tax increases up to 4% every two years. Five counties would be authorized to impose sales and use taxes at rates in excess of 4% for two years.
“If this legislation were law, our city, town, county, and school district leaders and officials wouldn’t be as apprehensive and, quite frankly, distressed as they are right now given the stalemate in the New York State Senate,” said Assemblywoman Sandy Galef. (The Senate is deadlocked at 31 votes for each party and no agreement regarding the leadership composition). “There are close to fifty bills in the Assembly and Senate that can’t be enacted because of the current impasse. As a consequence, municipal and school entities throughout the state are facing million dollar shortfalls in their budgets. This is an untenable position for local officials; they may be forced to raise property taxes on the already overburdened homeowner.”
Current state law authorizes counties, cities, and school districts to impose up to a three percent rate of tax, and also authorizes more than 50 counties and six cities to impose additional rates of tax in excess of three percent for two year periods. There are 57 counties outside New York City that impose general sales and use taxes at the current maximum authorized rate of three percent, with more than fifty counties imposing additional rates , ranging from 1/8% to ¼%. All must have their sales tax authority renewed by the New York State Legislature every other year.
“Under the current system, sales tax legislation is often rushed through the state Legislature at the last minute, leaving local governments uncertain about incoming revenues. This is especially true this year, given the gridlock in the State Senate,” said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo. “This is an attempt to streamline state government so that it is more efficient and user-friendly for municipalities.”
Putnam County Executive Bob Bondi today thanked Assemblywoman Sandra Galef for introducing the Putnam County Sales Tax extension bill. Putnam County will receive $ 13 million annually as a result of this Legislation. Without this Legislation, Putnam County property taxpayers would see their County tax bills rise by 36%. Bondi stated, “Assemblywoman Galef understands the tremendous burden that property taxpayers bear in the Hudson Valley , and we appreciate her efforts to provide real property tax relief while avoiding the devastating cuts in services that Putnam County residents want and need.”
"This is a common sense piece of legislation that will provide counties and taxpayers with greater certainty during an uncertain time," said Stephen J. Acquario, executive director of the New York State Association of Counties.
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Galef’s Legislation Permitting Electronic Court Appearances in Putnam County
Passes State Assembly
Putnam County Officials Praise Its Passage
(June 30, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced passage of her Assembly bill A8096/S5084, which would allow defendants to appear electronically at court proceedings in Putnam County. The Putnam County Executive, Board of Legislators and the County Sheriff requested the legislation to save taxpayer money and increase government efficiency by allowing defendants to appear electronically in connection with a criminal action (except for hearings and trials).
“With the passage of this bill Putnam County will join twenty-six other counties, including Westchester, in New York State that have the authority to conduct electronic court appearances,” said Galef. “Giving the courts in Putnam County the authority to decide whether or not it is necessary to see a defendant in connection with criminal actions will not only cut costs for taxpayers it will also enhance public safety. It also preserves the rights for those accused of a crime since they will still appear in person at critical junctures of the proceedings such as a hearing or trial.”
The legislation takes advantage of new technology that has proven effective in other parts of the state and country. By setting up a closed-circuit, audio-visual system inside a designated space in the Putnam County Correctional Facility, defendants can be present for many parts of the judicial process without being physically transported to the County Courthouse. Currently, Putnam County Correction Officers transport about two hundred detainees and prisoners to different courts across the county every year. The use of electronic court appearances would reduce the number of these transports, thereby reducing labor costs, transportation-related expenses, and has the additional advantage of protecting the environment through reduced vehicular emissions.
"This is a good example of how government at all levels can work together to accomplish the goal of making government more economic and efficient. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved and are hopeful that all approvals will occur in time to realize savings during our next fiscal year," said Putnam County Executive Robert Bondi.
Mary Ellen Odell, Putnam County Legislator and Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability (Commission) said: “On behalf of my co-chair, Neil Sullivan and Commission members, I want to thank Assemblywoman Galef for this legislation that would allow defendants to appear before a judge electronically instead of in-person. It is gratifying when a state legislator takes our recommendation to streamline Putnam County government and transforms it into reality. It is also a testament to our Commission members who come from all walks of life, political parties, public, and private sectors to work together and find ways to make government more efficient and save Putnam County residents’ money. This bill is a grand slam; it reduces our payroll significantly, decreases field transportation costs, and enhances public safety. It is a significant achievement, reducing costs while still carrying out mandatory governmental functions.”
“There are so many new forms of technology available to us, and as a result it is no longer necessary to transport defendants to and from local courts for every appearance,” said Galef. “I know this legislation is going to relieve some of the economic burden placed on my constituents in Putnam. The measures provided in this legislation will go a long way to furthering my commitment to limiting waste in New York State , both economically and environmentally,” Galef concluded.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
ONE MISSED CALL: HALL CASTS DECIDING VOTE FOR JOB-KILLING CLIMATE BILL
Ball unleashes dialing campaign to sound alarm; Restore America’s Promise
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson), a candidate for the House of Representatives in New York’s 19th congressional district, sent an automated message to residents of Dutchess and Putnam Counties yesterday, lambasting Congress for passing the Waxman-Markey ‘Cap and Tax’ bill (H.R. 2454), which he calls the “largest job killing bill ever.”
“Albany is a disaster, and in Washington, our own Congressman was one of the deciding votes for cap and trade, a national energy tax that will cost your family sixteen hundred dollars,” a Ball voiceover says during the call. “Have you had enough?”
The American Clean Energy and Security Act, otherwise know as ‘Cap and Trade’ or ‘Cap and Tax’ is major comprehensive energy legislation that many economists expect to cost tens of thousands of jobs in New York State. While some have launched misleading statements the bill would create jobs, even liberal economist Paul Krugman, a strong proponent of the bill, conceded to NPR yesterday that at best “employment would be as it would have been otherwise.”
Ball’s prospective 2010 opponent cast a deciding vote for the measure, which he calls “the largest tax hike in American history” and says would dramatically raise energy prices while New York is in the depths of an economic recession.
The calls, which reached over 40,000 households in the Hudson Valley, invite recipients to the July 6th Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium, where Ball is slated to be a guest-speaker. The April Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium drew over 4,000 angry taxpayers and was the 25th largest in the nation.
Listen to the call here: http://assemblymangball.com/gb062909b.wav
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TEA PARTY PATRIOTS PREPARE FOR ROUND 2 AT DUTCHESS STADIUM
July 6th event stands again to be one of nation's largest
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson) has been invited to be a guest speaker at the July 6th Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill.
Ball, a candidate for the House of Representatives in New York's 19th district, says the event is an opportunity to bolster his efforts to create a taxpayer resistance against the MTA payroll tax, and rally support around state and federal efforts for a comprehensive forensic accounting of the MTA and the Federal Reserve, respectively.
"The freedom to assemble and protest is something uniquely American," Ball said. "King George wanted only 10% and there was a revolt, and now our government is asking for over 50%. Not so far from Dutchess stadium, is a historic marker commemorating the Fishkill Tea Party in 1776. By banding together with blue collar workers and small business owners from all over the Hudson Valley, I'm confident we can duplicate their success."
During his speech, Ball is expected to call on the United States Senate to defeat the Waxman-Markey 'Cap and Tax' Bill, which many independent experts are calling the largest tax increase in American history, and was narrowly passed through the House of Representatives with a deciding vote from his opponent.
"It doesn't take a rocket scientist, or a rock-star for that matter, to figure out that passing a job-killer like Cap and Tax during one of the deepest economic recessions in a generation is bad for everyone," Ball added. "Washington needs to wakeup. Throughout the Hudson Valley, I hear day after day how people are desperate for real leadership, someone who will take on the Washington insiders and provide a real, independent voice for the thousands of residents like those at the Hudson Valley Tea Party. I may only be an average American, but I know I can be that voice, and I am ready to help restore America's promise."
On April 15, 2009, the Fishkill Tea Party made history by being the 25th largest tea party in the nation out of the 750 events held nationwide. For more information on the event, visit www.fishkillteaparty.com .
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I discuss national health care. 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:
DOMENIC VOLPE: www.votefordomenicvolpe.com
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/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
CORTLANDT MANOR CIVIC ASSOCIATION: www.cortlandtcivic.com
GOPAC: gohudblogs.com
PEEKSILL NEWS: http://peekskillnews.blogspot.com/
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: www.yorktownopengov.org
DAILY DOSE OF DUMB: http://www.dailydoseofdumb.com/
PADAVANO FINE ARTS: Padovanofineart.com
MARK DREXEL: www.ElectDrexel.com
ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL: www.Ball4NY.com
SUSAN SIEGEL: www.wakeupyorktown.com
CORTLANDT CHOICE: WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON (yOrktown and Putnam Valley only)
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI (Yorktown only)
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Domenic 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
SPEAK OUT WITH SANDY GALEF: Yorktown chanel 74 Wednesdays at 7:30PM..Ossining/Peekskill chanel 15 Wednesdays at 8PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DEAR SANDY: Yorktown chanel 74 Fridays 7:30PM...Ossining/Peeksill chanel 15 Fridays
9PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DOWN THE MIDDLE: Yorktown chanel 74 wednesdays 8-9PM.
Hosted By: Mike Thomas & Bill Greenberg
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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
07/04/09
1) my commentary
2) cable t.v. update
RE: The Volpe Report
3) e-mail from reader Vic Of Putnam Valley
4) a message fro candidate for Westchester County Legislator Domenic Volpe
5) a message from candidate for Putnam Valley town Council Sam Davis
6) What's Happening at 12 Grapes, N. Division Street, Peekskill
7) a message from candidate for Westchester District Attorney Dan Schorr
8) a message from the Peekskill GOP
9) a message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
10) a message from Assemblyman Greg Ball
************My new In My Opinion column's topic of discussion in the NCN
************Atom Taxi Inc. Airport Service
************Contact me e-mail addresses
************Sites to link to for more information(to be a better voter)
************Cable shows to watch(to better inform)
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Dear Readers:
History does not start when you wake up in the morning. In 2006 Alan Hevesi was overwhelmingly re-elected N.Y.S. Comptroller. He was overwhelmingly endorsed by most of the media. He admitted he abused the taxpayers trust before the election. This man who controlled the pension of all N.Y public employees was a crook. He was re-elected with 59% of the vote. The voters of N.Y , the media of N.Y did not mind. In fact to this day I have talked to many who voted for him and they still twist themselves in knots justifying their vote. So I find it more than amusing that these same people and media are upset at what is now going on in Albany.
Voters and the media did not mind a crook minding the mint, why should voters and the media mind selfish, self-centered representation in Albany now. Voters re-elect these people 99% of the time. When a tiger does what a tiger does, why get mad at the tiger? These people in Albany know you could not give a rat pattottie about the ethics or morals or even honesty about who represents you, you have already proven that. So why should they care about going about the people business, after all next year you will re-elect them again as long as they run under your preferred party banner, and they know that.
Oh sure you talk a good game, wait till I get in that booth, I'll show you. However when the time comes, you may want to remove the other parties crook, but your parties crook is okay. The plain fact is that the voters of N.Y. have no moral compass when it comes to their preferred party. Party trumps all. We deserve what we have because those people in Albany know we have lost our outrage. The voters can not pull the lever of a person of another party no matter what offense their party standard barer commits. If worse comes to worse the voter will justify their action on grounds of moral equivalency. Moral equivalency is the false god of justifying mediocrity.
So what if Albany is at a stand still. This only means various taxes new and old are not enacted. Mandates, regulations, surcharges and fees...limbo! I really cry over that, boo-hoo. This means our local governments will either have to do with less or raise our taxes and as this is a local election season, we can hold them directly accountable. We have already allowed Albany to pass unto us untold un-funded mandates our local governments can hide behind as the pick our pockets. Two-hundred and fifty years ago it was said nobody in N.Y. is safe as long as the State Legislature is in secession, it is still true today. I hope they never resolve this mess. Knowing that the voters of N.Y. will do nothing to change the culture in Albany, this is the best I can hope for.
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CABLE T.V. UPDATE:
RE: THE VOLPE REPORT:
Andy;
The Volpe Report
Hosted by Domenic Volpe
The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the special guest for this week is none other than John Curran, City of Peekskill Historian.
Just a side note- John is one of the more popular guests the Volpe Report continues to bring on and talk with. This week Mr. Curran's three topics are 1) Jackie Gleason and the Round House in Cortlandt, 2) The Liberty Ships which were docked across the river south of Bear Mountain Bridge- sometimes known as the Mothball fleet and 3) just a quick reference to the recession of 1920-1929 and similarities to the current one.
The Volpe Report can be seen on Public Access channel 15 in the Peekskill/Cortlandt area Thursday at 8:00pm. The Yorktown/Putnam Valley area can see them on Public Access channel 74 Thursdays at 6:0pm.
Thanking you and hope all enjoy a happy and safe July 4.--
Domneic Volpe
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E-MAIL FROM READER VIC OF PUTNAM COUNTY:
Hi Andy,
I would like to respond to previous comments on the Peekskill Hollow Road controversy posted under “Roadwork or Roadblocks?”, if I may. I have been a volunteer in opposition to the PHR project for years now, and have interviewed many residents, and both written and spoken in opposition to what I consider a needless, wasteful and destructive project that opponents believe will bring greater danger to them and their families, not more “safety”. This project has acquired a life of its own and has been both misrepresented and manipulated by those who back it.
Thanks,
Vic
Putnam Valley/Kent Cliffs
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR DOMENIC VOLPE:
VOLPE AND KAPLOWITZ: STATE SENATE GETS FAILING GRADE
FOR TERM – MUST ATTEND ‘SUMMER SCHOOL’!
Domenic Volpe (D-WF), candidate for Westchester County Legislator and County Legislator and Board Vice Chairman Michael B. Kaplowitz (D-I-WF, Somers), were joined by Peekskill Mayor Mary Foster (D-WF), angry local residents and business owners, at a press conference Tuesday June 30 outside the Westchester County’s Department of Social Services Building on Washington St. in Peekskill to present a year-end ‘report card’ on the performance of the NY State Senate.
“While the Senate fiddles, Westchester taxpayers are getting burned,” said Domenic Volpe, candidate an d local businessman. “Residents of northern Westchester County depend on their state senators to carry local legislation that supports town and city budgets. It’s time to put the politics aside and get down to business.”
“The cost of the State Senate’s immaturity and inaction is going to translate to real dollars for the taxpayers of Westchester County in an already struggling economy,” said Kaplowitz, the immediate past chair and current member of the County Board’s Budget & Appropriations Committee.
According to Kaplowitz, it is appropriate that the NY State Senate receive a report card, similar20to students, at the end of the year’s legislative session. Given the stalemate in Albany, and the incomplete assignment of doing the people’s business, it is no surprise that Kaplowitz gave the dueling state lawmakers a big, fat ‘F’.
“Passing these bills is serious business – the people’s business – and our state senators must stop this madness and get back to work,” stated the democratic county lawmaker. “Just like in school, if you don’t complete the assigned work within the scheduled school year – or in this case, legislative term – then you must go to summer school,” continued Kaplowitz.
“Enough is enough. The taxpayers are relying on their state representatives to discharge their duties and bring the relief they promised to Westchester County residents. They can fight and play games on their own time,” he concluded.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR PUTNAM VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL SAM DAVIS:
Hi Andy,
On June 2nd, I was in Albany, with almost 100 others from around the state. We were there to lobby state legislators to adopt, and vote for our Circuit Breaker legislation (part of our comprehensive property tax relief and reform bill). You can see an article about our visit at: http://www.nysut.org/cps/rde/xchg/nysut/hs.xsl/newyorkteacher_13149.htm
I thought you might find this interesting. Of course, you're free to post it on your blog if you wish.
Have a great day. (I'll be out getting signatures)
Peace,
Sam
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT 12 GRAPES, N.DIVISION STREET, PEEKSKILL:
12 Grapes Wins Westchester Magazine's
Best of Westchester®
Editors' Pick for "Best New Live Music Spot"
Zagat rated 12 Grapes "Very Good to Excellent".
Wine Enthusiast gave 12 Grapes their "Award of Distinction".
And now, the Editors of Westchester Magazine voted 12 Grapes
"Best New Live Music Spot".
Great food, great wine, great music.
How great is that?
For reservations, call 914-737-6624.
**JULY SPECIAL**
Free drink or dessert when you have an early dinner.
Now eating early is really good for you!
Join us for dinner between 5 and 6pm on Thursday, Friday
or Saturday nights and receive a free drink or dessert on the house.
The small print: Offer good July '09 only. Diners must arrive between 5pm and 6pm
and order one entree to receive free drink or dessert. Not valid July 10 or July 31.
Once again, thanks for your patronage and support. Hope to see you soon. Happy 4th of July!!
Rich & Jeannie
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A MESSSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN SCHORR:
PBA OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY, INC. ENDORSES
DAN SCHORR FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY
Pleasantville, NY- June 29...Dan Schorr, the former Westchester and New York City prosecutor running for the office of Westchester County District Attorney (D.A.), today received the coveted Police Benevolent Association of Westchester, Inc. endorsement in his race to replace incumbent D. A. Janet DiFiore.
Mr. Schorr received the endorsement in a unanimous vote.
"The PBA of Westchester endorses Dan Schorr because of his deep prosecutorial experience and his commitment to fully charging violent felons for their crimes," said Joseph Giustino, Chairman of the PBA of Westchester Endorsement Committee. "The PBA of Westchester is also impressed by Mr. Schorr's commitment to crack down on sexual predators in Westchester and provide essential services and protections to victims of domestic violence. The PBA of Westchester is confident that Mr. Schorr will back up the police work of our members and make an outstanding DA."
"The PBA of Westchester endorsement means a great deal to me and I am honored to be running for district attorney with its support," Mr. Schorr said. "Police officers in Westchester risk their lives to protect the public from dangerous criminals, but their arrests need to be backed up in court with vigorous prosecutions. Violent felons receive lenient sentences in easy plea-bargain deals way too often in this county. I am going to change that the day I take office. Public safety requires toughness and vigilance."
Founded in 1913, The PBA of Westchester County, Incorporated is the oldest fraternal organization in Westchester. Comprised of police officers from across Westchester County, the organization seeks to foster good relations between departments and encourages service to the community.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PEEKSKILL GOP:
HANZLIK CALLS 11th HOUR TAX MEETING " DISGRACEFUL"
The Republican candidate for Peekskill Mayor described a special meeting of the Peekskill Common Council Friday, June 19, "a disgrace" and declared that Mayor Foster owes every citizen of Peekskill an apology.
Christopher S. Hanzlik, who also has been designated as the candidate for Mayor by the Conservative and Independence parties, said "It is bad enough that the Foster Administration would push to impose new taxes on Peekskill's property owners and the one current business that offers overnight accommodations to residents and travelers, but to call for a special meeting of the Common Council at the 11th hour on a Friday evening is a disgrace and suggests that this administration has nothing but disdain for the citizens they were elected to serve."
He also challenged the way the meeting was called. "The responsibility for calling the special meeting is murky since the only notice given to city council members was in the form of an e-mail late Wednesday afternoon, an e-mail which was sent by a city hall secretary asking if the council members 'would be available' for a special meeting on Friday evening."
Hanzlik said the City Code allows for a special meeting to be called by the Mayor or any two council members upon notice to the entire council, at least two days prior to the date fixed for the meeting. It was not until Thursday, the day before the special meeting, that the council members were given notice that there would in fact be a meeting the following evening to deal with a Home Rule Message resolution to the city's State representatives requesting that the City be allowed to impose two new taxes. One of the new taxes would be a Transfer Tax on the sale of real estate and the other would be a Hotel/Motel tax which would be charged to those who stay at Peekskill's only such facility, the Peekskill Motor Inn and a possible second facility that has been approved to be constructed at Charles Point.
Hanzlik asked, "Who, would call for a meeting to be held on a Friday night with less than 24 hour notice to the council members and no public notice to speak of?"
He answered his own question: "Only someone with something to hide." "Mayor Foster and the council members who supported her have stooped to new lows in public accountability and transparency with this action. The Mayor, with the support of her council majority, introduced the idea of including these taxes in their 2009 budget discussions almost 9 months ago. To wake up last Wednesday and all of a sudden come to the realization that she needed a special meeting on a Friday night to ask for the State's permission to impose them shows how deceitful politicians can be," Mr. Hanzlik went on to say.
Hanzlik is running for mayor of Peekskill along with Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington who are running for city council. Hanzlik concluded his statement by promising to repeal these taxes if the State were to allow Peekskill to impose them. "I and my running mates reject the request of Mayor Foster and her cohorts to impose more taxes on Peekskill's citizens and visitors. These taxes will make an already bad economic situation worse for our citizens and job producing businesses. I can tell you one thing for sure, when we are elected, one of our first acts will be to take whatever steps are necessary to repeal these taxes. And this will be done at a regular meeting of the Common Council on a regular day and time."
Go Peekskill
Contact Vincent C. Vesce
(914) 393-2241
http://www.peekskillgop.com
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PEEKSKILL REPUBLICAN SLATE EMBRACES OROS / TESTA POSITION ON ASSESSMENT BILL
Joining the position expressed by County Legislator George Oros and Peekskill's former mayor, John Testa, who is running to succeed Oros on the County Legislature, Peekskill Mayoral candidate Chris Hanzlik and his running mates called on the State Senate to reject the "Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill" (S.1706) that has already been approved by the State Assembly.
Hanzlik was joined by, Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington in calling on the State Senate to reject this legislation and have also called on the Peekskill Common Council to pass a resolution expressing the City's opposition to the bill. "This is just one more outrage that a substantial portion of Peekskill's residents would be required to deal with by our state representatives. This selective legislation that targets certain residential and commercial property owners would result in higher taxes just when people are struggling the most. It must be rejected by the State Senate".
City Council candidate Sue Sheridan said, "George Oros and John Testa have it right...this pending legislation would be a disaster for hundreds of our residents and commercial enterprises. Why this selective legislation and why now especially during one of the worst recessions in recent memory"?
Joe Torres, another Republican City Council candidate added, "With my business, I am in and out of dozens and dozens of homes and businesses in Peekskill every single week. I get to talk with a lot of people who live in condos and other types of homes that this assessment bill would apply to and I can tell you they cannot afford to be hit with the type of tax increases this bill would cause. It will drive even more people out of Westchester and NY State. As Peekskill's former mayor, John Testa knows this better than most and I echo his sentiments."
Tony Washington, also a Republican City Council candidate, called on Peekskill's City Council to act in defense of Peekskill residents and business owners who would be affected by this bill. "Given the current economic climate, with people losing their homes and struggling to make ends meet, the Democrat Legislative majority in Albany is stepping on the very people they pretend to champion by adding to the already crushing tax burden faced by our residents and business owners. This bill, if it becomes law, will destroy Westchester's competitive position relative to neighboring counties, since the Democrats carefully crafted it to leave every other county in the state unaffected. Peekskill's current Council and Mayor should realize that this proposed bill will do nothing but hurt our city's ability to grow and prosper. So, in plain English, I call on them to strongly denounce this bill and oppose its' passage in the strongest possible terms."
Chris Hanzlik, Sue Sheridan, Joe Torres and Tony Washington are the designated candidates of the Republican, Conservative and Independence parties for this fall's elections in the City of Peekskill. Respectively, they are running for mayor and the three city council seats that are up for election this year.
Go Peekskill
Contact Vinne Vesce, (914) 393-2241
http://www.peekskillgop.com
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
*Assemblywoman Galef’s Annual Senior Citizen Forum Headlines Storyteller Jonathan Kruk*
Assemblywoman Galef announced that her annual Senior Citizen Forum will feature renowned storyteller Jonathan Kruk of Cold Spring, NY. The Forum will be held *Thursday, July 9 from **9 am** to **12 noon** at **Cortlandt** **Town Hall**, **1 Heady Street*. This year’s theme is *“Let’s Enjoy the **Hudson** **Valley** as We Celebrate the Quadricentennial”*, marking the 400^th anniversary of Henry Hudson sailing up the river that now bares his name. New Yorkers are celebrating this momentous occasion through the summer and fall months. Breakfast will be provided by the Hudson Valley Hospital Center.
Jonathan Kruk will lead off the morning with an entertaining story about Henry Hudson and the Quadricentennial. Jonathan has been sharing his creative stories for many years, giving about 300 performances and workshops per year. Jonathan was selected /"Best Storyteller in the //Hudson// //Valley//"/ by Hudson Valley Magazine and The New York Times has described him as "Westchester’s intrepid storyteller". Jonathan has appeared on P.B.S., The Travel and History Channels.
The Forum will follow with a variety of speakers on the Quadricentennial, tourism in the Hudson Valley, and local events for both seniors and their families. Kim Sinistore, Director of the Westchester County Department of Tourism, will discuss local Quadricentennial events along with descriptions of local tourism sites for everyone to visit. Valerie Hickman, Director of the Putnam County Visitors Bureau, will discuss events coming up in Putnam County as well as tourism sites and local Quadricentennial events. Barbara Fratianni, Assistant Director of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission, will describe upcoming Quadricentennial Events in the region and throughout New York State. John Dennehey, Senior Planner of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area and Hudson River Valley Greenway will be presenting wonderful information on local historical sites. Lastly, Dr. Gary Phillips, a board certified endocrinologist at Hudson Valley Hospital Center, will share his knowledge of living healthy with diabetes and diabetes prevention.
Hudson Valley Hospital Center is sponsoring the Forum. Co-sponsors are: Bethel Homes and Services, Briarcliff Manor Seniors, Buchanan Senior Citizen Club, Cold Spring Senior Nutrition Center, Cortlandt Seniors, Crompond Seniors, Croton Senior Citizens, Drum Hill Senior Living, Nor-Cort Seniors, Ossining Golden Age Club #1, Ossining Senior Center, Ossining Senior Citizens, Peekskill Senior Citizen’s Club, Philipstown Senior Citizens, Putnam County AARP Chapter 1183, Putnam County Office of the Aging, Putnam Valley Seniors, Verplanck Seniors, and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services.
For more information about the event please contact Sara Rubin in Galef’s district office at (914) 941-1111 or by e-mailing rubins@assembly.state.ny.us
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Sales Tax Extensions Made Automatic for Countie
Leaders Throughout New York Hail Legislation Introduction
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef introduced legislation (A.8754/S5922) permanently authorizing counties, cities, and school districts to impose up to a four percent rate of sales and compensating use taxes. If passed, these entities would not have to seek legislative approval for tax increases up to 4% every two years. Five counties would be authorized to impose sales and use taxes at rates in excess of 4% for two years.
“If this legislation were law, our city, town, county, and school district leaders and officials wouldn’t be as apprehensive and, quite frankly, distressed as they are right now given the stalemate in the New York State Senate,” said Assemblywoman Sandy Galef. (The Senate is deadlocked at 31 votes for each party and no agreement regarding the leadership composition). “There are close to fifty bills in the Assembly and Senate that can’t be enacted because of the current impasse. As a consequence, municipal and school entities throughout the state are facing million dollar shortfalls in their budgets. This is an untenable position for local officials; they may be forced to raise property taxes on the already overburdened homeowner.”
Current state law authorizes counties, cities, and school districts to impose up to a three percent rate of tax, and also authorizes more than 50 counties and six cities to impose additional rates of tax in excess of three percent for two year periods. There are 57 counties outside New York City that impose general sales and use taxes at the current maximum authorized rate of three percent, with more than fifty counties imposing additional rates , ranging from 1/8% to ¼%. All must have their sales tax authority renewed by the New York State Legislature every other year.
“Under the current system, sales tax legislation is often rushed through the state Legislature at the last minute, leaving local governments uncertain about incoming revenues. This is especially true this year, given the gridlock in the State Senate,” said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo. “This is an attempt to streamline state government so that it is more efficient and user-friendly for municipalities.”
Putnam County Executive Bob Bondi today thanked Assemblywoman Sandra Galef for introducing the Putnam County Sales Tax extension bill. Putnam County will receive $ 13 million annually as a result of this Legislation. Without this Legislation, Putnam County property taxpayers would see their County tax bills rise by 36%. Bondi stated, “Assemblywoman Galef understands the tremendous burden that property taxpayers bear in the Hudson Valley , and we appreciate her efforts to provide real property tax relief while avoiding the devastating cuts in services that Putnam County residents want and need.”
"This is a common sense piece of legislation that will provide counties and taxpayers with greater certainty during an uncertain time," said Stephen J. Acquario, executive director of the New York State Association of Counties.
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Galef’s Legislation Permitting Electronic Court Appearances in Putnam County
Passes State Assembly
Putnam County Officials Praise Its Passage
(June 30, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced passage of her Assembly bill A8096/S5084, which would allow defendants to appear electronically at court proceedings in Putnam County. The Putnam County Executive, Board of Legislators and the County Sheriff requested the legislation to save taxpayer money and increase government efficiency by allowing defendants to appear electronically in connection with a criminal action (except for hearings and trials).
“With the passage of this bill Putnam County will join twenty-six other counties, including Westchester, in New York State that have the authority to conduct electronic court appearances,” said Galef. “Giving the courts in Putnam County the authority to decide whether or not it is necessary to see a defendant in connection with criminal actions will not only cut costs for taxpayers it will also enhance public safety. It also preserves the rights for those accused of a crime since they will still appear in person at critical junctures of the proceedings such as a hearing or trial.”
The legislation takes advantage of new technology that has proven effective in other parts of the state and country. By setting up a closed-circuit, audio-visual system inside a designated space in the Putnam County Correctional Facility, defendants can be present for many parts of the judicial process without being physically transported to the County Courthouse. Currently, Putnam County Correction Officers transport about two hundred detainees and prisoners to different courts across the county every year. The use of electronic court appearances would reduce the number of these transports, thereby reducing labor costs, transportation-related expenses, and has the additional advantage of protecting the environment through reduced vehicular emissions.
"This is a good example of how government at all levels can work together to accomplish the goal of making government more economic and efficient. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved and are hopeful that all approvals will occur in time to realize savings during our next fiscal year," said Putnam County Executive Robert Bondi.
Mary Ellen Odell, Putnam County Legislator and Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability (Commission) said: “On behalf of my co-chair, Neil Sullivan and Commission members, I want to thank Assemblywoman Galef for this legislation that would allow defendants to appear before a judge electronically instead of in-person. It is gratifying when a state legislator takes our recommendation to streamline Putnam County government and transforms it into reality. It is also a testament to our Commission members who come from all walks of life, political parties, public, and private sectors to work together and find ways to make government more efficient and save Putnam County residents’ money. This bill is a grand slam; it reduces our payroll significantly, decreases field transportation costs, and enhances public safety. It is a significant achievement, reducing costs while still carrying out mandatory governmental functions.”
“There are so many new forms of technology available to us, and as a result it is no longer necessary to transport defendants to and from local courts for every appearance,” said Galef. “I know this legislation is going to relieve some of the economic burden placed on my constituents in Putnam. The measures provided in this legislation will go a long way to furthering my commitment to limiting waste in New York State , both economically and environmentally,” Galef concluded.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
ONE MISSED CALL: HALL CASTS DECIDING VOTE FOR JOB-KILLING CLIMATE BILL
Ball unleashes dialing campaign to sound alarm; Restore America’s Promise
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson), a candidate for the House of Representatives in New York’s 19th congressional district, sent an automated message to residents of Dutchess and Putnam Counties yesterday, lambasting Congress for passing the Waxman-Markey ‘Cap and Tax’ bill (H.R. 2454), which he calls the “largest job killing bill ever.”
“Albany is a disaster, and in Washington, our own Congressman was one of the deciding votes for cap and trade, a national energy tax that will cost your family sixteen hundred dollars,” a Ball voiceover says during the call. “Have you had enough?”
The American Clean Energy and Security Act, otherwise know as ‘Cap and Trade’ or ‘Cap and Tax’ is major comprehensive energy legislation that many economists expect to cost tens of thousands of jobs in New York State. While some have launched misleading statements the bill would create jobs, even liberal economist Paul Krugman, a strong proponent of the bill, conceded to NPR yesterday that at best “employment would be as it would have been otherwise.”
Ball’s prospective 2010 opponent cast a deciding vote for the measure, which he calls “the largest tax hike in American history” and says would dramatically raise energy prices while New York is in the depths of an economic recession.
The calls, which reached over 40,000 households in the Hudson Valley, invite recipients to the July 6th Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium, where Ball is slated to be a guest-speaker. The April Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium drew over 4,000 angry taxpayers and was the 25th largest in the nation.
Listen to the call here: http://assemblymangball.com/gb062909b.wav
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TEA PARTY PATRIOTS PREPARE FOR ROUND 2 AT DUTCHESS STADIUM
July 6th event stands again to be one of nation's largest
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson) has been invited to be a guest speaker at the July 6th Tax Day Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill.
Ball, a candidate for the House of Representatives in New York's 19th district, says the event is an opportunity to bolster his efforts to create a taxpayer resistance against the MTA payroll tax, and rally support around state and federal efforts for a comprehensive forensic accounting of the MTA and the Federal Reserve, respectively.
"The freedom to assemble and protest is something uniquely American," Ball said. "King George wanted only 10% and there was a revolt, and now our government is asking for over 50%. Not so far from Dutchess stadium, is a historic marker commemorating the Fishkill Tea Party in 1776. By banding together with blue collar workers and small business owners from all over the Hudson Valley, I'm confident we can duplicate their success."
During his speech, Ball is expected to call on the United States Senate to defeat the Waxman-Markey 'Cap and Tax' Bill, which many independent experts are calling the largest tax increase in American history, and was narrowly passed through the House of Representatives with a deciding vote from his opponent.
"It doesn't take a rocket scientist, or a rock-star for that matter, to figure out that passing a job-killer like Cap and Tax during one of the deepest economic recessions in a generation is bad for everyone," Ball added. "Washington needs to wakeup. Throughout the Hudson Valley, I hear day after day how people are desperate for real leadership, someone who will take on the Washington insiders and provide a real, independent voice for the thousands of residents like those at the Hudson Valley Tea Party. I may only be an average American, but I know I can be that voice, and I am ready to help restore America's promise."
On April 15, 2009, the Fishkill Tea Party made history by being the 25th largest tea party in the nation out of the 750 events held nationwide. For more information on the event, visit www.fishkillteaparty.com .
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I discuss national health care. 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:
DOMENIC VOLPE: www.votefordomenicvolpe.com
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/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
CORTLANDT MANOR CIVIC ASSOCIATION: www.cortlandtcivic.com
GOPAC: gohudblogs.com
PEEKSILL NEWS: http://peekskillnews.blogspot.com/
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: www.yorktownopengov.org
DAILY DOSE OF DUMB: http://www.dailydoseofdumb.com/
PADAVANO FINE ARTS: Padovanofineart.com
MARK DREXEL: www.ElectDrexel.com
ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL: www.Ball4NY.com
SUSAN SIEGEL: www.wakeupyorktown.com
CORTLANDT CHOICE: WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON (yOrktown and Putnam Valley only)
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI (Yorktown only)
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Domenic 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
SPEAK OUT WITH SANDY GALEF: Yorktown chanel 74 Wednesdays at 7:30PM..Ossining/Peekskill chanel 15 Wednesdays at 8PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DEAR SANDY: Yorktown chanel 74 Fridays 7:30PM...Ossining/Peeksill chanel 15 Fridays
9PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DOWN THE MIDDLE: Yorktown chanel 74 wednesdays 8-9PM.
Hosted By: Mike Thomas & Bill Greenberg
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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
07/04/09
Saturday, June 27, 2009
DISSECTING DISTRICT ONE
Issues Discussed: 1)my commentary on above topic
2)cable t.v. update
RE: The Volpe Report
3)e-mail from reader Tom from Peekskill
4) message from candidate for Westchester Legislator John Testa
5) what's happening at Graymoor, Garrison
6) what's happening at 12 Grapes N. Division Street, Peekskill
7) a message from candidate for Yorktown Council Terrence Murphy
8) message from candidate for Yorktown Council Mark Drexel
9) message from candidate for Yorktown Supervisor Susan Seigel
10) message from Putnam County Legislator Anthony Fusco
11) message from candidate for Westchester District Attorney
Dan Schorr
12) message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
13) message from Assemblyman Greg Ball
************My new In My Opinion column's topic of discussion in the NCN ************Atom Taxi Inc. Airport Service
************Contact me e-mail addresses
************Sites to link to for more information(to be a better voter)
************Cable shows to watch(to better inform)
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Dear Readers:
In this weeks "In My Opinion" column in the NCN in which I give an overview of some of the local races, I have been taken to task on some of my conclusions. People involved in those races have begged to differ. The one race in particular that I have received flack from is the race for County Legislative District 1 between John Testa and Domenic Volpe. I will explain how I came to that conclusion.
Mind you I did not pick a winner, at this point in time I can not. I just said this is the race to watch, as it will be decided by the write in votes. Also please note, I am personal friends with both candidates. I will state that if I did not live in this district, I would pay good money to just to live in this district to watch.
In the past two races incumbent George Oros was a candidate. He is not now. In the past two races Domenic Volpe closed the margin of victory. In the first race, Oros had the Independence line, in the second Volpe had it. In this race Testa has it. Without this line John could not win, for even though Oros did not have it the last time, he still had the power of incumbency, something neither present candidate has and it can not be dismissed. This is one reason why this race will be close. The power of incumbency guarantees press coverage for the incumbent. The challenger rarely gets any. In this case any coverage of this race, both candidates will get equal treatment, no edge.
Since 2006 the Democratic voter registration drives in this district, especially Peekskill has been remarkable. The Republican drive non-existent. In point of fact, the Peekskill Democrats registered more Republicans then the Peekskkill Republicans. One would be a fool to discount the disparity in the number of registered Republicans vs. Democrats. I am not that fool. Get out the vote ability, which the Democrats have proven they have and to date,and in the last two elections the Republicans have been remiss, will be a major factor.
In the past two races, Oros had friendly local Republican controlled governments in Peekskill and Yorktown. He also, as a resident of Corltlandt had a working relationship with the government of Cortlandt even though it was Democrat controlled. This year all the local governing bodies in this district are Democrat controlled, and unless something changes I do not see them helping Testa get votes. However, as all the districts have full strong Republican slates running, fully engaged, especially for the first time in years, Cortlandt, this helps John. Again a wash.
Domenic has run a district race twice, John has not. Each part of the district has their own issues, some competing. It is a different race. However John has waged successful campaigns in Peekskill, which has a majority of registered Democrats, and has a strong record as Mayor to run on.
Both are lifetime residents of the district, and have strong ties to the community, deep roots and both in their own way involved in many community groups. Both are personally honest and men of integrity. Both know how to run a campaign. Though I would give John the edge in political savvy. Even his detractors know how astute he is politically, and that counts for much. In fact what I know about inside politics, I learned from John, ever the teacher.
No matter how you dissect it, no one is going to run away with this. I stand by my conclusion. The candidates may still beg to differ, but at least they know how I came to it.
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CABLE T.V. UPDATE:
RE: THE VOLPE REPORT:
Andy;
The Volpe Report
Hosted by Domenic Volpe
The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the special guest for this week is none other than John Curran, City of Peekskill Historian.
Just a side note- John is one of the more popular guests the Volpe Report continues to bring on and talk with. This week Mr. Curran's three topics are 1) Jackie Gleason and the Round House in Cortlandt, 2) The Liberty Ships which were docked across the river south of Bear Mountain Bridge- sometimes known as the Mothball fleet and 3) just a quick reference to the recession of 1920-1929 and similarities to the current one.
The Volpe Report can be seen on Public Access channel 15 in the Peekskill/Cortlandt area Thursday at 8:00pm. The Yorktown/Putnam Valley area can see them on Public Access channel 74 Thursdays at 6:0pm.
Thanking you and hope all enjoy a happy and safe July 4.--
Domneic Volpe
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E-MAIL FROM READER TOM FROM PEEKSKILL:
Dear Bazzomanifesto:
A careful read of the legislation regarding the condo and co-op assessments is required. There are some exemptions worth noting such as developments that received grants to aid in its development, common to affordable housing programs. Its should also be noted that, the tax in question appears to have been enacted already for cities of 1,000,000 residents or more.
Tom
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER LEGISLATOR JOHN TESTA:
Testa/Oros Oppose Condo Assessment Bill
Call on State Senate to Reject Legislation
June 23, 2009
Former Mayor of Peekskill and candidate for County Legislator John Testa was joined today by County Legislator George Oros in opposition to the "Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill" (1706-A) now in front of the NY State Legislature.
The bill, already passed by the State Assembly, now needs approval by the Senate. Testa and Oros are calling for the Senate to reject this legislation.
The pending legislation would increase property tax assessments on condominiums, cooperative apartments, rental apartments and commercial buildings. If passed, a targeted group of property owners would be forced to pay higher municipal, school and county taxes. This bill is written to apply to only one county in all of New York, Westchester.
"This legislation will have a devastating effect on thousands of property owners in Northern Westchester." Testa said. "As a former mayor I know how disastrous this would be for taxpayers. Anyone who lives in a condo, co-op, townhouse or rental apartment will see their living costs go up dramatically," Testa added.
"This is another example of just how out of touch our state leaders in Albany are with their constituents," Oros said. "It wasn't bad enough that the Hudson Valley region was socked with the Mobility Tax but with this legislation taxpayers will be whacked again. This is outrageous and demonstrates a blatant lack of leadership."
"Many who live in condominiums, cooperative apartments and rental apartments are senior citizens looking for an affordable way to live. Many young adults also rely on this type of housing as they graduate college or start a family," said Testa.
Oros also criticized members of the Assembly for keeping Westchester in the dark about the measure. Neither public hearings, nor any conversation with elected officials took place.
"Why be so secretive about it? Could it be that this is something they wanted to sneak in at the end of session when everyone was already making summer plans and not paying attention to the circus in Albany?" Oros remarked. "Our Westchester delegation has a lot of explaining to do."
According to Testa "This law would also negatively impact the small businesses of Westchester County. Times are tough enough already, with many businesses barely hanging on now. This would be the death knell to a large number of them. It must be stopped."
Both Testa and Oros are calling on all residents of Westchester, especially those who live in condominiums, cooperative apartments, rental units and commercial property owners, to join them in contacting their State Senate representatives to vote against this bill.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GRAYMOOR, GARRISON, N.Y.
MONDAY, June 29th
GRAYMOOR GOLF CLASSIC
The tenth annual Graymoor Gold Classic will be held Monday, June 29th, at the Mount Kisco Country Club. For information, call (845)424-3671 X3126.
THURSDAY, July 2nd, to SUNDAY, July 5th
ANNUAL FAMILY RETREAT
Graymoor's annual Family Retreat begins Thursday evening, July 2nd, and ends after Sunday dinner on July 5th. Mix family prayer with family fun without breaking the bank. This year's theme is "Scripture Safari." For information/registration, contact the Graymoor Spiritual Life Center at (845)424-2111.
WEDNESDAY, July 22nd, and WEDNESDAY, August 5th
CAREER COACHING
Lost your job? Worried about Job security? Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York will offer a free two-part program by Ms. Ann Ruecker, a certified professional career coach on two Wednesdays -- July 22nd and August 5th -- at 6:30 PM at Graymoor. Learn the "Do's" and "Don't's" ofnetworking and tactics for finding a job in a difficult market. Those who attend the two-part session will be eligible for individual follow-up coaching sessions. Interested? Call Karen Reynolds at (914)476-2700 X212.
N.B. Thanks to all who helped make the St. Anthony pilgrimages the past two weekends so successful. Special thanks to Sheriff Donald Smith, the Putnam County Deputies, the New York State Police, the New York State Department of Transportation, Putnam-Dutchess REACT, and, last but not least, our volunteers: Sheila Barticcciotto, Joyce Evans, Maryann Martinez, Clara O'Neill, Mark Peretti and James Sullivan.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT 12 GRAPES, N.DIVISION STREET, PEEKSKILL:
Project/Object
Featuring the original members of
The Frank Zappa Band!
Thursday, July 2, 9:00 - 12:00
Project/Object stops at 12 Grapes before their European tour!
Project/Object is a band dedicated to carrying out Zappa's final message to his fans, "Play my music." Their goal is to present the music as it was recorded, but also to respect and develop the creative "live" aspect that Zappa always pushed his band towards. The band features one of the founding members of the Zappa Band, André Cholmondeley, as well as other "Zappa Alum" from the '70's and '80's: Ike Willis and Don Preston, Ed Mann, Dave Johnsen,
Eric Svalgard and Eric Slick.
Make your reservations. Call 914-737-6624
$20 Entertainment Fee for all, including diners
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A MESSAGE FROM CANIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL TERRENCE MURPHY:
Murphy Brings Green Energy to Yorktown
Town Board Candidate Walks the Walk
Surrounded by supporters, local officials, and candidates, Terrence Murphy (R,I) unveiled the newest addition to Murphy’s Restaurant and Bar. Hidden behind the hustle and bustle of one of Yorktown’s busiest kitchens now sits one of Yorktown’s first green energy suppliers.
“I am very excited to announce Murphy’s Restaurant has officially embraced green energy by installing a geothermal pump,” Murphy said. “This is a one of a kind installment which will raise the bar for my fellow entrepreneurs to follow.”
“This is just the first step of many for our restaurant,” Murphy added, “we will be looking to invest in other forms of green energy such as solar panels, green plastic bags, and batteries.”
Murphy was joined by Assemblyman Greg Ball and County Legislator George Oros, both whom voiced support for green energy initiatives.
“Green energy is a common sense concept. I encourage my fellow business owners to follow my lead on this issue,” Murphy stated. “If anyone is interested in investing in green energy I will personally give them a tour of our addition and explain to them why this is a smart investment and how to go about achieving it.”
“Throughout this campaign the residents of this town will see I don’t just talk the talk but I walk the walk. This does not apply only to green energy but fighting for lower taxes and the safety of our children,” Murphy concluded.
In April, Murphy formally announced his candidacy for town board. Since then he has been endorsed by both the Republican and Independence Party.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL MARK DREXEL:
A report from a colleague of mine that might interest you:
The Assembly concluded its business for the regularly scheduled 2009 Legislative Session at approximately 2 a.m. this morning. The Assembly now stands adjourned at the call of the Speaker. The Assembly is not expected to return to Albany until possibly September when the state is expected to face a budget shortfall once again.
Yesterday afternoon Governor David Paterson called an Extraordinary Senate Session for today at 3 p.m. in response to the ongoing leadership dispute between Democrats and Republicans that has brought the work of passing bills in the Senate to a halt. The Governor said he will call the Senate into session today to vote on 55 largely noncontroversial legislative issues, including an extension for the Power for Jobs program, local government sales tax "extenders," New York City mayoral control, and a number of other bills affecting local governments. If both Republicans and Democrats heed the Governor’s call today for a special session and then act on the Governor’s list of bills, the Senate could then follow the Assembly in adjourning for the summer.
Yesterday, Senate Republicans and Bronx Democrat Pedro Espada once again attempted to call the Senate into session, but failed to produce a quorum when Democrats refused to enter the chamber. Senator Dean Skelos (R-Nassau/Suffolk) ended the session yesterday by saying the GOP-led coalition would gavel in again at 2 p.m. today, an hour ahead of the Governor's timetable. Democrats, however, are not expected to enter the chamber.
Paterson added that he would call the Senate back "every day until the people's business is discharged and deliberations are held on a number of important issues" -- including legislative reform, fiscal discipline and gay marriage. This seemed to signal anticipation that the full Senate – either the Republicans or the Democrats – might not appear for today’s special session.
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A report from a colleague of mine that might interest you:
> Senate Democrats and Republicans are following Gov. Paterson's call to hold a special session this afternoon after he threatened Wednesday to take them to court and withhold their paychecks if they left Albany.
> The sides are meeting this morning behind closed doors to continue discussions on whether the Senate leadership battle can be resolved to end the nearly three-week leadership dispute.
> Paterson threatened to take the sides to court after Senate Democrats initially refused to re-enter the chamber because they claimed Paterson'S call of a special session was illegal.
> Late last night, however, Paterson issued a statement saying the sides will agree to meet in session today. It so, this will be the first time since the June 8 leadership coup that they'll be meeting in the same session.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN SUPERVISOR SUSAN SIEGEL:
Press Release from Susan Siegel
Republican Candidate for Yorktown Town Supervisor
June 24, 2009
Democrats Are Misleading Yorktown's Seniors
Planning for a Yorktown Senior Center is in total disarray according to Susan Siegel, Republican Party candidate for Yorktown Supervisor. Siegel accused the Democrats of a total lack of leadership and direction on the senior issue that has been festering for over two years. “It’s not fair to the seniors,” Siegel said.
“Everyone agrees that something needs to be done to provide our seniors with a more modern, attractive, safe and better equipped place to meet” Siegel said. “But nothing is being done to get people working together to come up with a plan that has any chance of becoming a reality. Instead, the Democratic administration has been spinning its wheels and valuable planning time and staff resources have been wasted.”
Calling the Democrats’s most recent actions “empty and disingenuous,” Siegel, herself a senior, said she felt as if she was on roller coaster ride: one day, the board votes to move forward on a plan that its says will give us the center we want. But the next day, it turns out that the board’s plan is most likely unworkable.”
The latest fiasco in the planning for a senior center occurred at the town board’s June 23rd work session during a presentation on the need for a new, stand-alone senior center that supposedly could be funded by a combination of grants, private donations and fund raising, including $330,000 in anticipated federal money.
As an example of the confusion that has surrounded the senior issue, Siegel cited the contradictory “facts” about the highly publicized $330,000 that Congressman John Hall is supposed to be making available for the proposed new center.
At the board’s June 16th meeting, Democratic Councilman Jim Martorano said that the $330,000 could be used for rent as part of a lease-to-purchase plan that would make the construction of a new senior center financially feasible.
But at the board’s June 23rd work session, Catherine D’Amato, the chairperson of a senior committee promoting the construction of a new center, told the assembled seniors that the $330,000 could only be used for programs, not rent or capital costs. She also said that if the town didn’t have a plan in place to use the program money by December, 2009, it would lose it.
Also at the June 23rd meeting, Democratic Supervisor Don Peters suggested that perhaps “unofficially,” some of the “program” money could be siphoned off for other purposes. He didn’t elaborate on what he meant or on what the town was planning to do if and when it actually received the $330,000.
“Yorktown’s seniors have lived long enough to have learned that there’s no Santa Claus. They’re too smart to be taken in by flim-flam and politically motivated promises,” Siegel said.
What needs to be done, Siegel stressed, is to get representatives of the various senior groups together with other members of the community, and at least one town board member, to undertake an honest examination of the different options and then to come up with a realistic plan that has a chance of being implemented in the lifetime of today’s seniors.
Susan Siegel for Supervisor
419 Granite Springs Road
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(914) 245-2661 Fax: (914) 245-2630
susan@wakeupyorktown.com www.wakeupyorktown.com
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A MESSAGE FROM PUTNAM COUNTY LEGISLATOR ANTHONY FUSCO:
Saturday, June 27th, Community Cares Hosts a Volunteer/Sponsor Appreciation Day at Sycamore Park in Mahopac, from Noon to 4pm.
Community Cares will express its appreciation to the many donors, sponsors and community volunteers who give of their time, money and business resources. 150-200 Guests are expected
Community Cares, serving Putnam and Northern Westchester, is a non-profit organization with a network of volunteers and businesses whose main goal is to support families in medical crisis. They specifically aid families with school-aged children whose parent is undergoing a major medical diagnosis. Their services include meals, wash and fold services, and house cleaning.
Community Cares stands ready to help parents with serious illnesses that have young children to care for; whether it is a cancer diagnosis, an MS relapse or some other debilitating illness. Raising children is challenging enough without dealing with life threatening health issues. They provide those everyday services that become more difficult in the midst of medical treatment. Their services are only temporary, and they reassess the needs of their “clients” every few months.
They offer:
Home Delivery of Meals
House cleaning Services
Laundry Services
Volunteer matching for Childcare and Babysitting Services
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN SCHORR:
ASTORINO, SCHORR URGE GOVERNOR TO MOVE LEGISLATION TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM SEX PREDATORS
Bill Would Prevent Child Molesters from
Living Within 1,000-Feet of a School, Playground or Library
Mount Kisco, NY-June 27...Convicted sex predators are living in Westchester County today, steps from where children congregate--on playgrounds, at schools, and in libraries--because a popular bill in Albany to prevent them from doing so cannot get onto the floor of the State Assembly and Senate for a vote, Westchester County District Attorney candidate Dan Schorr (R) and Westchester County Executive candidate Rob Astorino (R-I) today said.
Mr. Astorino and Schorr called on Governor David Paterson to add the bill, which would prevent convicted sex predators from living within 1,000 feet of a playground, library or school, to a list of legislation he is expected to present to the State Legislature for consideration this summer in an emergency special legislative session. Mr. Astorino, a former County Legislator, and Mr. Schorr, a former Assistant District Attorney in Westchester and New York City, said the legislation would pass with "overwhelming bi-partisan support" if it was voted on today.
Mr. Schorr and Mr. Astorino made their call in Mount Kisco, where two convicted Level 2 sex offenders live near playgrounds. There are three categories of sex offenders: Level 1 (low risk of repeat offense); Level 2 (moderate risk of repeat offense), and Level 3 (high risk of repeat offense.) A complete list of sex predators in New York is available to the public at: http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor/
"As a long-time prosecutor I'm sorry to say that this is not an unusual occurrence," Mr. Schorr said. "Sex predators often move near places where children gather. I urge Governor Paterson in the strongest possible terms to insist on a vote this summer to keep this from happening. These are scenarios that too often end in tragedy."
"Child molesters shouldn't be living near children," Mr. Astorino said. "This is so patently obvious that it defies belief that it's still allowed to happen. This legislation would pass in the blink of an eye if it was put on the floor in the Senate and Assembly, yet it continues to languish in committee. Governor Paterson has an opportunity to strike a great victory for common sense and child safety this summer by demanding a vote on this bill."
Mr. Astorino and Mr. Schorr said that as County Executive and District Attorney, respectively, they would explore legal avenues to prohibit sex predators from living near playgrounds, schools, and libraries in Westchester County if the State Legislature refuses to act.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
*Assemblywoman Galef Holds Press Conferences on
4% County Sales Tax Authorization
and Putnam County Electronic Appearance Legislation 4% Sales Tax*
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef will hold a press conference at the Putnam County Office Building/Historic Courthouse with Putnam County Deputy Executive John Tully and members of the Putnam County Legislature. The focus is her legislation (A8765/S5299) that authorizes counties, cities, and school districts to impose a sales tax up to 4% without requesting the New York State Legislature’s approval every two years. This year the Assembly passed sales tax extenders while the Senate remains deadlocked over leadership issues jeopardizing the budgets of counties, school districts, and cities.
*Putnam County Electronic Court Appearance *
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef will hold a press conference with County Legislator Mary Ellen Odell, Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability, and members of the Commission to discuss legislation (A8096/S5084) that allows defendants to electronically appear before a judge rather than in-person.
The press conferences will take place as follows:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009*
11AM** * Putnam County Office Building and Courthouse
40, 44 & 48th Gleneida Avenue and 20 Fair Street
Carmel, NY 10512
http://www.putnamcountyny.com/directions/40gleneidaavcarmel.htm
For more information or directions, contact Sandy’s district office 2 Church St., Ossining (914) 941-1111 or e-mail Sara Rubin at rubins@assembly.state.ny.us. For day-of contact information, call Sara Rubin at (914) 261-5503.
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Assemblywoman Galef’s Legislation Permitting Electronic Court Appearances in Putnam County Passes State Assembly
Putnam County Officials Praise Its Passage
(June 25, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced passage of her Assembly bill A8096/S5084, which would allow defendants to appear electronically at court proceedings in Putnam County. The Putnam County Executive, Board of Legislators and the County Sheriff requested the legislation to save taxpayer money and increase government efficiency by allowing defendants to appear electronically in connection with a criminal action, except for hearings and trials.
“With the passage of this bill Putnam County will join twenty-six other counties, including Westchester, in New York State that have the authority to conduct electronic court appearances,” said Galef. “Giving the courts in Putnam County the authority to decide whether or not it is necessary to see a defendant in connection with criminal actions will not only cut costs for taxpayers it will also enhance public safety. It also preserves the rights for those accused of a crime since they will still appear in person at critical junctures of the proceedings such as a hearing or trial.”
The legislation takes advantage of new technology that has proven effective in other parts of the state and country. By setting up a closed-circuit, audio-visual system inside a designated space in the Putnam County Correctional Facility, defendants can be present for many parts of the judicial process without being physically transported to the County Courthouse. Currently, Putnam County Correction Officers transport about two hundred detainees and prisoners to different courts across the county every year. The use of electronic court appearances would reduce the number of these transports, thereby reducing labor costs, transportation-related expenses, and has the additional advantage of protecting the environment through reduced vehicular emissions.
"This is a good example of how government at all levels can work together to accomplish the goal of making government more economic and efficient. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved and are hopeful that all approvals will occur in time to realize savings during our next fiscal year," said Putnam County Executive Robert Bondi.
Mary Ellen Odell, Putnam County Legislator and Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability (Commission) said: “On behalf of my co-chair, Neil Sullivan and Commission members, I want to thank Assemblywoman Galef for this legislation that would allow defendants to appear before a judge electronically instead of in-person. It is gratifying when a state legislator takes our recommendation to streamline Putnam County government and transforms it into reality. It is also a testament to our Commission members who come from all walks of life, political parties, public, and private sectors to work together and find ways to make government more efficient and save Putnam County residents’ money. This bill is a grand slam; it reduces our payroll significantly, decreases field transportation costs, and enhances public safety. It is a significant achievement, reducing costs while still carrying out mandatory governmental functions.”
“There are so many new forms of technology available to us, and as a result it is no longer necessary to transport defendants to and from local courts for every appearance,” said Galef. “I know this legislation is going to relieve some of the economic burden placed on my constituents in Putnam. The measures provided in this legislation will go a long way to furthering my commitment to limiting waste in New York State , both economically and environmentally,” Galef concluded.
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Subject: Galef Letter to Editor-Senate Inaction Harmful to NY State
June 24, 2009
To the Editor:
What is taking place right now in the New York State Senate offers people another opportunity to become extremely frustrated with the state legislature. People have stopped me asking if I have been working. I can assure you that I have. Sometimes the responsibilities of the two houses in New York State can be confusing. However, during our session the Assembly was able to complete a very large agenda.
The Assembly passed many important bills. This included bills that would not impose unfunded mandates on other governments which might result in increased property taxes, legislation that would keep people safe, and bills that would help with basic needs.
One of my major concerns is that most of the 1,252 bills which the Assembly passed have not been voted on in the Senate. Of particular importance, bills that allow both Putnam and Westchester counties to continue to have their county sales taxes must be approved by the state. The Assembly has approved the bills, but without Senate action, no sales tax could mean increased property taxes to make up for lost revenues. Certainly none of us would like this to happen.
To keep our businesses here, the Assembly has approved legislation to continue providing low cost power to certain companies in our state. That is also in jeopardy because of the Senate’s inaction.
The bills we passed will keep our state competitive and green, and help our residents with health care and consumer issues. Hopefully the Senate will find a way to complete the job they were elected to do for all New Yorkers.
Sincerely,
Sandy Galef
Member of Assembly
90th District
(914) 941-1111
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
"GIVE MTA MORE MONEY?...
GET THE 'HALL' OUT OF HERE," BALL SAYS
Second bailout, for runaway authority: troublesome, mind boggling proposal
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson), leading a regional fight to form a 'taxpayer resistance' against the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) payroll tax, is questioning what he says is a badly planned "second bailout" passed by the House of Representatives lastweek that allows the MTA to use federal stimulus funds for operating costs.
Ball joined with other Hudson Valley lawmakers in penning a letter to Congressman John Hall (D, WF - Dover), which states that "In a recent press release you took credit for amending the limitations on how the $110 million in federal stimulus money secured for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) can be used, enabling them to be used for operating expenses, rather than capital improvements alone. In your release you noted that this is "more than enough to end the payroll tax on Hudson Valley counties." This is simply not the case, Ball contends.
In the letter, Ball points out that the state hopes to raise about $1.5 billion from the "nefarious" payroll tax annually, which charges 34 cents for every $100 of payroll in the 12-county MTA region. The payroll tax, which is now New York State law, would not be affected by Hall's amendment to the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009, though the Congressman's provision has serious negative implications for the agencies' capital budget and further drains stimulus dollars that were intended to put the Hudson Valley back to work.
"The funds given to New York through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act were supposed to be used for shovel-ready capital projects, to employ blue collar New Yorkers, and keep our building trades strong. This money was not supposed to be used to fill the spending gaps of wayward authorities that are riddled with incompetence and corruption," Ball, who serves as Ranking Member of the Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions and has oversight of the MTA, stated earlier today. "Before the MTA receives a cent of the ill-conceived payroll tax, a criminal, forensic accounting must take place, and while I understand the Congressman's urge to try to keep a step ahead politically, he really stepped in it this time, out of political haste, by attempting to put good money after bad without addressing the root cause of the MTA payroll tax problem - which is mismanagement, lack of transparency and corruption. Without repealing this tax this new bailout will just further facilitate the MTA's addiction to secrecy and bloated spending."
Funds given to New York through ARRA gave New York a total of $1.22 billion in Federal Transit Aid assistance, of which the MTA is expected to get $908.9 million for use on capital projects. The measure, inserted by the current Congressman and passed by the House of Representatives this Tuesday, allows the MTA, an authority with billions in cost overruns and historic mismanagement, to use up to 10% of their capital project ARRA funding to pay operating expenses.
"Without a repeal of the payroll tax, the Congressman is simply squeezing already overburdened Hudson Valley taxpayers and rewarding an incompetent New York City authority with another ill conceived bailout," Ball said, while highlighting his www.auditthemta.com website. "Instead of using stimulus dollars to pay for the MTA's operating expenses, the Congressman should immediately join our fight to repeal the payroll tax, establish a formalized tax resistance in the Hudson Valley and demand an immediate and forensic accounting of the MTA's books."
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BALL SAYS ‘NO’ TO NATIONAL ENERGY TAX
LARGEST TAX HIKE IN U.S. HISTORY
Urges Congress to defeat Waxman-Markey ‘Cap & Tax’ bill
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson) urged members of the House of Representatives to vote "no" on the American Clean Energy and Security Act, a national energy tax, which many independent experts are calling the largest tax increase in American history.
“Reducing our carbon footprint is one of the most pressing issues facing us as elected officials,” Ball said. “Sustainable conservation should be based on incentives, and not a national energy tax based on government mandates. People need to urge our Congressman to vote against Waxman-Markey. This will devastate American families and the Hudson Valley economy. The Hudson Valley would be one of the hardest hit areas by this legislation, which could cause over 46,000 job losses within the 19th Congressional District, and a $1.4 billion dollar loss per year in our gross state product.”
The figures cited by Ball (Table 1, WM 2504: "How the Waxman-Markey Climate Change Bill Would Affect the States, by Congressional District", Heritage Foundation) have raised similar ire throughout the country from Democrats and Republicans, many of whom point to the far-reaching implications of the tax bill, which would even replace local building codes with new federal ones.
Ball says he favors an approach based on less government intervention, and that would favor alternative energies such as hydro power, clean coal, wind, solar and geothermal energies, as well as the expansion of zero free emissions nuclear energy, and highlighted his state legislation to eliminate taxes on alternative energy sources (A4731/S3150), create green-collar jobs (A8359), and establish a state energy planning board to create a state energy plan and process for the siting of electric generating facilities (A7250).
“I would hope that our representative from the 19th congressional district would have the the common sense, to vote 'no' on this job-killing bill, which amounts to the largest tax increase in U.S. history,” Ball concluded.
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*BALL RESO CALLS FOR FED AUDIT
*/Measure would call for roll-call votes on HR 1207 to open Uncle Sam’s
books/**
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson) believes that giving one
institution too much power is dangerous, and has drafted a resolution
that would call on New York’s congressional delegation to seek roll-call
votes on HR 1207, Congressman Ron Paul’s “Audit the Fed” bill.
“New Yorkers are reeling from a tough economy and are absolutely fed up
with bailouts for Wall Street and run-amok institutions like the MTA.
New Yorkers, a diverse slice of main street America, are fed up with the
lack of accountability, transparency, and oversight from government
institutions, and it is time for this legislature to get behind HR 1207.
I am demanding that our federal representatives bring it to the floor of
the House of Representatives for debate.” Ball said. “It is time to
ensure that unelected bodies like the Fed, and the MTA, become
accountable and responsive to the electorate. It’s time for the sunlight
of good government to shine in and serve as a disinfectant on the Fed.”
HR 1207, and S 604, its Senate companion, would require full
transparency from the Federal Reserve for the first time in history and
remove all restrictions from Government Accountability Office (GAO)
audits of the Fed. There are already 242 House cosponsors for HR 1207.
Provisions of HR 1207 include:
* Requiring the Government Accountability Office to perform a
complete audit of the Fed by the end of 2010
* Revealing the details of agreements the Fed has made with foreign
central banks and governments
* Showing which banks and Wall Street firms have received our money
from the Fed
Ball’s legislative resolution asks that the state legislature make every
effort to seek roll call votes by their federal counterparts in the
United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate.
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Dear Neighbor
In recent weeks, I have fielded hundreds of calls from constituents concerned with both DWI and the ongoing deterioration of the Village of Brewster. Rightfully so, many residents are outraged and are furious, over a heartbreaking and tragic loss that could have been avoided.
Please know that this tragedy, and these conversations, have affected me personally and deeply, and out of respect for the family and the severity of this horrific tragedy, I have refused commenting to the press.
It is important for the community to know that I am working diligently, behind the scenes, with other elected officials to address the core issues that are important to you and the community at large.
On June 29th, to begin to develop a specific and targeted strategy in response to both DWI and illegal housing, hiring, I am hosting an Emergency Session of local officials and leaders.
Since being elected, I have been active, specifically on the issue of illegal housing and hiring, but I have needed, and until recently have not had, broad based support to get these initiatives adopted. Similarly, on DWI, there is much that can be done if all elected officials in the county and beyond work together as a team.
Putnam County has been rocked by DWI related deaths in the past. I will continue to support a zero tolerance approach to DWI and will be introducing extremely stringent state legislation in the next few weeks, which will mimic some of the strongest legislation in the nation.
On the issue of illegal immigration, my position is clear. Even when not politically popular, I have taken tough, commonsense stands – even when it meant standing alone.
For more than three years, I have been trying to move our community forward to embrace a crack down on illegal housing and illegal hiring. This has not been an easy task, and there are those who oppose even commonsense measures that simply enforce existing law.
My resolve has never been greater to reverse the deterioration of the Village, and to address the quality of life issues, from DWI to illegal housing-hiring, continuing to threaten to shatter the sanctity of our community.
Once I have finished reaching out to all officials, and developed a strong sense for what action items they are willing to adopt, I will be back in touch with my constituency. Please continue to send me your emails, thoughts and concerns at gball@ball4ny.com .
My goal is to unveil a comprehensive set of initiatives that can be taken up, immediately, at the state, county and local level.
Greg Ball
Member of Assembly
(845) 279-5301
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I give an overview of the local races. 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:
DOMENIC VOLPE: www.votefordomenicvolpe.com
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/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
CORTLANDT MANOR CIVIC ASSOCIATION: www.cortlandtcivic.com
GOPAC: gohudblogs.com
PEEKSILL NEWS: http://peekskillnews.blogspot.com/
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: www.yorktownopengov.org
DAILY DOSE OF DUMB: http://www.dailydoseofdumb.com/
PADAVANO FINE ARTS: Padovanofineart.com
MARK DREXEL: www.ElectDrexel.com
ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL: www.Ball4NY.com
SUSAN SIEGEL: www.wakeupyorktown.com
CORTLANDT CHOICE: WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON (yOrktown and Putnam Valley only)
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI (Yorktown only)
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Domenic 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
SPEAK OUT WITH SANDY GALEF: Yorktown chanel 74 Wednesdays at 7:30PM..Ossining/Peekskill chanel 15 Wednesdays at 8PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DEAR SANDY: Yorktown chanel 74 Fridays 7:30PM...Ossining/Peeksill chanel 15 Fridays
9PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DOWN THE MIDDLE: Yorktown chanel 74 wednesdays 8-9PM.
Hosted By: Mike Thomas & Bill Greenberg
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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
06/28/09
2)cable t.v. update
RE: The Volpe Report
3)e-mail from reader Tom from Peekskill
4) message from candidate for Westchester Legislator John Testa
5) what's happening at Graymoor, Garrison
6) what's happening at 12 Grapes N. Division Street, Peekskill
7) a message from candidate for Yorktown Council Terrence Murphy
8) message from candidate for Yorktown Council Mark Drexel
9) message from candidate for Yorktown Supervisor Susan Seigel
10) message from Putnam County Legislator Anthony Fusco
11) message from candidate for Westchester District Attorney
Dan Schorr
12) message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
13) message from Assemblyman Greg Ball
************My new In My Opinion column's topic of discussion in the NCN ************Atom Taxi Inc. Airport Service
************Contact me e-mail addresses
************Sites to link to for more information(to be a better voter)
************Cable shows to watch(to better inform)
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Dear Readers:
In this weeks "In My Opinion" column in the NCN in which I give an overview of some of the local races, I have been taken to task on some of my conclusions. People involved in those races have begged to differ. The one race in particular that I have received flack from is the race for County Legislative District 1 between John Testa and Domenic Volpe. I will explain how I came to that conclusion.
Mind you I did not pick a winner, at this point in time I can not. I just said this is the race to watch, as it will be decided by the write in votes. Also please note, I am personal friends with both candidates. I will state that if I did not live in this district, I would pay good money to just to live in this district to watch.
In the past two races incumbent George Oros was a candidate. He is not now. In the past two races Domenic Volpe closed the margin of victory. In the first race, Oros had the Independence line, in the second Volpe had it. In this race Testa has it. Without this line John could not win, for even though Oros did not have it the last time, he still had the power of incumbency, something neither present candidate has and it can not be dismissed. This is one reason why this race will be close. The power of incumbency guarantees press coverage for the incumbent. The challenger rarely gets any. In this case any coverage of this race, both candidates will get equal treatment, no edge.
Since 2006 the Democratic voter registration drives in this district, especially Peekskill has been remarkable. The Republican drive non-existent. In point of fact, the Peekskill Democrats registered more Republicans then the Peekskkill Republicans. One would be a fool to discount the disparity in the number of registered Republicans vs. Democrats. I am not that fool. Get out the vote ability, which the Democrats have proven they have and to date,and in the last two elections the Republicans have been remiss, will be a major factor.
In the past two races, Oros had friendly local Republican controlled governments in Peekskill and Yorktown. He also, as a resident of Corltlandt had a working relationship with the government of Cortlandt even though it was Democrat controlled. This year all the local governing bodies in this district are Democrat controlled, and unless something changes I do not see them helping Testa get votes. However, as all the districts have full strong Republican slates running, fully engaged, especially for the first time in years, Cortlandt, this helps John. Again a wash.
Domenic has run a district race twice, John has not. Each part of the district has their own issues, some competing. It is a different race. However John has waged successful campaigns in Peekskill, which has a majority of registered Democrats, and has a strong record as Mayor to run on.
Both are lifetime residents of the district, and have strong ties to the community, deep roots and both in their own way involved in many community groups. Both are personally honest and men of integrity. Both know how to run a campaign. Though I would give John the edge in political savvy. Even his detractors know how astute he is politically, and that counts for much. In fact what I know about inside politics, I learned from John, ever the teacher.
No matter how you dissect it, no one is going to run away with this. I stand by my conclusion. The candidates may still beg to differ, but at least they know how I came to it.
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CABLE T.V. UPDATE:
RE: THE VOLPE REPORT:
Andy;
The Volpe Report
Hosted by Domenic Volpe
The Volpe Report is pleased to announce the special guest for this week is none other than John Curran, City of Peekskill Historian.
Just a side note- John is one of the more popular guests the Volpe Report continues to bring on and talk with. This week Mr. Curran's three topics are 1) Jackie Gleason and the Round House in Cortlandt, 2) The Liberty Ships which were docked across the river south of Bear Mountain Bridge- sometimes known as the Mothball fleet and 3) just a quick reference to the recession of 1920-1929 and similarities to the current one.
The Volpe Report can be seen on Public Access channel 15 in the Peekskill/Cortlandt area Thursday at 8:00pm. The Yorktown/Putnam Valley area can see them on Public Access channel 74 Thursdays at 6:0pm.
Thanking you and hope all enjoy a happy and safe July 4.--
Domneic Volpe
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E-MAIL FROM READER TOM FROM PEEKSKILL:
Dear Bazzomanifesto:
A careful read of the legislation regarding the condo and co-op assessments is required. There are some exemptions worth noting such as developments that received grants to aid in its development, common to affordable housing programs. Its should also be noted that, the tax in question appears to have been enacted already for cities of 1,000,000 residents or more.
Tom
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER LEGISLATOR JOHN TESTA:
Testa/Oros Oppose Condo Assessment Bill
Call on State Senate to Reject Legislation
June 23, 2009
Former Mayor of Peekskill and candidate for County Legislator John Testa was joined today by County Legislator George Oros in opposition to the "Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill" (1706-A) now in front of the NY State Legislature.
The bill, already passed by the State Assembly, now needs approval by the Senate. Testa and Oros are calling for the Senate to reject this legislation.
The pending legislation would increase property tax assessments on condominiums, cooperative apartments, rental apartments and commercial buildings. If passed, a targeted group of property owners would be forced to pay higher municipal, school and county taxes. This bill is written to apply to only one county in all of New York, Westchester.
"This legislation will have a devastating effect on thousands of property owners in Northern Westchester." Testa said. "As a former mayor I know how disastrous this would be for taxpayers. Anyone who lives in a condo, co-op, townhouse or rental apartment will see their living costs go up dramatically," Testa added.
"This is another example of just how out of touch our state leaders in Albany are with their constituents," Oros said. "It wasn't bad enough that the Hudson Valley region was socked with the Mobility Tax but with this legislation taxpayers will be whacked again. This is outrageous and demonstrates a blatant lack of leadership."
"Many who live in condominiums, cooperative apartments and rental apartments are senior citizens looking for an affordable way to live. Many young adults also rely on this type of housing as they graduate college or start a family," said Testa.
Oros also criticized members of the Assembly for keeping Westchester in the dark about the measure. Neither public hearings, nor any conversation with elected officials took place.
"Why be so secretive about it? Could it be that this is something they wanted to sneak in at the end of session when everyone was already making summer plans and not paying attention to the circus in Albany?" Oros remarked. "Our Westchester delegation has a lot of explaining to do."
According to Testa "This law would also negatively impact the small businesses of Westchester County. Times are tough enough already, with many businesses barely hanging on now. This would be the death knell to a large number of them. It must be stopped."
Both Testa and Oros are calling on all residents of Westchester, especially those who live in condominiums, cooperative apartments, rental units and commercial property owners, to join them in contacting their State Senate representatives to vote against this bill.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GRAYMOOR, GARRISON, N.Y.
MONDAY, June 29th
GRAYMOOR GOLF CLASSIC
The tenth annual Graymoor Gold Classic will be held Monday, June 29th, at the Mount Kisco Country Club. For information, call (845)424-3671 X3126.
THURSDAY, July 2nd, to SUNDAY, July 5th
ANNUAL FAMILY RETREAT
Graymoor's annual Family Retreat begins Thursday evening, July 2nd, and ends after Sunday dinner on July 5th. Mix family prayer with family fun without breaking the bank. This year's theme is "Scripture Safari." For information/registration, contact the Graymoor Spiritual Life Center at (845)424-2111.
WEDNESDAY, July 22nd, and WEDNESDAY, August 5th
CAREER COACHING
Lost your job? Worried about Job security? Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York will offer a free two-part program by Ms. Ann Ruecker, a certified professional career coach on two Wednesdays -- July 22nd and August 5th -- at 6:30 PM at Graymoor. Learn the "Do's" and "Don't's" ofnetworking and tactics for finding a job in a difficult market. Those who attend the two-part session will be eligible for individual follow-up coaching sessions. Interested? Call Karen Reynolds at (914)476-2700 X212.
N.B. Thanks to all who helped make the St. Anthony pilgrimages the past two weekends so successful. Special thanks to Sheriff Donald Smith, the Putnam County Deputies, the New York State Police, the New York State Department of Transportation, Putnam-Dutchess REACT, and, last but not least, our volunteers: Sheila Barticcciotto, Joyce Evans, Maryann Martinez, Clara O'Neill, Mark Peretti and James Sullivan.
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT 12 GRAPES, N.DIVISION STREET, PEEKSKILL:
Project/Object
Featuring the original members of
The Frank Zappa Band!
Thursday, July 2, 9:00 - 12:00
Project/Object stops at 12 Grapes before their European tour!
Project/Object is a band dedicated to carrying out Zappa's final message to his fans, "Play my music." Their goal is to present the music as it was recorded, but also to respect and develop the creative "live" aspect that Zappa always pushed his band towards. The band features one of the founding members of the Zappa Band, André Cholmondeley, as well as other "Zappa Alum" from the '70's and '80's: Ike Willis and Don Preston, Ed Mann, Dave Johnsen,
Eric Svalgard and Eric Slick.
Make your reservations. Call 914-737-6624
$20 Entertainment Fee for all, including diners
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A MESSAGE FROM CANIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL TERRENCE MURPHY:
Murphy Brings Green Energy to Yorktown
Town Board Candidate Walks the Walk
Surrounded by supporters, local officials, and candidates, Terrence Murphy (R,I) unveiled the newest addition to Murphy’s Restaurant and Bar. Hidden behind the hustle and bustle of one of Yorktown’s busiest kitchens now sits one of Yorktown’s first green energy suppliers.
“I am very excited to announce Murphy’s Restaurant has officially embraced green energy by installing a geothermal pump,” Murphy said. “This is a one of a kind installment which will raise the bar for my fellow entrepreneurs to follow.”
“This is just the first step of many for our restaurant,” Murphy added, “we will be looking to invest in other forms of green energy such as solar panels, green plastic bags, and batteries.”
Murphy was joined by Assemblyman Greg Ball and County Legislator George Oros, both whom voiced support for green energy initiatives.
“Green energy is a common sense concept. I encourage my fellow business owners to follow my lead on this issue,” Murphy stated. “If anyone is interested in investing in green energy I will personally give them a tour of our addition and explain to them why this is a smart investment and how to go about achieving it.”
“Throughout this campaign the residents of this town will see I don’t just talk the talk but I walk the walk. This does not apply only to green energy but fighting for lower taxes and the safety of our children,” Murphy concluded.
In April, Murphy formally announced his candidacy for town board. Since then he has been endorsed by both the Republican and Independence Party.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL MARK DREXEL:
A report from a colleague of mine that might interest you:
The Assembly concluded its business for the regularly scheduled 2009 Legislative Session at approximately 2 a.m. this morning. The Assembly now stands adjourned at the call of the Speaker. The Assembly is not expected to return to Albany until possibly September when the state is expected to face a budget shortfall once again.
Yesterday afternoon Governor David Paterson called an Extraordinary Senate Session for today at 3 p.m. in response to the ongoing leadership dispute between Democrats and Republicans that has brought the work of passing bills in the Senate to a halt. The Governor said he will call the Senate into session today to vote on 55 largely noncontroversial legislative issues, including an extension for the Power for Jobs program, local government sales tax "extenders," New York City mayoral control, and a number of other bills affecting local governments. If both Republicans and Democrats heed the Governor’s call today for a special session and then act on the Governor’s list of bills, the Senate could then follow the Assembly in adjourning for the summer.
Yesterday, Senate Republicans and Bronx Democrat Pedro Espada once again attempted to call the Senate into session, but failed to produce a quorum when Democrats refused to enter the chamber. Senator Dean Skelos (R-Nassau/Suffolk) ended the session yesterday by saying the GOP-led coalition would gavel in again at 2 p.m. today, an hour ahead of the Governor's timetable. Democrats, however, are not expected to enter the chamber.
Paterson added that he would call the Senate back "every day until the people's business is discharged and deliberations are held on a number of important issues" -- including legislative reform, fiscal discipline and gay marriage. This seemed to signal anticipation that the full Senate – either the Republicans or the Democrats – might not appear for today’s special session.
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A report from a colleague of mine that might interest you:
> Senate Democrats and Republicans are following Gov. Paterson's call to hold a special session this afternoon after he threatened Wednesday to take them to court and withhold their paychecks if they left Albany.
> The sides are meeting this morning behind closed doors to continue discussions on whether the Senate leadership battle can be resolved to end the nearly three-week leadership dispute.
> Paterson threatened to take the sides to court after Senate Democrats initially refused to re-enter the chamber because they claimed Paterson'S call of a special session was illegal.
> Late last night, however, Paterson issued a statement saying the sides will agree to meet in session today. It so, this will be the first time since the June 8 leadership coup that they'll be meeting in the same session.
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN SUPERVISOR SUSAN SIEGEL:
Press Release from Susan Siegel
Republican Candidate for Yorktown Town Supervisor
June 24, 2009
Democrats Are Misleading Yorktown's Seniors
Planning for a Yorktown Senior Center is in total disarray according to Susan Siegel, Republican Party candidate for Yorktown Supervisor. Siegel accused the Democrats of a total lack of leadership and direction on the senior issue that has been festering for over two years. “It’s not fair to the seniors,” Siegel said.
“Everyone agrees that something needs to be done to provide our seniors with a more modern, attractive, safe and better equipped place to meet” Siegel said. “But nothing is being done to get people working together to come up with a plan that has any chance of becoming a reality. Instead, the Democratic administration has been spinning its wheels and valuable planning time and staff resources have been wasted.”
Calling the Democrats’s most recent actions “empty and disingenuous,” Siegel, herself a senior, said she felt as if she was on roller coaster ride: one day, the board votes to move forward on a plan that its says will give us the center we want. But the next day, it turns out that the board’s plan is most likely unworkable.”
The latest fiasco in the planning for a senior center occurred at the town board’s June 23rd work session during a presentation on the need for a new, stand-alone senior center that supposedly could be funded by a combination of grants, private donations and fund raising, including $330,000 in anticipated federal money.
As an example of the confusion that has surrounded the senior issue, Siegel cited the contradictory “facts” about the highly publicized $330,000 that Congressman John Hall is supposed to be making available for the proposed new center.
At the board’s June 16th meeting, Democratic Councilman Jim Martorano said that the $330,000 could be used for rent as part of a lease-to-purchase plan that would make the construction of a new senior center financially feasible.
But at the board’s June 23rd work session, Catherine D’Amato, the chairperson of a senior committee promoting the construction of a new center, told the assembled seniors that the $330,000 could only be used for programs, not rent or capital costs. She also said that if the town didn’t have a plan in place to use the program money by December, 2009, it would lose it.
Also at the June 23rd meeting, Democratic Supervisor Don Peters suggested that perhaps “unofficially,” some of the “program” money could be siphoned off for other purposes. He didn’t elaborate on what he meant or on what the town was planning to do if and when it actually received the $330,000.
“Yorktown’s seniors have lived long enough to have learned that there’s no Santa Claus. They’re too smart to be taken in by flim-flam and politically motivated promises,” Siegel said.
What needs to be done, Siegel stressed, is to get representatives of the various senior groups together with other members of the community, and at least one town board member, to undertake an honest examination of the different options and then to come up with a realistic plan that has a chance of being implemented in the lifetime of today’s seniors.
Susan Siegel for Supervisor
419 Granite Springs Road
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
(914) 245-2661 Fax: (914) 245-2630
susan@wakeupyorktown.com www.wakeupyorktown.com
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A MESSAGE FROM PUTNAM COUNTY LEGISLATOR ANTHONY FUSCO:
Saturday, June 27th, Community Cares Hosts a Volunteer/Sponsor Appreciation Day at Sycamore Park in Mahopac, from Noon to 4pm.
Community Cares will express its appreciation to the many donors, sponsors and community volunteers who give of their time, money and business resources. 150-200 Guests are expected
Community Cares, serving Putnam and Northern Westchester, is a non-profit organization with a network of volunteers and businesses whose main goal is to support families in medical crisis. They specifically aid families with school-aged children whose parent is undergoing a major medical diagnosis. Their services include meals, wash and fold services, and house cleaning.
Community Cares stands ready to help parents with serious illnesses that have young children to care for; whether it is a cancer diagnosis, an MS relapse or some other debilitating illness. Raising children is challenging enough without dealing with life threatening health issues. They provide those everyday services that become more difficult in the midst of medical treatment. Their services are only temporary, and they reassess the needs of their “clients” every few months.
They offer:
Home Delivery of Meals
House cleaning Services
Laundry Services
Volunteer matching for Childcare and Babysitting Services
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A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN SCHORR:
ASTORINO, SCHORR URGE GOVERNOR TO MOVE LEGISLATION TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM SEX PREDATORS
Bill Would Prevent Child Molesters from
Living Within 1,000-Feet of a School, Playground or Library
Mount Kisco, NY-June 27...Convicted sex predators are living in Westchester County today, steps from where children congregate--on playgrounds, at schools, and in libraries--because a popular bill in Albany to prevent them from doing so cannot get onto the floor of the State Assembly and Senate for a vote, Westchester County District Attorney candidate Dan Schorr (R) and Westchester County Executive candidate Rob Astorino (R-I) today said.
Mr. Astorino and Schorr called on Governor David Paterson to add the bill, which would prevent convicted sex predators from living within 1,000 feet of a playground, library or school, to a list of legislation he is expected to present to the State Legislature for consideration this summer in an emergency special legislative session. Mr. Astorino, a former County Legislator, and Mr. Schorr, a former Assistant District Attorney in Westchester and New York City, said the legislation would pass with "overwhelming bi-partisan support" if it was voted on today.
Mr. Schorr and Mr. Astorino made their call in Mount Kisco, where two convicted Level 2 sex offenders live near playgrounds. There are three categories of sex offenders: Level 1 (low risk of repeat offense); Level 2 (moderate risk of repeat offense), and Level 3 (high risk of repeat offense.) A complete list of sex predators in New York is available to the public at: http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor/
"As a long-time prosecutor I'm sorry to say that this is not an unusual occurrence," Mr. Schorr said. "Sex predators often move near places where children gather. I urge Governor Paterson in the strongest possible terms to insist on a vote this summer to keep this from happening. These are scenarios that too often end in tragedy."
"Child molesters shouldn't be living near children," Mr. Astorino said. "This is so patently obvious that it defies belief that it's still allowed to happen. This legislation would pass in the blink of an eye if it was put on the floor in the Senate and Assembly, yet it continues to languish in committee. Governor Paterson has an opportunity to strike a great victory for common sense and child safety this summer by demanding a vote on this bill."
Mr. Astorino and Mr. Schorr said that as County Executive and District Attorney, respectively, they would explore legal avenues to prohibit sex predators from living near playgrounds, schools, and libraries in Westchester County if the State Legislature refuses to act.
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
*Assemblywoman Galef Holds Press Conferences on
4% County Sales Tax Authorization
and Putnam County Electronic Appearance Legislation 4% Sales Tax*
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef will hold a press conference at the Putnam County Office Building/Historic Courthouse with Putnam County Deputy Executive John Tully and members of the Putnam County Legislature. The focus is her legislation (A8765/S5299) that authorizes counties, cities, and school districts to impose a sales tax up to 4% without requesting the New York State Legislature’s approval every two years. This year the Assembly passed sales tax extenders while the Senate remains deadlocked over leadership issues jeopardizing the budgets of counties, school districts, and cities.
*Putnam County Electronic Court Appearance *
Assemblywoman Sandy Galef will hold a press conference with County Legislator Mary Ellen Odell, Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability, and members of the Commission to discuss legislation (A8096/S5084) that allows defendants to electronically appear before a judge rather than in-person.
The press conferences will take place as follows:
Tuesday, June 30, 2009*
11AM** * Putnam County Office Building and Courthouse
40, 44 & 48th Gleneida Avenue and 20 Fair Street
Carmel, NY 10512
http://www.putnamcountyny.com/directions/40gleneidaavcarmel.htm
For more information or directions, contact Sandy’s district office 2 Church St., Ossining (914) 941-1111 or e-mail Sara Rubin at rubins@assembly.state.ny.us. For day-of contact information, call Sara Rubin at (914) 261-5503.
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Assemblywoman Galef’s Legislation Permitting Electronic Court Appearances in Putnam County Passes State Assembly
Putnam County Officials Praise Its Passage
(June 25, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced passage of her Assembly bill A8096/S5084, which would allow defendants to appear electronically at court proceedings in Putnam County. The Putnam County Executive, Board of Legislators and the County Sheriff requested the legislation to save taxpayer money and increase government efficiency by allowing defendants to appear electronically in connection with a criminal action, except for hearings and trials.
“With the passage of this bill Putnam County will join twenty-six other counties, including Westchester, in New York State that have the authority to conduct electronic court appearances,” said Galef. “Giving the courts in Putnam County the authority to decide whether or not it is necessary to see a defendant in connection with criminal actions will not only cut costs for taxpayers it will also enhance public safety. It also preserves the rights for those accused of a crime since they will still appear in person at critical junctures of the proceedings such as a hearing or trial.”
The legislation takes advantage of new technology that has proven effective in other parts of the state and country. By setting up a closed-circuit, audio-visual system inside a designated space in the Putnam County Correctional Facility, defendants can be present for many parts of the judicial process without being physically transported to the County Courthouse. Currently, Putnam County Correction Officers transport about two hundred detainees and prisoners to different courts across the county every year. The use of electronic court appearances would reduce the number of these transports, thereby reducing labor costs, transportation-related expenses, and has the additional advantage of protecting the environment through reduced vehicular emissions.
"This is a good example of how government at all levels can work together to accomplish the goal of making government more economic and efficient. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved and are hopeful that all approvals will occur in time to realize savings during our next fiscal year," said Putnam County Executive Robert Bondi.
Mary Ellen Odell, Putnam County Legislator and Co-Chair of the Commission on Fiscal Vision and Accountability (Commission) said: “On behalf of my co-chair, Neil Sullivan and Commission members, I want to thank Assemblywoman Galef for this legislation that would allow defendants to appear before a judge electronically instead of in-person. It is gratifying when a state legislator takes our recommendation to streamline Putnam County government and transforms it into reality. It is also a testament to our Commission members who come from all walks of life, political parties, public, and private sectors to work together and find ways to make government more efficient and save Putnam County residents’ money. This bill is a grand slam; it reduces our payroll significantly, decreases field transportation costs, and enhances public safety. It is a significant achievement, reducing costs while still carrying out mandatory governmental functions.”
“There are so many new forms of technology available to us, and as a result it is no longer necessary to transport defendants to and from local courts for every appearance,” said Galef. “I know this legislation is going to relieve some of the economic burden placed on my constituents in Putnam. The measures provided in this legislation will go a long way to furthering my commitment to limiting waste in New York State , both economically and environmentally,” Galef concluded.
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Subject: Galef Letter to Editor-Senate Inaction Harmful to NY State
June 24, 2009
To the Editor:
What is taking place right now in the New York State Senate offers people another opportunity to become extremely frustrated with the state legislature. People have stopped me asking if I have been working. I can assure you that I have. Sometimes the responsibilities of the two houses in New York State can be confusing. However, during our session the Assembly was able to complete a very large agenda.
The Assembly passed many important bills. This included bills that would not impose unfunded mandates on other governments which might result in increased property taxes, legislation that would keep people safe, and bills that would help with basic needs.
One of my major concerns is that most of the 1,252 bills which the Assembly passed have not been voted on in the Senate. Of particular importance, bills that allow both Putnam and Westchester counties to continue to have their county sales taxes must be approved by the state. The Assembly has approved the bills, but without Senate action, no sales tax could mean increased property taxes to make up for lost revenues. Certainly none of us would like this to happen.
To keep our businesses here, the Assembly has approved legislation to continue providing low cost power to certain companies in our state. That is also in jeopardy because of the Senate’s inaction.
The bills we passed will keep our state competitive and green, and help our residents with health care and consumer issues. Hopefully the Senate will find a way to complete the job they were elected to do for all New Yorkers.
Sincerely,
Sandy Galef
Member of Assembly
90th District
(914) 941-1111
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A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
"GIVE MTA MORE MONEY?...
GET THE 'HALL' OUT OF HERE," BALL SAYS
Second bailout, for runaway authority: troublesome, mind boggling proposal
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson), leading a regional fight to form a 'taxpayer resistance' against the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) payroll tax, is questioning what he says is a badly planned "second bailout" passed by the House of Representatives lastweek that allows the MTA to use federal stimulus funds for operating costs.
Ball joined with other Hudson Valley lawmakers in penning a letter to Congressman John Hall (D, WF - Dover), which states that "In a recent press release you took credit for amending the limitations on how the $110 million in federal stimulus money secured for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) can be used, enabling them to be used for operating expenses, rather than capital improvements alone. In your release you noted that this is "more than enough to end the payroll tax on Hudson Valley counties." This is simply not the case, Ball contends.
In the letter, Ball points out that the state hopes to raise about $1.5 billion from the "nefarious" payroll tax annually, which charges 34 cents for every $100 of payroll in the 12-county MTA region. The payroll tax, which is now New York State law, would not be affected by Hall's amendment to the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009, though the Congressman's provision has serious negative implications for the agencies' capital budget and further drains stimulus dollars that were intended to put the Hudson Valley back to work.
"The funds given to New York through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act were supposed to be used for shovel-ready capital projects, to employ blue collar New Yorkers, and keep our building trades strong. This money was not supposed to be used to fill the spending gaps of wayward authorities that are riddled with incompetence and corruption," Ball, who serves as Ranking Member of the Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions and has oversight of the MTA, stated earlier today. "Before the MTA receives a cent of the ill-conceived payroll tax, a criminal, forensic accounting must take place, and while I understand the Congressman's urge to try to keep a step ahead politically, he really stepped in it this time, out of political haste, by attempting to put good money after bad without addressing the root cause of the MTA payroll tax problem - which is mismanagement, lack of transparency and corruption. Without repealing this tax this new bailout will just further facilitate the MTA's addiction to secrecy and bloated spending."
Funds given to New York through ARRA gave New York a total of $1.22 billion in Federal Transit Aid assistance, of which the MTA is expected to get $908.9 million for use on capital projects. The measure, inserted by the current Congressman and passed by the House of Representatives this Tuesday, allows the MTA, an authority with billions in cost overruns and historic mismanagement, to use up to 10% of their capital project ARRA funding to pay operating expenses.
"Without a repeal of the payroll tax, the Congressman is simply squeezing already overburdened Hudson Valley taxpayers and rewarding an incompetent New York City authority with another ill conceived bailout," Ball said, while highlighting his www.auditthemta.com website. "Instead of using stimulus dollars to pay for the MTA's operating expenses, the Congressman should immediately join our fight to repeal the payroll tax, establish a formalized tax resistance in the Hudson Valley and demand an immediate and forensic accounting of the MTA's books."
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BALL SAYS ‘NO’ TO NATIONAL ENERGY TAX
LARGEST TAX HIKE IN U.S. HISTORY
Urges Congress to defeat Waxman-Markey ‘Cap & Tax’ bill
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I - Patterson) urged members of the House of Representatives to vote "no" on the American Clean Energy and Security Act, a national energy tax, which many independent experts are calling the largest tax increase in American history.
“Reducing our carbon footprint is one of the most pressing issues facing us as elected officials,” Ball said. “Sustainable conservation should be based on incentives, and not a national energy tax based on government mandates. People need to urge our Congressman to vote against Waxman-Markey. This will devastate American families and the Hudson Valley economy. The Hudson Valley would be one of the hardest hit areas by this legislation, which could cause over 46,000 job losses within the 19th Congressional District, and a $1.4 billion dollar loss per year in our gross state product.”
The figures cited by Ball (Table 1, WM 2504: "How the Waxman-Markey Climate Change Bill Would Affect the States, by Congressional District", Heritage Foundation) have raised similar ire throughout the country from Democrats and Republicans, many of whom point to the far-reaching implications of the tax bill, which would even replace local building codes with new federal ones.
Ball says he favors an approach based on less government intervention, and that would favor alternative energies such as hydro power, clean coal, wind, solar and geothermal energies, as well as the expansion of zero free emissions nuclear energy, and highlighted his state legislation to eliminate taxes on alternative energy sources (A4731/S3150), create green-collar jobs (A8359), and establish a state energy planning board to create a state energy plan and process for the siting of electric generating facilities (A7250).
“I would hope that our representative from the 19th congressional district would have the the common sense, to vote 'no' on this job-killing bill, which amounts to the largest tax increase in U.S. history,” Ball concluded.
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*BALL RESO CALLS FOR FED AUDIT
*/Measure would call for roll-call votes on HR 1207 to open Uncle Sam’s
books/**
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson) believes that giving one
institution too much power is dangerous, and has drafted a resolution
that would call on New York’s congressional delegation to seek roll-call
votes on HR 1207, Congressman Ron Paul’s “Audit the Fed” bill.
“New Yorkers are reeling from a tough economy and are absolutely fed up
with bailouts for Wall Street and run-amok institutions like the MTA.
New Yorkers, a diverse slice of main street America, are fed up with the
lack of accountability, transparency, and oversight from government
institutions, and it is time for this legislature to get behind HR 1207.
I am demanding that our federal representatives bring it to the floor of
the House of Representatives for debate.” Ball said. “It is time to
ensure that unelected bodies like the Fed, and the MTA, become
accountable and responsive to the electorate. It’s time for the sunlight
of good government to shine in and serve as a disinfectant on the Fed.”
HR 1207, and S 604, its Senate companion, would require full
transparency from the Federal Reserve for the first time in history and
remove all restrictions from Government Accountability Office (GAO)
audits of the Fed. There are already 242 House cosponsors for HR 1207.
Provisions of HR 1207 include:
* Requiring the Government Accountability Office to perform a
complete audit of the Fed by the end of 2010
* Revealing the details of agreements the Fed has made with foreign
central banks and governments
* Showing which banks and Wall Street firms have received our money
from the Fed
Ball’s legislative resolution asks that the state legislature make every
effort to seek roll call votes by their federal counterparts in the
United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate.
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Dear Neighbor
In recent weeks, I have fielded hundreds of calls from constituents concerned with both DWI and the ongoing deterioration of the Village of Brewster. Rightfully so, many residents are outraged and are furious, over a heartbreaking and tragic loss that could have been avoided.
Please know that this tragedy, and these conversations, have affected me personally and deeply, and out of respect for the family and the severity of this horrific tragedy, I have refused commenting to the press.
It is important for the community to know that I am working diligently, behind the scenes, with other elected officials to address the core issues that are important to you and the community at large.
On June 29th, to begin to develop a specific and targeted strategy in response to both DWI and illegal housing, hiring, I am hosting an Emergency Session of local officials and leaders.
Since being elected, I have been active, specifically on the issue of illegal housing and hiring, but I have needed, and until recently have not had, broad based support to get these initiatives adopted. Similarly, on DWI, there is much that can be done if all elected officials in the county and beyond work together as a team.
Putnam County has been rocked by DWI related deaths in the past. I will continue to support a zero tolerance approach to DWI and will be introducing extremely stringent state legislation in the next few weeks, which will mimic some of the strongest legislation in the nation.
On the issue of illegal immigration, my position is clear. Even when not politically popular, I have taken tough, commonsense stands – even when it meant standing alone.
For more than three years, I have been trying to move our community forward to embrace a crack down on illegal housing and illegal hiring. This has not been an easy task, and there are those who oppose even commonsense measures that simply enforce existing law.
My resolve has never been greater to reverse the deterioration of the Village, and to address the quality of life issues, from DWI to illegal housing-hiring, continuing to threaten to shatter the sanctity of our community.
Once I have finished reaching out to all officials, and developed a strong sense for what action items they are willing to adopt, I will be back in touch with my constituency. Please continue to send me your emails, thoughts and concerns at gball@ball4ny.com .
My goal is to unveil a comprehensive set of initiatives that can be taken up, immediately, at the state, county and local level.
Greg Ball
Member of Assembly
(845) 279-5301
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THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I give an overview of the local races. 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:
DOMENIC VOLPE: www.votefordomenicvolpe.com
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/
THE PEEKSILL NEWS:http://thepeekskillnews.blogspot.com/
CORTLANDT MANOR CIVIC ASSOCIATION: www.cortlandtcivic.com
GOPAC: gohudblogs.com
PEEKSILL NEWS: http://peekskillnews.blogspot.com/
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: www.yorktownopengov.org
DAILY DOSE OF DUMB: http://www.dailydoseofdumb.com/
PADAVANO FINE ARTS: Padovanofineart.com
MARK DREXEL: www.ElectDrexel.com
ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL: www.Ball4NY.com
SUSAN SIEGEL: www.wakeupyorktown.com
CORTLANDT CHOICE: WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
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CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON (yOrktown and Putnam Valley only)
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI (Yorktown only)
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: Domenic 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
SPEAK OUT WITH SANDY GALEF: Yorktown chanel 74 Wednesdays at 7:30PM..Ossining/Peekskill chanel 15 Wednesdays at 8PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DEAR SANDY: Yorktown chanel 74 Fridays 7:30PM...Ossining/Peeksill chanel 15 Fridays
9PM
Hosted by: Sandra Galef
DOWN THE MIDDLE: Yorktown chanel 74 wednesdays 8-9PM.
Hosted By: Mike Thomas & Bill Greenberg
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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
06/28/09
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