ISSUES DISCUSSED IN THIS BLOG:
1) cable t.v. update
2) a message from candidate for Yorktown Council David Paganelli
3) message from candidate for Westchester Legislator Domenic Volpe
4) message from the Yorktown and Somers Democratic Committees
5) e-mail from reader Joseph from Peekskill
6) e-mail from reader Vic from Peekskill
7) message from Westchester Legislator George Oros
8) message from candidate for Yorktown Council Mark Drexel
9) message from the Yorktown Watchdog
10) what's happening at 12 Grapes N. Division Street, Peekskill
11) a message from Cortlandt Choice
12) a message from Putnam Legislator Anthony Fusco
13) message from candidate for Westchester District Attorney Dan Schorr
14) a message from Assemblywoman Sandra Galef
15) 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)
*************************************************************************************
CABLE T.V. UPDATE:
RE: THE VOLPE REPORT:
Andy-
The Volpe Report
Host, Domenic Volpe, is pleased to announce the special guest this week will be the Mayor of the City of Peekskill, Mary Foster. Domenic and Mary talk about the activities that have taken place since she last came onto the show and what lies in the future for Peekskill.
The Volpe Report segments can be viewed in the Peekskill/Cortlandt area on public access Channel 15 -Thursdays at 8:00pm and in the Yorktown/Put.Valley areas -public access Channel 74- Wednesdays at 6:00pm.
Thanks--
Domenic Volpe
**********************
Cable-TV Update
Here's a second chance to meet Susan Siegel, candidate for Yorktown Town Supervisor, and learn more about her background, why she's running, and what changes she'd like to see in Yorktown. .
Susan's interviews with two Channel 74 hosts will be broadcast again the week of June 22nd.
Monday, June 22nd, 8pm, "30 Minutes"
Wednesday, June, 24th, 4:30pm, "Watchdog Report"
For more information about Susan, please visit her web site, www.wakeupyorktown.com
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
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKTOWN COUNCIL DAVID PAGANELLI:
DAVE PAGANELLI FOR YORKTOWN TOWN COUNCIL
Pure of Heart Representation For The Citizens Of Yorktown
For years Dave & Travelers Rest has supported various Charities in our Community because he feels it’s the right thing to do. Now he needs our help to bring doing the right thing to the next level.
Come show your support for Dave.
Join us for a fun night with way too much food
responsible drinking and exhaustive dancing
Where: Travelers Rest
Date: June 25, 2009
Time: 7:00 pm to whenever
Cost: $60 per person
Dinner, Dancing, Open Bar
Yes_____ I will attend Number of people________ Amount Enclosed $_______
No _____ I cannot attend, but enclosed is my donation:
___ $10 ___ $20 ___ $50 ___ $100 ___ $ Other
Please make checks payable to:
Friends For Dave Paganelli
1924 Commerce St., Yorktown Hts, NY 10598
RSVP Jean Klaus 914-245-1419
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR DOMENIC VOLP:
Contact Domenic Volpe at 914-382-3084
Mayor Mary Foster at 914-720-4644
VOLPE, FOSTER CALLS ON STATE SENATE TO DROP "CONDO-ASSESSMENT" BILL
Commercial Assessment Ratio Bill passed by NYS Assemby that affects condominiums, co-op owners and
commercial properties in Westchester County--- Bill viewed by condo and co-op owners as unfair---
Appearing with condominium owners in Peekskill, Domenic Volpe, candidate for Westchester County Legislator and Peekskill Mayor Mary Foster oppose this bill that has been making its way through Albany. They are calling on the New York State Senate not to bring this bill to the Senate floor. The Bill, officially known as the Commercial Assrssment Ratio Bill, will only impact Westchester County and has not been vetted by the local municipalities or the County Board of Legislators.
If this Bill is enacted Mayor Foster will recommend to Peekskill's Common Council that the City of Peekskill exercise its right to pass a local law that precludes the Commercial Assessment ratio from being applicable in Peekskill. Candidate Volpe stated that the Towns of Cortlandt and Yorktown and their respective villages can pass the same local law, opting out of the bill, if they choose.
If elected to the County Board of Legislators, Volpe would fight for low taxes that are fairly shared between homeowners and businesses. Mayor Foster vows to keep assessments fair in Peekskill.
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM THE YORKOTOWN AND SOMERS DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEES:
The Yorktown and Somers Democratic Committees
For Immediate Release
Contact Christine Robbins (914) 245-5120 or
Patricia Mulligan (914) 714-4598
Yorktown and Somers Democratic Town Council Members, Council Candidates, County Legislator and County Legislator Candidate Oppose Legislation Raising Taxes on Westchester Condos
On Tuesday, June 16th a resolution was introduced in the Yorktown Town Council opposing legislation pending in Albany that could increase property taxes for local condo owners and commercial properties. A similar resolution will be introduced by Democratic Town Council members at the upcoming meeting of the Somers Town Council on (date).
Statement by Yorktown and Somers Democratic Town Council Members and Council Candidates:
“We oppose any attempt to alter the current tax structure in a way that might cause property taxes to increase. For that reason we urge the State Legislature to reject
Bill A05037 and S4558, which could radically and detrimentally change the tax structure for condominiums in Westchester County and also discourage tax-paying businesses from locating in our area.
Under the current tax structure, condos in Westchester are taxed as income producing properties, which results in property taxes that are much lower than a pure sales or fair market value approach.
Bill A05037 and S4558 could mandate that condominiums be taxed on a pure sales or fair market value approach. This would cause the assessments and the taxes, on condos to increase. We believe that the proposed change in tax structure could seriously and unfairly hurt the marketability of condos in our communities, many of which are occupied by senior citizens on fixed incomes.
We also oppose the creation of a county-wide Revaluation Commission and any effort at countywide property revaluation as provided for in A05037 and S4558. We categorically oppose changing the way condominiums are assessed and urge our representatives in the
Assembly and the State Senate to join us in demanding that Bill A05037 be withdrawn from consideration in the State Senate.”
Signed,
Don Peters, Yorktown Supervisor
Matt Metz, Lou Campisi, Jim Martorano, Yorktown Town Council Members
Dave Paganelli, Yorktown Town Council Candidate
Richard Clinchy, George Dieter, Paul Meyer, Somers Town Council Members
Michael Kaplowitz, County Legislator
Dominec Volpe, County Legislator Candidate
*************************************************************************************
E-MAIL FROM READER JOSEPH FROM PEEKSKILL:
Dear Senator Leibell
I urge you to vote against Senate Bill 1706-A which singles out Westchester County for a raise in cooperative and condominium property taxes in a prejudicial manner as compared to the rest of the state and Westchester single family dwellings. Condominiums take responsibility
for their own lighting and street maintenance including snow removal. Increase in taxes without increased services is unfair. I would refer you to the arguments put forth by Milton Hoffman in the June 16 Journal News.
I pay more than my fair share of taxes to NY State, Peekskill and Westchester County...My local taxes have been raised, MTA fairs are going up...gas continues to rise...at this point I can no longer afford to live in Peekskill! Quite frankly I was shocked that Assemblywoman Sandy Galef who I have supported in the past is a co-sponsor of the assembly version of this bill...You can bet I will remember not to vote for Ms. Galef next November, should she choose to run for re-election. I will urge friends and family to do the same...
Thank you,
Joseph
*************************************************************************************
E-MAIL FROM READER VIC:
Hi Andy;
The published piece on the supposed huge Bakken oil reserves by the anonymous blogger and how much oil there is just for the taking is not accurate. A quick google search turned up the Snopes report that showed the article from your blog verbatim, and it is listed as both true in some aspects and also false in many others. Here is the link to the Snopes piece.
http://www.snopes.com/politics/gasoline/bakken.asp
This misrepresented info seems to have the same genesis as other pro drilling, pro oil industry propaganda. The actual and potential environmental destruction and pollution from ill-advised projects do not contribute to our national strength, but to greed and obscene profits for a few, requiring the waste of our natural resources. The environmental and wildlife threats from continued fossil fuel addiction and production is not the answer IMO; conservation, efficiency and alternative clean and sustainable energy technologies are. The oil industry and their shills will try to sell any garbage to maintain their monopoly and continue their grip on our society and their future profits.
Vic
*************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM WESTCHESTER COUNTY LEGISLATOR GEORGE OROS:
More Funds for Politically Connected Purchase No Surprise
Condition of Former Ardsley Warehouse Was Scrutinized by GOP Lawmakers
The Republican minority of the Westchester County Board of Legislators maintains it is “no surprise” the Spano administration is requesting more funding for repairs at the abandoned warehouse on 450 Saw Mill River Road in Ardsley that the majority members voted to purchase from a politically connected partnership.
The Westchester County Board of Acquisition and Contract (the A & C Board) is poised to pour more money into the Spano Administration’s and Democratic majority’s scandal plagued purchase of 450 Saw Mill River Road.
A vote of the A & C Board scheduled for Thursday includes a “Change Order” of $78,900 for asbestos abatement. That Board already had approved $112,000 for asbestos abatement last November, but that wasn’t enough. The Spano Administration is upping that by 70%.
“No doubt there will be additional remediation work necessary that out paces the administration’s estimates,” commented Republican Minority Leader George Oros (R-C Cortlandt). “It is clear that these estimates were understated and over sold and, unfortunately for our taxpayers, the Democratic majority refused to do true due diligence.”
Oros stated that he “hated to consider” that the majority’s lack of due diligence was because of political contributions to Democratic legislators by the former owner.
The Spano Administration bought the building from big time Democrat contributor Jon Halpern. In April of last year, Journal News columnist Phil Reisman wrote: “Jon Halpern of Ardsley Partners III … contributed $11,500 to [County Executive Andy] Spano's re-election campaigns. Halpern was a member of the ‘birthday gala committee’ for Spano, as was Mark Weingarten, a former chairman of the county Democratic Committee and a partner in the powerful law firm of DelBello Donnellan Weingarten Wise & Wiederkehr. The firm, which liberally spreads money around to Democratic candidates all over Westchester, gave $36,550 to Spano's coffers going back to 2001.”
The DelBello Weingarten law firm represented Ardsley Partners III in the transaction. Halpern and members of the DelBello Weingarten firm have also contributed generously to various Democratic legislators’ political campaigns.
When voting against the controversial $6 million purchase and estimated $7 million in renovation costs last summer, Oros (Cortlandt) and fellow Republican legislators Jim Maisano (R-C-I New Rochelle) and Gordon A. Burrows (R-C Yonkers/Bronxville) argued the 85,000-square-foot building, slated as the new home for the Board of Elections, was in poor condition and would cost more than the administration was contending to bring into compliance.
Thus far, the record has proven Oros, Maisano, and Burrows right.
Since last summer, the administration has sought more than $725,000, including the extra $79,000 for asbestos removal.
Oros remarked that “the building was ignored for three years by prospective buyers for a reason.”
In requesting $595,000 from the Board of Acquisition and Contract for roof replacement April 30, the Department of Public Works Commissioner, one of the three voting members on the board, stated “field conditions had changed or conditions existed that could not have been determined at the time of design” when $2 million was awarded by the board for the same project in October 2008, three months after the majority of the Board of Legislators approved buying the dilapidated structure.
The Commissioner made the same arguments in justifying an additional $49,500 for demolition work on April 30 that has already been approved by the Board of Acquisition and Contract for $150,000 last October.
“From the beginning my instincts said this was the wrong location, wrong price and wrong time for this project, and that there were other interests the administration was serving, other than the interests of our county residents,” Burrows said. “This building is old and in terrible shape. This administration has demonstrated that this project has proven to be a boondoggle all along.”
************************************************************************************
MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR YORKOTWN COUNCIL MARK DREXEL:
RE:CUSTOMER OUTAGE MAPS AVAILABLE ON CON EDISON WEBSITE
Con Edison provides online maps that allow users to pinpoint outage
locations by logging on to www.conEd.com/outagemap and clicking the
"Storm Central" icon on the home page or by selecting "outage location
maps" from the quick links menu.
The new site provides complete Con Edison service territory maps with
color-coded legends indicating the range of customers without service,
and where to locate outage areas on the map. Additional information is
broken down by borough for New York City, and by municipality for
Westchester County. All data is updated at 15-minute intervals.
This new service gives customers timely and accurate information at
their fingertips 24 hours a day.
For more map details, a "Summary" feature enables users to tab to either
New York City or Westchester County for the latest information on active
outages and affected customers, plus the time when the information was
last updated.
With the click of a mouse, users can browse over a color-coded outage
area for interactive information. Finding the location of a specific
address can be obtained by using the "Go To" tab located on the lower
right portion of the map. Just fill in an address or a ZIP code. Maps
can be saved by using the "Favorites" feature.
*************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM THE YORKTOWN WATCHDOG:
Dear Member:
I am cancelling our June meeting because of the firemens parade. Once
again I will bring our UTY sign to March in the parade. I will be at
the highway garage at 6:45 P.M. where the parade starts and goes to the
fire house. I will get a newsletter out by mail to all our members.
Many members don't have e/mail addresses.
Attached is a letter from our Vice President.
Check out our web site at WWW.Yorktowopengov.org thanks to Dan
Lefkowitz and Pat Podolak.
Have a nice summer, see you at our next meeting on Wednesday September
30, 2009 at Yorktown Town Hall at 7:30 P.M.
I need your help, we need a secretary badly to help with newsletter and
minutes of our meeting.
We have many of our members running for public office make your choice
help them win and vote on Nov 3, 2009.
Ed Ciffone
A NOTE FROM LINDA CLEMENZA
VICE PRESIDENT OF U.T.Y.
I wanted to first send my regards to all, and hope you are staying dry. What happen to summer?
Like all of you I want to see the sun.
I keep in close contact with Ed, President of the UTY, and I have continually watched and supervised
from behind the scenes many things going on not only in our community (recent politics,) but also
our Country and generated emails of upset and rage, often received from everyone, business
relations, friends etc.
I never realized that you could send an email to the White House. I did a few months back when discussions took place about stimulus checks. I was upset as I have a small business, self employed,
how was I going to get more money in my check? Of course, I never got a reply personally, but I did
get a letter with the official seal on letterhead from The President of the United States, thanking me
for my interest in our Country. I need to get this site information out to you and I will soon.
Since then, I get once a week mail from the White House. Personal secretary informing me of
meeting, sending me videos of our President speaking to the Senate and Congress etc. Information on Health Plan and all the things President trying to do. It's been interesting and informative. I hear from the horses mouth himself so to speak.
Yes, I am very sad what is happening to our Country. Actually sometimes I get more angry everyday.
As all of you who are upset and annoyed, frustrated, rumors flying, perhaps listen for yourselves,
or get to the White House email and ask for the “PLAN.” this President has in store. Opinions,
observations and listening may relax some. What are we all going to do? I am unsure, but maybe if we
from a small town in Westchester keep voicing our opinion directly to the “Commander and Chief,”
maybe some one will listen, reply and tell us what really is going on....
I know many of you have not seen me be vocal for several months, even out their, but I had several months of a personal issue. I was drained, still kept informed, and working behind scenes. I have been sending of late letters to the editor of NCN as I am not liking what is going on presently in Yorktown with “Politics.” But that's what it is in an election year, right?
Again, stay dry, I am around, if you want to email me directly, voice your concerns etc., just chat you can reach me at lclemenza@optimum.net..
Miss you all, Fondest regards,
Linda
************************************************************************************
WHAT'S HAPPENING AT 12 GRAPES N. DIVISION STREET, PEEKSKILL:
Enjoy our new appetizers ~
THAI MUSSELS
Coconut Milk Broth with Lemongrass, Kaffir Leaves & Ginger
PARMESEAN CRUSTED CALAMARI
Served with
Fra Diablo Sauce
COCONUT SHRIMP
with Vegetable and Soba Noodle Sushi, & a Hoisin Dipping Sauce
KOREAN BABY BACK RIBS
"Falling Off the Bone" Braised Marinated Ribs, served with a
Mandarin Orange Salad
Look for more additions to our
Summer Menu
Call for Reservations!
914-737-6624
The Musician's Corner
A look at some of our featured artists
---------------------------
Melvin Taylor
"His execution of lightening speed runs, infused with jazz embellishments reminiscent of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, Jimi Hendrix and Kenny Burell are mind boggling."
MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATIONS EARLY.
This show will sell out.
~~~
Sat, June 27
9:30 - 12:30
**$10 Cover**
UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS:
The original members of
The Frank Zappa Band!!
Project/Object
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. Featuring one of the Zappa band's founding members,
André Cholmondeley, as well as other "Zappa Alum" from the '70's and '80's.
~~~
Thu, July 2
9PM - Midnight
**$20 Cover**
We've been
Zagat Rated!
20 - Food 20 - Decor
"The chef is designing fun, creative meals."
"Great food...service is professional...
music groups which
perform there
are top notch.
Highly recommended for a fantastic night on the town."
Thanks to all our supporters.
You're the best!
Sincerely,
Rich & Jeannie Credidio
12 Grapes Music & Wine Bar
12 North Division Street, Peekskill, NY
(914) 737-6624
12grapes.com
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM THE CORTLANDT CHOICE:
From Dave Simbari, Cortlandt Choice Candidate for Town Supervisor
Dear Neighbors and Friends,
The Town of Cortlandt’s economic foundation is in great jeopardy. The current administration’s policies and politics are having a dire impact on not only our physical assets but also our financial infrastructure. Cortlandt’s 2004 Master Plan states in Chapter 3 Land Use: Commercial/Industrial uses “Strengthen the tax base and provide continued opportunities for new investment and economic activity in the Town.
In 1999 the Town contracted with Ferrandino & Associates to assist in the formulation of the 2004 Plan which incorporates the future “Economic Development Strategy.”( It is interesting to note the Master Plan was originally scheduled as the 2000 Plan.) The Ferrandino study states that only 5.7% (some 1200 acres) of the Town was zoned commercial or industrial. According to the Master Plan, there are only 123.49 acres of undeveloped commercial and 24.12 acres of undeveloped manufacturing zoned areas. Most existing commercial activity is retail with the Study indicating “that the retail sector may be reaching a saturation point, and that further retail development can only occur at the expense of existing merchants. In addition, the expansion of the retail sector does little to bring higher wage, higher value-added employment to the Town.
We need a substantial tax base in order to succeed as an affordable community for all but the wealthy. The town must have tax paying businesses that offer jobs and support for community activities. Businesses place no burden on the schools and require few, if any, Town services. The two largest commercial employers in Cortlandt are Entergy and the Cortlandt Town Center. The next five are all institutional entities; Lakeland School District, Hendrick Hudson School District, V.A Hospital Campus, Hudson Valley Hospital Center and the Town of Cortlandt. The current administration has done little if nothing to incent businesses to invest in the Town. It is no coincidence that Cortlandt is the only Town in the county without at least one “Office/Research Park.” The Town’s 2004 Plan infers a desire for “Office/Research Areas” (Policy 48) but discourages the same by (1) requiring a Special Permit and (2) requiring a minimum of 50 acres for such a facility.
Typically, communities that truly desire commercial development set zoning that pre-approves certain areas for acceptable businesses; they do not require special permits which involve “negotiations.” The permit process enables the town to extract “gifts” such as a contribution to recreation facilities, town infrastructure or traffic improvements from the developer. This is appropriate from a residential development that will add to the burden of town services and the schools; most communities offer incentives to the commercial developers. In addition, the 50 acre requirement makes no sense since the New York State Empire Development Corporation manual states a viable office park can be developed on as little as 5 acres. Very few viable 50 acre or larger parcels in the Town are zoned commercial or manufacturing.
I know of numerous instances where the current administration has failed to capitalize on potentially enhancing the tax base through commercial growth. Recently, Cortlandt could have had a Holiday Inn hotel, but the Town refused to establish a firm assessment that was required to obtain bank financing, claiming they could not do so before the project was completed. The City of Peekskill got it done; why didn’t Cortlandt?
The Club at Montrose is a valuable tax paying asset. The owner wanted to compliment it with a sports complex on Route 9A and Watch Hill Road. It met Ferrindino’s guidelines and would not have had access to Watch Hill Road, a residential corridor. The administration refused, leaving no choice but to consider a mixed use retail/residential plan with access on Watch Hill Road; just what the study stated the Town didn’t need.
Master plans are updated every decade or so to insure zoning is up to date. This enables property owners and purchasers to know how they may develop their property. One would think after taking six years to develop the 2004 Master Plan, the Town would have resolved all zoning issues. The Plan did discuss the 9A corridor, yet no sooner had the Plan been published, the Town instituted a moratorium on the Route 9A corridor. One would think that this would have resulted in zoning the administration wanted. Apparently, it didn’t, as the administration has recently instituted yet another moratorium. Essentially, to block yet another commercial establishment from taking hold in Corltandt.
The Supervisor boasts about her “zero” tax increases but she is only referring to the Town general tax, a small percentage of what residents pay. Residents are burdened with ever increasing taxes; county, village and school; ours are among the highest in the county. Businesses pay significant taxes, just look at the impact Entergy has on Hendrick Hudson school taxes. The current administration is responsible for failing to incorporate commercial growth in the tax base as a critical component part of an overall tax reduction strategy.
The Town has continually used traffic concerns as a justification to oppose many proposed projects. Cortlandt has four major traffic problem areas; Route 202, Route 6, the Bear Mountain Parkway and the Albany Post Road/9A corridor. I have been a Town resident for 22 years, these areas were congested two decades ago. Let’s not forget the current administration has been in power for 18 years. They have done little or nothing to mitigate these issues.
The facts show that the Town administration has failed to help its residents by not properly developing the Town’s commercial and manufacturing areas. It seems that Ms. Puglisi has gone out of her way to thwart any beneficial business growth in Cortlandt, unfortunately to the determent of all the residents.
Finally, the last best hope to truly lower all taxes in the Town of Cortlandt is to encourage business and commercial development accompanied by appropriate traffic mitigation. Your support and vote is greatly appreciated. Please forward this message to your friends and neighbors.
Warm regards,
Dave Simbari
A Democrat; Endorsed by the Republican,
Conservative and Independence Parties.
WWW.CORTLANDTCHOICE.COM
WWW.TWITTER.COM/CORTLANDTCHOICE
*************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM PUTNAM COUNTY LEGISLATOR ANTHONY FUSCO:
FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN....... FOR YOUR CHILDREN and GRAND CHILDREN........ FOR THEIR FUTURE......
The Mahopac School District thinks you don't care about Kindergarten
If you have a child or grandchild who will be attending Kindergarten, you NEED to attend.
If you were able to afford Private FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN and understand the benefits that it offers, PLEASE attend.
If you have children in school who were not given the benefits of Full Day Kindergarten, you SHOULD attend.
If you are planning on raising a family in Mahopac, YOU need to attend, too!
Hi:
My name is Tony Fusco and as many of you know, I've been an advocate of Full Day Kindergarten in Mahopac for more than five years. I have also been a taxpayers' advocate long before I arrived in Mahopac. So you KNOW that I am both aware and concerned for the potential cost impact that a new program like Full Day Kindergarten can have on a school District. ...but it doesn't have to.
Prior to making Mahopac our home, your school district's spending was climbing at a rate of 9-12% per year. Since I began advocating for lower tax increases, back in late 2004 and early 2005, the rate of increase of spending has slowed to 3-6% per year. The point being, I have spent many hours and fought hard to keep Mahopac affordable. So the LAST thing I want to do is see the district add a program that will add percentage points, once again, to our STILL-TOO-HIGH tax increases. ...and we CAN ADD FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN without raising taxes at such a high rate!
It is with that in mind, that I ask you to join me in the fight to bring Full Day Kindergarten to Mahopac. Full Day Kindergarten, if implemented in 2009-10 school year, could have a zero TAX IMPACT. Please come and find out HOW!
Critics will say that I am doing this for personal gain. That it's for my children. Well let me say THIS to THEM: If a father can not advocate for a better education for his children while at the same time advocating for a better education for ALL of our children, then what has this world come to?!
Please join me, Monday Night, June 22nd, at 7pm at the Mahopac Falls School on Myrtle Avenue. Learn how it IS possible to have Full Day Kindergarten and show your support for this necessary and extremely beneficial program....
FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN....... FOR YOUR CHILDREN and GRAND CHILDREN........ FOR THEIR FUTURE...... and yes, for MY children, TOO!
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM CANDIDATE FOR WESTCHESTER COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN SCHORR:
Friends and Supporters,
We are honored and very grateful to have the support of former New York Governor George Pataki. Attached is a fundraising letter from Governor Pataki - please join him in supporting our campaingn by donating at www.electdanschorr.com.
If you are in the Washington, DC area, please stop by our DC cocktail fundraiser on Tuesday, June 23. Details are attached - please pass it on to any potential supporters in the DC area.
Also, we have a great team of people volunteering at train stations, weekend festivals, on our phone banks, and at our campaign office. If you would like to join the volunteer effort, please email our Volunteer Coordinator, Joe Crotty, at volunteer@electdanschorr.com.
Thank you for your continued support!
Best wishes,
Dan
www.electdanschorr.com
THE LETTER FROM GEORGE PATAKI:
As you may know, I am a strong supporter of Dan Schorr for Westchester
County District Attorney.I know how committed he is to fighting for what’s right. I consider him to be a great candidate who will accomplish great things as District Attorney.
Over the past decade, Dan has successfully prosecuted some of the most
dangerous criminals in Westchester and Queens Counties as an Assistant
District Attorney. Specializing in the prosecution of domestic violence, sex crimes, child abuse, and homicides he has secured numerous convictions in Westchester’s
Integrated Domestic Violence Court and has extensive successful jury
trial experience.
While crime is down statewide -- murder, rape and burglary are actually
up throughout Westchester. Dan Schorr will bring the change we need to
make Westchester County safer. He understands that We Need to End Easy
Plea Bargains that Don’t Properly Punish. He knows that our Law Enforcement
Community Deserves Better Support.
Finally, he will fight to make sure Crime Victims are Once Again a Priority
for the District Attorney. As a prosecutor, youth basketball coach with the White Plains Department of Parks and Recreation and adjunct professor at Pace Law Dan is a committed and active member of our community. As District Attorney, Dan will work
hard every day to improve the quality of life in Westchester County. He
deserves our support and he needs our help.
Please make a contribution of $1,000, $500, $100, or $50 online at
www.electdanschorr.com or send it back to my attention in the enclosed
envelope. This way, we can keep track of our progress in reaching our
goal, and I will know that your contribution has been made.
Sincerely,
George E. Pataki
Former Governor
P.S. Please visit www.electdanschorr.com to find out more about Dan and
your contribution of $1,000, $500, $100, or $50 today will help him take
back Westchester County for its hard working citizens.
************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYWOMAN SANDRA GALEF:
Assemblywoman Galef’s Absentee Voting Bills Triumph in Assembly
Legislation Simplifies and Eases the Absentee Voting Process
(June 18, 2009) Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced that two of her election law bills passed the Assembly earlier this week. One bill (A.7347) broadens the methods and provides additional time within which voters may request an absentee ballot. The other bill (A.5276A) simplifies the absentee ballot application process by removing onerous and invasive questions from the application form.
“It is critical to our democratic process that we have laws which make voting by absentee ballot easier for those who have a legitimate incapacity to vote in person,” said Galef. “The strength of a democracy is determined by the level of participation of its citizens. New York’s voting turnout is on average less than 60%, and it is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure that all citizens are afforded the means to vote, including by absentee ballot.”
Galef believes that voting methods must adapt to today’s technology and expedite the voting process. Her new legislation accomplishes both goals. First, A.7347 will permit voters to request absentee ballots by fax or e-mail in addition to regular mail through the United States Postal Service. Second, A.5276-A will streamline the absentee ballot application process by removing many of the questions asked of the voter. For example, under current law, voters must specify reasons for absences such as the details of their medical conditions. Voters are also required to make available the dates of their absences, which many voters feel uncomfortable providing. Many eligible voters are uneasy releasing such confidential information so they simply don’t vote.
The New York State League of Women Voters (League) supported both pieces of legislation stating that: “providing the additional time and means to apply for an absentee ballot will increase opportunities to exercise the voting franchise.” Aimee Allaud, Elections Specialist for the League also stated that: "The League of Women Voters of New York State and the voters of New York applaud the efforts of Assemblywoman Galef and her Assembly colleagues for supporting this major improvement in the absentee balloting process which has been long overdue."
Adam Smith, Executive Director of The Vote by Mail Project, expressed support for A.5276-A by stating: “Current law includes stipulations which are grossly out of bounds and unnecessary to achieve fair election results. These needless stipulations are a threat to the voter’s privacy and pose a real risk to the safety of their property. Eliminating these baseless prerequisites for absentee voting will liberate the election process and promote turnout.”
“I believe that eliminating these burdensome prerequisites for absentee voting will promote a higher voter turnout. I am confident that we will witness higher voting turnout by making the process more voter friendly and taking into account new technologies and new realities,” concluded Galef.
*************************
*Galef Applauds Passage of Legislation Increasing Safety Measures on Graduated Drivers’ Licenses and Banning Texting for All Drivers*
/(//June 17, 2009//)/ Assemblywoman Sandy Galef strongly advocated for a bill that passed the New York State Assembly today. This legislation requires teenage drivers to have more hours of supervision behind the wheel and will limit the number of teenage passengers in their cars. The bill also bans the use of portable electronic devices (PEDs) while driving, including text messaging. The legislation, A.8568-B, co-sponsored by Galef incorporates two bills that she has carried for the past four years.
“The legislation passed today is a step in the right direction to ensure our children are safer drivers and that the roads will be a safer place for all. In the past few years the proliferation of communications devices that serve as phones, cameras, MP3 players, internet access and text messaging all wrapped into one has proven to be both a significant distraction and a serious danger on the road,” said Galef. “In fact, studies show that the drivers who use electronic devices while driving, including text messaging and taking pictures, dramatically increase their chances of being in or causing a traffic accident.”
The legislation includes two parts aimed at helping new drivers focus on their driving to prevent being a danger to themselves and others on the road. This includes reducing the number of non-family passengers under the age of 21 allowed in the car driven by a junior driver who is not accompanied by a specified supervising adult. In addition there would be an increase in the number of hours of supervised driving from the current 20 hours to 50 hours required for a teen with a learner’s permit to qualify for a driver’s license. It also requires that at least 15 of these hours are after sundown. Lastly, the legislation prohibits drivers of all ages from engaging in the often dangerous behavior of using PEDs. This behavior is most commonly found in people who are texting while driving. The bill also bans accessing e-mail, playing games, transmitting images, using pagers, and using a laptop. To enforce this ban, there will be a $150 fine imposed on anyone convicted of such action.
“An automobile can be a dangerous weapon in the hands of an inexperienced driver,” said Galef. “These new safety measures are necessary to save our young teens’ lives as well as to make roadways safer for all motorists across the state. We must also lead by example and stop the unnecessary use of electronics while driving which distract all drivers and cause more collisions.”
A report released by the American Automobile Association (AAA) found that car accidents are the leading cause of death among 16-19 year olds. In New York State, 279 fatalities of 15-17 year old drivers occurred between 1995 and 2004. Almost 280 passengers of these drivers were killed during this time period. In this eight year span there were also 187 occupants of other vehicles that were killed along with 86 non-motorists, bringing the total of fatalities caused by 15-17 year old drivers to over 800-averaging over 100 per year in New York State.
“I am so pleased to see that legislation that I have fought for is now being passed by the Assembly. We know that there are certain factors that contribute to higher crash rates among teens and adults, including distracting electronic devices, as well as other passengers. The measures provided in this legislation will go a long way to furthering my commitment to keeping New York drivers safe, and limiting the number of automobile crashes every year,” Galef concluded
*************************************************************************************
A MESSAGE FROM ASSEMBLYMAN GREG BALL:
BALL COMMENTS ON BREWSTER TRAGEDY
A Statement from Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson)
My heart pours out to the Donohue family. On behalf of a loving community, I extend my absolute and unending support to the family. This horrific tragedy, not only an issue of illegal immigration, but of drunken driving, has rocked our community to the core. In recent days, I have fielded hundreds of calls from constituents on the issues of drunken driving and illegal immigration. This tragedy, and these conversations, have affected me personally and deeply. Rightfully so, many residents are outraged and are furious over a heartbreaking and tragic loss that could have been avoided. I am asking my constituents to channel this hurt and pain into making every effort to ease the incomprehensible loss of this beautiful family. Moving forward I will work with my fellow elected officials to do the same, while addressing the pressing issues of drunken driving and illegal immigration in our community. As a public body we must take immediate steps to ensure that such a mindless tragedy will never happen again.
************************
Ball HELPS BRING LOCAL BUSINESS
WORKSHOPS TO HUDSON VALLEY
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson) provided a $7,000 state grant to help assist local businesses and sponsor the 2009 Hudson Valley Business Workshop. The same workshop will be held on two different: the first on Friday, June 19 and the second on Tuesday, June 23.
“We are hemorrhaging jobs because of an anti-small business and outwardly hostile entrepreneurial environment in this state. While this workshop will certainly assist hundreds of local business owners, many of whom are struggling considerably to stay afloat, if this workshop series helps even one small business owner or lends to the creation of one job, it will be time and money well spent,” Ball said.
Both workshop series will be held at Sinapi’s Ceola Manor and held in conjunction with the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce. The workshops will help businesses learn:
§ Five key drivers to increase profitability;
§ Business valuation and identity theft protection;
§ How to unlock hidden value in business insurance;
§ Legal insights into buying and selling a business;
§ Unify business communications;
§ Social media outlets for business; and
§ It’s a credit crunch… Where do I find the money?
Chamber Committee Co-Chair Thom Ianniccari said “With Greg Ball’s dedication to providing business people with the tools they need to get through this recession, the Chamber shall offer a truly value-oriented program to all business owners and professionals absolutely free.”
The seminars will also include panel discussions. To sign up or learn more, please visit www.yorktownchamber.org or call 914-245-4599.
WHAT: 2009 Hudson Valley Business Workshop
WHEN: Friday, June 19 OR Tuesday, June 23
7:30 AM to NOON 12:30 PM to 5 PM
WHERE:Sinapi’s Ceola Manor
489 East Main Street, Jefferson Valley
CONTACT: Yorktown Chamber of Commerce
(914) 245-4599 or e-mail info@yorktownchamber.org
************************
BALL DIALS FOR ‘END TO DYSFUNCTION’
Tens of thousands of Hudson Valley voters hear message to restore America’s Promise
Assemblyman Greg Ball (R, C, I – Patterson) launched the first in a series of calls geared at reaching over a hundred thousand voters in the Hudson Valley this evening.
“If you’re as disheartened as I am with the spending and dysfunction in Washington, I hope to have your support,” a Ball voiceover says during the call, which invites residents to participate in a town hall meeting in Pine Island this Saturday at 1 PM at the Polish Legion.
Ball is currently a candidate for the House of Representatives in New York’s 19th congressional district.
Listen to the call here: http://assemblymangball.com/gball061509.wav
Here is the script of the first call:
Greg Ball: Hello, this is State Assemblyman Greg Ball. I'm a former Air Force Captain, Air Force Academy Graduate, and fighting hard to be your next U.S. Congressman. I'm running for U.S. Congress to be an independent voice. To balance our budget, secure our borders, bring our troops home, end deficit spending and end the outsourcing of American jobs.
Once again, my name is Greg Ball, and while my name may rhyme with the current Congressman, we’re quite different. I’m fighting to change the dysfunction in Washington D.C. – not become part of it.
Come meet me in Warwick, this Saturday, at one PM. It’s open to all, and I would love to se you there. Call me at eight-four-five-fight-eight-two-zero-five-four-eight for details. That’s eight-four-five-fight-eight-two-zero-five-four-eight. Once again, this is State Assemblyman Greg Ball, and if you’re as disheartened as I am with the spending and dysfunction in Washington, I hope to have your support, and I look forward to earning your trust. Thank you, and have a great day.
Announcer: This call was paid for by Ball for NY.
**********************************
Friend,
June 30th is my first financial reporting deadline as a candidate for US Congress.
This is the first test of support for our campaign since I officially announced last Month. Everyone: the liberal media, the DC establishment and my opponent, will be watching our fundraising totals to see if we can compete with John Hall and the Democrat Party.
That's why we need to show the strength of our campaign to Restore America's Promise before this month's deadline. I've always been proud that my support comes from the grassroots -- people like you and me.
You can help me prove that we can bring change to Washington by making a donation now on my website.
Your hard work and generosity have gotten me through two hard-fought elections for the New York State Assembly. But the fact remains that our opponents still have a big advantage. They can rake in huge money, especially from the Hollywood elite and Nancy Pelosi's Washington insiders.
Please help us in our fight Restore America's Promise by giving $19, $50, $100 or whatever you can afford by this month's deadline so we can pass this first test and take on the Democrat fundraising machine.
Thank you,
Greg
*************************************************************************************
THIS WEEKS "IN MY OPINION COLUMN" IN THE NCN:
Dear Readers:
This week I discuss the fallot from the new MTA TAX. You can read my column on this topic exclusively on line(see link below)or in this weeks NORTH COUNTY NEWS on sale now. I am worth the seventy-five cents. Look for my column IN MY OPINION(page 10) in the editorial section. Better yet as this column is exclusive to the North County News on a regular basis and will be covering the local political scene, take out a subscription. Click on the North County News link below and go to Subscribe. Between this blog and The North County News you will have all the information to make a vote based on substance.
************************************************************************************
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.
************************************************************************************
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
***********************************************************************************
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/
PUTNAM VALLEY SUPERVISOR BOB TENDY:http://www.bobtendyforsupervisor.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
***********************************************************************************
CABLE SHOWS TO WATCH:
YORKTOWN WATCHDOG: Every Friday at 9:30 PM & Wednesday at 4:30PM on channel 74
Hosted By: ED CIFFON
LEGISLATORS REPORT: Saturday and Sunday at various times on chanel 20
Hosted By: COUNCILMEN NICK BIANCO AND LOU CAMPISI
THE VOLPE REPORT: Thursadys at 8PM chanel 15 (Peek. and Cort.) chanel 74 at 6pm (York.& Put. Valley)
Hosted By: 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
**********************************************************************************
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
06/21/09
No comments:
Post a Comment