The Indian Panorama

Tag: Long Island

  • Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Wins $10 Million Award from NY State

    Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Wins $10 Million Award from NY State

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): New Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Anthony Macagnone and Councilwoman Rebecca Alesia announced, August 2, that the Town successfully won $10 million in Downtown Revitalization Initiative funds from Governor Cuomo and the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council for downtown revitalization in Hicksville.

    Supervisor Saladino stated, “Hicksville’s downtown is a prime location for revitalization, new jobs and new housing opportunities.  These economic development funds will assist the Hicksville community and all of our residents by creating new jobs, new housing opportunities and by transforming downtown Hicksville into an attractive, walkable and bicycle-friendly environment.  I thank Governor Cuomo for his commitment to our downtown and Councilmembers Rebecca Alesia and Anthony Macagnone for their dedication to advancing plans for downtown Hicksville.  This puts the Town of Oyster Bay on the map across New York State!”

    The Local Planning Committee (LPC) – comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives – will establish and approve a community-based vision for revitalizing the downtown.  Potential projects may include decorative pavers, attractive lighting, newly planted trees, benches street art and a homogenous street and storefront signage program to create a strong sense of place intended to celebrate Hicksville’s history and cultural diversity.  Additionally, funds may be utilized for Complete Street initiatives that include new sidewalks and improvements to preexisting pedestrian pathways, footpaths, bicycle paths, bicycle racks and cross walks.  Furthermore, the Town envisions the creation of a plaza area—large community gathering space to be used for events such as fairs, farmers markets, art exhibitions, food truck nights, classic car nights, concerts, and much more.

    Councilman Macagnone added, “In partnership with community stakeholders, our Town Board has taken a leadership role in shaping the future of downtown Hicksville.  I thank Governor Cuomo for investing in our vision to transform the downtown Hicksville community into a walkable city center that can successfully attract new jobs, new housing and keep our young people and senior citizens on Long Island.  I commend Supervisor Saladino and my colleagues on the Town Board for their dedication to this project and for working to enhance our community.”

    Councilwoman Alesia stated, “Through extensive resident input and in close coordination with Vision Long Island, the Hicksville Community Council, Hicksville Chamber of Commerce and Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Committee, the Town has proposed a new zoning concept for the Downtown Central Business District to create new jobs and housing opportunities.  With these new State funds and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $132 million investment in the Hicksville railroad station, we can transform the Hicksville community into a vibrant downtown for millennials, downsizers, empty nesters and senior citizens alike.”

    Kevin Law, President of the Long Island Associated, added, “The Long Island Association commends Governor Cuomo, Supervisor Saladino and the Oyster Bay Town Board for their commitment to growing the local economy by investing in our downtowns like Hicksville.”

    Hicksville Chamber of Commerce President Lionel Chitty concluded, “It is truly wonderful to see this positive movement with the Hicksville Downtown Revitalization efforts.  All the hard work done over the past seven years by the Downtown Hicksville Revitalization Committee, the Hicksville Chamber of Commerce, the local civic associations, the Town of Oyster Bay and all of the community stakeholders has finally paid off.  This award will be a catalyst for future growth in Hicksville. We look forward to seeing Hicksville become a true destination where people can live, work and play.”

    Home to 42,000 residents, Hicksville is a transit-rich and diverse community located at the confluence of two Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) branch lines. The Hicksville LIRR train station is the busiest on Long Island, averaging 22,000+ commuter trips/weekday. The Hicksville Downtown has strong physical suitability for revitalization and redevelopment as evidenced by high LIRR ridership, intensity of existing commercial land uses, infill-ready parcels, converging arterial roadways and ample sewer and utility infrastructure. Hicksville is poised to capitalize on the strong Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) market and LIRR Third Track improvements through the implementation of a strategic zoning initiative, walkability enhancements, parking management and storefront beautification.

  • Federal Brief Filed on Long Island Workplace Discrimination Case Comes Day After Trump Proposes Banning Transgender Military Service Members

    Federal Brief Filed on Long Island Workplace Discrimination Case Comes Day After Trump Proposes Banning Transgender Military Service Members

    LONG ISLAND, NY(TIP):  A day after President Trump tweeted remarks calling for a ban on transgender military personnel, calling them both a “burden” and “disruption,” the Department of Justice filed a brief in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking to rollback workplace discrimination based on one’s sexual orientation.

    The case, which the federal brief was filed for, involves the firing of a skydiving instructor from a Long Island company after a customer complained about having to parachute with a gay man.

    David Kilmnick, President of the New York LGBT Network based on Long Island, issued the following statement:

    “The Trump Administration’s latest shameful assault on the LGBT community should give every American pause. It’s inexcusable for President Trump and his administration to continue assaulting the LGBT community for political gain.  The LGBT Network stands united with every American who has ever been the victim of discrimination and hate in the workplace. And it’s simply unconscionable that lawyers, paid for with public tax dollars, are being employed to parse language pertaining to who can and cannot be discriminated against. At the end of the day, discrimination is discrimination, regardless of who the victim is.”

  • Indian pharma companies with their plants in the US make it big

    Indian pharma companies with their plants in the US make it big

    NEW YORK (TIP): An Economic Times report says the US markets account for over 40 percent of the total revenue of the top four Indian drug makers. Many members of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA) have their own plants in the US, even though their main revenue comes from Indian imports.

    Here’s the list of top five Indian companies which have plants in the US.

    Sun Pharma

    The Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd is the largest Indian pharma company in the US, which is also functioning in more than 150 countries all over the world. The company was established by Dilip Shangvi in 1983 and was acquired by another pharmaceutical giant Ranbaxy in 2014.

    Sun Pharma has two plants in New Jersey and has one each in Philadelphia, Detroit, Wilmington, and Chicago. The company markets a large basket of generics in the US, with a strong pipeline awaiting approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). The USFDA sent a warning notice to Sun in December 2016 about nine violations at its manufacturing plant in Halol, Gujarat.

    The company requested the USFDA to withdraw approval for 28 Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs) belonging to its wholly owned subsidiary Ranbaxy Laboratories.

    Lupin

    Lupin Ltd is a transactional pharmaceutical company based in Mumbai founded by Desh Bandhu Gupta. It entered the US generic pharmaceutical market in 2003 as Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc with the ANDA approval for Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets. It is the fifth-largest generic pharmaceutical company in the US by prescription-led market share and is one of the fastest growing pharmaceutical companies in the US. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, the company has plants in Somerset and New Jersey.

    Lupin received more than 75 FDA approvals till now and it’s US brand business contributed 9% of total US sales whereas the generics business contributed 91 percent during the financial year 2014-15.

    Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories

    Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories was founded by Dr K Anji Reddy in 1984 and is based in Hyderabad, Telangana. The company manufactures and markets a wide range of pharmaceuticals in India and overseas. It began as a supplier to Indian drug manufacturers and later focused on getting approval from drug regulators such as the USFDA.

    Dr Reddy’s have plants in Shreveport and New England, and it is the first Indian company to launch the generic drug, fluoxetine with 180-market exclusivity in the US. In 2001, Reddy’s completed its US initial public offering of $132.8 million, secured by American Depositary Receipts and the company is also listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

    The FDA issues a Form 483 letter to Dr Reddy’s in December 2014 over concerns discovered during an inspection of its Srikakulam facility. No specific violations were mentioned in the letter.

    Cipla

    Cipla is one of the largest pharma companies in India headquartered in Mumbai. In the US, Cipla is headquartered in Miami and has a plant in Long Island.

    The company primarily develops medicines to treat cardiovascular disease, arthritis, diabetes, weight control and depression and other medical conditions. Founded by Dr. Khwaja Abdul Hamied as The Chemical, Industrial & Pharmaceutical Laboratories in 1935, the company changed shorted its name to Cipla Ltd in 1984.

    USFDA approved Cipla’s bulk drug manufacturing facilities in 1985 and under the leadership of founder’s son Yusuf Hamied, the company became a global icon for its role in defying Western multinational pharmaceutical companies in order to provide generic drugs for AIDS and other diseases to treat poor people in the developing world.

    Aurobindo Pharma

    Aurobindo Pharma Limited was founded in 1986 and commenced operations in 1988-89 with single unit manufacturing semi-synthetic penicillin in Puducherry. The company is now headquartered in HITEC City, Hyderabad, and manufactures generic pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

    The company makes tablets in its plant in New Jersey and is now gearing up for a second plant in the US after Trump called on to increase local manufacturing.

  • Nritya Dhara – A dance Journey through the Golden Era of Bollywood Classics

    Nritya Dhara – A dance Journey through the Golden Era of Bollywood Classics

    Nartan Rang Dance Academy’s Annual Extravaganza

    GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP):  On Sunday, June 18th, 2017, the Nartan Rang Dance Academy of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan presented its annual dance showcase, Nritya Ranjani (now in its 16th year) at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center on Long Island.

    A grand tribute to Bollywood’s golden oldies, fusion and classical dances. These dances were showcased in grand style with glittering eye-catching costumes. Nritya Dhara (Stream of Dances) was truly a spectacular extravaganza. Over 75 students participated ranging in ages from 4 to 60!

    Delightful performances

    Choreographed by Swati Vaishnav & Siddhi Vaishnav.  The school, which works under the umbrella of renowned non-profit organization Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. Opening the show was a prayer dance Bappa performed by dancer choreographer Siddhi Vaishnav and Senior/Alumni group from the movie Banjo.

    The show was well appreciated by a full house audience encouraging their children and grandchildren said artistic director Swati Vaishnav, “We wanted to have a little bit of something for everyone this year & we wanted to make sure our students learn various forms of dance, while still being enriched by the traditional styles from our South Asian heritage & culture.”

    Delightful performances

    The show was ably emceed by Monty Kataria and Shiv Vaishnav.

    A well-known community leader and Philanthropist Mr. Amit Doshi was honored and recognized for his services to the community by a proclamation from Nassau County by Mr. Dilip Chauhan, Senior Advisor, with Nassau County Comptroller Mr. George Maragos.

    Information about classes for the 2017-2018 year can be found at www.nartanrang.com or by E-Mailing vaishnavswati7@gmail.com.

  • Nassau County Comptroller Maragos Orders Audit of MTA- LIRR Station Operation and Maintenance

    Nassau County Comptroller Maragos Orders Audit of MTA- LIRR Station Operation and Maintenance

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Commuters across Nassau County are suffering on a daily basis from an endless array of problems with the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) including broken rails, derailments, and signal problems causing service delays, and train cancellations. The public is entitled to answers regarding whether the approximately $28.5 million in taxpayer money paid annually to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for LIRR station operations and maintenance is well spent. With this objective, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos sent an audit engagement letter to the MTA, on June 19, 2017. A start date of July 12, 2017 was recently mutually agreed. The $28.5 million annual payment is only a portion of the $143.3 million paid in 2016 to the MTA by Nassau County taxpayers excluding train fares.

    “The litany of service delays, train cancellations, derailments and overcrowding appears to represent a failure of management, inadequate maintenance, poor planning and lack of investment in the LIRR,” said Comptroller George Maragos. The inadequate service is affecting our local economy by reducing productivity, and increasing traffic congestion and pollution. The economy will continue to be adversely affected unless we restore reliable LIRR service. Our audit will attempt to look at how well taxpayer money is spent by the LIRR in operating and maintaining the Nassau County system and by extension all of the LIRR system.”

    The intent of the audit is to specifically examine how effectively Nassau County taxpayer money is spent by the MTA in providing the County’s LIRR rail operations and its associated management practices. The audit is expected to be completed in about 3-4 months assuming the MTA and LIRR cooperate.

    Under New York State County Law § 577, a County Comptroller is granted the authority to “have general superintendence over the fiscal affairs of the county” as well as the authority to “audit all claims, accounts and demands that are lawful county charges”. Nassau County makes millions of dollars of payments to the MTA for the operation, maintenance and use of LIRR Stations located in Nassau County, as well as millions for the County’s matching portion for its State Transportation Operating Assistance (STOA) program for MTA’s commuter rail operations. This limited review will examine whether certain funds are being utilized in accordance with the law.

     

  • Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh in cooperation with various organizations celebrated IYD in Long Island, NY.

    Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh in cooperation with various organizations celebrated IYD in Long Island, NY.

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India 5000 year ago, said Jagdish Sewhani. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

    On December 11 in 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21st as the International Day of Yoga. The declaration came after the call for the adoption of June 21st as International Day of Yoga by Hon’ble Indian Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi during his address to UN General Assembly on September 27, 2014

    “175 nations, including USA, Canada and China co-sponsored the resolution.” It Had the “highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA Resolution of such nature.”

    Art of Living, Braham Kumaris, Sadguru Isha foundation, Ranju Narang of Om Meditation and Sanjay participated in the IYD.

    (Based on a press release)

  • MS-13 is Targeting New York for more bloodshed, say authorities

    MS-13 is Targeting New York for more bloodshed, say authorities

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): The recent spate of murders attributed to the MS-13 gang on Long Island is no accident – but rather the result of a sick directive from higher-ups in El Salvador for bloodshed in the Empire State, law enforcement revealed Thursday, June 15, says a New York Post report.

    MS-13 honchos in El Salvador have “implemented the ‘New York Program,’ which mandates an increase of violence and bloodshed in New York,” Nassau DA Madeline Singas revealed Thursday.

    Singas made the chilling remarks at a press conference to announce the arrests of dozens of reputed MS-13 gang members as part of a 41- person indictment.

    The defendants are responsible for 32 violent acts in Nassau, including eight attempted murders, she said. MS-13 is suspected of being behind the brutal Long Island killings of four young men whose bodies were discovered in a wooded area in Central Islip in April. The gang is also believed to be behind the savage deaths of best friends Nisa Mickens, 15, and Kayla Cuevas, 16, around Brentwood in September.

    Multiple incidents alleged in Thursday’s indictment involve handguns and machetes, the latter of which is MS-13’s weapon of choice, Singas said. “MS-13 has terrorized communities, killed innocent people, and stolen the childhoods of the vulnerable young people they recruit to join their ranks,” Singas said. “We will be unrelenting in our efforts to stop MS-13 from recruiting in our schools and spilling blood in our streets.”

    MS-13 has also been a target for President Donald Trump and US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who have vowed to eradicate the violent group.

  • South Asian Community Leader Dilip Chauhan honored with Kings of Long Island Award organized by Star Network

    South Asian Community Leader Dilip Chauhan honored with Kings of Long Island Award organized by Star Network

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP):It was a great gathering. Nearly 500 people from all walks of life gathered at Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck to recognize 45 men from Nassau and Suffolk Counties for their exemplary work in business and the community. Ashley Edwards, who was crowned Miss Long Island 2017, was also in attendance at the event. Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos was in attendance that evening, offering his congratulations to all of the honorees.

    “I would like to congratulate you for your accomplishments,” said Comptroller Maragos. “Each one of you is an incredibly accomplished, and I know you have a lot more to give.”

    Dilip Chauhan was recognized as one of the most prominent and dedicated advocate for the South Asian- American community. Dilip has touched the lives of so many people through his unwavering support for those in his community. Through his “Gateway to South Asian American Community Presentation” Dilip has connected countless corporate, nonprofit, academic, faith-based, and government leaders to the South Asian-American community. He currently serves as a Senior Advisor to the Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos. In his previous role as the Director of Southeast Asian Affairs for the Nassau County Comptroller’s office, he educated small business owners about govt. business opportunity available for MWBE.Dilip currently sits on the Boards of Service Now for Adult Persons (SNAP) and South Asian American Voice. In recognition of his accomplishments in his community, Congresswoman Grace Meng designated November 12th, 2016 as “Dilip Chauhan Day” within the 6th Congressional District.

    More ever, Dilip’s stellar service recently earned him New York State and City Hall’s Political Rising Star “40 under 40” award among other prestigious honors.

    Dilip Chauhan humbly accepted and dedicated his Award to the fast Growing South Asian American community.Said Mahatma Gandhi once said “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. It is the best advice that I have received, and the best advice that I can give to anyone. Try it! We are Indian Americans, Pakistani Americans, Bangladeshi Americans, Sri Lankans, Nepalese and other South Asian Americans. Just to give you an idea of our impact: Indian American Physicians in United States are 120,000,18,000 Physicians in United States are of Pakistani Origin,90,000 Convenience Store Own and Operated by Indian American, and 22,000 Hotel/Motel Own by Indian Americans.”, Dilip said.

    This event was sponsored by Flushing Bank,Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Investors Bank, D & F Development, New York Community Bank, Contour Mortgage, AgeWell New York, Forest Hills Financial Group, Stew Leonard’s, Zwanger Pesiri Radiology, Marketing Works, Broadway Stages, EIHAB Human Services, Bethpage Best of Long Island, Georgi Vodka, Neiman Marcus and Godiva.

  • WHY GOP SENATORS ARE SELLING OUT THEIR OWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO HELP NYC CHARTERS

    WHY GOP SENATORS ARE SELLING OUT THEIR OWN PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO HELP NYC CHARTERS

    By Andy Pallotta

    Charter schools are rare on Long Island, just like they are in vast stretches of the rest of New York State. In fact, there are no charter schools from just north of Albany all the way to the Canadian border; and they are nearly as rare in much of central New York and the Southern Tier. In fact, of the 38 state Senate districts outside of the New York City metropolitan area, only five have three or more charters. Most have no charters at all.

    So why do the Republican state senators from Long Island and the rest of upstate continue to lobby to provide millions of dollars in state aid every year to the charter sector; money that could benefit their own local schools and constituents but instead ends up in the coffers of charter operators in New York City? It’s a question that is especially pointed for Long Island’s GOP Senate delegation, particularly Majority Leader John Flanagan.

    Charters received a $22 million increase in state funding for the current school year. In the recently enacted state budget, the Senate pushed for – and won – a $70 million increase in charter school funding through a $500 per student tuition bonus, bringing the two-year funding increase for charters to about $92 million in state funds.

    It’s not as if schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties, or any of these senators’ home districts, couldn’t use additional funds. If divided among the Republicans’ districts, that $92 million could mean dozens of new teachers to lower class sizes in local schools, more sports and after-school programs, art and music, guidance and health services, and better career training in areas that have lost manufacturing jobs – and that’s not to mention the impact of tens of millions of additional state dollars on local property taxes.

    What accounts for this devotion Senate Republicans have shown to charter schools outside their districts? Maybe it has something to do with the huge sums that pro charter billionaires have lavished on charter cheerleader operations and on Republican office-holders.

    In the last five years, a group of charter friendly billionaires including the Walton family, heirs to the Wal-Mart fortune; hedge fund operators Daniel Loeb and Paul Singer; and others have poured nearly $13 million in contributions into outfits with names like “New Yorkers for a Balanced Albany” and “New Yorkers for Putting Students First” that function as lobbying forces for the charter industry.

    Republican Party operations in New York State have also been the direct beneficiaries of the billionaires’ largesse. Republican county and state committees, along with their associated housekeeping and campaign accounts, raked in more than $3 million in contributions from this group during the same period, with Singer and notorious rightwing billionaire David Koch leading the list.

    Thanks to changes in federal and state election laws, billionaires can legally use their vast fortunes to magnify their voices on any issue they decide to embrace.

    But Long Island residents – in a chorus with New Yorkers from throughout the state — should be reminding their senators that they don’t have to listen to those voices, particularly when it means short-changing their own public schools. And Long Island’s Senate delegation would be smart to pay attention.

    (The author is president, NY State United Teachers)

  • George Siberon Declares Independent Candidacy for Democratic Legislator in 5th District Serving Freeport, Baldwin and South Hempstead

    George Siberon Declares Independent Candidacy for Democratic Legislator in 5th District Serving Freeport, Baldwin and South Hempstead

    BALDWIN, NY (TIP): Mr. George Siberon, announced his candidacy for the Nassau County Legislature – District 5, offering his extensive knowledge and experience, in working with minorities, the disadvantaged and those neglected by government. George is running as an Independent Democrat for the Democratic Party nomination.

    “I am running for Nassau County Legislator because I want to bring integrity to the Nassau County Legislature, said George Siberon. I am tired of hearing of our elected officials being indicted, and our communities losing faith and trust in government. I am tired of the “pay to play” politics. I am running because we have a very serious drug epidemic that is not adequately being addressed with over 575 Long Islanders having died of opiate overdoses. As a legislator, I would coordinate an educational campaign to parents on early detection and treatment of drug use. I would also advocate for community based organizations to receive funding to assist persons with drug issues, and I will travel to Albany with educational advocates for an equitable share of state funding for our schools.”

    “I am honored to support Mr. George Siberon for Legislator in the 5th District, said George Maragos. Mr. Siberon, is a genuine person who understands the many issues facing our less privileged residents in Freeport, Baldwin and South Hempstead, He has always been a strong activist for social justice, affordable housing, public education and a fully funded public bus transportation system. Mr. Siberon is a person of unquestionable integrity, and independence whose only interest is to honorably serve the community,”

    About GEORGE SIBERON, M.P.A.,M.S.W.

    George Siberon is the Executive Director of the Hempstead Civic Association, a not for profit, community based organization that has been providing services to the residents of Hempstead and surrounding communities for over 30 years. Mr. Siberon is responsible for ensuring that services provided by the HHCA (English as a second language, after school tutoring, summer camp, affordable housing and tenant advocacy) are provided in a professional, culturally sensitive manner. George has over 40 years of administrative experience as Executive Director of the Nassau County Youth Board, District Manager for Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, Deputy Acting Executive Director of ASPIRA of New York, and Psychiatric Social Workers of Puerto Rican Family Institute.

    George has a Bachelor of Arts Degree, Queens College, a Master of Social Work Degree, Fordham University and a Master of Public Administration Degree, Baruch College, where he graduated with honors. George is a graduate of the prestigious National Urban Fellows’ Program and is a member of Phi Alpha Alpha, the national honor society for public affairs and administration. George has received numerous honors; top advocate for Latino empowerment, community service award, NAACP-Freeport/Roosevelt branch, the Long Island Progressive Coalition, the Hispanic Brotherhood of Rockville Centre and from the Circulo De La Hispanidad George lives in Baldwin, New York with his wife, Dr. Margarita Lopez-Siberon and their daughter Tanya.

  • Marine and Navy Helicopter Landing at Eisenhower Park

    Marine and Navy Helicopter Landing at Eisenhower Park

    Navy “Leap Frogs” Parachute Team and Navy/Marine Raid Force Demonstrations Part of 2017 Fleet Week

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano has announced that Nassau County will once again host a Marine and Navy Helicopter Landing in Eisenhower Park on Saturday, May 27th as part of the “Fleet Week 2017” activities in New York City. The free event, billed “Raid New York” will be the only Marine/Navy helicopter landing on Long Island. Spectators are invited to board the aircraft once landed and meet with military personnel.

    Navy Landing at 10:00 a.m.

    The U.S. Navy Parachute Team, the Leap Frogs, based in San Diego, California will perform an aerial parachute demonstration showcasing the skills of the Naval Special Warfare Team. The team is celebrating their 43rd Anniversary this year. In addition, a combined team of members from the U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (EOD) and a Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron will present a mine countermeasures demonstration. The EOD technicians are stationed in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

    Marine Landing at 12:30 p.m.

    The CH-53 Sea Stallion, MV-22 Osprey and AH-1W Cobras will perform an area sweep and transport a Marine Raid Force to the landing zone. Marines will perform an assault demonstration, after which the helicopters will land and will be available for public display, along with the weapons typically used by a Marine Corps Rifle Platoon. Marines supporting this event are part of a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force from the II Marine Expeditionary Force based at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina.

    The Helicopter Landing will be taking place on the Kite Field, just south of the Veterans Memorial in Eisenhower Park, with parking at field 6A and adjoining parking fields. Please note: New safety regulations have redefined spectator areas, so all are advised to arrive early.

    Northwell Health will also have a presence at the event with displays, vehicles and entertainment and support for participating military personnel.

    At 930 acres, Eisenhower Park is the largest park in Nassau County and is centrally located in East Meadow with entrances at Hempstead Turnpike at East Meadow Avenue and Merrick Avenue at Stewart Avenue.

    For more information about this event, please call (516) 572- 0200 or visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks.

     

  • Mangano and LI Cares Collect Hundreds of Pounds of Pet Food and Supplies for Disadvantaged Families

    Mangano and LI Cares Collect Hundreds of Pounds of Pet Food and Supplies for Disadvantaged Families

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Long Island Cares, Inc. – The Harry Chapin Food Bank thanked employees for participating in Nassau County’s 6th Annual Pet Food Drive Challenge. The pet food drive took place during the month of February and collected hundreds of pounds of food and supplies. Donations will assist Baxter’s Pet Pantry – formed by Long Island Cares in 2009 – to provide free pet food and supplies to pet-owning families in need in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

    “For many of us our pets are family,” said County Executive Mangano. “These pet food items will help feed animals in need, which in turn keeps pets with their loved ones and out of shelters. I thank those who generously donated and participated in this pet food drive.”

    Residents interested in donating pet or regular food items may contact the Freeport Long Island Cares Facility at (516) 442-5221.

  • Padma Shri HR Shah honored at Inauguration of new Executive of IAPC

    Padma Shri HR Shah honored at Inauguration of new Executive of IAPC

    The Indo American Press Club (IAPC) held the inauguration of its new Executive Committee on March 4 here in the presence of community leaders and officials. Mr H.R. Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia who was conferred with Padma Shri this year, was warmly felicitated at the gala event at Antun’s by Minar.

    Professor Indrajit S Saluja, editor-publisher of The Indian Panorama, was sworn in as the new President, taking over from Parveen Chopra, Managing Editor of The South Asian Times and The Asian Era. Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos administered the oath of office to the new IAPC office-bearers including George Eapen (General Secretary) and Biju Chacko (Treasurer).

    HR Shah is felicitated on conferment on him of Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of India. Seen in the picture are IAPC officials, community leaders and County officials. Photo/ nayaface.com
    HR Shah is felicitated on conferment on him of Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of India. Seen in the picture are IAPC officials, community leaders and County officials.
    Photo/ nayaface.com

    Prof Saluja, in his acceptance speech, talked about the power of the media which can make a President, as well as bring down a presidency. Referring to the cover headline of the souvenir distributed on the occasion, he said he believes that “The bedrock of democracy is journalism. And the bedrock of journalism is facts. And facts alone.”

    Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos administers oath of office to new Board of Directors led by Chairman Babu and Executive committee members, led by President Prof. Indrajit s Saluja
    Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos administers oath of office to new Board of Directors led by Chairman Babu and Executive committee members, led by President Prof. Indrajit s Saluja
    Photo/Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia

    Ginsmon Zacharia, founder Chairman of IPAC who has interests in print and TV, stepped down after shepherding the organization for three years. The new Chairman Dr. Babu Stephen publishes two community newspapers from the Washington DC area: Express India and India This Week, and is the CEO of DC Healthcare Inc, and president of SM Reality LLC.

    Joining in IAPC honoring Mr HR Shah for his Padma Shri were Deputy Consul General of India Manoj Mohapatra, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos and many community leaders. Dr Dattatreyudu Nori introduced Mr Shah, his longtime friend.

    Mr Shah, in his speech, dwelt on his initial struggles in media but said he did not give up. Under him, TV Asia is today the largest TV network for the Indian community in America. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for conferring on him one of the highest civilian awards of India. He lauded Prof. Saluja for felicitating him because it was media people honoring a mediaman. He also announced that TV Asia will be launching in India soon.

    Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media, while felicitating Mr. Shah, praised him as a man of vision and action who made it to the top with grit and determination.

    Both Dr Parikh and Dr Nori are previous recipients of Padma Shri.

    Comptroller Maragos underscored the role of media in a democracy and lauded Indian American media for doing a great job to promote interests of the community and serving the great American nation in the best fashion. He also revealed his intention to run for the office of Nassau County Executive.

    The New IAPC leadership with George Maragos
    The New IAPC leadership with George Maragos

    In his keynote address, Jehangir Khattak, Co-Director, Center for Community and Ethnic Media, CUNY Graduate School of Journalism, spoke about how he has been fighting for more government dollars for the ethnic media, including desi media.

    Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, Deputy Consul General, New York, rushed from an engagement in Boston to preside over the event.

    Deputy Consul General of India Manoj Kumar Mohapatra launches the book "Medicine, Myth, and History-India's Legacy" authored by Dr. VK Raju and Dr. Leela Raju
    Deputy Consul General of India Manoj Kumar Mohapatra launches the book “Medicine, Myth, and History-India’s Legacy” authored by Dr. VK Raju and Dr. Leela Raju

    A book, ‘Musings on Medicine, Myth, and History – India’s Legacy’, by Dr. VK Raju and his daughter, Dr. Leela Raju was launched on the occasion. Through his Eye Foundation of America, Dr Raju is dedicated to eradicating childhood blindness in India and elsewhere.

    Kalpita Chakote presents a captivating dance performance
    Kalpita Chakote presents a captivating dance performance

    Other dignitaries who graced the occasion included Vandana Sharma, Air India’s Regional Manager (Americas), Dr Ajay Lodha, AAPI National President, Dr. V. Chakote, AAPI President, Gobind Munjal, new President of AIA-NY chapter, Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson IAF, Bina Sabapathy, President, IALI, Arish Sahani, President, Intellectuals Forum, HAB Bank’s Sr. Vice President Rizwan Qureshi, Srujal Parikh Executive Vice President of FIA, Dr Bhupi Patel, Dilip Chauhan, Advisor to Comptroller Maragos, Rajiv Bhambri, CEO of India Abroad, Karan Beri, CEO of Opinio Media, TJ Anand, President of Lions Club, Mohinder Taneja, a former Director with Nassau County, Jay Jasbir Singh, publisher of Hum Hindustani, Shomik Chaudhary, a former COO with News India Group, were among the gathering. Many media fraternity which included representatives from TV Asia, Jus Punjabi, PTC TV, Desi Talk, News India, India Abroad, Hum Hindustani, The South Asian Times, The Indian Panorama, and Malyalam media were present.

    The scintillating Bhangra
    The scintillating Bhangra

    The roaster of entertainment included a skit by New Jersey street theater group, Prayas. Kalpita Chakote presented a classical dance, and Bhangra group Soormay, of St. John’s College students, gave an electrifying bhangra performance.

    IAPC, with six active chapters in the US and Canada, has organized three successful annual international media conferences in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut over the past three years. A highlight of the conference last year was a presidential debate with representatives from Democratic and Republican sides.

    Ms Sangeet Sharma was the charming master of ceremonies.

    Mr. Mohapatra honors Antun's Neetoo, and a social activist Anu Jain
    Mr. Mohapatra honors Antun’s Neetoo, and a social activist Anu Jain

     

  • Mangano, Venditto corruption trial date set for 2018: April 5 is the next court date

    Mangano, Venditto corruption trial date set for 2018: April 5 is the next court date

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): A Newsday report published February 9, said a federal judge in Central Islip on Wednesday, February 8, set Jan. 15, 2018, as the start of the corruption trial of Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto.

    U.S. District Court Judge Joan M. Azrack set the date as Mangano and Venditto, along with Mangano’s wife, Linda, who is also charged with a crime, all appeared in federal court for a status hearing on their case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine M. Mirabile said the government has already turned over 10,000 pages of discovery to the defendants and intends to hand over 10,000 more pages.

    The judge set April 5 as the next court date.

    Outside court Mangano said the case has not affected his ability to govern.

    Mirabile and fellow federal prosecutors declined to comment after the court appearances. Mangano’s lawyer, Kevin Keating of Garden City, has refuted the allegations that the county executive was involved in a scheme to get a Long Island restaurateur county contracts. “We are pleased the court has set a trial date,” he said Wednesday. “My client is innocent and we will have an opportunity to clear his name.”

    Linda Mangano’s attorney, John Carman of Garden City, said, “I agree with my colleague’s remarks.”

    Venditto’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo of Manhattan, declined to comment.

    Mangano and Venditto were arrested in October and charged with receiving “bribes and kickbacks” from a businessman who also gave Mangano’s wife a lucrative no-show job, federal authorities said.

    The federal corruption charges center on a relationship involving Mangano, Venditto and a person identified only as a co-conspirator in the 13-count indictment, but whom sources identified as restaurateur Harendra Singh.

    Republicans Mangano, 54, of Bethpage, and Venditto, 67, of North Massapequa, are charged with conspiracy to commit bribery, fraud and obstruction of justice.

    Mangano’s wife, Linda, 54, is charged with obstruction and making false statements. Prosecutors contend she received more than$450,000 from the no-show job from April 2010, months after her husband took office, to August 2014.

    One of her phony jobs was to serve as a “food taster,” prosecutors said.

    Authorities accuse Edward Mangano and Venditto of scheming to award Singh contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide food services to county agencies and secure multimillion-dollar loan guarantees for his businesses.

    In exchange, Mangano and Venditto received gifts from the co-conspirator, including “hotel and travel expenses, limousine services, free meals and other gifts,” according to the indictment.

    Among the gifts Mangano received were a massage chair worth $3,600, an ergonomic office chair worth $3,300, a Panerai Luminor watch worth $7,300, and installation of hardwood flooring in his bedroom, authorities said.

    In return for helping the businessman, Venditto got use of a private room at a restaurant, free chauffeur service for himself and his family, and discounted fundraisers at a restaurant, according to the indictment.

    The restaurants are not identified in the indictment, but sources said the fundraisers were held at Woodlands at the Town of Oyster Bay golf course, previously operated by Singh, and the private room was at Singh’s now-defunct restaurant in Bethpage, H.R. Singletons.

    If convicted of the top count, Edward Mangano, Linda Mangano and Venditto face up to 20 years in prison. The charges resulted from an investigation by federal prosecutors, and FBI and IRS agents.

    At their arraignments at federal court in Central Islip in October, all three pleaded not guilty through their attorneys and were each released on $500,000 bond.

    (Source: Newsday)

  • Notebandi not enough to end corruption

    Notebandi not enough to end corruption

    By Beena Kothari - President, India Association of Long Island Email: beena.kothari@gmail.com
    By Beena Kothari – President, India Association of Long Island Email: beena.kothari@gmail.com

    The historic decision of Nov 9, 2016 to demonetize currency notes of Rs. 500/1000, which represents 86 %of the total currency in circulation, was ‘overdue’ since the last time in 1978.

    Many reports suggest that it has resulted in shrinking the size of the parallel economy and black money tremendously, at the least by 20%. and likely to be more in the coming year as follow up measures indicate .The business of counterfeit currency  is almost 80,000 crores which has been pumped by ISI and our enemies  has been badly hit  and almost stopped for now. The terror funding by the enemies across the border and the illegal mafia activities, communal riots, human trafficking, including Naxalites activities have been extremely reduced for the time being. The huge inflow of the cash money into the banks thus into the economy, has resulted into loan interest rates going down and lowering the cost of doing business and making more affordable the products.

    It is well known that many political parties are the biggest hoarders of the black money. Now, we may see a better election process and the fair practices in the upcoming assembly elections in a more democratic ways. The cash deposits of over 14 lakhs crores after this move which will very positively impact Indian economy and improve the GDP by at least 1.5%. People are becoming hopeful that there is likely increase in public expenditure due to more tax collections which govt. will be spending on infrastructure, health, education, social welfare schemes and creating job opportunities.

    The demonetization move has been seen as a “Masterstroke” by many among us. Is it a Masterful enough?

    This mammoth tasks lacked in the great detailed planning as seen by the long queues at the banks for many weeks and the empty ATMs. It caused public inconvenience in many medical emergencies and health issues, the wedding seasons was also around the corner. In rural area, the banking structure was not sound enough to support this transition. As 90 % of the Indian economy is on cash, this cash crunch has the worst impact in the service sector and would continue for more months .Ongoing period is high activity for agriculture is a major concern and have felt the big pinch. There is a fear of return of “inflation” contrary to the fundamentals that it should go down after demonetization. So we could see short-term pain for India’s economic trajectory but eventual long-term gains for Indian economy.

    “Black money is not synonymous with corruption; it is rather one of several symptoms of corruption”. This intervention is a one-time draining of this current stock of black money but unless the root causes of corruption are removed, corruption will continue. It is sort of like a dialysis, more of a short term cleaning up than a solution of the problem. It needs to be repeated periodically. More enforcements   and tightening of the laws and regulations is required on ongoing basis to get rid of the menace of the corruption.

    Digitization provides equal access to education and communication. Digitization also ensures that the public goods and services are reaching people cost effectively and timely in an efficient manner. Whether it is banking, railways or even Public distribution system or any public utility service, it makes their delivery faster and easier to keep track with. People can now do almost everything online, to apply for a PAN card, passport and to book a railway ticket or pay bills they no longer need to stand in long queues. There is also an online grievance system for almost every service and therefore people’s problems are now better attended because everything is now recorded, monitored and tracked. We have even seen People directly tweet the grievance to the concerned minister, the role of Smt. Sushma Swaraj, MEA Minister is exemplary outstanding and extra ordinary and getting it resolved promptly. So with this another value of democracy, service for the people is effectively implemented. Digitization is truly strengthening and enhancing the Indian democracy and widening its scope for betterment of common man. Digitization is the way to advance.

  • Federal bribery trial for Harendra Singh indefinitely delayed

    Federal bribery trial for Harendra Singh indefinitely delayed

    NEW YORK (TIP): The much anticipated federal trial of the once prominent Long Island restaurateur Harendra Singh, which was scheduled for jury selection Monday, January 2, has been delayed indefinitely, according to court records, the judge’s clerk, and sources.

    Singh has been negotiating a plea deal to be a key witness in Eastern District prosecutors’ corruption case on Long Island against Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano, his wife Linda, and recently resigned Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, according to sources. In addition, Singh has been negotiating a similar deal with Southern District prosecutors in Manhattan probing the possible granting of favors by city officials to campaign fundraisers such as Singh.

    Singh has been charged with bribery, income-tax evasion and obstruction of justice. He has pleaded not guilty in the Eastern District and has not been charged with any crimes in the Southern District.

    The Manganos and Venditto also have pleaded not guilty.

    It would not be unusual for a key government witnesses charged in one case to have their own trial delayed until the completion of their testimony in another case. Such witnesses are often required to secretly plead guilty so that when they testify, jurors know they will be held accountable for their crime.

    The Singh trial date was set before the Manganos and Venditto were arrested in October on charges of receiving “bribes and kickbacks” from a person identified only as a co-conspirator, but whom sources identified as Singh.

    Singh’s attorney Anthony La Pinta, of Hauppauge, declined to comment on the reason for the delay in the case.

    Attorneys for the Manganos, and Venditto’s attorney, also declined to comment, as did spokespersons for prosecutors in the Eastern and Southern Districts.

    Singh was arrested in September 2015 on charges of bribing a former deputy Oyster Bay town attorney with $50,000 in order to help him get an ‘indirect” guarantee from the town on $32 million in loans. He was also charged with defrauding the Internal Revenue Service by failing to report millions of dollars in wages paid off-the-book, as well as cash paid by his restaurants’ customers.

    In addition, Singh was charged with obstruction of justice for lying to FBI agents, and also illegally collecting $950,000 from FEMA for falsely reporting damage by superstorm Sandy to his Water’s Edge restaurant in Long Island City.

    In June, U.S. District Judge Sandra Feuerstein in Central Islip set jury selection for Singh’s case to begin Monday with the trial to start immediately afterward. Feuerstein’s deputy confirmed Wednesday that the Singh case was no longer on her court calendar for that date and no future dates had been scheduled.

    Federal prosecutors claimed that Linda Mangano received more than $450,000 for no-show jobs including that of a “food taster.” And Eastern District U.S. Attorney Rob Capers said that Mangano was charged with extortion for pressuring the co-conspirator to award the no-show job to his wife.

    In return, the co-conspirator got hundreds of thousands of dollars in county contracts to provide food services and received multimillion dollar loan guarantees, prosecutors charged.

    In the Southern District case, prosecutors are investigating whether businessmen such as Singh, who gave tens of thousands of dollars to political campaigns, received favorable treatment in dealings with the city, according to sources. The focus of Singh’s role has been whether he received favorable treatment in the handling of the city lease on his now shut Water’s Edge restaurant in Long Island City. DeBlasio administration officials have denied that they had engaged in any such pay-to-play scheme.

    (Source: Newsday)

    Meanwhile, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos who is keen to be the next Executive of Nassau County said in a statement, January 4: “The indictment and resignation of John Venditto as Oyster Bay Town Supervisor is another blow to public trust in government. It is imperative that steps be taken immediately to start the process of restoring the public trust. In this vein, I call on the entire Oyster Bay Town Board, who appears to have condoned the corruption, to resign, and all Long Island elected officials who have been indicted to step aside”.

  • Nassau Police Overtime Out of Control, says Comptroller Maragos

    Nassau Police Overtime Out of Control, says Comptroller Maragos

    Nassau County Comptroller recommends an outside independent review of overtime assignment practices.
    Nassau County Comptroller recommends an outside independent review of overtime assignment practices.

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): The Police Department’s overtime for 2016 is projected to exceed $69.9 million, by approximately $13 million, or about 23%more than budgeted. By 2016 year-end, over 30 police members are expected to earn more than $100,000 in overtime, and one police officer has already received almost $180,000 as of November 30, 2016, and may exceed $200,000 by year-end. It has been revealed in a press statement from the Comptroller’s office.

    The overtime earnings also appear to be heavily skewed towards a relatively small number of police force members who tend to be the highest paid, with 90%also eligible for retirement. For example, 375 out of about 2300 active police force members (excluding cadets), or 16% of the members, earned approximately 41%of all overtime as of November 30, 2016, For the first time in 2016, Nassau County will have a number of police members who will earn more than $300,000 in total earnings. It is important to note that most police members, almost 84%, earned less than $50,000 in overtime pay, and as of November 30, the median overtime earned by all active police members was $22,300.

    “Police overtime has been a recurring budget,” said Comptroller George Maragos. “While most officers appear to have reasonable overtime, greater oversight and better management of overtime would seem appropriate for those earning significantly above the median. An outside independent review of overtime assignment practices is strongly recommended.”

    With one month remaining in the year, 281 police force members have already earned a combined salary including overtime, holiday pay, longevity pay, shift differential and other pay of more than $200,000. As of November 30, 2016, two officers have already earned more than $300,000 in total compensation, and by year-end, an additional six (6) police force members will likely exceed $300,000 in total compensation. Table 1 below shows the total compensation for the 25 top overtime 25 earners. .

  • Indian American Community Leader Dilip Chauhan honored with Congressional Award

    Indian American Community Leader Dilip Chauhan honored with Congressional Award

    NEW YORK (TIP): Congresswoman Grace Meng, acknowledged Dilip Chauhan as an “outstanding community leader within the State of New York”.

    Meng said, “His Presentation, Gateway to South Asian American Community of New York has educated many elected officials about the community including Members of Congress, State Senators, Assembly Members, Public Advocate and other legislators from New York State in last ten years. I am honored to recognize our beloved community leader, Dilip Chauhan. I thank him for his invaluable years of diligent and noble services to residents of New York and fellow Americans”.

    On Sunday, November 12th, the US Congress dedicated November 12th as the “Dilip Chauhan Day” from the 6th Congressional District in New York.

    The decision was announced by Congresswoman Grace Meng from Sixth District. Ms Meng is the first Asian woman to become a congresswoman in New York.

    On the same day, the Long Island Gujarati Cultural Society (LIGCS) invited and honored Mr. Dilip Chauhan as a “Guest of Honor” at their Annual Gala to celebrate Diwali at Gujarati Samaj in New York.

    Mr. Chauhan graced the occasion with his presence and was honored by the society. The event was attended by about six hundred people from LIGCS.

     

  • The 21st Annual Diwali Food Drive for the Interfaith Nutrition Network organized

    The 21st Annual Diwali Food Drive for the Interfaith Nutrition Network organized

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): The India Association of Long Island’s 21st Annual Diwali Food Drive for the Interfaith Nutrition Network was held on November 12 at the Mary Brennan Soup Kitchen.

    Attending the reception were past presidents of IALI. President of IALI Mrs. Beena Kothari & Executive Committee and many IALI members were present. Town of Hempstead Senior Council woman Dorothy Goosby & Town Clerk Nasrin Ahmed graced the occasion with their presence.

    Aruna Saxena, Food Drive Chairwoman said,”This year we are donating 45 boxes of canned food and 21 thousand dollars. Also, Mr. Peter Bheddah a major supporter of the IALI Food Drive and Founder was able to get 2 truckloads of food to the INN through Diku Modi of Maya Foods.

    Dr. Kishore Kuncham was honored for his services as Past Chairman of the Food Drive.

    Aruna Saxena thanked the community and volunteers.

    Diwali Food Drive donors included many generous community members, Hicksville merchants, religious temple goers.

    IALI sponsored a meal around Diwali on October 5. A vegetarian meal was served by 10 ladies from IALI at Mary Brennan Soup Kitchen for approximately 250 men women & children.

    Physicians from the community also donated more than $4000 worth of medicines and supplies, for the non- profit organization, Rotacare,which provides medical care to people in need.

    Aruna Saxena, Food Drive Chair said, “IALI youth also  collected $500, which are provided for children in Foster Care in Nassau County. The money goes to Social Services of Nassau County.

    More than 60 people were present at the Giving   Ceremony at the Mary Brennan Soup Kitchen.

  • Nassau County 2017 Health Insurance Premiums Increasing 7.3%, says Comptroller Maragos

    Nassau County 2017 Health Insurance Premiums Increasing 7.3%, says Comptroller Maragos

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): George Maragos, Comptroller of Nassau County said, November 17 that Health insurance rates paid by Nassau County for its employees and retirees enrolled in the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) will increase by a weighted average of 7.3% in 2017.

    The average increase of 7.3% is mainly due to increases in the individual rate of 11.2% and family rate of 12.2% for active employees, offset by a reduction in rates for retired employees enrolled in Medicare.

    These rates exceed the 10-year average rate increases of 5.3% and 6.0% for individual and family coverage respectively.

    In total, the County budgeted $283 million in 2016 for employee and retiree Health Insurance coverage. In 2017, the Comptroller’s Office projects that under the proposed rate increases, the Health Insurance spending will increase to about $303 million.

    “Health Care for Nassau County employees and retirees represents approximately 16.3% of the total 2016 budgeted salaries and wages for all active employees,” said Maragos.

    “The rate increases continue to outpace inflation and wage increases. Alternatives should be considered in controlling this expense without compromising the quality of care.”

  • Santa’s Mailboxes have arrived in County Parks from North Pole: Nassau County Executive Mangano

    Santa’s Mailboxes have arrived in County Parks from North Pole: Nassau County Executive Mangano

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced, November 3, that a special network of Santa’s Mailboxes has arrived in various Nassau County Parks. Now through Friday, December 16th, the children of Nassau County can send their holiday lists directly to Old St. Nick at the North Pole.

    The Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums will forward letters to Santa at the North Pole. Letters received by Friday, December 16th with a legible name and return address will be answered by Santa before the holiday. There is no postage necessary.

    Colorful red and green mailboxes will be accessible from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily at the administration buildings of the following parks:

    Cantiague Park in Hicksville, (571-7056);
    Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn-North Hills, (571-8113);
    Grant Park in Hewlett, (571-7821);
    Rev. Arthur Mackey, Sr. Park in Roosevelt, (571-8692);
    Wantagh Park in Wantagh, (571-7460);
    *Eisenhower Park: Nassau Aquatic Center at Parking Field No. 1A, (572-0501); and Eisenhower Park Administration Building: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., (572-0200).

    For more information about Santa’s mailboxes, please call (516) 572-0200 weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., or visit the Park’s Department website at:
    www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks.

  • Maragos Calls for 3.8% Expense Cuts in 2017 Budget to Save $82M

    Maragos Calls for 3.8% Expense Cuts in 2017 Budget to Save $82M

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos advised the Administration and the Legislature, October 28, to cut 3.8%or $82.6 million from the proposed $3 billion 2017 budget to avoid raising fees. This can be achieved by ordering ALL County departments, Agencies and Elected Offices to revert to their 2016 adopted budgets and further cut them by about 2.5%. Alternatively, a 5% reduction combined with the latest proposed Administrative Technical and Legislative Amendments would negate the need to raise or impose the proposed fees, plus meet the NIFA mandate of less than a $60 million deficit on a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) basis. Cutting programs or services must be avoided.

    “The proposed 2017 County budget needs to realign priorities and challenge every department to economize, rather than ask residents to pay more,” said Comptroller George Maragos. “All departments and Elected Offices should be tasked to reduce their budgets without reducing programs or services.”

    The Comptroller’s Office has revised its 2017 budget analysis to incorporate the latest Technical and Legislative proposed amendments. As a result, the revised NIFA deficit is now at $145.6 million. Enacting the proposed 3.8% departmental budgetary cuts would save $82.6 million and would eliminate the need for new fees. Alternatively, a 5%cut would eliminate the need for new fees and further reduce the NIFA deficit closer to the NIFA goal.

    Connect with Nassau County Comptroller Maragos Online:http://www.nassaucountyny. gov/agencies/Comptroller/index.ht ml

  • Living in America with the dream of providing ‘Roti, Kapda and Makan’ for every Indian

    Living in America with the dream of providing ‘Roti, Kapda and Makan’ for every Indian

    dr-vaijnath-m-chakote-mdFrom an unknown, remote village of Karnataka to New York. The journey was not only difficult but also full of challenges. He overcame all challenges, achieved extraordinary success, but at heart, he is the same village boy who still dreams of bringing changes around. In a nutshell, that is how one can define Dr. Vaijinath Chakote – a global citizen but Indian at core.

    Born in Konmelkunda village in Bidar district, Karnataka, Vaijinath Chakote came from a very humble background. His farmer father and housewife mother could not provide him with any luxury but gave the most important gift of life – moral values. Education, honesty, serving the community, and helping the poor – those were the values his parents emphasized on. And those moral principles made him what he is today – a man who always keeps his head high with feet on ground.

    Today, Dr. Vaijinath Chakote, a renowned internist, holds the title of medical director in a number of practices in the tri-state area but never forgets his roots.

    “I belong to a very remote village in India where in my school there was no table or chair. We had to sit on the mud floor”, he recollects those early days of struggle.

    Uponcompletion of primary education from his village, Vaijinath Chakote went to Hyderabad and Bidar for further studies and finally to Karnataka Institute of Medical Science in Hubli from where he got his medical degree.

    Then he worked in many countries like Iran, England, and Ireland and finally landed in USA in 1984.

    Dr. Vaijinath Chakote, an internist in Rockaway Beach, New York, is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Brookdale Hospital Medical Center and Lenox Hill Hospital. He is one of 67 doctors atBrookdale Hospital Medical Centerand one of 177 at Lenox Hill Hospital who specialize in Internal Medicine. During his decade long medical career Dr. Chakote has developed successful practices servicing patients with a wide array of care needs. Empire Medical Services is one of them that serve low-income communities in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Rockaway Beach, Flushing, and the surrounding areas. Catering to its patients is the main goal of Empire Medical Services that aimsto continue to provide individualized care to every patient and to be an ongoing educational resource for the surrounding medical community.

    Chakote Family. (L to R): Kirti Chakote, Dr. Jyoti Chakote, Kalpita Chakote, Dr. V Chakote, Karunesh Chakote
    Chakote Family. (L to R): Kirti Chakote, Dr. Jyoti Chakote, Kalpita Chakote, Dr. V Chakote, Karunesh Chakote

    Dr. Chakote is also serving as the current president of AAPI of Queens and Long Island that represents 660 active physicians and donates more than $60,000 annually for charitable purposes. He received numerous awards for his charitable activities including Nassau County Human’sRights’ Commission Award (first Asian to be awarded in 50 years), mahatma Gandhi Samman, and Hind Ratan-Jewel India- Award among others.

    Giving back to the community is the motto of his life – be it in America or back home in India. He is hosting a Diwali party for 350 people in a 7-star hotel with unlimited drinks and food, which is entirely free of cost. He is spending 50,000 dollars from his pocket to host this ‘Glamorous and beautiful’ event in Long Island on October 21.

    “My only dream is to serve the community -mainly in India – more so in my village where I come from. There are so many things to do (there). Still there is no drinking water in my village, no school. I feel so bad when I see my villagers are suffering so much.”

    He also feels that all Indians should work together for India and the whole world for harmony and peace. “The world recognizes Indians as the peace-loving people. We should continue the good work to maintain that. We should lead the world the way Mahatma Gandhi did.”

    Dr Chakote receiving Mahatma Gandhi Samman - 2012 from Rt. Hon'ble Baroness Sandip Verma, Minister of Energy & Climate Change, U.K. on 12th October 2012 at House of Lords, London U.K.
    Dr Chakote receiving Mahatma Gandhi Samman – 2012 from Rt. Hon’ble Baroness Sandip Verma, Minister of Energy & Climate Change, U.K. on 12th October 2012 at House of Lords, London U.K.

    Dr. Chakote praises the contributions of many Indians who donate thousands of dollars for many charitable works here but feelsthat prosperous Indian American community should come forward and provide the basic amenities in their respective places in India. “Roti, kapda, aur makan – these basic needs are still not there in many places. There is no drinking water, no roads, no proper transportation system. Because of lack of proper infrastructural systems like toilets, communicable diseases are spreading. ”

    Dr. Chakote's talented daughter Kalpita giving a dance performance
    Dr. Chakote’s talented daughter Kalpita giving a dance performance

    “In 40 years the conditions of rural India have not changed much. In fact, it has become worse. The big cities are getting bigger but villages are still in darkness. That’s why villagers are shifting to towns for a better life and the towns are unable to cope up with the increased population”, he further added.

    Dr. Chakote firmly believes that together we can change the world with honesty, sincerity, hard work, and without any discrimination.

    Dr. Chakote is married to Jyoti who is a doctor. The couple have three children. The eldest Karunesh, 23 studies at Dental College, Pittsburg; the middle one Kirti, 22, is a student of Albany Medical College. The youngest Kalpita, 16 is a high school student. She excels as a Bharat Natyam dancer and had Arrangetram at the age of 12. She is a regular performer at many prestigious events.

  • Following Syosset, Hindus seek Diwali holiday in all New York school districts

    Following Syosset, Hindus seek Diwali holiday in all New York school districts

    NEW YORK (TIP): Hindus have welcomed reports of Syosset Central School District (SCSD) in New York adding Diwali, most popular of their festival, as an official holiday on the 2017-2018 school year calendar.

    Rajan Zed, a Hindu activist, in a statement in Nevada, describing it as a step in the right direction, urged all other public school districts and private schools in New York State to do the same.

    Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that it would be a positive thing to do in view of presence of a substantial number of Hindu students at schools around the state, as it was important to meet the religious and spiritual needs of these pupils.

    Rajan Zed indicated that schools should make efforts to accommodate the religious requirements of Hindu students and show respect to their faith by not conducting regular business and scheduling classes on Diwali. We did not want our students to be put at an unnecessary disadvantage for missing tests/examinations/papers, assignments, class work, etc., by taking a day-off to observe Diwali.

    If schools had declared other religious holidays, why not Diwali, Zed asked. Holidays of all major religions should be honored and no one should be penalized for practicing their religion, Zed added

    Rajan Zed suggested all New York schools, both public and private, to seriously look into declaring Diwali as an official holiday, recognizing the intersection of spirituality and education. Zed noted that awareness about other religions thus created by such holidays like Diwali would make New York students well-nurtured, well-balanced, and enlightened citizens of tomorrow.

    Zed urged New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, New York State Education Department Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa and New York State Commissioner of Education MaryEllen Elia; to work towards adding Diwali as an official holiday in all the 700 school districts, and persuading the private schools to follow.

  • Nassau County Top Brass arrested by Feds on Corruption Charges

    Nassau County Top Brass arrested by Feds on Corruption Charges

    CENTRAL ISLIP, NY (TIP): The 13-count indictment charges Mangano, the highest ranking elected official in Nassau County, with selling out his position to a wealthy businessman in exchange for free vacations, meals and other gifts. The businessman also allegedly paid Linda Mangano more than $450,000 for doing little or no work at one of his restaurants.

    vendittoThe businessman is not named in the indictment, but sources say the bribes were paid by restaurant owner Harendra Singh, who is now cooperating with the feds against Mangano and Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, 67, who was also indicted. Mangano and Venditto are both Republicans. All three were released on $500,000 bail and are due back in court on Dec. 7.

    The Manganos, both 54, are also charged with obstructing justice by repeatedly meeting with Singh to come up with bogus stories to explain the gifts and no-show job. Robert Capers, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said Mangano and Venditto “undermined the very system of laws they promised to uphold by furthering their personal interests rather than the best interests of their constituents.

    “Sadly, Mangano enlisted the assistance of his wife in an attempt to shield his wrongdoing from public scrutiny,” Capers added. Mangano and Venditto face up to 20 years in prison if they are convicted of honest services wire fraud, Mangano faces 20 years for extortion and the three each face up to 20 years for obstruction of justice.

    Senate GOP spokesman Scott Reif dismissed the criticism and noted that Democrats have also drawn recent legal scrutiny, referring to the probe of Mayor de Blasio’s 2014 fundraising efforts on behalf of Democratic Senate candidates. “Senator (Jack) Martins, Senator (Kemp) Hannon and Senator (Carl) Marcellino and the Republican candidates who are running there have already called on the County Executive and Town Supervisor to resign,” Reif said. “We have absolutely no tolerance for corruption of any kind, regardless of whether it is committed by a Democrat or Republican.”

    Singh’s dealing with City Hall is the subject of a separate federal investigation by the Manhattan U.S. Attorney. Singh raised$21,425 for Mayor de Blasio’s 2013 campaign from friends and family. In June 2014, Singh was appointed to the Mayor’s Fund – a nonprofit that raises private money for city causes – and the Democratic National Committee.

    Singh’s restaurant Water’s Edge, located on city-owned land in Queens, owes the city $1.2 million in back rent and late fees. On Thursday morning, a Long Island good government group called on Mangano and Venditto to resign.

    “Given the fiscal mess that Nassau County and Oyster Bay find themselves in, County Executive Edward Mangano and Town Supervisor John Venditto should resign immediately,” Dean Hart, the head of Long Island Citizens for Good Government, said in a statement. “Nassau County and Oyster Bay need undivided attention and complete focus to address this very grave fiscal crisis, not politicians trying to cling to power.” Nassau Comptroller George Maragos, who recently changed parties from Republican to Democrat to run for county executive in 2017, called the allegations “a betrayal of the public trust and further shake our trust in government. Given the nature of the charges, it would be in the best interest of the county if both would resign in order to allow the people’s work to be conducted with unquestionable integrity.”

    Oyster Bay spokeswoman Marta Kane said Venditto “is still the town supervisor,” but that Leonard Genova, who serves as both town attorney and deputy supervisor, would step in for Venditto’s absence if necessary. The announcement by Nassau Republicans comes only 19 days before Election Day. Martins is facing a tough battle with former Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi in the vacant 3rd Congressional District.

    Marcellino (R-Syosset) will take on Suffolk Water Commissioner James Gaughran while Hannon (R-Garden City) faces attorney Ryan Cronin. McGrath, a Hewlett attorney, faces Sen. Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach) in a rematch of their April special election and Phillips, the mayor of the Village of Flower Hill, takes on Democratic businessman Adam Haber for the 7th Senate seat being vacated by Martins.

    State Sen. Michael Venditto (R-Oyster Bay), the son of the Oyster Bay supervisor, did not attend the news conference but Martins said he agreed that the two should resign.

    A Senate spokesman said Michael Venditto was expected to release a statement on Thursday.

    Marcellino called it a “sad day” for Nassau but that “the people come first. People before politics. The government must go on.”

    McGrath said replacing Mangano and Venditto “would restore public trust so that the children and our families know that we are have zero tolerance for corruption.”

    Senate Democratic spokesman Mike Murphy said Republican lawmakers “spent years empowering Ed Mangano and John Venditto and protecting them as they abused their offices to line their pockets … These corruption enablers standing up now is not only laughable but offensive. It’s is easy to feign outrage after the fact but let’s be clear they are part of this Nassau Republican criminal enterprise. “