The Indian Panorama

Tag: Nassau County

  • Afghani Sikh and Hindu Community pay tribute to their brethren slain in Afghanistan

    Afghani Sikh and Hindu Community pay tribute to their brethren slain in Afghanistan

    Afghanistan Consul General in New York Abdul Satar Haqbin mourns with community

    HICKSVILLE, NY(TIP): The gory incident of the slaying of 19 Sikh and Hindu community leaders in Jalalabad, Afghanistan on July 1 came alive before the eyes of the gathering at Gurdwara Nanak Darbar here on July 5. The Afghani Singh and Hindu community which has a large presence in this part of New York organized an Akhand Paath in the memory of their slain brethren. The Sikhs who immigrated from Afghanistan after having suffered for years set up a Gurdwara by the name Gurdwara Nanak Darbar while the Afghani Hindus set up a temple by the name Asa Mai Hindu Temple. Both shrines are located in the vicinity of each other in Hicksville. The entire community which immigrated from Afghanistan is close knit and share their joys and sorrows.

    So it was when the Akhand Paath Sahib in the memory of those killed was organized by the Sikh sangat of Gurdwara Nanak Darbar. Members from Asa Mai Mandir and from other Hindu temples came to pay their tribute to the dear departed ones. Many had known those who were killed. In particular, Rawail Singh and Avtar Singh who were political leaders of the  Sikhs and Hindus in Afghanistan, were household names.

    Speaking on the occasion, Afghanistan Consul General in New York, Abdul Satar Haqbin said he was both “happy and sad”. Happy that he was with the community in a Sikh temple which he had always wanted to visit. And sad because of the tragic incident in Afghanistan on July 1 in which 19 Hindu and Sikh community leaders were killed. Among the killed were young and old, professionals, businessmen and workers. The gory incident has made government, parliament, and people of Afghanistan sad.

    Speaking about the turn of the events in Afghanistan, the Consul General said that Afghanistan was a very peaceful country until 40 years ago. But after Russia invaded Afghanistan, peace deserted the country and all kinds of problems started. But, “we have to regain peace”, said the CG. Sikhs and Hindus have made great sacrifices for Afghanistan. They have laid down their lives for the country. They have bravely served in the military. “I thank the Sikhs and the Hindus” for their sacrifices and contribution to Afghanistan. Haqbin was sad to recall how once upon a time there were 200,000 Sikhs and Hindus living in Afghanistan and now only a handful were left there.

    The Sikhs and the Hindus are held in high esteem. No sooner than the reports of the killings came in, the governor and senior officials visited the site of the incident and the gurdwara to express their condolences. They felt concerned for the Hindu and Sikh community and expressed their support to them.

    The Consul General paid his tribute to those killed and said he will ensure all possible help to the bereaved families.

    The Consul General was honored with a Siropa

    The Consul General was honored with a siropa.

    The Gurdwara General Secretary Harcharan Singh Gulati who has been in constant touch with the Sikh and Hindu community in Afghanistan, said that the Sikhs have been living in Afghanistan for the last hundreds of years. He spoke feelingly about the Sikh historical gurdwaras in Afghanistan and recalled how Rawail Singh and Avtar Singh stayed back only to look after those gurdwaras. They are “true martyrs”, Gulati said.

    A view of the sangat
    The grief stricken managing committee members of Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar
    Photos / Courtesy H.S. Ahluwalia

    A number of community leaders, Gurdwara and Mandir managers and intellectuals, who included, among others, Dr. Amarjit Singh, Giani Jagtar Singh Jachak, Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, Paramjit Singh Bedi, Mohan Singh, Virenderpal Singh Sikka, spoke on the occasion.

    Earlier, a large number of Sikhs and Hindus participated in the Bhog of Shri Akhand Paath Sahib and listened to Gurbani Kirtan.

     

     

     

  • Legislator Arnold W. Drucker Celebrates Milestone As County Executive Laura Curran Signs “Tobacco 21” Into Law

    Legislator Arnold W. Drucker Celebrates Milestone As County Executive Laura Curran Signs “Tobacco 21” Into Law

    MINEOLA, NY(TIP): The Nassau County Legislature on May 23 approved the measure unanimously, which requires buyers of products such as “cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes, chewing tobacco, rolling papers, herbal cigarettes, liquid nicotine and smoking paraphernalia” to be over age 21.

    The action follows years of advocacy by Minority legislators, who have repeatedly demanded a vote on the measure in recent years. This legislation was first proposed by the late Legislator Judy Jacobs and was championed by Legislator Drucker, who succeeded her in office.

    “As the successor to Judy Jacobs, who served the residents of Nassau County with honor and distinction for so many years, I am extremely proud to witness this historic day in Nassau County,” Drucker said. “Raising the minimum age for the purchase of tobacco products to 21 will save lives by making it harder for teenagers to pick up a dangerous habit that results in a lifetime of poor health, addiction, inordinate expense, and a loss of the ability to enjoy life to its fullest.”

     

  • Immigrant-Bashing Helps MS-13

    Immigrant-Bashing Helps MS-13

    By Tom Suozzi

    “The president’s inflammatory rhetoric is counterproductive to the goal that we the people, including new arrivals in America, seek—to live in peace, security and happiness and to eradicate MS-13”, says the author.

    I applaud President Trump’s mission to combat MS-13. The gang must be disrupted, dismantled and defeated. There should never be any disagreement about that, and presidential involvement is incredibly beneficial.

    MS-13 members are ruthless and depraved. The gang models itself on organized crime syndicates throughout history. It is a murderous and destructive force in too many good communities across America, including Long Island, where I’m from.

    But Mr. Trump’s failure to distinguish properly between MS-13 members and other immigrants, along with his divisive, discriminatory language, particularly against immigrants from Latin America, hampers efforts to rid our communities of MS-13. The president’s inflammatory rhetoric is counterproductive to the goal that we the people, including new arrivals in America, seek—to live in peace, security and happiness and to eradicate MS-13.

    During my tenure as mayor of Glen Cove, N.Y., we enjoyed the lowest crime rate of any community with more than 20,000 people on Long Island. My city is a mashup of immigrants and multigenerational families. We achieved public safety and harmony by relying on two fundamental American credos.

    First, all men and women are created equal. Not “all men and women with U.S. passports or green cards.” All human beings are entitled to the same respect and dignity. Issues from public safety to immigration reform cannot become an excuse for racism or other forms of discrimination.

    The second credo is “all men and women are equal under the eyes of the law.” If you live in America, whether you are a newcomer or a descendant of the Pilgrims, you must obey the law.

    And that’s where our 45th president’s words and actions become problematic. To protect those who obey the law, and to take down those who break it, particularly members of MS-13, community policing is central.

    The key to community policing is a healthy, respectful and productive relationship between police officers and the community they are sworn to serve and protect. Mr. Trump’s approach—his sweeping rhetoric that lumps all immigrants together, his proposal to curtail legal immigration drastically, his failure to support a bipartisan permanent fix for beneficiaries of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, his elimination of temporary protection status safeguards—amounts to a war on immigrants, a war far beyond MS-13, which has a chilling effect on police-community relations with Latinos in America.

    Police must be able to work with law-abiding people to identify MS-13 members and movements in their communities. While overseeing police departments as Glen Cove mayor and Nassau County executive, I saw community-policing stop MS-13 in its tracks. During my time as executive, Nassau was the safest county of more than 500,000 inhabitants in the U.S.

    In contrast, when people are afraid to cooperate with the police because of Mr. Trump’s words and his administration’s crackdown on Latino immigrants, local leaders in the fight against MS-13 are pushed into the shadows. It’s a tragedy when people are afraid of the police and of government in general—afraid of reprisal from the officials every American relies on for protection.

    My grandfather and father were immigrants from Italy. As a first-generation American, I could not be prouder or more inspired by their success as newcomers to this great nation. I am also keenly aware of how the criminal actions of a sliver of Italian immigrants were once used to disparage and deny opportunity to all Italian newcomers to America in the first half of the 20th century.

    We cannot make the same mistakes by equating MS-13 with law-abiding immigrants from Latin America. Sadly, Mr. Trump—on a near daily basis—careens down this dangerous and destructive path. The president should put divisive language aside, support law-abiding immigrants, and make community policing more effective. And then he needs to be open to common-sense solutions for the DACA crisis and for comprehensive immigration reform.

    (Mr. Suozzi, a Democrat, represents New York’s Third Congressional District)

  • New York International Punjabi Society organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards Gala Dinner

    New York International Punjabi Society organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards Gala Dinner

    HICKSVILLE, NY(TIP): New York International Punjabi Society, Inc. held Vaisakhi Celebrations and Awards gala dinner, May 18 at Antun’s in Hicksville.

    Prominent Punjabis were honored for their contribution in various fields. The honorees included Dr. Urmilesh Arya (Community Appreciation Award); Sant Singh Chatwal (Punjabi Icon of the Year); Harry Singh Bolla (Punjabi Entrepreneur of the Year); Saleem Iqbal (Community Appreciation Award); and Mohinder Singh Taneja (Ambassador of Diversity Award).

    Harry Singh Bolla and Mrs. Bolla receiving award from Tom Suozzi and NYIPS President Dr. Uppal.
    Mohinder Taneja receiving the award. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Jagjit Singh Bedi, Mohinder Taneja, Joseph Saladino, Tom Suozzi, Laura Curran, Dr. Uppal, Paul Kandhari

    Present on the occasion, besides community, were Congressman Tom Suozzi, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, and Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, among others.

    A lighter moment
    A group photo of the occasion

    An attractive cultural program and a delicious feast added to the pleasure of the gathering.

    Here are some pictures of the occasion.

  • Mondello steps down

    Mondello steps down

    HICKSVILLE, NY(TIP): An era ended with the resignation of Joseph Mondello, who has chaired the Nassau County Republican Party for the past 35 years.

    Although his announcement cites a desire to spend more time with his wife, kids and grandkids as the reason for stepping down, Mondello, 72, is up for an ambassadorship to Trinidad and Tobago, and has long been expected to give up the chairmanship.

    He went out with one last salute to his allies and a final barb to his antagonists in the media. “No matter what the future holds, or where that future takes me a big part of me will always be here – at 164 Post Avenue – where so much history was made – and no matter what the media says – so much good was done for the people of Nassau County,” he said in a statement.

    What now for the future of the Nassau County Republican Party and its leadership? The county committee is expected to meet Thursday and a vote on leadership could come then. But in some ways, the future is as uncertain as it was when Mondello took over after the conviction of his predecessor, the late Joseph Margiotta, on extortion and mail fraud charges.

  • Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Venditto acquitted in corruption case

    Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Venditto acquitted in corruption case

    LONG ISLAND, NY(TIP) Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto was acquitted Thursday, May 24, on all corruption-related charges as a federal jury delivered a partial verdict before continuing its deliberations on his co-defendants, former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and his wife, Linda.

    Venditto was cleared on 27 counts that included federal program bribery, honest-services wire fraud and securities fraud in the trial now nearing the end of its 11th week.

    Prosecutors had alleged that Venditto, 68, of North Massapequa, accepted free limo rides and other perks from Singh and, in exchange, helped Singh obtain the more than $20 million in business loans pegged to Oyster Bay’s creditworthiness.

    “Mr. Venditto, you are excused. Good luck,” Azrack said after his verdict was read.

    “Thank you,” he replied.

    He remained stoic in the Central Islip courtroom as, count by count, the “not guilty” findings became a refrain.

    “From the very first day I started in law school, I have had nothing but faith in our justice system and the events of today confirm that faith,” Venditto told the gathered mediapersons after he was dismissed with the well wishes of U.S. District Judge Joan M. Azrack.

    Meanwhile, Jury is set to deliberate on Mangano and Linda cases on Friday, May 25.

  • Harendra Singh files for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

    Harendra Singh files for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

    CENTRAL ISLIP, NY(TIP): Harendra Singh, the key witness in the federal corruption trial of Nassau County’s former executive and Oyster Bay’s former town supervisor, has filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in U.S. Eastern District Court in Central Islip.

    Court records show that Singh, also a former Town of Oyster Bay concessionaire, filed for bankruptcy protection on April 20.

    Singh, 59, of Laurel Hollow, asked in the voluntary bankruptcy filing to make installment payments on the filing fees. The fee for filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is $310, according to the website for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District.

    Singh’s bankruptcy petition, filed without an attorney, listed two creditors, CIT Bank, N.A. of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and LoanCare LLC, a mortgage servicer based in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

    CIT Bank sued Singh in August 2016 in New York State Supreme Court in Mineola alleging he had stopped making mortgage payments on his Laurel Hollow home beginning Oct. 1, 2014 and owed $2.5 million plus interest. On July 20, 2017, New York State Judge Thomas Adams granted summary judgment in favor of the bank. On Jan. 9, Adams ordered the property foreclosed and to be put up for sale and awarded CIT Bank $2.9 million plus interest and fees.

    Under a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor seeks a payment plan to repay his or her debts.

    In October 2016, Singh pleaded guilty to bribing former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto. Mangano, his wife, Linda, and Venditto are currently on trial in federal court in Central Islip. They have pleaded not guilty.

    (Source: Newsday)

     

  • Indian American Forum Honors Five Women with Achievement Award

    Indian American Forum Honors Five Women with Achievement Award

    Nassau County Executive Laura Curran presents awards at a glittering gala to Pinky Rangi, Dr. Isha Mehta, Nami Kaur, Reema Rasool, Ananga Manjari Malatesta Gonzalez

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Four distinguished women were honored with Achievement Award for their outstanding achievements. They included Pinky Rangi, Dr. Isha Mehta, Nami Kaur, Reema Rasool, and Ananga Manjari Malatesta Gonzalez.

    Nassau County Executive Laura Curran presented the awards at a glittering gala at Antuns by Minar in Hicksville, March 22, a day after the official arrival of Spring, albeit with a lot of snow.

    Speaking on the occasion, County Executive lauded the honorees for their achievements and hoped many more women will come forward to play significant role in the County. She spoke of many opportunities available in Nassau County to women entrepreneurs and exhorted women to take advantage of them.

    The gala which was attended by a couple of local politicians and oficals, attracted a large number of community members

    Those who addressed the gathering included IAF founder Bobby Kumar Kalotee, IAF chair Indu Jaiswal, and Mohinder Taneja, IAF PR chair. Gala chair Shammi Singh welcomed guests.

    A colorful entertainment program was the highlight of the evening.

    Profiles of honorees

    Pinky Rangi

    Pinky Rangi came to the USA in February 1964 with her parents. Her father JS Premi was commissioned to open the first Indian government office of the Handicraft Handloom Export Corp at the World’s Fair in NY.

    Pinky started her career with her father in 1972. She had just finished high school, and at her father’s request, joined his company. She was planning to study medicine and got accepted to Barnard at Columbia University. Soon after she started, she designed a line of costume jewelry and scarves that took off immediately. That sign was too much to ignore, so she was in the fashion business to stay! She then moved full-time into designing and selling her father’s clothing line. So far for the beginning.

    She met her husband Raj Singh in 1975, who was also working in the same business. With a common interest (that was the foundation for their love), they decided to start their own company in 1977 called “Pinky “. Within the first year they made major strides, selling to many major department stores and specialty stores. In 1980, they launched a line for children in one of the most prominent stores on the west coast – JW Robinson’s.

    With their desire to get into a more of a designer line in 1986, they launched their flagship brand, Ultra Pink. Their initial projection was $12 million yearly revenue, but to their surprise it grossed over $100 million. By the fifth year, the brand was global. At this point, the sky was the limit. Their peak was over $500 million in revenue from 1988-1992, providing licenses worldwide. Ultra Pink became a household name for all school kids! Some high- lights; they sponsored Miss Teen America, hired Michael Damien from the “Young and Restless “as spokesperson, launched an MTV ad campaign nationwide with their product, donated a certain percentage of every garment sold as proceeds to the Make A Wish Foundation, and much more

    In mid 90’s they had major business setbacks due to market crashes and major bankruptcies of many stores where they experienced disastrous losses. They had to reorganize and restart, and today they are back with a very successful business selling to many major department stores all over the country. Currently, Pinky is the president of two brands – Ultra Pink and Pinky, which they have kept strong in the Women’s fashion world by creating and selling trendy sportswear for Juniors, as well as Missy and Plus Sizes.

    Dr. Isha Mehta

    Dr. Isha Mehta is President of Rotary Club of Jericho Sunrise for 2017-2018. Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million leaders and problem-solvers who act to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves-by using their passion, energy, and intelligence to solve real problems with real commitment and vision through sustainable projects in areas from literacy and peace to water and health. Rotary Club of Jericho Sunrise, since its inception, has been a partner to continue the mission of Rotary locally and globally with dedicated Rotarians.

    Dr. Isha Mehta is the Chief of Gynecology at Elmhurst Hospital, a Mt. Sinai Hospital affiliate, a position she has held for 15 years.  She is also a clinical assistant professor at Icahn School of Medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine since 2000.

    Dr. Mehta has been working with women in need for more than 25 years. Her many years of experience in helping women have convinced her that a healthy woman is essential for a successful family and the society. Her research and opinions on women’s health and medical practices have been published in peer-reviewed journals and medical texts.

    Dr. Mehta has organized and participated in gynecological and healthcare camps in New York City, Honduras, Guatemala and Ethiopia and rural India. She has also traveled to Bangladesh and Guatemala several times for surgical camps. Her ability to speak several languages allows her work to attain a wider berth of impact and transcend beyond man-made barriers. One of her personal missions is to make a difference in a person by a person, of which these health care camps are just the beginning of fulfilling such a dream.

    When Dr. Mehta and her colleges founded A Stitch in Time, they knew it would be a timeless organization as it creates clear-cut impacts on the lives of the women they treat and their families.  In her experience, successful pelvic surgeries are life-changing, and the benefits are life-long when performed by committed and experienced gynecological surgeons. For the past five years since its inception, A Stich in Time has grown and the impact it has made on women’s lives, young and old, is immeasurable.

    Her husband, Dr. Parag Mehta is Senior Vice Chairman of Department of Medicine and Chief Medical Information Officer of New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, affiliated with Weil Cornell Medical School and New York Presbyterian System. Her daughter, Ruju, is an Environmental Engineer working at WSP and other daughter, Setu, is a freshman at Harvard University and is motivated to follow her dream in medicine.

    Nami Kaur

    Jasbir “Nami” Kaur is a freelance marketing communications consultant and volunteer in four organizations, after completing a corporate career at IBM Corporation.

    Nami is donating her skills and services to the nonprofit sector. First, she serves on the Executive Board of Children’s Hope India (CHI); a New York based nonprofit organization. At CHI, she initiated its Social Media engagements, coordinated the development of its Business Plan with an intern from New York University, and led the project to develop its new website with a team of CH2 volunteers and an external website contractor. She also manages CHI relationships with the South Asian media to distribute Press Releases and host selected media at its flagship fundraiser events. Nami manages outreach initiatives with selected dignitaries to invite them, solicit their congratulatory letters for the event journal, and host them at CHI key events.

    She is currently the Chair of the Media Council at GOPIO (Global Organization of People of Indian Origin) International, a global advocacy NGO for people of Indian background living outside India. Additionally, at GOPIO she is the Editor of the monthly GOPIO Newsletter. Previously she completed a four year term as Secretary of GOPIO International and has served as a volunteer since 1989. She manages relationships and communications with the South Asian media via press releases, alerts, and press conferences.

    Nami was elected to serve on the Board of her Riveredge Coop Building where she resides. Her focus, along with the normal Board responsibilities, has been to improve communications between the Board, Property Management and the Resident Shareholders. Towards this end she led a team of resident volunteer editors to develop and distribute a quarterly newsletter for the Riveredge community.

    Fourth, she volunteers at the New York Botanical Garden in different assignments at their public relations programs department. She serves as a roaming docent for their key exhibit shows, and as one of many ambassadorial faces of the Garden for the public she receives, ushers, and guides visitors to have a delightful experience at the Garden.

    Her 32 year career at IBM consisted of three sequential tracks in Technology, Marketing and Communications. During her last assignment she was the Analyst and Influencer Relations Manager within the Communications Group at IBM.  She led the external communications with focus on IT and industry analysts for Media & Entertainment, Consumer Electronics, Healthcare and Life Sciences industries.

    Nami holds an MBA in Marketing from New York University, an MS in Computer Science and Mathematics, and a BA in Physics from State University of New York, in Buffalo.

    Reema Rasool

    Reema Rasool is a luxury branding strategist and marketing expert with years of experience in business development, content strategy, social media strategy, image building, media relations and international marketing and market launch. Her work has spanned the field from fashion to tech to finance.

    Reema is the principal of LUXE Consulting Groupe, a New York City based international marketing firm, which specializes in marketing financial products to international investors.

    Reema has worked for and with Conde Nast, Edelman International, JINGO Media, IMG, LVMH, Wells Fargo and the Bulgari family to name a few over the years. Reema has also consulted and held titles at many fashion tech start-ups. She is the founder of SAYWE, a national women entrepreneurs trade association that has been underwritten by Fortune 500 companies for the last 8 years.

    Reema’s latest venture ElleBhi, is closing its first seed round of funding (all women led) and brings together her backgrounds in high fashion and social change.

    Reema has her degrees in the fine art of creative writing from NYU Tisch School and is the proud mom of 2 beautiful boys.

    Ananga Manjari Malatesta Gonzale

    Ananga Manjari Malatesta Gonzalez is a teacher and dancer of the school Gopeswara Danza. She has performed Classical dance of India both in Peru and abroad (India, Canada, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Malaysia and China).

    She has been learning dance from a very young age. Besides learning from her Gurus, she has been blessed to take workshops from some of the greatest exponents of dance including Padma Bhushan Dr Sonal Mansingh, Dr Janaki Rangarajan and Smt. Indira Kadambi to name a few.

    She has also participated in major festivals and performances in both India and Malaysia with her teacher Shankar Kandasamy, bringing with her recognitions and merits in each of her presentations. She was bestowed the titles of ” Yogyata Patra” & “NrityaJyothi” for excellence in her performances.

    Ananga Manjari has extensive knowledge not only in the style of Bharatanatyam Dance she is also trained in ballet and contemporary from the age of 7.

  • Mangano, Linda, Venditto Trial: Harendra Singh Testifies

    Mangano, Linda, Venditto Trial: Harendra Singh Testifies

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Restaurateur Harendra Singh said he saw his long-time friend Mangano as a “connection” that would help his businesses flourish.

    Singh has pleaded guilty to bribing Mangano. The prosecution established that Singh helped Mangano financially throughout his rise in politics, donating thousands of dollars to his campaigns and catering food to his staff, volunteers and friends.

    Singh said he did it to make sure he would have Mangano’s support in his restaurant dealings.

    Singh told the court Thursday, March 15, he rented a building to the Republican at a discount, gave his office free food and bought him a $3,000 office chair.

    It is learnt prosecutors have a long list of witnesses which includes a former Nassau County employee close to Mangano who frequently organized fundraisers for Mangano.

    Between 2010 and last December, Mangano held the highest elected position in Nassau County.

     

  • Police gun down hit-and-run driver who fatally struck man amid rage-filled crime spree

    Police gun down hit-and-run driver who fatally struck man amid rage-filled crime spree

    Mohammed Jaffer

    NASSAU COUNTY, NY (TIP): A hit-and-run driver who killed a Brooklyn pedestrian Monday, March 5, was later fatally shot in a bizarre confrontation with police on Long Island, authorities said.

    The fatal shooting in Great Neck capped a bloody, rage-fueled crime spree that began at 8:35 p.m. Saturday, March 10 when the suspect punched out a 77-year-old man in the South Bronx and robbed him of $20, authorities said.

    At 3:45 a.m. Monday, the 46-year-old culprit, whose name wasn’t immediately released, struck a 50-year-old pedestrian at Metropolitan Ave. and Grand St. in Williamsburg.

    The pedestrian, who has a young son and lives in Brooklyn and relatives in Mexico, died of head trauma at Woodhull Hospital less than an hour later, authorities said.

    The spree then spread to Manhattan, where the killer carjacked a Honda Odyssey from a woman delivering newspapers at Madison and Montgomery Sts. at 4:30 a.m., leaving the hit-and-run vehicle behind.

    About 10 minutes later, at West and Harrison Sts. in Tribeca, he punched the driver of a 2018 Acura in the face and switched cars again.

    His rampage ended at Maple St. and East Shore Road in Great Neck at about 10:30 a.m. — when the 46-year-old, by then driving a Volkswagen, refused to move at a stop sign, Nassau County police said. When two van drivers behind him started honking, he emerged, baseball bat in hand and the clobbered driver in the head.

    A cop on patrol confronted him, but he refused to drop his bat. A good Samaritan then rushed to help, and the suspect hit him in the head with the bat too, Ryder said. “And the officer had no option but to fire,” he said.

    Medics rushed the bat attacker to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, where he died. The bat-attack victims were also treated at the same hospital, while the officer went to Nassau County Medical Center.

  • Former Nassau County Executive Mangano’s Trial to begin on schedule

    Former Nassau County Executive Mangano’s Trial to begin on schedule

    CENTRAL ISLIP, NY (TIP): Newsday reported March 8 that despite a late turnover of text messages recovered from the star witness against former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and former Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto, a federal judge said Thursday, March 8, the corruption trial is on schedule to begin next week.

    Jury selection will take a day to complete on Monday and opening statements will be Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Joan Azrack said.

    Testimony is scheduled to begin Wednesday, most likely with the key witness in the case, restaurateur Harendra Singh, who has pleaded guilty to bribing Mangano and Venditto.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Treinis Gatz said she expected Singh to be on the stand for two days on direct examination, before the defense cross-examines him the following week.

    Mangano has been charged with conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud and extortion. His wife, Linda, has been charged with making false statements, conspiracy and obstruction of justice. Venditto is charged with conspiracy, bribery, securities fraud, wire fraud, making false statements and obstruction of justice.

    All three have pleaded not guilty and will stand trial together.

  • Nassau County Human Rights Commission holds Vigil for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Florida Parkland shooting victims

    Nassau County Human Rights Commission holds Vigil for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Florida Parkland shooting victims

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Human Rights Commission of Nassau County organized, February 20th, a vigil for the victims of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Parkland, Florida.

    Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder assured residents of police vigilance to ward off any attack on a school

    County Executive Laura Curran, Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, Legislator John Ferretti, Legislator Rose Walker, Legislator Ellen Birnbaum, Legislator Kevan Abrahams, Legislator Rich Nicolello, Legislator Vincent Muscarella, NCHR Commissioners, Executive Director Rodney Mcrae attended, besides Community Political, Religious leaders, and the media.

    About a dozen school kids held placards which said schools should be safer for children.

    Speakers described the shooting as one of the worst shootings in recent years which took away 17 young lives. In one voice they said there was need to have stricter gun control laws if such tragedies were to be averted in future. Speakers suggested background checks, mental health checks, and keeping dangerous guns off the reach of everyone.

    NCHRC Chairman Bobby Kalotee said the outdated gun control laws need to be looked in to make schools and neighborhoods safe.

    Prayers were offered prior to address by speakers. Dr. Bobby Kalotee, Chairman of NCHRC conducted the meeting.

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  • Indian American NUMC surgeon from Long Island walks free of all criminal charges

    Indian American NUMC surgeon from Long Island walks free of all criminal charges

    LONG ISLAND (TIP) : Indian American surgeon Dr. Venkatesh Sasthakonar has been cleared of all criminal charges by a judge in Nassau County, Long Island, according to news reports.

    The well-known surgeon was accused by a nurse of allegedly trying to strangle her with an ‘elastic cord’ following differences over some medical procedures. But a judge exonerated him on Feb. 20, and police said there was insufficient evidence that any crime occurred after examining videos and talking to colleagues at the hospital. The 44-year old doctor is a veteran weight-loss surgeon. He  had consistently maintained his innocence. News reports quoted the doctor’s attorney saying the nurse’s story was a complete lie.

    Outside the courtroom after the judge pronounced the verdict, Dr. Sasthakonar was surrounded by friends and well-wishers . He occasionally became emotional as he recounted his traumatic experience.

    “What happened to me didn’t hurt me,” he is quoted saying in the abc7ny report, adding, “What happened to (my wife) and the kids is what hurt me…I thought being a good person could protect you against bad things happening to you, against evil. I don’t trust that anymore.” Dr. Sasthakonar is married to an internal medicine physician.

    “I hope nobody goes through this hell including the person who started all this,” Sasthakonar’s wife is quoted saying in the cbslocal.com report, adding, “What happened in the past month was a nightmare.”

    “After thoroughly reviewing this case, interviewing witnesses and analyzing surveillance video, it has been determined there is not enough evidence to support that a crime occurred,” Brendan Brosh, a spokesman for Nassau County District Attorney’s office, is quoted saying in a statement on cbslocal.com.

     

  • BJP victory in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly Elections Celebrated

    BJP victory in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly Elections Celebrated

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Indian American Community organized a grand victory celebration in Hicksville, Long Island on December 19.

    Jagdish Sewhani, president American India Public Affairs Committee said that people of Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh have out rightly rejected the politics of casteism, appeasement of minorities and corruption.  They have endorsed good governance and voted for development. The proof is that the BJP has been re-elected for a record sixth time in Gujarat.  In Himachal Pradesh they have totally rejected corrupt Congress government and gave BJP a 2/3rd majority.

    Sharing his personal story, Sewhani said when he was growing up in Gujarat, long hours of power cut were norm of the day. Every year there were riots, and workers went on strike. Ever since BJP has come to power they have changed the face of Gujarat. It is the most developed and industrial State of the country. It has set a gold standard of development in the country. Gujarat now has surplus power. It is now riots and strikes free. There is internet even in villages.

    Women members of BJP celebrate victory of BJP in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections

    Gujarat has reached this development because of a stable and powerful BJP government for nearly last two decades.

    This is the Gujarat Model we need to follow. If we want a developed and powerful India – which is peaceful and strong – the vision of New India that honorable Prime Minister has envisioned, we need a stable and strong government in Delhi for at least for the next three decades.

    BJP members celebrate victory

    India is on its way to Congress Mukt Bharat. BJP/NDA is now in power in 19 states. The credit of victory goes to our dynamic Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modiji, who in last 3 1/2 years has given clean government, set a standard for good governance. India is now marching ahead…. We do not want to be stopped.

    As such we need to work in a mission mode for the 2019 general elections. Our objective should be not only to re-elect BJP, but also target 450 Lok Sabha seats and 50 percent of the popular votes. Such a strong mandate and popular government is essential to accelerate the pace of development march on the path of New India that we all dream of.

    The vision of New India requires uninterrupted power to BJP and Modiji.

    Modiji firmly believes in Politics of Development and Sab ka Sath and Sab Ka Vikas.

    There was lot of excitement in the audience. They were again and again chanting Modi/Modi. The victory celebrations finally concluded with a new slogan of Modiji Jeetega Bhai Jeetega, Vikas Hee Jeetega.

    (Press Release)

  • AAPI QLI hosts 22nd annual gala, honors 4 physicians for excellence

    AAPI QLI hosts 22nd annual gala, honors 4 physicians for excellence

    MELVILLE, NY (TIP): AAPIQLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of Queens and Long Island) hosted its 22nd Annual Convention at Huntington Hilton on Long Island, NY on December 16, under the leadership of its President Dr. Rakesh Dua. It was attended by Chief Guest Congressman from NY’s 3rd district Honorable Tom Suozzi, Nassau County Executive elect Honorable Laura Curran, first deputy commissioner at department of health New York State Dr. Eugene Heslin, many dignitaries and more than 600 guests.

    Nassau County Executive Elect Laura Curran (second from left) was a Guest of Honor). Besides the bouquet she is holding, she was presented a plaque. Others seen in the picture, from L to R: Dr. Jagdish Gupta, President Elect, Mrs. Asha Dua, Dr. Rakesh K Dua, President

    Four physicians, Dr. Mohinder Gupta; Dr. Devendra Mehta; Dr. P. Patrick Basu; and, Dr. Usha Krishnan were honored for their life time achievements and money was raised for many local and national charities. Dr. Ajay Lodha, immediate past president of national AAPI and Dr. Gautam Samadder, current president of national AAPI were recognized for their leadership and contributions to the physician community across the nation.

    “We are here to celebrate our achievements tonight,” Dr. Dua in his Presidential address. He stated that AAPI QLI was registered in June 1995 as a Not-for-Profit Organization by Dr. Narendra Hadpawat to represent all Physicians of Indian Origin in Queens and Long Island, NY. The Inaugural dinner was held on June 3rd, 1995 at Leonard’s of Great Neck, NY and with 150 physicians in attendance.

    In his address, Tom Suozi praised the contributions of Indian Americans to the larger American society. “In this room, you represent the future of New York And the USA. I see an immense pool of talents among you. We are very lucky to have you. You do so much for the nation,” he said. Suozi urged AAPI members “not to allow others to pull up the ladder from behind.

    Dr. Prachi Dua did a wonderful job as Master of Ceremonies

    Echoing the sentiments, Dr. Gautam Samadder, President of AAPI, in his address, pointed out to the ongoing discrimination experienced by Indian American Doctors. He called upon the AAPI members to “stand united, in order to be able to fight for our rights,” while pointing to the fact that Indian American Physicians service every 7th patient in the nation and contribute to the healthcare industry in the nation.

    In his inaugural address as the incoming President, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, President-Elect of AAPI QLI, announced the exciting new programs for the members in the year 2018 under his new leadership. “We want to continue to be the most vibrant, transformative and politically active Chapter among all AAPI chapters in the nation,” he said.

    Honorees Dr. Mohinder Gupta, Prof. Davendra Mehta, Dr. P. Patrick Basu, Dr. Usha Krishnan with the Chief Guest Congressman Tom Suozzi and AAPI-QLI officials

    The Mission of AAPI Queens and Long Island has been to represent the interests of all physicians of Indian Origin in the area including providing Continuous Medical Education (CME) and engaging in charitable activities for the benefit of our community at large. Since its inception there was a strong alliance with and support from National AAPI.

    Honorees Dr. Mohinder Gupta, Prof. Davendra Mehta, Dr. P. Patrick Basu, Dr. Usha Krishnan with the Chief Guest Congressman Tom Suozzi and AAPI-QLI officials

    AAPI QLI grew rapidly in membership and was well accepted by all other local and national professional organizations. From the very beginning the leadership put heavy emphasis on transparency and the democratic process, which is the main ingredient for its enormous success. AAPI of Queens and Long Island currently represents 660 active physicians and donates more than $60,000 annually for charitable purposes. It is also one of the largest chapters of National AAPI.

  • Eminent Oncologist Padma Shri Dattatreya Nori Honored with the title “"Living Legend in Cancer Treatment "

    Eminent Oncologist Padma Shri Dattatreya Nori Honored with the title “"Living Legend in Cancer Treatment "

    Indian Cancer Congress, at its meeting held in Bengaluru from November 8 to 12, conferred the title of “Living Legend in Cancer Treatment” on New York based eminent Oncologist Padma Shri Dr. Dattatreya Nori.

    India Cancer Congress is the largest society of oncologists in India Over 3000 oncologists from US, UK, India and Australia attended the meeting which is held
    once in four years.

  • Dr. Satish Anand celebrates 75 glorious years of Blessings, with many more to come

    Dr. Satish Anand celebrates 75 glorious years of Blessings, with many more to come

    GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): Dr. Satish Anand turned 75 on October 21and the family decided to celebrate his 75th birthday. Wife, Gitanjli, daughters Aikta and Vaishali, their husbands Mukesh and Amit, and the five grandchildren decided to have it big with Dr. Anand’s colleagues, friends and relatives.

    Thus, on December 2, it was party time at Akbar Banquet and Restaurant in Garden City where it was a kind of a reunion for many of Dr. Anand’s friends and relatives. Old colleagues and friends recalled old days and revived old memories. Their narratives may have been different but there was a thread of unanimity when it came to describing Dr. Anand. Each one of them described Dr. Anand as a perfect gentleman- humble, caring, accommodating and extremely warm. His unflinching faith in God and his unfailing courage in charting the course of his life despite his physical handicap invited their admiration and appreciation. And, on top, each of his old friends described him as a man who always cherished the finest family, social and professional values.

    The highlight of the celebration was an entertainment segment wholly crafted and presented by the family. The five grandchildren of Dr. Anand stole the gathering’s hearts with their lovely performances which included, singing, dancing and   a bit of acting in an adorable skit. The credit should be given to Aikta and Vaishali who must have spent hours and days training them for a memorable performance.

    Dr. Satish Anand and wife Gitanjli spoke briefly to thank the gathering for their affection and presence. It was a pleasure to find them singing a duet, which, one can guess they must have been warbling all their lives.

    Many more years of health and happiness to Dr. Satish Anand. Tum jeeyo hazaron saal  aur saal ke din hon pachaas hazaar.

  • INOC, USA Maharashtra Chapter Celebrates Anniversary

    INOC, USA Maharashtra Chapter Celebrates Anniversary

    NEW HYDE PARK, NY (TIP): Maharashtra Chapter of INOC, USA held its anniversary celebration at Nan King Restaurant in New Hyde Park, New York together with the National Executive committee members, various chapter heads, and Congress supporters from India’s commercial hub. Mr Devendra Vora, President of Maharashtra chapter welcomed the guests and detailed his plans to expand the membership and to strengthen the Chapter.  

    Mr George Abraham, Chairman of the INOC, USA implored the audience to be vigilant against the current onslaught by the BJP government against India’s venerable institutions that were built under the Nehruvian vision. Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President spoke about the current challenges party is facing in the upcoming elections and exhorted the Congress loyalists to come together and fight the elements that promote communalism.

    Mr Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General, extolled the dynamism of the State of Maharashtra and the vibrancy of the Marathis.  As the second most populous state in India, it plays a vital role in the economy and politics of India. We look forward to our colleagues from Maharashtra to harness strong support for the Congress cause.

    Mrs. Malini Shah, Vice-President of the National Committee and the Chairperson of the Maharashtra Chapter urged the gathering for more active participation in the community-at-large.

    Prof. Indrajit Saluja, editor of Indian panorama spoke about the authoritarian and polarizing forces in India and U.S. and spoke about the urgent need to guard against such ideologies. He also denounced the recent tweet by President Trump of the unverified Muslim videos from a right group in U.K.

    Priscilla Pinto, vice-president, Vipul Sanghvi, Executive Committee members of the Maharashtra chapter also spoke.

    Mr Dilip Chauhan, Nassau County Deputy Comptroller of Minority Affairs honored Malini Shah, Devendra Vora, George Abraham and Gautam Sanghavi with citations from the Nassau County Comptroller Hon. George Maragos’ office. The citations were given to recognize these outstanding individuals who rendered significant contributions for the enhancement of the Asian Indian Community and the betterment of goodwill.

    Sherry Dutta entertained the gathering with Bollywood songs of yesteryear. Hema Verani (right) was the emcee of the event.
    Photos / Nisha Rani

    Sherry Dutta entertained the gathering with Bollywood songs of yesteryear. Hema Verani was the emcee of the event.

  • Town of Oyster Bay former Supervisor John Venditto faces 21 new charges

    Town of Oyster Bay former Supervisor John Venditto faces 21 new charges

    One count of securities fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud related to securities offerings; and 19 counts of wire fraud related to securities offerings.

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Those who mistook a period of lull for an end to investigation in to scandals of former Supervisor of TOB John Venditto may have got a rude shock when Venditto was indicted on Tuesday, November 21 on 21 new federal criminal charges involving securities fraud in the town’s public offering of more than $1 billion in securities between 2010 and 2016.

    According  to a Newsday report, the superseding indictment adds 21 more counts to the alleged corruption and kickback case which Eastern District federal prosecutors have already brought against Venditto, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and Mangano’s wife, Linda. The Manganos are not accused in the securities fraud.

    The thrust of the new charges accuse Venditto and unnamed others of being instrumental in the creation of the securities fraud and then failing to disclose in the town’s public offerings what federal prosecutors said is the crux of the fraud: having the town conceal millions in indirect loan guarantees to an unidentified Co-conspirator. Sources have said the Co-Conspirator is former restaurateur Harendra Singh.

    In a parallel action, the Securities and Exchange Commission also filed a separate civil suit, accusing Venditto and the town of securities fraud.

    The 21 new charges Venditto faces are: one count of securities fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud related to securities offerings; and 19 counts of wire fraud related to securities offerings.

    Venditto’s arraignment on the new indictment is tentatively scheduled for December 5th. The Manganos — who are not charged with securities fraud — are also required to appear and plead to the superseding indictment.

    The overall securities fraud and conspiracy counts includes all 30 security offerings the town made between 2010 and 2016. But some are not included in the individual wire fraud counts because the federal statute of limitations on such crimes goes back only five years, to December of 2012.

    Each fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, but if Venditto is convicted he is most likely to get a lesser sentence.

    Venditto previously was charged with obstruction of justice, conspiracy to commit bribery, and making false statements to investigators in connection with his dealings with Singh concerning the loan guarantees.

    (Source: Newsday)

  • Nassau County Human Rights Commission Holds Vigil for Victims in Las Vegas

    Nassau County Human Rights Commission Holds Vigil for Victims in Las Vegas

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Human Rights Commission Chairman Bobby Kalotee organized a vigil for victims of Las Vegas shooting, on the front steps of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building on Wednesday, October 4.

    The mad and evil design of one man claimed the lives of 59 individuals and injured over 520 others, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, several legislators, police commissioner, DA Madeline Singas, some County officials and members of community joined the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights to honor and pray for the victims of this unprecedented act of violence, the worst in modern American history.

    “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the families of those who were killed or wounded in Sunday’s attack,” County Executive Mangano said. “Nassau Police closely monitored the situation and remains on heightened alert.”

     

  • Ex-Oyster Bay officials face judge on several charges

    Ex-Oyster Bay officials face judge on several charges

     WOODBURY (TIP): Former Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto and several other former town officials accused of corruption appeared before a judge on Wednesday, September 27.

    Venditto, who had nothing to say as he left Nassau County court, and six others are accused in several corruption schemes.

    According to Nassau District Attorney Madeline Singas, the owners of an Old Bethpage paving company paid former town planning commissioner Fred Ippolito $1.6 million in exchange for approval to build a senior housing development.

    “It was a huge breech of the public trust,” Singas said. “That’s something we take seriously. Tax dollars should be protected.”

    Ippolito has since died, and charges against him were dropped Wednesday.

    But the attorney for Marissa Lizza, one of the company’s owners, told News 12 that his client did nothing wrong.

    “I don’t think there’s a case against my client, but that’s all I can really say right now,” said defense attorney Marc Gann.

    It was decided in court Wednesday that prosecutors would turn over evidence, including audio recordings and photographs, to the defendants’ legal teams. Other charges allege improper hiring practices and using a town crew to fix a connected resident’s sidewalk at no charge.

    The defendants have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    Another conference between the two sides is scheduled for Nov. 1.

  • Yoshita Singh, a senior journalist and author of the book ‘Shrilal Shukla’s Raag Darbari: Satire in Indian Literature- A Critical Analysis’ honored by Nassau County

    Yoshita Singh, a senior journalist and author of the book ‘Shrilal Shukla’s Raag Darbari: Satire in Indian Literature- A Critical Analysis’ honored by Nassau County

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Senior United Nations and New York journalist Yoshita Singh was honored with a citation as she presented her newly released book, a scholarly and analytical critique on satire in Indian literature based on the work of one of India’s most renowned authors, to Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos.

    Singh is an acclaimed and experienced journalist and has been covering New York and the United Nations for India’s most prestigious news agency Press Trust of India since 2011.

    She presented a copy of her debut book ‘Shrilal Shukla’s Raag Darbari: Satire in Indian Literature. A Critical Analysis’ to Maragos at his office in Nassau County on Au-gust 18. Also present on the occasion was Deputy Comptroller for Minority Affairs Dilip Chauhan. Maragos honored Singh with a citation that noted her new book.

    Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos honoring Senior journalist Yoshita Singh with citation during presentation of her new book ‘Shrilal Shukla’s Raag Darbari: Satire in Indian Literature. A Critical Analysis’ to him on August 18 at the Comptroller’s Office at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY 11501.Seen in the picture, from L to R: Deputy Comptroller for Minority Affairs Mr. Dilip Chauhan, Nassau County Comptroller Mr. George Maragos, Yoshita Singh, Mrs. Savita Mohabe, Mr. Raj Mohabe.

    Singh has “accomplished extraordinary success and have distinguished yourself among your peers,” the citation read adding that Singh has “demonstrated selfless commitment to our community and its residents that warrants attention and gratitude.”

    The citation from the Nassau County Comptroller’s office recognizes outstanding individuals who have rendered significant contributions for the enhancement of the community.

    Maragos congratulated Singh on her new book, expressing confidence that the book will be a notable contribution in the field of literature, not only in India, and will enhance readers’ understanding of the use of satire in depicting prevalent political, social and cultural realities.

    Chauhan also congratulated Singh on her literary achievement, saying the book will definitely add to a reader’s perspective of the use of literary genres to highlight social best practices as well as ills.

    “Singh brilliantly demonstrates in her book that every form of literary expression, be it satire or humor, should be respected for the enduring messages they portray about life,” Chauhan said.

    Singh said she was honored to be able to present her book to the Comptroller and expressed gratitude for his words of appreciation for her and the citation. She said her book is a scholastic analysis on satire in Indian literature, with special focus on ‘Raag Darbari’, a brilliant novel by the late Shrilal Shukla, who is known as among the most accomplished writers in India for his political and social satires. Shukla was awarded India’s highest literary honor, the ‘Sahitya Akademi Award’ in 1969 for Raag Darbari.

    Singh said through her book, she has attempted a critical analysis of Shukla’s use of satire in depicting the realities and sensibilities of rural life in post-independence India and whether circumstances have changed or remained the same 70 years after the world’s largest democracy attained independence.

    Yoshita Singh is Senior Correspondent based in New York for the Press Trust of India. She covers the United Nations and New York for India’s largest newswire, which is headquartered in New Delhi. She has 14 years’ experience and has worked in Chicago, Boston and New Delhi.

    Singh has a Master’s Degree in English Literature from the University of Lucknow in India and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Journalism through distance education from the Symbiosis Institute of Mass Communications in Pune. She also did a digital journalism course from Harvard University.

  • Mangano: IDA Aids New Senior Housing in Downtown Farmingdale

    Mangano: IDA Aids New Senior Housing in Downtown Farmingdale

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced that the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has approved an economic compact that will assist a developer in building an apartment complex in Farmingdale, intended and operated for occupancy for persons 55 years of age or older.

    “This project will further the redevelopment efforts of the Village of Farmingdale as its works with its master plan to revive its downtown and will create new, much-needed housing options for seniors,” said Mangano.

    The compact, approved by the IDA at its Aug. 16 meeting, will assist Ronkonkoma-based Carlyle Building LLC in constructing an approximately 50,497-square foot, 3-1⁄2-story apartment building on vacant land at 776-780 Fulton St. The project would have 24 units, three one-bedroom apartments and 21 two-bedroom apartments.

    Designated as a “Housing for Older Persons” project in accordance with the Fair Housing Act, the development would be intended and operated for occupancy by persons 55 years of age or older. In addition, three of the units will be affordable – one unit will be for a household with an income not to exceed 50% of area median income; and two units will be for households with incomes not exceeding 80% of area median income. The Long Island Housing Partnership will assist in marketing and leasing the affordable units.

    The proposed $7.9 million senior housing project would be the latest addition to the Village of Farmingdale’s downtown renaissance. The project will generate 50 construction industry jobs and 2 permanent full-time-equivalent positions and inject more than $16 million into the Nassau County economy and more than $1 million in new tax revenue.

    Other residential projects in the village’s downtown that have received IDA economic compacts in recent years, include the 42-unit Cornerstone at Farmingdale and the 154-unit complex called Farmingdale Plaza.

    About the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency

    The Nassau County Industrial Development Agency consists of a team of professionals whose mission is to promote the economic welfare and prosperity of Nassau County. It is a resource for businesses in Nassau County and those considering relocation. The IDA provides assistance to businesses interested in relocating, expanding and financing new investments. It has provided assistance to a wide range of companies including Hain Celestial, Publishers Clearing House, Arizona Iced Tea, Dealer Track Technologies and Sleepy’s Mattress as well as Cold Spring Harbor Labs and Grumman Studios. For more information, please visit www.nassauida.org or call 516-571-1945.

  • August is National Immunization Awareness Month

    Nassau County Reminds Parents of Importance of Vaccinations

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP):  Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein remind parents that updating their children’s vaccinations should be added to their back-to-school list.  Vaccines offer the best-known protection against many life-threatening and debilitating diseases.

    County Executive Mangano stated, “The single best way to protect our children and the entire community from these serious diseases is by ensuring age appropriate vaccinations.  Vaccines are among the safest most cost-effective ways to prevent disease and protect health.”

    In addition to the State required immunizations for day care settings, schools and health care providers, the following are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: influenza, rotavirus, hepatitis A and human papilloma virus vaccines.

    “Nassau County continues to see cases of vaccine-preventable diseases, including mumps and pertussis, added County Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein.  Protecting our children from preventable diseases will keep them healthy and in school.  Vaccines are recommended throughout our lives and are a proven and successful public health tool in protecting society from many of these serious diseases.”

    Vaccines are recommended for infants, children, teenagers and adults based on many different factors including age, health conditions, lifestyles, occupation and travel.  Vaccination is a critical step in protecting those who are most vulnerable to illness – infants and young children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions and weakened immune systems.

    For additional information on immunizations for children and adults, visit the New York State Department of Health website at http://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization or contact the Nassau County Department of Health Immunization Hotline weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at (516) 227-9416.

  • Curran Snubs Hispanic Community Preferring Party with Glitzy Friends: George Maragos for Nassau County Executive

    Curran Snubs Hispanic Community Preferring Party with Glitzy Friends: George Maragos for Nassau County Executive

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): George Maragos for Nassau County Executive in a statement on August 3 said, “Last night’s Hispanics United for Nassau County candidate’s forum in Hempstead marked the third consecutive time where Laura Curran and her establishment ticket failed to show up and discuss issues important to Nassau County voters. They were previously truant from forums hosted by the Portuguese Heritage Society and Hicksville Chamber of Commerce. Their absence as candidates is an insult not only to our ethnic and Latino communities but to all whose issues and voices continue to be ignored by both the Democratic and Republican establishment. Rather than face voters to address their concerns and articulate her positions on items of importance to the community, it appears, Curran and her Democratic slate chose to party with select glitzy and special interest friends at a fundraiser.

    The Democratic slate of George Maragos for County Executive, Ama Yawson for County Comptroller, Carl DeHaney for County Clerk and George Siberon for the 5th Legislative Seat presented last night at the Candidates Forum a bold, progressive agenda directly to the people of Nassau County. An agenda that calls for lower property taxes for the middle class, seniors and veterans, more affordable housing, improved public transit and greater opportunities for women, minorities and veterans.

    We have shown that we take no vote, and no community for granted, respect our residents and want to serve everyone fairly and equally. We will continue to work tirelessly to earn every single vote and the trust of all residents we wish to serve.

    (Press release)