MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos recently welcomed World Renowned Philanthropist and International Pioneer of Holistic Healthcare, Dr. Avadhoot Shivanand, to Nassau County at a ceremony hosted by the Shiv Yog Foundation at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building.
Dr. Avadhoot Shivanand is a celebrated humanitarian and spiritual leader of the global Indian community with followers in over 100 countries. His teaching of self-empowerment, sharing unconditional love, and accepting everyone in their originality is believed by his followers to have cured many psychosomatic diseases. His followers, who lovingly call him Baba Ji, felt like they were in the presence of divinity. The honoring ceremony was attended by a standing room only audience of Nassau County followers.
Administration expected to find revenue and expense opportunities to reduce projected deficit
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos released the 2017 mid-year financial projections, which indicate that the County is trending to end 2017 with a $57.6 million deficit on a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) basis and the presentation mandated by the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority (NIFA). The Administration, however, is expected, to find revenue and expense opportunities to reduce the projected deficit, but may be hard pressed to achieve GAAP balance by year-end 2017. The projected GAAP ending fund balances are expected to decline to $67.8 million, down from $170.5 million at 2016, assuming the gap closing opportunities do not materialize.
“Although the County’s financials appear to have improved both on a GAAP and NIFA basis, and the long-term debt of the County decreased by over $100 million compared to 2009, the County’s fiscal challenges remain masked by the use of non-primary funds set aside in prior years to pay approximately $43.8 million in litigation expense,” said Comptroller George Maragos. “These same challenges will continue and increase in 2018 due to anticipated structural cost increases in labor, health care and other mandated costs.”
The noteworthy items affecting the budgetary projection are $10 million of risk in Income and Expense reporting revenue due to litigation, $60 million in lower bond proceeds for property tax refunds offset by a lower expenditure for property tax refund payments due to a 2016 accrual reversal, and a risk of $12.5 million in payroll expense, primarily due to higher termination pay for an increased number of police officers retiring in 2017.
The total long-term debt for the County and its blended component units, NIFA, Nassau County Sewer and Storm Water Finance Authority (SFA) and the Nassau County Tobacco Settlement Corporation (TSC), are projected to decrease by $102.2 million to approximately $3.532 billion after pay-down of $243.8 million in maturing debt (see Section 6.4). We understand that the Administration does not expect to issue any further long-term debt in 2017.
SEAFORD, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced, July 27, that Tackapausha Museum and Preserve will be hosting a family-friendly “Stars and S’mores: A Night of Astronomy” program on August 12, 2017 from 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Reach for the stars with the Friends of Tackapausha! Enjoy a family friendly evening of stargazing and s’mores. Participants will be invited to play games, make a star clock, listen to stories about the stars, meet some nocturnal animals, cook s’mores over an open campfire, and observe the sky through telescopes. The program is $5 per person.
Tackapausha Museum and Preserve
The Tackapausha Museum and Preserve, the first tract of preserve land acquired by Nassau County, is one of the most popular preserves on the South Shore. The Museum and Preserve provides residents with the opportunity to enjoy a physically and spiritually invigorating hike in a convenient and accessible location. In addition, the preserve incorporates a 3,000-square-foot museum with displays about the ecology of Long Island, as well as animal exhibits and shows and interactive activities for children.
The preserve consists of three sections with trails that meander through each part. In the southern section, the preserve is host to the largest Atlantic White Cedar “stand,” or grouping of trees, in Nassau County, located in a swamp just north of Tackapausha Pond, near Merrick Road. In the central section, a small, secluded pond draws waterfowl and amphibians. The northern section, between Clark and Jerusalem avenues, includes a small wetland.
Tackapausha Museum and Preserve is located at: 2225 Washington Avenue, Seaford, NY 11783 and is open Thursday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Regular admission is $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for children over 5 and senior citizens. For further information please call: (516) 571-7443 or visit the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums at: www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Effective August 1, 2017, the current Living Wage rate for employees of vendors with Nassau County service contracts will increase to $16.07 per hour for employees without health benefits from $15.78, and to $13.98 per hour with health benefits from $13.73. The increases are adjusted annually based on the New York Metropolitan CPI-U Index, and will remain in effect until July 31, 2018.
The Nassau County Living Wage Law was enacted by the Nassau County Legislature in 2006 to raise the minimum wage of the employees of vendors with County service contracts. The County Attorney is responsible for calculating the annual increases and the Comptroller’s Office is responsible for auditing the rate increase and in monitoring compliance with the Law.
For a copy of the updated Living Wage Law Poster please connect with Nassau County Comptroller Maragos online: http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/Comptroller/index.html
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Indian American Voters Forum made history when its panel consisting of prominent community leaders interviewed Laura Curran, the Democratic Party nominee for Nassau County Executive, with more such interviews in the pipeline. The purpose of the prescreening session was to determine the candidate’s election platform, experience, and electability, as well as her understanding of the issues and concerns of the Indian community.
The interview was moderated by Varinder Bhalla, chairman of the Indian American Voters Forum with a panel consisting of Dr. Ajay Lodha, former President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, Dr. Sunil Mehra, former President of AAPIQLI and India Association of Long Island (IALI), Ratna Bhalla, former Deputy Commissioner of Nassau County, Gunjan Rastogi, Vice President of IALI, Sunil Modi, former President AIA NY Chapter, Beena Kothari, former President IALI, and Vijay Verma, a philanthropist and entrepreneur.
“In view of recent corruption scandals in Nassau County and Oyster Bay, what specific steps will you take to ensure there is transparency and accountability in your administration; and corruption is rooted out in our government?” asked Dr. Lodha.
Curran’s response: “Launching a new era of transparency, I will appoint an independent inspector general to oversee all contracts; every county check written to a vendor will be posted online. I plan to hire the best and the brightest to work in our government and all hiring decisions will be made based on what you know and not on who you know.”
“NIFA was brought in the year 2000, temporarily to oversee the County’s finances and put its fiscal condition in order. Seventeen years later, NIFA is still there with no improvement in the situation. What is your approach to solve the ongoing fiscal problems of Nassau County?”, Dr. Mehra enquired.
Curran, a former trustee of Baldwin school board, claims she has her plan. “At the governmental level, we will make our best efforts to grow the tax base, attract businesses to Nassau County and develop affordable housing so our young professionals don’t leave. We will also look at the entire budget line by line.”
“All of us like to bet on a winning horse. What are your chances of winning the primary against George Maragos in September and then winning against Jack Martins in the general election?”, asked Bhalla.
Curran declared, “I am the official nominee of the Democratic Party and have been endorsed by Congressman Tom Suozzi, Congresswoman Kathleen Rice and former Congressman Steve Israel, as well as Assemblyman Charles Lavine and State Senators Todd Kaminsky and John Brooks. I also have the support of the Working Families Party and several Labor Unions.” As per reports filed with New York State Board of elections, Curran raised nearly three quarters of a million dollars compared to less than $3,500 raised by her opponent George Maragos.
Responding to Gunjan Rastogi’s question about appointment of Indian Americans in her administration, Curran assured the panel that all high level appointments will be merit based and not political and serious consideration will be given to qualified Indian Americans. She also assured the panel that she would take steps for increased contracting opportunities for minority businesses.
Curran, a second-term legislator from Baldwin, submitted 27,304 signed petitions, believed to be the most ever submitted by a Democratic county executive candidate. The Democratic nominee also submitted petitions to run on the Working Families and Women’s Equality lines. Her opponent George Maragos, a Republican turned Democrat who is serving his second term as comptroller, submitted 20,241 petitions. The winner of the September primary will face former state Senator and Republican nominee Jack Martins in November.
Curran patiently answered tough questions on several issues – including high property taxes and hate crimes – to the satisfaction of the interview panel.
Indian American Voters Forum is a bipartisan committee of community activists, not beholden to any political party. Founded in 2003, the Forum has conducted debates among candidates running in the local elections, and has also been instrumental in recruiting several congressional leaders to join India Caucus in US Congress.
For more information about this news release, please contact Varinder K. Bhalla at VarinderBhalla@gmail.com or 516.680.8037.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller Hon. George Maragos welcomed Dr. Avadhoot Shivanand to Nassau County at a ceremony hosted by the Shiv Yog Foundation at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, June 13.
Dr. Avadhoot Shivanand is a celebrated humanitarian and spiritual leader of the global Indian community with followers in over 100 countries. His teaching of self-empowerment, sharing unconditional love, and accepting everyone in their originality is believed by his followers to have cured many psychosomatic diseases. His followers, who lovingly call him Baba Ji, felt like they were in the presence of divinity.
The honoring ceremony was attended by a standing room only audience of Nassau County followers.Comptroller George Maragos in his remarks welcomed Dr. Avadhoot Shivanand as “an inspirational spiritual leader” and presented Baba Ji with a Proclamation to commemorate the honor of his visit.
Dilip Chauhan, Prominent South Asian Community leader said the uplifting presence of Dr. Avdhoot Shivanand which could draw over 600 people in New York for such an intense spiritual ten day event is commendable. He said he was elated as an Indian American and lover of Indian culture for the official recognition extended to Dr. Shivanand. Shiv Yog Foundation has undertaken many projects to serve the humanity such as feeding the hungry, helping farmers, providing education for the poor, distributing free school uniforms, serving the disowned animals and providing free ration to the needy villagers, Chauhan added.
In his remarks, Dr. Avdhoot Shivanand expressed his happiness and praised the Shiv Yogis for their hard work in making the event a grand success. In his remarks, Shivanand Ji noted the success of the Indian community in Nassau County but reminded his followers that “one cannot achieve happiness and success without first health and family. If those two conditions are met, then the attainment of happiness is possible.”
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Indian American Forum on Sunday June 25, 2017, organized an evening of music and dances at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. This program is part of the 2017 summer concert series sponsored by Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums.
The program started with Yoga sessions conducted by Ranju Narang and Group.
Health awareness services were organized by Nassau County Department of Health and Dr Bhavani Srinivasan of AAPIQLI. Indian American Night is a showcase of Classical Indian Music and folk dances from all regions of India.
Nassau County Executive Edward P Mangano was represented by Nassau County Clerk
Maureen O’ Connell. Nassau County Clerk welcomed everyone and presented the honorees with Citations from Nassau County.
Each Year members from Indian America Community are recognized for their outstanding services and contributions. Also present were several other dignitaries and elected officials.
Honorees for the evening included Ms Gita Setia is a trained vocalist. Gita has performed at Indian Consulate, fundraising of Hope Global Project, AIA, LIA and several other programs. She has released two albums composed by her. Currently she is affiliated with ITV Gold a host of a show and music programs.
Dr Rakesh Dua, President of AAPI QLI, largest chapter of National AAPI is actively involved in organizing Health Fairs and Charitable work. Dr Dua is also a passionate Singer and well known for his community services.
Ms Bina Sabapathy, President of India Association of Long Island, Currently employed with Nassau County Department of Social Services, helping people to find employment. Bina is actively involved with Indian America Forum, AWB Food Bank, India Day Parade South Asian Political Action Committee and several other groups.
Ms. Bina Adjani, President of the Rotary Club of Jericho Sunrise, Bina is a true humanitarian, involved in charitable activities and providing help to the needy. Her mantra is has always been Helping People should be to find out what’s actually valuable to someone. Make an effort to ask them where they need help and keep in mind when you see an opportunity to help.
Dr Inderpal Chhabra is the Medical Director of NSLU Care Health Insurance Plan and also Director of Physician CDI Education, NSLIJ Health System. Dr Chhabra is well known for his philanthropic and volunteer services New York and also in all the Gurudwaras…
Dr Rajendra Modi is a well-known ophthalmologist in Queens for the past 35 years… He is active in many social and charitable organizations. He goes to India for free eye camps for poor people since past 30 years. Dr Modi is a Board Member of SANKARA NERTALAYA. And works with SANKAE EYE FOUNDATION
Indu Jaiswal Chairperson of Indian American Forum welcomed every one and thanked all the sponsors and supporters for their participation.
Bollywood Dances by Jyotika Patel and group
A Cultural program, organized by Jaya Bahadkar, was emceed by Dr Bhavani Srinivasan, Several music and dance performances lent color and charm to the celebrations. Students of Sadhna Pranji, Jyotika Patel, and several other schools took part. And presented vocal and dance performances.
Mast Group from YICG Group presented patriotic Medley enjoyed by all. Special thanks to Jyoti Gupta, Sheetal Talati, Mohinder Singh Taneja, Indu Gajwani, Nilima Madan Vijay Goswamy and several Volunteers and Sponsors who helped. Program was well attended by leaders of several organizations.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Ms. Yawson announced, May 24, her candidacy for Nassau County Comptroller, a remarkably accomplished woman with extraordinary credentials not seen in Nassau County Government. Ms. Yawson is a graduate of Harvard University, Cum Laude, and holds a Juris Doctor and a Master’s in Business Administration from The University of Pennsylvania Law School and the prestigious Wharton School, respectively. Ms. Yawson has held positions as senior counsel and as a financial analyst at leading financial institutions such as Citibank and Bank of America. She will join with County Executive Candidate George Maragos for the Democratic Party nomination to restore trust in government and end corruption. Ms. Yawson is committed to ensure that every taxpayer dollar is well spent in order to make Nassau County a better and more affordable place to live and raise a family.
“As a mother of two young boys and a small business owner, I am very aware of how difficult it is for young families to make ends meet in Nassau County. The excessively high property taxes stemming from the pervasive corruption and patronage in government are unbearable for so many families,” said Ms. Yawson. It is time that people such as myself, not beholden to anyone, step forward to reform government, ensure transparency, end patronage to politically connected special interests, and reduce the tax burden on our working families, seniors and veterans. It is time that young people such as myself, with fresh perspectives, step forward to ensure that Nassau County is a place of opportunity for all its residents. I am honored to have been asked by County Executive Candidate George Maragos to run as an Independent Democrat for County Comptroller.”
“Ms. Yawson is a remarkable individual with outstanding credentials not seen in other government officials,” said County Executive candidate George Maragos. No other candidates measure up to her qualifications to be Comptroller. I am honored to have Ms. Yawson running with me on our Independent Democratic Ticket to clean up politics in Nassau County, end corruption, lower property taxes and ensure equal pay for all women and provide for maternity leave.”
About Ama Yawson, JD, MBA
Ms. Yawson is married with two young boys and lives with her husband in Freeport. She is currently the small business owner of Milestales. Milestales is a boutique publishing house and education consulting practice that provides student assemblies and adult training programs on issues of leadership, bullying prevention, diversity, body autonomy, and other topics. Ms. Yawson, is also the author of a bestselling bullying prevention book entitled Sunne’s Gift. She performs Sunne’s Gift and other stories during her life-changing programs at schools, universities, corporations, and organizations all over the country.
Ms. Yawson, previously worked at Citigroup Inc. and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, as Senior Counsel specializing in documentation for; financial transactions and disclosure, capital markets transactions relating to shelf offerings of debt securities, and initial public offerings of equity securities including prospectuses, pricing supplements, term sheets, underwriting agreements, terms agreements, legal opinions, 10b (5) letters, and various certificates. She researched issues and provided legal analyses on various topics including corporate governance and broker dealer regulation. Notable projects included Allison Transmissions $690M IPO, Citigroup’s 1-10 reverse stock split, the remarketing of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority’s $7.5B investment in Citigroup’s Upper DECS Equity Units, and TPG’s $525M purchase of Primedia.
As a mother of young children, Ms. Yawson is a champion of working families. She is also an advocate for entrepreneurs and small business owners through her weekly radio program “How to Make it in the City” which airs on WBAI 99.5FM Pacifica Radio in New York City.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos and Hofstra University hosted a Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Forum on May 17th at the Sondra & David Mack Student Center to promote MWBE opportunities. This first collaboration between Hofstra University and the Nassau County Comptroller’s office attracted over 100 participants from throughout the County. Judith Tyne, Associate Dean and EAP Director of Hofstra’s Scott Skodnek Business Development Center was the guest speaker. The main focus was of the forum was to provide assistance to MWBEs in becoming certified through programs offered by Hofstra. Additionally, the latest contracting opportunities available through Nassau County Government.
“I am delighted to see the robust participation of MWBE businesses at today’s meeting.,” said Comptroller George Maragos. “I thank Hofstra University for offering a great program which is badly needed by many women and minority firms in order to be become certified as MWBEs. About 50% of the attendees were looking for assistance to become certified.”
The meeting was part of Comptroller Maragos’ monthly MWBE advisory meeting which aims to assist MWBE firms to become certified, and to match them with contract procurement opportunities within the County.
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.
George Maragos, Democrat for County Executive Announces Plan to Root out Corruption with Contract, Term Limit and Election Reforms
Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos has announced ambitious plans to root out corruption with contract, term limit and election reforms.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): George Maragos, Democratic candidate for County Executive at a press conference in front of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building, presented an unambiguous and comprehensive plan to end the corruption at all levels of government in Nassau County. The plan simply takes the money out of politics, provides for independent contract procurement and performance oversight, ends career politicians and wrests power away from the Party Bosses who hand pick candidates and gives the power back to the people.
George Maragos highlighted, “The root causes of corruption are always money, career politicians and the almost absolute control of the elections process by the Party Bosses through the Board of Elections. The band aids proposed by hand-picked candidates to the insidious problem of corruption are a diversion to appease voters and will never end the pay-to-play corruption culture. It is time to root out the corruption in Nassau County with a strong comprehensive plan.”
In order to put a permanent end to corruption, and restore trust in Government, George listed a far reaching six-point plan:
Contractually Ban ALL Vendor Political Contributions (Including from Officers,family members and Related LLCs)
Nominate Independent Procurement Director as per Zarb Recommendation (Consolidate Procurement Compliance and Purchasing Director Positions)
Nominate Independent Inspector General as per Zarb Recommendation (Replaces Commissioner of Investigations)
Nominate Independent Board of Elections Commissioners (Eliminate Redundant BOE Political Patronage Positions, Saving the County Over $7 Million Annually)
Enact Public Election Financing (Similar to New York City, to be Funded with the Savings from Board of Elections Reforms)George continued, “Banning ALL vendor campaign contributions of any amount to elected officials and political parties, through contractual terms, will instantly stop the payto- play culture which has been the root of corruption in Nassau County. Strong enforcement through an independent Procurement Director and an independent Inspector General will ensure objective contracting and guarantee the elimination of patronage waste. Any political contributions by County Vendors, their LLCs and family members will be a breach of contract. It’s obvious, simple and constitutional!”Furthermore, George emphasized that, “to truly reform politics in Nassau County and have a government of the people, we must enact term limits to put an end to career politicians, provide for public campaign finance to encourage more citizen participation and convert the Board of Elections (BOE) to civil service with independently appointed commissioners in order to guarantee impartial elections and eliminate the patronage.”The BOE is currently controlled by the Republican and Democratic Party Chairmen. All employees are patronage, handpicked by the Party Bosses and serve at their pleasure. There are two people for every position, one Republican and one Democrat. The BOE annual budget is approximately $20 million of which about $15 million are salaries. Converting the BOE to an independent civil service department will eliminate duplicate positions and immediately save over $7 million annually which could be used for public campaign financing.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): On the steps of Mineola Village Hall, former Mineola Mayor and State Senator Jack Martins announced, April 26, his candidacy for Nassau County Executive.
“For the first hundred years of its existence, Nassau County was the nation’s preeminent suburb and a magnet for investment, growth and prosperity,” said Martins. “Unfortunately, Nassau County’s second century has been marred by high taxes, corruption and fiscal instability.”
Surrounded by dozens of supporters including Mayors from across Nassau County, Martins articulated his vision to restore the public’s trust and reimagine county government. Through fiscal responsibility and accountability, Martins stressed the importance of making Nassau County more affordable for middle class families and returning local control of the county’s finances.
“One hundred and eighty-nine days ago, I called for a change in leadership in Nassau County,” Martins said. “Today, that change begins and we turn the page to begin a new chapter in Nassau County’s history.”
As the state senator representing North Hempstead and portions of the towns of Hempstead and Oyster Bay for three terms, Jack Martins worked to cap property taxes and state spending, roll back the MTA Payroll tax, end the unfair Gap Elimination Adjustment that redirected Long Island’s state school aid to New York City and passed the constitutional amendment stripping corrupt elected officials of their taxpayer funded pensions. Martins also led the Senate’s Workforce Development Task Force and chaired Senate committees on labor and local government.
“Jack Martins is exactly the person Nassau County needs right now,” said Mineola Mayor Scott Strauss. “Jack has the integrity, and the leadership we need in our elected officials.
Jack’s track record as Mayor of Mineola speaks for itself. He restructured Mineola’s finances and put the village on the right track,” concluded Strauss.
As mayor of the Village of Mineola, Jack Martins inherited many of the same challenges facing Nassau County–budget deficits, soaring debt and challenges to its assessment system. As mayor, Martins developed balanced, fiscally responsible budgets and debt management plans that substantially reduced Mineola’s debt and returned the village to a sound financial footing. He also led the effort to create Mineola’s award-winning master redevelopment plan that expanded the village’s economic base through smart growth principles.
“Jack Martins is a leader whose integrity speaks for itself. He will represent Nassau County well. Jack is honest and has the experience to solve the fiscal challenges that Nassau County faces every day,” said Stewart Manor Mayor Michael Onorato. “I’m proud to stand here with Jack and support him for county executive because he will provide honest leadership in Nassau County.”
“Jack Martins will provide the honest leadership Nassau County needs,” said Massapequa Park Mayor Jeffrey Pravato. “As the Mayor of Mineola, Jack distinguished himself as a bipartisan problem solver and I’m confident that, through Jack’s leadership, Nassau County will have a bright future,” concluded Pravato.
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
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 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.
Deputy Consul General Mr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra honors Ms Vandana Sharma with a plaque
George Maragos honors Jehangir Khattak with a citation from Nassau County
George Maragos honors Mr. Mohapatra with a citation from Nassau County
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
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
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
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 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
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 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. .
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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
From 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
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 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
“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.
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.
The 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. “
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos announced Thursday, September 29 that he has submitted “this morning to the Nassau County Board of Elections, an application to change my party registration to Democrat”.
In a statement to the media, Maragos said, “I have been at odds with the Republican Committee over issues of fiscal responsibility, borrowing, waste, and trust in government. I have been at odds over raising the minimum wage, and increased opportunities for Women, Minorities and Veterans. Over time, I found that my values have become more aligned with the Democratic Party.Consequently, this morning, I have submitted, to the Nassau County Board of Elections, an application to change my party registration to Democrat”.
Recalling his association with the Republican Party and the Republican Chairman Mondello, Maragos said, “I want to express my gratitude for the great opportunity he gave me to be of public service. I also, would like to thank my many Republican friends for their friendship. I hope that our friendship will continue and transcend party ideology”.
Setting at rest any impact of his decision on his position as Comptroller, Maragos categorically stated: “My party change will have NO impact on my responsibilities as Comptroller. I will continue to run the office in an independent and bipartisan manner, as I have done in the past six years”.
Commenting on the functioning of Nassau County, he said, “We are all aware that Nassau County faces significant financial challenges, multiple corruption allegations, weak economic growth, and a costly and unfair tax assessment system, We CANNOT continue to borrow in order to pay the bills, defer paying bills, or hit our residents with BIG fees.
“Nassau County can do better! We need to restore trust in government, strengthen public health and safety, eliminate waste, balance the budget without borrowing, and finally fix the broken tax assessment system which is costing tax payers nearly$100M/ per year resulting in higher taxes for many.
“In order to address these pressing issues, today, I am announcing that I will be seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Nassau County Executive.
“As a two term Comptroller, I have intimate knowledge of the challenges facing our government, 35 years of proven senior management experience, and the integrity to deal with the issues facing Nassau County.
“Together, we can make Nassau County a better place to stay, live, find good paying jobs, raise a family, and retire in our homes! I look forward to work closely with Chairman Jay Jacobs and all elected officials to make Nassau County more affordable, vibrant and with a Government we can be proud of.”
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): A Newsday report says that Oyster Bay has terminated its concessions agreements at the town-owned Woodlands catering hall and Tobay Beach with companies formerly owned by indicted restaurateur Harendra Singh, a Town spokeswoman said Tuesday, September 20.
“We were trying to work out or negotiate a termination agreement throughout the summer,” spokeswoman Marta Kane said. “That was unsuccessful.”
Meanwhile, Newsday reported that Former Harendra Singh concessions investors want to remain. Some of the investors who have been operating the concessions at Oyster Bay’s Woodlands catering hall and Tobay Beach want to continue even after being terminated by the town, their lawyer said Tuesday.
On Monday, the town notified the investors that their concessions agreements were being terminated due to defaults on payments in 2015. On Tuesday, investor Ravinder Chopra and his attorney Ed Troy of Greenlawn met with Jonathan Sinnreich of Sinnreich Kosakoff & Messina LLP, Oyster Bay’s outside attorney, and town parks commissioner Frank Nocerino.
“The town issued letters allegedly terminating the concession agreements,” Troy said outside Sinnreich’s Central Islip office afterthe meeting.
The purpose of the roughly 30-minute meeting was “for us to present facts that mitigate against them doing so,” Troy said.
He said his clients still wanted to be involved with the operations as concessionaires though “not as presently constituted” but declined to get into further details.
The companies running the concessions – S.R.B. Convention & Catering Corp. and SRB Catering Inc. -were taken over from indicted restaurateur Harendra Singh by a group of investors known to include Ravinder Chopra, Manoj Narang and Jagadeesan Poola. Harendra Singh faces a January trial on chargesincluding bribery and tax fraud.
The details of the takeover are unclear and Troy advised Chopra not to answer questions from a reporter about whether Singh’s wife Ruby still had a stake in the companies.
Asked whether the concessionaire was in arrears in its payments to the town, Troy said, “that’s an issue that’s in dispute.”
Sinnreich said in an interview that his role was limited to preparing requests for proposals for the concessions and referred questions about the town’s negotiations with the investors – which have been ongoing all year – to attorney Jonathan Pickhardt of Manhattan-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP.
EAST MEADOW, NY (TIP): With the 15th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attack on America quickly approaching, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced that the County will honor the memory of those who lost their lives. A Sunset Candlelight and Remembrance Ceremony will take place Thursday, September 8th at 6:30 p.m. (rain or shine) at the 9/11 Memorial in Eisenhower Park, near Parking Field 6.
County Executive Mangano stated, “The passage of time does not diminish the tragedy that our nation suffered 15 years ago. As we prepare to observe a national day of remembrance on September 11th, it is imperative that we commemorate this day by reflecting and honoring those we lost that tragic morning and the bravery and heroism shown by first responders and our service men and women who continue to make sacrifices to secure our freedom and safety.”
The Remembrance Ceremony will include the reading of names of Nassau County residents who lost their lives in the attacks and will be read by family members at Nassau County’s 9/11 Memorial in Eisenhower Park. The memorial features two semi-transparent aluminum towers, representing the World Trade Center towers, rising 30 feet from a fountain, and also contains two pieces of steel recovered from the World Trade Center.
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