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RESIDENTS DEBATE CHILDREN'S PARK

HURRICANE DONATIONS POOR IN

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NEWS

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

GETTING READY: Boy Scout John Benson III of the 192nd Boy Scout Troop at the Bellmore Presbyterian Church prepares gardens to place around land near a much-anticipated war memorial stone he will unveil to veterans groups on Saturday, November 4, and again to the public on Saturday, November 11, for his Eagle Scout project. Over $6000 was raised in fundraisers held around the community. Included in the photo with Benson (holding the plant) are Nick “Nico” Garcia, Daniel Berry, Max Hahn, David Zeigler and troop leader Rich Czarnecki. At left, Jackie Hahn helps with the gardening tips

NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Merrick Kiwanis Club recently named its new Board of Directors at the Coral House. From left are Lt. Governor Marty Volk, Past-President Hal Horowitz, Secretary Kim Scharoff, President Seth Pitlake, Immediate Past-President Michael Reid, Vice-President Joe Tsentner, and Board of Director members Linda Susman, Gina Katz and Dr. Richard Seibert.

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Vol.5 №1 | 2017

NEWS

Neighbors Face Off Over New Children’s Park in South Merrick “S DOUGLAS FINLAY

hame on anyone who would prevent a children’s park from being built” remarked Joe Baker, president of the South Merrick Community Civic Association, after Hempstead Supervisor Anthony Santino reserved decision at an October town Board meeting until after election on whether to pass a resolution on an Inter Municipal Agreement to build a new children’s park at Wynsum Avenue and Illona Lane in Merrick.

“It’s mind-boggling that the resolution was ‘tabled’,” added Jay Rogoff, chairman of the Let’s Play 11566 Committee to construct the children’s park.

The board meeting, according to Alex Vassallo, chief of staff for Town Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney – which represents the district where many residents have raised $25,000 to get the children’s park built - was to address the need to secure funding of $75,000 from Nassau County and $100,000 from the state before the end of the year when a new county administration is sworn in and could potentially eliminate its support.

Vassello told Your NewsMag it will be hard to determine when – or if - the resolution is brought up again at future meetings.

But he added that Councilwoman King Sweeney had recently reached out to both parties involved in the dispute to resolve the issue.

Building the children’s park at an existing pocket park at the corner of Wynsum Avenue and Illona Lane on the Hewlett peninsula in south Merrick turned into a contentious issue when the town conducted a second survey and found some residents adjoining the park were against it – after an initial survey found them in favor.

After conducting the initial survey in summer 2016 Supervisor Santino wrote a letter to Nassau County Legislator Steve Rhoads (19thLD) [July 28, 2016] saying that

2-TO-1 IN FAVOR OF PARK

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Jay Rogoff, chairman of the Lets Play 11566 committee to build the children’s park, said the town’s initial survey found a ratio of 2-to-1 of those Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney and William Muller, canvassed in favor of attorney for Supervisor Santino, discuss common ground the park, spurring the toward resolution letter to Legislator Rhoads. That letter, at least to Rogoff and park. those on the committee, “was “Where are these new [canvassing] findimplicit in its permission to ings, and what was the scientific criteria for build the park.” applying them?” Lauren Gillen, a Demo“I just don’t know what hap- crat running for the Town of Hempstead pened between our initial sur- Supervisor seat, demanded to know.

Muller said he had put them up on a webvey and the latest one,”Rogoff said. site.

During a meeting of the Adding urgency to the project is that South Merrick Community those who favored the proposed park could Civic Association at the Merhave difficulty reclaiming their investment should the park not be built. rick Clubhouse in late September, William Muller, attorney for Supervisor Santino, CENTRAL OBJECTIONS appeared to explain what hapThe central objections among homepened. He told some 45 in atowners whose property adjoins the open Only 6% of the three-acre park would be used for tendance that further canvass- space at Wynsum Avenue and Illona Lane children's playgrounds ing of the surrounding areas of include the danger it will pose to children in the immediate area, because Wynsum “The Town of Hempstead and I would like the park by the town found that families in curves as it approaches the open space, to formally request funding of a Communi- homes adjoining the open field property creating a blind spot, and parking in front were not in favor of the project – as those ty Revitalization Project in the amount of of homes for these immediate residents. homes and families further away from the $75,000 for a project located in the South “We don’t really want extra cars and Merrick community of your open field were.

“Do we look to pay for a park in the com- trash in front of our homes,” said a resident legislative district.” identifying himself as Howie, whose propThe letter said neighbors munity in which many people have come and the town were seeking out against it?” Muller asked. “It’s hard to erty abuts the open space. to partner to upgrade the approve a project when many people are Aaron Goldsmith sounded incensed facility so it can better opposed to it.” about a children’s park being built in the serve the middle-class One public official, who asked to remain open space. “I have three kids and I oppose families [and children] anonymous, told Your NewsMag that plen- this park being built,” he said. He said the who utilize it throughout open field and park are like a part of his ty of projects have gone through in the face the year. “Coupled with do- of objections. “Opposition doesn’t necesbackyard, adding that his children can play at any one of a number of children’s parks nations and investment by sarily stop a project,” the official said. Cited community stakeholders, was the 2-1 ratio of those in favor in the ini- available nearby, such as Julien Park [on this project that Hemptial survey – suggesting there were those al- the Clubhouse peninsula in south Merstead Town had spearready opposed - and the move by Santino rick], Newbridge Road Park and at Birch to write the letter to Legislator Rhoads reschool. headed with your office “This is not about kids playing at 9 a.m., had the potential of betterquesting reimbursement funding in the it’s more about what people do and the being the community’s quali- face of that opposition.

Muller said that only after Santino signed havior of kids,” he continued.

Joe Baker, South Merrick Community Civic Assoty of life and further enthe letter to Legislator Rhoads did he learn “And a new field would add a greater hancing community parkciation president; Jay Rogoff, president, Let's Play of more opposition growing against the land and open space.”

[CONT. ON PAGE 8] 11566; and Town Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

Your NewsMag

☞ TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGES 2-9: NEWS

Neighbors face off over new children’s park in south Merrick, sending relief supplies to Puerto Rico an ongoing endeavor, Merrick Kiwanis Club names new officers, Boy Scout readies park gardens for his memorial stone unveiling

PAGES 10, 20 AND 22: 2017 ELECTION CANDIDATES

Bellmore Democrat Jeff Gold battles incumbent 19th Legislative District Republican Bellmore Legislator Steve Rhoads with new ideas to help get the county on sure footing once more, while Democrat Eileen Napolitano takes on seasoned Republican public official Tom McKevitt for the right to sit in retiring Norma Gonsalves’ 13th Legislative District seat. Also, for the big prize, seasoned county Democratic Legislator Laura Curran hopes her message of ‘no more corruption tax’ from a Republican County Executive administration will ring loud to help her defeat Republican veteran Jack Martins, who has his own smart ideas to resurrect the county.

PAGE 12: SMALL BUSINESSPERSONS OF THE YEAR

Dan Sabia of Bellmore and Julie Puglin-Folchetti and John Malandro of Merrick become the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce 2017 Small Businesspersons of the Year for their perserverance and ingenuity in turning small ideas into a big ideas that resonate around the communities they live in – and beyond PLUS: Homecoming Kings and Queens of the local high schools show their stuff on the field, another street in North Bellmore dedicated to a fallen resident of 9-11, over 100 bikers assemble to honor and carry the name of Tina Dupuis into posterity, and Bellmore residents take full advantage of the beautiful weather to parade on the newest Halloween costume

WHO’S WHO AT YOUR NEWSMAG Advertising and Publishing

Editing and Reporting

Jill Bromberg

Online

Doug Finlay Erin Donohue

Contact us with story ideas and news at: edit@yournewsmag.com info@yournewsmag.com To advertise, Jill@yournewsmag.com

Phone: 516-633-8590 P.O. Box 15, Bellmore, New York 11710

Bellmore • Merrick

Election Day Decisions

W

ho Will You Vote For On Election Day? Your NewsMag asked candidates questions to learn more about their ideas and positions on current issues. Incumbent Steve Rhoads (R) and Jeff Gold (D) are running to be the legislator of the county’s 19th Legislative District. Candidates Eileen Napolitano (D), and Tom McKevitt (R) are running for the 13th Legislative District position being vacated by Norma Gonsalves (R). Two veteran public officials, Jack Martin (R) and Laura Curran (D) are vying for County Executive, as County Executive Ed Mangano is not seeking a third term.

On the ballot this Election Day, November 7, you will also have an opportunity to vote yes or no to a constitutional convention. Your vote counts!

Residents are debating plans for the children’s park located at the corner of Wynsum Avenue and Illona Lane on the Hewlett peninsula in south Merrick.

Hurricane donations pour in to provide relief to residents of Puerto Rico thanks to Merokian Scott Carlin and Jose Cardona, who put their fundraiser caps on and began collecting much-needed supplies. Their extraordinary humanitarian efforts include collecting over one million pounds of donated goods and arranging for what have been difficult deliveries to Puerto Rico. This quickly developed network of collecting goods and distribution to those in need is now an ongoing endeavor.

After years of hosting fundraiser biker runs for charity, a biker run was ultimately hosted in honor and loving memory of the late Tina Andreotis (Dupuis), owner of Salon T in Bellmore. Tina’s First Annual Biker Run drew approximately 100 bikers and friends to gather and celebrate her life. Over $7000 was raised in her name, and proceeds will be donated to the Making Headway Foundation.

Veteran’s Day is November 11, check inside for the schedule of Veteran’s Day events in your town. On Veteran’s Day I always think of my dad, Oscar Guise, who served in the Korean conflict. Before his passing, he carried the

American flag in the Veteran’s Day parade in my home town. Thank you and God bless to all Veterans. We live in the home of the free because of the brave.

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce honored Dan Sabia, owner of Built Well Solar in Bellmore, and partners Julie Puglin-Folchetti and John Malandro of Kona Ice of Merrick as Small Business Persons of the Year.

The NCCC supports the Shop Local campaign.

Local businesses are the backbone of the community. Chamber members are the ones responsible for the many holiday events in the community that we all enjoy.

The Bellmore Chamber Halloween parade had quite a turn out, as hundreds gathered in costume to parade down Bedford Avenue. Trick-or- treaters were also greeted by merchants giving out treats. The Merrick Chamber Halloween parade took place after press date. Hopefully, there was great weather and photos will be on Your NewsMag facebook page.

There is always something going on “In and Around” the towns. Look for the section inside to find out about live shows, workshops, concerts and important events.

Your NewsMag is delivered to all home in the Merricks and Bellmores free of charge because you live here and are part of the community.

Advertising support pays for Your NewsMag, so please support participating businesses by shopping locally. If you know of something that is newsworthy, please let us know. If your business is having an anniversary or someone in your family is celebrating a special occasion, we want to know. After all, your news is our news. Join us on Facebook to see more photos of community events and visit www.yournewsmag.com for updates through the month.

I hope you enjoy reading Your NewsMag. Jill Bromberg PUBLISHER 516-633-8590 Jill@YourNewsMag.com

Vol.5 â„–1 | 2017

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

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NEWS

Vol.5 №1 | 2017

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Sending Relief Supplies to Puerto Rico an Ongoing Endeavor

roviding relief to the residents of Puerto Rico after the Caribbean island was decimated by Category 5 Hurricane Maria has proven to be a more challenging and difficult task than in providing relief to residents in both Houston and the state of Florida, after they were struck by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Ask Merokian Scott Carlin, who along with Jose Cardona received donations and contributions of well over a million pounds in little over two weeks since the hurricane left the Caribbean island with little-to-no water, no food or medical supplies to sustain its population.

While the two gentlemen have been able to parlay a network that includes some famous people to get planes and cargo ships to transport supplies to the island, the challenge to get the planes and ships back home to transport even more supplies is fraught by a practical financial

necessity to provide materials to fly back to the U.S., to help defray the costs of operating the transports.

At present, there seems to be few mate-

rials to fly back – although the humanitarian incentive is clearly there, and there are resources being provided from some donators to make the trips back to pick up

Merokian Scott Carlin and Jose Cardona, owner of No Limit Auto Body

more supplies. Adding to the practical costs are the realities that even those ships that can dock - with a green light from FEMA to do so when the supplies are not seized - unload their cargo to sit at those docks unable to be distributed to those in need.

“There are not enough people to get the supplies off the ships,” Carlin said.

[CONT. ON PAGE 11]

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

NEIGHBORS FACE OFF OVER NEW CHILDREN’S PARK IN SOUTH MERRICK [CONT. FROM PAGE 3] population of traffic to the existing area,” he concluded.

Dana Rogoff, however, found those arguments particularly specious. A Kennedy graduate who lived near Julien Park before graduating and leaving Merrick only to return to raise a family on the Hewlett peninsula, said plenty of residents from the Hewlett peninsula would travel to Julien Park on the other peninsula, and park in front of homes close to that park.

“No one” in the area surrounding Julien Park complained about Opening to park an increase in traffic, peculiar be“People speed around Merrick all time,” havior, cars parking in front of their homes a resident identified only as Monica, said. or trash spreading around, she said.

“Speeding has nothing to do with the park,” Nassau County Seventh Precinct Deputy Commanding OfficerLeahy, along with Of- she implored, “and those opposed are tryficer Bill Taylor of the precinct’s POP Unit, ing to decide for the rest of us” what we said before those in attendance that there should be able to enjoy in our community. had been only one accident in three years Jay Rogoff showed a map of homes his near the “blind spot” on Wynsum Avenue, committee canvassed when the project and that there is not as much traffic along first started nearly three years ago. The map the street during the week – as has been showed several homes surrounding the perceived. open space as being agreeable to the idea

of a children’s park. But Paul Goldman laughed off the map, saying he lives close to the open space and he was never for the children’s park. He questioned the methods Rogoff used in determining who was for or against the park.

MEETING TAKES PLACE

The SMCCA meeting was seen primarily as an attempt to help bridge the gap in opposing views in building the children’s park to get the project moving once more.

Goldman did appear to reach out with an “olive leaf” to Rogoff, saying the community “has to move forward. Let those of us opposed meet with those who agree” to see where a common ground lies.

Vassallo said that Councilwoman King Sweeney had reached out to both parties to resolve the issue, as well.

A meeting among opposition leaders Aaron Goldsmith and his wife Ali, and Paul Goldman; and Rogoff, Katie Stone and Royce Winnick of the Let’s Play 15566 Committee was brokered with Council-

woman King Sweeney’s days after the SMCCA meeting.

Rogoff said during the meeting the Goldsmiths and Goldman discussed their differences and concerns, and asked where common ground may lie to move the project forward. “Only 6% of the roughly three-acre pocket park would be occupied by playgrounds for two age groups: between 2-5 year olds, and 5-12 year olds,” said Rogoff.

He told Your NewsMag he was in touch regularly with the Goldsmiths and Goldman to continue to explore ways to find a consensus.

He said the project would start “small,” with the 2-5 year-old playground being built first from 50% of the funds needed up front. He considered it a “rush” to get the project moving in the face of elections, to at least build one playground for one small group of children.

Rogoff added that the town was in fact building a new fence around the perimeter of the property.

An email to Matt Coleman, a spokesperson for Muller, asking about the merits of the case before the Hempstead Board, was not returned by press time.

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19th LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

Describe The State Of The County vesting in technology and conIncumbent Steve Rhoads, Republiducting periodic revaluations will make the system fairer and will recan: It is better than it was eight years ago. Democrats’ annual average tax duce annual grievances by getting and spending increases were 4.23% valuations right the first time. and 4.4%, respectively. Under RepubGold: To fix assessment, the county needs to make sure that licans those numbers dropped to 0.3% the reassessment rolls promulgatand 0.7%. We’ve cut $360 million in spending; paid down debt; cut bored are accurate. This requires the appointment of a qualified Assesrowing; substantially closed Nassau’s budget gap and nearly tripled the sor, as the current Acting Assessor county’s reserve funds, earning Nassau Challenger Jeff Gold, lacks the necessary credentials Incumbent Steve Rhoads, its first positive bond rating in years. and skill set. It may also require Democrat Republican Challenger Jeff Gold, Democrat: the services of an outside contracNassau County is failing. It has been misman- tation dollars to New York City, which should tor, since there is no one in the county capabe used for NICE. Albany must create a staaged to the ground. Most of the departments ble of performing a “ratio study.” Once the are working on a skeleton crew, and cannot rolls are accurate, the Assessment Review ble source of revenue dedicated to Nassau provide basic services such as road repair and buses.

Commission needs to be able to individually park maintenance. Our assessment system is consider more than 200,000 tax grievances Gold: Government has to provide basic the least accurate in the state. Prior to 2008, it and grant reductions only to those that actuservices – bus service and water treatment was the most accurate, and the Assessment among them. If NICE is unable to provide ally deserve reductions. The rolls must then Review Commission now has only three resiquality service because it signed a “bad conbe updated at a minimum every three years, if every year proves to be not possible. An accudential appraisers left. The reassessment, tract” the fulfillment of that contract should which is supposed to be revealed to the pubfall on NICE and its shareholders. If NICE rate assessment roll is the most fundamental does not renew the contract the county must job of government, and the current adminislic in January, is doomed, unless legislators take it back, and do better. In contrast, with elected can commit to fixing the problem. tration has failed the public. water treatment, the county does not have the ability to take the contract back, and Suez apHow Are Public/Private Partnerships PerAre Political Mailers Paid For By The Govforming? pears capable of managing the contract and ernment Three Months Before An Election Rhoads: Some are performing better than making a profit. Nassau still needs to oversee Acceptable? others. Suez has been a success with contrac- the outsourced contractors to make sure they Rhoads: You have a right to know what are working for the people, and not solely for your officials are doing, and the feedback tually guaranteed savings, and plant perfortheir shareholders. generated by informational mailings helps mance at historic highs. The creation of NICE guide policy. It is something that should be bus avoided massive service cuts by the MTA. Is There A Need For An Independent Inspec- used responsibly, however. Political mailings Armor has been a disappointment and the are never appropriate, regardless of the time county is now providing services through tor General? frame.

NUMC. These partnerships take advantage Rhoads: Transparency will restore faith in Gold: The Republican majority has a $1.2 of efficiencies in the private sector, otherwise government. In just two years, I have passed services would be provided in-house. legislation reforming the county’s contracting million mailing budget and uses much of that for thinly veiled campaign ads. The total legisGold: You have to recognize a difference process; created a Director of Procurement between NICE and Suez. The county outCompliance, and empowered our Board of lative mailing budget is roughly $2 million.

Ethics and Commissioner of Investigations to This money can be better used for road repair, sourced to NICE because it thought it could provide unprecedented independent overpark maintenance and drug treatment. I prosave money, and did not want to provide what is and should be a basic service. With sight with the ability to investigate any conpose a drastic cutting of the mailing budget Suez, the county had demonstrated that it for all legislators, both Democrat and Repubtractor, employee or elected official and refer could not provide the basic service, was not criminal activity to the District Attorney. The lican, and propose sending informational capable of running the water treatment plants Democrats proposal takes powers vested in mailings only to those residents that opt in to and upgrading them. The county could have an elected Legislature, Comptroller and DA a mailing program. We can better communistill provided the bus service that NICE proand gives them to a bureaucrat, unaccountcate with most residents through email, social media sites, websites and then, if necessary, vides, whereas, water treatment had already able to the voter. by mail. been run to the ground, and hiring an outside Gold: I absolutely support the appointentity for more than $50 million a year was ment of an inspector general, i.e. who is indethe only option.

Is There A Difference Between Fees And Taxpendent of the County Executive’s office and the Legislature, to review all contracts past, es? present and future. This is the only way we What Is The Role Of Government When Rhoads: Ideally, there would be neither. will eliminate the corruption tax that every Public/Private Partnerships Fail?

Fees can be avoided but taxes cannot. Also, homeowner in the county is currently paying. unlike a tax, which is borne solely by property Rhoads: State and county subsidize our bus service. Nassau fully funds its base obliowners, fees are often paid by nonresidents, which pays for the services they use.

How Can Property Assessment Be Regation each year, and has used budget surGold: There is no difference between a fee pluses to preserve under-performing routes. formed? and a tax, when the fee has no bearing on the In April, I travelled to Albany to successfully Rhoads: Eliminating variable levels of ascost of providing the service. The proposed lobby state officials for additional funding; sessment; returning to an elected County Asincreased fee on tickets is a tax on those however, the state routinely diverts transporsessor directly accountable to the voters; in-

2017 | Vol.5 №1

caught in the county’s money grab. It now costs nearly $2000 to buy a house in the county because of fees. Parking at the Coliseum is also just another fee grab.

Why Are You Best Suited To Be - or Continue - In The Legislature?

Rhoads: In two years, I’ve held the line on taxes; produced two balanced budgets; cut $70 million in spending; expanded the county’s panic alarm system to help protect our citizens and extended county fee waivers to families still rebuilding from Superstorm Sandy. I sponsored anti-BDS legislation, 10 Tax Grievance and Exemption Workshops; Public Safety Forums and community meetings, and even sponsored a seminar with the NCPD to teach religious leaders how to better protect schools and congregations. I led the effort to block a cabaret from opening next to homes in Wantagh; challenged NY Rising elevation deadlines threatening Sandy victims; fought the LIRR on behalf of Merrick homeowners; expanded ShotSpotter technology in Freeport; completed $4.5 million in renovations to Wantagh Park; obtained grant funding for projects such as the Bellmore-Merrick roller hockey rink, Seaford Harbor Access Road; Merrick’s Wynsum Avenue Playground and for our local fire departments to purchase life-saving equipment.

Gold: I am a former member of the Nassau County Board of Assessors, and was responsible for discovering errors in the last reassessment and forcing the contractor to fix those errors. I’ve lectured in the community more than 80 times on assessment-related issues, and I administer the 11,000 member Facebook Group – Nassau Grieve Your Tax Assessment Free. I spend over 20 hours a week offering free tax grievance advice online because government is not providing this vital service, and residents should not be forced by a corrupted system to pay attorneys to grieve their taxes. More than any other candidate, I know what needs to be done, as this skill set is lacking in the Legislature currently.

My 24 years of community service includes my Bellmore-based law firm successfully fighting to keep out the White Castle in Bellmore and the Strip Club in Wantagh, as well as shutting down leaking gas stations and polluting restaurants in Bellmore and Merrick. If elected I will open a district office in the community, and I will donate $10,000 to local charities in the district, because they provide vital services the county can no longer provide. I intend to impose term limits on myself and other legislators, incentivize volunteerism and provide tax credits to volunteer firefighters who do not yet own homes.

We can do better.

Vol.5 №1 | 2017

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CONTRIBUTIONS POUR IN FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS [CONT. FROM PAGE 7] But that is all quickly changing, Carlin told Your NewsMag recently with Cardona at the original warehouse in Freeport in which the two first began receiving donations – some very large – on an hourly basis.

AT THE BEGINNING

Both Carlin and Cardona are members of the Long Island Exotic Car Club, one of several around the region. Cardona owns the No Limit Auto Body Shop, which repairs auto bodies and will do occasional restorations. It is his auto body shop that became the original warehouse for storing donations and contributions.

Such car clubs annually hold fundraising events such as Run4Blue, a charity for fallen officers in police departments and their families in the tri-state region. “We’ve raised over $100,000 for those officers” with the charity, Carlin said.

Cardona recalls talking one morning on the phone with Wayne Schneider of Manhattan, who belongs to the Precision Concierge New York car club, when the subject turned to the devastation in Puerto Rico and potential human disaster if some-

thing is not done. With their skill in charitable fundraising, the two quickly agreed to a catered breakfast in which members of the car clubs could bring donations in.

Within days word spread around several car clubs, which began an almost hourly flow of donations of water, baby supplies, non-perishable foods and over-the-counter medications. “We also went to the local box store and purchased any building supplies that could be used to help rebuild structures,” Carlin said.

About one million pounds of donated goods now lie at Javits Center awaiting shipment to Puerto Rico thanks to connections Schneider has in New York City, said Carlin. There are even more donations stored in warehouses in New Jersey thanks to Troy Green of Green Lights Customs, and in Florida, Carlin said, from car club connections in those states.

Through contacts in the car clubs, Carlin and Cardona have also reached several high-profile executives who have arranged for planes and cargo ships to transport the donated goods to Puerto Rico.

Carolyn Aronson, CEO of It’s a 10 Records, Desiree Perez, CEO (The Boss of

Bosses) of Roc Nation Records and FatJoe are among the celebrities that have offered funds and resources, Carlin continued.

“Jorge Posada of the New York Yankees and his wife Laura” are among those who are donating, and executives of Care One and InnovaCare, both medical suppliers, are solidly on board in the endeavor.

“The medical supply people have about 200 people on the ground in Puerto Rico,” Carlin said, now enabling some of those supplies to reach into the interior of the island, where many are still without even communication to the outside world.

“We are able to use a cell phone app to contact people who are in Puerto Rico” who know where people are and how to get supplies to them from donations sitting on the docks, Carlin said.

“If we can get one child life-saving oxygen,” then all the work we have put in to create the network and distribution system to the Caribbean island will be worth it,” they both told Your NewsMag. Carlin further spoke of a tour operator on the island that has been going door-todoor as well, to identify those with needs.

He adds that roughly 20% of all donations

are actually targeted to specific families on the island.

Carlin calls the experience of creating the network and distribution system to provide for the people of Puerto Rico as “one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.” Cardona says it “feels amazing to be able” to get such a response and put such a network together to help people in need.

If you would like to donate or learn about this endeavor, which will continue for the next six months to a year, email Carlin at scottcarlin@yahoo.com.

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SMALL BUSINESSPERSONS OF THE YEAR

Your NewsMag

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce held its annual Small Business Person of the Year Award at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. This year’s distinguished local community winners are:

BELLMORE

Dan Sabia Dan Sabia is the founder and CEO of Long Island’s original solar energy company, Built Well Solar. The company is among the “Solar 500”, ranked as a “Top 500 Solar Contractors in the U.S.” five years in a row, and “Best of Long Island” winner.

A longstanding member of the Bellmore chamber, Dan’s roots run deep in

Dan Sabia

the community. Raised in North Bellmore, he graduated from Calhoun High School. His late father was a founder and Fire Commissioner of the North Bellmore Fire Department and his late mother’s family was among the first settlers of East Meadow.

Dan served for 25 years as facilities director for Carle Place School District, prior to which he served as assistant to the director of physical plant for Nassau Community College. A retired Major in the Army National Guard, he was facilities engineer with the Army Corps of Engineers and commander of the 204th Engineers at Camp Smith, and a 9/11 first responder, called back for his expertise in chemical weapons. He received his B.S. in architecture/ occupational education from New York Institute of Technology, and holds industry certifications in solar energy.

Dan resides in North Bellmore with his wife and business partner Nancy Hiler-Sabia, and is a proud parent to Jessica (Sabia) Kane, Amanda Sabia, T.J. and Neil Hiler.

Julie Puglin-Folchetti and John Malandro

MERRICK

Julie Puglin-Folchetti and John Malandro Partners Julie Pulgin-Folchetti and John Malandro parlayed a distinctive idea of marrying entertainment with gourmet frozen treats into a food truck enterprise called Kona Ice of Long Island that delivers the goods to everybody everywhere in the neighborhood.

In delivering the tropical goodies to hundreds in the community, its food truck also doubles down on philanthropic ideals to deliver needed donations to local school groups, teams and commu-

2017 | Vol.5 №1

nity organizations with every lick and every bite its patrons and revelers take in.

“Julie and John share our commitment to giving back,” said Tony Lamb, founder and president of the mobile franchise. “They want to have a positive influence on the people in their community, whether it’s new text books, sports uniforms or, simply, a smile.”

Many people know when a Kona Ice truck is in the area by the tropical calypso music that fills the air at local events and group gatherings. Patrons partake of cups of freshly shaved ice while helping themselves to any of the 10 tastes on the truck’s interactive dispensing system. Individuals select from one or more of the flavors to pour over their fluffy snow or the additional 20-plus flavors and 500 different combinations available.

“For a couple dollars you can experience the excitement of the truck, flavor your own shaved ice, donate to an organization you care about, and kick back for a few minutes enjoying the sounds of the tropics,” said Malandro.

Kona Ice stops include fairs, festivals, corporate events, neighborhood socials, church events and birthday parties.

Julie and John’s truck also maintains regular weekday and weekend routes.

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FULLY AWAKE

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS SPREAD TO HURRICANE RELIEF

Winthrop Avenue School’s Random Acts of Kindness Pack club in the Bellmore School District hosted an “Anything But Food” collection for the victims of 2017 hurricane season. The sixth-grade students collected diapers, paper towels, cleaners, first aid kits and more for the Nassau County Police Hispanic Society, who spearheaded the community effort, through the Nassau County Police Department’s Seventh Precinct.

RAK Pack adviser Christine Davison noted that the students worked hard to spread the news about the collection around the school and community. Their efforts also aligned with the district’s core value of caring for others who are need. Random Acts of Kindness Pack club adviser Christine Davison, left, is pictured with sixth-grade members who hosted an “Anything But Food” hurricane relief drive.

Open 7 days | Extended Hours Walk-ins Welcome

Courtney Lange, a senior at Calhoun High School's Advanced Science Research program, was invited to present at the 2017 NYU Health Disparities Symposium, held last month at New York University.

Lange was the only high school student invited. She assisted with the construction of the poster board and she presented her summer research titled “Designing an online intervention to promote awareness about obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among blacks: The Tailored Approach to Sleep Health Education (TASHE) study.”

Lange’s presentation received the Top Student Paper Award and her research is currently being submitted for publication.

The symposium program included a series of short, engaging talks on current health disparities research and programs.

A FUTURE IN FARMING?

Members of the Grand Avenue Middle School Yorker Club recently embarked on their annual field trip to Wickham’s Farm in Cutchogue. Students picked apples and pumpkins after touring the apple cider press and green houses. They learned about the history of one of the oldest farms on the island. “The Wickham family farm has been part of the Long Island landscape since the 1600s,” said social studies teacher and club adviser Dominik Bargiel. “This Colonial-era farm provides the students a unique perspective of the culture, landscape and agriculture of the east end of Long Island.”

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

Jeff Gold For Legislator – 19th L.D. Jeff Gold, a 25 year Resident of Bellmore, is an attorney in private practice with an office on Bellmore Ave. Since moving to Bellmore, His Firm has Defeated White Castle’s application for a 24 hour restaurant; Stopped the Strip Club from opening in Wantagh; Forced a leaking gas station to compensate its aggrieved neighbors; and forced a Brick Oven Pizzeria to Stop Polluting It’s Merrick Neighborhood. Jeff is a Former Member of the Nassau County Board of Assessors and Civil Service Commission. He has lectured more than 80 Times on How to Grieve your Taxes, and Adminsters the nearly 11,000 Member Facebook Group – Nassau Grieve Your Tax Assessment Free, and as a consequence, he has saved local residents Millions of Dollars. Jeff has had the privilege of watching the 200 boys and girls he coached, grow up into fine young men and woman. Jeff is a Founding Member of the Bellmore Community Clean Up Group.

Jeff Will Fix The Broken Assessment System, End the Corruption Tax, and Revitalize the Civics. He will ensure that Merrick Road is Repaved, and will open a District Office, with part of the $36,000 annual raise that the current Legislator voted for.

On November 7 – VOTE GOLD

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Over 1000 residents paraded in ideal temperatures for the annual Bellmore Halloween Parade - with some outstanding new costumes!

photos by J. Bromberg and D. Finlay

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IN TRIBUTE

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2017 | Vol.5 â„–1

Bellmore's legendary bike gatherings sponsored by Tina Dupuis of Salon T to raise funds for charity have now become a gathering in honor of her spirit and the love she possessed and shared with everyone. Welcome to the First Annual Tina's Run!

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Veterans Day Events THE BELLMORES

NEW STREET DEDICATION: Town of Hempstead officials joined with the family, friends and colleagues of a fallen New York City firefighter in unveiling “Lt. Steven Sorger Avenue” last month. Lt. Sorger died from an illness related to his service at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center.

The commemorative sign dedicating Waltoffer Avenue, a Hempstead town roadway, to the hero was placed at the corner of Waltoffer and Washing-ton Avenues in North Bellmore.

The North Bellmore American Legion Post 1749 and its Ladies Auxiliary will hold its Veterans Day Ceremony at the war monuments at the Newbridge Road School beginning at 11 a.m., on Saturday, November 11. Firefighters, Boy Scouts, school bands and other members of the community are expected to attend the ceremony. The public is also invited to attend.

Meanwhile, American Legion Post 948 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2770 in Bellmore, along with their Ladies Auxiliaries, will hold their annual Veterans Day ceremonies beginning at 11 a.m. at the Bellmore Veterans Memorial Park at the corner of Broadway and Bedford Avenue.

After – or during - the ceremony, there will be an unveiling of a new war memorial dedicated to honor all of those who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and who sacrificed their lives; and to those who served in

the Cold War, to keep the U.S. safe from Soviet aggression. The public is invited to attend.

THE MERRICKS

American Legion Post 1282 from Merrick will hold its annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Merrick Veterans Memorial Park beginning at 10:30 a.m., across from Camp Avenue School, with ceremonies taking place at 11 a.m. The park is also known as the Merrick Kiwanis Field of Honor. The public is invited to attend.

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

Your NewsMag

In & Around …

F 19th Legislative District Held the line on taxes Fought corruption with sweeping reforms including: • Independent Oversight • Mandated Disclosures • Banning Felons From Holding County Office Delivered local projects: • Bellmore-Merrick Roller Hockey Rink • Merrick Avenue Repaving • Wynsum Playground • Bellmore Streetscape From US Congressman Peter King "I am proud to endorse Legislator Steve Rhoads for re-election. Steve Rhoads is honest and hardworking and never stops fighting for his constituents. We need Steve Rhoads to continue representing us in Mineola."

From Former New York State Senator Chuck Fuschillo “Steve Rhoads is an honest, hardworking, effective Legislator who serves our community well and has delivered results on the right priorities; tax relief, fiscal responsibility and strengthening our ethics law. He has earned our trust and deserves our support. Please join me in voting to re-elect Legislator Steve Rhoads”

From Rabbi Charles Klein “The more I’ve come to know Steve Rhoads as a Legislator, the more I have come to understand the good work he does, comes from a heartfelt commitment to improve the lives of the people of Nassau County. Steve responds with great concern and determination to address issues large and small which affect our community. He has our back and has earned my deepest appreciation and respect.

Endorsed by: Civil Service Employees Association Court Officers' Benevolent Association of Nassau County Detectives' Association Incorporated, Police Department, County of Nassau Grand Council of United Emerald Societies Long Island Federation of Labor - AFL-CIO Nassau County Police Benevolent Association Nassau County Sheriff's Correction Officers Benevolent Association Superior Officers Association, County of Nassau, NY Inc.

Vote Tuesday November 7th Paid for by "Friends of Steve Rhoads"

IDDLER ON THE ROOF: The Showplace at the Bellmore Movies will present ”Fiddler on the Roof” on Sunday, November 5, at 2 p.m., presented by Plaza Theatrical Productions. Tickets are $28, and $20 for seniors. Set in the little village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. The cast features Richard Schindler as Tevye with Sabrina Taub Selvin as his wife Golde.

“Fiddler On the Roof” is directed by Chris Dufrenoy, with musical direction by Alan Kingsley and choreography by Kim Dufrenoy … SPECIAL NEEDS CONFERENCE: The Bellmore-Merrick SEPTA Resources & Recreation Services Fair will host workshops and vendors on Tuesday, November 28, from 6-9 p.m. at the Calhoun High School to assist students with special needs and their families. Workshops will Include SSI and Medicaid-ACCES-VR-OPWDD; Children and Adult Services - The ABC’s of how to access services for students ages 0 to adult; employment support; special needs trust and guardianship; self –direction; and service coordination. There will be over 50 vendors, student workshops and much more. New to the program this year will be a recreation, leisure and socialization opportunities fair. For complete information contact

Cheryl Gitlitz, LCSW at 992-1349 or email to bellmoremerricksepta@gmail.com ...

WILLY WONKA: Coming to The Showplace at the Bellmore Movies after “Fiddler on the Roof” is “Willy Wonka,” also presented by Plaza Theatrical Productions. Times are Friday, November 10, and Saturdays, November 11 and November 18, at 11 a.m.; and Sundays, November 12 and November 19, at noon. The delicious adventures experienced by Charlie Bucket on his visit to Willy Wonka's mysterious chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl's fantastical tale. The production features the enchanting songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder. Tickets are $12.

Tickets for both productions are available by calling 599-6870 or visiting www.plazatheatrical.com … MEMOIR WRITING WORKSHOP: A memoir writing workshop is in full swing at the Bellmore Memorial Library until the end the year. Mark your calendars for Tuesdays, November 7 and 21, and again on Tuesdays, December 5 and the 19, to learn how to get started in writing stories, memories and musings.

The workshop starts at 10:30 a.m., and is taught by Florence Gatto and Beverly E. Kotch of the Long Island Writers Guild of Merrick … BROTHERHOOD CONCERT: The Brotherhood Council of Merrick, in cooperation with the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, will hold its annual Thanksgiving Festival of Music at Calhoun High School on Sunday, November 19. Thought of as the music festival that celebrates the “unique diversities of our communities,” the popular Thanksgiving program will begin at 2 p.m. in the Calhoun auditorium.

Dean J. Paolillo, of North Merrick Troop 351, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. He raised well over $2000 hosting a pasta dinner fundraiser at St. John's Lutheran Church in Merrick.

He then was able to buy the supplies necessary for two projects, an 8' rolling storage bin with shelves & locking doors and 21 moveable bike racks, for The Interfaith Nutrition Network of Hempstead with the remaining proceeds handed over to The INN. Dean has been in scouts since he was six years old.

Vol.5 №1 | 2017

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13th LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

Eileen Napolitano, Democratic candidate , and Tom McKevitt, New York State Assemblyman for the 14th AD and Republican, are vying for the 13th Legislative District being vacated by Norman Gonsalves. The 13th LD covers most of North Bellmore and North Merrick:

TOM MCKEVITT Are third parties, such as NICE (transportation), Suez (water treatments) and Eileen Napolitano, Tom McKevitt, others, such as the one overseeing the Democrat Republican Nassau County Corrections, helping stabilize the county budget? trative overhead. The county’s bond rating was Utilizing private providers can in some instancupgraded earlier this year as a reflection of the county improving its budgetary situation. es provide a service for a lower cost. NICE is providing bus service to Nassau residents for a lesser cost than when the MTA conducted the busing There is also a call from both Democrats in operations. However, Armor Correctional Health the county Legislature and Republican councilServices was apparently not able to adequately persons at the Town of Hempstead to eliminate provide care at the Nassau County Correctional government spending of political advertiseFacility, and now the service will be provided by ments for the three months before an election, the Nassau University Medical Center. The Legison a premise that tax dollars are promoting canlature must decide on a case-by-case basis wheth- didates’ records many taxpaying residents er operations are best carried out by a private enti- would not vote for.

In the New York State Assembly, we have a longty or a public one. And, when a party cannot sustain its operations, government must decide standing policy where mass mailers are prohibited whether to allow that party to continue operations for two months before an election. I will advocate under a modified contract, or find a new operator. for a similar policy for the Nassau County Legislature.

There appears to be bi-partisan support – with Democratic legislators in the county and What is the difference between a fee and a Republican councilpersons at the town levels – tax? for an impartial Inspector General to oversee A fee is a cost that is assessed on those who utigovernment contracts. Is it a move whose time lize a certain service. A tax is a broad imposition has come? on all taxpayers whether certain services are used I am in favor of further oversight and scrutiny of or not. There has been an increase in the types of contracts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being fees as well as the amount of these fees over the spent in an efficient manner. There must be compast several years. We need to evaluate the fairplete transparency in who is advocating for certain ness of these fees [whether they are disproportioncontracts, and considerable scrutiny when there is ate to some] and whether other sources of revenue an attempt to award an “unsolicited” vendor. should be utilized to pay for county services.

How can the property assessment system be fixed – or adjusted?

It is time for there to be a reassessment of all properties in Nassau County. It is incumbent on the Legislature to have strict oversight of this process so that the reassessment is conducted as accurately as possible. There should also be a reassessment every three years to ensure that the assessment system keeps pace with fluctuating property values, as well as preserve the taxpayer’s right to grieve the assessment if he or she believes it is incorrect.

With fewer government employees in county government, what efficiencies have been increased to respond to the same – if not more demands from residents?

Nassau County reduced 10 departments down to four to provide services while reducing adminis-

serving in the New York State Assembly for twelve (12) years where I voted for the lowest middle class tax rate in 58 years and brought record amount of school aid to the district, as well as supported infrastructure projects to support the region. I have a history of working with both sides of the political aisle to bring consensus and formulate policies for the good of the people we represent.

EILEEN NAPOLITANO What is the current state of Nassau County?

The current state of Nassau is frightening! We have become the county of corruption and an embarrassment. We have our elected officials being taken away in handcuffs; continue to see our finances mismanaged and have a broken assessment system. We continue to see an increase in taxes disguised as “fees” and continue to operate under the control of NIFA because the current administration simply cannot curtail the wasteful spending associated with patronage jobs and the pay-to-play culture we have been forced to live with. Simply put, our residents have lost faith; they no longer trust those they have elected.

Have public/private partnerships been beneficial?

Utilizing third-party options to balance the budget simply has not worked. NICE bus continues to operate in the red, has cut essential bus routes and hiked fares. We have seen the complete incompetence of Armor, which is costing the county millions in lawsuits. In Nassau County we have American Water that continues to burden our residents with very high water bills. These municipalities currently are designed to operate “for profit.” Once these municipalities are farmed out to third-party entities, we lose control; therefore we lose any possibility of oversight and protecting the taxpayers. Nassau must be proactive in addressing these concerns. Whether we ultimately take back NICE, or implement measurers to alleviate the financial burden to American Water customers, or have more input and oversight is yet to be determined.

What will be Norma Gonsalves’ legacy as Presiding Officer of the Nassau County Legislature?

Norma Gonsalves has dedicated a lifetime to helping improve her community and the people within it. Upon the sudden death of Peter Schmitt she quickly brought continuity to the operation of the Legislature, with passage of the budget only weeks away. She was responsible for making tough decisions in an effort to provide services in an efficient manner and bring about reforms to enhance transparency.

Has time come for an Inspector General?

Yes, the time for implementing an independent Inspector General would appear to have come!

This position is simply an added layer of protection for the taxpayer.

Why do you see yourself as best suited to be a legislator in the Nassau County Legislature?

I am a lifelong resident of the community who has long been involved in community affairs and organizations. I am a homeowner and a father who seeks to make Nassau County a great place to live, work and raise a family. I have a record of

Can the tax assessment system be fixed?

My position as a taxpayer is that we should not have the added burden of then grieving taxes after we’ve paid them. It is the government’s job to get it right. We need to have the assessment department headed by a qualified assessor, have the department operate with qualified employees and

2017 | Vol.5 №1

have assessments done more frequently to avoid “catching up.”

Can county employees continue to provide the same services, with fewer of them?

We have seen a drastic cut in personnel within many departments, including the 911 department.

Simply stated, this cannot be an option while we deal with the continued rise in heroin and opioid calls. Certainly department sharing of resources and materials is an option in reducing costs. The implementing of technology over a course of time will allow us to be efficient and proactive in streamlining departments and yet not creating another problem with decreasing the workforce.

Is scrutiny of officials mailing their achievements just before an election overblown?

The politically motivated self-serving mailers cost the taxpayers! In addition, I recently spoke with a mail carrier that advised me that because most don’t use current mailing addresses, most mailers go in the garbage before they even leave the post office. While the county is on schedule to operate in millions of dollars in deficit, we simply cannot condone these mailers any longer. I believe there must be better policy and enforcement to timing and substance of mailings all year.

What is the difference between a tax and a fee?

A “fee” by any other name is a tax. Fees are being utilized as a “band aide” to fill a gap in the deficit, and have placed a disproportioned financial burden on the few to balance the county’s budget, rather than all its residents paying lower taxes to balance the budget . In addition, if a resident is found “not guilty” of the infraction the fee withstands. A tax increase is not necessary to offset the deficit. Smart spending, a focus on increase in revenue, better vetting of county contracts and eliminating patronage jobs are all initiatives that need to be addressed!

What will be Norma Gonsalves’ legacy in the Legislature?

Norma Gonsalves has been a Legislator for almost 20 years. She has been Presiding Officer for five years. Although I believe her introduction into politics stemmed from the desire to do good, represent her community and be a voice, I also believe that message got lost along the way. Mrs. Gonsalves has become part of a machine whose only agenda is to maintain control at any expense, including the taxpayer. We have seen Mrs. Gonsalves hold herself above the law when it came to reporting her campaign finances. Yet, she has been quoted as saying “They will have to deal with it” regarding implementing the red light camera program. Ultimately, and unfortunately, I believe her legacy will be she simply stayed too long, she was the rubber stamp the Republican majority needed to pass legislation.

Vol.5 №1 | 2017

KENNEDY HIGH SCHOOL: Homecoming Queen Chloe Demetriades and King Matthew Baker.

HOMECOMINGS

CALHOUN HIGH SCHOOL: Lauren Ameruoso and Gabe Wagner were crowned homecoming Queen and King.

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MEPHAM HIGH SCHOOL: The team’s tight end James Hatcliffe and Pirette Jordana Bove were crowned homecoming King and Queen.

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RACE FOR COUNTY EXECUTIVE

2017 | Vol.5 №1

With County Executive Edward Mangano not running for a third term, two veteran public officials are asking for your trust to shape how the county operates in the future

DECISION '17 THE STATE OF THE COUNTY

Laura Curran, Nassau County Legislator, 5th LD, Democrat: Nassau County government has become an embarrassment. This pervasive culture of corruption has squandered millions of dollars on bloated contracts for the connected and patronage jobs for friends and families of the elected. The government only serves the powerful few, so there is a genuine lack of trust in government, and it’s no wonder when we see career politicians being dragged out in handcuffs on corruption charges. This culture has hamstrung the county’s ability to do real economic development.

Jack Martins, Republican: The county remains a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. And as a former Mayor of Mineola, New York State Senator and small business owner, some of my priorities once elected will include restoring the public trust in government, getting our fiscal house in order by fixing the broken tax assessment system and holding the line on taxes and creating an economic renaissance to provide a brighter future for the middle class and to keep young people here.

PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS

Curran: Public-private partnerships can serve the public very well when the companies provide efficient services that save taxpayers money. However, the county has to draft effective contracts and exercise proper oversight over these partnerships to ensure the deals are being upheld as negotiated. One example of where this clearly didn’t happen is the contract the county had with Armor, which provided health care at the county Jail. Despite receiving a $60 million contract, Armor did not hold up its end of the bargain, and the result was wasted taxpayer dollars and services not delivered as promised. As the state Attorney General charged, Armor basically took taxpayers’ money and didn’t deliver what we paid for.

Martins: Public/private partnerships can be useful, as long as there is an understanding that there is a benefit to the taxpayer without a sacrifice of services that they’re receiving. It does not work on critical issues that the county is to provide. You do not privatize ambulance service; you do not privatize public safety; you do not privatize a critical service that the coun-

ty provides; you do not privatize healthcare for inmates. I’d like to see bus service become more of a critical service for the county, but we have to monitor bus service to ensure that people are getting adequate service.

And that it's not constantly being restrained for the benefit of the balance of the budget.

TAX ASSESSMENT REFORM

curement officer to review the county procurement process. Whether it's an Inspector General or, as I prefer, the Commissioner of Investigations that already exists under the county charter, there has to be the ability to work independently to review permits, and to work with the Board of Ethics to ensure that there are no conflicts between the current county procurement policies and elected officials and policy makers.

Curran: I do not believe we should Laura Curran, Democrat Jack Martins, Republican try to transfer the assessment obligation to the towns. The towns already refused to friends and families of the elected. All of this QUALIFICATIONS has led to a deep distrust in government. To accept that burden when it was tried in 2013 Curran: Before joining county government eliminate potential for corruption, I will purby the Mangano administration and, in any I was president of a local school board with a event, such a change would spread the current sue term limits for elected county positions; $120 million budget. And, for four years on problems among multiple jurisdictions withthe County Legislature I’ve studied governrequire county officials to disclose relatives who do business with the county; modernize out resulting in savings for taxpayers. Accurate ment operations and seen firsthand the dysthe list of employees who file financial discloand fair assessing is a fundamental obligation function, corruption and mismanagement in of government and means appointing a qualiour government. And I’ve got a plan to fix it. sures and require them from parties to county During this campaign I have laid out concrete contracts; and create an independent Inspecfied and credentialed assessor, as the law replans to stop corruption before it happens, inquires; ensuring that the assessment departtor General. Appointments will be based on merit, not political connections or relationment has the appropriate amount and mix of cluding serious contracting reforms, shining a employees to do the job; and using the most light on our county budgeting process, and ships, and appointees will be barred from up-to-date software to assist them. We also ensuring only the best and brightest are hired holding leadership positions in any political need to review assessments at least every three party or club. To ensure contracts are awarded for government work. These will be the first isyears to keep pace with natural changes in val- based only on merit, and eliminate even the sues I tackle, and in doing so, we will be able perception of favoritism, we will limit the abili- to free ourselves to focus on real economic deue. Inaccurate assessments result in unfair tax burdens, and the inequities are increased by ty of county vendors and bidders to contribute velopment. I moved to Nassau County with the current grievance system, which shifts a to county officials; make all procurement inmy husband almost 20 years ago to the day. higher tax burden onto those who don’t chalWe came here for the Long Island dream — formation available online; publicize all unsogood schools and beautiful beaches and lenge their assessments. Improved initial aslicited proposals; identify county employees parks. We knew we’d pay higher taxes but it involved in procurement; and mandate full sessments should result in fewer grievances, disclosure of vendor connections to county of- was a deal we were willing to make. But peoand those that are filed need to be resolved more quickly and accurately. ficials. ple aren’t willing to make that deal anymore Martins: A fair assessment system is critical Martins: We must restore the public trust in because they don’t feel like they’re getting what they pay for. And I’m running to change to restoring public trust in government. There government. While I was a state Senator I votthat. are more challenges to the Nassau County ased to enact new laws to put corrupt elected ofsessment system than anywhere else in the ficials in jail and to ensure they don’t receive Martins: And as a former Mayor of Minestate, which highlights the fact that we are dotheir taxpayer-funded pension. We must also ola, New York State Senator and small busigive resources to the Ethics Board and our ing it poorly. I would go with best practice, ness owner, I have the experience, ability Commissioner of Investigations so that they which is transferring the property tax assessand ideas to make the changes Nassau can monitor and enforce the county’s ethic’s County needs to get back on the right track. ments to the towns. We would work with the code. Some details of my proposed new code As Mayor of Mineola, I developed balanced, towns so there is a seamless transfer of instituof ethics include: enhanced vetting to prevent fiscally responsible budgets and debt mantional knowledge and personnel so they can nepotism and improper instances of simultaproperly maintain a smaller and more management plans that substantially reduced ageable assessment system. I did this in Mineneous employment with multiple governmen- Mineola’s debt and returned the village to a sound financial footing. I also led the effort ola when I was Mayor, and I am confident this tal entities or county contractors; rigorous reto create Mineola’s award-winning master can be accomplished without a significant inview of all county contracts and vendors to redevelopment plan that expanded the vilprevent conflicts of interest; more expansive crease in expenses. And done well, we can financial disclosure requirements for elected save $80-$100 million dollars each year, which lage’s economic base through smart growth officials and policymakers; creation of a new is a substantial savings to the budget and taxprinciples. As a state Senator, I enacted an electronic filing system to facilitate the enhistoric series of balanced, on-time state payers. forcement of these requirements; and subject- budgets while cutting state taxes on midCORRUPTION ing elected officials and county employees to dle-class families to the lowest level in 50 enhanced disclosure requirements. The ethics years, enacting the state property tax cap Curran: With machine politics and career board must have the staff, independence and and delivering record state funding for Naspoliticians we’ve seen bloated contracts given accountability to do its job. There is now a pro- sau County schools. away to the connected, and patronage jobs for

Vol.5 №1 | 2017

Your NewsMag

23

On the Ballot: the New York State Constitutional Convention A constitutional convention is a meeting of elected delegates who propose amendments to or rewrite the state constitution. Proposals developed at a convention are put on a ballot for voter consideration. New Yorkers voted on 12 constitutional convention questions during the 239 years between 1777 and 2016. In 2017—which is 240 years after the first constitution was ratified—citizens of the state are voting on the question for the 13th time.

Of the 12 questions asked before 2017, seven resulted in constitutional conventions being held and four led to new state constitutions. Prior to 1900, four of five questions were approved. Between 1900 and 1999, three of seven questions were approved, representing a lower rate of approval compared to the previous century.

Section 2 of Article XIX of the New York Constitution provides for the automatic referral of a constitutional convention question every 20 years, includ-

ing in 2017. The ballot question is the first step in the process of calling a constitutional convention in New York. If a majority of voters cast their ballots in favor of holding a convention on November 7, voters would elect 204 convention delegates on November 6, 2018. Fifteen of the delegates would be elected statewide. Three would be elected from each of the state's 63 senate districts, totaling 189.

The constitutional convention would convene on April 2, 2019, in Albany.

Delegates would be allowed to draft a new constitution or amendments to the existing constitution. Referring a constitution or amendment to the ballot would require a simple majority vote of the delegates. Citizens would vote on the convention-proposed changes to the constitution on November 5, 2019.

An approved constitution or approved amendments would take effect on January 1, 2020.

Excerpted from Ballotpedia.org

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2017 | Vol.5 №1

Your NewsMag

DO YOU SUFFER FROM A PAINFUL BUNION?

BY Dr. Leon Livingston, Dr. Douglas Livingston and their Associates at Livingston Foot Care Specialists.

Now there’s a new technologically advanced surgical procedure that will allow you to walk immediately after the procedure, with minimal down time, no crutches, no cast and early return to work. The surgeons at Livingston Foot Care Specialists have extensive training and experience in this technologically advanced procedure. A bunion is a poorly aligned big toe joint. The big toe may point toward the second toe causing a bump on the outside edge of the toe. This poorly aligned joint will lead to many complications including arthritis including inflammatory or degenerative forms, causing the protective cartilage that covers your big toe joint to deteriorate. This is why it is so important to treat your bunion deformity.

Bunions are often caused by an inherited foot type, foot injuries, and certain deformities and can be exacerbated by high heels or ill-fitting shoes. This may lead to swelling, redness, or soreness around the big toe joint, thickening of the skin at the base of the big toe, corns or calluses, pain, and restricted movement of the big toe.

By pushing the big toe inward, a bunion can squeeze your other toes into abnormal positions.

Over time, this crowding can lead to contractures of the other toes known as hammertoes.

A bunion may be treated conservatively with such modalities as utilizing wider shoes with a higher toe box, paddings, strappings, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, custom molded foot orthotics, and injection therapy, which can help alleviate the symptoms associated with a bunion.

If these conservative modalities fail to resolve the symptoms then surgical management is an option and the new technology available today can fix this condition with minimal down time and early return to work.

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