Editorial: A Fond Farewell to Ron Friedman!

With a new superintendent of schools (Tom Dolan) just sworn in for the Great Neck Public Schools, it is truly time to say “goodbye” to our retiring superintendent, Ron Friedman. Ron, who has guided our marvelous school district for the last five years, has done a wonderful job and will surely be missed by all.

From the Desk of Congressman Gary Ackerman: June 26, 2009

Ackerman Statement on Iran Resolution

U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-NY), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia, issued the following statement on the resolution approved by the House that supports “all Iranians who embrace the values of freedom, human rights, civil liberties and the rule of law.” The measure, which passed 405 to 1, also “condemns the ongoing violence against demonstrators, by the Government of Iran and pro-government militias, as well as the ongoing government suppression of independent electronic communication through interference with the Internet and cellphones.” It also “affirms the universality of individual rights and the importance of democratic and fair elections.”

Congratulations to Our Graduates!

The end of June, the time when all of our graduate students and college students have graduated, our high school seniors are just about to graduate, and all of our younger students have enjoyed their ‘‘moving up’’ days too. It is a time to celebrate, to look back and to look ahead.

Be it a move to a new school or an additional degree or the prospect of an exciting job, all of our graduates have much reason to look forward. For sure, the future looks bright for these eager young people!

The editors and staff of the Great Neck Record would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our graduates of the Class of 2009 and to wish them all a future filled with health, happiness, and prosperity.

 

Assemblywoman Schimel Supports Local Control

Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel was a lonely no vote on the floor of the Assembly on the issue of Consolidation and Dissolution of local governments: villages, towns, special districts and fire districts.

Assemblywoman Schimel read the following statement on the floor of the Assembly Chamber before casting her vote:

“My goal as town clerk and now as a state representative is to empower people to love government and recognize all of the services and opportunities it affords to help all people, families and neighbors.

Editorial: Happy Father’s Day!

Are you celebrating on Sunday? Is this coming Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day, a special day for you? If you are one of Great Neck’s many devoted, loving dads or granddads, we wish you a fun day, with lots of love and lots of family parties!

Comptroller’s Report - June 5, 2009

Appointment to Council on State Health Insurance Will Make Nassau’s Voice Heard

Healthcare issues have always been at the forefront of my policy initiatives, both as County Comptroller and during the 35 years spent in the healthcare field. Throughout my two terms, I have been a squeaky wheel when it comes to finding ways to trim the escalating costs of Nassau County’s health benefits. Several years ago I persuaded the County Legislature to eliminate the practice of offering two family health benefit policies to one family, to lengthen the number of years of employment required to vest lifetime retiree health benefits and to increase the health benefit buy back amount to encourage employees with other coverage options to drop County health benefits.

Editorial: Even Apple Pie Can Be Hard to Swallow

It is not easy to stand up against a political avalanche. Both of our state legislative representatives, Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel and Senator Craig Johnson, listened to their constituents, studied the fine print of legislation touted as a panacea to lower property taxes and took courageous “No” votes in spite of tremendous political pressure from the Democratic leadership. From the drumbeat of the rhetoric surrounding the legislation, it was like voting against apple pie and motherhood.  We applaud the wisdom and strength of character it took to take such a stand.

Editorial: Making Mischief in Albany - That Voodoo That They Do So Well

Many years ago, when we had young children and lived in a village that had an unsafe, uninviting playground, we got involved in lobbying to improve it. We, the parents, got ourselves educated about fun-filled, yet safe, play equipment, networked with other parents and eventually convinced the mayor and trustees of the village that it was high time to invest in a play area that would enhance the quality of life in the village. That was when we fell in love with the reality of local government, close to home and responsive to the people. That was when we learned that a few people can make a difference. It was a thrill!

Statement from Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi

Property taxes continue to be the number one problem on Long Island and across New York State, where our residents pay 78 percent above the national average. As I continue my fight against property taxes, I was encouraged by this morning’s Leaders’ Meeting where property taxes were the topic.

Even as voters across the state vote on school budgets today, most of which came in at well below the 4 percent cap our state commission had proposed, we are reminded that our entire state will face a new crisis once federal stimulus funding runs out and escalated pension bills come in. We need our State Legislature to take action immediately on the host of recommendations discussed today. As always, I will continue my fight on behalf of every single overburdened property taxpayer. They deserve no less.

Editorial: Come and Enjoy the Taste of Great Neck!

Once again the Great Neck community will be treated to a wonderful “Taste of Great Neck.” This much anticipated event is this coming Monday evening, June 1, 6 to 8 p.m., at Melville Hall, the Officer’s Club at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point.

The “taste” is always an event not to be missed, complete with an amazing sample of foods from an impressive list of local restaurants and food shops. And the spectacular waterfront view of the Manhattan skyline is always a treat at Melville Hall.