From Long Island Wins: November 16, 2011

One Set of Facts, One Unavoidable Conclusion

In any debate, it’s said, each party is entitled to its own opinion. But not its own set of facts.

That’s why it’s so exciting that there’s been yet another important step in establishing a single set of facts about the contributions of immigrants to Long Island.

From the desk of The Nassau County Executive: November 9, 2011

The 2012 Budget

On Sunday, October 30th, the Nassau County Legislature approved my budget for 2012 that includes the tough medicine needed to help our County to recover from decades of poor fiscal policies. Most importantly, the budget represents an opportunity to work cooperatively to achieve success for our residents. The budget, developed in consultation with NIFA, sets forth a comprehensive plan that makes Nassau County fiscally stronger each year over the next four years.

Despite the fact that the Democrat Minority Conference failed to support the budget, for a second consecutive year, I have been able to provide a budget that addresses Nassau’s issues without raising property taxes and I implore them to join me in working together to successfully implement the enacted solutions.

Health Department Urges Residents to Get Seasonal Flu Vaccinations

Nassau County Acting Commissioner for Health Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein, along with Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, are urging Nassau County residents to obtain a seasonal flu vaccination. Peak flu season is late winter in our region, but a flu shot now will help protect residents throughout the cold and flu season.

“All families should take an active role with their own preparation and prevention of the flu. It’s a responsibility we all share,” said Mangano. “The flu is a very serious disease and our best defense against it is getting vaccinated.”

Parenthood Plus: October 26, 2011

Connections Count

There are times that I feel as if I am being buried alive, one tablespoon of tabloid dirt at a time. It would be redundant to name the culprits. Besides, they all blur together in blaring headlines accompanied by a steady beat of sneering and self-righteous talking heads.

I wonder what young people think of the endless parade of public figures —government officials, businessmen, entertainers and professional athletes—crashing and burning before their eyes. Then again, maybe they have other things on their minds.

October 31 Deadline for FEMA Assistance For Hurricane Irene Damage

New York State and federal officials remind those who were affected by Hurricane Irene that October 31 is the deadline to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for possible federal disaster assistance from Hurricane Irene damages.

Nassau County Comptroller’s Report: October 19, 2011

Comptroller’s remarks on the proposed Nassau county 2012 budget

NIFA, the Administration and the Legislature Must Work Together

The proposed 2012 budget submitted by the county executive protects our hard pressed taxpayers since it contains no property tax increase. This budget has severe cuts across the board and includes demands for significant labor concessions. NIFA’s cooperation is necessary to help the county get through this lingering national recession and our county’s fiscal crisis.

From the LI Water Conference: October 19, 2011

Water-efficient home plumbing products conserve water and cut costs

Nobody likes to spend excess money, and one way to alleviate extra spending is to conserve water in the home. By closely monitoring the amount of water one uses, and implementing easy and simple changes in the home it becomes possible to lower water bills.

Nassau County Department of Health Continues Rabies Baiting Program

Raccoon Rabies Vaccine to Be Distributed by Truck

Continuing the effort to eradicate raccoon rabies in Nassau County, Nassau County Department of Health and Cornell University announced that they will again distribute raccoon rabies vaccine to protect residents from rabies. Rabies vaccine “baits” will be distributed in the northwestern portion of the county in response to the most recent case of rabies reported in Queens.

The rabies bait, which is attractive to raccoons and includes a vaccine packet, will be distributed in raccoon habitats which include woods, bushes, streambeds, sewers and other areas. There is a label that clearly identifies the bait packet that reads: “Rabies Vaccine Live Vaccinia Vector. Do Not Disturb, Merial, Inc Us Vet Lic. No. 298 1-877-722-6725.” Raccoons are attracted by the scent of the bait and are immunized when they eat the contents of the vaccine packet.

Residents Invited to Pro Bono Legal Fair

Free Assistance, Information and Referral at Event Held on October 27

As part of its ongoing tradition of pro bono and community legal assistance, the Nassau County Bar Association along with Nassau/Suffolk Law Services is inviting all Nassau County residents to a free legal Pro Bono Fair offering free assistance, information and referrals, to be held on Thursday, October 27, in celebration of national Pro Bono Week. Any Nassau resident is invited to come to the Bar Association’s headquarters at the corner of 15th and West Streets in Mineola, between 3 and 7 p.m. with a question and meet with an attorney one-on-one for legal guidance.

Letter: CSEA Has Nothing Left to Give

Nassau County is heading closer and closer to its demise. Following a national Republican trend, the administration is targeting government workers and their unions as the main reason for the county’s financial collapse. It implies our county is being destroyed by overgenerous labor agreements, and if those aren’t amended, massive layoffs will occur.

But a lack of transparency on the county’s part clearly exists. The administration complains that Nassau has the second highest taxes in the nation, yet if the county got rid of all 6,000 of its Civil Service Employees Association workers, Nassau would still hold that regrettable status. In fact, in a $10,000 property tax bill, only $300 is for the services provided by CSEA members.