The Nassau County Conservative party held its annual fund raiser at the Freeport Yacht Club on Feb. 16. Elected officials, enrolled Conservatives and other suppoters were on hand to witness new Party Chairman Clifford M. Riccio of Wantagh present a plaque to recently retired Chairman John J. (Jack) O'Leary.

O'Leary, who resides in Plainview, was chairman of the Nassau County Conservative Party for more than 28 years, longer than any past party chairman of any party in Nassau County history. He announced his resignation in December 2000 in order to spend more time with his family, as well as to pursue other interests. He retains his position as Commissioner of General Services in the Town of Oyster Bay. In thanking the supporters in attendance at the Freeport Dinner, O'Leary expressed his intent to remain active in the local Party.

In a statement released prior to the event, O'Leary stated that "I am proud of the legacy I leave in the county and I have enjoyed playing a part in the elections of United States Senators James Buckley and Alfonse D'Amato, President Ronald Reagan and Governor George Pataki, as well as scores of other local, state and national officials."

New Party Chairman Cliff Riccio previously served as the executive vice chairman of the Party. He was elevated to the leadership post upon the resignation of the chairman, in accordance with party rules.