Letter: Let The Sun Shine In On SUNY Foundations

You would expect an organization created for public benefit that is largely led by government officials would be obligated to report to the public about its activities. Yet the Research Foundation of the State University of New York (SUNY) and its many campus foundations are not required to do so and apparently feel no such compulsion to share information with the public. Instead, these organizations often cloak their activities in secrecy.

As president of United University Professions – the union representing academic and professional faculty at SUNY’s state-operated campuses – I think it’s time to let the sun shine in. It’s time to require the SUNY Research Foundation and campus foundations to be held accountable and to be more transparent.

From the desk of Senator Charles Fuschillo: April 26, 2012

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) announced that the New York State Senate recently passed legislation he supports to ensure that residents receive their state income tax refunds as quickly as possible.

“Tax refunds belong to taxpayers, not the government. Someone who files on time and is entitled to a refund deserves to have their money returned to them in a timely fashion. That’s even more important in this economy, when so many families are trying to do more with less. Under this legislation, that’s exactly what would happen,” said Senator Fuschillo.

From the desk of Senator Charles Fuschillo: April 19, 2012

With Congress returning to session on April 12 and the New York State Assembly returning to session tomorrow after a two-week recess, New York State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) called on both federal and state lawmakers to make restoring the mass transit tax benefit for commuters a top priority.

“Every day that passes without restoring this benefit is another day of added costs on New York’s overburdened commuters. Taxing people more just to get to work is the last thing we should be doing in this economy. It’s long past time to restore this benefit and Congress should act on it immediately,” said Senator Fuschillo, chairman of the New York State Senate’s Transportation Committee.

From the desk of Senator Charles Fuschillo: April 12, 2012

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. recently announced that the sale of synthetic marijuana has been banned throughout New York State. Known as the “legal alternative” to marijuana, synthetic marijuana was primarily sold in convenience stores, smoke shops and tobacco stores. Since it is easily accessible and relatively affordable, synthetic marijuana is extremely attractive to young people.

“Synthetic marijuana is a dangerous substitute for an illegal drug which can cause severe health problems. It has no business being on store shelves,” Senator Fuschillo said. “Banning the sale of synthetic marijuana will help keep this harmful substance out of the hands of young people.”

Guest Column: The Audacity To Hope

If the multi-colored Skittles were a clever planted prop, I’d have to say the all natural Snapple was a masterful addition. And even if the hooded sweatshirt was pure white and angelic like snow, it would have done very little to mask those eyes; yes, those deep menancing eyes, which were only a shade lighter than his dark intimidating skin. The eyes peering from that oversized hood betrayed any facade of innocence, possibly afforded by youth.

Letter: Schmitt: No Tax Hike on the Agenda

I read your recent article covering Nassau County Executive Edward I. Mangano’s State of the County address with great interest (“Mangano Warns of 13 Percent Tax Jump,” Anton Newspapers, March 22 and 23), but I fear your story missed the point – by a longshot.

The county executive did not threaten a 13 percent property tax increase; in fact, he never even uttered the words. Further, setting the legislative agenda is among my many duties as presiding officer, and I assure you, there will not be a tax increase on the agenda this year, just as there was no tax increase on the agenda in the past two years. Where did you even get your information?

From the desk of Senator Charles Fuschillo: April 4, 2012

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) has announced that legislation he sponsors to save taxpayer dollars through increased prosecution of Medicaid fraud has been passed by the Senate.

The legislation (S594) would allow the state’s Office of Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG) to refer Medicaid fraud cases to local district attorneys for prosecution.

Letter: Sena Thanks Farmingdale Community

I want to express my appreciation to all the village residents who gave me the opportunity to run for mayor. In particular, I would like to thank those who supported my Village Independent Party (VIP) team and me.

I am grateful for having two terrific running mates, Mike Manchin and Susan Miles, who worked so hard during this campaign.

Letter: Manchin Thanks Community

After a long and protracted decision process over the course of many months, I entered a long and arduous campaign with the Village Independent Party (VIP) to seek the trustee position. Many demands were put on family, friends and myself. Most of my life has centered on serving and helping others, so this was a welcomed challenge to be endured. The others on the team, Georgiana Sena and Susan Miles, are two fine people who possess a profound sense of civic responsibility.

Letter: Miles Thanks Village Voters

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family, friends and the Farmingdale community who supported and voted for the Village Independent Party.

It is with great pride to have run with Georgiana Sena and Mike Manchin in this year’s election.