Paterson NY State Budget to Hit Hard



Gov. David Paterson's new budget will be felt by New Yorkers across the board. Despite efforts to stabilize aid to the state's school district by incorporating Federal Stimulus money, many districts will still face tax increases and probable layoffs. Riverhead is looking at a 3% or more increase and possible double digit layoffs.

The STAR rebate checks are likely to disappear along with other the tough new measures.



The State's bottle deposit law will now include bottled water in addition to carbonated liquids but not juice drinks.


YMCA Abandons Aquebogue Building Plan.

The Suffolk County YMCA has finally given up on planning to build a facility on a parcel in Aquebogue owned by the Riverhead School District. A citizens group fought long and hard to prevent the plan taking the position that the residents wanted the parcel to remain agricultural.


The YMCA has now entered into negotiations to build a similar facility on a 7.2 acre parcel adjacent to Stotzky Park in Riverhead.



Romaine, Town Officials, School Supe Oppose Trailer

Members of the Town Board, County Legislature and School officials have joined together to oppose the placement of trailers on the County Prison facility to house sex offenders. The Town has filed suit in County Court to overturn the County position.


Cardinale and "Gio" Want 4 Year Terms

Riverhead Supervisor Cardinale and Highway Superintendent Woodson are hoping to have a referendum placed on the November ballot which would change the terms of office for their respective positions to 4 years.


Farmers, Tim Bishop Worry About Illegals
Congressman Tim Bishop and East Farmers have been expressing concern about the recent crackdown on illegal immigrants by ICE. Afraid that the raids will result in a shortage of farm labor for the East End farms. How about this for a novel approach? Follow the law, send home the illegals and replace them with temporary, certified seasonal workers or Americans.

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Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. - Benjamin Franklin