ROCKLAND COUNTY TIMES EXCLUSIVE SCOOP

Mad texter gets stuck in his own Nixonian trap

BY DYLAN SKRILOFF

Suffern mayor and 2013 county executive candidate Dagan LaCorte's campaign hit an early-season bump when he accidentally texted David Fried a scandalous message (actual image)

Last week at a festive gathering of Democratic insiders, Suffern mayor and county executive candidate Dagan LaCorte was schmoozing it up with one of his two primary opponents, former Spring Valley justice David Fried.

When LaCorte finished exchanging niceties with his foe, he made a blunder that won’t soon be forgotten. He sent a text intended for his campaign manager Cristobal Slobodzian to Judge Fried instead.

But this was no ordinary text, you see.

It contained instructions for Slobodzian to spy on Fried and to record their conversation. Slobodzian and Fried had never met, so he intended to use the campaign manager to run a quick “recon” mission and hopefully get Fried to say something politically damaging on tape.

Naturally, when Fried revealed that LaCorte sent him this text–part of which commanded the underling to “spy early” before Orangetown tax receiver candidate Chris Smith blows his cover–it became the talk of Rockland Democratic Party insider circles.

Not too many Democrats have found anything humorous about it. Said fellow county executive candidate Legislator Ilan Schoenberger, “He basically told one of his operatives to secretly record Fried to see if he could say something damaging….I think it’s highly inappropriate to engage in that kind of politics. It’s a kind of dirty politics that I don’t think the people of Rockland will accept. I found the whole thing very disturbing. It was a new low.”

Tax receiver candidate Chris Smith said he was shocked to see his name come up in the text. Smith said, “Well look, when I first saw it I just didn’t understand why I was being outed as someone who was basically being a snitch. I’m neutral in the county executive race. I’m running my own race, I am not getting involved in all this behind the scenes nonsense. It’s unfortunate that people stoop to these sort of behind the scenes conversations. We need to focus, the focus of the county executive should be on fixing the county, not on who is going to rat who out or spying on candidates, trying to get their position. Our county is in a real mess and I want to hear ideas from all candidates. We’re $100 million in debt.”

LaCorte acknowledged to the Rockland County Times that the text was his. For his part, Slobodzian claimed he was unaware of any such text, and the questions from the Rockland County Times were the first he heard of it.

Slobodzian defended LaCorte. He said, “Mayor LaCorte is running a transparent campaign. He is speaking to all the issues facing the county and state. Marriage and desalination are important issues to our voters and we look forward to seeing where our opponents stand on them so the voters can make an informed decision.”

Dagan got LaCaught

When asked by the Rockland County Times about the sometimes controversial topic of gay marriage, Judge Fried did not have a very controversial response, as LaCorte implied he might. He said, “I support legislation approved by governor and legislature last year — people who wish to marry should be able to. I believe in strong families and I believe in children. As judge I was called on to perform marriages since the change in law and I was proud to do so.”

How did Fried react when he received the text? At first he was a bit shocked but then he said disappointment was the mood.

Said Fried, “My reaction was disappointment. My commitment is to run an ethical, issue-based campaign. The main issue is who puts forth the agenda to be county executive, to solve the financial crisis. I don’t believe in the kind of underhanded tactics that LaCorte used.”

He contined, “It wasn’t funny. The truth is anyone of us can make a mistake, of course. The error of Dagan not using his phone properly, is not the issue. The real issue is the message he gave. Negative, underhanded tactics to win and fulfill his own aspirations. I hope this can be an issues-based campaign where people put forth answers to financial crisis.”

On the other side of the aisle Legislator Ed Day, the GOP candidate, agreed that LaCorte’s spy tactic was too underhanded for his taste.

“It’s a pretty sorry commentary,” said Day. “I don’t find any of it funny. We should be speaking about issues not playing spy with other candidates…I am sure this type of illicit activity will be frowned upon by every fair-minded person in the county.”

In recognition of American Heart Month, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center will offer free cardiac screenings on Tuesday, February 5 from 1 – 7 p.m. in the hospital auditorium located at 255 Lafayette Avenue in Suffern, NY.

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Please call 1-888-606-CALL (2255) to pre-register.

FROM THE DA’S OFFICE

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas P. Zugibe on Wedesday announced the filing of criminal charges against 28 individuals on drug and other charges following a four-month undercover investigation targeting narcotics trafficking activities in the community.

The defendants – who range in age from 24 to 53 – are charged with selling crack and powdered cocaine, heroin, ketamine, oxycodone, Ecstasy, Percocet, marijuana and other controlled substances to undercover police officers on more than 75 separate occasions during the past several months in Haverstraw, Clarkstown, Orangetown and Ramapo.

According to the charges, some of the open-air transactions were made in the villages of Suffern, Nyack and Haverstraw, often in the busy downtown areas. The drug transactions have led to more than 90 counts of criminal sale and criminal possession of controlled substances.

District Attorney Zugibe said, “This investigation will take us a long way to improving the quality of life for the residents of our community and in reducing drug-related violence and other criminal activity. These arrests make Rockland County safer by putting drug dealers in jail.”

Twenty-four of the 28 defendants have prior criminal histories for burglary, robbery, attempted murder, assault, criminal sale and criminal possession of controlled substances, resisting arrest, coercion, grand larceny, petit larceny and child sex crimes.

The large-scale investigation focused on a numerous locations, including downtown areas in the villages of Suffern, Nyack and Haverstraw. According to the charges, other illegal activities took place in the Palisades Center mall in West Nyack and the Thruway Plaza strip mall on Route 59 in Nanuet.

Through traditional investigative means such as physical surveillance and search warrants, coupled with court-authorized electronic surveillance, authorities allegedly developed information that led detectives to areas known for drug selling. In addition to the arrests, officers executed court-

authorized search warrants and recovered various amounts of prescription pills, cocaine, heroin and drug paraphernalia.

Among those arrested was Wilfredo Torres (DOB 02/25/63) of 20 Main Street, Apartment #30, Garnerville, New York. Investigators identified Torres as a significant cocaine dealer in the Town of Haverstraw. His lengthy criminal record includes prior arrests for criminal sale and criminal possession of controlled substances, grand larceny, robbery, burglary, conspiracy and resisting arrest.

Additionally, the investigation into a “pill mill” in Clarkstown led to the arrest of Andrew Flores (DOB 09/08/88) of 149 West Clarkstown Road, New City, New York. A search warrant executed at Flores’ residence led to the seizure of nearly 500 pills, including oxycodone, suboxone, ketamine and marijuana. The estimated street value of these pills and marijuana is approximately $14,000.

The 28 defendants are variously charged with numerous counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, a class “B” felony and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a class “B” felony, each punishable by up to nine years in prison.

Rockland County Drug Task Force Director Christopher Goldrick said, “These long-term drug investigations arrests have been a collaborative and coordinated response to open-air drug dealing complaints from our residents. The Drug Task Force, along with the Street Crime Units, Detective Bureaus and Uniform Patrol Officers will continue to dismantle open-air drug dealers and gang members that fuel all other crimes that deteriorate our communities. The Rockland County Drug Task Force recognizes the valuable partnership it has established with our federal and state agencies.”

The investigation continues into the reach and scope of illicit drug trafficking in Rockland County and further arrests will be made.

ARRESTED
Name: Jose Gonzalez, aka: Chelo, DOB: 05/06/1988
Address: 228 Carroll Street, Paterson, New Jersey 07501
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: No criminal history found
Related Case #: N-192-11
Indictment #: 2012-028
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Theodore Hanauer, aka: Teddy, DOB: 02/02/1974
Address: Mt. Ivy Trailer Park, Pomona, New York 10970
Drug Sold: Prescription Drugs
Prior Charges: 24 prior charges: CPCS 7th, CPND 4th, was on probation, UPM, DWAI, Agg. Harassment 2nd, Criminal Mischief 4th, Burglary 2nd, Robbery 3rd, Menacing: Weapon 2nd, Unlawful Imprisonment 2nd, Criminal Contempt 1st & 2nd, Harassment 2nd, DWAI, CPW 4th, Menacing 3rd, Criminal Trespass 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-050-12
Location of Arrest: 1 South Main Street, New City, NY 10956
Related Case #: N-004-10
Indictment #: 2012-279
Charges: PL 220.31 CSCS 5th degree, D felony, 2 counts; PL 220.06(1) CPCS 5th degree, D felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Jose Cordero, DOB: 08/14/1965
Address: 141 110 Route 303, West Nyack, NY 10994
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 15 prior charges: Assault 3rd & 2nd, CPCS 7th, Resisting Arrest, CPSP 5th & 4th, CPCS 2nd, Stolen Property 5th, Robbery 2nd, Burglary 2nd, Grand Larceny 4th, Prior Parole Status
Arrest #: TF-049-12
Location of Arrest: 209 Route 9W, Congers, NY 10920
Related Case #: N-190-11
Indictment #: 2012-273
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Paul Giddens, DOB:07/30/1980
Address: 12 Aselin Drive, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Drug Sold: Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: 4 felony charges: Robbery 2nd, Att Murder 2nd, Assault 1st, CPW 2nd, Criminal Possession, Loaded Firearm 3rd, Robbery 1st, CSCS 3rd,
Arrest #: TF-045-12,
Location of Arrest: 37 Fairview Av, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Related Case #: N-053-12
Indictment #: 2012-389
Charges: PL 160.10(2A) Robbery 2nd degree Cause Physical Injury, C Felony, 1 count; PL 160.15(3) Robbery 1st degree, B Felony, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Oswald Leal-Gomez, DOB: 12/03/1989
Address: 25 West Maple Avenue, Suffern, NY 10901
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 1 felony charge: CPCS 5^th
Arrest #: TF-047-12,
Location of Arrest: 34 West Maple Avenue, Suffern, NY 10901
Related Case #: N-085-12, N-005-12
Indictment #: –
Charges: PL 220.06(5) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 5th degree, D Felony, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Luis Santamaria-Herrera, DOB: 11/09/1982
Address: 45 Brookside Avenue, Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Drug Sold: Cocaine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, ecstasy, opana, morphine, marijuana
Prior Charges: No criminal history on file
Arrest #: TF-051-12
Location of Arrest: Route 303, Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Related Case #: N-088-12, N-005-12
Indictment #: 2012-310 Charges: PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts PL 220.50(3) Criminal Use Drug Paraphernalia 2nd degree, A Misdemeanor, 2 counts PL 221.10(2) Criminal Possession Marijuana 5th degree, B Misdemeanor, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Anthony Nash, DOB: 10/29/1986
Address: 118 87 South Liberty Drive, Stony Point, NY 10980
Drug Sold: Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: 7 felony charges: Resisting Arrest, UPM, CPW 4th, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3rd, CPW 3rd, Assault 2nd, Reckless Endangerment 2nd, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Office in an Motor Vehicle, Reckless Driving
Arrest #: TF-066-12
Location of Arrest: Walnut Hill, West Haverstraw, NY 10993
Related Case #: N-208-11
Indictment #: 2012-242
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Melanie Nelson, DOB: 02/05/1977
Address: 9 Union Street, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Drug Sold: Suboxone
Prior Charges: 4 Felony Charges: CSCS 4th, CPCS 5th,
Arrest #: TF-067-12
Location of Arrest: 9 Union Street, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Related Case #: N-128-11
Indictment #: 2012-292
Charges: PL 220.34(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 4th degree, C Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.06(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 5th degree, D Felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Lisa Vigliotti, DOB: 10/12/1978
Address: 116 Main Street, Nyack, New York 10960
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: CPM 5th, CPCS 3rd, UPM
Arrest #: TF-082-12
Location of Arrest: 116 Main Street, Apartment 3, Nyack, NY 10960
Related Case #: N-161-12
Indictment #: —
Charges: PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts PL 221.05 Unlawful Possession Marijuana, Violation, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Patrick Jean-Pierre, DOB: 02/26/1968
Address: 18 Coolidge Court, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Drug Sold: Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: 11 Felony Charges: CSCS 3rd, CPCS 3rd, CPCS 7th, Att.CPCS 7th, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3rd, Grand Larceny 4th, Robbery 2nd, Criminal Mischief
Arrest #: TF-068-12
Location of Arrest: 18 Main Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Related Case #: N-009-10
Indictment #: 2012-035
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 1 count; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Armando Zayas, DOB: 11/06/1964
Address: 57 Broadway, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Drug Sold: Heroin
Prior Charges: 22 Felony Charges: Possession Gambling Records 2nd, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3rd, CSCS 4th, CSM 5th, CPM 4^th
Arrest #: TF-069-12
Location of Arrest: 474 Van Dam Street, Long Island City, NY 11101
Related Case #: N-153-11
Indictment #: 2012-257
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Dennis Maas, DOB: 08/26/1950
Address: 520 Mountainview Avenue, Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Drug Sold: Oxycodone
Prior Charges: 12 Felony charges: Promoting Gambling 2nd, Loitering, Issuing a bad check, Possession Dangerous Drugs 3rd, Selling Dangerous Drugs 4th, Grand Larceny, Resisting Arrest, CPCS 7th, Unauthorized use of vehicle, Criminal Mischief 4th, Disorderly Conduct, Assault 3rd, Agg. Harassment, Criminal Trespass 2nd, Assault 2nd, Criminal Contempt 2nd, Bail Jumping 2^nd
Arrest #: TF-076-12
Location of Arrest: 326 West Route 59, Nanuet, NY 10954
Related Case #: N-020-12
Indictment #: 2012-413
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: John Davies, DOB: 07/22/1957
Address: 5 Lawrence Street West, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Drug Sold: Oxycodone
Prior Charges: 11 Felony Charges: Grand Larceny 3rd, Unauthorized Use of Vehicle, Petit Larceny, Possession Stolen Property 3rd, Burglary 3rd, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass 3rd, Assault 2nd, Forgery 3rd, Criminal Possession Stolen Credit Card, Obst Govt Admin, CPCS 7th, CPCS 3rd, DWI, CPSP 5th, CSCS 3rd, CPCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-077-12
Location of Arrest: Lawrence Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Related Case #: N-024-12
Indictment #: 2012-412 Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Michael Taccariello, aka: Shrek, DOB: 12/05/1992
Address: 9 Old Country Road, Pomona, NY 10970
Drug Sold: Percocet, Oxycodone
Prior Charges: 4 Felony Charges: Coercion 1st, Promote an Obscene Sexual Performance by Child, Attempted Coercion 1st by child, Attempted Promote an obscene Sexual Performance by child
Arrest #: TF-001-13
Location of Arrest: 9 Old Country Road, Pomona, NY 10970
Related Case #: N-027-12
Indictment #: 2012-540
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Jermaine King, DOB: 07/11/1984
Address: 12 Parkway Trailer Park, Pomona, NY 10970
Drug Sold: Oxycodone, Clonazepam
Prior Charges: CSCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-009-13
Location of Arrest: 12 Parkway Trailer Park, Pomona, NY 10970
Related Case #: N-028-12
Indictment #: 2012-539
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Diamond Dickerson, aka: D, DOB: 06/29/1977
Address: 100 Dowd Street, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Drug Sold: Crack
Prior Charges: 9 Felony charges: CPSP 5th, UPM, Bail Jumping 3rd, CPSP 4th, Assault 3rd, CSCS 3rd, Att. CPCS 3rd, CPCS 7th, Rape: intercourse Female Physically Helpless
Arrest #: TF-010-13
Location of Arrest: Dowd Street, Haverstraw, NY 10927
Related Case #: N-083-12, N-116-12
Indictment #: 2012-511 Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B Felony, 2 counts PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Kris Manoylovich, DOB: 07/19/1973
Address: 5 Brookdale Ct, Bardonia, NY 10954
Drug Sold: Oxycodone
Prior Charges: 8 felony charges: Petit Larceny, CPSP 5th, Criminal Mischief 4th, CPCS 7th, CUDP 2nd, DWI, UPM, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-019-13
Location of Arrest: Bardonia Road, Bardonia, NY
Related Case #: N-015-12
Indictment #: 2013-033
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Linda Famelico, DOB: 04/29/1956
Address: 15 Grotke Road, Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977
Drug Sold: Oxycodone, Marijuana
Prior Charges: Petit Larceny, Criminal Possession Stolen Property 5th, CSCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-017-13
Location of Arrest: 15 Grotke Road, Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977
Related Case #: N-128-12
Indictment #: 2013-034
Charges: PL 220.39(1) Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Michael Jackson, DOB: 08/08/1977
Address: 250 Fifth Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960
Drug Sold: Cocaine, Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: 8 Felony Charges: DWI 1st, Obstruct Govt Admin 2nd, Agg. Unlicensed Operation Motor Vehicle 3rd, Criminal Mischief, CPSP 5th, CPSP 2rd, UPM, Assault 2nd, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-011-13
Location of Arrest: 250 Fifth Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960
Related Case #: N-008-13
Indictment #: 2013-052
Charges: PL 220.16(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.18(1) CPCS 2nd degree, A-II felony, 2 counts; PL 260.10 Endangering Welfare of Child, A Misdemeanor, 1 count; PL 221.05 Unlawful Possession Marijuana, Violation, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Monique Felix, DOB: 07/23/1978
Address: 250 Fifth Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960
Drug Sold: Cocaine, Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: Shows no criminal history
Arrest #: TF-012-13
Location of Arrest: 250 Fifth Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960
Related Case #: N-008-13
Indictment #: 2013-052
Charges: PL 220.16(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.18(1) CPCS 2nd degree, A-II felony, 2 counts; PL 260.10 Endangering Welfare of Child, A Misdemeanor, 1 count; PL 205.30 Resisting Arrest, A Misdemeanor, 1 count; PL 221.05 Unlawful Possession Marijuana, Violation, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Wilson Guillen, DOB: 05/24/1982
Address: 2032 East 17th Street, Bronx, NY
Drug Sold: Cocaine, Crack/Cocaine
Prior Charges: Shows no criminal history
Arrest #: TF-013-13
Location of Arrest: 250 Fifth Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960
Related Case #: N-008-13
Indictment #: 2013-052
Charges: PL 220.16(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.18(1) CPCS 2nd degree, A-II felony, 2 counts; PL 220.43 Criminal Sale Controlled Substance 1st degree, A Felony, 1 count

ARRESTED
Name: Andrew Flores, DOB: 09/08/1988
Address: 149 West Clarkstown Road, New City, NY 10956
Drug Sold: Oxycodone
Prior Charges: 9 Felony Charges: CPM 5th, Criminal Mischief 3rd, Forgery 1st, Petit Larceny, CSCS 3rd, CPCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-089-12
Location of Arrest: 149 West Clarkstown Road, New City, NY 10956
Related Case #: N-172-12
Indictment #: SCI
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ARRESTED
Name: Wilfredo Torres, DOB: 02/25/1963
Address: 20 Main St, Apt. 30, Garnerville, NY 10923
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 31 Felony Charges: Robbery 2nd, Criminal Trespass 3rd, Petit Larceny, Burglary 2nd, Grand Larceny 2nd, Hindering Prosecution 3rd, Grand Larceny 3rd, CPSP 3rd, resisting Arrest, CPCS 7th, CSCS 2nd, Obst Govt Admin 2nd, Conspiracy 2nd, Conspiracy 4th, CPCS 3rd, CSCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-005-13
Location of Arrest: 20 Main Street, Apt 30, Garnerville, NY 10923
Related Case #: N-006-13
Indictment #: –
Charges: PL 220.16(2) CPCS 3rd degree, B Felony, 1 count

ARRESTED – Held on Immigration Warrant (ICE)
Name: Henry Aguilar, DOB: 05/17/1981
Address: 16 Johnsons Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: CPCS 3^rd
Arrest #: TF-004-13
Location of Arrest: 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10960
Related Case #: N-003-13
Indictment #: 2013-013
Charges: PL 220.16(1) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance 3rd degree, 2 cts

ACTIVE WARRANT
Name: Noe Mendez, aka: Conquis, DOB: 01/15/1985
Address: 14A Cross Street, Suffern, New York 10901
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 5 prior charges: Assault 1st, Riot 2nd, CPW 4th, Assault 3^rd
Related Case #: N‐083‐11
Indictment #: 2012‐030
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ACTIVE WARRANT
Name: David Ward, aka: Triple D, DOB: 11/21/1980
Address: 52 First Street, Haverstraw, New York 10927
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 20 prior charges: Forgery 2nd, Grand Larceny 4th, CPSP 4th, CPSP 5th, CPCS 5th, CPCS 7th, Disorderly Conduct, Burglary 3rd & 2nd, Tampering with physical evidence, currently on parolee
Related Case #: N‐166‐11
Indictment #: 2012‐241
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ACTIVE WARRANT
Name: LaSean Goode, aka: Bones, DOB: 11/23/1984
Address: 454 North Liberty Drive, Stony Point, New York 10980
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 7 prior charges: Resisting Arrest, CPCS 5th, Assault 3rd, UPM,
Gang Member: Blood Gang
Related Case #: N‐188‐11
Indictment #: 2012‐234
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

ACTIVE WARRANT
Name: Nelson Sierra, aka: Peachy, DOB: 01/17/1978
Address: 38 Demarest Avenue, West Haverstraw, New York 10993
Drug Sold: Cocaine
Prior Charges: 1 prior charge: Robbery 1^st
Related Case #: N‐213‐11
Indictment #: 2012‐211
Charges: PL 220.39(1) CSCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts; PL 220.16(1) CPCS 3rd degree, B felony, 2 counts

Editor,

Now county executive candidate Dagan Lacorte says he wants to raise the level of the campaign, an action so incredulous as it came out a few days after he was caught spying on a candidate in a clear attempt to get “dirt” on someone who he claims to be a “friend.” Well, he has raised the level of one thing: chutzpah. As to the “discourse” he speaks of, all I have seen have been negative comments made on other candidates in various blogs and social media that clearly trace back to him or his allies. One of those was made by none other than disgraced former Assemblyman Ryan Karben, his friend, political confidant, and one who bankrolled Lacorte’s campaign with over $25,000.

A “rough and tumble campaign”? It’s January. There is no campaign yet, other than the well thought out actions of Mr. Lacorte that include trying to secretly record his opponent in what he called a “recon” mission. Lacorte should reflect upon the error of his ways instead engaging in a very shallow lecture on ethics or engaging in what is clearly some sort of political damage control. I find the entire episode sickening. Lacorte’s actions tell me he is a “win at any cost” candidate, and I never thought I would live to see the day that a self-proclaimed progressive Democrat would win the trophy for best Nixonian performance in local politics.

And Lacorte should follow that former president’s lead – get out of politics.

Ellen Donovan
Pomona

To the Editor,

So good. Congratulations on publishing a wonderful and informative newspaper.

George Parness
Retired and formerly of Suffern

Senator David Carlucci will host his Veterans Advisory Committee meeting next Thursday (Valentine’s Day), February 14 from 10 a.m. – noon. The event will be held at the VFW Ramapo Post 2973, 16 Ramapo Road, Suffern. Among the topics that will be discussed includes Senator Carlucci’s “Jobs for Heroes” legislation in the Senate. The bill, which attracts bipartisan support, gives tax credits to businesses that hire veterans who have served in the military post-9/11. Other issues will include mental health and wellness for returning veterans, including dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. The event will also showcase the Senator’s annual “Valentines for Veterans” celebration, which gives Rockland County elementary school students the chance to create Valentine’s Day cards for veterans across the Hudson Valley. For more information, please contact Senator Carlucci’s office at 845-623-3627.

PRESS RELEASE

To assess the risk of venous disease, Bon Secours Charity Health System will host free leg vein screenings from 5 – 8 p.m. on Monday, February 25 at the Suffern Medical Pavilion located at 257 Lafayette Avenue, Suite 300 in Suffern and Tuesday, February 26 at 30 Hatfield Lane, Suite 309 in Goshen.

Visible leg veins are not only a cosmetic concern, but can progress to serious disease if left untreated including blood clots, ulcers, and other complications. That is why screening is such an important first step in determining the extent of your leg vein health. Each screening will include a physical examination and a review of patient’s medical history. If further evaluation is needed, an appointment for testing and treatment can be scheduled. General information about venous disease and its causes will also be available at the event.

The free screenings will be offered by Anuj R. Shah, M.D., F.A.C.C. of Metropolitan Cardiology Consultants and Director, Vascular Medicine and Interventions at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and Bon Secours Community Hospital. Dr. Shah, an Interventional Cardiologist, is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology, Vascular Ultrasound Interpretation and Internal Medicine and is Board Eligible in Interventional Cardiology. He is also an expert in performing endovenous procedures including laser and radiofrequency guided ablation of varicose veins.

Pre-registration is required for these free leg vein screenings. To make an appointment, register online at www.bschs.bonsecours.com/bschevent or call 1-888-606-CALL (2255). Refreshments will be served.

Dr. Anuj Shah is examining a patient’s leg for diseased or damaged veins that result from venous insufficiency, a condition caused by incompetent valves. Photo by Barry Warner.

Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern has been hosting leg vein screenings this winter season with the most recent being January 23 and the next coming up on February 26. Visible leg veins are not only a cosmetic concern, but can progress to a serious disease referred to as Chronic Vein Insufficiency (CVI), if left untreated. With CVI, the vein valves no longer function properly, causing the blood to pool in the legs.

At a January 23, 2013 leg vein screening Dr. Anuj Shah, Cardiologist at Good Samaritan Hospital said, “Twenty million people suffer from venous reflux disease, it is common in both genders and the breakdown includes 15 million women and six million men. CVI is a progressive disorder and symptoms can worsen over time such as leg swelling, leg pain and venous ulcers that can lead to amputation. CVI is recognized as a medical condition and there is a minimally-invasive treatment available. Venous Oblation or a closure procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in the office. Using ultrasound, a tiny catheter is positioned into the diseased vein through a small opening in the skin. The tiny catheter, powered by radio-frequency energy, delivers heat to the vein wall. As the thermal energy is delivered, the vein wall shrinks and the vein is sealed closed. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is re-routed to other healthier veins. After the procedure, a simple bandage is placed over the insertion site. There are good cosmetic outcomes with minimal or no scarring bruising or swelling and compression stockings may be provided to aid the healing process. Twenty-four people showed up for the screening and eighteen needed follow-up ultrasound testing on the leg or legs with symptoms. The other six people were symptom-free, but benefitted from the screening.”

The venous system is made up of a network of veins, including:

. Superficial Veins- veins located close to the skin.
. Deep Veins- larger veins located deep in the leg.
. Perforator Veins- veins that connect the superficial veins to the deep veins.

Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart. Venous reflux disease develops when the valves that keep blood flowing out of the legs and back to the heart become damaged or diseased. Consequently, the vein valves will not close properly leading to the symptoms of varicose or bulging veins, pain, swollen limbs, leg heaviness and fatigue. Risk factors include increased age, women who have been pregnant, people with a family history and people whose jobs require them to spend a great amount of time standing.

The next Leg Vein Screening Program with Dr. Anuj Shah will take place on Tuesday, February 26, 2013 from 5 to 8 p.m. For further information or an appointment, please call 1-888-606-2255.

Cardiac Support Group Inspires Hope and Improves Quality Of Life

Mended Hearts, Lower Hudson Valley (NY) – Chapter # 368 will be sponsoring a free community program: “What’s new in Cardiac Surgery? An informal dialogue with Dr. Rawn Salenger” at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12 at the Bon Secours Charity Building located at 1 Campbell Avenue in Suffern, NY.

Mended Hearts is a support group that offers compassion, hope and encouragement to heart patients and their families. At the meetings, participants listen, share their experiences and volunteer to talk to other heart patients about what they may face including lifestyle changes, depression, recovery, and treatment. This free group is open to all individuals affected by cardiac disease.

A Cardiac Surgeon at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Dr. Salenger is board certified by both the American Board of General Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery. He is also a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate from the Union College/Albany Medical College Seven Year Medical Program, Dr. Salenger completed his internship and residencies at the Albert Einstein Medical Center where he received the Exemplary Chief Resident Award. He also completed a residency at University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center and was awarded an Alley Sheridan Fellowship from the Thoracic Surgery Foundation of Harvard University. Prior to coming to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Dr. Salenger was an instructor in Cardiac Surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

There is no charge for the event, however, seating is limited. To RSVP, please contact Barbara Demundo at 845-368-5545 or barbara_demundo@bshsi.org.

BY KATHY KAHN

Rockland Legislative chair Harriett Cornell speaks with Kevin Dahill, president/CEO of the Suburban Hospital Alliance

Hearts and flowers were put aside for a bit on February 14 as Suburban Hospital Alliance president and CEO Kevin Dahill got down to the nuts and bolts of the Affordable Care Act’s implications for Rockland.

Before a packed luncheon of Rockland Business Association members at Suffern’s Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dahill outlined the implications “Obamacare” will have on the county’s three hospitals, which are already seeing funding dwindling as ACA costs kick in.

The goal– to provide health insurance for 35 million uninsured and uninsurable Americans, with 1.1 million residing in New York – is admirable and needed, said Dahill. But to meet the costs of providing such care, hospitals nationwide will lose $156 billion in reimbursement over the next ten years. “This decline is already happening,” said Dahill. Physician reimbursements, too, are also part of the way the federal government will pay for ACA and have also been put into effect.

Rockland will see a loss of $22.4 million to its hospitals and another $13.5 million to its physicians over the next 10 years. “These cuts are taking place,” said Dahill, “even as Good Samaritan cut the ribbon on its new emergency room expansion this very morning.”

While much negative ado was made of the Affordable Care Act by former Gov. Mitt Romney during the elections, the healthcare system created under his watch in Massachusetts is now providing the guideline for other states to model their own healthcare systems.

From the federal government $400 million has been directed to New York’s Department of Health to ready the exchanges, and open enrollment is mandated to be in place by September, said Dahill. Since the insurance plan must have a minimum standard, Oxford’s EPO model was selected as a starting point in providing basic coverage.

“There will be ‘tiers’ that will offer varying levels of coverage,” said Dahill. “For people well acquainted with their medical needs and expenses, they will pick a plan with a higher premium that offers them the best coverage.” Others, especially the young and healthy, lamented Dahill, will opt for the cheapest plan with the higher co-pays and higher deductibles: It is not affordable if there is a catastrophic occurrence.

For the public about to embark on its journey into the world of Obamacare, “navigators” are being hired and trained to provide counseling assistance to those buying healthcare policies. “The goal is to create ‘one-stop shopping,’” said Dahill. “Navigators will determine if you qualify for Medicaid, Family/Child Health Plus or a small subsidy to help pay for your current insurance.”

Another sticking point for hospitals is an ACA policy that refuses to pay for a patient re-admission if it is within 30 days of a prior admission. “This is a battle we are going to keep fighting full force,” said Deborah Marshall, spokesperson for Good Samaritan. “What happens if someone comes in for surgery, leaves the hospital and gets hit by a car? He’ll have to come back to the hospital…how can anyone consider that a ‘re-admission’ when it is for something totally different than the first incident?”

Dahill is in full agreement. There is much that needs fixing in the 2,500 plus page document. “Congress changes, and we will see changes in ACA,” he predicted. “In the meantime, people need to be aware the health insurance exchanges will be here and in full gear by September.”

BY MICHAEL RICONDA

Suffern – With the public participation period of its budget process completed, the Village of Suffern will bring the matter to a final vote on April 1, though a final list of budget items might not have been completed yet.

According to Suffern Mayor Dagan Lacorte, minor changes to the budget will include additional revenue and an increase in Building Department personnel expenses to accommodate additional construction hours, both of which will total to a 1.74 percent increase in the tax levy. Lacorte explained there may also be additional revenue items which include a voluntary payment from the Salvation Army to the town which are expected to be included within the next week, lowering the tax levy percentage.

Suffern village treasurer Thomas Zordan explained a preliminary budget was posted online for public review before being re-reviewed and revised by the board. However, Zordan explained he was unaware of any major changes aside from a small decrease in the current tax levy figure from 1.85 to 1.78 percent, with a decrease in the total tax rate to 2.2 percent.

“They’re not in the budget unless I hear about it by Monday,” Zordan said.

Zordan could not confirm the presence of specific changes aside from the general tax levy decrease, but did not rule out the possibility of further changes before Monday.

The Town of Ramapo announces that the 12th annual Ramapo Big Screen Classics Film Festival begins on Saturday, April 27 at the historic Lafayette Theater in Suffern.

The Spring 2013 Festival includes the following films:

April 27 Judgment At Nuremberg (1961) – starring Spencer Tracy, Burt Lancaster & Montgomery Clift
May 4 Hans Christian Andersen (1952) – starring Danny Kaye & Farley Granger
May 11 The Vikings (1958) – starring Kirk Douglas, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh & Ernest Borgnine
May 18 Sweet Smell Of Success (1957) – starring Burt Lancaster, Tony Curtis & Martin Milner
May 25 Alfred Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934) – starring Peter Lorre & Leslie Banks
June 1 The Stranger (1946) – starring Orson Welles, Edward G. Robinson & Loretta Young

Since the series began in 2003, over 50,000 movie fans have attended the Big Screen Classics Film Festival. Ramapo senior citizens will once again be admitted free of charge to all of the movies with their senior passes, all other tickets are priced at $8. All films start at 11:30 a.m. with a Wurlitzer Organ Concert featuring Jeff Barker at 11 a.m.

For investors, the future is brighter than most believe:

BY CHRIS HANLY

Investment Consultant, Gary Goldberg Financial Services

The harsh reality for investors is that low interest rates are here to stay – in my opinion for many years to come. Yes, there are some signs of strength in the US economy, but globally the environment is still shaky – just take a look at what is happening in Europe. As a result, I believe large-cap multinational firms will greatly appreciate over the coming years. Low interest rates are great for large companies for the simple reason that they are able to substitute debt for equity at a very low borrowing cost. IBM, for instance, used the proceeds of a 2010 bond offering (which pays a 1 percent yield) to repurchase its shares – which had a 2 percent dividend yield at the time. Others have caught on to the strategy – in 2012, American companies spent over $400 billion to buy back their own shares. In the first quarter of 2013, US companies have announced over $120 billion in new share buybacks.

Some investors are paying attention and have already decided to participate in the market rally. According to data compiled by Morningstar, globally, investors pulled some $124.7 billion dollars from equity funds in 2012, while pouring $535.2 billion into fixed income funds. That trend has started to turn around. More monies flowed into equities (mutual funds and ETFs) in the first quarter of 2013 than monies flowed into fixed income funds. Historically, tepid investors have gravitated to large companies which they are familiar and comfortable with – the Procter & Gamble, Pfizer and McDonald’s of the world.

In the view of the Gary Goldberg Financial Services Investment Committee, high-quality high dividend-paying stocks are likely to continue to be attractive investments for some time to come. Our trademarked Dividend Buster Program has a dividend yield around 5 percent, just as importantly, the risk of the portfolio (as measured by volatility) is roughly 30 percent below that of the market overall. We believe that as long as we can find opportunities to invest in high quality stocks that generate a dividend yield that is more than twice that of 5-year corporate bonds or 10-year treasuries, there is a compelling reason to invest in them.

Right now, it’s clear that large companies who are utilizing their cash to repurchase shares and raise their dividends (which are still tax advantaged), will be the longer-term winners for investors.

Christopher Hanly is an investment consultant with Gary Goldberg Financial Services in Suffern and can be reached at (845) 368-2900 ext. 247 or chris.hanly@garygoldberg.com.

Troop 78 of Nanuet celebrates the achievements of three scouts; Matt DePaul from Suffern High School, Colin Myers from Suffern High School and Jon O’Neill from Clarkstown South High School. Each of the three boys have served the community and their troop for the past seven years learning lifelong skills and leadership that will carry them through life. DePaul’s Eagle project was the creation of a picnic area in Bon Aire Park in Suffern. DePaul utilized his fellow scouts and family friends to build picnic tables and benches that are enjoyed by the community. Myers Eagle project was Brooklands Park in Suffern, NY. The park was severely damaged during Hurricane Irene so Colin took this project on and added to it by refurbishing the grounds and riverfront. Myers replace old wood on benches and picnic table in addition to a park clean up of overgrown bushes and cleared paths so the park can once again be fully utilized. O’Neill’s project took place at Rockland Lake State Park in Valley Cottage. Walkers, joggers, bicyclists and more take advantage of the 3.2 mile path around the lake daily, in addition to the 4-acre Nature Center. O’Neill recognized the need to get information out to the visitors on hikes, trials and upcoming events and constructed two informational kiosks and the Nature Center.

The oldest movie theater in Rockland County, The Lafayette Theater, will screen the newest summer blockbuster movie, “Iron Man 3” in 3D, on May 2 at 9 p.m., a day before its national release. Doors open at 8:30 pm. “Iron Man 3” in 3D is based on the exploits of a Marvel Comics superhero. The film stars Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle. It is expected to gross over $300 million!

The historic Lafayette Theater, located at 97 Lafayette Avenue in Suffern, has a 1,000 seat capacity, convenient parking, a traditional large Silver Screen and Dolby stereo sound. Ticket and concession prices are well below that of the megaplexes.

To the Editor,

For sometime I have urged the Village Board of Suffern to repaint the faded double lines on our main streets such as Doxbury Lane, Parkside Drive, Yorkshire Drive and Bon Aire Circle. Most of this work was done with one exception, after re-paving Yorkshire Drive, the needed double line abruptly halted from the Parkside intersection all the way East to Cragmere Court. Many knowledgeable people have surmised that this was done by Mayor Dagan LaCorte as a favor to friends who live on Yorkshire Drive and object to the double lines for one reason or another. In doing some research on this topic, I obtained a copy of a thorough report on Yorkshire Drive, dated Sept. 16, 2009 done by a Frederick P. Clark Associates of Rye, N.Y.

Here are some conclusions from this report based on daytime observations; “This roadway serves as a collector road serving large residential areas and two large multi-family type developments. This roadway is not a local neighborhood roadway. It is our opinion that a double yellow centerline should be installed on this road to improve the over-all safety and operation of this road.”

In my experience this is also a dangerous road at night. It is winding and dimly-lit. There is simply no point of reference for the average driver to know where they are on the road. I presented copies of this five-page report to each trustee and the Mayor on April 1, 2013. The only reply was perplexed looks on their faces. Gentlemen and Ladies- you were elected to protect the safety of the citizens of Suffern. Stop this sham. Vote the funds-give the necessary orders and complete the double yellow line on Yorkshire Drive.

Sincerely,

Bil Pamm
Suffern

Jack Rosenberg accuses LaCorte of ripping a bag of political literature out of his hands, causing him to fall and injure himself

Though it has not been openly discussed among candidates or voters, there might be more behind the public image of Suffern mayor and county executive candidate Dagan LaCorte than meets the eye.

Specifically, LaCorte’s history of heated altercations with county residents, political opponents and even elected officials during his 2009 mayoral race and in other instances between 2007 and 2009, has the potential to cast a shadow over his current campaign. This is especially the case given his infamous spy text flub in January 2013, when he texted plans to spy on rival candidate David Fried directly to none other than David Fried.

According to police records, LaCorte was involved in at least three separate incidents in 2009 alone, including a well-publicized instance which reliable village sources confirm led to a civil settlement of $18,000 for injuring an elderly man.

LaCorte at a recent county executive debate. The LaCorte campaign did not return several calls over the course of the past month seeking comment on this story.

The incident involved Jack Rosenberg, a local activist and former village trustee who was campaigning for LaCorte’s then mayoral opponent John Keegan. Rosenberg was confronted by LaCorte, who Rosenberg claimed ripped a bag containing leaflets out of his hands. “He denied me my first amendment right,” exclaims Rosenberg, still animated about the incident over three years later.

When Rosenberg attempted to follow after LaCorte, he fainted and was injured. LaCorte was charged with petit larceny but ultimately received an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal, an offer to criminal defendants expunging their records provided they do not commit any more crimes for a certain period of time. Although he was not the newspaper’s source for the reported 18K figure, Rosenberg noted the final amount paid to him by LaCorte “was much more than a nuisance settlement.” He also questions how LaCorte managed to find an insurance policy that paid for the settlement of such a lawsuit.

In addition to the eventually dismissed charge against Rosenberg, LaCorte was the subject of two calls to Suffern police in September 2009, neither of which led to charges. According to a police report from September 6, LaCorte and another man appeared at the door of Suffern resident Diane Kugel as part of a campaign effort. When she asked him to leave, LaCorte allegedly became confrontational and yelled at her, resulting in a call to local police.

Police confronted LaCorte about the incident and LaCorte admitted to campaigning in the area and ringing Kugel’s doorbell, but denied arguing with her.

Duality seems to be common when people deal with LaCorte. Earlier this year, members of the Tarantino family, owners of a Suffern Hardware store on Lafayette Avenue, complained to local media that LaCorte had mocked the family and been insensitive to Mrs. Tarantino, a senior citizen who has bone cancer. The mayor said it was a misunderstanding.

We were unable to get LaCorte’s side of the story regarding a spat with Ramapo Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence at a Memorial Day event several years ago. St. Lawrence confirmed to the Rockland County Times that LaCorte had accosted him several years ago at a public event. Apparently oblivious to the somber surroundings, LaCorte grabbed St. Lawrence by throat and threatened retribution over some trifle that had disturbed him.

Another incident in 2009 also involved LaCorte’s election campaign. According to a written deposition given to Suffern Police by Richard DeStefano, LaCorte confronted DeStefano on Maplewood Drive in Suffern, yelling at him, spitting in his face and smacking him. The reason for the assault was not described.

Though DeStefano’s brother James stands by his brother’s original story, the police report indicates that workers at a nearby diner cast uncertainty on Destefano’s timeframe. According to Destefano, the incident happened at some point around 6:15 a.m., but a waitress claimed LaCorte arrived to meet a group for breakfast sometime between 6:05 and 6:10 a.m. Richard DeStefano

The supposed altercation is just one instance of bad blood between Destefano and LaCorte. During the mayoral race, LaCorte claimed opponent James Keegan recruited his brother-in-law James DeStefano to serve as his running mate for Village Trustee.

According to a mailing issued by LaCorte, Keegan recruited DeStefano’s brother Richard to perform repairs and construction work for the village, including an emergency repair job for the village pool for which Richard was not the lowest bidder. LaCorte claimed this was due to nepotism.

The conflict intensified when LaCorte ran a tongue-in-cheek ad likening the family ties to the television show “All in the Family.” The DeStefanos reacted strongly, with John referring to it as a “slanderous attack” rooted in negative stereotypes of Italian-Americans as corrupt contractors.

The controversy surrounding Richard’s winning bid was not initially a problem for LaCorte, who explained in an email between board members that he supported DeStefano’s selection in spite of his high bid. “Rich has done major jobs all across the country and we can’t afford to have this not be done right,” LaCorte wrote in the email.

In fact, Keegan had sought to disqualify his brother-in-law due to appearances of impropriety, but LaCorte overrode his concerns. Nonetheless, when election season heated up, LaCorte used the instance to arouse suspicion of nepotism.

Dagan LaCorte, Suffern mayor

In the course of investigating this story several other allegations also arose which were not substantiated, but fit the overall pattern of LaCorte’s alleged behavior, especially during the time period of 2007 through 2009.

Dylan Skriloff contributed to this report

The Rockland County Concert Band, under the baton of music director, Lawrence Keith Zaidan, will present its “Spring Spectacular!” concert on Saturday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m., at Rockland Community College, in the Cultural Arts Center.

This energetic musical program will include the greatest songs of The Beatles, a new medley of classic Disney songs, and music from two of Andrew Lloyd Webbers’s most beloved musicals: “Phantom of the Opera,” and “Evita.” The concert will also feature the iconic “Raider’s March” from John Williams’ 1981 film score of “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” as well as music from the current smash hit show: “Video Games Live!”

The concert will take place on Saturday evening, May 18, at 7:30 p.m., at Rockland Community College, 145 College Road, Suffern, NY, in the Cultural Arts Center. Tickets available in advance for $10 per adult, $8 for senior citizens and $5 for children 12 and under. For advanced ticket sales, call the band office at 845-429-1096, or visit the band’s website: www.RCCBNY.org.

The Wound and Hyperbaric Institute at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center is home to the leading wound care specialists and treatment options in the region including a limb salvage program. Recently, the Institute was awarded accreditation by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS), the leading authority in hyperbaric medicine. This accreditation is recognition that few hospitals and facilities have earned, and identifies the Institute as providing patients with advanced care. Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center is the only hospital in the county with UHMS accreditation to offer this treatment.

The staff of Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center’s Wound and Hyperbaric Institute, led by Hyperbaric Medical Director Byoung W. Yang, are leaders in industry research and recently received national recognition at the 27th Annual Clinical Symposium on Advances in Skin and Wound Care in Las Vegas where their poster submission entitled “Chronic Sternal Wound Management with Hyperbaric Oxygen, Antibiotics, and Vacuum Assisted Closure” was awarded first place. To learn more about the Wound and Hyperbaric Institute at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, please call Dr. Yang at 845-368-5951.

Golden-Globe winning star Jason Bateman will be filming scenes from Warner Brothers upcoming film “This is Where I Leave You” in Suffern on Saturday.

“Rocklanders know that Suffern is a great place to go to the movies, with our historic Lafayette Theater,” Mayor Dagan Lacorte said, “And I’m thrilled Hollywood realizes Suffern is a great place to make movies too. We’re rolling out the red carpet.”

Bateman, who started his career on Little House on the Prairie, achieved great notoriety for the critically acclaimed comedy series Arrested Development. He first gained acclaim as an adult when he appeared on The Hogan Family for 110 episodes and most recently was the of the comedies “Horrible Bosses” and “Identity Thief.” He became the Directors Guild of America’s youngest-ever director when he directed three episodes of the series at age 18.

“The spotlight is shining on a revitalized Suffern,” Lacorte said, “I hope the crew visits our acclaimed Restaurant Row and takes a look at the exciting new construction in our downtown business district.”

Lacorte said village officials would monitor the filming to avoid any disruption to residents.