Courtesy of State Senator Kemp Hannon
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Courtesy of State Senator Kemp Hannon |
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Kemp Hannon |
| The following is from his April 9, 2008 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, I want to advise you about an ongoing identity theft e-mail scam aimed at stealing your personal information. Recently, identity thieves have sent fraudulent e-mails to individuals claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These e-mails have asked the recipient for important personal information (such as social security numbers, account PIN numbers or passwords, or credit card information), or directed them to an official looking website where this information is requested. Once criminals obtain this personal information, they then use it to commit identity theft. The IRS does not initiate taxpayer communications through e-mail. They also do not request detailed personal information via e-mail or ask for PIN numbers or other secret access information for a taxpayer's credit card, bank, or other financial accounts. If you receive such an e-mail, do not respond, click links, or download attachments. You should immediately forward it to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov. Forwarding instructions are available from the IRS website by CLICKING HERE. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is courtesy of his office dated March 27th: SENATOR HANNON RECOGNIZES SURE FOUNDATION FOR PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATION Senator Kemp Hannon (R-6th S.D.) recently presented a citation to Novella Harris, director of the Sure Foundation Child Care Center, recognizing the Foundation's accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Based in Uniondale, the Sure Foundation's mission is to provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment that will enhance a child's social interaction through play; and build effective learning through hands-on activities in a literature based program. 
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| The following is from his March 27, 2008 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, I would like to let you know about a new website for those in need of home health care services and hospice care. The New York State Home Health and Hospice Profile website, homecare.nyhealth.gov is a new state website with information on these services statewide, with key quality measures listed to help people find appropriate care for themselves and their loved ones. This website is designed for users to easily obtain important information on home care and hospice services. Just like the Physician Profile, Hospital Profile and Nursing Home Profile websites, we need to make information readily available to patients and their families and continue to make healthcare transparent at all levels. There are other "New York Profile" websites, including the New York State Physician Profile website (nydoctorprofile.com) where patients can research their doctor; the New York State Hospital Profile website (hospitals.nyhealth.gov) where one can find information about hospitals in New York State, and the quality of care they provide; and the New York State Nursing Home Profile website (nursinghomes.nyhealth.gov) where information can be found about nursing homes across the state. The Web site will enable the public to: -Learn about the types of home care and hospice services that are available that would best meet their needs or their family's needs; -Easily search for home care agencies or hospice programs of interest by name, region or county; -Obtain readily important contact information on providers and programs; -Compare certified home health agencies on the basis of up to 12 quality measures; and -Obtain important and up-to-date information regarding certified home care agency and hospice program inspection reports and complaint investigation history, as well as recent DOH enforcement actions. Patients can also use this information to begin conversations with their doctors and other health care providers about their home care options. The goal of this Web site is to provide a needed service to New Yorkers and their families and caregivers who have had very little detailed information readily available to them to identify and compare local home care providers and review their inspection records. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his March 11, 2008 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, It may be cold outside, but now is the time to think about summer day camp for children if you are a parent. The Nassau County and State Departments of Health have some recommendations for parents struggling to choose a camp: -Parents should visit a summer camp before and during the camp season -Parents should speak with other parents whose children have attended the camp -Inquire if the camp complies with all County regulations -Ask if camp directors meet age and education requirements -Inquire about procedures of notifying parents if a child becomes ill or is injured -Ask if campers are always supervised while in the water -Speak with directors to see if those running camping trips are mature and experienced -Ask if proper health practices are being used in food preparation -Inquire if fire drills are performed For a more extensive list of what you should look for in a summer camp, visit the State Department of Health's website on Children's Camps in New York State at http://www.health.state.ny.us/environmental/outdoors/camps/nyscamp.htm The Nassau County Health Department inspects camps at least twice a season to assure all physical facilities are properly operated and maintained, and that proper supervision exists to ensure a healthy and safe environment for children. The Department also investigates reports of serious injury, illness and all allegations of abuse or maltreatment. Upon request, the Department will provide parents or guardians of prospective campers an opportunity to review inspection reports and plans. Summer day camps (between June 1 and September 15) need a permit to operate if they are occupied by children under 16 and are primarily for the purpose of outdoor organized group activities. If you would like to make an inquiry to the County Health Department about a summer camp you are thinking of sending your child to, call 516-227-9717 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. (Monday through Friday). I hope you found this information useful. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his February 5, 2008 e-mail: Dear Friend, Receiving regular exams from our physicians is vitally important to our health. The earlier a problem is detected, the better chance there is that treatment will work. Examples of important exams for women are breast and cervical cancer screenings. Free mammograms to uninsured women over the age of 40 and free cervical exams to all uninsured women over 18 years of age will be provided by the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Partnership, in conjunction with Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC) and others, on Saturday, March 8, 2008 from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at NUMC (2201 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow). Appointments are necessary. Only a form of identification with photograph is necessary. Call 516-572-3300 for an appointment and the exact location of screening exams. If you are unable to make an appointment on March 8, please call my office at 516-739-1700 and we will work to assist you. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his January 25, 2008 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, We all know how expensive it can be to live here on Long Island. That's why when I come across something that can save residents some money, I bring it to their attention. Below please find information on defensive driving courses being offered by AARP. Taking courses like these can save you money off your car insurance. February 28 from 10am - 6:30pm Location: Hempstead Library (115 Nichols Court, Hempstead) Fee: $10 per person payable at the time of registration (checks only, payable to AARP) Successful completion will remove up to 4 points from your driving record and entitle you to an insurance discount. Class size is limited. Bring your own lunch or snack. Class will meet in the Community Room. Hempstead Village residents can begin to register on January 26; non-resident registration begins February 9. Register by calling 516-481-6990. March 20 and 27 from 1pm - 5pm Location: Hempstead Library (115 Nichols Court, Hempstead) Fee: $10 per person payable at the time of registration (checks only, payable to AARP) This course will be offered in two sessions, on Thursday, March 20 from 1pm to 5pm and on Thursday, March 27 from 1pm to 5pm. Successful completion will remove up to 4 points from your driving record and entitle you to an insurance discount. Participants must complete both sessions for successful completion. Class size is limited. Bring your own lunch or snack. Class will meet in the Community Room. Hempstead Village residents can begin to register on February 23; non-resident registration begins March 8. Register by calling 516-481-6990. Click here to search for more AARP sponsored defensive driving classes by zip code. I hope this information was helpful. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his January 3, 2008 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, Because New York's Presidential Primary has been moved up to February 5th, the deadline to register to vote is also earlier than it has ever been if you are not already an enrolled voter. Those who are not registered to vote must register by January 11, 2008 if they want to be able to vote on February 5th. In order to vote in the primary, you must be registered in either the Republican or Democratic Party, and you must vote in the party's primary in which you are enrolled. Those not enrolled in a party and those enrolled in a "third party" (Independence, Conservative or Working Families) are not eligible to vote in the Presidential Primary. If you are already registered to vote in a particular party, you may not change your party registration to vote in a different party's primary on February 5th. Any change made now to your registered political party would not take effect until after the November 2008 elections. To register, you can download a voter registration form at the Nassau County Board of Elections website You can also call the Board at (516) 571-2411 and have a form mailed to you. Moreover, many public libraries have voter registration forms available. New York has traditionally had a later primary, with nominees all but certain in the Republican and Democratic parties by the time we voted. New York will exert a larger amount of influence over this year's major party nominees due to our earlier scheduled primary. It has never been more important for New Yorkers to make their voices heard at the ballot box. In order to be eligible, you must be an American citizen, having lived in Nassau County for at least 30 days, and be at least 18 years old by February 5th. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his December 20, 2007 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, December 31 is a traditional deadline to apply for many programs and to contribute to funds and charities to receive a 2007 tax deduction. Below I have listed some items you may wish to address prior to December 31. STAR Rebate Check Visit www.nystax.gov and click on "NYS 2007 STAR" to apply online. If you have questions, call 1-877-678-2769. STAR, Enhanced STAR and other property tax exemptions Visit http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/Assessor/Department%20Services/index.html to download property tax exemption applications and to obtain more information. College 529 Savings Plans Visit http://nysaves.uii.upromise.com/ for information about New York's 529 College Savings Program. You can invest $5,000 per year ($10,000 for married couples) tax free. You must make a contribution by the end of this year in order to make a deduction from your 2007 taxes. Medicare Part D The Medicare annual Open Enrollment Period for prescription drug plans began Nov. 15 and ends Monday, Dec. 31, 2007. Now is the time for Medicare beneficiaries to prepare and compare their health and prescription drug coverage options and choose the plan that best meets their needs. For more information, go to www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. EPIC Having EPIC can save you money on prescriptions. Visit http://www.health.state.ny.us/health_care/epic/ or call 1-800-332-3742. -One of the largest toy retailers, Toys 'R' Us, has implemented a system where recalled toys will automatically be denied for purchase at the cash register within 24 hours of a recall notice. Should a consumer attempt to buy a recalled toy which is still on the shelf, the toy will be blocked from sale at the time it is scanned at the register Effective July 1, 2007, the NYS Department of Health commenced a process to enroll seniors who are EPIC participants into a Medicare Part D plan. Seniors are required to participate to remain eligible for EPIC, unless Medicare Part D enrollment would cause significant financial hardship (such as the loss of health insurance benefits). Charitable Contributions To make a deduction from your 2007 taxes, charitable contributions must be made by December 31, 2007. As always, feel free to call my office at 516-739-1700 with any questions you may have. Best wishes to you and your family for a happy and healthy new year, Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his December 5, 2007 e-mail: On Monday, I held a Senate hearing to examine contaminated toy recalls in New York State According to the most recent data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), toy-related injuries sent almost 73,000 children under the age of five to emergency rooms in 2005. A number some may find surprising: between 80% and 87% of all toys in the United States are manufactured in China. Often, instances such as lead paint in toys are the result of improper manufacturing at a specific plant. Since the lead paint crisis began, over 700 plants in China have been closed, out of about 10,000. Some of the hearing's findings: We need to pressure Governor Spitzer to show the same concern for suburban commuters. -Clean New York has the results of their testing of 1,200 popular children's toys for toxic chemicals at www.healthytoys.org. With this tool, parents and other shoppers can now easily search by product name, brand, or toy type. You can search for recalled toys at the CPSC website, http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prerel.html. There, you can search for recalls by date, type, company and description. -NYPIRG urges parents to avoid toys made of PVC plastic (choose unpainted wooden or cloth toys instead) and to read the labels of play cosmetics and avoid products with xylene, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate. All lead should be removed from a child's environment, especially lead jewelry and other toys that can be swallowed. To test a piece of jewelry for lead, use a home lead tester available at the hardware store. For more information, visit www.toysafety.net. -Consumers Union has a list of test kits at http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/babies-kids/child-safety/indoors/kids-and-lead/lead-in-childrens-products-12-07/testing-the-test-kits/testing-the-test-kits.htm. They are relatively inexpensive and can give parents an idea as to which toys to discard (kits are not 100% accurate, check details on each kit for more information). -One of the largest toy retailers, Toys 'R' Us, has implemented a system where recalled toys will automatically be denied for purchase at the cash register within 24 hours of a recall notice. Should a consumer attempt to buy a recalled toy which is still on the shelf, the toy will be blocked from sale at the time it is scanned at the register Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his November 29, 2007 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, Governor Spitzer received a great deal of fanfare for freezing MTA subway fares, but he failed to address the remaining fare and toll increases which are being levied on Long Island Railroad riders and motorists on the city's bridge and tunnel tolls. MTA leaders have made it clear they intend to hike fares for already over-burdened Long Islanders, even though the MTA will end this year with a surplus of almost one billion dollars. A vote on the fare increase could come next month and Governor Spitzer, who acted swiftly to protect subway riders in New York City, is doing nothing to stop it. We need to pressure Governor Spitzer to show the same concern for suburban commuters. Help me fight the fare and toll hikes by visiting my website, www.kemphannon.com and signing the petition at the bottom of my homepage opposing them. We will deliver our message to Governor Spitzer that enough is enough! Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his November 13, 2007 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, I am e-mailing you to announce that the deadline to apply for the Middle Class STAR rebate program has been extended from November 30, 2007 to December 31, 2007 Many homeowners received their Middle Class STAR rebate application letter late because of a clerical error. While it appears everyone due to receive the rebate has or will have the application letter soon, the unanticipated delay could lead many homeowners to miss the deadline to apply. This extension will give needed time to any homeowner who, for any reason, has yet to apply Your rebate check is in addition to the property tax relief you already receive through the STAR program that is shown on your school tax bill. For additional information regarding your 2007 property tax rebates, general program information, frequently asked questions and to apply on-line, click here (http://www.nystax.gov/star/2007/default.htm) Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his August 30, 2007 e-mail: Dear Neighbor, I wanted to inform you of a recent report by the State Department of Health pertaining to West Nile Virus. There have been 14 mosquito pools and two birds testing positive for West Nile in Nassau County. According to the Nassau County Department of Health, the latest mosquito sample was collected on August 15th in Farmingdale. An American Crow was found in Levittown on August 15th and a Blue Jay in Syosset on August 20th. Prior positive mosquito pools were found in Bayville, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Jericho, Kings Point, Roosevelt, Upper Brookville, Valley Stream, Wantagh, West Hempstead, Westbury and Woodbury. In all cases, the virus was identified in a sample of Culex pipiens-restuans mosquito (a species which primarily bites birds). To date, no humans or horses have tested positive for West Nile in Nassau County, and the county has no plans to spray for adult mosquitoes at this time. Surveillance will continue at 42 trap sites in the county, and will be intensified in the Farmingdale area. Residents are being urged by the County Department of Health to take the following precautions: -Remove or empty standing water from old tires, garbage cans, pails, or any object which can hold water. -Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall. -Keep swimming pools chlorinated and their covers free of stagnant water. -Change the water in birdbaths every two or three days. -Install window and door screens and keep them in good repair. -Consider wearing long sleeves, pants, socks and mosquito repellent (according to directions) when outdoors where mosquitoes are active, especially in the late afternoon and from dusk to dawn. The public is being encouraged to report dead crows to the toll free NY State hotline at 1-866-537-2473 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Additional West Nile Virus information can be obtained by calling the County Department of Health at 516-571-2500 or by visiting http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/Health/westnile.html. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator www.kemphannon.com |
| The following is from his July 5th e-mail: Dear Friend, In the information age, our homes are accumulating more and more electronic devices. Recycling these pieces of equipment is important for the long term stability of our planet. I would like to inform you that you can participate in an “E-Cycling” program on Sunday, July 9 at Bay Park in East Rockaway between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The program is being run by the Town of Hempstead and enables residents to drop off computers, computer components, televisions, DVD players and VCRs for recycling. By participating in this event, you will be keeping toxic materials such as lead, mercury and arsenic from entering the waste system. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator P.S. - Another “E-Cycling” program will take place on October 28 at the Greenfield Cemetery Garage in Uniondale between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. |
| The following is from his June 9th e-mail: Dear Neighbor, The tragic passing of a 2-year old boy, following a swimming pool accident in Hicksville this past weekend, leaves us all heartsick; and I join our community in offering sincerest condolences to the toddler's family. This recent accident is a dismal reminder of past seasons when one too many Long Island families have been devastated by drownings. I am pleased to announce that this week the State Senate passed legislation ensuring all new pools have alarms which sound if a child falls in the water. We hope the Assembly also passes this bill to protect children who inadvertently fall into swimming pools. With the onset of the warmer weather and family health and safety an utmost priority, I want to take this time to share important safety information with you all, courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Red Cross. Pool Safety for Children, American Academy of Pediatrics:
Put up a fence, at least 4 feet high around all sides, to separate your house from the pool. Also, use gates that self-close and self-latch, with latches higher than your child's reach. Use a power safety cover that meets the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials, but not in place of the fence. Keep rescue equipment and a telephone by the pool. Do not let your child use air-filled "swimming aids" because they are not a substitute for approved life vests. Have anyone watching children around a pool learn CPR; and stay within an arm's length of your child. Remove all toys from the pool after use so children are not tempted to reach for them. -Secure pool when children are done swimming so they cannot get back in. Ocean Safety, American Red Cross:
Stay within the designated swimming area, ideally within the visibility of a lifeguard. Swim with others. Check surf conditions before entering the water; check to see if a warning flag is up or check with a lifeguard for water conditions, beach conditions, or any potential hazards. Stay away from piers, pilings, and diving platforms when in the water. Keep a lookout for aquatic life. Make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore. Do not try to swim against a current if caught in one. Swim gradually out of the current, by swimming across it. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator Sources for this e-mail: Newsday, Bankrate.com, U.S. Department of Energy, solveyourproblem.com |
| The following is from his May 8th e-mail: Dear Friend, The rise in gas prices is affecting us all. The State Senate has voted to cap the gas tax in an effort to help New Yorkers. We are waiting on the Assembly to also pass this cap so the Governor can sign it into law. I want to offer you some tips on ways to save money during this time: -Make sure to keep your engine tuned and to have your oil changed on schedule. -Try to sign up for a gas credit card offering fuel rewards, discounts or credits. -Keep your tank at least a quarter full or more so your engine does not have to work as hard. -Take unnecessary items out of your trunk. The more weight your vehicle carries, the more fuel it burns. -Close windows while driving on the highway and use the air conditioner or fan. Opening windows increases air resistance. However, in stop-and-go traffic, open the windows since using the air conditioner in this environment can lower fuel economy. -Make sure your gas cap is closed correctly and tightened and replace the cap if it is loose or broken. Doing so will limit the amount of gas evaporating. -Do not speed or rev your engine as this burns fuel. -If your air filter is dirty, have it replaced to improve fuel economy. -Make sure your tires are inflated properly. You can also visit www.newyorkgasprices.com, autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx or www.gaspricewatch.com to compare gas prices. I hope this information is helpful to you. Sincerely, KEMP HANNON New York State Senator Sources for this e-mail: Newsday, Bankrate.com, U.S. Department of Energy, solveyourproblem.com |
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The following is from his April 19th e-mail: The following is from his April 6th e-mail: The following is from his March 29th e-mail: "On Friday, March 10, I co-chaired a public hearing in Mineola with Senator Michael Balboni to examine a potential avian influenza ("bird flu") pandemic in New York. I received numerous e-mails from constituents interested in knowing what took place at the hearing. This page was last updated on 04/13/08 Send updates to Mike Dragonetti |