PAT MED investigation

[Wowser]

Read the LI Advance today. Well it's about time! Hopefully the residents will get an actual accounting of the goings on within this district.
1. The need for a full audit by the state is most welcomed.
2. If there is any criminal behavior, it should be prosecuted
3. Hope relationship Tina has within DA's office won't compromise investigation
4. So glad Colin Mincy weighed in with his opinion. (are you kidding Colin) ?

[Weeks Watch]

rumors - is that what all you people are about...why would you want to put forth a rumor that dog face weeks has some wort of "pull" with the district attorney? What kind of relationship are you referring to?

her brother-in-law works in the DA's office which employs THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE. So naturally, the DA is investigating the school district because of that magnetic pull that Tina has over the state of New York - that she has singlehandedly convinced the DA Spota and his education task force to investigate the school district for no reason...just because she said so. It has nothing to do with the fact that employees at district office have told me that 5 - 6 people at a time were in the offices copying hundreds of documents for a week. Must all be Tina's fault - couldn't be that they may have uncovered something that is wrongdoing. Wowser thank you for your objective and unbiased opinion.

[TapeGate]

LOL. Guest, I'm getting a kick out of your post. I can't stand Tina Weeks, and I like her behavior in taping executive sessions even less than I like her. But I am woman enough to admit that something is brewing in terms of the money and the finances of the school district, and I can't solely attack her for that - especially since it was her squeaky shreeky voice that asked Marran question after question meeting after meeting about procedures and money, while the rest of the BOE rolled their eyes and then voted yes to everything because Veronica said it was okay. Somewhere between what Tina (Linda Tripp wannabe) is saying and what LoSchiavo (Marran's spokesman) are saying is the truth. Personally, I don't like either one of them. But for the sake of this district I hope what's in the middle won't kill the operations of this district.

Also of note from the Advance article is Mr. Mostow's condemnation of Joe LoSchiavo.

It seems Mr. Mostow is a petty man and should avoid talking to the press because he either never gets his fact right or out and out lies. This is just the latest example which can be added to the famous "I never said we were getting rid of Kindergarten" quote. To describe Joe as a disgruntled Board member rather then a concerned member of the community highlights the Mostow pettiness. Joe has been calling for a forensic audit since the day after the Roslyn news broke. Mostow should simply look to the Board Meeting records to see that, that is the case. His lies to the press to coverup what he's saying to the communtiy, are an embrassment everytime this man is in print.

Does anyone see a pattern with this man's inability to tell the truth to the media or is it just me? I for one would like the entire district to call on the Board to override Mr. Mostow with regards to the lawyers (Murtha) and Mostow forcing them to remain silent. They know thing the public should know what they know. Forcing them to remain silent take away valuable information that the public (their true cilents, not the Board or Mostow) deserves to have. We paid for it. It is our info. This seems to be just another Mostow cover up.

agreed - and i have heard of his actions in other districts that he and musson have been to - nuff said!

[Booster Dad]

As recent as the last budget meeting I had to listen about how Joe LoSchiavo is continuing to waste taxpayer money by sending these affidavits to get rid of MOstow to the commisioner. And the district attorneys have to respond to them. As recently as last week, his request for a stay of Mostow's contract and employment was denied. Let sleeping dogs lie? Oh no, he appealed the commisioner's original decision. I didn't realize we had this extra money to play these kinds of games. I don't think Mostow is the greatest thing since sliced bread, but he's what we got. And if Joe LoSchiavo was tough enough and man enough to undermine and try to make an example of the guy in public, he should be tough enough and man enough to handle a little of it back. He's an adult, whose been on the BOE long enough to handle a little ribbing for God sakes - he doesn't need the public who thinks he's God to defend his every whim. Its pathetic. Who in the world would smile in someones' face when they continually get kicked in the shins? Not I.

well Bob, there you go again spouting off
define "these" affidavits...he petitioned the commissioner as is his legal right and obligation as a BOE member regarding what he feels are some serious issues with Mr. Mostow's contract. The Commissioner did NOT deny the hearing...he granted Mr. Mostow the right to stay on the job until the matter is adjudicated. Mr. LoSchiavo was appealing the denial of his petition for a stay. The matter is not settled. Mr. LoSchiavo is not spending a dime of the district's money, Mr. Mostow is.
And what district attorney is responding to what...LoSchiavo's affidavits? You're confused, it sounds to me. You shouldn't believe everything you hear, or think you're hearing.

As recent as the last budget meeting I had to listen about how Joe LoSchiavo is continuing to waste taxpayer money by sending these affidavits to get rid of MOstow to the commisioner. And the district attorneys have to respond to them. As recently as last week, his request for a stay of Mostow's contract and employment was denied. Let sleeping dogs lie? Oh no, he appealed the commisioner's original decision. I didn't realize we had this extra money to play these kinds of games. I don't think Mostow is the greatest thing since sliced bread, but he's what we got. And if Joe LoSchiavo was tough enough and man enough to undermine and try to make an example of the guy in public, he should be tough enough and man enough to handle a little of it back. He's an adult, whose been on the BOE long enough to handle a little ribbing for God sakes - he doesn't need the public who thinks he's God to defend his every whim. Its pathetic. Who in the world would smile in someones' face when they continually get kicked in the shins? Not I.

So its Joe's fault. Get real, all the issues you talk about would have been gone if the new July 1st Board hadn't reversed all the decisions of the prior Board. Mostow was terminated. Peggy, Tina, Colin, and the their latest flunky Christie brought him back. Why are you not criticizing them for causing these expenses. Keep drinking the kool-aid Mostow provides. Just remember (as history has shown) one day it will be poison.

And while were on the subject where have all the Booster Dads been in the past. When it came to this district you didn't care one bit. Ever been to a board meeting before this problem arose? Have you ever been in the school with the possible exception of meet the teacher night? Sitting out on one of the fields doesn't count because the purpose of school is education not sports (Joe understands that, while your Board votes to squander money on recoating the track for $50k which could have paid a teacher.) How many of you even voted. But now when it comes to your kids and your precious sports you come out of the wood work. Well you got your sports back crawl back into your hole.

[Leave Booster Alone]

First of all I'm not defending Booster Dad, Bob, or whoever it is but I am on the budget committee and I hear firsthand and see actual evidence on paper explained honestly and in lehman's term what is going on in this school district. And the perception (which I used to have) and the media (which I used to believe) is not 100% objective or accurate in my opinion. And there are no heros on that BOE. Joe LoSchiavo is certainly not one of them in my book. Noisemaker - yes. Drama king - yes. But not a hero.

Secondly, I don't know who you are but the booster club leadership with the help of dedicated volunteers - parents, teachers, young people alike - are doing more for this school district and community than what you do - which is bitch and moan and whine and degrade people anonymously on this website. Or make a fool of yourselves for the few of you who actually get up to the mic to say something (actually its pretty clear to see whose who - some of you post on this site as well. Right Larry? Right Patty?)

The mission (a successful one) is only 1/2 complete - the Booster Club is continuing to raise money and find means for children to participate in athletics - which is part of a well-rounded education, and a means for scholarship money for many of our children who graduate high school. No not to go to the NBA, or NFL, or MLB but to go to COLLEGE - which some of you posting on here with your horrible language, and bad spelling obviously never attended.


Because you have a varying opinion doesn't give you the right to tell anyone to crawl back into a hole. CRAWL THE FUCK OUT OF YOURS! Just because you're dramatic and throw your hands in the air and make noise with your prepared statements doesn't mean you're committed. I see more of a concerted effort to put on a show than anything. Save that for the Harbor Crab, and the Patchogue theater- I don't need to see it. And for all you groupies and blinded devoted followers - don't put the booster club or any other organization down for actually stepping up to the plate to provide kids with opportunities. What have you done? Oh that's right you don't have to do anything but run your stupid, loud mouths. Can't wait to hear you all get up and say the same things over and over and over again so I can laugh at you like I always do. 1/2 of you don't make sense and the other 1/2 just get up there so people can clap for you talking about things you don't know and don't give a damn about.
What a sight.

P.S. 8:30 guest - With all of these petitions, who do you think responds to them? Its the school attorneys wasting time petitioning a Commissioner who has had a 20 year professional and personal relationship with one of the school board members relatives. Think Mostow and Weeks are going anywhere - you know how the game is played in Albany. Ever hear of fighting a losing battle?

I put up the 8:32 posting and it didn't take long for me to get the desired affect. 20 minutes, nice to see if you put out the bait someone will take it.

Booster Dad out and out attacked Joe LoSchiavo so I thought I'd spin it just to see how long it took for you to become unhinged. Couldn't handle it. Thanks for proving a point.

Get off of Joe's case. Get off the high horse and stop attacking and remember turn about is fair play.

[Leave Booster Alone]

You're such a genius. PEOPLE GET ATTACKED ON THIS WEBSITE ALL THE TIME. I'm not unhinged I just think that you're brainwashed, and I feel badly for you about it. Glad I was able to provide the desired effect you were looking for. Congratulations to you, you're "simply the best."

Thanks, still unhinged.

[Leave Booster Alone]

Don't mention it, still a baffoon

Can't help it, I'm BranWashed.

[Quest]

Hey Leave Booster alone (LBA)
What boe member. and who or how is there a relationship with Mills?
Please don't tell me it's confidential. because that word has no meaning here in Pat-Med

[TO LEAVE B DAD ALONE]

FIRST OF ALL I THINK YOU HAVE YOUR "POSTER" WRONG. I READ THIS SITE WITH GREAT INTEREST AND I AM OBSERVING OTHERS COMMENTS AND ACTIONS. UNFORTUNATLY SOMETIMES THE FACTS NEED TO BE BROUGHT OUT IN THE OPEN. MINCY AND WEEKS ACTIONS ARE BEYOND BELIEF. I HAVE SAID IT BEFORE AND I WILL SAY IT AGAIN. THE KIDS SHOULD NOT HAVE TO SUFFER, HOPEFULLY NEXT YEAR AFTER THE AUDIT AND HOPEFULLY THE REPLACEMENT OF CERTAIN BOARD MEMBERS, OUR COMMUNITY CAN VOTE FOR A BUDGET THAT WILL BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF OUR COMMUNITY. AND IF GETTING UP TO THE MIKE BRINGS OUT PEOPLES CONCERNS AND VOICES AND A GROUDSWELL TO START THINGS ,LIKE A BOOSTER CLUB THEN I DID THE RIGHT THING. I COULD CARE LESS ABOUT AN APPLAUSE.

BOTTOM LINE=== $ + $ + $ + CONTROVERSY = FAILED BUDGET. I HAVE MET MANY PEOPLE WHO IF HEARING A DISCUSSIONABOUT THE DISTRICY SAY THE TAX INCREASE WAS WAY TOO HIGH, PERIOD...

[OOPS DIDNT FINISH PRIOR P]

SIGNED THE "LIGHTNING ROD."

[Booster Dad]

Prior P - in obnoxious all caps you wrote:

AND IF GETTING UP TO THE MIKE BRINGS OUT PEOPLES CONCERNS AND VOICES AND A GROUDSWELL TO START THINGS ,LIKE A BOOSTER CLUB THEN I DID THE RIGHT THING. I COULD CARE LESS ABOUT AN APPLAUSE.

So let me get this straight. You are crediting yourself and your loud mouth as the inspiration for starting the Booster Club? lol. You must be kidding. You really take yourself a lot more seriously than others do. I can be the first to tell you that what inspired the start of the Booster club was a real genuine yearning to give the kids what was taken from them by the community who voted twice to give kids a well rounded education.

I think controversy played a role in the budget going down. Weeks' taping was the only issue the public was aware of at the time the budget went down. A lot of people have posted the same sentiment that I feel - 21 SCHOOL DISTRICTS ARE ON CONTINGENCY....Over 35 failed the first time and approved a revote budget that was put up. As much as the taping issue allows you to have a scapegoat and it be someone you probably have never liked at all, its a smoke screen. As you correctly stated (which also flies against your argument) "I have met many people who if hearing a discussion about the district say the tax increase was way too high, period..."

[TO Dad]

I POST IN CAPS BECAUSE IT IS EASIER FOR ME TO SEE ANY TYPOS (EYES GETTING TOO OLD) DON'T MEAN TO "YELL!" SORRY, BUT I NEVER MEANT TO TAKE ANY CREDIT FOR YOUR "BOOSTER CLUB"NOT IN ANY WAY. KUDOS FOR YOU FOR PICKING UP THE REINS AND GOING. AFTER SPEAKING TO MANY PEOPLE OF DIVERESE AGES ABOUT THE BUDGET ISSUES, I HAVE REALIZED THAT $$$$ WAS A BIG PART WITH ALL THE CONTROVERY AS AN ADDED FACTOR. (MOSTOW'S HIRING, WEEKS, MINCY ANS THE VEILED THREATS) BUT WE CAN AGREE TO DISAGREE. KEEP UP ALL YOUR HARD WORK-THE COMMUNITY NEEDS MORE PEOPLE LIKE YOU. WHAT I MEANT BEFORE ABOUT THE GROUNDSWELL IS THAT MOST RESIDENTS DON'T EVER GO TO BOARD MEETINGS OR EVEN VOTE FOR THAT MATTER AND BY BRINGING THESE THINGS OUT IN THE PUBLIC--BROUGHT IN MORE PEOPLE WANTING ANSWERS TO THE DISTRICTS PROBLEMS.

PS. The money to resurface the track is supposedly being reimbursed, although I'm not sure from where. Smithtown choose not to resurface theirs within the recommended timeline and several years later spent 3 times as much repairing it.

You are correcct about the track. Mostow said that the district will be reimbursed with buildings and ground one-time maintenance aid that the district received. And that the application to preserve the life of the track is over two years past due and has been put off in prior years. The thinking is that the district will not want to pay for another new track because we didn't follow the recommendations from the company that put the new track down. Let us cast aspersions only and after we've become informed. I don't think this is wasteful.

You are correcct about the track. Mostow said that the district will be reimbursed with buildings and ground one-time maintenance aid that the district received. And that the application to preserve the life of the track is over two years past due and has been put off in prior years. The thinking is that the district will not want to pay for another new track because we didn't follow the recommendations from the company that put the new track down. Let us cast aspersions only and after we've become informed. I don't think this is wasteful.

So let me get this straight, the track, which went in with the installation of the football field three years ago, "is over two years past due and has been put off in prior years". That would mean it would have to be resurfaced every year. It's nice to say "Let us cast aspersions only and after we've become informed", but have you ever heard the phrase "Question authority". Get real and THINK about what Mostow is telling you. You may have information but if you don't THINK when you receive it, it is basically meaningless. It's a concept the entire commnity shoud try to apply.

On the subject of reimbursement did anyone ask him if this is dollar for dollar? Remember how we were told all the new construction was to be reimbursed. They never really explained it wasn't dollar for dollar now look at the cost it has accrued.

Nancy/Ned Negative,

I believe what he said was the application was supposed to be applied after the 1st year, and never was done. He also stated that another school district failed to do the application within the first three years, and the track had to be replaced. The cost analysis between having this application done and a completely new project is quite easy to figure out. The brand new track would be much much more costly. Its not about taking anyone's word for anything, its really a matter of relative common sense. Preserving an investment to prevent the district from having to replace it before its time to do so seems intelligent to me. But to those of you committed to causing waves, committed to throwing your energy in complaining, and conspiracies instead of meaningful progress, I could see how this could be such a huge issue for you.

We bought a track which requires an application after one year, in order to function properly over it life span and this wasn't included in the purchase price?

Why doesn't this district ever go after vendors. Let's just add this to the list which so far this year includes:
1. A new phone system which was supposed to be working with a matter of week to which we have spent thousands more to correct and for which we still paying thousands more. Why didn't Mostow the financial genius go after the phone company?
2. It was stated we have problems with the service Boces provides for computers. boces knows nothing about this and they wer never contacted in an effort to improve service. So to save $97,000 we are now spending an additional $500,000 on our own computer service department. Why didn't Mostow the financial genius go after Boces?

I know the answer to both Mostow questions. Rather then deal with the issue himself (less for him to do) he wanted an new director of technology and a full department. So we spend three quarters of a million to address vendor issues where it would have been better spent in sports and extracurricular.

Mostow buget committee never asks these questions. But they never were suppose to. This committee was co-opted by Mostow based on an idea proposed by LoSchiavo. His idea was to go through the budget and cull out these savings for the students. Mostow idea just seems to be a prose reading of the budget to his committee with no work on savings. I keep hearing how he tells the committee there are old problems which the district will have to deal with. That does nothing to the current problems we have to deal with. Outstanding bills will still be outstanding bills whether or not we spend money on personnel or give it over to support the children. What the committee is becoming is a group of sycophants who preach what Mostow says was wrong in the past not how we can find savings for the future.

Sounds Like Good Politics on the part of Mostow

That's what we need more politics.

Maybe we should concentrate on restoring programs for the kids instead of politics.

Here is a simple question, what has this committee accomplished.

If all this committee was to be, is Mostow's reading of the budget and his litany of complaints he should held his meetings in the High School auditorium for the community to hear. At least the Advance could have reported on it. Instead we are subject to hearing dribs and drabs from the committee, on this site.

Mostow said he wanted a small group so they could get something accomplished. That is why he closed the meeting.

The net output to date is ZERO.

The reality is, this was a great political smoke screen. He never wanted input and was able to hire his administrator and computer people over the summer with nobody looking. That's just one case, what other spending is he making which we will be unable to repeal. The committee was supposed to do something. It did. It provided Mostow great cover and it sound as if you appreciate politics over substance. If there is more like you out there this district is doomed.

You're a jackass. Just wanted to let you know. The committee has met what three or four times? What were you expecting it to accomplish - what should it have done do you think? In addition to meeting with us, and answering all of our questions in an environment that enables dialogue not rude obnoxious people who are supposed to be parents interrupting meetings and preventing people in the audience from hearing what's going on. I have had EVERY SINGLE question I had about the district answered and explained no holds bar. I hated Mostow in the beginning but I have grown to really appreciate and respect the tough stances he's taken - because he's had the chance to explain a lot of things to me. Some of you are just looking for the negative, you're just looking to fight because you like to hear yourself talk and you think you're someone's hero. I got to tell you - you're trite and petty - and for your information, since the BOE only meets once a month now - Mostow is using those meeting dates just to take questions from the community - so then you and your friends who want to yell and point fingers and look out the negative in everything can be on stage for the Advance. Since you'll be there and be involved then I guess there will be progress since the three hours a meeting I spend at this budget committee isn't producing enough results for you.

Before you accuse others of appreciating politics over substance - what substance do you creat to this conversation? In my opinion, granted it was slow and long overdue, Mostow has really started to prove himself. Anytime you want to be part of the solution in bringing this district together - it would be greatly appreciated.

That's what we need more politics.

Maybe we should concentrate on restoring programs for the kids instead of politics.

Here is a simple question, what has this committee accomplished.

If all this committee was to be, is Mostow's reading of the budget and his litany of complaints he should held his meetings in the High School auditorium for the community to hear. At least the Advance could have reported on it. Instead we are subject to hearing dribs and drabs from the committee, on this site.

Mostow said he wanted a small group so they could get something accomplished. That is why he closed the meeting.

The net output to date is ZERO.

The reality is, this was a great political smoke screen. He never wanted input and was able to hire his administrator and computer people over the summer with nobody looking. That's just one case, what other spending is he making which we will be unable to repeal. The committee was supposed to do something. It did. It provided Mostow great cover and it sound as if you appreciate politics over substance. If there is more like you out there this district is doomed.

OK - great then, when is the next meeting that I can attend? thanks in advance.

So your special and the only one who deserves answers. How nice for you.

It would be nice for everyone to have their questions answered. Tell Mostow to have it on the front lawn for everone to hear.

The committe was suppose to look for soulitons not to be a question and answer session. Once again what have you accomplished. Nothing.

I've been to these committe meetings as well and also came into the room not being one of Mostow's greatest fans, though I am willing to listen and weigh what I hear and read in that room. The committee is made of people from across the political spectrum and there is a real effort made to keep the conversation centered on the budget and away from the school board and the cult of casting blame. It's difficult at times as Mr. Mostow claims much of the district's financial records are in disarray and are being pieced together for a complete picture of where we stand. If this is true, as soon as the forensic audit is held, all the pieces will fall in place.

In the meantime, we, as a group, are looking to begin working up budget recommendations for the 05-06 fiscal year. We are in there to provide for the kids as best we can. Personally, I am looking forward to lerning more about the business procedures Mr. Mostow will be instituting to provide checks and balances and properly accounting for our dollars.

The first meeting night, I was feeling some trepidation that we were going to be "played" by Mr. Mostow. What has impressed me is Mr. Mostow's business sense, his knowledge of technology, and the astute way he works the crowd. This is a working group and we're still feeling our way around and identifying areas of issue. So be patient, not so quick to judge what you know nothing about.

Unless and until Mr. Mostow is relieved of his duties, we will be working with him as he is the Superintendent for the Patchogue-Medford School District and we'll get every dollar's worth of value out of him while we can.

Both you and the previous poster seem to be engaged in a pointless discussion about the merits of Mostow. It doesn't matter.

There is a simple question, however through out this diatribe. Did the committee find and savings which could have been applied to sports and extracurricular activities? If they didn't and all they were was a sound board, then the whole point of the committee was meaningless. School starts in two week.

I'm trying to make sense of your "question" about what the committee did or did not do. Help me understand what you mean by " the committee find and savings which could have been applied to sports..."

there had been discussion about some of the recommendations Mr. Mostow was going to make regarding dropping some bathroom monitors and such shifting about of charges so as to make funding possible. There was division of opinion about if the money was indeed available and if so, should it be applied to restoring these programs or restoring teachers or to reduce deficit. The discussion got quite heated at times, just as it will tomorrow night at the BOE meeting. Mr. Mostow will have to present and defend his recommendations to the public at that time.

Although school starts in two weeks, nothing is pointless about the community being involved in seeing where our money is spent and beginning work to assemble a budget which will pass the voter's test next Spring.

Your diatribe is.

I'm trying to make sense of your "question" about what the committee did or did not do. Help me understand what you mean by " the committee find and savings which could have been applied to sports..."

there had been discussion about some of the recommendations Mr. Mostow was going to make regarding dropping some bathroom monitors and such shifting about of charges so as to make funding possible. There was division of opinion about if the money was indeed available and if so, should it be applied to restoring these programs or restoring teachers or to reduce deficit. The discussion got quite heated at times, just as it will tomorrow night at the BOE meeting. Mr. Mostow will have to present and defend his recommendations to the public at that time.

Although school starts in two weeks, nothing is pointless about the community being involved in seeing where our money is spent and beginning work to assemble a budget which will pass the voter's test next Spring.

Your diatribe is.

You failed to get my point.

From Websters: diatribe n. a lengthy and abusive verbal attack

Nothing I said comes even close to an attack. I was merely cutting through all the vindictiveness the TWO of you seem to have to get down to the kernal of a question. I'll repeat it. If there is no answer so be it. if you can show me the lengthy and abusive portions of of my question I'd like to see it.

The question was:
"Did the committee find and savings which could have been applied to sports and extracurricular activities? If they didn't and all they were was a sound board, then the whole point of the committee was meaningless."

[God you're obnoxious]

If you simply go back and read the posts, you will learn that money that was found by the reduction of lavatory aides as well as a credit from insurance coverage that was being paid for employees who no longer work for the district (as a result of an internal audit by Musson) will provide an equal percentage of money to fund sports and to go towards extracurricular programs. I believe approximately 90k will go to the 380,000 needed for extracurricular and 220k will go to the 1.3MM needed for sports. It comes to be about a quarter of the money raised to go to extacurricular and almost 20% for sports.

Was at the meetign last night. What if the district found money for the extra students to go to BOCES. How do you ascertain which of the extra 40 students (at 10,000 dollar a student) goes? Do you do a lottery? lol. Can you imagine?

Also, I didn't know that there were 50 students going and that is the same number that went this year, and more than the year before. For some reason, I thought the whole program had been scrapped completely. Still I"m sure doesn't make that dad very happy which is understandable. What about a lottery? Any other suggestions?

I don't think money was "found" but shifted around. We live in an era of diminished resources. There's only so much to go around. We get football but people lose jobs. Kids plan their lives around receiving vocational training to send them into our community with job skills but lose out to the mob mentality. I mean, what is more important-50 more kids getting educated in their chosed field of endeavor or seeing 90 kids turn out on the playing field for JV and Varsity sports?

That's a "tough decision", Bob...

seems to me that Dad who spoke up regarding BOCES has a good lawsuit brewing.

[SCHOOL WATCHER]

Could not attend meeting. Please inform me, were there many citizens there? Who said what? What was the boards reactions to any statements and did anybody besides the Boces dad have anything to say? (ffigured out his situation and i do believe he has spoken out before)

There's no way anyone, super, board, Bob, ANYONE, can justify having a fall sports season while those forty students have lost out on the EDUCATION they are entitled to........not to mention all the kids that lost elective classes and are now facing multiple study halls in their schedules. Our priorities are so screwed up!

you haven't answered the question. If there isn't 400,000 plus dollars to send BOCES kids (1) where does it come from? Between sports and SAFE donations its between 280-300k - so you tell those parents and kids who've been fundraising their asses off never you mind. And then you still have 10-12 of the 40 kids who can't go to BOCES. So (2) how do you decipher who goes and who doesn't. (3) Don't you further infuriate the 10-12 who will be overlooked twice.

Did you know that EVERY year practically kids are turned away from BOCES because the district can't afford to send all who participate. Including sometimes paying for kids to attend who don't even complete the full sequence. Last year when the district increased the number sent to 50, more than 40 kids were turned away based on first come first served. This isn't new. It May not be right...but its been this way all along. Maybe BOCES shouldn't be charging us these outrageous costs!

BOCES is one year not two retard.

FYI.......some of the original 50 have already dropped out. I believe $220000 was given to sports and $90000 to other extras. That's enough for 31 kids. Taking into account the dropouts, you are probably only talking four or five kids. If Mr. Mostow came up with $310000 already, I have complete faith he could come up with another $40 or $50000. Also, do we get state aid back on the $10000 tuition for using the cooperative BOCES? Gee, I wonder. I wonder how the sports parents would feel if their child was being rejected from one of these programs. I think even they would have to agree that their education should come first.

for the record don't forget to blame the SAFE parents and those parents partcipating in the restoration of music and extracurricular programs too for denying BOCES children the opportunity to get their vocational training since its our fault for stepping up to provide children with a well rounded education. There are no winners when a budget goes down. I suppose we'll all have to feel the strain.

Believe me, I don't blame any of the parents out there trying to raise the money. My children participate and I've attended the meetings and contributed myself to both sides. I do blame Mr. Mostow and the board though for distributing that $310000 to those organizations rather than putting it toward the educational programs first. The unfortunate fact is that had he have given the $220 to BOCES tuition or for that matter, kept the bathroom aides, there would not have been fall sports. The fundraising just wasn't enough. I hope eliminating those bathroom aides isn't going to come back and bite Mr. Mostow in the butt. The last thing the district needs is another lawsuit.

[WHAT ABOUT BOCES???]

At the board meeting last night, they stated that it cost $10,000 for each student to go to BOCES. For those 40 that are being turned away, that would be about $400,000. NOW, what they also stated is that it would only cost about $130,000 or so after funding and BOCES kickbacks to send these kids. If I did understand the board correctly, then I believe that the $310,000 that was given to sports and SAFE should be split 3 ways. This would allow for those students to go to BOCES. Unfortunately, in order to send children to BOCES, it cannot be fundraised. It must come from the school. Therefore, sharing of the suddenly "founded" money would help.

THE MORAL OF THE STORY IS...IF THEY DON'T GIVE THE MONEY TO SPORTS, THERE WILL BE NO SPORTS AND FOOTBALL (EVERYONES MAIN CONCERN!).

WHERE DO OUR PRIORITIES LYE??????? :?

[Booster Dad]

Why are we blaming this all on the sports program!? The music group is getting a bigger percentage. 220,000 dollars out of 1.3 million is less than 20%. The donation to SAFE is a quarter of the cost of their total fundraising goal.

Every meeting it is pointed out that the district doesn't see any of the aid on anything until the following year. So even if it was split in three ways it still wouldn't fund the 31, 32, 33 kids because it requires over 300,000 dollars to send them. And that money is due them now. What are we goingn to go further in the red to get 200k back after the next school year? Not very prudent if you ask me.

nobody asked you

Please don't run for the board of ed, Booster Dad! Have you ever seen that show on Nickelodeon called Arnold......is your head shaped like his?? LOL LOL If you can justify throwing one football pass before getting those kids into BOCES, then your education must've been lacking as well. If the district had people budgeting from year to year the proper way, we would be using last year's aid for this year's kids, but I guess that's a moot point.

Please don't run Booster Dad.
I don't think it'll look too good if you couldn't get your "Mostow kneepads" off before you get onto the podium in your gym outfit.
Did Mostow hit your tonsils yet?

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAA :lol:

Why are we blaming this all on the sports program!? The music group is getting a bigger percentage. 220,000 dollars out of 1.3 million is less than 20%. The donation to SAFE is a quarter of the cost of their total fundraising goal.

Booster Dad you know better then to make this out and out lie.

Last year the Extracurricular program received $408,765 and Sports received $1,112,960. A combined total of $1,534,725. Do the math. Extracurricular got 27% to sport,s 73%, of the total after school activity budget. You know that.

This year sports received $225,000 to extracurricular's $83,000, exactly a 73% to 27% split. You know that.

Facts are stubborn things, but they are what they are. The district is providing back these funds in the exact percentage they were applied last year.

Personally I say pay Boces first since that is a true education requirement. Since 2/3 is reimbursable they require $133,333 to fund the $400,000 for the extra 40 students. This leaves $174,977 for sports and extracurricular from the available district dollars. At the same 73% to 27% split sports should have received $127,733 to extracurricular’s $47,243.

And also now that you tried to deflect attention away from sports, why that football is getting funding from the district and softball gets none. Get your own house clean before looking in others

Well Booster Dad (Bob) looks like you got caught in a lie. However with a mentor like Mostow what more could we expect.

What a terrible person Booster Dad must be leading an effort to revitalize a program that was cut out of the budget after a failed contingency budget. I notice that SAFE organizers don't get any criticism for taking the chunk of change away from BOCES. Let's just continue to demean people who shut their traps and got off their behinds and put their talking into action. He takes the blunt of criticism from all of you - and no one wants to talk about the parents who even now are still sitting on their butts doing nothing!? All this crap about who gets what and why this one didn't get that but everyone forgets this would be all for naught if parents who care about keeping these programs got themselves to the voting booth and voted for their children's future! How futile this all is.

I beleive the criticism he got came after he said in effect "don't look at the money spent on sports when it comes to having a lack of funds for Boces, but rather LOOK AT SAFE THEY'RE MORE TO BLAME". Then he lied about the percentage. So if he kept his mouth shut criticism wouldn't be directed his way. If he likes to place his foot in his mouth this forum is certainly the place to do it.

Never would it occur to him to blame Mostow or the Board but everyone else not related to sports they're fair targets.

In case you haven't noticed....the blame game hasn't accomplished a damn thing. Just incites more chaos. And I wasn't blaming SAFE. I was just wondering why the booster club is being attacked for getting money - and that football and sports is why kids can't go to BOCES - BUT... no one talks about the fact that extracurricular and music got a donation too. I feel as if it was very plainly put - and to me the only way you could interpret that to assume I was attacking the SAFE organizers is that you were willfully trying to spin what I said. I apologize if that's what it sounded like though if I worded it any other way...I have a profound respect and appreciation for that group as I do mine.

I didn't lie about the percentages. The guest who posted at 8:37 should've gone back to sleep instead of posting on here lol. You can not add up the contributions for sports and programs and figure out their precentage unless both programs equaled the same amount of money YOU IDIOT!!!! Sports costs a lot more than music. The membership fees for sports, officiating, and the stipends for coaching are substantially more in every school district that has sports.

One happens to cost over 750,000 more than the other. How can you equate percentages without noting that difference.

2005-2006 CONTINGENCY:
TOTAL COST OF SPORTS: 1.2 MILLION DOLLARS
TOTAL COST OF EXTRACURRICULAR: 419,680 DOLLARS

DISTRICT DONATION TO SPORTS: 220,000/1.2 MILLION
DISTRICT DONATION TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 83,000/420,000

To calculate percentage: Divide the donation to the district by the cost of the program and multiply by 100.

PERCENTAGE TO SPORTS: 19%
PERCENTAGE TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 20%

SO WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT!? You can't use the total number and divy up percentages because the cost of both programs are not of equal value.
I hope you don't help your children with their math homework. I can't believe I'm being called a liar by people who can't even calculate percentages equally.

Go get MATH FOR DUMMIES at Borders before you criticize me!

[Booster Dad]

I forgot to pen my name as the author of the last post.

MINCY=MINCEMEAT. LOSER ....... :oops:

In case you haven't noticed....the blame game hasn't accomplished a damn thing. Just incites more chaos. And I wasn't blaming SAFE. I was just wondering why the booster club is being attacked for getting money - and that football and sports is why kids can't go to BOCES - BUT... no one talks about the fact that extracurricular and music got a donation too. I feel as if it was very plainly put - and to me the only way you could interpret that to assume I was attacking the SAFE organizers is that you were willfully trying to spin what I said. I apologize if that's what it sounded like though if I worded it any other way...I have a profound respect and appreciation for that group as I do mine.

I didn't lie about the percentages. The guest who posted at 8:37 should've gone back to sleep instead of posting on here lol. You can not add up the contributions for sports and programs and figure out their precentage unless both programs equaled the same amount of money YOU IDIOT!!!! Sports costs a lot more than music. The membership fees for sports, officiating, and the stipends for coaching are substantially more in every school district that has sports.

One happens to cost over 750,000 more than the other. How can you equate percentages without noting that difference.

2005-2006 CONTINGENCY:
TOTAL COST OF SPORTS: 1.2 MILLION DOLLARS
TOTAL COST OF EXTRACURRICULAR: 419,680 DOLLARS

DISTRICT DONATION TO SPORTS: 220,000/1.2 MILLION
DISTRICT DONATION TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 83,000/420,000

To calculate percentage: Divide the donation to the district by the cost of the program and multiply by 100.

PERCENTAGE TO SPORTS: 19%
PERCENTAGE TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 20%

SO WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT!? You can't use the total number and divy up percentages because the cost of both programs are not of equal value.
I hope you don't help your children with their math homework. I can't believe I'm being called a liar by people who can't even calculate percentages equally.

Go get MATH FOR DUMMIES at Borders before you criticize me!

To Booster Dad,

Speaking of using MATH FOR DUMMIES let me pick up a copy for you.

First there is a zero value in the contingency budget of 05/06 for all After School activities (not the numbers you use). So the only values available are last years. Let do the analysis using your math.

2004-2005 BUDGET:
TOTAL COST OF SPORTS: $1,125,960 (not 1.2 MILLION DOLLARS)
TOTAL COST OF EXTRACURRICULAR: $408,765 (not 419,680 DOLLARS)

DISTRICT DONATION TO SPORTS: 225,000/1,125,960
DISTRICT DONATION TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 83,000/408,765

To calculate percentage: Divide the donation to the district by the cost of the program and multiply by 100.

PERCENTAGE TO SPORTS: 20%
PERCENTAGE TO EXTRACURRICULAR: 20%

This is exactly the same. Since last years pie was split 73% to 27% for the total of all after school activities, and you give back in the same ratio, the percentage will always be the same. The district is being fair to these two groups (although a legitimate discussion can be had if they are being fair to Boces).

Stop being condescending with your MATH FOR DUMMIES quote and develop some mathematical skills yourself. If you use the right numbers everything will work out. I hope your not the best numeric mind on Mostows budget committee (and that comment is a fair shot after calling me an idiot, I know my math).

But the most important question of the day is this. If you felt it was wrong for the public to blame sports for the lack of Boces why in the world would YOU START a discussion to bring in the extracurricular activities. Is your solution to being picked on, pick on someone else? Does that make it okay?

[Booster Dad]

I'M NOT PICKING ON ANYONE. I'm simply pointing out the prejudice in blaming sports on taking funding away from education.

Hey, Booster Dad......tell the truth! How did you and the "Vinnys" vote? Or did you even vote at all?????? Public Info!!

There's unfortunate finger pointing Booster Dad and you have done a great service to this community by stepping forward and making a difference.
The problem is, how many of these athletes are going to make any money at sports? How many are going to participate in organized sports after high school? How many from Pat-Med will go to division I schools? How many will go pro from these Division I schools? The pyramid gets awfully small at the top. Name 5 pro football, lacrosse or baseball players that have come from Pat-Med schools over the last 5 years. Name 5 that are still playing today.
I don't really know. Maybe you can name these kids. I don't think so. Most are still talking about "glory days" while thinking they should have learned a trade instead of how to tackle.
How many of the kids who attend BOCES classes will take that knowledge to the workplace and put food on their families tables? How many will build your next house, or wire it or plumb it or fix your computer?
The sports programs are important but they these athletes will not be able to support their families with knowledge they receive from your between quarter pep talks.
Will team participation build character? Yes it will but it won't be able to pay for gas at $2.60 per gallon.
I again have to thank you for stepping forward and getting this money for the schools I just personally feel your priorities are in the wrong place and you're possibly just reliving your "glory days" through your kids, like most other youth coaches I've been personally involved with.

[Well put]

EXCELLENT POINTS RAISED HERE.

it's not like we're allowed to do fundraising for BOCES kids. The sports and extracurricular fundraising took on a life of it's own and woe to anybody who raised any objections or questions as to the legitimacy of the District "donating" or re-allocating funds in that direction rather than providing education to kids ready to make their way in the workplace and be productive members of our community.

I'd LOVE to see a campaign to "adopt" a BOCES kid...

The BOCES kids Need to go to thier programs. To deny them that opportunity is outrageous.

The BOCES kids Need to go to thier programs. To deny them that opportunity is outrageous.

nobody is denying anyone anything other than sports, boces kids can get inh line and wait for th limited spots - extra ciriks can raise money like th sports dads/moms

its as simple as that

YOU DON'T FUNDRAISE TO EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN!! IT IS THEIR RIGHT TO BE EDUCATED!

The BOCES kids Need to go to thier programs. To deny them that opportunity is outrageous.

nobody is denying anyone anything other than sports, boces kids can get inh line and wait for th limited spots - extra ciriks can raise money like th sports dads/moms

its as simple as that

Wait in line, are you kidding? That's the same thing as saying your kid should wait in line for math, or science, or social studies, etc.

Your thinking is flawed and Mostow's lack of concern about this subject at the board meeting was astounding. HIS OWN LAWYERS said by law the district can provide vocational training either in house or at Boces. The district decides what type of vocational training will be offered, but once offered you can not put a quota on it. BY LAW it is an all or nothing proposition.

First, what we have here is some students going to Boces for medical training. This sets the up the condition of the district deciding what will be offered. By paying for even just one student to go for medical training they have decided this is what the district offers.

Second, because they have said medical training will be offered they can not pick and choose who will go. All those who want the training MUST go.

Keep in mind Sports and Extracurricular Activities were non-contingent expenses. That’s why they were cut. Providing an education (Boces is that) is a contingent expense and must be provided by the district even if cuts must be made elsewhere to provide it.

Mostow brought on his lawyers; he should listen to what they are saying. It was clear to anyone at the meeting who chose to listen only to the lawyers and not Mostow’s spin.

I would tell the Boces father sue now and get an injunction against sending anyone to Boces if that what it takes to bring this item to the top of the PAT-MED-HEAP.

Don't leave the Board out of this discussion. They voted to transfer this money. Granted in the past they have had follow-up votes, to change previous votes, but I can't see this happening. By changing meetings to once a month they apparently don't want opportunities to correct their mistakes.

The next meeting is September 26th. They must beleive this will be a smooth start to the new year without anything needing their attention (like funding Boces). It's either that or they don't want to help the students of this district in which case they should resign.

BOCES dads and moms should most certainly contact a lawyer. For sure the district would lose that hearing and be made to pay for the BOCES tuition. And the district will just have to find the funds to pay for it. They should get together and find a lawyer looking for some good publicity, and I would almost bet he would do it pro bono.

Yeah that would be a great idea - we can skim off our already lean education another half of a million.

You haven't been listening we are talking about $133,333, which should have gone to education first before non course related activities.

Exactly.......can people possibly be so dense?

WHAT DOES THE 133,OOO REPRESENT? WHAT FIGURE. BREAK IT DOWN FOR ME AGAIN.

WHAT DOES THE 133,OOO REPRESENT? WHAT FIGURE. BREAK IT DOWN FOR ME AGAIN.

It cost $10,000 to send a student to Boces. To send 40 more would cost $400,000. However 2/3 of what it cost to use Boces is reimbursed by the state that leaves $133,333

HOWEVER, when does the district receive the state aid? Not until the following year. So wouldn' that be 2007!?

You are picking this apart in order to stick up for your huddles.
Find the way Mostow the same way you found 1/4 million.
These kids deserve the BOCES education. They will take this knowledge to the streets a lot more than a "drop & roll"!
Are you an education administrator or a cheerleader?
Take off the skirt and put on some pants!

[PM Educator]

Take off your skirt and put on some pants?

You're children must be so proud.

In any event, take your raging campaign for BOCES to the community who voted down the budget that included the increase in enrollment for them to go.

And for the record I"m not an administrator I"m a teacher. And when I'm deciding on whether to take off my skirt or put on my pants why don't you get some class and decorum. Toodles.

Another teacher who just cares about the $$ not the kids in need.

PM Educator.....why so defensive? Was someone addressing you specifically? In any event, I hope my children never have you. Your spelling, grammar and punctuation leave ALOT to be desired.

[PM Educator]

Oh well I hope I never have your children...they probably have lice like the rest of the kids in this school district. Oh and before you blast off on my spelling and grammar.... a lot is two words. Toodles.

Wow, you are a bitter person. I feel sorry for you. It is very unfortunate to think that you are educating our children, although I think that's a stretch of the imagination, by what you are saying and the way you are acting on here. I hope you get some help with dealing with your anger.

Wow, I don't really give a hoot what you think of me. You'll have to pay my wages and stipends whether you like me or not. Bitter? Angry? I didn't mean to come across that way...I must be mistaken b/c I thought that was a prerequisite to being on this site. Read through it nothing but trash and nonsens posted on here. Nothing gets accomplished - just everyone gets to anonymously kick the crap out of each other. Don't you dare chastise me for being nasty. Go back and read what you have contributed to this trash. And when you do that, I hope you get some in getting a life.

[Are you for real???]

Read through it nothing but trash and nonsens posted on here. Nothing gets accomplished - just everyone gets to anonymously kick the crap out of each other. Don't you dare chastise me for being nasty. Go back and read what you have contributed to this trash. And when you do that, I hope you get some in getting a life.

PM EDUCATOR...I am a PM Educator and if you truly are what you say that you are, then you are a PATHETIC individual. You said that "Nothing but trash and nonsense posted on here." Well, you are contributing to that and you should be ashamed of yourself! You are an embarassment to our profession... :(

[PM Educator]

First of all, learn how to spell embarrassment.

Second of all, you must be one of the disciples of our wonderul fearless union leader Andy. I am an estranged member (involuntary as it is) of the PMCT so perhaps that's why I'm such an embarrassment. Because I don't prioritize my pay checks and perks over education...because I don't believe we should be engaging in politics when we should be engaging in how we are going to meet the strain of passing state mandate after mandate. Then perhaps our district will be better.

[Are you for real???]

Hey PM EDUCATOR...you sure are arrogant. Since when does knowing how to spell a word make you the end all be all??? Check the time that I wrote the post. Next time I'll be sure to run a spell check before posting. :lol:

I also think that you are mistaken...THIS DISTRICT WOULD BE BETTER OFF WITHOUT TEACHERS LIKE YOU IN IT!!!!!!!!!!!

PM Educator is probably NOT a teacher...just a feeble ploy at trying to get the community mad at teachers or even worse to try to divert attention from the real issues.....I wonder what those are??????

[TapeGate]

I think PM Educator is an ass - but the last poster is seriously mistaken if they don't think that among the real issues and there are many...teacher's - their compensation and stipends are an issue. That's predominantly wit the money being raised is being used for.

[Fire Hazzard?]

Is there a problem at S. Ocean Jr High with the Fire Dept. A fireman who went to an alarm at the school told me you can't get out of the third floor if there was a fire!! Only one way down!! Who is hiding what?

I think you mean the fourth floor, which only goes up through the center of the building. There is only one staircase up to it, but there is a scary fire escape on the back. It is a little scary, but I think it serves the purpose. Lots of buildings only have one fire escape. It's never come up as a problem before, has it?

[S. Ocean Fire Hazard!!]

It is under construction and they took old fire escape down. Now there is only one way out.

Oh, then that indeed sounds like a fire hazard. Has anyone contacted the fire department?

The fire dept. is the one who went to the district. I don't know if they repaired it. My kid goes there, so it better be.

[Fire Hazard?? S. Ocean]

The fire dept. is the one who went to the district. I don't know if they repaired it. My kid goes there, so it better be.

What does Mostow say about it?

[football]

He says it will not affect the football team or our field and track so do not worry about it

A potential issue with there being a fire hazard, and instead of calling Keith Anderson head of facilities or the superintendent's office we debate the validity of this problem on the report. God help us.

Before you start thinking that someone is hiding something or someone is lying to you. It is the 4th floor which is under construction and will not be use by anyone other the the construction guys. All exists work all windows work all alarms work. Hope I helped calm you mind.

whose this new AP at south ocean? where does she come from? what's her story?

I hear she has no experiance and is just a filler in training.

[Yay Ms. Proschia]

you hear incorrectly. She was an Assistant Principal (a highly regarded one at that) before being recruited by the district to come to Patchogue Medford because she has a good reputation for having a good balance of being a disciplinarian and having compassion.

So she has experience.
And what is a filler in training? Ms. Cush was rude, condescending to parents and teachers. Anything is an improvement.

I liked mrs cush. when my kid EFFed UP and got OSS - I felt like she was giving me the straight scoop on the situation.

When that gang of kids came after school one day to start the fight/riot, she was right there to call the police and protect the kids. The only thing that i didnt like about her seemd to be her attachment to that Manny dude. I caught them in that new parking lot one night!!!! they should have moved that to somewhjere OFF school grounds.

other than that (and her dog like looks) - she was awesome - where did she go?

what are you mean by "caught them"

use your imagination and then expand on it from there. thats what most pachhogians do anyway.

i am proud to not be a patchogian. Proud to not be a part of the groundswell of fallacy and rumor thank you very much. Is this a fact or more of the same - continued degradation and disparaging of others?

you are an idiot - first of all - the post said "caught" and then the next post said to use your imagination. At no time did I say anything else. Now you ask "is this a fact?"

Is what a fact? You people are such losers!

I only wrote three sentences and you're having trouble understanding what I'm asking. (sigh). Let me try to break it down in a more simple direct way so you can get the understanding you need.

When I asked is this a fact....I was asking

Is it a fact that they (they being Cush and Sanzone) were caught rendevouzing in the new parking lot. That was what I was asking is a fact?

I only wrote three sentences and you're having trouble understanding what I'm asking. (sigh). Let me try to break it down in a more simple direct way so you can get the understanding you need.

When I asked is this a fact....I was asking

Is it a fact that they (they being Cush and Sanzone) were caught rendevouzing in the new parking lot. That was what I was asking is a fact?

Thats my point!!!! I caught up to them in the parking lot..they were discussing something. why would you make somehting more of it by suggesting it was a rendevou?

NO NO NO NO NO NO. Don't you dare even try it. Don't you dare act like I'm starting a rumor. You have a lot of nerve! You directly implied that there was something more of a professional nature going on when you wrote in YOUR WORDS

The only thing that i didnt like about her seemd to be her attachment to that Manny dude. I caught them in that new parking lot one night!!!! they should have moved that to somewhjere OFF school grounds.

I don't know if you're bipolar or unaware of how you get messages across but you conveniently neglected to point out that they were discussing something. Why would they have to move a "discussion" off school grounds? By saying they should move somethign off school grounds you were implying they were doing something not relevant or related to school business - of a personal nature - perhaps even inappropriate.

You're a typical patchoggian alright - spinning your own words against yourself. You must make yourself dizzy.

I purposely posted it the way I did to see what patchogue idiot would try to make something of it. You took the bait...HOOK, LINE AND SINNKER - and yes - In typical Patchogue fashion!!!

Thanks for proving my point.

After reading the previous posts,I wonder-A piece of ass, or a piece of cash? Who cares what they were doing, the end result is what matters. And the end result was not professional or good for the residents of par med. We are all suffering because of it. :cry: