POSITRACTION: Alzheimer’s maybe treatable?
2018-Apr-15https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/alzheimers-gene-is-neutralized-in-human-brain-cells-for-
the-first-time/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_medium=weekly_mailout&utm_source=11-04-2018
Alzheimer’s Gene is Neutralized in Human Brain Cells for the First Time
By McKinley Corbley - Apr 10, 2018
*** begin quote ***
Scientists have just made a revolutionary breakthrough in the battle against Alzheimer’s.
Instead of experimenting on mice with dicey results, this team of researchers went straight to testing human brain cells – and their studies have been proven successful.
Scientists at the Gladstones Institute in California managed to identify the gene that caused Alzheimer’s disease. Not only that, but they also managed to neutralize the gene so that it did not lead to Alzheimer’s development.
The dangerous cell in question is called the apoE4 gene. Having one copy of the gene reportedly doubles a person’s chances of developing brain damage. Having two copies increases the risk by 12-fold.
This is because the gene produces a certain kind of mutated protein that damages human brain cells. By using stem cells to correct the gene, scientists were able to halt production of the deadly protein, eliminate all signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and improve cell survival and function.
Now that the treatment has been proven successful in human cells, the researchers plan on applying the same treatment to human patients in the near future.
*** end quote ***
Now this is great news.
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JLINKEDIN: Colonna, Robert M. [MC1989] Section Manager at Con Edison
2018-Apr-15https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-m-colonna-pmp-657636161/
Colonna, Robert M. [MC1989]
Section Manager at Con Edison
Greater New York City Area
Almost 29 years of experience in Operations, Engineering and Project Management with Consolidated Edison Company of New York. I have held numerous positions of leadership in Steam Operations and Central Engineering, managing operating groups at the East River Generating Station as the Technical and Maintenance manager, managing a team of Engineers as the Project Engineering manager in Central Engineering, managing the Environmental Health & Safety group in Steam Distribution and currently managing the Quality Assurance group in Gas Operations.
I am certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) with diverse experience. At Con Edison my project management experience includes working as a Project Manager for the sale of Electric Generating Assets, on a major Repowering project at the East River Generating Station and managing the 2016 Electric and Gas Rate Case submittals.
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JNEWS: Boivin, Benjamin [MC2009] new Creative Copywriter at Liaison Intl
2018-Apr-15https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-boivin-04833616/
Boivin, Benjamin
Creative Copywriter at Liaison International
Albany, New York
"Mr. Versatility" was a name bestowed to me on a youth basketball plaque during our 6th grade youth basketball awards night. Never the self-proclaimed best defender, shooter or dribbler on the team, but I was always talented and enthusiastic enough to fill any diverse position.
My nickname in my short-lived basketball career has transcended into my professional career and it is the person who I aspire to be. A person of eclectic interests that is both approachable for problems and confident for solutions.
I have worn many hats since beginning my professional career, and each experience has provided me with the knowledge to shine in the next position. From media buying and selling to college level recruitment, I have obtained the skills to learn quickly, execute efficiently, and grow professionally.
Optimistically, I look to use my most underrated skill, creativity, to assist your company, while remaining versatile in the challenges that present themselves. Organizational leadership is what I currently specialize in and have proudly obtained my Master's degree in that field to further my expertise.
Specialties: Creative writing, editing, counseling, advertising, team-building and brainstorming, recruiting, higher education, financial aid, mentoring, event coordinating, public speaking, stand-up comedy, social media, training, and organizational leadership.
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-15 @ 12:01
JOBIT: Patrick, Robert M. [MC???? RIP] 2018-Apr-13
2018-Apr-15http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Robert-M.-Patrick-106012446
Robert M. Patrick
February 19, 1935 - April 13, 2018
Fort Myers, Florida
Robert was born on February 19, 1935 and passed away on Friday, April 13, 2018.
Robert was a resident of Fort Myers, Florida at the time of passing.
He was a graduate of Manhattan College and Columbia University where he received both a BA and BS Degree.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 ( www.hopehospice.org Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, 239-936-0555.
Send Flowers
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Patrick, Robert M. [MC???? RIP]
Guestbook: http://www.tributes.com/condolences/leave_memory/106012446
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-15 @ 09:06
Dear John,
I do not find anything in my 'stuff' Robert.
May He Rest In Peace.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
Patrick, Robert M. [MC???? RIP]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-15 @ 23:01
MNEWS: Alma Mater has some student inventions
2018-Apr-15http://cbs6albany.com/news/local/4th-annual-create-symposium-to-showcase-student-inventions
4th Annual CREATE Symposium to showcase student inventions
by Heather Kovar — Sunday, April 15th 2018
*** begin quote ***
New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID) is hosting it's fourth annual CREATE Symposium Wednesday, April 25th. The event showcases prototypes of inventions by undergrad and graduate students that help improve the lives of those with disabilities.
New this year, students will compete for prizes of $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000 for their inventions, as judged by professional engineers and rehabilitation personnel.
Brian Bateman from NYSID and Valerie Andreoli from Schenectady ARC joined Heather Kovar on CBS 6 to talk about how the inventions help the lives of people with disabilities.
*** and ***
Manhattan College and Lifespire
• Labeling Machine – Peels the backing off a label, making it ready to stick after a trigger is pressed, increasing productivity.
• Tremor Stabilizing Glove – Reduces hand tremors for an individual that packs boxes of products, increasing productivity and timeliness.
*** end quote ***
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-15 @ 19:34
JEMAIL: Flynn, Bro. Gregory (MC1957) relays an email in
2018-Apr-15Dear Friends of Addis Hope (I hope),
Once again, I must resort to mass mailing to ask your assistance. This does not include those of you who have already been donor partners. Here in Addis Ababa there are recurring problems with electricity and the internet. My good friend Jim Casey has graciously agreed to do the mailing.
For those of you not familiar with my background, I first came to Ethiopia 49 years ago. During that time, I have taught in two FSC and one Daughters of Charity school. For 26 years I was also an administrator in the Ethiopian Catholic Secretariat (ECS). While in Ethiopia I am currently a member of an FSC community consisting of 3 Ethiopian Brothers and 3 missionaries (2 Americans, 1 Irishman). We recently added to that community 3 Vietnamese DeLaSalle Sisters who fully participate in all our community activities (in a very lively and entertaining way).
17 years ago my LaSallian colleague, Ruth Girmay founded what I later named Addis Hope School. I became Chairman of the Board and Chief Fund Raiser (not my favorite sport). During those years we graduated thousands of illiterate children of street families from a two year kindergarten program. They went on to graduate from government schools, many at the top of their class. As an example, one of them, Esubalu, is today a television personality who has provided for his family so that they no longer are street beggars.
Last year our Addis Hope School, which was rented from local authorities, was demolished to make room for government offices. Since lawyers said this action was illegal, Ruth has been going to court to seek a replacement structure, which the authorities promised in writing and which I doubt will ever happen.
Years ago two shops in a new mall were purchased so as to provide local income to the school. Ruth, who previously taught art at the Cathedral School took courses in leather production. One of those shops is now a workshop for making Ethiopian leather goods (Ethiopia has the largest domestic animal population in Africa). The other will be a sales room. She even obtained a difficult to obtain export license. Eventually, single parent street mothers will be hired for the program and their children will be sponsored in government schools. Knowledgeable people tell us that this type program is supported by the government and can succeed. The DENA district is also able to provide limited funding.
Both Ruth and I have been committed to assisting the poor and marginalized. If you also believe in our mission, kindly write a check to Brothers of the Christian Schools and put in the memo section “Addis Hope.” Mail to: Brother Timothy Froehlich 444A Route 35 South Eatontown, NJ 07724-2200
Live Jesus in Our Hearts,
Bro. Greg Flynn (aka Jack)
Jim Casey (for Bro. Greg Flynn aka Jack)
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JUPDATE: Broderick, Edward [MC1982] id-ed by McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
2018-Apr-15JNEWS: Broderick, Edward [MC1982] promoted to CEO Gilbane Dev
2018-Apr-08
https://nerej.com/broderick-promoted-to-ceo-at-gilbane-development
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-08 @ 14:00
Dear John,
I believe that Edward is a member of the Class of 1982.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
Broderick, Edward [MC1982]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-15 @ 22:55
JLINKEDIN: Foley, Jamie [MC2023?] Medical Instructor at US Army Reserves
2018-Apr-16https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-foley-478871161/
Foley, Jamie [MC2023?]
Medical Instructor at US Army Reserves
Greater New York City Area
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JOBIT: Mennona, Robert [MC1978] 2018-Apr-13
2018-Apr-16https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/scarsdale-ny/robert-mennona-7822070
Robert Mennona
SEPTEMBER 24, 1956 – APRIL 13, 2018
Bobby Mennona of Scarsdale, N.Y. passed away peacefully on April 13, 2018 with his wife Joanne and family and friends by his side.
He was born on September 24, 1956 in Manhattan to John and Virginia Mennona and was raised in the Bronx. He was predeceased by his brother John in infancy. He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife Joanne and his three sisters, Cathy (Frank), Pat (Dominic) and Chris (Pat), brother-in-law Michael (Candy) and brother-in-law John. He had seven nieces and nephews, Frankie, Aimee’, Danny, PJ, Kristina, Katie and Johnny, 11 great nieces and nephews, and five Godchildren who he loved and cherished. Bobby had numerous cousins, and many, many friends and colleagues.
Bobby attended Cardinal Hayes High School and went on to excel at Manhattan College graduating in 1978. While in college Bobby worked at Associated Supermarket on Kingsbridge Road in the Bronx, where he met and made lifelong friends.
He met the love of his life Joanne O’Neill, 40 years ago when they were just kids and went to her high school prom, later marrying in Our Lady of Fatima Church in Scarsdale by Father Hugh McManus, who remains a close personal friend.
He had a successful career and exceled in the food industry working for such companies as Scott Paper Company, Victoria Packing Corporation, Acosta Sales and Marketing, Dannon Yogurt, ESM Ferolie and Select Products Holdings.
Growing up Bobby’s love of sports began as a child playing baseball which he continued for years. He was a die-hard Yankees fan and dedicated a room in their home to his favorite team. His love of reading began with his huge collection of comic books when he was young and continued on with the still unanswered question of “who was the best Superhero”. He was an avid golfer and played some of the most prestigious courses with his colleagues and friends. Knowing Bobby would mean you knew a man who had the ability to make you laugh even on your worst day. He had a quick wit and the gift of storytelling that would always keep the party going. He loved his family deeply and cherished his lifelong friendships.
He loved spending time with his family so a trip to Cooperstown with his nephews, dinner with the guys or a vacation with Joanne and his nieces would be so special to him. The memories created during the countless holiday celebrations, summer barbeques where he grilled a mean steak, and family gatherings at their home will always be in our hearts. He spoke of his recent hospital visit from Cardinal Dolan and feeling so honored and blessed that he sat with him and Joanne to just shoot the breeze. One of his favorite things to do, was to play Santa Claus at the annual family Christmas party and for children in the hospital. His love of music would have him singing in his car with the windows down and just loving life. His big smile and heart of gold have touched so many and he will be greatly missed by all.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to The National Kidney Foundation.
Visitation will take place at Edwin L. Bennett Funeral Home, 824 Scarsdale Rd. Scarsdale NY 10583 Tuesday April 17, 2018 from 7-9pm and Wednesday, April 18, 2018 from 2-4pm & 7-9pm.
Mass of Catholic Burial will take place at Our Lady of Fatima Church on Thursday, April 19, 2018 at 10am
Interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Valhalla NY.
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Mennona, Robert [MC1978 RIP]
Guestbook: None cited
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-16 @ 20:17
JNEWS: Butler, John P. [MC1986] BoD Zynerba Pharma
2018-Apr-16https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2018/04/16/1471865/0/en/Zynerba
-Pharmaceuticals-Appoints-John-P-Butler-to-Board-of-Directors.html
Zynerba Pharmaceuticals Appoints John P. Butler to Board of Directors
April 16, 2018 07:00 ET | Source: Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
DEVON, Pa., April 16, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:ZYNE), a clinical-stage specialty neuropsychiatric pharmaceutical company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative pharmaceutically-produced transdermal cannabinoid treatments for rare and near-rare neurological and psychiatric disorders with high unmet medical needs, today announced the appointment of John Butler to its board of directors. Mr. Butler serves as the President, Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors at Akebia Therapeutics.
“We are excited to welcome John to our Board at such an important time in our evolution,” said Armando Anido, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Zynerba. “John is a recognized leader in our industry, and his extensive operational and commercialization experience in rare diseases will be instrumental as we execute on our vision to bring new therapeutic options to patients with rare and debilitating neuropsychiatric disorders.”
Mr. Butler has served as the President, Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors of Akebia Therapeutics, Inc. since 2013, where he has led the company through its IPO and multiple strategic partnering transactions. Previously Mr. Butler served as the Chief Executive Officer of Inspiration Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. where he led the transactions that resulted in the sale of Inspiration’s hemophilia assets to Cangene Corporation and Baxter International for a total aggregate consideration that could exceed one billion dollars. From 1997 to 2011, Mr. Butler held various positions of increasing strategic importance at Genzyme Corporation, culminating in his tenure as President of the company’s rare genetic diseases business. Prior to his work at Genzyme, Mr. Butler held sales and marketing positions at Amgen and Hoffmann-La Roche. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Relypsa, Inc. from 2013 to 2016, and Chairman of the Board at Keryx Biopharmaceuticals, from 2015 to 2017. Mr. Butler received a B.A. in Chemistry from Manhattan College and an M.B.A. degree from Baruch College, City University of New York.
“This is an important and exciting time for Zynerba as they initiate a pivotal program in Fragile X syndrome mid-year and begin their transition into a commercial stage company,” said Mr. Butler. “I look forward to contributing to the Company’s success as they work to change the lives of people living with certain rare and near-rare neuropsychiatric diseases and their families.”
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Butler, John P. [MC????]
# - # - # - # - #
Dear John,
I believe that John is a member of the Class of 1986.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
Butler, John P. [MC1986]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-16 @ 21:49
JNEWS: Dischino, Michele [MC????] Women in Science Leadership Award
2018-Apr-17https://www.registercitizen.com/news/article/NCCC-professor-receives-Connecticut-Science-12838164.php
NCCC professor receives Connecticut Science Center STEM Award
Published 12:00 am, Tuesday, April 17, 2018
*** begin quote ***
HARTFORD — At its annual award breakfast on Tuesday, April 24, the Connecticut Science Center will celebrate individuals and organizations in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) who share in the mission of lifelong learning through interactive and innovative experiences that explore our changing world through science. Along with the Science Center’s STEM Achievement Awards, the Petit Family Foundation Women in Science Leadership Award is presented to a female leader who makes a significant effort to support other women and encourage girls' interests in STEM. The event is generously presented by Stanley Black & Decker, with support from the Girl Scouts of Connecticut.
*** and ***
Michele Dischino, Ph.D., is the 2018 Petit Family Foundation Women in Science Leadership Award honoree. Dr. Dischino is a Professor of Technology and Engineering Education at Central Connecticut State University, where she teaches courses in a variety of science, technology, engineering and math subjects. She served as co-principal investigator on two NSF-funded grants through which she developed problem-based learning curricula used by educators throughout the U.S. and internationally. As an engineer drawn to education, she has a passion for delivering high-impact experiences to students that serve as examples of the many ways in which engineers can make the world a better place. Dr. Dischino received her Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Manhattan College.
*** end quote ***
Dischino, Michele [MC????]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-17 @ 10:24
Dear John,
I do not find anything in my 'stuff' for Michele.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-17 @ 22:21
MFOUND: Alma Mater is on Instagram
2018-Apr-18https://www.instagram.com/manhattanedu/
Manhattan College
Official Instagram account of Manhattan College. Be sure to tag your photos with #ManhattanCollege.
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JFACEBOOK: Gotimer, Tom [MC1977] shares about his sister's passing
2018-Apr-18Tom Gotimer is feeling sad.
11 mins ·
It is with a heavy heart that I inform my friends of Facebook that my sister, Maureen, has passed away this evening. She fought a tireless fight to beat cancer, for the past 20 years but the bastard disease won. Rest In Peace Maureen, there is no more pain you need endure. Peace and love Little Sister ☮️ ❤️
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-18 @ 23:40
JOBIT: Quadri, Charles John [MC1944 RIP] 2018-Apr-18
2018-Apr-19http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Charles-John-Quadri-106025436
Charles John Quadri
September 24, 1923 - April 18, 2018
Bergenfield, New Jersey
Charles was born on September 24, 1923 and passed away on Wednesday, April 18, 2018.
Charles was a resident of Bergenfield, New Jersey at the time of passing.
He graduated from Cliffside Park High School and Manhattan College, where he received an engineering degree.
A navy veteran of WW II, he was a signalman aboard LST 389, participating in the D Day invasion of Normandy.
All will meet at the funeral home on Saturday at 8:30 AM for the Funeral Mass at St. Therese R.C. Interment will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Tenafly.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Quadri, Charles John [MC???? RIP]
Guestbook: http://www.tributes.com/condolences/leave_memory/106025436
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-19 @ 22:37
Dear John,
I believe that Charles is a member of the Class of 1944.
May He Rest In Peace.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
Quadri, Charles John [MC1944 RIP
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 13:49
JNEWS: Jerome, Peter [MC1990] BoD American Bio Medica Corp
2018-Apr-20https://www.streetinsider.com/SEC+Filings/Form+DEF+14A+AMERICAN
+BIO+MEDICA+CORP+For%3A+Jun+21/14078127.html
AMERICAN BIO MEDICA CORPORATION
*** begin quote ***
The Board of Directors, upon the recommendation of the Nominating Committee has nominated Melissa A. Waterhouse and Peter Jerome to serve as directors until the 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and until their successors have been duly elected and qualified. It is the intention of the persons named as proxies in the accompanying proxy, unless instructed otherwise, to vote for Melissa A. Waterhouse and Peter Jerome. If either Melissa A. Waterhouse or Peter Jerome should become unavailable to serve, the proxy may be voted for the election of a substitute nominee as may be designated by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has no reason to believe that either Melissa A. Waterhouse or Peter Jerome will be unable to serve if elected.
*** and ***
Peter Jerome was appointed to our Board of Directors in January 2018. Since February 2016, Mr. Jerome has been the Senior Director, Finance of Taconic Biosciences, Inc., a company that develops and produces animal research models for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide. Prior to his position with Taconic Biosciences, Inc., Mr. Jerome served as the Chief Financial Officer for CMP Pharma, Inc., a niche pharmaceutical company and Chief Financial Officer for Tyratech, Inc., a life science company. Mr. Jerome received his B.S in accounting and computer information systems from Manhattan College and has been a certified public accountant since 2004.
*** end quote ***
Jerome, Peter [MC????]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 13:46
Dear John,
I believe that Peter Jerome is a member of the Class of 1990.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
Jerome, Peter [MC1990]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 23:00
MNEWS: Jasper Open 14MAY2018
2018-Apr-20Take a break from your Monday routine...
Join Manhattan College at the
30th Annual Jasper Open!
With the beautiful weather coming our way, let's swing into spring by joining the College for a fun-filled day of golf and camaraderie to benefit students and future generations of Jaspers.
30th Annual Jasper Open
Monday, May 14, 2018
Westchester Country Club
99 Biltmore Ave.
Rye, NY
10:30 a.m. | Registration and Brunch
12:00 p.m. | Shotgun Start
5:30 p.m. | Reception and Dinner
In addition to joining us for a round of golf or dinner, consider showing your support by taking out a sponsorship or donating a
silent auction or raffle prize.
Kindly register today:
Deadline - Monday, April 30
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 13:59
MNEWS: Higgins Eng & Sci Center ground break
2018-Apr-20
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 14:02
JNEWS: Bendary, Ahmed [MC????] honored by Buckley Country Day
2018-Apr-20https://www.gcnews.com/articles/buckley-country-day-school-to-honor-garden-city-resident/
Buckley Country Day School to honor Garden City resident Ahmed Bendary
| April 19, 2018
*** begin quote ***
Buckley Country Day School in Roslyn is proud to announce that it will honor Ahmed Bendary at its annual Spring Gala on Saturday, May 12th, 2018. Bendary, a Garden City resident, has been a part of the Buckley community since 2000.
*** and ***
Founder and CEO of Bendary Car Corporation, Ahmed graduated from Manhattan College with a degree in electrical engineering. In 2005, Mr. Bendary joined Buckley’s Board of Trustees and was instrumental in supporting key facility and campus improvements. During his tenure, Mr. Bendary has been a dedicated Board member in every way.
*** end quote ***
Bendary, Ahmed [MC????]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 14:04
Dear John,
I do not find anything for Ahmed in my 'stuff'.
Mike
McEneney, Mike (MC1953)
[JR: Thanks, Mike. Much appreciated.]
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 22:59
MNEWS: Alma Mater's student bring water to a PR school
2018-Apr-20http://www.welcome2thebronx.com/2018/04/19/watch-bronx-engineering
-students-develop-water-filtration-system-school-puerto-rico/
Watch: Bronx Engineering Students Develop Water Filtration System for a School in Puerto Rico
APRIL 19, 2018 by ED GARCÍA CONDE
*** begin quote ***
Engineering students at Manhattan College in The Bronx worked together to create a water filtration system for a school in Puerto Rico dealing with the aftermath of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Maria which created the largest humanitarian crisis in US history.
*** end quote ***
# - # - # - # - # 2018-Apr-20 @ 14:09
ENDNOTE: Isn't Cuomo a "good Catholic"?
2018-Apr-21https://www.wsj.com/articles/cuomo-loots-a-catholic-charity-1523315215
OPINION
COMMENTARY
Cuomo Loots A Catholic Charity
Fidelis planned to devote billions to health care for the needy. New York’s governor had other ideas.
By Bill Hammond
April 9, 2018 7:06 p.m. ET
*** begin quote ***
Albany, N.Y.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has a disturbing new way to raise revenue: using government muscle to squeeze private organizations into “voluntarily” writing billion-dollar checks. That’s what he did to Fidelis Care, a nonprofit health plan affiliated with the Catholic Church, and its would-be buyer, Centene Corp.
In a murky deal announced on Good Friday, Fidelis and Centene agreed to pay the state $2 billion over four years. The payments are not technically required by law. But Fidelis and Centene agreed to them after a three-month pressure campaign by Mr. Cuomo, including overt and implied threats to seize the funds, block the sale or both.
Fidelis would seem an odd target for a gubernatorial money grab. Founded in 1993, it specializes in health coverage for the poor. With 1.6 million members, it is the largest purveyor of state-sponsored programs such as Medicaid managed care, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan, as well as Medicare Advantage and commercial ObamaCare coverage. It has played a big role in reducing the state’s uninsured rate, and it has not been publicly accused of wrongdoing.
What sparked Mr. Cuomo’s campaign was Fidelis’s pending sale to Centene, announced in September, for a price of $3.75 billion. The bishops planned to put the money into a charitable foundation in support of health care for the needy. Mr. Cuomo argued that the state was entitled to $3 billion of the proceeds because Fidelis earned most of its revenue from state programs. By that logic, the state could skim the savings accounts of public employees when they retire.
He also cited the precedent of Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, which yielded billions to the state when it converted to for-profit status in the mid-2000s. But that was a unique transaction under a narrowly tailored law that applies to no other company.
Despite lacking a legal claim to the money, Mr. Cuomo pursued it aggressively. Bills he submitted to the Legislature would not only have seized 80% of the proceeds from the sale but also raided Fidelis’s reserve accounts if the deal were canceled. The bishops would have paid either way. The sale needed regulatory approval from two state agencies, the departments of Health and of Financial Services, leaving it vulnerable to delay or rejection by Mr. Cuomo’s appointees.
*** end quote ***
Sorry, but this is just “extortion”. And the Church hierarchy is over a barrel. Why should the Church ever cooperate with the Gooferment?
Argh!
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