In The News
September 5, 2007
Rick Lazio Endorses John Schettino for Islip Town Council
Former Congressman Rick Lazio has officially endorsed John Schettino for Islip Town Councilman. John Schettino is running for the seat being vacated by Pamela Greene.
At a mid-August fund-raiser for Schettino, hosted by Lazio and his wife, Patricia, Lazio spoke of Schettino’s long standing involvement in the Islip community, including civic organizations such as P.A.W.S., (Partners Advancing West Islip High School), the West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition, the Islip Town Planning Board and the West Islip Chamber of Commerce. “John has always been committed to his community, even when no one was watching, and will be the kind of leader who will stand tall and demand that his voice be heard when the interests of his constituents are at stake,” Lazio said.
An attorney for 20 years, owning his own law practice since 2002, Mr. Schettino has been active in Islip’s Community, whether as coach of PAL Girls and Boys Lacrosse or as a volunteer legal council for various homeowners associations. He graduated Brooklyn Law School in 1986, having earned his A.A. from Suffolk Community College and his B.A. from Cortland State, where he himself played lacrosse. A life long resident of Long Island, Mr. Schettino graduated Ward Melville High School in 1974.
During his long standing legal career, Schettino served on the prestigious West Point Military Academy Nomination Board, having been appointed by then, U.S. Representative, Lazio. In that role, he was responsible for interviewing candidates, reviewing their backgrounds and making recommendations for appointments to Lazio.
At the Lazio’s fund-raiser, for Schettino, many prominent dignitaries were there to support John, including State Senator Caesar Trunzo, Assemblyman Phil Boyle, Legislator Tom Barraga, Suffolk County Treasurer Angie Carpenter, former Mayor of Lindenhurst Lynda Distler, Councilman Steve Flotteron, Councilman William Rowley, Islip Republican Vice-Chairwoman Jeanette Messina and Suffolk Conservative Chairman Edward Walsh.
Lazio praised Schettino for being a strong advocate for homeownership, reduction of tax burdens for young families and the middle class, youth programs, preserving our environment and much needed reform of local government. “John will work harder on these issues than anyone I know,” said Lazio.
Lazio also noted that, “Retaining the beauty of our town’s neighborhoods is a priority of John’s, while balancing the needs for economic development and preservation of the environment.”
In addition to the many supporters and friends of Lazio throughout his political career, also in attendance was Clara Datre, candidate for Islip Town Supervisor, Tom Finlay, candidate for Islip Town Council and Regina Duffy, candidate for Islip Town Clerk.
