In a far ranging off- the-record discussion that looked at issues that included the state deficit, infrastructure funding, a tunnel beneath the Long Island Sound, shared economic pain and how best to address the stinging recession Governor David Paterson recently engaged members of the Association for a Better Long Island during an invitation only breakfast at Oheka Castle in Huntington.

Using self depreciating humor, a blizzard of facts and a conversational style unique to the Governor, he told the 50 ABLI guests that the state is uncharted economic territory having not faced this kind of recession in decades.  "Hard choices and tough decisions are in our future," Paterson told the business leaders. "There is no simple solution to a deficit that has ballooned to $17 billion as Wall Street lays off thousands."

Of particular concern to the ABLI is the use of public money to purchase private property at a time when emergency services, essential programs and government agencies crucial to protecting the state's quality of life are being reduced or eliminated.

ABLI Executive Director Desmond Ryan was the moderator for the forum, engaging the Governor during the first 20 minutes in a one-on-one conversation that focused on Long Island issues.

ABLI President Mitchell Rechler of Rechler Equity Partners observed, "This was an extraordinary session with the Governor where we heard straight talk and a commitment to work openly with business for the purpose of rebuilding our regional economy. This was a public servant who had his facts nailed down, knew his audience and spoke to the issue. Collectively, there is much work ahead of us to get through the recession but there was much hope in the room as evidenced by the standing ovation he was given at the end of our question and answer session."