Gold did not comment on the illness, but did say on Thursday that the circumstances are "very sad and that he is surrounded by family."
In his fourth term, Skartados' district includes both the City of Newburgh and the Town of Newburgh; as well as the City of Beacon, the City of Poughkeepsie, the Hamlet of Marlboro, and the Town of Lloyd.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the serious illness of our good friend and community leader, New York State Assemblymember Frank Skartados," Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said. "Frank has fought hard for what he believes in with an unswerving goal of improving our community and the lives of his constituents. Our thoughts and prayers are with Frank and his family and friends during this difficult time.”
While not busy in Albany, Skartados owns a small farm in Milton and spent his time renovating properties in downtown Poughkeepsie.
He was born in Greece and moved to America at age 14 with his mother, his website says.
Within months of arriving in New York City, his mother returned to Greece, leaving him to build his own life in America where he taught himself English and worked his way through school.
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