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Tom Golisano Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: Tom Golisano: Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Political Figure

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Tom Golisano: Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Political Figure Study Guide

Entrepreneurial Ventures: Paychex

Tom Golisano, born in 1941, is principally recognized as the founder of Paychex, a firm specializing in payroll and human resources services.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano is widely acknowledged as the founder of Paychex, a prominent company offering payroll and human resources solutions.

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Paychex was established in 1981 with an initial capital investment of $10,000.

Answer: False

Explanation: Paychex was founded in 1971, not 1981, and its initial capital consisted of $3,000 and the use of a credit card, rather than $10,000.

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Tom Golisano holds the position of Chairman Emeritus at Paychex.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano serves as Chairman and Director of Paychex, not Chairman Emeritus. He transitioned to Chairman after serving as President and CEO.

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What is the primary business enterprise founded by Tom Golisano?

Answer: Paychex, a company providing payroll and human resources services.

Explanation: Tom Golisano is primarily recognized as the founder of Paychex, a company that offers comprehensive payroll and human resources services to businesses.

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When was Paychex founded, and what was the initial capital used?

Answer: 1971, with $3,000 and a credit card

Explanation: Paychex was founded by Tom Golisano in 1971, utilizing $3,000 and a credit card for initial capital.

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What was Tom Golisano's role at Paychex after October 2004?

Answer: Chairman and Director

Explanation: Following his tenure as President and CEO, Tom Golisano assumed the role of Chairman and Director at Paychex starting in October 2004.

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Business Investments and Acquisitions

Greenlight Networks, a fiber internet provider, was acquired by Tom Golisano in April 2018 for $100 million.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano acquired Greenlight Networks, a fiber internet provider, in April 2018, injecting $100 million to support its expansion.

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Tom Golisano sold his controlling stake in Greenlight Networks to its original founders in 2022.

Answer: False

Explanation: In 2022, Tom Golisano divested his controlling equity interest in Greenlight Networks to the investment firm Oak Hill, not its original founders.

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The Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship offers four-year degree programs.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship specializes in two-year business certificate programs, not four-year degrees.

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What type of company is Greenlight Networks, and who acquired it in April 2018?

Answer: A fiber internet provider acquired by Tom Golisano.

Explanation: Greenlight Networks is a fiber internet provider that was acquired by Tom Golisano in April 2018.

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To whom did Tom Golisano sell his controlling equity interest in Greenlight Networks in 2022?

Answer: The investment firm Oak Hill.

Explanation: In 2022, Tom Golisano divested his controlling equity interest in Greenlight Networks to the investment firm Oak Hill.

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What is the stated goal of the Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship?

Answer: To shorten the duration and reduce the cost of business-related education.

Explanation: The Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship is designed with the objective of reducing the duration and overall cost associated with business-related education.

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Sports Team Ownership

Tom Golisano co-owned the New York Yankees baseball team.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano co-owned the Buffalo Sabres (NHL) and the Buffalo Bandits (NLL), not the New York Yankees.

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Golisano purchased the Buffalo Sabres from the NHL after the previous owner faced financial fraud charges.

Answer: True

Explanation: The NHL had taken ownership of the Buffalo Sabres due to the financial fraud conviction of its previous owner, John Rigas, before Golisano acquired the team.

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Tom Golisano sold the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits in 2003.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano sold the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits in February 2011, not in 2003.

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Tom Golisano successfully bid for the bankrupt Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Tom Golisano submitted a bid for the bankrupt Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012, he was not the successful acquirer.

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Which professional sports teams did Tom Golisano co-own?

Answer: The Buffalo Sabres and the Buffalo Bandits.

Explanation: Tom Golisano was a co-owner of the Buffalo Sabres of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Buffalo Bandits of the National Lacrosse League (NLL).

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Why did the NHL take ownership of the Buffalo Sabres before Golisano acquired them?

Answer: The previous owner, John Rigas, was convicted of financial fraud.

Explanation: The National Hockey League assumed ownership of the Buffalo Sabres following the conviction of its previous owner, John Rigas, for financial fraud, prior to Golisano's acquisition.

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Tom Golisano made attempts to acquire which other major sports franchises besides the Buffalo Sabres?

Answer: The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Buffalo Bills.

Explanation: In addition to his involvement with the Buffalo Sabres, Tom Golisano attempted to acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Buffalo Bills.

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Political Career and Activism

Tom Golisano was a founding member of the Conservative Party of New York.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano was a founding member of the Independence Party of New York, not the Conservative Party.

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Golisano ran for Governor of New York three times as the candidate for the Independence Party.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano sought the governorship of New York on three occasions, each time as the nominee for the Independence Party.

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Tom Golisano invested over $100 million in his gubernatorial campaigns, ensuring the Independence Party's ballot line.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano invested a total of $93 million across his three gubernatorial campaigns. His electoral performance ensured the Independence Party maintained its ballot line.

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In 2005, Tom Golisano switched his political affiliation to the Democratic Party.

Answer: False

Explanation: In October 2005, Tom Golisano changed his political affiliation to the Republican Party, not the Democratic Party.

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Tom Golisano established the PAC 'Responsible New York' to support candidates focused on property tax reductions and election reform.

Answer: True

Explanation: The PAC 'Responsible New York,' founded by Tom Golisano in 2008, aimed to support candidates advocating for property tax reductions and election reform.

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Tom Golisano claimed responsibility for orchestrating the defection of senators Pedro Espada Jr. and Hiram Monserrate during the 2009 New York State Senate leadership crisis.

Answer: True

Explanation: Golisano asserted his involvement in influencing the defection of senators Espada Jr. and Monserrate during the 2009 New York State Senate leadership crisis, motivated partly by opposition to proposed tax increases.

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In 2011, Tom Golisano became the spokesperson for an organization advocating for the abolition of the Electoral College.

Answer: False

Explanation: In 2011, Tom Golisano became the spokesperson for National Popular Vote Inc., an organization advocating for a national popular vote system, rather than directly for the abolition of the Electoral College.

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The 'Tax My Property Fairly' campaign, launched by Golisano in 2018, aims to assist homeowners in achieving equitable property tax assessments.

Answer: True

Explanation: Launched in 2018, the 'Tax My Property Fairly' campaign, spearheaded by Golisano, is dedicated to aiding homeowners in securing fairer property tax assessments.

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Tom Golisano has exclusively been affiliated with the Independence Party throughout his political career.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Golisano was a prominent figure in the Independence Party, he later switched his political affiliation to the Republican Party in 2005.

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In the 2002 New York gubernatorial election, Tom Golisano secured 14% of the vote as an Independence Party candidate.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano garnered 14% of the vote in the 2002 New York gubernatorial election while running as the Independence Party candidate.

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George Pataki won the 1998 New York gubernatorial election, where Tom Golisano received 8% of the vote.

Answer: True

Explanation: George Pataki was victorious in the 1998 New York gubernatorial election, with Tom Golisano securing 8% of the vote as the Independence Party candidate.

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In the 1994 New York gubernatorial election, Tom Golisano ran as the Republican candidate and received 4% of the vote.

Answer: False

Explanation: In the 1994 New York gubernatorial election, Tom Golisano ran as the Independence Party candidate, not the Republican candidate, and received 4% of the vote.

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What political party did Tom Golisano help establish, and what office did he pursue using its platform?

Answer: The Independence Party of New York

Explanation: Tom Golisano was a founding member of the Independence Party of New York and ran for Governor of New York under its banner.

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How much did Tom Golisano invest in total across his three gubernatorial campaigns?

Answer: 93 million dollars

Explanation: Across his three gubernatorial campaigns, Tom Golisano invested a total of $93 million.

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What was the effect of Golisano's consistent performance in his gubernatorial campaigns on the Independence Party?

Answer: It ensured the party maintained an automatic ballot line for four years following each race.

Explanation: Golisano's consistent electoral success in his gubernatorial campaigns ensured that the Independence Party maintained its automatic ballot line for the subsequent four years after each election.

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In what year did Tom Golisano switch his political affiliation to the Republican Party?

Answer: 2005

Explanation: Tom Golisano switched his political affiliation to the Republican Party in October 2005.

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What was the primary objective of the PAC 'Responsible New York' established by Golisano in 2008?

Answer: To support candidates for the New York state legislature focused on property tax reductions and election reform.

Explanation: The PAC 'Responsible New York,' established by Golisano in 2008, aimed to support candidates for the New York state legislature who prioritized property tax reductions and election reform.

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Tom Golisano became the spokesperson for which organization in 2011?

Answer: National Popular Vote Inc.

Explanation: In 2011, Tom Golisano assumed the role of spokesperson for National Popular Vote Inc., an organization advocating for a national popular vote system for presidential elections.

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What is the stated objective of the 'Tax My Property Fairly' campaign launched by Golisano in 2018?

Answer: To support homeowners in achieving fairer property tax assessments.

Explanation: The 'Tax My Property Fairly' campaign, initiated by Golisano in 2018, aims to assist homeowners in obtaining more equitable property tax assessments.

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In the 1998 New York gubernatorial election, what percentage of the vote did Tom Golisano receive?

Answer: 8%

Explanation: Tom Golisano received 8% of the vote in the 1998 New York gubernatorial election while running as the Independence Party candidate.

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Philanthropy and Charitable Initiatives

As of January 2021, Tom Golisano had donated over $300 million to philanthropic causes.

Answer: True

Explanation: By January 2021, Tom Golisano had committed or donated in excess of $300 million to various philanthropic endeavors.

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The B. Thomas Golisano Foundation was established in 1985 to support organizations aiding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Answer: True

Explanation: Founded in 1985, the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations that foster opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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Tom Golisano donated $10 million to Alfred State College in 2008 for a new science building.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano donated $10 million in 2008 to Niagara University for the construction of the B. Thomas Golisano Center for Integrated Sciences, not to Alfred State College for a science building.

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A $4 million donation from Golisano in 2009 was used for the construction of a field house at Ave Maria University.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 2009, Ave Maria University received a $4 million donation from Tom Golisano designated for the construction of a new field house.

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Golisano's 2012 donation of $12 million supported the Special Olympics' 'Healthy Communities' initiative.

Answer: True

Explanation: A $12 million donation from Golisano in 2012 was instrumental in launching the Special Olympics' 'Healthy Communities' initiative.

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Tom Golisano's 2015 commitment of $25 million to Special Olympics was his largest single gift to any organization.

Answer: True

Explanation: The $25 million commitment made by Tom Golisano to Special Olympics in 2015 stands as his largest single philanthropic gift to any organization and was also the largest donation ever received by Special Olympics from an individual.

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The Golisano Children's Hospital at Lee Health in southwest Florida was funded by a $15 million donation.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Golisano Children's Hospital at Lee Health was funded by a $20 million donation from Tom Golisano, not $15 million.

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The Golisano Neurology and Rehabilitation Center at Unity Hospital opened in 2014, partially funded by Golisano.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Golisano Neurology and Rehabilitation Center at Unity Hospital commenced operations in 2014, with partial funding provided by Tom Golisano.

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In 2015, Forbes featured Tom Golisano and his foundation in an article about major philanthropic bets.

Answer: True

Explanation: Forbes recognized Tom Golisano and the Golisano Foundation in 2015 with a feature titled 'Philanthropy's Big Bets for Social Change'.

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The Golisano Center for Community Health, opened in 2016, provides services exclusively for children with disabilities.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Golisano Center for Community Health offers integrated healthcare services for individuals with disabilities and their families, not exclusively for children.

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Tom Golisano donated $7.5 million to Nazareth University for a new athletic training center focused on inclusion.

Answer: True

Explanation: Nazareth University received $7.5 million from Tom Golisano to establish a new athletic training center designed as a model for inclusion, fitness, and wellness.

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Golisano has supported WXXI Public Broadcasting Council twice, funding digital upgrades and equipment acquisition.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano has provided two significant donations to WXXI Public Broadcasting Council, supporting digital upgrades and equipment acquisition.

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A performing arts center named the Golisano Center for the Performing Arts was planned in Rochester, acknowledging Golisano's donation.

Answer: True

Explanation: A planned performing arts center in Rochester, part of a revised proposal for Midtown Plaza, was to be named the Golisano Center for the Performing Arts in recognition of Golisano's contribution.

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The Golisano Global Health Care Leadership Awards were first presented in 2015.

Answer: False

Explanation: The inaugural Golisano Global Health Care Leadership Awards were presented in 2017 during the Special Olympics World Games, not in 2015.

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Golisano's $14 million donation led to the renaming of the University of Rochester's pediatric facility as Golisano Children's Hospital.

Answer: True

Explanation: A $14 million donation from Golisano resulted in the renaming of the University of Rochester's pediatric facility to Golisano Children's Hospital in 2002.

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The Golisano Autism Center in Rochester integrates medical and educational support services for families affected by autism.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Golisano Autism Center in Rochester is distinguished by its integrated approach, consolidating various medical, educational, and recreational support services for families impacted by autism.

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In 2024, Tom Golisano donated $360 million to 82 non-profit organizations across Upstate New York.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 2024, Tom Golisano made a significant philanthropic contribution of $360 million, distributed among 82 non-profit organizations throughout Upstate New York.

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What is the approximate total amount Tom Golisano had donated to philanthropic causes as of January 2021?

Answer: 300 million dollars

Explanation: As of January 2021, Tom Golisano had committed or donated over $300 million to various philanthropic causes.

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When was the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation established, and what is its main focus?

Answer: 1985, focusing on opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Explanation: The B. Thomas Golisano Foundation was established in 1985 with the primary objective of creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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What was the purpose of Tom Golisano's $10 million donation to Niagara University in 2008?

Answer: To support the construction of the B. Thomas Golisano Center for Integrated Sciences.

Explanation: In 2008, Tom Golisano donated $10 million to Niagara University to support the construction of the B. Thomas Golisano Center for Integrated Sciences.

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Golisano's $12 million donation in 2012 to the Special Olympics was intended to launch which initiative?

Answer: Healthy Communities initiative

Explanation: The $12 million donation made by Golisano in 2012 to the Special Olympics was designated for the launch of the Healthy Communities initiative.

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What distinction does Golisano's $25 million commitment to Special Olympics hold?

Answer: It was his largest single gift to any organization and the largest donation ever received by Special Olympics from an individual.

Explanation: Tom Golisano's 2015 commitment of $25 million to Special Olympics represents his largest single gift to any organization and is also the largest donation ever received by Special Olympics from an individual.

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Which children's hospital was funded by Tom Golisano's $20 million donation and opened in spring 2017?

Answer: Golisano Children's Hospital at Lee Health

Explanation: The Golisano Children's Hospital at Lee Health in southwest Florida was funded by Tom Golisano's $20 million donation and commenced operations in the spring of 2017.

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What facility at Unity Hospital in Rochester received partial funding from Golisano's $10 million contribution?

Answer: The Golisano Neurology and Rehabilitation Center

Explanation: The Golisano Neurology and Rehabilitation Center at Unity Hospital in Rochester received partial funding from Golisano's $10 million contribution.

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What is unique about the Golisano Autism Center that opened in Rochester in September 2019?

Answer: It integrates various recreational, medical, and educational support services under one roof.

Explanation: The Golisano Autism Center in Rochester distinguishes itself by integrating a wide array of recreational, medical, and educational support services for families affected by autism within a single facility.

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What was the total amount Golisano donated to 82 non-profit organizations across Upstate New York in 2024?

Answer: 360 million dollars

Explanation: In 2024, Tom Golisano contributed a total of $360 million to 82 non-profit organizations located throughout Upstate New York.

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Personal Background and Public Profile

Tom Golisano earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Alfred State College.

Answer: False

Explanation: Tom Golisano obtained an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree from Alfred State College, not a Bachelor of Science.

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In 2020, Forbes ranked Tom Golisano as the 238th wealthiest American with a net worth of $3.4 billion.

Answer: True

Explanation: Forbes reported in 2020 that Tom Golisano was the 238th wealthiest American, with an estimated net worth of $3.4 billion.

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Golisano announced his relocation to Florida in 2009 primarily to escape New York's high tax rates.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano cited New York's high tax rates as the principal reason for his decision to relocate to Florida in 2009.

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Tom Golisano co-authored the book 'Built, Not Born: A Self-Made Billionaire's No-Nonsense Guide for Entrepreneurs'.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano is a co-author of the book 'Built, Not Born: A Self-Made Billionaire's No-Nonsense Guide for Entrepreneurs'.

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Tom Golisano's book 'Built Not Born' reached the number one position on Amazon's bestseller list for business books upon release.

Answer: False

Explanation: Upon its release, Tom Golisano's book 'Built Not Born' achieved the number one position on Barnes & Noble's business bestseller list, not Amazon's.

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Tom Golisano is currently married to Monica Seles, a former professional tennis player.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tom Golisano is currently married to Monica Seles, a renowned former professional tennis player.

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According to recent reports, what was Tom Golisano's net worth in 2023?

Answer: 4.9 billion dollars

Explanation: Forbes reported Tom Golisano's net worth to be approximately $4.9 billion in 2023.

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What degree did Tom Golisano earn from Alfred State College?

Answer: Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Explanation: Tom Golisano earned an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree from Alfred State College.

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What reason did Tom Golisano give for moving to Florida in 2009?

Answer: To escape New York's high tax rates.

Explanation: Tom Golisano cited New York's high tax rates as the primary motivation for his relocation to Florida in 2009.

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What was the market reception of Tom Golisano's book 'Built Not Born' upon its release in February 2020?

Answer: It reached number one on Barnes & Noble's business bestseller list.

Explanation: Upon its release in February 2020, Tom Golisano's book 'Built Not Born' achieved significant commercial success, reaching the number one position on Barnes & Noble's business bestseller list.

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Who is Tom Golisano currently married to?

Answer: Monica Seles

Explanation: Tom Golisano is currently married to Monica Seles, a former professional tennis player.

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