Local Government Updates

You Can Pay a Beautiful Tribute This Memorial Day

Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and while it affords us a wonderful opportunity to gather with family and friends, let’s take some time to reflect on what this holiday is really about -- remembering and honoring those who sacrificed their lives for this great country.

The newest member of the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is well-known in the Mineola community as someone many have come to admire not only his service to the community, but his knowledge and wisdom. But before Walter Hobbs was known as a pillar of the Mineola community, he served in World War II, as a lieutenant in the Naval Air Corps.

On Tuesday, May 21, New York State Senator Jack M. Martins honored Mr. Hobbs by inducting him into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame, joining a prestigious group of men and women who have served bravely in defending our nation’s freedom.

One bill (S4682) names the Jericho Turnpike bridge overpass that crosses over the Cross Island Parkway in Bellerose as the "Police Officer Arthur Lopez Memorial Bridge." 

Officer Lopez had served with the Nassau County Police Department for eight years and was assigned to the Emergency Services Unit, one of the department's most elite units after only five years of service. During his time on the force, Officer Lopez earned six meritorious service awards, three excellent police duty awards and several other command recognitions.