Issues: Local Government

Getting Heads out of the Sand

I guess some might call me old-fashioned, but I still enjoy listening to talk radio. Even with the rise of online media, there is still something very personal about radio that I like. You get news and opinions of course, but it’s the sound and inflection of people’s voices that give you insight into the personalities and emotions surrounding a subject. Whether it be a long-suffering, fellow Mets fan or an author discussing his or her latest book, I admit that I often drive around the block or take a longer route to listen a little longer.

Senator Jack Martins was back in Elmont this past Saturday attending "The Sanctuary's" Block Party Community Day. The block party community day was a great success with a vibrant turnout. Children were very busy going on rides and climbing aboard the Elmont Fire Department Engine #1 to their great delight. Senator Martins was welcomed to the party by Sanctuary Pastor Jolly's wife Lisa, who introduced him to church members, and volunteers. During Senator Martins' visit, he thanked the volunteers for their hard work and received community input on issues impacting Elmont's neighborhoods. "Community events like this are what make Elmont such a special place. People work together and help one another in a positive way.

A bill (S4494) sponsored by Senator Jack M. Martins that would increase penalties for the fraudulent packaging, sale or certification of Kosher food has been signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

The legislation came about in response to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Kosher food inspection unit being cut as part of the 2010-11 fiscal year state budget. With a lack of food inspectors, increasing fines will deter some companies that may be inclined to fraudulently market Kosher food products.

Legislation Supported by Senator Martins Aids Crime Solving and Prevention

As of August 1, New York State got tougher on crime. That’s because legislation that expanded the DNA Databank went into effect. The All-Crimes DNA Law will add approximately 46,000 individual DNA samples a year to the databank, providing law enforcement with additional tools it needs to solve crime and potentially prevent some future crimes from occurring.

On Monday, July 30, Senator Jack M. Martins spent a pleasant summer day at North Hempstead Beach Park for Funday Monday. Each Monday, seniors from the communities that comprise the Town of North Hempstead gather at the beach for a day of music, dancing, card games and good company.

On July 30, Funday Monday included a health fair with numerous tables set up where residents can get information. Senator Martins provided a cool refreshment as he brought an ice cream truck, courtesy of Phil Fortuna and Long Island Checker Cab, to give free ice cream. Senator Martins greeted many friends and was honored to have spent the day with the seniors.

Slowly but Surely

Back in February of 2011, I met Susan, a resident of New Hyde Park, who shared with me yet another of those Long Island Railroad stories that can drive sane people mad.

Just a few weeks before, Susan had decided to avoid the snow-covered roads and purchased two one-way tickets at the New Hyde Park railroad station. She didn’t use the return fare since she was able to get a ride home. When she tried to refund the ticket, she was shocked to learn MTA policy called for a $10 processing fee regardless of the ticket’s price. That was more than her $7.25 ticket. Imagine a refund fee more costly than the actual product itself!