(East Harlem, NY) - Senator José M. Serrano joined El Museo del Barrio, colleagues in government and the community in celebrating the 37th Annual Three Kings Day festivities in East Harlem. The annual celebration culminates in a parade in the streets of El Barrio, bringing together local residents, families, school groups and community organizations from all over New York City.

As we depart 2013 and head into 2014, the New York State Senate continues to focus on ways to reduce spending, cut taxes and help businesses create new jobs. In fact, my colleagues and I recently released a report in November outlining how taxes need to be reformed. We also gave recommendations that would create jobs. We look forward to working with the Governor and the Assembly in 2014 on these recommendations. (Click on the link to view the report: http://www.nysenate.gov/news/senator-farley-discusses-report-tax-reform)

In the meantime, starting the New Year, on January 1st, the following new laws will take effect that already support the focus of reducing taxes:

New Bill Introduced Eliminating Sale of Children's Products with Formaldehyde in NYS 

NEW YORK - State Senator José M. Serrano and Assemblymember Brian Kavanagh announced the introduction of a new bill banning the sale of children's products containing the carcinogen formaldehyde by manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers in New York State. 

As we enter the Christmas and New Year’s holiday weeks, State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I – Schenectady) wishes constituents a happy and safe season.

“I wish you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones,” Senator Farley said. “Please also take caution when driving to and from celebrations.”

Senator Farley reminds people that New York State has tough DWI laws, including, Leandra’s Law, which was strengthened earlier this year to provide new safeguards to keep drunken drivers off New York’s roads.

(Bronx, NY) - Senator José M. Serrano applauds the recent decision of The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to grant landmark status to the interior of the Bronx General Post Office (GPO), located on the beautiful and historic Grand Concourse (near E. 149th Street).

(Bronx, NY)- Senator Serrano joined The Orchestra of the Bronx at Bronx Community College for a presentation of Handel's Messiah. Serrano, who is a long-time advocate for the arts, served as one of the orators for this annual holiday event. The event is widely-attended and has become a holiday tradition for the Bronx community. The Orchestra of the Bronx (The Bronx Opera Chorus and soloists), conducted by Michael Spearman, presented the words in Handel's timeless musical settings.

(East Harlem, NY)- Senator Serrano joined The East Harlem Holiday Tree Committee, East Harlem community residents, and his colleagues for the 10th Annual El Barrio/East Harlem Tree Lighting Ceremony. As per tradition, the tree lighting took place at Franklin Plaza on the northeast corner of Third Avenue and 106th street. 

(East Harlem, NY)- Senator Serrano joined Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito's for the El Barrio/East Harlem Anti-Violence Youth-Led Peace March. Parents, families, schools and community-based organizations united in the call for peace in the community and more youth programs.