Senate Resolution No. 3150

BY: Senator PARKER

MOURNING the death of Martin Douglas, talented
entertainer and musician, distinguished citizen and
dedicated member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and pay
just tribute to those musical geniuses whose commitment and creative
talents contributed to the entertainment and cultural enrichment of
their community and the entire State of New York; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework served to enhance the
quality of life in their communities and the great State of New York;
and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to mourn the death of Martin
Douglas, who died on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at the age of 71; and

WHEREAS, Born on May 3, 1948, in Trinidad, Martin Douglas spent much
of his childhood roaming local pan yards and listening to steel-pan
bands; in 1986, he immigrated to New York and worked, among other jobs,
as a subway car inspector for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority
and was actively involved with TWU Local 100 of the Transit Workers; and

WHEREAS, Martin Douglas, known to many as Dougie, truly lived and
breathed steel-pan music; he loved the instrument's jangly sound, and
its versatility, and for over two decades, he was a leader in Brooklyn's
steel band scene, playing his music everywhere, mentoring generations of
young players and keeping steel-pan music a vibrant part of New York's
cultural life; he was the founder of Crossfire, a steel-pan band admired
across the city and beyond, and president of the United States Steelband
Association; and

WHEREAS, Each year, Martin Douglas happily returned to Trinidad for
the famed Panorama steel band competition, and was instrumental in the
great success of New York's version of the contest; and

WHEREAS, Martin Douglas is survived by his loving wife, Jannette,
and their three cherished children, as well as numerous friends and
fellow music lovers; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to remember the
life and accomplishments of legendary musician, Martin Douglas, whose
illustrious career will forever live in the hearts of many and continue
to inspire generations to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Martin Douglas, and to express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Martin Douglas.