From the Desk of Senator Kemp Hannon: August 28, 2009

Senator Notes New Ban on Texting While Driving

Senator Kemp Hannon announces adoption of legislation banning texting while driving. The New York State Senate recently passed a bill to make New York’s roads and highways safer by, among other provisions, banning the practice of texting and using other electronic devices while driving.

From the Desk of Senator Kemp Hannon: August 21, 2009

Managed Care Reform Continues

Recently, the governor signed into law an extensive managed care reform package.

From the Desk of Assemblyman David G. Mcdonough

MTA Capital Spending Plan Wrong for Nassau

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) recently released its five-year capital spending plan which lays out how the organization plans to adapt to changing needs and budgetary restrictions during the coming years. Having read the information contained in this $25.5 billion capital spending plan, I am once again confounded by the lack of forward thinking by the MTA.

Letter: Moran Deeply Saddened by Sirois’ Future Departure

I was deeply saddened when I heard of the superintendent’s resignation. I write today to let the community know what kind of superintendent he was:

Letter: Ward Does Not Speak for Levittown Board of Education

In his July 31 letter to the editor, James P. Ward, trustee of the Levittown Board of Education, does not speak for the Levittown Board of Education.

Letter: We Owe Herman Sirois a Debt of Gratitude

I read with interest and some confusion the Letter to the Editor by James P. Ward published on July 31, regarding Herman Sirois’ resignation. I’m not sure what response Mr. Ward expected from the community. Rioting and/or rejoicing in the streets?

Letter: Ward Discusses Dr. Sirois’ Resignation

“Old soldiers never die - they just fade away.” was among the concluding comments of General Douglas MacArthur, on April 19, 1951, before a packed joint session of Congress. A week earlier, on April 11, 1951, President Harry S. Truman relieved MacArthur of his command as commander of United Nations forces for the General’s insubordination and unwillingness to conduct a limited war on the Korean peninsula. 

A Nassau We Can Afford

A recent column published in this paper completely missed the point about the race for Nassau County Executive. The 2009 campaign isn’t about who can raise and spend the most money; it’s about who is best able to govern our county for the next four years.

Legislative Majority Report

Tomato and Potato Gardeners Beware!

Last month, I wrote about all the wonderful Farmers’ Markets in our area. We are so fortunate to be able to buy fresh local produce and other assorted items from craftspeople who are our neighbors and friends.

Parenting Plus

Hello Dalai

The Dalai Lama and the New York State Senate

On May 9, 2009 Nobel Peace Prize laureate the Dalai Lama offered an invocation for the New York State Senate, calling for compassion during tough times. The 73-year old spiritual leader of Tibet spoke from the chamber floor about honesty and transparency and told the senators and spectators about his deep respect for American values. “This house,” he said, “I think demonstrates the American democratic system.” Ya think?