New York State Assemblyman Tom Alfano addressed the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce as they were making final preparations for their Fall Festival Celebration on Hempstead Turnpike, which recently took place.

Alfano lauded the work of the group and their place in the community. "All of you here tonight are very important to the success of this community," he said. "Your leadership in putting together events like the festival and holiday promotions are a source of community pride."

Alfano also discussed some local issues ranging from Franklin Square's share of record school aid to the district and a first in the nation state tax deduction for college tuition. "We have some great things happening right here in our community. I am glad to be your partner in this success," he said.

Alfano also awarded the chamber with a proclamation from New York State Governor George Pataki proclaiming the importance of small business in the New York State economy.

Chamber president Bruno Carracciolo accepted the award on behalf of the chamber.

At the Elmont Chamber of Commerce meeting, Alfano celebrated the success of the chamber's effort in Operation Clean Sweep Co-Op. The program, started approximately two years ago by Alfano, the chamber and Gateway Youth Outreach, is a success, according to some business and community leaders.

"The program gives young at-risk youth a job, shows them how to run a business, beautifies and cleans up Hemsptead Turnpike and instills community pride," said Alfano. "This program is a success because of people like GYO Director Pat Boyle and [chamber of commerce president] Paul Sapienza.

Alfano also presented the chamber with a mock state check for $5,000 for "Clean Sweep." Additionally, the assemblyman spoke about a grant attained by the work of the state legislative delegation for GYO for $125,000 a year for three years. "Organizations like the chamber and GYO are the lifeblood of Elmont. They work for the community and make it a better place. GYO lifts people up and gives them opportunity. That's why I'm so proud of their work here in Elmont."

The assemblyman also took time to discuss Elmont's receiving record school aid for the fifth straight year and praised the work of Elmont Schools Superintendent, Dr. Maria Palandra, and the members of the school board for their work with the school district.