Last week, at H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square, New York State Assemblyman Tom Alfano held a meeting with an 11th grade American History class in a format similar to that of the last presidential debate. Alfano answered any questions students may have had in a town hall format. The students showed why they were in an advanced placement class by asking intelligent, well thought out questions and raising important concerns.

Alfano spoke about such issues as the legislative process, the fiscal situation of Nassau County and the presidential race.

"We are three weeks away from an important election that will change the course of U.S. history," Alfano told the students as he discussed both the senate and presidential election.

The assemblyman also talked about George Pataki's tenure as Governor of New York State. New York, he said, used to be the highest taxed state. Pataki's goal, he said, was to lower taxes thereby promoting business in New York. This improved the state's economy.

Alfano also stated to the students that it is a good time to be young and a good time to be thinking about college. He reiterated a law that now makes up to $10,000 a year of college tuition tax deductible without a restriction on what schools a student can attend. This law makes college more affordable and also may help students attend the college of their choice.

Alfano also talked about the legislative process and how it is important for both Republicans and Democrats to work together to get certain laws that make common sense passed. He said the diversity of ideas in the New York State Assembly is incredible.

As his number one priority, Alfano lists education, calling it "the great equalizer."

"If you're not educated, you can't compete," he said, adding that the United States is highly competitive so education is necessary.

Since school taxes are such a big part of a resident's tax bill, it is important students receive a good education.

Alfano also talked about the fiscal state of Nassau County. The main reason, he said, that the county is facing fiscal difficulties, is because taxes weren't raised a little at a time to meet increasing costs. As a result, Nassau residents are facing a bigger tax increase in order to make up for the years taxes weren't raised.

One of the reasons Alfano believes it is important to visit schools and talk with students is to break the idea of apathy among some young people about government. He encouraged students to get involved. "You shouldn't be intimidated to make your opinions known," he told the students.

Alfano then took questions from the students on a variety of subjects. One student raised a question having to do with a superfund site on New Hyde Park Road in Franklin Square that has been ignored. Alfano stated that he was not aware of the site. However, he said one of his main responsibilities, as an elected official, is to listen to and address the concerns of the residents in his district. He encourages anyone with any concerns to call his office and let him know about any problems.

Another student raised a concern about teenage drug use. The student pointed out there are young people at various dance clubs where there is drug activity. This issue has been explored recently by reports of young people using the drug ecstasy. Alfano again encouraged students to call his office. He said they could even write him an anonymous letter. He said he has a relationship with the police department and would work with them. "I promise you I'll do something about it," he said, adding that he needs to know what is going on and that the residents of a district many times are its eyes and ears.

One student asked a question about people seen taking pictures of homes with digital cameras. Alfano explained that the county is in the process of undergoing a reassessment. The former formula was deemed to be archaic and so some taxpayers, depending on where they live, are paying either too little or too much taxes. Reassessment, he said, will supposedly put in place a more fair system. Alfano said he thinks Franklin Square won't be affected that much by the reassessment. However, a community such as Garden City will probably have to pay more taxes once reassessment is completed.

Alfano said it was a good year in New York State for gun safety legislation, citing a series of bills that were signed into law by Governor Pataki. He said schools should be safe havens and will work to prevent school violence.

Alfano then took a picture with the class and thanked their teacher, Mr. Gavin Schwen for allowing him to come.

Alfano also was able to secure a $5,000 state grant that was given to H. Frank Carey High School to purchase a printer that will be able to make posters.