Assemblyman Tom Alfano welcomed Senator Hillary Clinton to Nassau County for a brunch that was held where young people invited by Alfano from the Elmont community listened to remarks about public service and challenges that the country faces in the global economy. The brunch speech was held in conjunction with 50 leaders in the business and legal community from Nassau and Suffolk County at Carltun on the Park at Eisenhower Park.

Clinton's remarks outlined continuing efforts to promote business efficiency and using computer technology in the business world as well as education issues. In addition, Senator Clinton discussed the introduction of new technologies in the health sciences. In her speech, she highlighted the work and roles that Assemblymembers Tom DiNapoli and Tom Alfano have held on the state level promoting smart growth and environmental issues while encouraging business.

"Senator Clinton's speech touched upon areas that our local schools and State are taking a keen interest in science and math," said Alfano who noted, "the give and take during the brunch was not only informative, but helped give a sense of where the federal government is going in promoting new technologies and participation in emerging world markets." Alfano noted locally his partnership with Elmont Memorial High School Principal Al Harper in his recent announcement of a new $10,000 science research technology grant at Elmont Memorial High School. "The objective is to prepare our young people not only for higher education but promote new areas of study where our economy is booming and new discoveries are being made every day."

Alfano also introduced Clinton to young people from the Elmont community he invited to the event who have been part of his signature "Mentors and Leaders Program." Elmont student leaders Randall Clarke, a sophomore at Queens College, Marcus Johnson, a junior at Elmont Memorial High School, Casey Mack, a senior at Elmont Memorial High School, Wil Trye, a freshman at Cortland State University, Raquel Feurtado, a freshman at Queens College, Darrius Lawson, a freshman at NYU, Steve Theodore, and Jamal Harrison participated in the brunch with business leaders and officials from around Long Island. Joining Alfano at the event were Assemblyman Tom DiNapoli, County Assessor Harvey Levinson, Suffolk County District Attorney Thomas Spota and Stonybrook University President Shirley Strum Kenny.

During Senator Clinton's speech, she noted her efforts at attracting young people into public service. Locally, she noted Assemblyman Alfano's mentoring program and how young people will have many roles in emerging global economy and issues of the day. "Programs like Assemblyman Alfano's which encourage young people to get involved in public service in order to make a difference needs to be encouraged and supported," said Clinton.

Alfano added, "to make change, you need to care, work hard, listen and act."