Honor Martin Douglas’ Legacy

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.