Huntington Student Testifies on Alcohol and Tobacco Product Placement

A Huntington student from Woodhull Intermediate School spoke before the Suffolk County’s Health Committee on Thursday, Nov. 20, about alcohol and tobacco product placement.

Evan Martinez,12, shared his observations on where tobacco and alcohol products are placed in convenience stores and gas stations.

“I’ve noticed that cigarette and alcohol ads are placed at my eye level to attract kids and make us curious,” Martinez said. “I think they do this on purpose to get more customers.”

Katherine Pullows, Evan’s mother, said the family was “honored to participate and have a voice regarding such important matters that affect young lives. It was an experience that I hope Evan will carry with him through life. The knowledge that we can change the world through education, dialogue and the shared idea is a lesson for life.”

Leg. William Spencer praised Martinez for sharing his views.

“You are a brave young man for coming forward today and speaking up so articulately,“ Spencer said. “You show maturity beyond your years.”

The middle school student’s testimony coincided with the 25th anniversary of the United Nations’ adoption of a charter called the “Convention on the Rights of the Child,” . November 20th is also Suffolk County Day of the Child, a day to raise awareness on children’s issues.

Image: From left-to-right Stephen Martinez, Sophia Martinez, Katherine Pullows, Leg. Martinez, Leg. Spencer, Leg. Browning, Leg. Calarco and Evan Martinez