For the past several weeks, my colleagues and I have been digging in and getting to work at the Capitol; laying the groundwork for what I know will be a productive Legislative Session that builds upon our prior work to create more and better opportunities for the people of our state.
When it comes to crimes, there are few more heinous than human trafficking; a modern-day form of slavery where men, women and children are illegally traded or used against their will for exploitation or commercial gain. The number of people affected by human trafficking is staggering, as it’s estimated that more than 1,000 individuals in New York State are victims of the crime each year.
With someone being in need of blood every two seconds in the United States, giving blood is one of the easiest things you can do to help save lives. This month marks National Blood Donor Month for the American Red Cross, a time when the organization recognizes the contributions made by those who donate blood and encourages others to follow in their footsteps.
Did you know that New York State is home to more than 892,000 men and women who have served their country? These former members of our military have given and continue to give so much to defend our freedom and contribute to our local communities. That’s why it’s so important to provide them with the support that recognizes their many sacrifices. In 2015, new laws are going into effect that aim to do just that.
As your state senator, one of the biggest and most important parts of my job is representing your interests in Albany. With the 2015 Legislative Session beginning soon, I’m looking to you to weigh in on the major issues that are expected to come before my colleagues and I in the coming months. In an effort to accurately represent your interests, I’m inviting constituents in Jefferson, Oswego and St. Lawrence counties to take part in my 2015 Legislative Survey.
New Year’s Eve is a time to reflect on the past year and celebrate the 365 days to come. Whether you’re heading out to join friends and family or hosting a gathering in your own home, it’s important that you plan to stay safe as you ring in the New Year.
The Christmas season, it’s often referred to as the “most wonderful time of the year.” However, did you know it can also be one of the most dangerous? From fires sparked by unsafe lights to criminals looking to steal gifts, there are a number of threats that crop up this time of year.
When you shop at small businesses, the effects in your community are far reaching, with most of the money you spend and most of the taxes staying local. It’s estimated that for every $100 you spend at a local small business, roughly $70 goes back into your community.
For most, the holiday season is the busiest time of the year. Between the shopping, the baking and get-togethers with family and friends, there’s often little time for much else. However, this holiday season, I’m encouraging you to remember to give back to those in need. It’s estimated that roughly 34 percent of all charitable donations are made in the final three months of the year, with 18 percent of donations being made in December.
It goes without saying that children who spend time reading at home, whether alongside their parents or on their own, are ahead in classroom. In addition to succeeding at school, children who live in homes that focus on reading benefit in other ways too, as studies have shown they have longer attention spans, higher levels of self-confidence, better vocabularies and of course, a love of books.
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