Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay

The success of local wineries was part of a collaborative effort that began in 1976, when New York state passed the Farm Winery Act. This helped spur the growth of New York State wine production. Since then, more than 200 farm wineries have been created and the amount of wineries has tripled.

According to the National Retail Federation’s holiday consumer spending survey, 53% of Americans have already started their holiday shopping. With the busy shopping season upon us, it’s a good idea to remember this: Buy Local.

The New York state Health Commissioner recently urged residents impacted by Hurricane Sandy to be aware that carbon monoxide (CO) can result from the improper use of alternate power sources.

During Veteran’s Day in November, we pause to honor our veterans and thank them for their many sacrifices. I wanted to make you aware of some legislative changes that took place this year in our state affecting veterans and their families.

Though the Olympic games were remarkable to watch, it was also exciting to see a New York manufacturer prominently advertised throughout the two-week period. Chobani Yogurt was a choice food for athletes at the Olympics, as Chobani decided to be an Olympic sponsor.

With the holidays approaching, many organizations will prepare food baskets. Food pantries across the state have begun to reach out to the community in hopes to have enough to stock the shelves for all in need. In Oswego County, there are 25 sites which distribute food listed on the State Department of Health’s website.

In the last legislative session, we passed a property tax cap. Largely, municipalities and school districts have stuck to the tax cap. According to a report from the Governor’s office that was issued in September, 81% of local governments that reported a proposed levy stayed within the cap and 92% of schools kept at or below the cap.

A new map and a new district number has been assigned to the area I represent in the State Assembly. These changes will take effect in January but some of you may notice a difference at the voting booth next month. Last year, new legislative lines were drawn after the 2010 Census. Every 10 years, by law, the state must readjust its district lines after the Census is completed.

The next general election will be held on Nov. 6.  Many changes have taken place in recent years when it comes to casting your vote, all in an effort to improve the process, make it more accurate and allow a voter with disabilities to privately and independently vote on a paper ballot.