It’s the holiday season.And, that means the smell of Christmas trees is in the air. One of the things countless people look forward to each and every year is the beauty and smell of a fresh-cut evergreen tree in their homes.
Many of us will also be heading out to take to the stores looking for that holiday bargain. However you choose to do your holiday shopping this year, if you are still thinking about what to get those special people in your life, you may also consider shopping right in your own backyard at locally-owned farms and businesses.
A recent report published by the New York State Department of Labor indicates that employers are facing labor shortages as they seek workers to fill skilled trade jobs. The report states that these shortages are mainly due to baby boomers retiring. The demand for skilled labor represents a good opportunity for high school graduates and individuals seeking a career change to enter these fields and train for what are often high-paying jobs
As the year draws to a close, it is time for those in State Government to begin thinking about the state budget. Each year, New York State passes a budget for its fiscal year which begins April 1 and ends March 31. The budget process begins in mid-January when the Governor submits his budget proposal to the Legislature.
Now that winter weather has made its appearance across Central and Northern New York, motorists traveling on our roadways need to be prepared for the snow, ice and all other elements that make driving during the season hazardous. Everyone knows the unpredictability of winter weather conditions can make travel challenging for even the most experienced drivers.
With the holidays upon us, many community activities are in the works that will brighten the season. Volunteers and community organizations are planning to cook and serve warm holiday meals, coat and mitten drives are being organized, and others are coordinating the delivery of gifts to families for Christmas who are in need, to name a few.
The cold can take a toll on many of our most vulnerable, including senior citizens and those on low- or fixed-incomes, who find themselves struggling with whether to keep the heat on, or have the money to pay for other necessities.
On Nov. 18, nearly 600 people are expected to gather for the National Adoption Day Celebration at the OnCenter in Syracuse. This annual event draws people from throughout Central New York and is expected to finalize 55 adoptions. Family court judges from Oswego, Onondaga, Cayuga, Jefferson, Oneida and Herkimer will preside over the adoptions of residents from their respective counties.
It goes without saying that providing quality health care, including dental care, is critically important to the well-being and growth of children. However, in rural regions of our state accessing care can be a challenge.
The day was originally known as Armistice Day because it marked the end of hostilities of World War I – supposedly the war to end all wars. However, in 1954 after World War II and the Korean War, Congress, at the urging of veterans’ organizations, passed legislation to change Armistice Day to Veterans’ Day. It was envisioned that this day would be a day to honor America’s veterans for their love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
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