Ritchie

In recent weeks, my colleagues and I have been hard at work crafting a new state budget that will help meet the needs of our state, and create new and better opportunities for all New Yorkers. Just last week, the Senate approved its 2017-18 one-house budget.

Libraries are more than just places to find books. They are centers of learning, culture and entertainment that exist in communities across our state. As the new chair of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries, I am doing my part to support local libraries and ensure that they can continue to provide the vitally important services countless patrons depend on.

Every March, people across our country come together to celebrate “Women’s History Month,” a time to recognize the contributions of women to American society. The United States began officially observing Women’s History Month in 1987, and since that time it has served as a way to celebrate the role of women who through their achievements have changed our country for the better.

There is only Earth, and as such, we all have a responsibility to protect it, not only for today, but also for future generations. One of the most important ways we can safeguard our planet, is by teaching young people the importance of taking steps to preserve it. This month, I am again launching my annual Earth Day Poster Contest.

If you are curious about how sap from a tree gets made into delicious maple syrup and other sweet treats, I encourage you to visit one of our local sugar houses in Central and Northern New York, which will be opening their doors for “Maple Weekend” on March 18 and 19 and again March 25 and 26.

According to recent statistics, that number increases every ten minutes, with more than 600 New York State residents losing their lives last year due to an organ not being available in time. Many people do not realize that when you sign up to become an organ donor, you are potentially saving lives.

Here in Central and Northern New York, our local libraries provide a wonderful place for students to use their imaginations to escape into the world of books, while helping them build upon their reading skills and knowledge at the same time.

We are fortunate to have more than 50 public libraries in Jefferson, Oswego and St. Lawrence counties – one of the largest concentrations in the state.

We owe a lot to the brave men and women who put their own personal health and safety on the line to protect us. That’s why just recently, I was proud to join with my Senate colleagues in approving a measure to help further protect the health of volunteer firefighters who become sick due to the hazards they face while serving their communities.

With more than 10,000 miles of snowmobiling trails available to explore in New York State – and especially throughout Central and Northern New York – many outdoor enthusiasts like myself spend a significant amount of time on their sleds during the winter months.