Ritchie

From the up-close look at the latest in military technology to the incredibly inspiring speech from new 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Commander Major General Brian Mennes, I could not have been happier with the impact my eighth annual ‘10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day’ at the State Capitol had on my colleagues.

Recently, a group of students from the Phoenix Central School District came to Albany for a very special visit. These students, led by their teachers Carol Blackburn and Colleen Longley, had earlier come up with an idea to better help young people discuss, understand and even cope with mental health issues they may face.

Recently, Robin Phillips, the mother of a high school student in Oswego County called my office, upset with the fact that the new New York State budget eliminated $1 million in important funding to fight Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. As someone who has fought for years for support that has helped fight Lyme disease and raise awareness, I share her frustration.

When I spend time with my grandchildren, I often try to find activities for us to do that are not just fun, but also educational. In our region, we are fortunate enough to have a number of places families can go to enjoy a day together and learn something at the same time.

Did you know that in 2018, a record 74 million people visited New York State parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails? From hiking and fishing to golf and beaches, there’s something for everybody in the New York State parks system.

As technology improves, and becomes more mobile, the number of people using that technology while driving only continues to grow. That is why, during the month of April, the nation marks “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” – a time to raise awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, and teach people the importance of maintaining focus behind the wheel.

All across our state, there are brave people who are truly making a difference in our communities by protecting our families, friends and neighbors.Every single time these people, our volunteer firefighters, answer a call, they are putting their lives on the line to do so.

April is Donate Life Month, a time when we not only are asked to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation, but also encouraged to register to become a donor and perhaps, save a life. My family learned about the power of organ donation personally.

Every year, on April 22 the world comes together to celebrate our planet and highlight efforts to protect it for future generations. Since its first celebration in 1970, Earth Day has grown to reach nearly 200 countries.