Assemblywoman Russell Holding an Open House in Canton

Watertown, NY.  Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell is hosting an open house at her Canton office on Saturday December 1^st, from 11am to 3pm.  The purpose is to celebrate the completion of the downtown construction, and encourage people to come back to the downtown.

“Small business is the backbone of our economy.  These businesses in Canton have endured a tough period during the extensive construction,” said Russell.  “Now that it is complete for the season, I want to use this Open House as a way to let everyone know – we are all still here – and welcome the community back to our offices and the businesses.”

Assemblywoman Russell is also encouraging people to bring in book donations to the Open House for her annual ‘Addie’s Books for Children’ book drive.  Last year the drive collected over 4000 books that were given to needy children throughout St. Lawrence and Jefferson Counties.  Books are also being collected at local Kinney Drug Stores.

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Assemblywoman Addie Russell Kicks Off 2012 ABC Book Drive

Watertown, NY Assemblywoman Addie Russell announced the kick-off of her fourth annual book drive – Addie’s Books for Children commencing this week.  Kinney Drugs will again partner with her office by serving as the drop-off location for new or gently used books.  Every Kinney Drugs store in Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties will have a drop box that the community is invited to use.  People can also drop off books at bins in the Dulles State Office Building lobbies.

The books will be donated to the Community Action Planning Center in Jefferson County and the Community Development Program in St. Lawrence County.  Those agencies will then distribute the books to children and families in the respective counties. 

“I am pleased to be kicking off the annual book drive this holiday season.   For the past three years, we've been able provide the gift of reading by helping to put a book in every child’s hands.  This year we hope to reach 5000 book donations, which will be a wonderful milestone to achieve for 2012.”

Books will be accepted at Kinney Drugs stores until December 10^th. 

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Statement from Assemblywoman Addie Russell on assisting the victims of Hurricane Sandy

New York City, Long Island, and surrounding communities were devastated by Hurricane Sandy, which destroyed homes, displaced families, and knocked power out to nearly 2 million people.  During this time of great need, we in the North Country can best help our fellow New Yorkers by making a monetary donation to the American Red Cross. 

Red Cross relief efforts are right now providing food, shelter, emotional support and other assistance to those affected by Hurricane Sandy. To make a donation, visit www.redcross.org,  call 1-800-RED-CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 contribution to their cause.  The Red Cross is the most effective and efficient way to help our friends and relatives who live in the effected areas and I urge our North Country community to help.

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Assemblywoman Russell Statement on the Impending Storm

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, (D-Theresa) has issued the following statement on the impending storm:

“This is a serious situation. The weather is worsening every hour. The time for action is now. Residents across the North Country should be ready for high winds and excessive rain, which will likely cause downed trees, flooding and power outages for prolonged periods of time.  I urge everyone to act now – secure loose items and lawn furniture, and have supplies for staying in your home for several days if necessary.  People should have a radio, flashlights, batteries, and several gallons of water.  If the power does go out, try not to open your freezer.  That will preserve frozen food for at least 24 hours.  And please, check on your neighbor, especially the elderly, to make sure they are safe.  Also be cautious when using heating sources – make sure they are okay to use indoors. Stay away from downed wires.

“For up to date information, stay tuned to news sources, or you can go to www.nyalert.gov, or www.redcross.org for information on the latest situation in your area, or where emergency shelters are open.  If your power does go out, information will be available on the radio. 

“Again, this storm is unprecedented in magnitude and I ask everyone to be prepared and careful.”

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North Country Department Store: Buying local helps grow our economy!

The second annual “North Country Department Store” is Saturday, October 27, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Indian River Central School District’s Middle School, just off US Route 11 in Philadelphia.  As a part of my “Rediscovering Your Backyard” initiative, local business owners – artisans, farmers, food producers, antique dealers, shop owners and related organizations have been invited to create a department store filled with local products – just in time for the holiday shopping season. The event will benefit two local groups, Indian River Central School FFA and Noah’s Ark Pre-school, Redwood. Booth fees and door admissions will be divided between these organizations.  The organizations will be there to help with the event.

The department store will bring local businesses under one roof so that area residents can see just how much of their shopping they can do with local businesses. It will be similar to farmers markets, antique shows, craft shows, and artisan studio tours, but all at the same time. Come to start a wish list for yourself or to get started on your holiday shopping! There will be some children’s activities as well.

Last year’s department store was a tremendous success, bringing in over 60 businesses and hundreds of shoppers.  This year’s store is already shaping up to be just as big and diverse, with several new businesses participating.  There is still time for additional businesses to sign-up, but only for a couple more weeks.

Please contact one of my offices if you would like more information on the event or to register. You can reach my office by email at:  russella@assembly.state.ny.us or by telephone at (315) 786-0284 or (315) 386-2037. I cannot wait to see you there!