Upcoming Jefferson County Fair highlights North Country’s rich agricultural heritage

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) today acknowledged hard work of the Jefferson County Fair Board as it readies for the kickoff of the 197^th Jefferson County Fair. The fair will be held July 8-13 in Watertown. Founded in 1817, the Jefferson County Fair is the oldest continuously operating fair in America and has attractions for the whole family. Activities include traditional carnival games and rides, agricultural photo contests and vegetable, poultry and livestock competitions.

            Russell noted that to help ensure this local tradition continues, the 2014-45 state budget increased funding for county fairs by $160,000 for a total of $500,000.

            “From its start, the Jefferson County Fair has been an opportunity for local farmers to showcase their work and the vital role it plays in our communities,” said Assemblyman Russell. “Agriculture is the backbone of the North Country economy and helping our farmers grow their businesses has been one of my top priorities this year.”

To help secure the future of family farms, Assemblywoman Russell fought for reforms to the estate tax, and helped restore nearly $9 million to critical programs like the New York Farm Viability Institute and Cornell University Farm Family Assistance (Farm Net). Additionally, the 2014-15 state budget established new protections for farmers who voluntarily provide information in participation with cattle health programs to help protect farmers from frivolous lawsuits.

            Assemblywoman Russell also sponsored a law that caps the increase of agricultural assessments at 2 percent per year to provide tax relief to farmers who have seen their property tax assessments rising at alarming rates (Ch. 385 of 2013). This legislative session, she authored and helped pass two bills to provide soil and water conservation districts with the authority needed to expand their work fighting invasive species and educating the public about environmental conservation (A.9131, A.9132). Soil and water conservation districts help ensure farmers’ land remains viable and profitable.

            “If you come to the fair, you will see that North Country agriculture is second to none and is an area of great potential growth,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “My priority has been to help lower the cost of doing business for our farmers so they can expand their businesses and create jobs.”

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Russell: Go fish for free this weekend

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) is encouraging everyone to take part in Free Fishing Weekend on June 28^th and 29^th and experience the North Country’s many world class fishing areas.

Free Fishing Days are part of the NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative, an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This initiative includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees and improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State.

“From the Grass River to Dexter Marsh or the St. Lawrence River, the North Country has some of the best fishing in North America,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “If you haven’t been out this year, now is the perfect time to dust off the tackle box, get to the water (don’t forget the bait!), and enjoy the natural riches that make the North Country so special.”

In support of New York’s sporting industry, this year’s budget included $6 million to support the creation of 50 new land and water access projects to connect hunters, anglers, bird watchers and others who enjoy the outdoors to more than 380,000 acres of state lands. The projects include construction of new boat launches, trails and parking areas and installation of new hunting blinds.

The budget also expands use of crossbows for hunting in New York State, reduces short-term fishing licenses fees and creates free Adventure Plates for new lifetime license holders, discounted Adventure Plates for existing lifetime license holders and regular fee Adventure Plates for annual license holders.

“Hunting and fishing are a way of life in the North Country and are crucial to supporting our tourism industry,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Investing in our outdoor resources and holding events like Free Fishing Days, ensures that current and future sportsmen and women can enjoy the bounty that the North Country has to offer.”

Assemblywoman Russell noted that last year she authored legislation extending the ability to fish with three lines simultaneously (Ch.121 of 2013). Having the option of fishing with three lines increases the odds of catching a fish and helps ensure anglers get the most out of their experience. Children and others who are new to the sport or who only have a limited number of opportunities to fish benefit from the increased likelihood of making a catch, Russell added.

For a listing of fishing programs at State Parks, including instructional programs and clinics, visit http://nysparks.com/events/

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Land bank legislation and Assembly Veteran Village proposal provides opportunity for Psych Center site

           Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation recently passed by the Assembly increasing the number of state land banks from 10 to 20 (A.8819) could provide an opportunity for  redevelopment of unutilized property on the grounds of the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center.

Land banks are not-for-profit corporations created to return vacant and abandoned property to productive use, in a manner consistent with the public interest. Sometimes the process entails short-term redevelopment; other times it means long-term assemblage and holding of real estate (land banking).

“A land bank would provide Ogdensburg with an effective means to finance acquisition of this land and put it to use generating new economic activity,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Any proceeds could be reinvested in the community to redevelop other blighted properties that burden the city.”

Additionally, Assemblywoman Russell noted that the Assembly has recently introduced new legislation creating a veteran's assistance program to coordinate mental health and substance abuse counseling, employment and job training, and housing assistance to veterans (A10145). The bill also creates the New York state veteran's village pilot program to identify veterans that are homeless or may soon be homeless and provide housing in a dormitory type housing until permanent housing can be provided.

The legislation, which has not been introduced in the Senate, stipulates that the services for veterans should be centralized in one facility. With its new status as a Regional Center of Excellence, an OASAS treatment services on the grounds, and the regional presence of VA clinics in Massena and Watertown, Assemblywoman Russell noted that the a facility on the grounds of St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center would be an ideal location for the program. 

“There is tremendous support for veterans in the North Country, including strong veterans advocates in Ogdensburg. The facilities are already in place that provide the services that will help them recover to a productive life,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Bringing this program to Ogdensburg would serve the high concentration of veterans in the area and create new jobs.”

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New legislation supports military families

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation she sponsored to ease some of the challenges facing military families has passed both houses of the legislature and awaits the governor’s signature (A.9216-A). The measure addresses school transfers that children with military parents face all to often. It also holds down college costs for veterans, provides burial assistance for families of veterans who die as a result of combat-related injuries and simplifies transfers of professional licenses for military family members, including those required for realtors.

            “Supporting our troops means supporting their families too,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “This legislation recognizes the extraordinary sacrifices made by military families and works to ease some of the hardships associated with the frequent relocations that are a part of military life.”

The legislation would enact the Interstate Compact on Education Opportunities for Military Children. The compact would help ensure uniform treatment of military children transferring between school districts and states by:

·         requiring a student’s transcripts and immunization records be made readily available to the new school;

·         helping to make it possible for students to graduate on time by providing alternative means of completing required coursework;

·         ensuring no local tuition would be charged to a transferring student whose parent serves in the military; and

·         ensuring that a child may continue attending school in a district after their military parent has transferred out of the district.

“Many of the areas addressed in the Interstate Compact are areas that the local Districts who are experienced in servicing military children from Fort Drum deal with on a day-to-day basis. Those Districts have been taking on the problems associated with recurrent deployments; the frequent movement of military families; the variances of State graduation requirements and much more, for years.  This legislation helps codify all of those efforts and more, so military children have the best possible opportunity for a successful education experience” said Carl McLaughlin, Executive Director of the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization. “This will also provide New York State schools a forum to share problems and needs that can be addressed with schools in many other military communities now that we are part of the Compact, it’s a win-win for all.”

BOCES Superintendent Jay Boak said, “The eighteen (18) school districts that comprise the Jefferson-Lewis-Hamilton-Herkimer-Oneida Board of Cooperative Educational Services are gratified that Assemblywoman Russell along with the other members of the New York State Assembly and Senate voted to approve legislation enabling New York State to become a member of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This legislation removes some of the impediments that military families encounter when they transfer from state to state. It is not uncommon for military children to transfer to five or six different states or countries during the course of their K-12 education. The Compact Legislation will make this a more seamless and less stressful process for military families.”  

            Further, the legislation would enable veterans attending a community college, college or university of the SUNY or CUNY systems under the GI bills to qualify for the in-state tuition rate. This would enable more veterans to attend college and obtain a degree when they return home, Assemblywoman Russell noted.

The measure would also allow families of service members from New York, who were wounded in combat but died as a result of their wounds outside of the combat zone, to qualify for the supplemental burial allowance. This provision would help cover expensive funeral and burial costs.

            Additionally, this legislation would make it possible for military family members who hold out-of-state licenses to qualify for a New York State license in certain occupations or professions that are licensed by the Department of State. This would enable military household members to continue their practices as real estate brokers, cosmetologists or barbers should they relocate to New York State.

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Enjoy and be safe this graduation weekend

Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D-Theresa) congratulates all of the high school seniors who graduated last weekend or will be graduating this weekend. Graduating from high school is truly a milestone in a student’s life and graduation ceremonies and celebrations are part of the experience.

The Assemblywoman is also reminding everyone to be safe during this weekend of high school graduation parties. Graduation weekend can be an especially hazardous time to be on the road with increased traffic and the potential for alcohol related accidents.

“The upcoming weekend is a busy one for graduation parties with lots of out of town visitors and younger drivers out on the road,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Let’s all do our part to encourage safe driving – whether on the way to ceremonies or leaving parties.”

With numerous graduation parties occurring around the North Country this weekend, Assemblywoman Russell urged everyone to avoid driving if they have been drinking.  

“Though it is a time to celebrate, celebrations can turn into tragedies if you get behind the wheel after drinking,” Assemblywoman Russell said.  “If you plan to drink or are tired, please find a designated driver and if you don’t have one, call a friend or family member to pick you up.”

Graduation season is an exceptionally dangerous time for teen drivers, occurring during days between Memorial Day and Labor Day known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers. Over these days in 2012, nearly 1,000 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers, and more than 550 of those killed were teens, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data analyzed by the nonprofit National Safety Council.[1]

             Parents looking for more information on keeping your child safe on the road this summer can visit http://www.driveithome.org/

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[1] http://www.nsc.org/Pages/Summer-Driving-Deadliest-for-Teens.aspx

Assemblywoman Russell supports new, tighter medical marijuana legislation

            “The goal for me has always been to reach a compromise that gives comfort to seriously ill patients while protecting law abiding citizens. The legislation passed today is a big step forward that provides comfort to those suffering from debilitating illnesses while implementing smart regulations to minimize risks to patients and caregivers. By limiting the form in which this medicine can be prescribed and tightly controlling its production and purchase, this legislation strikes the right balance between compassion and common sense.”

Russell supports reforms to Common Core evaluations

“One thing that we can all agree on is that the implementation of Common Core has been a disaster that has failed to improve the quality of education our students receive. Earlier this year, after hearing concerns of parents and students, we passed reforms to lessen the burden of Common Core testing on our children. Today we continued those reforms to ensure teachers and principals are not unfairly punished for the poor performance of state officials.” 

Assemblywoman Russell’s bill to increase access to telehealth services passes Assembly

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced legislation she authored to expand the availability of telehealth services has passed the Assembly (A.9129-A).

            The bill would require insurers to cover telehealth services for policy holders, bringing much-needed health care to rural and underserved communities. The legislation would also require Medicaid to reimburse telehealth service costs, ensuring that seniors and those in need also have access to this highly beneficial and oftentimes cost saving form of care.

“Here in the North Country, long distances and unpredictable weather make access to quality healthcare a challenge,” Assemblywoman Russell said.  “By expanding telehealth, families and seniors will have better access to primary and specialty care without driving hours to the nearest facility, and provides savings to the healthcare system.”

           

Denise Young, Executive Director at Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization said, “We could not be more pleased.  This is truly a monumental step forward in our healthcare systems’ ability to take care of the people of the North Country. The use of telemedicine will improve access and integration of healthcare across the entire region.”

            Telehealth is a rapidly expanding field that can provide health care and medical advice at a distance using technology. Doctors and health care professionals can be on-call at all times and ready to answer patient questions, diagnose illnesses or recommend in-person treatment, while the patient is in a more convenient location.

David C. Johnson, Certified Telehealth Liaison at North Country Healthcare Providers said, “Tremendous news!  This is important legislation that will overcome significant barriers to obtaining vital healthcare services, especially across the more rural areas of the State.”

            The legislation was informed by recommendations of the North Country Health Systems Redesign Commission, of which Assemblywoman Russell has been a member since its formation in late 2013. The Commission was tasked with creating an effective, integrated health care delivery system for preventative, medical, behavioral, and long term care services to all communities throughout the North Country.

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Lucrative St. Lawrence Power Agreement Passes Assembly

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation enabling the monetization of 20 megawatts of hydropower and creating a new development fund to promote economic development in the North Country has passed the Assembly (A.10093). The legislation, sponsored by Assemblywoman Russell, is the culmination of years of continuous negotiations between stakeholders and community leaders.

            “This is the final piece needed to put this incredible asset to full use in bringing desperately needed economic development to the North Country,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Now is the time to get down to the business of putting these assets to use attracting new, good jobs to St. Lawrence County.”

            The legislation allows for the sale of unutilized hydropower from the St. Lawrence-Franklin D. Roosevelt Hydroelectric Plant to be used for economic development in St. Lawrence County. Under the legislation, up to 20 MW of power will now be able to be sold in the wholesale electricity market, with revenue generated from these sales utilized for economic development projects throughout St. Lawrence County.

The bill creates the Northern New York Power Proceeds Allocation Board which will be tasked with recommending the awards from the funds. The board will consist of five members three of which must reside in St. Lawrence County.

            Assemblywoman Russell played a key role in securing the initial contract in 2009 which set aside the 20 megawatts of development power and has worked to bring stakeholders from around the county together to reach an agreement on monetization that will move St. Lawrence County forward.

             “With this agreement in place, we can begin to look to the future and make the investments in job growth and infrastructure that strengthen our communities for ourselves and our children,” Russell concluded.

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Russell bill to expand biofuel production passes Assembly

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell announced that legislation she authored to expand tax credits to include biofuels produced from products that are abundant in the North Country passed the Assembly (A.9525). The bill is aimed at bolstering the biofuel industry in the North Country and providing a new source of income for local farmers and other industries.

                                             

            “The demand for cleaner, cheaper power is strong and is an area of huge potential growth for the North Country,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “By utilizing resources like wood and agricultural waste, North Country businesses can lead the way in creating a new industry in New York that keeps our fuel dollars here instead of shipping them overseas.”

The legislation expands a business tax credit to biofuel producers. Current law provides a credit of $0.15 per gallon of biofuel (B100) produced. The legislation passed today adds an additional credit of $0.25 per gallon of cellulosic ethanol or renewable fuel oil produced and provides a new credit of $15 per ton of densified biofuel.

Densified biofuel is solid fuel derived by a mechanical densification and refining of biomass sourced from woody or agricultural feedstocks, such as wood pellets used commonly in the North Country.  Manufacturers of wood pellets may now be eligible for the tax credit.  Pellet stoves and boiler systems have become increasingly popular ways to heat homes and commercial and governmental buildings. 

            Pat Curran of Curran Renewable Energy in Massena said, “This bill is a strong step forward in enhancing the business climate of the St. Lawrence Valley and counties throughout New York State. It will give land owners an opportunity to see value in their low-grade timber crops that they have been growing. The tax bill that Addie Russell supports will help job growth in numerous ways beyond the agricultural and forest sectors. It will help create stability and a bright future in an evolving market.”

Eric Carlson President & CEO of the Empire State Forests Products Association said, "This legislation strikes at the heart of helping homeowners, schools, and businesses converting from imported fossil fuels to locally sourced wood heating. New York has abundant forests that need these markets to improve forest health using sustainable forest practices"

Cellulosic ethanol is ethanol produced from biomass feedstocks not used for food production, including cellulosic components of separated food waste and byproducts from agricultural waste.  Such biomass feedstocks may include include switch grasses, willows, agricultural and forestry residues, clean wood and waste woods, pulp and paper mill wastes or extracts, and non-recyclable paper.

“We already have companies in the North Country producing these kinds of products that will be able to expand and create jobs as the market grows,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “This legislation is the boost needed to help this innovative domestic industry compete against traditional fossil fuels.”

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Russell statement on UTV legislation

           The legislation I have been pushing in the assembly to allow for certain UTVs to weigh more than regular ATVs (A.4971), so that they can be registered at the DMV, has drawn significant opposition.  While the bill was reported out of the Transportation Committee and then out of the Codes committee, the opposition prevented the bill from being considered by the Ways and Means Committee.  My bill has made it further than any bill of this kind in the Assembly in many years and it will continue to be one of my top priorities moving forward.

          In an attempt to further the increased weight issue after it had stalled, I proposed an amendment to my bill to spur a dialogue between the ATV community and environmental advocate groups.  The amendment was well received by the advocates, but in the end, they were unable to reach consensus to move forward at this time.  The proposed amendment has been taken off the table, meaning our work will need to continue in order to gain approval of the heavier side-by-side UTV's.

          However, the dialogue over the last few days has moved the UTV issue even further along in the legislative process.  There have been valuable discussions, and commitments by all involved to continue to work on addressing the issues important to everyone, and some common ground has been found.  

          While there have been many people working on this issue with me, I would like to acknowledge the St. Lawrence Legislature's work on this matter, being a driving force on tackling these challenging issues.  We have made significant progress this year which may allow us to address several other related topics as a result of my offer to work with those opposed to this bill.

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Russell bill extends marriage rights to Native Americans

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation to remedy injustice within state marriage law by extending the right to solemnize marriages to officials on Indian reservations received final approval by the Senate (A.9315). The bill passed the Assembly in early May.

            Current law enables a host of religious, secular and governmental officials to solemnize marriages for New Yorkers, but limits this authority to one, vaguely defined Tribal official, enumerated in current law as “peacemakers”.

            “This is about respect for our tribal officials and their culture. The law that was on the books was from a different time and does not afford tribal leaders the rights they deserve,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “This legislation brings the law into the 21^st century and provides officials on reservations with the same authority given to countless officials in the state.”

            The bill, which now heads to the governor for his signature, confers the right to solemnize marriages to a judge or peacemaker judge of any Indian tribal court, a chief, a headman, or any member of any tribal council or other governing body of any nation, tribe, band or any other persons duly designated by such body.           

           

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Assembly passes legislation giving volunteer fire companies tools they need to keep sex offenders out

              Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation she sponsored to provide volunteer fire departments with the legal tools they need to keep registered sex offenders from joining their ranks passed the Assembly (A.2318). The legislation provides volunteer fire departments with the necessary mandate to prevent level 1, 2, and 3 sex offenders from joining.

            “Our volunteer firefighters are exceptional members of our communities who risk their lives and dedicate their time on our behalf,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “They have asked for, and deserve, this legislation to provide them with the legal tools necessary to ensure that they can maintain the integrity with which they have served our communities for years.”

 As volunteer firefighters often interact with children and individuals who are in vulnerable situations, it is vital that they have a clear cut way to identify sex offenders. Current labor law only provides for the use of background checks to determine if applicants have been convicted of arson.

            Under the legislation, prospective volunteer firefighters would be required to authorize a background check for sex offense convictions if the individual wishes to proceed with his or her application. The bill now heads to the governor for his approval.

“Background checks today are simple and are a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing our children and vulnerable members of society can trust our first responders,” Assemblywoman Russell said.

           

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St. Lawrence power proceeds agreement to jumpstart economic development

“I am pleased that St. Lawrence County will now be able to realize the benefits of the monetized value of the 20 megawatts. This unique opportunity for St. Lawrence County will provide much needed economic development dollars. The agreement, creating $2 million per year through the monetization of power, opens the door to new infrastructure, new business development and expansion, creating critical new jobs that are key to vitality and growth in the county.”

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Assemblywoman Russell helps pass legislation to combat invasive species

Assemblywoman Russell helps pass legislation to combat invasive species

Increase outreach and education

            Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that legislation she authored to help fight the spread of invasive species and bolster soil and water conservation education has passed the Assembly (A.9132 and A.9131). The bill makes needed updates to the Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law to reflect their evolving role in the battle against invasive species and as conservation educators.

The legislation was crafted by the Commission on Rural Resources of which Assemblywoman Russell is the Chair. The Commission develops policies and programs to address the unique needs of rural communities, individuals, businesses, local governments, service providers and others.

“Good stewardship of our natural resources is not only a moral responsibility but an economic responsibility,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Our waters attract thousands of visitors every year and our soil supports our agricultural industry. These resources are critical to our economy and our way of life.”

Invasive species pose a significant threat to the North Country by degrading natural habitats, displacing or eradicating native species and contaminating waters, forests and farms. Assembly bill 9132 provides statutory authority for Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) to continue measures focused on identification, eradication, prevention and education.

Paul Hetzler, Horticulture and Natural Resources Educator at Cornel Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County said, “A number of invasive species, most notably emerald ash borer and giant hogweed, represent an imminent and substantial threat to both the economy of northern New York State and the health of its residents. Even a potential threat such as the Asian longhorned beetle requires active prevention measures, as this pest would bring an end to northern New York State’s maple industry and greatly reduce its timber production. Given these realities, Cornell Cooperative Extension supports all legislative measures that enable, empower, or authorize other agencies in the natural resources domain to further their work in the prevention and control of invasive species. CCE is eager to continue working with partner agencies in the fight against invasive species.”

In addition to their efforts to combat invasive species, SWCDs play a significant role in educating the public about soil and water conservation. Currently, 20% of the state's SWCDs have Environmental Educators on staff. Assembly bill 9131 solidifies this role by authorizing them to undertake public information and education programs relating to water and soil conservation.

Dawn C. Howard, Conservation District Manager, St. Lawrence County Soil and Water Conservation District said, “This legislation will provide legislative authority to SWCDs for providing this service, therefore, recognizing conservation education as a practice that can stand alone in the protection of natural resources.  It will legitimize programs and the value of education that cannot be understated as an important tool in preserving and protecting NY’s soil, water and other natural resources.”

SWCDs educate both youth and adults regarding conservation issues. Many programs are disseminated through elementary and high school education programs, which inspire young people to be environmental stewards at an early age. Education programs include conservation tours, pasture walks, conservation award programs and dissemination of information on identifying and mitigating invasive species.

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Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell honors women veterans

June 11, 2014

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell honors women veterans

          Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that the Assembly passed a commemorative resolution declaring June 12 as “Women Veterans Recognition Day” in New York (K.1343). Assemblywoman Russell also honored the brave women veterans who have served our country by hosting a luncheon in the Legislative Office Building in Albany to discuss issues that impact female members of the military.

            Women Veterans Recognition Day coincides with the 65^th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Act of 1948. Signed into law by President Harry S. Truman, the law ensured that women would have a permanent place in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.

           

            “Women have played a crucial but often unseen role in defending our freedom for generations. From field nurses to four star generals, women have served bravely and earned the respect and admiration of their fellow soldiers and a grateful nation. Today we recognize and honor the unflinching courage and enduring sacrifice of the women who fought to protect our values and our way of life,” Assemblywoman Russell said.

           

Across all branches of the Armed Forces, there are over 63,800 women veterans from New York State. Currently, women make up nearly 15 percent of our active duty military and as of 2009, 15.5 percent of the officers across the four military branches are women. In January 2013, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta announced that the military would be lifting the policy against women in combat roles, marking a major advancement in policy. Further, in April 2013, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs launched a new hotline to assist women veterans, their families and caretakers (1-855-VA-WOMEN).

In February of this year, the Assembly passed legislation authored by Assemblywoman Russell requiring that veteran organizations direct assistance to veterans who experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST) during their military service (A.7086). The legislation awaits passage by the state Senate. As the chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Women Veterans and a member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Assemblywoman Russell has tirelessly fought to promote policies that support veterans.

“As the role of women in our armed forces continues to evolve, so do the needs of women veterans,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Gatherings like the one we had today are opportunities to not only recognize veterans for their service, but to continue the dialogue about how we can best serve them.”

In honor of women past and present who have served our country, Assemblywoman Russell also encourages everyone to visit the New York State Women Veterans Memorial located on Madison Avenue and South Swan Street in Albany, near the New York State Museum.

           

 

Barbara Beebe, left, a United States Air Force veteran, spoke at the Women Veterans luncheon hosted by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D- Theresa). The luncheon coincided with a resolution passed today by the Assembly proclaiming June 12 as “Women Veterans Recognition Day” in the State of New York.