Assemblywoman Russell promotes scholarship program for students in STEM

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A new scholarship program was created in New York State this year for high-achieving students planning to enter a career in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM). The program allows high school students in the top 10 percent of their graduating class to earn full-tuition for four or five year programs at a SUNY school, provided they keep their grades up and work and live in New York for five years after graduation in a STEM-related field. 

“The North Country is home to many high-tech industries and world-class universities,” Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said. “This scholarship is an excellent opportunity that I hope many driven young people will take advantage of so they can write the next chapter of development in the region.”

Today, many of the best-paying, most secure jobs are STEM-related, and these opportunities continue to multiply. In New York State, STEM jobs are expected to grow 14 percent between 2014 and 2024, while other jobs will grow just 9 percent (vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/new-york/demand#fields-growing). Yet employers struggle to fill these positions because there are more jobs than there are workers qualified to do them, which hurts our state’s businesses (brookings.edu/research/interactives/2014/job-vacancies-and-stem-skills#/M10580).

“In the long-run, this scholarship will benefit all New Yorkers as we encourage and cultivate tomorrow’s industry leaders and secure a bright economic future,” Russell said.

For more information or to apply for this scholarship, visit the program’s website: www.hesc.ny.gov/stem

Russell proposes Public Benefit Corporation model for Massena Memorial Hospital

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An alternative to privatization that would give Massena Memorial Hospital greater business flexibility while allowing workers to remain in their current bargaining units, is being put forth by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa. The plan would turn the hospital into a public benefit corporation, similar to what other hospitals across the state facing financial difficulties have done.

“I’m skeptical that privatization is in the best interest of the hospital or the town of Massena,” Russell said. “However, I recognize the financial stress Massena Memorial Hospital faces and I believe the creation of a public benefit would give the hospital and the community a viable path forward.”

The plan has the support from the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), the union representing the majority of the hospital’s workers.

“Our workers have always been in support of any method that would maintain community control and accountability for our hospital’s healthcare services. We believe conversion to a public benefit corporation would secure Massena Memorial’s future,” said CSEA Central Region President Colleen Wheaton.

“Overall, privatization threatens the very public services residents rely on,” said Jill Furillo, RN, Executive Director for the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA). “NYSNA members applaud Assemblywoman Russell’s efforts to maintain access to public health care throughout the community.”

A public benefit corporation would give the hospital greater authority to raise funding to improve the hospital’s operations while ensuring workers remain employees of the town with all their benefits. 

“I will advance this legislation so the hospital can get on with the important work of saving lives, caring for the community, and finding innovative solutions to the health care needs of the North Country,” Russell said.

Farm to School Roundtable focuses on simple, powerful changes to state law and funding structures

Simple but powerful tweaks to state law and funding structures could be a boon to local farms, economy and school districts according to participants at a roundtable hosted by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, on Wednesday.

The roundtable, co-hosted by the chairs of the Assembly committees on Education and Agriculture, featured school administrators, farmers, and representatives from food banks, both from the local community and other regions of the state, among others, speaking about ways to streamline the process of getting farm-fresh food on trays in front of students.

Assemblyman Al A. Stirpe, D-Cicero, member of the Assembly Agriculture Committee, also attended.

"Giving our students the quality, local food they deserve is a top priority for me," Russell, who serves as Chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Food, Farm, and Nutrition, said. "There are common-sense changes we can make to state law and funding structures that would radically improve the food we give to our students."

A significant increase in state funding for school lunches - from about $.06 currently to $.31 per lunch - tied to incentives for buying locally produced food would stimulate the local agricultural industry, Russell said.

"This funding model would especially benefit North Country schools thanks to our vibrant agricultural sector that is engaged in this type of activity," Russell said.

Russell is also continuing to push legislation she introduced to enable schools to source food from small collectives of local farmers without requiring a time-consuming waiver from the state Commissioner of education (A.6182). The legislation would encourage schools to collaborate with local farmers.

"I will be aggressively pushing this legislation in 2016," Russell said. "I look forward to continuing to work with partners in the educational and agricultural fields, in addition to my colleagues in the state legislature, to ensure our students and farmers are given the support they need to thrive in New York State."

Russell applauds decision to open military combat roles to women

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, applauds the recent decision by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter to open combat roles in the military to women: 

"Opening up all combat roles to capable women from across the United States is a landmark decision that bodes well for the future of our military. As Chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Women Veterans and as a resident of the Fort Drum community, I am frequently in touch with many of the brave women who serve our nation. Their willingness to serve and their dedication to their mission demonstrates to me that opening up combat roles based solely on ability, not gender, will only strengthen our military. This is a proud day for America."

Read more on Vox at: http://www.vox.com/2015/12/3/9844404/women-military-combat-no-exceptions

Russell to host roundtable on bringing more local food to school cafeterias

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, with the chairs of the Assembly committees on Agriculture and Education, is hosting a roundtable discussion in Watertown on overcoming barriers to getting more local farm products into our school lunch programs.

Russell, chair of the Assembly Task Force on Food, Farm, and Nutrition Policy, said this issue is especially important to North Country farmers and school officials because of the particular needs of small, family farmers and rural school districts.

“Enabling smaller farmers and rural districts to work together to bring local food into the cafeteria doesn’t just make good economic sense,” Russell said, “it’s also a great way to promote good nutrition and an awareness of the importance of the agricultural industry.”

The roundtable discussion will bring together representatives of schools, agriculture, food businesses, academia, and the relevant government agencies to examine the barriers and opportunities for increasing the amount of locally-sourced, New York farm products found in schools across the state. With nearly 480 million meals served annually to New York children through the National School Lunch and Breakfast program - which provides more than $1 billion in federal reimbursements and more than $30 million in state reimbursements to school districts - the potential for increased purchases of New York grown, produced, and processed foods is significant.

“In New York we have world-class agricultural products and farmers who are tireless in their efforts to provide for their neighbors across the state,” Russell said. “What we need now is to make it easier for those farmers to work with schools to give our children access to that high-quality food. I’m excited by the opportunity to meet with stakeholders on this issue and work on real solutions that will better position New York’s farmers and students for the future.”

The roundtable discussion will be held on Dec. 9 in the first floor meeting room of the Dulles State Office Building, 317 Washington Ave., Watertown. Please contact Russell’s office for more details at (315) 786-0284 or (518) 455-5545.

Assemblywoman Russell bill to support Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority signed into law by Gov. Cuomo

 

A bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will grant the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority access to a larger pool of investment funds, was signed into law by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo today (A.5651a)

The Authority, which is responsible for the Ogdensburg International Bridge, Airport, and Port, among various other enterprises, has for years operated under an outdated bonding rule that hamstrung efforts to raise funds for new projects.

With the Governor’s signature, the Authority will be able to bond for upgrades at the International Airport and Bridge, options that come at a crucial time for the economy of Ogdensburg and the North Country at large.

“The on-going expansion of the Ogdensburg International Airport is an important element in a multi-faceted effort to bring more people to the North Country and anything we can do to support this endeavor is worth exploring,” Russell said. “At the Ogdensburg International Bridge there is immense need for upgrades and refurbishment that this legislation will address. With a modernized ability to bond, the Authority will have an expanded ability to qualify for and manage larger infrastructure grants going forward.”

Russell stressed the important role the Authority plays in maintaining economic ties with Canada, America’s largest trading partner.

“Canadian markets are an important source of revenue for the North Country, the state, and the nation,” Russell said. “I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation and want to thank Governor Cuomo for recognizing how important the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority is to the North Country.”

“The Authority greatly appreciates the Assemblywoman Russell's assistance updating the Authority's bonding legislation. Assemblywoman Russell and our state representatives have been resilient advocates for economic growth and development here in the North County. They have been terrific partners throughout this entire process,” said OBPA Executive Director Wade A. Davis. “The Ogdensburg International Airport expansion will undoubtedly result in job creation, increased tourism and an overall promotion of regional transportation capabilities."

Assemblywoman Russell applaud's Governor Cuomo's stance on upstate infrastructure investments

Speaking to reporters in Rochester on Wednesday Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said upstate infrastructure investments need parity with downstate investments. Read more here.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, applauds the Governor's stance.

"I’m encouraged to hear Governor Cuomo supports upstate infrastructure investments," Russell said. "New York is at its best when all regions are treated fairly, and bringing parity to the state’s infrastructure funding will spur economic growth by linking upstate producers to downstate markets and encouraging downstate tourists to explore more of the state. I’ve supported a five-year funding commitment that would allow businesses and governments to perform much needed, long-term planning while expanding employment opportunities in communities that desperately need new, well-paying jobs. I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues in the State Legislature to give New York’s economy a much needed boost."


 

7th Annual Addie's Books for Children initiative gets underway

As the holiday season gets underway, Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, is teaming up with Kinney Drugs to provide books to children across the North Country.

The 7th annual Addie’s Books for Children drive is looking for new or gently used books for kids up to 12 years old.

“It’s important that every child is exposed to the joy of reading at an early age,” Russell said. “I’m extremely proud that over the last six years we’ve been able to donate more than 20,000 books to North Country children. I look forward to encouraging holiday reading as a tradition, and I hope more people from across the region will join me.”

Drop-off locations are located at every Kinney Drugs store and both of Russell’s district offices:

Watertown:

Dulles State Office Building, Suite 201

317 Washington Street

Watertown NY 13601

Canton:

3 Remington Avenue, Suite 1

Canton NY 13617

St. Lawrence County donations will be distributed by the St. Lawrence County Community Development Program. Donations in Jefferson County will be distributed by the Community Action Planning Council in Watertown.

“I want to thank Kinney Drugs, the St. Lawrence County Community Development Program, and the Community Action Planning Council for their support of this important effort,” Russell said.

Please call (315) 786-0284 or (315) 386-2037 or email russella@assembly.state.ny.us for more information.

Not the right time for Massena Memorial Hospital privatization, says Assemblywoman Russell

Statement from Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, on the announcement from Massena Memorial Hospital regarding their plans to begin the process to become a non-profit.

“Now is not the time to entertain the privatization of Massena Memorial Hospital. We have seen strong gains over the last year, and while we do need to review the facility’s long term viability, there is no need to rush through a decision at this time. Given the traumatic announcement by Alcoa, Massena and the entire North Country should be focusing 100 percent on keeping Alcoa’s operation open. I would like to see a delay in discussions of privatization until we have a better idea of what we are really looking at regarding Alcoa and so that the community can fully participate in the discussions.”

Read more about the announcement at: http://www.wwnytv.com/news/local/Massena-Hospital-Plans-Switch-To-Nonprofit-Status-341782802.html

Assemblywoman Russell urges all levels of government to begin long-term planning to support economic development in Massena and the North Country

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, is urging ALCOA to reconsider a decision to curtail smelting at its Massena West plant and is working with local, state, and federal officials to find a path forward that keeps the company in the North Country.

“Given the turbulent global economy which drove this decision, it is imperative that we focus on what can be done to mitigate the economic devastation and retain the ability for future smelting operations in Massena,” Russell said.

Russell will introduce legislation to protect the power allocation granted to ALCOA for its Massena operations to provide time for the demand for primary metals to rebound in world markets. “In the interim, my legislation will call for the value of the power not currently being utilized by ALCOA to be invested in the North Country - particularly to benefit those impacted by job loss,”Russell said.

“The key to the long term viability of smelting in Massena is an improved economic environment more broadly,” added Russell. “The time is long overdue for New York to make long-term, multi-year investments in infrastructure to stabilize our economy and support sustainable growth. Responsible development will provide the basis for business investment in equipment and materials, generating demand for manufactured goods. It is within the state’s financial ability and best interests to partner with businesses and communities to address our infrastructure needs: from energy transmission upgrades to relieving congestion on choked roads, from repairing crumbling bridges to ensuring basic services, like water and sewer systems, are able to meet demands.”

Russell is calling for leaders at the federal level to provide support for infrastructure investment and to promote the long-term, strategic decision making that has been absent under sequestration.

“Businesses and workers benefit from construction projects that provide cash flow to companies and paychecks to workers who reinvest their profits and earnings into purchases that will drive the rest of the economy forward,” Russell said. “Funding the basic infrastructure needs will be a win-win by creating mid-term jobs and long-term operational efficiency that will help to ensure businesses are profitable and able to engage in further development and expansion”

With recent political change in Canada, our largest trading partner, Russell sees an opportunity to invest more heavily in transportation linkages across the border. “This presents a new opportunity to improve transportation linkages by aligning projects in Canada and New York so we can retain our long-standing manufacturing sectors and recruit complimentary ventures which strengthen their position in the global market.”

Assemblywoman Russell and River Hospital work together to promote mental health care for veterans

In an effort to ensure veterans and active-duty soldiers receive the care they deserve, Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, is teaming up with Alexandria Bay’s River Hospital to highlight treatment programs for post-traumatic stress disorder and other anxiety related disorders.

The open house, which will highlight the River Community Wellness Program, will run from 9 to 11am at the River Community Wellness Program building (adjacent to River Hospital), 4 Fuller St, Alexandria Bay, on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

“It’s important for us to do everything we can to ensure veterans and soldiers who are returning from active-duty have high-quality support systems here at home,” Russell said. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Veterans Day than by helping the brave men and women who keep us safe find the services they need to live full lives in our communities.”

“Since 2013 we have been honored to serve our Soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division for treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress,” River Hospital CEO Ben Moore, III, said. “We are equally proud to now have the opportunity to serve our Veterans in Northern New York. We are particularly grateful to Assemblywoman Russell for the opportunity to inform the Veteran community on Veterans Day of these services. We feel that extending our services to the Veteran community is a fitting way to honor them for their sacrifice.”

To learn more about the River Community Wellness Program log on to www.riverhospital.org.

Immediately following the open house Russell is encouraging people to join her at the Alexandria Bay Veterans Day Parade hosted by the American Legion downtown.

The parade starts at 11 and will feature speakers from the Air Force and Coast Guard at a closing ceremony at the American Legion post, 9 Rock Street.

"Historic day" as Women's Equality legislation is signed into law

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed multiple pieces of legislation designed to protect and further women’s equality in New York State. The new laws will help achieve pay equity, strengthen human trafficking laws and protections for domestic violence victims and end pregnancy discrimination in all workplaces.

The Governor also announced that New York State has allocated a total of $6.4 million for Sexual Assault Prevention and Assistance providers across the State. This includes $4.5 million enacted as part of the Enough is Enough legislative package to support implementation of this new campus sexual assault legislation by providing prevention, as well as $1 million to be administered by the Department of Health and $900,000 to be administered by the Office of Victim Services.

“Today is a historic day as we strengthened laws and protections ensuring women’s equality, an issue I’ve been fighting for my entire life” Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa said. “New York is a progressive leader and we have signified that by ensuring women across the state with equal pay, providing protection from discrimination, and ensuring that victims of domestic violence have the protections and resources they need.”

Start your holiday shopping at the North Country Department Store!

Get a head start on holiday shopping at the North Country Department Store, Nov. 7, where local goods, businesses, and services will be on display.

“The Department Store represents a wonderful opportunity for residents to reacquaint themselves with the amazing variety of talents and products found right here at home,” Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell said.

Addie Russell: Investing in the North Country

Attention local businesses and entrepreneurs: North Country Department Store scheduled for Nov. 7

The North Country Department Store is returning on Saturday, November 7 and vendors are encouraged to begin registering now. Registration will remain open until October 30.

The Department Store, an annual showcasing of locally made goods, business, and services sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, the Indian River Future Farmers of America Club, and Noah’s Ark Preschool, will be open from 10am to 4pm at the Indian River Middle School off US Route 11, Philadelphia, NY.

“The North Country Department Store is a special event that demonstrates the best the region has to offer,” Russell said. “It’s a chance for residents to rediscover the incredible variety of locally made goods and businesses that are available right here in the North Country.”

Vendors should email russella@assembly.state.ny.us or call (315) 786-0284 or (315) 386-2037 to register for the event. Setup hours are available on Friday, November 6 from 6 to 8pm and the day of the event from 8 to 10am.

All vendor and admission donations benefit the Indian River Future Farmers of America Club and Noah’s Ark Preschool.

Assemblywoman Russell presents awards at Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services Community Awards Breakfast

Assemblywoman Addie Russell spent Thursday morning at the 2015 Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services Community Awards Breakfast in Watertown where she presented awards to outstanding members of the community working to change lives in Jefferson County and beyond. Pictured in the photo above are Anita Seefried-Brown from the Alliance for Better Communities, Community Service Award recipient Rev. Jeffrey Smith, and Assemblywoman Addie Russell. 

Rev. Smith preaches at the First Baptist Church in Watertown and is the Head Chaplain at the Jefferson County Jail, the Chaplain for the Watertown Police Force, and a member of the Clergy staff at the Samaritan Medical Center. He is also a counselor for substance abuse, marital and pre-marital matters, and family counseling. Additionally, the Rev. Smith works with soldiers returning from duty oversees who are suffering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder along with their families.  

Russell urges local schools to apply for Farm-to-School grant funding

With $350,000 in state grant funding available for schools to help access local food sources, Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said it’s important for North Country districts to apply as part of a statewide effort to bring more New York food into the cafeterias.

The grant funding unveiled by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Monday is designed to help schools lay the groundwork for future farm-to-school opportunities.

Russell, who chairs the state Assembly Task Force on Food, Farms, and Nutrition, said, “We are building the statewide infrastructure to bring local food into the schools. This funding will go a long way towards creating a sustainable, local supply chain that is nutritious and affordable.”

Russell bill supporting Clayton tourism signed into law

Today Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed into law a bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will allow the village of Clayton to finalize part the Clayton Riverwalk project.

"The Riverwalk project is an important step forward for the community's efforts to bolster its tourism industry and take advantage of the beauty of the St. Lawrewence River," Russell said. "I'm proud to have supported this legislation and look forward to continuing to work with the village in the future."

The law allows the village to transfer a small plot of land it owns to Dean Hyde in exchange for a crucial stretch of land along the St. Lawrence River that enables phase two of the Clayton Riverwalk project to move forward. The property is located along the shore of the St. Lawrence River across from the intersection of Merrick Street and Riverside Drive.

Norwood-Norfolk school to receive additional funding for pre-K

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, announced that the Norwood-Norfolk Central School District has received additional funding for their pre-K program for the 2015-16 school year. In the 2015-16 state budget, Norwood-Norfolk schools received $127,863 in pre-K funding, and the district has now received an additional $183,680 for their program.

“This additional funding is great news for Norwood-Norfolk families,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “The pre-K program received a tremendous boost financially and has the ability to acquire greater resources and better prepare our kids for the future.”

Russell has always shown a strong commitment to schools in her district and has consistently fought to ensure our students receive the best education possible. In addition to the pre-K funding the school received this year, Norwood-Norfolk schools received $123,829 last year, for a total of over $435,000 in the past two years.

Russell also noted that the 2015-16 state budget included a 3.89 percent increase in funding for the Norwood-Norfolk Central School District as well as a 98 percent restoration of funding cut due to the Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA).

“Education is the key to success,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “Strengthening our schools and ensuring they have the resources needed to provide a high-quality education will put our kids on the path to a bright future.”

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Assemblywoman Russell introduces legislation to support local DMV offices

As more and more business is done online the state has also made it easier for people to do basic tasks, like renewing their vehicle registration, over the internet. However, the state is not reimbursing local Department of Motor Vehicle offices for internet services - a recent development that is problematic for county budgets and not in keeping with the spirit of the longstanding revenue sharing agreements between the state and counties.

In an effort to help county governments retain funding Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, has introduced legislation that will fairly compensate counties for online transactions with the state DMV.

“Convenience is a worthwhile goal; I don’t think anyone wants to make it more difficult to renew your registration,” Russell said. “But we need to make sure we’re not hurting our local DMV offices, which provide many important services, in the process.”

Liquor Authority rescinds decision on Dancing Dog application

Photo from Google.

Alexandria Bay’s Dancing Dog Cafe and Nightclub, a popular destination in the riverfront community, may be back in business thanks to efforts by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa.

Earlier this summer the business, which has been under the management of Anthony M. Menkel III since March, had its liquor license application rejected by the state Liquor Authority due to its proximity to a local church.

Now the Liquor Authority is reconsidering the application.

“This bar has been a staple in the community for decades,” Russell said. “I spoke with the Liquor Authority to explain the situation to them, and they’ve since rescinded their decision. I want to thank, in particular, the Reformed Church of 1000 Isles for their cooperation in this effort.”

Menkel said the community can’t afford to lose another business and praised the support he’s received from area residents.

“We’re small town America and a resort town,” he said. “Every business helps each other out by drawing people in.”

A final decision is expected within two weeks.

Addie Russell joins Commissioner Roberts at Jefferson County Department of Social Services

Assemblywoman Addie Russell joined State Commissioner of Temporary and Disability Assistance Samuel Roberts and Jefferson County Department of Social Services Commissioner Teresa Gaffney for a tour of the DSS building in Watertown. 

"The Department of Social Services is responsible for helping so many of our neighbors in need get back on their feet," Russell said. "It's important that Commissioner Roberts came to hear directly from people on the ground about how the state can be most helpful in supporting the local mission."

Depauville Free Library to celebrate newly opened addition on Saturday

On Saturday at 11am, the Depauville Free Library will celebrate the completion of a four month construction project that added space for a new Children’s Room and the recently established North Country Archaeology Center. The library will also dedicate the Marc A.F. Baker Reading Room.

Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Theresa, will join Clayton Town Supervisor Justin Taylor, Dani F. Baker, and others for a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the new areas of the library. 

“Libraries are important to the health of any community,” Russell said. “I look forward to the vibrant programs Depauville will be able to offer and will continue to support the important work that local libraries do every day.”

Addie Russell brings Kate Wehrle on as Special Assistant for Community Relations

Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, is proud to announce the addition of Dexter-resident Kate Wehrle to her staff. Wehrle will work out of the Jefferson County office as the Assemblymember’s Special Assistant for Community Relations.

“I’m very pleased to have an opportunity to work with Addie,” Wehrle said. “This is an exciting time to be involved in government and I plan to hit the ground running.”

“Kate brings years of experience and intimate local knowledge to the table and I’m looking forward to having her on the team,” Russell said.

Russell visits Marine Corps Reserve Training Center

Russell looks on as combat gear is displayed by a member of the Army National Guard.

Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, visited the Marine Corps Reserve Training Center in Mattydale, NY, on Thursday to learn more about the daily operations of the Marine Corps, Army, and Air National Guard and the Navy Operational Support Center.

Each military organization supports the armed forces when mobilized by the U.S. Department of Defense.

Anglers can keep using three lines thanks to Assemblymember Russell

The North Country’s recreational fishing industry received a boost on Friday thanks to efforts by Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will make for an exciting fishing experience for local residents and visitors.

The law, signed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, will continue to allow anglers to use three lines while on freshwater bodies instead of two, giving them a greater probability of hooking a fish and returning to the area for another outing.

“We have been blessed with an abundance of world-class fishing destinations in the North Country,” Russell said. “This law ensures anglers who visit the region will come back by giving everyone the best shot possible to catch a big one!”

Visit the Thousand Islands with Addie Russell

Addie Russell loves the Thousand Islands and spends as much time on the St. Lawrence River as possible. Hear why she loves it and check out some of the beautiful locations along the nation's fourth coast!

Common Core results demonstrate the need for change according to Russell

Newly appointed Regent Beverly Ouderkirk and Assemblymember Addie Russell.

The release of this year’s Common Core test results demonstrates the need to drastically change New York’s approach to standardized testing, according to Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa.

Statewide 20 percent of students opted not to take the exams and in the North Country many students who did participate did not meet the state standards. Russell said she believes the “so-called state standards” are problematic. 

“Although I’m in favor of higher standards, the Common Core implementation was so rushed that using it as a measure of our students’ achievement or our teachers’ ability is inappropriate,” Russell said. “With such poorly crafted tests and high opt-out rates I’m not confident these results are giving us any reliable or usable data.” 

More than $230,000 in state aid heading to North Country libraries

Assemblymember Russell visited the Canton Free Library earlier this year.

Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, announced that several North Country libraries will receive a total of $235,746 in state aid through the New York State Public Library Construction Grant Program. The grant program is designed to help fund construction costs of public libraries with needs ranging from routine maintenance to full-scale renovations.

“Libraries form an integral part of our communities by bringing people together and creating an environment for collaboration and learning to take place,” Russell said. “This aid will go a long way to ensure our libraries are able to continue serving that role in the North Country for years to come.”

Assemblymember Russell honors Ogdensburg's Dr. Yitta for service to United Helpers

Dr. V. Prasad Yitta, who served as Medical Director for United Helpers' Mosaic Program for 25 years, was honored by Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, and United Helpers today. United Helpers named the staff and patient exercise and fitness center at their downtown Mosaic Complex in his honor. 

Crucial funding for accessibility upgrades at the Ogdensburg Public Library secured by Assemblymember Russell

Assemblymember Addie Russell recently secured a $125,000 grant for the Ogdensburg Public Library that will be used to make accessibility upgrades to the facility. Pictured from left to right are Library Trustee Mary Margaret Small, Russell, Trustee Cathy Piche and Lin Griffin, Ogdensburg City Councilor Jennifer Stevenson, and Executive Director Penny Kerfien. 

The Ogdensburg Public Library will once again be accessible to everyone thanks to a grant secured by Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa.

“Libraries bring communities together with new events, activities, and opportunities for learning,” Russell said. “It is important to me to support our local libraries and ensure they remain accessible to everyone.”

Russell joins Assembly colleagues urging the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to protect upstate airports

Watertown - Today, Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, joined Assembly Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle, D-Irondequoit, and 17 Upstate Assembly Majority colleagues in sending a letter calling for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to not move forward with the lifting of LaGuardia International Airport’s 1,500 mile perimeter rule.

Russell meets with Sen. Gillibrand to talk economic development

Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, spent Monday morning in Watertown meeting with New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Donald Alexander, CEO of the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency, to discuss sustainable economic growth and job creation in the North Country. Acting Regional Director of the U.S. Economic Development Administration's Northeast Region Tonia Williams was also in attendance, along with other regional leaders.

Russell visits with children at Knickerbocker Elementary

Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, stopped in to read to kids at the YMCA's School Age Child Care Program at Knickerbocker Elementary School in Watertown this morning.

Assemblymember Russell wants to see the minimum wage increased across the board - not in one industry alone

As the New York State Department of Labor considers a recommendation made by the Fast Food Wage Board to increase the minimum wage for fast food workers, Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said caution is needed when considering a pay increase targeting one industry alone.

"While I am supportive of increasing New York's minimum wage to ensure no one working full-time lives in poverty, the Wage Board's unilateral increase targeting only one industry is not the appropriate way forward. Raising the minimum wage for fast food workers alone may create instability in New York's job market and is unfair to employers and employees in other fields," Russell said. "I supported legislation (A.7257) last year that would have increased the minimum wage across the state and tied future increases to the rate of inflation. I stand by my support of a living wage for all New Yorkers - not just for one industry - and I will continue to support workers in the years to come."

Assemblymember Russell thanked New York Air Brake for their dedication to the region at 125th anniversary

Speaking at the 125th Anniversary Celebration of Watertown's New York Air Brake, Assemblymember Addie Russell thanked the employees, management, and owners for their dedication to the North Country. Pictured with Russell is Chair of the Knorr-Bremse Board of Directors Heinz Hermann Thiele. Knorr-Bremse is the parent company of New York Air Brake.

Assemblymember Russell praises local effort to protect Fort Drum

Assemblymember Addie Russell, Fort Drum Garrison Commander Colonel Gary A. Rosenberg, and Fort Drum Commanding General Major General Stephen J. Townsend met with Speaker of the Assembly Carl E. Heastie in March to discuss how to avoid cuts to the installation.

The Army announced today that Fort Drum will retain the vast majority of its personnel, losing a few dozen soldiers as the Army reduces the size of its active force.

“I’m proud of the work done by local organizers to demonstrate the value of Fort Drum, both to the North Country, to the entire state of New York and our national defense. This was truly a team effort,” Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, said. “The community came together around this crucial strategic installation and enlisted the invaluable assistance of our state and federal leaders who rallied around Fort Drum alongside us. I want to thank state Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie for his support and our representatives in Washington, D.C., from senior Senator Charles Schumer - who has led the fight to preserve Ft. Drum, and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Representative Elise Stefanik, for their efforts in protecting Fort Drum.”

Assemblymember Russell's bill protecting volunteer firefighters signed into law

For volunteer firefighters, the dangers of keeping their communities safe extend beyond the scene of an emergency, and legislation passed by Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, will ensure they’re protected down the road (A.6242).

“Volunteer firefighters are selfless and vigilant members of our local communities who are deeply invested in the areas they serve,” Russell said. “These men and women put themselves in harm’s way whenever they arrive at the scene of an emergency, and I believe we owe it to them to give them protection down the road.”