THE NORTH COUNTRY DEMOCRAT

Jefferson County Democrats Give Back

2011-12-21T23:47:00.001-05:00

The Jefferson County Democratic Committee (JCDC) recently stopped by the Watertown Urban Mission to drop off hundreds of dollar of bathroom products brought together in a recent fundraiser. These items will go to those less fortunate across the North Country.

Pictured: L/R
JCDC Vice Chair Ron Cole, Executive Director
Erika Flint and JCDC Chairman, Sean Hennessey

When our fundraising team discussed developing a giving campaign for our committee we discussed a number of different programs to help those in need. Most the ideas were based around toys for children or food for the table. The idea of raising funds and bathroom products made a lot of sense. When most people think holiday they don’t think tooth paste, deodorant or shampoo but that’s why we chose it. These are the things that can be in short supply in the holiday season and it’s something hard to do without.

Sandra Cole, JCDC Secretary and founder of the “Discover the Meaning” program was overjoyed when she found the mounds of products brought in the evening of the event. “The outpouring was spectacular and the products delivered are top shelf. This is a program that’s grown year after year and this year was no exception. I’m so happy everyone came out and showed such support.” Said Mrs. Cole.

Some of the items donated by the JCDC

The Discover program was created several years ago to get members of the JCDC out in our community raising much needed funds and doing good deeds for members of our community in need.

This was a win win for our committee.” Said JCDC Chairman Sean Hennessey “Our committee gets to come together and have a great time while pooling much needed resources for the base of our party. We’re so pleased that it worked out so well and we’re looking forward to our next Discover the Meaning program.”

Fun Fun Fun at Bistro 108

Executive Director of the Watertown Urban Mission Erika Flint said of the donation from the JCDC “Thank you so much. Government programs don't cover items such as shampoo, deodorant, razors, or soap, and too often on tight budgets people cut these items to save money. We depend on generous gifts like this one to make sure people get the hygiene items they need to stay healthy and rise above their struggles.”

Donating to the Watertown Urban Mission is easy. If you have money, canned goods, clothes…whatever you can drop those items off right at their office on Factory St. in Watertown. You can also check them out on FaceBook by clicking HERE.

Addie To Hold Holiday Party & You're Invited!

2011-12-19T20:41:00.000-05:00

Don't know if your linked to Assemblywoman Addie Russell's (Click HERE) but she's having a get together for the Holiday's and She'd like you to come by and say hello. Addie's message from her FB page says:

"Happy Holidays everyone! I am having an open house holiday celebration at my Watertown District Office on Tuesday December 20th from 11-3. Come on over and enjoy some great food and drink and help us to ring in the holiday spirit!"

The Assembly office is on the 2nd Floor of the Dulles State Office Bldg on Washington St. No RSVP is needed so just stop by and say hello! See you there!

Much Needed Housing is Coming to the Region and NY gets a second Major League Baseball team.

2011-12-17T18:14:00.000-05:00

I know it's a bit late but here's some excerpts of Lt Governor Bob Duffy's trip to Watertown, NY last week. This was great news for our region. Housing is a HUGE issue here in the North Country and this will lead not only to affordable housing for those in need but also a much needed increase in construction jobs for the region. It's our hope that this will also lead to an increase in Union work at the site as well.

During the standing room only event, it was clear by all in attendance that much was done across party lines to get this project underway. It was also very pleasing to see buisness mangers from various labor groups such as Carpenters and Plumbers and Steam fitters in attendance. The Governor deserves kudos seeing the need North Country develoment.

It's is particularly satifying to see our friends from organised labor at the table when public dollars are being invested in private development. It's our hope that this public/private partership will lead to a lasting bond between those local devopers and area trade councels. With Organized Labor and devolopers working hand in hand it's clear that the North Country has a bright future. Thank you Governor Cuomo for your avid support for North Country progess!!

Below you'll find excerpts from the days events:

Just to give you a heads up on the Yankees hat being displayed in the video. The current Senator from the 48th District made an attempt at a joke when she nagged Command General Milley to switch sides as a Boston Red Socks fan to what the Senator referred to as "New Yorks Baseball Team" the New York Yankee's.N

We think it's important to point out to the Senator that New York has two major league baseball teams. The other being the New York Mets. Many North Country residents are avid supporters of the NY Mets (Including former Senator Jim Wright (R) who was the MC of this event as well as current Democratic Chairman Sean Hennessey who were both in attendance) The Senator should understand that Met fans aren't fair weather friends and have a long memory. They have to be since it the Mets only get to the play offs every decade or two. (our attempt at comedy)

That being the case we implore the current Senator to research this team and learn about supporting a team even when times are tough.

Congressman Owens Wants You!

2011-12-06T19:06:00.001-05:00

Congressman Bill Owens announced today that several 2012 internships are available in his offices in Washington, Watertown, Plattsburgh, and Oneida.

“Our internship program offers a tremendous opportunity for recent graduates and current college students to gain valuable work experience and learn about the operations of a Congressional office,” said Owens. “I urge all who are interested in a career in public service to apply.”

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to be an intern in one of Rep. Owens’ offices. There is no set schedule for an internship, as schedules are tailored for an applicant’s availability.

To apply, interested parties can fill out this form at Congressman Owens’ website, or they can send a resume and a cover letter to Congressman Owens’ internship coordinator, Kelley Longshore by clicking HERE or by emailing kelley.longshore@mail.house.gov

Happy Birthday Governor Cuomo!

2011-12-06T18:57:00.001-05:00

Delegate Training to be Held in Watertown NY

2011-12-05T21:00:00.001-05:00

The Jefferson County Democratic Committee (JCDC) is proud to announce that they will host a regional training for Democrats interested in being a delegate to the 2012 National Convention.

On April 24, 2012 Democratic Voters from across the state will go to the polls and elect 224 delegates to represent New York State at the Democratic Nation Convention being held on September 6th 2012 in Charlotte North Carolina.

Interested North Country Democrats are invited to attend the Regional training at:

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 910
25001 Water St. in Watertown NY 13601
Date: Saturday, December 10th 2011 at 1pm

Space in limited, so we are asking that all Democrats interested in attending the North Country Regional training RSVP Jefferson County Democratic Chairman Sean M Hennessey at jeffersondemocrats@gmail.com or by calling the JCDC's Watertown Office at (315) 788-4590. Please RSVP no later than 5pm Friday December 9, 2012.

Another Sad loss for the North Country

2011-11-17T08:15:00.001-05:00

From Newzjunky.com

Former Jefferson County

Treasurer Nancy Browns

Mother has passed

Leone R. Datoush

November 16, 2011

ADAMS, N.Y. — Leone “Onie” R. Datoush, 90, of East Church Street, died Wednesday morning at the Samaritan Keep Home where she was admitted June 28.

The funeral will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Piddock Funeral Home, Adams, with Mona Fargo, pastor of the Adams United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Copenhagen. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Born March 22, 1921, in Turin, daughter of Emmett and Alice Peckham Rupert, she was a graduate of Copenhagen High School.

During the war she worked at Savage Arms, Utica and at the Bagley Sewall Defense Plant in Watertown.

She married Jerome “Dayt” Datoush Aug. 17, 1946, at the home of her mother in Copenhagen.

The couple lived in Adams all their married life. Mr. Datoush worked for the W.W. Conde Hardware Store in Watertown following his discharge from the Army where he served in Africa and Italy. “Onie” and “Dayt” purchased the former Gould’s Restaurant in Adams which they operated for 14 years. Mr. Datoush died Nov. 21, 1987.
To see more from please click HERE

The North Country Losses a Great Man

2011-11-13T09:00:00.001-05:00

From newzjunky.com

Gerald F. Casey, 74, Watertown, and a summer resident of Cape Vincent, died Thursday, Nov. 10, at Samaritan Keep Home where he had resided since April 2009.

A memorial Mass will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Holy Family Church with Rev. Steven Murray officiating. As per his wishes, he is donating his body to Upstate Medical Center.

Burial in St. Vincent of Paul Cemetery, Cape Vincent, will be at a later date.

Arrangements are with Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Watertown.

Born Sept. 7, 1937, in Syracuse, the son of Harold B. and Madeline O'Donnell Casey, he graduated from Most Holy Rosary School, Syracuse, received a bachelor of arts degree in English from Syracuse University, and his BS in Business Administration from State University of New York.

He married Marlene A. Docteur on Oct. 5, 1979, in Watertown.

From 1975 until his retirement in 1994 as building superintendent, he worked at the Dulles State Office Building, Watertown. He was appointed to this position under the Gov. Carey administration and reappointed under the Gov. Cuomo administration.

Mr. Casey was a communicant of Holy Family Church and a member of the Celebration Singers.

The couple lived in Watertown and were summer residents of Cape Vincent.

He was very involved with the Watertown Chamber of Commerce, being a past president, a member of the board of directors, a representative to T. I. Council, and chairman of the tourism committee. He was a founding member of the Irish Fest and very active with Project Children.

He was a member and past president of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division #1, Watertown and a former chairman of the town of Champion Democratic Committee. He participated in Third Wave Productions, a community theater group, and served on the board of directors for Seaway Trail Foundation.
See more HERE

Thank You Soldiers for all Your Sacrifice

2011-11-11T18:45:00.001-05:00

2011-11-06T13:17:00.000-05:00

(L/R) Judge Charlie Merrel (Supreme Court Candidate)
and Congressman Bill Owens (NY 23) take a
moment to catch up during the annual event.

Last night the Jefferson County Democratic Committee held it's annual Fall Dinner/GOTV dinner. The house was packed and we'd like to think everyone had a great time.

In attendance were Congressman Bill Owens, Commissioner of Ag and Markets Darrel Aubertine, Assemblywoman Addie Russell, Supereme Court Judge candidates: Judge Charlie Merrell, Patrick MacRae, Tom Buckle and David Magnarelli, Encombant Legislatore Allan Drake (District 4), Legislative Candidates Michael Astafan (District 6), Ron Cole (District 11) and Carl Disalvatore (District 12). Also on hand were Town of Housnfield Supervisor Tim Scee and various other elected officials.

We were also lucky to have with us various Labor organizations like: IBEW local 910, CSEA, Bricklayers and Allied Trades, SEIU 1199, Steal Workers, CWA, Plumbers and Steam Fitters, AFGE and many more.

Below you'll find some of the pictures form last night's event. Enjoy!

Assemblywoman Addie Russell (118th) Ron Monnat (former Buisness manager for Plumbers and Steam fitters and Beth Cassada (President of the IBEW local 910 give the North Country Democat a moment for a picture.

(L/R) Commissioner of Ag and Markets Darrel Aubertine,
The Shaw family (Teamsters) and
Congressman Bill Owens

Here's a half room shot of yesterdays annual Fall/GOTV dinner at the Ramada in Watertown NY. What a great event!

Local Mayors Endorse Astafan for Legislator

2011-11-06T08:01:00.002-05:00

Recently Wayny McIlroy , Mayor of the Village of Carthage, endorsed Mike Astafan for Legislature in District 6. Today, we're proud to announce that the Mayor of West Carthage, has Endorsed Mike Astafan as well. Mayor Scott Burto stated in his letter of support:

"I am writing to the residents of the Town of Wilna to express my support for Michael F. Astafan as your next Jefferson County District 6 Legislator. Mr. Astafan has been a valuable asset not only to the residents of the Village of Carthage but to the larger Carthage community."

"I have had the honor of working with Mr. Astafan over the last 12 years during his tenure as a Village of Carthage Trustees as well as sitting with him on the Joint Water and Sewer Utility Board and our efforts through RACOG. I have seen first hand his commitment and dedication to the Carthage community. During Mike’s time serving on the Economic Development Corporation of Carthage and the Carthage Development Corporation, we have seen policy changes that have allowed for growth in new businesses in West Carthage and Carthage and benefiting the community as a whole."

"Although I can not vote in the District 6 election, I would ask that you support Michael Astafan on November 8, 2011 as he is the proven candidate committed to bettering the Carthage area. I know not only will the residents of District 6 be well represented but also the greater Carthage community."

Thank You,

Scott M. Burto

When picking their next legislator the Towns of Wilna and Leray should look at both candidates and let experience, dedication to community and leadership be their guide when picking their next Legislator for district 6. Mike Astafan advocay on the Black River Regulating District saved the North Country Millions, His work in conjunction with Village and Town officials after the devisting Village of Carthage Fire has led to a rebirth of commerce in down town Carthage. Mike's leadship as exalted ruler Elks lodge #1762 in Carthage lead to fiscal strength during his tenure. The list of Mike Astafan's accomplishments are long and his ability to lead unquestionable.

This Tuesday, November 8th, every vote for Mike Astafan is a vote for proven leadership.

Your still the one..in A-Bay!!

2011-10-31T21:29:00.001-04:00

You're Still The One from Jim Cummings on Vimeo.

Newzjunky.com- 'North Country Department Store' Planned for Nov. 5

2011-10-30T14:39:00.002-04:00

Judge Charlie Merrell on the Issues

2011-10-29T21:06:00.001-04:00

By Jim O'Hara / The Post-Standard

Judge Charlie Merrell

Why do you want to become a state Supreme Court justice at this point in your career?
Serving as a Supreme Court justice is the pinnacle of any legal career. It is also a great challenge. I want to serve my community as a Supreme Court justice because I am ready for the challenge. I have prepared for this challenge by working long hours in private practice, by serving as a town justice and for the last eight years by serving as the Lewis County Judge, Family Court Judge, Surrogate, and for the last four years as acting Supreme Court Justice.

What personal characteristic do you think best qualifies you to be a judge?
As a Judge, I know that there is no one personal characteristic that best qualifies someone to be a judge. Each judge brings his or her unique personality to the bench and develops a judicial style based on that personality. The best judges have a good “judicial temperament”, which means they are patient, but firmly in control. I bring my patience and good judicial temperament to the bench with me every day.

How can you, as a state Supreme Court justice, make a positive impact on the community?
A State Supreme Court justice can make a positive impact on the community in many ways. First and foremost, a justice must “do justice” every day, i.e., hear cases fairly and timely and decide cases within the parameters of justice. Second, if the Justice is competently doing the job, the community will have faith and confidence in the judicial branch of government. Third, a Supreme Court justice can serve as a role model in the legal community gently steering young attorneys toward good work habits and professional behavior. Further, I believe that a Supreme Court justice has an obligation to give back to the community that elected him or her whether through church or some other community organization.
Read more on Judge Merrell from The Post Standard HERE

Ron Cole Support Strong in District 11!

2011-10-29T13:06:00.003-04:00

Ron Cole (Legislative Candidate in District 11) signs are popping up all over the distrcit!
Looks like all Ron's hard work is paying off! I'f you'd like to help in the final days of the
campaign please drop us a line and we'll put you to work.

9/11 Memorial Moves to Fort Drum

2011-10-26T20:17:00.001-04:00

Governor Cuomo,

New York State Museum, and

National September 11 Memorial

& Museum Announce

Fort Drum 9/11 Exhibition

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, the New York State Museum, and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum today announced the opening of a "New York Remembers" exhibition at the Fort Drum U.S. Army base in Jefferson County.

The exhibition will give Fort Drum soldiers and their families a place to remember the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, to honor the countless heroes who helped with the clean-up and recovery efforts, and to pay tribute to members of the military who are fighting for our freedom. The exhibition features several historical artifacts from the collections of the State Museum and National September 11 Memorial & Museum. The stories behind the artifacts are told as part of the exhibition.

"These artifacts will provide a gathering place for the Fort Drum community to remember the tragic events of September 11th," Governor Cuomo said. "The men and women of our nation's armed services have paid a tremendous price protecting America and keeping our country safe in the aftermath of those senseless acts of terrorism. Fort Drum deployed forces as part of the nation's military response to the 9/11 attacks and they were some of the first conventional troops on the ground in Afghanistan. This exhibit will serve as a constant reminder of the unbreakable spirit of unity that brought our state and nation together after September 11th."

Joe Daniels, President of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, said, "This exhibit will help soldiers and families of the Fort Drum community reflect and honor the women, men and children lost in the attacks of September 11, and it represents our gratitude for their admirable service. I want to thank the Governor for his dedication to preserving the history of 9/11, the primary goal of the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum."
Mark Schaming, Director of the New York State Museum, said, "The New York State Museum is glad to continue our partnership with Governor Cuomo to help all New Yorkers commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11. The Fort Drum U.S. Army base may be on the opposite end of the state from Ground Zero, but the lives of the members of the Fort Drum community were forever altered by the attacks. Fort Drum soldiers work to protect our state and nation every day and I hope this exhibit will serve as a source of strength and reflection."
Colonel Noel T. Nicolle, Fort Drum Garrison Commander, said, "After 10 years of war that began with the attacks on September 11, 2001, I believe it is safe to say we here at Fort Drum will never forget the atrocities of that day. This exhibit loaned to us by the State of New York, however, will provide us a valued place to reflect on the losses of that terrible day, and the innumerable sacrifices made by our Soldiers, Families and Civilians since then."

In August, Governor Cuomo, the New York State Museum, and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum announced the creation of thirty "New York Remembers" exhibitions as part of a statewide recognition of the tenth anniversary of September 11th. Fort Drum's exhibition is located in Clark Hall, a common area for visiting family members to spend time with their relatives, and at the Directorate of Emergency Services Building.
Items from the exhibition, which are located in Clark Hall Building 10720 and in Directorate of Emergency Services Building 10715, include:

Fire Hose Connector (Directorate of Emergency Services Building 10715)
Much of the FDNY's equipment was destroyed in the collapse of the World Trade Center. Three hundred and forty-three members of the FDNY were killed on September 11th, the largest number of New York firefighters ever lost on a single day.

Marriott Access Card (Directorate of Emergency Services Building 10715)
The New York Marriott World Trade Center was located between and connected to the Twin Towers. It collapsed after a portion of the South Tower fell on it.

Bolt (Directorate of Emergency Services Building 10715)
A bolt from the World Trade Center's steel frame.

Revolver (Directorate of Emergency Services Building 10715)
Numerous government offices in World Trade Center Building 6 lost valuable criminal evidence and paperwork. Approximately 200 - 400 guns, which were held as evidence and ranged from small-caliber semiautomatic pistols to assault rifles, as well as other evidence in pending criminal cases and confidential government documents, were recovered at Ground Zero or the Fresh Kills landfill.

Airplane Piece (Clark Hall Building 10720)
Landing Gear: Fragment of an airplane from either UA Flight 175 or AA Flight 11. As potential criminal evidence, the piece is marked with an FBI case number and the signature of Special Agent Richard Marx.

ABOUT THE NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM

With more than 2,000 artifacts, the New York State Museum is the nation's largest repository of objects recovered from the World Trade Center site after September 11, 2001. Within weeks of the attacks, State Museum staff documented the operations at the WTC site and later spent countless hours at the WTC Recovery Operation at Fresh Kills, where all the material was inspected. In the ten months that followed the attacks, the FBI and NYPD recovered over 50,000 pieces of personal property. The Museum also documented the Fresh Kills operation with hundreds of photographs, interviews, and films.

The FBI and NYPD transferred all artifacts to the Museum after they were designated non-essential to the crime scene as neither criminal evidence nor personal property. Items include rescue artifacts, building pieces, everyday artifacts, and other objects from the site. No object collected from Fresh Kills by the State Museum was kept if it could be identified as owned by an individual. Vehicles like an FDNY truck were signed over to the State Museum by the FDNY via a deed of gift by the specific agency. Forty-nine pieces of the two airplanes that crashed into the towers were transferred to the State Museum by the FBI. These include fuselage, interior, and engine parts.

The State Museum also has a significant collection of sympathy material from the New York City area, New York State, and across the world.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is the not-for-profit corporation created to oversee the design, fundraising, programming, and operations of the Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center. The Memorial & Museum will be located on eight of the sixteen acres of the World Trade Center site. The Memorial was dedicated on the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and was opened to the public the following day, and the Museum will open in September 2012.

The Memorial honors the thousands of people who were killed in the horrific attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993. The design, created by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, consists of two reflecting pools formed in the footprints of the original Twin Towers and a plaza of trees.

The Museum will display monumental artifacts linked to the events of 9/11, while presenting intimate stories of loss, compassion, reckoning, and recovery that are central to telling the story of the 2001 and 1993 attacks and the aftermath. It will communicate key messages that embrace both the specificity and the universal implications of the events of 9/11; document the impact of those events on individual lives, as well as on local, national, and international communities; and explore the continuing significance of these events for our global community.

Town of Wilna Rallies for Candidates

2011-10-25T07:42:00.002-04:00

Real Leatership for the 21st Century!

Pictured L/R: Town of Wilna Democrat Chairman Paul Smith, Leg Candidate
District 1 2Ron Cole , Sitting Lewis County Judge and candidate for Supreme Court Justice
Charlie Merrel, Jefferson County Treasurer Karen Christie, Leg Candidate District 12
Mike Astafan, Write in candidate for Town Council in Wilna Marco Francinni and
Jefferson County Democartic Chairman Sean M Hennessey

The Town of Wilna Democrat Committee rallied last night at the American Legion in Carthage in support of Town, County and District wide Candidates. A full house was in attendance and the , Supreme Court, County Leg and Town Council race were the main topic of conversation.

Candidates from across the region were on hand for the annul event.
A number of speeches were made by various candidates but the one segment of the night that stands out most was the standing ovation that was given to former Town of Wilna Chairperson Betty McLane. Betty continues to be an incredible supporter of the Town Committee and it showed by how well she was received by the attendees.

Town Chair Paul Smith said it best "We have well under a month left to get these dedicated public servants elected to office. Now is the time to band together and show our region what real leadership is all about."

Election Day is Tuesday November 8th. If you'd like to get involved in the Town of Wilna or any other race in the region please drop us an email at jeffersondemocrats@gmail.com

"Occupy" comes to Watertown NY

2011-10-22T20:17:00.000-04:00

Leg Candidate Disalvatore Makes It Personal

2011-10-19T22:04:00.001-04:00

For Real Leadership...Vote Ron Cole!

2011-10-18T21:18:00.000-04:00

Ron Cole (Legislative Candidate) and John Schulz talk about
how to get real leadership in the Town of Rutland and
Watertown

Legislative Candidate Ron Cole (T-Watertown and Rutland) has been tireless in his push to meet with each and ever voter in his district.

Tonight was no different. Ron met with one supporter named John Schultz to talk about the issues of his town and find ways to bring some much needed advocacy to the County Legislature.

One of the main concern Ron heard tonight is jobs and the ever increasing fund surplus in Jefferson County. With unemployment hovering around 10% in Jefferson County wouldn't it be something to give just a little back to the tax payers? Now that's a concept.

Ron's clear vision and willingness to meet his constituents is something that the 11th legislative district is desperately in need of.

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 8th 2011

VOTE

RON COLE

FOR

COUNTY LEGISLATOR

AND BRING REAL

LEADERSHIP

TO THE TOWNS OF

RUTLAND AND WATERTOWN

Carl Disalvatore has something to say..

2011-10-18T20:02:00.000-04:00

Carl Disalvatore's knows a thing or two about public service. No matter if it's to County or Country Carl has served and continues to serve in many different ways.

We could go on and on about what Carl has done for Country but we thought you'd like to read it first hand.

To do this you really need to go to Carl's NEW website. Carl has been hard at work knocking doors, meeting with constituent groups and mingling with friends and neighbors. This ground swell of support has turned Carl into something of a local celebrity.

Carl's travels have been well documented and you can read about them on his website. Carl's newest entry reads something like this:

"What a beautiful sunrise this morning. High cottony clouds illuminated with pinks and purples. I was a part of the pulse of early morning Watertown at the corner of Paddock and Washington Streets. A lot of traffic on the road. A lot of polite drivers letting pedestrians cross the streets. No red light running. The cell phone users are getting sneaky keeping them in their laps out of sight – let’s not use cell phones in cars with so many children on the streets and a high level of traffic.

Thanks once again for the waves and accepting my flyer. Remember, you do have a choice on November 8!"

To follow Carl campaign and/or offer support check out his website at http://www.coloneldford12.com/ or by clicking HERE. Now's the time to get involved so check it out today!!

Governor Cuomo Directs Flags to Half-Staff

2011-10-16T12:50:00.001-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Monday, October 17 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died in Afghanistan on October 10.

Sergeant Nathan L. Wyrick died in Kandahar province while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment of the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team stationed at Fort Drum. Sergeant Wyrick was from Enumclaw, Washington.

"I join with all New Yorkers in mourning the loss of Sergeant Wyrick and I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers," Governor Cuomo said. "We will honor his service and his dedication to our country."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Occupy Wall Street - Live Stream

2011-10-16T11:14:00.000-04:00

Occupy Wall Street is now in it's second week. Things appear to be stablizing at the march sites and peaceful protests are taking place all over the globe. Check out a live stream of the Occupy Wall Street (NYC) by clicking HERE
The National Lawyers guild is a big supports of freedom of speach and of the Occupy movement. To donate to the cuase please click HERE.

Assemblywomen Russell Get Receives High Honors

2011-10-16T10:29:00.001-04:00

Assemblywomen Addie Russell (118th Assembly District) received high honors from Environmental advocates scoring a whopping 95 out of 100. The Assemblywomen was the only state Legislator in our region to receive such honors. Here's an excerpt from the Adirondack Daily Enterprise.

North Country legislators get poor ‘green’ marks

By CHRIS MORRIS - Staff Writer (cmorris@adirondackdailyenterprise.com) ,
Adirondack Daily Enterprise

Most North Country lawmakers received poor grades in an annual report card issued this week by one of the state's top environmental groups.

The report card, issued by EPL/Environmental Advocates on Wednesday, grades lawmakers on their legislative commitment to the environment. The scores are meant to serve as an environmental voter guide, according to Robert Moore, the group's executive director.

"This year's green Voters' Guide documents state leaders' steps forward - and attempts to roll back - New York's environmental protections," he said in a prepared statement.

The three legislators representing the Tri-Lakes region received "failing" grades. State Sen. Betty Little, R-Queensbury, received a 55, while Assemblywomen Teresa Sayward, R-Willsboro, and Janet Duprey, R-Peru, received scores of 50 and 48, respectively.

"The biggest challenge we face today in New York is reviving a stagnant economy that has affected every sector," Little responded. "Sometimes I vote against bills that have good intentions but are costly or onerous to comply with and hurt businesses that are struggling to survive."

Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Watertown, was the only lawmaker from the North Country to score higher than 55, receiving a 95.
Read more HERE

Tom Buckel Meets with Supporters in Watertown

2011-10-13T21:13:00.000-04:00

David Magnarelli Meets With Supports in Watertown

2011-10-13T00:05:00.001-04:00

Pat MacRae meets with Supporters in Watertown

2011-10-12T23:33:00.001-04:00

A Candidate We Can Be Proud Of

2011-10-11T20:39:00.001-04:00

Mike Astafan meets with his neighbors and talks about the future off
the Town of Wilna and parts of Leray

A big hats off to Mike Astafan for all his hard work banging doors and meeting one on one with his constituants.

Today was the same as other days on the campaign trail. Meeting good people that want postive change for their district.

Tuesday, November 8th

Vote

Mike Astafan

County Legislator

District 6

Keith Caughlin is the ONLY "Highly Qualified" Judge

2011-10-08T07:43:00.002-04:00

Caughlin Rated

Highly Qualified

by Judicial Panel

An independent screening commission in Rochester, New York has determined Keith Caughlin is a "highly qualified" candidate for Watertown City Court. The 15 member screening panel, known as the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission (IJEQC) is made up of judges, lawyers and non-lawyers appointed pursuant to regulation and considers an applicant’s 10 year professional history, references and personal interview to determine one of three ratings: unqualified, qualified or highly qualified for judicial office. The Commission evaluates judicial candidates according to their professional ability, character, independence, integrity, reputation for fairness and temperament.

For more information see Fifth Judicial District, 2011 Candidate Ratings.

University Women Like Dem Leg. Candidates

2011-10-07T08:53:00.000-04:00

Ron Cole Talks Issues with AAUW and Rotary

2011-10-07T08:02:00.001-04:00

Not so funny is it?

2011-10-05T22:52:00.003-04:00

Stefano Supports Mike Astafan for Legislator

2011-10-01T21:15:00.000-04:00

The Empire State is Open for Buisness

2011-09-27T21:31:00.000-04:00

Governor Cuomo

Makes Major Announcement

Technology Investment seen as Big Win for New York

New York really is Open for Business. Today, Governor Cuomo announced that five major technology companies would be investing $4.4 billion dollars across the state of New York over the next five years.

This investment is powerful recognition of the resurgence of our state under Governor Cuomo's leadership. As a result of the Governor's achievements, businesses are seeing New York as an increasingly great place to do business.

In announcing this important achievement, Governor Cuomo said: "This unprecedented private investment in New York's economy will create thousands of jobs and make the state the epicenter for the next generation of computer chip technology".

This investment was granted to New York over competing sites in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. So it truly is a victory of global proportions.

Today is a great day for New York. Because nothing is more important than putting more New Yorkers back to work.

North Country Pulls Out Win at JD Convention

2011-09-24T23:11:00.002-04:00

Rural Counties Unite to

Protect Judicial Seats

Pictured are (L/R)
Ron Cole, Sandra Cole, Patrick Young,
Ted Ford, Ed Gaffney, Jackie Schell,
Doris McLallen,
Jefferson County Chair Sean Hennessey
and Onondaga County Chair
Vita DeMarchi

Today delegates from Rural Counties in the 5th Judical District converged on the Onondaga County Democratic Committee Headquarters for the holding of the Democratic nomination of Supreme Court Judges.

In the room were delegates from Herkimer, Onieda, Lewis, Jefferson, Oswego and Onondaga. All of which had traveled to Syracuse to voice support for a unified ticket moving into Novembers election.

(L-R) Sandra Cole- Alternate,
Ron Cole - Delegate/Legislative Candidate
and Ted Ford - Delegate.

First and formost on the minds of North Country Delegates was push to forge a united front in efforts to ensure that those Candidates from with open judicial seats be given every oportunity to retain those seats. Once we entered the Convention, it was clear that this was a concern that was held by all in attendance.

It took a good few hours to work out the specifics but at the end of the day the delegates agreed to list Charlie Merrell (Lewis) and Patrick McRae (Oneida) the first and second position on the ballot. This will give those candidates first crack at voters on November 8th.

Judge Charlie Merrell (Lewis County)
thanks the Delegates for their support

A great debt of gratitude is owed to judicial candidates David Magnarelli and Tom Buckle. Both candidates went above and beyond today to ensure that Lewis and Oneida have the best possible positition on the ballot come election day. Residents of the 5th Judicial district also owe a big thank you to Watertown NY attorney Mike Schell. Mike was a main organizer of the home rule push and was a true leader in the protection of those open seats.

Today was a proud day for members of the Jefferson County Democratic Committee. From the begining, the JCDC has been on the front line of the fight for home rule and with the results of todays convention our efforts will be felt for generations to come.

Judge Merrell is having a party and you're invited!

2011-09-16T20:58:00.002-04:00

The Honorable Lee Clary,

Catherine Burns Quencer, Esq.

Michael W. Schell, Esq.
and
Assemblymember Addie J. Russell

Invite you to join them

for an evening wine tasting reception in support of

Judge Charles Merrell

for Supreme Court Justice

When: Thursday, September 22nd

From: 6:30pm-8pm

Where: Coyote Moon Vineyards

             17371 County Road 3
               Clayton, NY 13624
Suggested: Individual $30
Donation   Couple $50
                  Friends $100

Judge Merrell is the only candidate for Supreme Court in the 5th Judicial District rated

‘Highly Qualified’ by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Committee.

He is also the only candidate for Supreme Court with full-time judicial experience.

Your contribution today will ensure our Judicial District has an immensely qualified, experienced and dedicated Judge on the bench. Thank you for your support.

Please make contributions payable to:

Friends of Judge Merrell for Supreme Court
P.O. Box 376
Lowville, New York 13367
Or via online donation at www.ElectMerrell.com

RSVP: ElectMerrell@gmail.com

Governor Cuomo Directs Flags To Half-Staff

2011-09-16T20:43:00.003-04:00

Fallen Soldiers Honored by Governor

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, September 20 in honor of two Fort Drum soldiers who died on September 8.

Army Specialist Koran P. Contreras and Private 1st Class Douglas J. Jeffries, Jr. died of wounds suffered when their unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. They were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment of the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team, stationed at Fort Drum. Specialist Contreras was from Lawndale, California, and Private 1st Class Jeffries, Jr. was from Springville, California.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Specialist Contreras and Private First Class Jeffries," Governor Cuomo said. "We will mourn these Fort Drum soldiers and we will honor their sacrifice.”

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Vote Disalvatore Legislator District 12

2011-09-15T07:29:00.003-04:00

Carl Disalvatore

(Leg Candidate District 12)

Talks Platform on the Hotline

God Bless Those Who Have Fallen

2011-09-11T08:46:00.000-04:00

On this special day please take a moment to remember those who fell, those who will fall and those who are left behind in our name. God bless and keep them.

Eat at Maggie's and Help Out North Country Families

2011-09-06T21:14:00.000-04:00

Maggies on the River

Raises funds for

Urban Mission

Show your support for the Watertown Urban Mission this month by eating at Maggies on the River, 500 Newell Street, Watertown. After all, if you’re going to eat out, might as well have some of that bill go to your favorite nonprofit.

Just order up your favorite dish and tell them you’re eating for the Watertown Urban Mission. It’s that easy and 10 percent of your food bill will come back to the Mission. It’s all part of the restaurant’s charitable September promotion. They’re going to have a leader board and everything, so as an added bonus, help raise awareness of your Watertown Urban Mission by pushing us up that leader board.

So if you stop by with friends for any food, be it some Thai spring rolls or fried calamari to start and get maybe a Grilled Cheeseburger—that's a burger between two grilled cheese sandwiches—or the Lobster Ravioli pasta dinner. So to review, just tell them that you are dining for the Watertown Urban Mission so 10 percent of your bill will come back to us no matter if we're number 1 or number 20. That sounds like a great deal for everyone.

For more information search Maggies Charitable September in Facebook, and to see a menu go to http://www.makeitmaggies.com/. This event is also sponsored by My ABC 50, the Border 106.7, and the CW 14/22.

Judge Merrell Endorsed by Labor Unions

2011-09-06T20:34:00.002-04:00

Judge Charlie Merrell

Backed by Blue Collar

Workforce

Judge Charles Merrell from Lowville, NY, a candidate for Supreme Court Justice in the 5th Judicial District, recently received the endorsement of the three major labor councils in the district.
The Central and Northern New York Building and Construction Trades Council; the Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties Central Trades and Labor Council, AFL-CIO; and the AFL-CIO Central New York Labor Council all unanimously endorsed Judge Merrell. These three labor councils and their numerous affiliates and local unions, represent thousands of working men and women throughout Central and Northern New York.

"To receive the endorsement from the three major labor councils that cover the 5th Judicial District is an honor and a privilege,” Judge Merrell said. “For over twelve years I’ve worked very hard as a judge, including acting Supreme Court Justice since 2007. It’s nice to know that hard work and experience is appreciated by the labor organizations that represent thousands of working men and women in the district.”

On top of being endorsed by labor councils throughout the district, Judge Charles Merrell was the only candidate to receive the highest rating given by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission (“IJEQC”). Out of seven Supreme Court candidates in the 5th Judicial District rated by the IJEQC, Judge Merrell was the only candidate rated “highly qualified”.

In a letter addressed to the Honorable Charles C. Merrell, the IJEQC stated, “after due consideration of your background and qualifications, the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission for the Fifth Judicial District has found that you are highly qualified for election as New York State Supreme Court Justice.”

To see the IJEQC ratings for the 2011 Supreme Court candidates in the 5th Judicial District, visit
http://www.nycourts.gov/courts/ad4/IJEQC/IJEQC-ratings-11-5JD.html

To find out more about Judge Charles Merrell and his campaign for State Supreme Court, visit http://www.electmerrell.com/ or www.facebook.com/electmerrell .

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T01:20:00.000-04:00

Let us Not Forget

Those Who Gave

First let us wish you a very Happy Labor Day. As we take the time with our families and enjoy those last few days of Summer it's so important to remember those in the labor movement who have given so much to make this country better for everyone regardless of their relationship to labor.

Labors original purpose was to simply allow for a safe working enviorment for all. Since those early days labor has broadened its scope to succesfully lobby for every important issue facing the working class. Some of these things which can so easily be taken for granted are:

The 5 day work week
Employer Based Health Coverage
Family and Medical Leave
Overtime Pay
Child Labor Laws
Paid Vacation, Maternity leave
Pension Programs
Workers Compensation
Medicare
Occupational Health and Safety and so much more.

These are things that we think of as a given and yet without a unified voice none would be a reality.

The next time someone expresses their opinions that our country would be better without Unions ask them if they would like to live in a Country without them. Its clear what their answer would be.

Below is a listing that thinkprogress.org noted as their top 5 programs that Labor has done for each of us. It's good way to gauge the effect that Organized Labor has had on the working class.

1. Unions Gave Us The Weekend: Even the ultra-conservative Mises Institute notes that the relatively labor-free 1870, the average workweek for most Americans was 61 hours — almost double what most Americans work now. Yet in the late nineteenth century and the twentieth century, labor unions engaged in massive strikes in order to demand shorter workweeks so that Americans could be home with their loved ones instead of constantly toiling for their employers with no leisure time. By 1937, these labor actions created enough political momentum to pass the Fair Labor Standards Act, which helped create a federal framework for a shorter workweek that included room for leisure time.

2. Unions Gave Us Fair Wages And Relative Income Equality: As ThinkProgress reported earlier in the week, the relative decline of unions over the past 35 years has mirrored a decline in the middle class’s share of national income. It is also true that at the time when most Americans belonged to a union — a period of time between the 1940′s and 1950′s — income inequality in the U.S. was at its lowest point in the history of the country.

3. Unions Helped End Child Labor: “Union organizing and child labor reform were often intertwined” in U.S. history, with organization’s like the “National Consumers’ League” and the National Child Labor Committee” working together in the early 20th century to ban child labor. The very first American Federation of Labor (AFL) national convention passed “a resolution calling on states to ban children under 14 from all gainful employment” in 1881, and soon after states across the country adopted similar recommendations, leading up to the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act which regulated child labor on the federal level for the first time.

4. Unions Won Widespread Employer-Based Health Coverage: “The rise of unions in the 1930′s and 1940′s led to the first great expansion of health care” for all Americans, as labor unions banded workers together to negotiate for health coverage plans from employers. In 1942, “the US set up a National War Labor Board. It had the power to set a cap on all wage increases. But it let employers circumvent the cap by offering “fringe benefits” – notably, health insurance.” By 1950, “half of all companies with fewer than 250 workers and two-thirds of all companies with more than 250 workers offered health insurance of one kind or another.”

5. Unions Spearheaded The Fight For The Family And Medical Leave Act: Labor unions like the AFL-CIO federation led the fight for this 1993 law, which “requires state agencies and private employers with more than 50 employees to provide up to 12 weeks of job-protected unpaid leave annually for workers to care for a newborn, newly adopted child, seriously ill family member or for the worker’s own illness.”

Take the Pledge and Join the Fight!

2011-09-04T08:33:00.004-04:00

Labor Day Message from AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka

Disalvatore Castigates SUNY Canton Plan

2011-09-02T20:24:00.002-04:00

Disalvatore Calls SUNY Cost Cutting Plans;
Short Sighted and Ineffective
Joe Kennedy is the Leader that SUNY needs to follow

Carl Disalvatore, Candidate for Jefferson County legislature and instructor at SUNY Canton, believes that the growth of SUNY Canton can be directly attributed to the leadership and vision of its leader Joe Kennedy. In a press release Disalvatore stated:

I have been teaching both part and full-time at SUNY Canton since 2006 when the new Legal Studies program was under development. This program is a good example of Dr. Kennedy’s leadership. The Business Department found that there were about 13 or more 2 year degree producing programs in the SUNY system, but no 4 year bachelor’s degree program in legal studies.

The U.S. Department of Labor identified paralegals as a fast growing job category with an employer preference for individuals with a four year degree who had more developed analytical and writing skills. Under Dr. Kennedy’s direction the program was developed and approved by SUNY and there are now over 100 students. Since the time I began working at SUNY Canton at least 6 more bachelor degrees programs have been approved and each year set new enrollment records.

Again drawing on my personal experiences I was asked to learn to instruct online as well as develop online courses. Well, I’m an over 50 year old “old dog” and I expressed considerable reluctance to try this. However, under the encouragement and tutoring of the exceptional people recruited by Dr. Kennedy to run the online learning department. I find this meets the need of a large number of single mothers as well as working parents who can complete the assignments on their time. Drawing these students from all over the state into these SUNY Canton programs helps them increase their earning potential as well as enriches the classes for all the students who participate.

I’ve told Dr. Kennedy he gives Ph.D.’s a bad name, as he breaks the mold of the stereotypical Ph.D “egghead” with his energy, enthusiasm, astute business sense, as well as his dedication not only to the college, but to the people of the State of New York.

About 5 years ago in a social setting I broached the subject of SUNY consolidations as to an outsider like me it looked like a logical cost cutting step. His response was very insightful, as he told me that the minimal savings in salaries will be more than offset by the loss of identity of the schools and the resultant loss of the support of alumni, both financial and moral. As I learned over the years, this is in fact true, and this loss of identity and support is now being played out. Those years ago he said, just give me a budget cut goal and I’ll meet it, but there is no advantage to consolidation. I came to realize the accuracy of his response to me.

Dr. Kennedy’s insight and leadership is needed now more than ever in the SUNY system.

Carl Disalvatore

Ron Cole Supports Library Expansion

2011-08-31T23:16:00.001-04:00

Want Small Government? Vote Democrat

2011-08-24T21:50:00.008-04:00

Big Government?

Obama Has 273,000 Fewer Federal Employees

Than Reagan

Don't believe? Look it up below

By Ray Medeiros

Politicus USA

Every single Republican today talks about being a Reagan conservative. This is a conservative that believes in small government, reducing federal spending and ultimately runs a lean and mean government. They talk about this stuff in campaigns, but in practice they failed miserably.

In fact HISTORICALLY, it is has been Democratic presidents who have reduced the size of the federal government. The Republicans have lied to the people so much that I believe the current crop somehow BELIEVES the history as they have been told, rather than researching the facts for themselves. This may be a stretch, but I am trying to give them the benefit of the doubt.

According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, which tracks the number of employees per year, the data shows that the “conservatives” for small government are really just big government conservatives. I know that is an oxymoron, but numbers don’t lie.
Let’s start with President Carter.

On December 31st 1976 (Not Carter’s term yet), total nonmilitary personnel was 2,883,000. By December 31st 1980 the end of his term (minus a month), the total in nonmilitary personnel was 2,875,000.

Federal government nonmilitary employees shrunk by 8,000 employees under Carter.
On January 21st, 1981, President Reagan started with 2,875,000 nonmilitary federal employees.

By the end of Reagan’s terms the total number of nonmilitary federal employees was 3,113,000. That is an INCREASE of 238,000

Let’s move on to President George H.W. Bush.
>

On January 20th, 1989, total federal nonmilitary employment was 3,113,000
by the end of his only term, President George H.W. Bush had 3,083,000 federal nonmilitary employees on the books. That is a REDUCTION of 30,000 employees.

President Bill Clinton came into office with 3,083,000 and by the END of his TWO TERMS he reduced the number of Federal employees to 2,703,000. That is a reduction of 380,000 federal employees...

To read more click HERE

THE UNION IS ALIVE AND WELL

2011-08-24T20:41:00.002-04:00

Woo-hoo!

Another Teamster organizing victory

in MA, NY, CA and IN

Teamsers announced that they have organizes thousand of new brothers and sisters at UPS Freight clerks today. By the members signing authorization cards they have now joined one of the Countries largest labor unions.

The press release sent out earlier today stated:

Majorities of clerks at Stoneham, Mass., signed cards to join Teamsters Local 25; Farmingdale, N.Y. clerks have joined Local 707; Rialto and Fontana, Calif., clerks have become members of Local 63 and Indianapolis clerks have joined Local 135. Clerks are also being signed up at more than 80 other terminals.

The clerks are full-time and part-time workers who see to it that freight dispatch, billings and operations run smoothly at UPS Freight terminals. They work side-by-side with Teamster drivers and dockworkers, where as former Overnite workers they saw the union's strength.

Brian Buhle, international vice president and secretary-treasurer of Local 135, in Indiana said,
There are some very excited clerks in Indianapolis who have been interested in joining the union since 2006, when the UPS Freight organizing drive began here.
Said Kevin McCaffrey, president of Teamsters Local 707 in New York,

The clerical workers in Long Island who signed cards and are now represented by the Teamsters are eager for more workers to sign cards, so we can get down to the business of negotiating a contract for them.

Welcome aboard!

New York Remembers...Comes to Watertown

2011-08-23T20:54:00.009-04:00

Watertown NY
To House
"NY Remembers"
9/11 Exibit

Governor Cuomo has announced that the Dulles State Office Building in Watertown NY will be one of 30 sites housing artifacts from the "NY Remembers" exhibition. The exhibit will showcase relics from Ground Zero and various items connected with the 2001 attack. Governor Cuomo, in his support of this exhibit, has ensured we will never forget those lost on that tragic day.

The exhibitions will give New Yorkers a place to remember the victims of September 11th and honor the countless heroes who came from all corners of the state to help in the clean-up and recovery efforts. The exhibitions will feature historical artifacts from the collections of the State Museum and National September 11 Memorial & Museum.
Each location will open during the week of August 29th and continue until the end of September. All will be open on Sunday, September 11th.

Many of the artifacts being exhibited have never been seen by the public, including: the trailer used by families visiting Ground Zero that includes photographs and messages; damaged emergency vehicles and other vehicle parts; aluminum and glass from the buildings; religious "symbol steel" created by the workers at the site; and airplane fragments including landing gear and engine parts. The stories behind all the artifacts will be told as part of the exhibitions.

"Every community across New York felt the impact of the senseless acts of terrorism that claimed thousands of lives just one decade ago," Governor Cuomo said. "These exhibitions will give New Yorkers in towns, villages, and cities all across the state a gathering place to once again stand as one community to make sure we never forget those who lost their lives on September 11th and to embrace the spirit of unity that brought us together on that day of devastating tragedy."

CWA & IBEW Return to Work....Lets Keep Up the Pressure

2011-08-23T20:34:00.003-04:00

Striking CWA And IBEW Workers Return To Work At Verizon

Maintaining Unity As They Seek New Contracts

By Doug Cunningham

Workers Independent News

[Danny Gutierrez]: "The battle continues and we will stay united until we get a fair contract. I want to thank all of my union brothers and sisters, both from land line and the wireless side, for their support in this fight. This is a true David and Goliath story being played out right now. Daid will once again win."

CWA Local 1101's Danny Gutierrez on the Verizon strike ending today. Striking Verizon workers return to work today under indefinite extensions of their existing collective bargaining agreements. Communications Workers of America President Larry Cohen says the unity striking CWA and IBEW workers demonstrated in their two-week strike will continue along with continued union mobilization until a new collective bargaining agreement is won at Verizon.

[Cohen]: "That will go on. Not only until we have a decent contract but until working people feel like they can join a union - any union - and bargain with their head held high across this country. We should return united as much as we can, marching in together - literally - at the start of a shift. For now our unity will be to support the bargaining team and to show it. But if that process doesn't work in the weeks ahead, management absolutely knows that that unity will again be directed at them."

Cohen says the unions and working Americans everywhere need to build a new democracy movement to battle corporate power's assault on the middle class. Myles Calvey is IBEW Local 2222 Business Manager.

[Calvey]: "In good faith we've decided to have our members go back and see if we can least change the process. The process up to this point has been a hundred percent concessionary. And as we've explained to the company, even if we were crazy enough to come to a tentative agreement it would never be accepted by the membership, so it was a complete waste of time."
Read more HERE

Governor Cuomo Directs Flags To Half-Staff

2011-08-23T20:05:00.002-04:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, August 24 in honor of a soldier from Kingston who died in Zabul, Afghanistan on August 19.

Army Private 1st Class Douglas L. Cordo died of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was a member of the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment of the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division based at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to the friends, family, and fellow soldiers of Private First Class Cordo," Governor Cuomo said. "We will mourn the loss of this New York soldier and we will remember his dedication to our nation."

Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags on all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to our state's service members and those stationed in New York who are killed in action or die in a combat zone.

Stewart Prophesizes..

2011-08-22T20:38:00.000-04:00

The Daily Show - Armadebtdon 2011 - Rightans
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Commissioner Aubertine Announces Grant to Promote Local Foods

2011-08-22T19:25:00.006-04:00

Federal Matching Grant Promotes

Local Foods Through

Beds and Breakfasts

ALBANY, NY (08/22/2011)(readMedia)-- A federal matching grant will boost local food producers and tourism by encouraging bed and breakfast operators to feature locally produced food and agricultural products. New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine announced the $73,824 grant awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP). New York is one of 19 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to receive 25 grants.

The Department will receive the grant in cooperation with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County, which will lead the two-year project, NOFA-NY, the Empire State B&B Association, Central New York Bounty, the New York Small Scale Food Processors Association and the University of Illinois Extension.

"This continues our efforts to boost locally produced food products in New York and to encourage agri-tourism," said Commissioner Aubertine. "This is another market channel for our local producers that will help them build their business."

"FSMIP provides our state partners with matching funds to explore new and innovative approaches to marketing U.S. food and agricultural products," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan. "USDA supports state and local projects ranging from research to retail to ensure that quality American products are marketed efficiently and effectively."

Steve Miller of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County said, "This is a great opportunity for New York producers to have visitors from outside the State, as well as New Yorkers, to be able to taste the high quality foods we have to offer and to be able to bring some of these back home with them. The project stands to benefit both the tourism and agriculture industries."

The program will encourage B&B operators to feature locally produced food and agricultural products in meals served to their guests, carry shelf stable local products such as jams, maple syrup and sauces, and to measure the economic impact on producers of sales made through this specialized marketing channel.

All producer organizations and B&B owners are encouraged to participate in the project which will begin this Fall. For more information on how to participate: contact Steve Miller at sgm6@cornell.edu 315 684-3001 x127 or Jonathan Thomson at jonathan.thomson@agmkt.state.ny.us.

Original post on newzjunky.com

JUDGE CHARLES MERRELL ONLY SUPREME COURT CANDIDATE RATED ‘HIGHLY QUALIFIED’

2011-08-22T19:07:00.002-04:00

Judge Charles Merrell from Lowville, NY, a candidate for Supreme Court Justice in the 5th Judicial District, was the only candidate to receive the highest rating given by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission (“IJEQC”). Out of seven Supreme Court candidates in the 5th Judicial District rated by the IJEQC, Judge Merrell was the only candidate rated “highly qualified”. The other six candidates were all rated as “qualified”.

In a letter addressed to the Honorable Charles C. Merrell, the IJEQC stated, “after due consideration of your background and qualifications, the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission for the Fifth Judicial District has found that you are highly qualified for election as New York State Supreme Court Justice.”

The IJEQC Statement of Ethical Guidelines states, “Voters will have greater confidence in the judicial election process if they know that judicial candidates were screened by independent screening panels and found to possess the qualities necessary for effective judicial performance.”

"I’m honored to receive the highest rating given by the IJEQC for Supreme Court candidates in the 5th Judicial District,” Judge Merrell said. “As the only candidate in the race with full-time judicial experience, including acting Supreme Court Justice since 2007, I'm prepared to continue to serve the residents of my home county, and the entire 5th Judicial District, as State Supreme Court Justice.”

To see the IJEQC ratings for the 2011 Supreme Court candidates in the 5th Judicial District, visit HERE

WE'RE BACK!!!!

2011-08-20T15:40:00.000-04:00

CWA RETURNS TO WORK..

2011-08-20T15:34:00.005-04:00

CWA MEMBERS RETURN TO WORK

Need to keep up pressure is stressed

Members of Communication Workers of America (CWA) and their supporters have been walking a picket line here in the North Country and across the State for over two weeks.
Assemblywoman Addie Russell, Chairman Sean Hennessey, Legislative candidates Carl Disalvatore & Ron Cole ,County Legislator Allen Drake, former Jefferson County Treasurer Nancy Brown and members of the Jefferson County Democratic Committee have all been honored to help walk the line. Today some of our team was on hand when word came down the line that CWA members will be returning to work this Tuesday.

“To be on the line when this historic moment happened was something I'll never forget. When word came to the line and we saw the smiles on those sun drenched faces truly moved our team.” Jefferson County Democratic Chairman Sean Hennessey said.

“These hard working men and women have walked in pouring rain and 90 plus degree weather but never gave up hope. We’re overjoyed to hear that negotiations will be taking place and that those hard working members of CWA will return to work. We’re extremely thankful to have been given a chance to voice our concern for working class families across this region. There is still work to be done until a fair contract is in place.” He said.

Chairman Hennessey added “Considering their record profitability, we call on the leadership of Verizon Communications to negotiate a contract that recognizes their employees as their most valuable resource. “

Commissioner Aubertine visits the North Country

2011-05-13T21:06:00.005-04:00

Assemblywoman Addie Russell & Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush welcomed former Senator and current Commissioner for the New York State Department of Ag and Markets today to Jefferson Community College.

Commissioner Aubertine was in town to discuss the need to get everyday people involved in the discussion on how to move New York back in the right direction. During the speech the Commissioner outlined the Governors vision on a number of important topics that effect everyday people from across the region.

The one thing that is clear from the reaction of the crowd to Darrels entrance into the room was the North Country has a great respect for Darrel Aubertine. As he entered the room you could hear "Darrel!!" and "Commissioner!!" being shouted from across the room. The standing ovation lasted quite a while and everyone in the room, Democrat and Republican, expressed their appreciation for our former Senator.

The Governor couldn't have picked a better person to champion the push for change. Through out the speech it was clear that our elected state representatives understand the plight of their constituents and are ready to champion the cause for a better NY.

Promises...Promises...Promises!!!

2011-05-02T20:12:00.006-04:00

Jude Seymour (WWNY) has an interesting article (click here) on how Senator Ritchie has now reneged on yet another campaign promise.

Many readers recall that during her campaign run, Patty made a big issue (click here) about how State budget plans to rein in STAR rebate check spending was unacceptable. Flash forward to her current position (click here) and you can see that her passionate defense of the homeowners was more like rhetoric reserved for the campaign trail. She stated that STAR had to be left intact, but she is pulling back on that campaign promise. Apparently it's much easier to make campaign promises than to pass legislation.

The North Country Democrat recently linked to an article that points out how Senator Ritchie had reneged on a pivotal campaign promise (click here) to implement an independent redistricting commission. The Independent Commission would gather representatives from various political parties to redraw State Legislative districts lines based on 2010 census information. Polls have consistently shown that residents of the State are heavily in favor of changing the current process of gerrymandering State and Local District lines in favor of Majority parties.

Senator Ritchie's inability to get critical legislation passed has left many across the district wondering how effective she is in advocating for Northern and Central NY. They are also wondering how effective our Freshman legislator is in following through on key pieces of her campaign platform? Were these promises or just simply words that the campaign thought North Country residents wanted to hear?

We deserve better and the North Country is watching.

A Real Vission of Our Future...

2011-04-22T10:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Ernie!!

2011-04-22T09:17:00.005-04:00

A HERO TO US ALL!

Today is the birthday of an Icon for working class families across this country. Ernie Labaff (we won't say how old he is) is an incredible person that has spent his life standing up for the safe working environment, fair wages and social justice for the working class. Ernie has been the voice of the voiceless and today we celebrate his life's work.

The North Country Democrat will never forget a speech that was given by Ernie at the Watertown Fairgrounds a few years back. This was a rally put on by the Jefferson County Democratic Party in tribute to the men and women of labor. I don't think the crowd knew what to expect when Ernie walked up to the podium. Not a tall man in height but an absolute giant among men. By the end of the speech you could feel the pulse of everyone in attendance blasting red, white and blue.

Ernie is a devout man that has instilled in his extended family the right and responsibility of every man and woman to be a voice for the voiceless. On this day we need to thank Ernie and his family for what they have done and sacrificed for so many across this country.

If you see Ernie today or the coming days please pat him on the back and thank him for his selfless dedication. God bless you Ernie and thank you!

Happy Earth Day 2011!

2011-04-22T08:30:00.003-04:00

Today is Earth Day and WOW h0w far we've come. Recycling programs have helped to re purpose vast amounts of products that we consume back into the magazines we read, the computer I'm typing on and countless other daily use items. Alternative energy sources have curbed millions of tons of carbon from being released into the atmosphere. Simple things like switching from the incandescent bulbs to florescent have not only helped the environment but has also made a dent in the ever increasing invoice from National Grid. From tapping into land fills to pull Methane to the new breed of Hybrid vehicles we have accomplished much in the last decade.

These worthy programs have refocused our attentions on the need to conserve resources. As we've seen by the radical shift in global climate, our planet needs our help and it looks like we're finally starting to get it.

As Neil Armstrong made that historic first step...hopefully future generations will look back at our efforts as the first steps in a greener tomorrow. Have a great Earth Day!!
Click HERE for more on Earth Day

2011-04-15T20:25:00.001-04:00

Congressman Bill Owens released the following statement after voting against a budget resolution offered by Budget Committee Chairman Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI). “While we all agree that it is well-past time to cut federal spending and get our fiscal house in order, we must do so in a responsible way that does not cripple Medicare or Social Security, or stifle the momentum we have seen in the way of job creation,” Owens said. “Mr. Ryan’s priorities do not reflect the values of Upstate New York. It is my hope that we can come together once again and incorporate the best ideas from President Obama and both sides of the aisle in Congress as Washington moves forward to craft a 2012 budget that focuses on job creation, deficit and debt reduction, and turning the nation’s view to one of bipartisan problem solving, leading us to continued prosperity.” The budget resolution passed the U.S. House of Representatives today by a vote of 235-193. The House GOP budget is not expected to pass the Senate or the President’s desk.

The North Country Looses a Very Special Person

2011-04-09T20:50:00.004-04:00

The North Country Democrat is very sad to report that long time Committee person Regina Barbalich has passed away. The Barbalich family were the owner/operators of Barbalich Market on NYS Rt 3 for many generation. Although Regina has been mostly home bound for the last few years her selfless dedication to our party and community led to great wins over the last decade. Details of Regina's service are yet to be released. Please check back soon for more details.

The Union is a Clear Advantage

2011-04-09T09:11:00.006-04:00

Teamsters offer Scholarship

Each year, the Teamsters Union awards thousands of dollars to deserving students through scholarships. Among other prizes, awards totaling $1,000 are given to students who answer a specific question through essays. Last year, applicants were asked to write about how their parents’ or grandparent’s involvement in the Teamsters has influenced their lives. Winners were decided and awards were given before the war on workers was declared, but we felt these students’ messages about working families are timeless.

For Imelda Larios, daughter of Local 630 member Daniel Larios, union membership is about more than building a strong middle class. For Larios, union membership exemplifies everything positive about being an American, from a chance at a dream to the values of democracy.

The Teamsters work hard to educate all of their members so that they will be better prepared for any kind of situation in the workplace. All the Teamsters are like one big family and I know that no matter what happens my father’s voice will be heard through the Teamsters.

My father’s membership has taught me the importance of a democratic society in which people can organize and fight for fair treatment. Through the Teamsters I have come to see that being a part of the union is a clear advantage. The Teamsters negotiations with employers allow for a higher pay, better health care and overall, a less stressful career.

The Teamsters are important to be because they allow me to stay informed through my father. As I start to enter the workplace, I am more aware of my rights and am better prepared to defend myself should I be mistreated in the workplace.

To read more from the Teamsters please click HERE

Buy it or loose it...it's up to you!

2011-04-09T08:49:00.004-04:00

The North Country Democrat woke up to a gorgeous day in the North Country and a beautiful sight in the Fridge as well.

Florida's Natural Orange Juice is now certifying their product as 100% made of USA grown oranges!!! The other major brand (that we won't mention) has allot to learn about selling product in a country plagued by off shoring products.

Please take the time to find these "Made in the USA" products. If not for these courageous companies many American families and communities would be in desperate straights.

Thank you Florida's Natural!!! You're now The North Country Democrats perfered Orange Juice.

BUY AMERICAN TODAY!!!

Owens Fights for Troop Pay During Shutdown

2011-04-07T21:13:00.002-04:00

Liar Liar...

2011-04-06T22:07:00.005-04:00

By Jude Seymour Story Published: Apr 5, 2011 at 11:24 AM EDT Ed Koch promised Tuesday to robocall north country residents and tell them that their state lawmaker reneged on a pledge to take partisanship out of the process of redrawing political boundary lines. The former New York City mayor has given Sens. Patty Ritchie and Joe Griffo and Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush until Friday to co-sponsor legislation that would ensure independent redistricting for the 2012 elections. If they don't comply, Koch will re-brand his former "heroes" as "enemies" of reform. Senate Republicans have argued that they upheld the spirit of their election-year pledge by passing a one-house bill to make constitutional adjustments to the redistricting process. Koch said Majority Leader Dean Skelos "disgraced himself by repudiating his written pledge," adding the Long Island senator was "foolishly ignoring the mandate which returned his conference to the majority last year: a mandate for Albany reform." Independent redistricting is nebulous concept for a lot of people, but it's an important one. To read more from Jude Setmour from WWNY by clicking HERE

What a wonderful legacy!

2011-04-05T22:05:00.002-04:00

A Well Deserved Day for Darrel Aubertine and the North Country!

2011-04-05T21:41:00.005-04:00

Governor Cuomo Announces Unanimous

Senate Confirmation of Ken Adams as

President / CEO of ESDC and

Darrel Aubertine as Commissioner of AG & Markets

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the State Senate unanimously confirmed Kenneth Adams as President and CEO of the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development, and Darrel J. Aubertine as Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and Markets.

"Darrel and Ken are intrinsic to the reinvention and reopening of New York as a destination for good jobs and growth," Governor Cuomo said. "Darrel's expertise on agricultural matters and his tireless advocacy for farmers in the state legislature is unmatched. Ken knows what it takes to keep private sector jobs from leaving and bring new ones to the state. He will be essential to my administration's message that New York is open for business. I thank Senators Skelos, DeFrancisco, Alesi, Ranzenhofer and Ritchie for ushering these nominations to confirmation."

Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Darrel Aubertine said, "New York's diverse agricultural industry and vast marketplace requires responsible oversight and advocacy – roles I am proud to take on. Governor Cuomo's vision of creating greater access to locally produced farm and food products sets the stage for a resurgence of our economy and offers hope for farming communities across the state. I look forward to working with our agricultural partners to help our farmers and industry flourish."

Darrel J. Aubertine most recently served as State Senator of the 48th Senate District in Central and Northern New York, which is comprised of Oswego, Jefferson and part of St. Lawrence counties. He served as chair of both the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Rural Resources Commission, and as the ranking majority member and vice chair of the Energy & Telecommunications Committee. Before joining the Senate in 2008, Mr. Aubertine represented the 118th Assembly district in the New York State Assembly for five years, where he served as the chair of the Commission on State-Local Relations. From 1996-2001, he was a member of the Jefferson County Legislature and was elected to chair in 1998. Mr. Aubertine's career in government began in 1994, when he served as a member of the Cape Vincent Town Council.

Since 1971, Mr. Aubertine has owned and operated the sixth-generation heritage Triple-A Farm in Cape Vincent, for which he purchased a plot of land while still in high school. Mr. Aubertine has been a member of numerous cooperatives and organizations, including the Cape Vincent Milk Producers, Allied and Eastern, Agway, St. Lawrence County Farm Bureau, the New York State Farm Bureau, and the Dairy Herd Improvement Association.

Senator Patty Ritchie, Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, said, "I'm confident that together will be able to help insure that the Department of Agriculture and Markets works as a partner with our farm families to help revitalize the upstate economy. Commissioner Aubertine will be able to help me look out for the needs of our neighbors and friends across the state and in St. Lawrence, Jefferson and Oswego counties." Senator Tim M. Kennedy, Ranking Member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business, said, "With the nomination of Darrel Aubertine, farmers can trust that they have someone looking out for them at the head of the Department of Agriculture and Markets – someone who as a seventh-generation farmer uniquely understands the agriculture community.

At a time when New Yorkers are hungry for job creation and economic development, Ken Adams is an excellent choice to take the helm at the Empire State Development Corporation. Steering New York along the road to recovery will not be an easy task, but with Commissioner Adams's and Commissioner Aubertine's tested and proven abilities, we will develop and enact the right policies to rebuild our state's economy by creating jobs." Senator Bill Perkins, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, said, "Based on Mr. Adams' wealth of knowledge, experience, and reputation in the business community I am hopeful that the Governor has made an excellent choice in his selection of Mr. Adams as the new President and CEO of ESDC. I look forward to working closely with Mr. Adams to help revitalize New York's economy by advancing the opportunities for small businesses and MWBEs to thrive." Acting-President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State, Inc.

Heather Briccetti said, "Kenneth Adams understands business in New York and what it will take to make the state more competitive. He is an outstanding choice to lead the Empire State Development Corporation. The Business Council congratulates Kenneth on his confirmation and Governor Cuomo on making a great appointment." Rob Simpson, President of CenterState CEO, said, "Ken has the knowledge, experience and positive attitude needed to achieve real economic transformation in the state. He will do a great job at ESDC on behalf of businesses everywhere and I look forward to working with him in this new chapter of his career." Dean Norton, President of the New York Farm Bureau, said, "NYFB welcomes Darrel Aubertine as the new Commissioner at the Department of Agriculture and Markets. Farmers and our organization have had a great relationship with him through the years, and look forward to his leadership at a critical time in the food and agriculture sector in New York. NYFB is pleased to see his enthusiasm for the opportunities in agriculture today and looks forward to working with the Commissioner and Governor Cuomo in the years to come."

David J. Skorton, President of Cornell University, said, "During his long career in public service, Darrel Aubertine has proven that he understands the needs of our state's agriculture industry, is more than willing to work across the political aisle, and is a strong advocate of the role higher education plays in helping New York build a brighter future. I look forward to working with Commissioner Aubertine as we face the challenges and the opportunities ahead."

White House Press Briefing: President Obama on Budget Negotiations

2011-04-05T20:14:00.000-04:00

Commissioner Aubertine Praised by Goo Goos

2011-04-05T19:23:00.003-04:00

Business and agriculture groups are cheering the confirmations of Kenneth Adams to lead the Empire State Development Corp. and former Sen. Darrel Aubertine as the new commissioner of Agriculture and Markets. Both were confirmed this afternoon unanimously by the state Senate after first being nominated at the beginning of the year. The Rochester-based Unshackle Upstate called both confirmations good news for businesses. “Unshackle Upstate congratulates Kenneth Adams and Darrel Aubertine on their respective confirmations by the New York State Senate as the new Commissioner of the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and Commissioner of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. With these appointments, Governor Cuomo and members of the Senate have demonstrated that they are committed to strengthening the Upstate economy. We look forward to working with Commissioner Adams and Commissioner Aubertine..... To see more from Capital Tonight click HERE

Addie Russell on a Resolution Honoring Children of Military Families part 2

2011-04-05T19:22:00.000-04:00

Addie Russell on a Resolution Honoring Children of Military Families part 1

2011-04-05T19:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Presidents day!

2011-02-21T08:53:00.003-05:00

Here's a video that we hope inspires all those budding community leaders out there to push this state and Country in the right direction. Have a great day!

Abraham Lincoln Wrote Playbook for Wis. Dems Who Fled the State

2011-02-20T17:24:00.001-05:00

by Donna Jablonski,

Wisconsin Democratic state senators who fled the state to block Gov. Scott Walker’s (R) union busting said today they have “no plans to return to the state until Walker could reach a reasonable negotiation with state employees.” Republican politicians and conservative commentators have lambasted the state senators all week for their supposed “dereliction of duty.” But those in the Party of Lincoln should look to the 16th president before they criticize the Wisconsin Democrats.

Indeed, 170 years before the Wisconsin Democrats fled Madison to deny a quorum, then-state Rep. Abraham Lincoln was fleeing the capitol in Springfield, IL — via a window, no less — to do the same in an attempt to save the State Bank of Illinois:

[Democrats] agreed to allow [the bank] to suspend its obligation to exchange its paper money for specie, but only for the remainder of the legislative session.

That’s when Lincoln determined to keep the legislature in session in order to buy precious time for the bank to find a way to survive, and that’s how he jumped into the national limelight on December 5, 1840. On that date, the Democrats proposed an early adjournment, knowing this would bring a speedy end to the State Bank. The Whigs tried to counter by leaving the capitol building before the vote, but the doors were locked. That’s when Lincoln made his move. He headed for the second story, opened a window and jumped to the ground!

Lincoln’s efforts failed, sadly, and “the bank was killed.” But as the Wall Street Journal pointed out yesterday, “The tactic of quorum avoidance by simply leaving dates back at least to the days when the U.S. Constitution was being debated”:

Legislators tried to stymie passage [of the Constitution] in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts that way, and some in Pennsylvania had to be dragged out of a tavern to vote. The Constitution passed.
Read more by clicking HERE

Congressman Finds One Million Ways to Help

2011-02-20T16:36:00.004-05:00

Here's a great article on how Congressman Owen's office is helping local families. I really like how the Congressman's office didn't give them false visions on how they would help. Check out the story by Jude Seymour by clicking HERE

Congressman Owens Fights Hard for Working Families

2011-02-19T20:55:00.003-05:00

Congressma Owens spoke recently on the House floor on the cost savings of Universal Health Care. Here is what he said.

I spoke yesterday about an amendment to HR 1 that would defund health care law. If we truly want to improve health care and cut costs, we need to work together to improve existing law while moving forward with the provisions that benefit millions of patients, physicians, and small businesses.

Every Working Man and Woman Needs to Watch This!

2011-02-16T20:47:00.008-05:00

The Man, Myth and Walking Legend

Ernie Labaff tells the story of the working man

Our Founding Father is Calling!

2011-02-15T19:27:00.009-05:00

One of the Founding Fathers of the Democratic Party, President Andrew Jackson's hand signed documents can be seen at the Jefferson County Historical Society.

The materials found at the historical Society include items like: A political pin collection including original pins from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln (this was my favorite pin), Signed letters from great historical figures like martin Van buren and Zachery Taylor and much more.

The one thing that struck me about the exhibit was the deep connection that many historical figures had with Jefferson County. Letters to local dignitaries such as the paddock family are proudly displayed with original signatures from George Washington, Abraham Lincoln many others. The below commission, signed by President Andrew Jackson, bestows the title of Captain in the Second Regiment of Infantry to a Jefferson County resident named John Bradley. I'm guessing that this is the same man that current Bradley St. is named after.

these and more historical documents can be found by visiting the Jefferson County Historical Society. We highly suggest you take the time to visit the historical society and take in these truly historic documents. $2 has never brought you so close to history.

Commissioner Darrel Aubertine's Testimony in Joint Session

2011-02-15T19:09:00.011-05:00

Commissioner Aubertine charges ahead in his support for NYS Farmers. His testimony expresses his in depth knowledge of the farming community and the needs of hard working families from across the state. We look forward to more video's on Commissioner Aubertine in action.

Owens Speaks Against Cuts to Public Broadcasting

2011-02-15T18:36:00.002-05:00

Do you remember sitting as a child and watching great programing like Sesame Street, the Electric Company and Zoom. How about today when you sit down and watch great shows like Nova, The Nightly News Report and the mutltitude of great programing on our local PBS station? Great shows that are timeless.

Sadly funding cuts are being presented that will put these shows in jeopardy. Cuts to Public Broadcasting stations will certainly put in jeopardy the exceptional programing that we've come to expect from our local PBS stations.

Public Broadcasting plays is a vital part in the education of children and adults alike and it needs to be funded. Please contact Congressman Bill Owens office and thank him for his support of public broadcasting.

Weekly Address: "It's Time Washington Acted as Responsibly as Our Families Do"

2011-02-12T15:24:00.001-05:00

The President Moves US toward 3G

2011-02-12T15:04:00.000-05:00

Come See This Exceptional Exibit!

2011-02-12T09:42:00.003-05:00

The Jefferson County Historical Society

Has An Exibit You Just Can't Miss.

by Timothy W. Scee II
Special to Newzjunky.com
Published February 12, 2011

WATERTOWN, N.Y. — The Jefferson County Historical Society welcomed over 120 guests Friday to its “Save the Presidents” reception, held for the first time since the discovery of nearly 30 documents signed by U.S. Presidents in the organization’s attic.

“The minute we found out we had them we thought, ‘Oh my gosh, we’ve got to share this with the community.’” Roxanne M. Burns, president of the historical society said.

In July 2010, volunteers uncovered the Presidential documents while sifting through a pile of papers in the attic of the organization’s building, the Paddock Mansion, at 228 Washington St.

With each room filled with refreshments, documents and re-enactors from both the colonial and Civil War eras, guests were even able to mingle with those whose ancestors had connections to President Abraham Lincoln, including Honest Abe’s” character, Benjamin P. Coe of Black River.

“We have a lot of history with Lincoln because (Coe’s) great, great grandparents knew Lincoln and they all lived in Springfield,” Coe’s wife, Margaret B., said. ......

To see more on this and other Newzjunky.com stories click HERE

Owens Pushes Free Tax Help for Upstate New York

2011-02-10T19:29:00.002-05:00

Website Offers Iinformation
for Fee Tax Filing Services

Congressman Bill Owens today announced a new section of his website dedicated to promoting free tax filing services for Upstate New Yorkers.

“Correctly filing one’s taxes can be a confusing and stressful process, and very few people know that there are free services available that can help them through these procedures,” said Owens. “During tough economic times, every penny counts and it is important that qualified tax specialists are available to the general public to help them receive the largest refund possible.”

Owens has added outreach to his Congressional website, located at HERE. New features of the website include information on how to file taxes both electronically and by mail.

AARP offers free services, run by certified tax preparers, for low-to-moderate income taxpayers of all ages every year. Upstate New Yorkers can find the nearest tax aide site by visiting Owens’ website or clicking here.

A number of organizations in New York also partner with the IRS to run a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). This free service, staffed by IRS certified tax preparers, is open to taxpayers making $50,000 or less. A full list of VITA sites in New York can be found here.

Tax preparation help from Owens’ website can be linked to directly HERE

ASSEMBLYWOMAN RUSSELL HOLDS FUNDING SESSIONS FOR FARMERS

2011-02-10T19:15:00.001-05:00

At both Watertown and Canton meetings today area farmers were introduced to the possibility that they could apply for substantial funding from NYSERDA (The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.) However, one of the key messages was that farmers had better hurry because the funding won’t last and is running out rapidly.

The Assemblywoman and Cornell Cooperative Extention joined in presenting information from Richard LeClerc (Extention) and Mitchell Graves (NYSERDA) about the program that will potentially provide up to 75% funding for energy efficient upgrades on electrical and natural gas investments. The program includes a no-charge energy audit up to $1,500 in value and farmers need not have an energy efficiency project in mind to qualify. The types of agricultural enterprises that can qualify are not limited to dairy and beef operations but could also include maple and grain producers.

Assemblywoman Russell said, “The savings to our farm families in the North Country can be very significant. If more information is needed please call 800-732-1399 for a program representative.”

Brown to Retire As County Treasurer

2011-02-01T18:41:00.002-05:00

Three-term elected official uses retirement

to draw attention to frustrations with County

Nancy D. Brown, Jefferson County Treasurer since 2000, announced her retirement today after 11 years in office, making an emphatic plea for reform—calling attention to the lack of internal controls within county administration and excessive time lost attempting to resolve weakness’s in our system.

“I feel compelled to act now to shake up the system, rather than retire peacefully,” said Brown. “I hope that this will shed some light on the need for reform in how the Legislature and administration handle the county’s fiscal matters. These are my concerns and have been shared by independent auditors.”

“I believe this mismanagement has wasted and risked taxpayer dollars. I’ve never been one to go public with my issues, choosing instead to work within the system in place. However, I’ve seen too little progress and with just a year before I planned to not seek re-election, I believe my only option is to retire now, forgo my final year, and get the public’s attention,” she continues.

“I know that my staff has been with me in this effort and the county is left in very capable hands. My staff has been a source of great friendships and support over the years, as has been the many constituents I’ve been honored to serve. I hope that this abrupt decision will get the attention of the Legislators and administration,” she said.

President Obamas address from Jan 22nd 2011

2011-01-22T11:48:00.001-05:00

White House Press Briefings are conducted most weekdays from the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room in the West Wing.

2011-01-18T20:30:00.000-05:00

Statement by the President on the Passing of Sargent Shriver

2011-01-18T20:26:00.001-05:00

I was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Sargent Shriver, one of the brightest lights of the greatest generation.

Over the course of his long and distinguished career, Sarge came to embody the idea of public service. Of his many enduring contributions, he will perhaps best be remembered as the founding director of the Peace Corps, helping make it possible for generations of Americans to serve as ambassadors of goodwill abroad.

His loss will be felt in all of the communities around the world that have been touched by Peace Corps volunteers over the past half century and all of the lives that have been made better by his efforts to address inequality and injustice here at home. My thoughts and prayers are with Robert, Maria, Tim, Mark, and Anthony, and the entire Shriver family during this sad time.

Check out Senator Gillibrand on "The View"!

2011-01-18T18:55:00.002-05:00

Owens Sworn into 112th Congress, Continues ‘War on Debt’

2011-01-18T18:49:00.003-05:00

Congressman’s First Action is to Reintroduce
Legislation to Pay Down National Debt

Congressman Bill Owens (D-NY) today was sworn in for his first full term as a member of the 112th Congress. After taking the oath of office, Owens continued his work to restore fiscal responsibility to Washington by reintroducing his legislation, The War on Debt Act of 2011. Owens previously introduced the bill in April of last year.

“I consider it a great privilege to have the opportunity to serve New York’s 23rd Congressional District,” said Owens. There is still plenty of work to do to help create jobs and get the economy moving again. My ‘War on Debt’ lays out a specific blueprint for reining in debts owed to foreign nations and putting that money – which is exempt from taxes - back in the pockets of average Americans. This is not the only way to solve our debt crisis, but this legislation begins a serious conversation that will help Congress chart a path to fiscal responsibility.”

The “War on Debt Act” addresses the national debt on two fronts. First, it creates a type of savings bond whose revenue is dedicated exclusively to paying down the national debt, beginning with debt that is held by foreign entities. Second, it sets spending limits in place for the federal government – 3% of the GDP for the annual deficit and 10% of the nation’s three-year average GDP for the national debt – ensuring that Washington can never use the bonds as a means to support reckless spending. Americans could buy the bonds knowing they will be used to pay down the national debt, and get the benefit of a tax-free investment that will yield benefits for many years.

“Just as small businesses across the country have to balance their books and working families have live within their means, Congress must learn better stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” continued Owens. “With the debt now exceeding $14 trillion, it is well past time to put our fiscal house in order. As we reduce the trillions of dollars we owe to countries like China and Japan, we will increase our negotiating position in global markets.”

The bill specifically states that the revenue generated from purchase of these “War on Debt” bonds will be dedicated to repaying the national debt, taking interest payments on existing debt out of the hands of foreign countries and putting them into the wallets of the American people.

To see more on what Congressman Owens is doing for us click HERE

The North Country Congratulates Commissioner Aubertine

2011-01-15T07:52:00.005-05:00

The North Country knows that no matter what title he holds or where he may travel Darrel Aubertine will always be "one of us!"

The North Country Democrat was able to catch up with former Senator and current Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets ,Darrel Aubertine, yesterday at Governor Cuomo's regional State of the State address in Watertown NY. Commissioner Aubertine spoke with us about what his direction will be with the agency. Here's what he had to say..

Congratulations Darrel Aubertine from Jim Cummings on Vimeo.

The one thing that was a constant during Commissioner Aubertine's time in politics was that he connected with people in a truly extraordinary way. His connections were never more evident than at yesterdays speech. The line that formed to congratulate Darrel was something to see. In classic Darrel form he took what ever time was needed to talk to each and every person that wanted to chat.

You could see a sense of relief on the faces of all assembled that although we may have come up short on this last Senate race, New York State came out way ahead with the pick of Darrel Aubertine as AG Commissioner.

Congressman Bill Owens and his wife Jane on the AZ Shooting

2011-01-14T20:48:00.003-05:00

PLATTSBURGH, NY (WAMC) - The shooting in Tucson AZ is affecting more than the national discourse over security and the blame game rhetoric. It is affecting Congressional representatives at a personal level. North Country Bureau Chief Pat Bradley looks at the individual impact on two of the region's representatives.

Listen in to part one HERE on WAMC
Listen in to part two HERE on WAMC
Lisent in to part three HERE on WAMC

Attention Farmers!

2011-01-14T20:18:00.005-05:00

ASSEMBLYWOMAN RUSSELL URGES
AREA FARMERS TO BE AWARE OF NEW GRANT FUNDING

Assemblywoman Addie Russell congratulated Governor Andrew Cuomo for making $3.2 million available in Agriculture Energy Efficiency program. These grants are designed to help farmers reduce energy usage. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is the administrating agency.

The Assemblywoman said, “Area farmers will potentially be able to save up 75% of the cost of electricity and gas efficiency investments. The cost of energy is an escalating operating cost on farms and saving money in this area goes right to their bottom line. Equipment such as hot water reclaimers, variable speed vacuum pumps as well as other equipment which will increase energy efficiency on the farm while decreasing energy cost may be funded with this grant opportunity. Energy audits will be performed to show farmers where their biggest savings can be attained.

The Assemblywoman is contacting NYSERDA to schedule an outreach seminar on this grant opportunity. Anyone interested in attending the event may call her office @ 786-0284 or 386-2037.

Governor Cuomo Takes His Message to Watertown

2011-01-14T19:07:00.004-05:00

Today New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo traveled to Watertown to push his citizen army to take back Albany. The message was clear. Rain in spending, bring real ethics reform to our state capital and most of all turn this ship before it's too late.

The crowd at Jefferson Community College was something to see. People from all political divide came together to listen to Governor Cuomo's plan for this great state. Although there were some light moments, the speech was very specific on what will be done to take this state back from the special interests.

The North Country Democrat was taken back by the volunteers that made this day such a success. Many from the Jefferson County Democratic Committee were on hand to volunteer and WOW what a great job they did. Some of the people volunteering today were: Patti Shaughnessy, Michelle Coullier, Jonathan Cole, Mike Flynn, Erica Marks Leonard,Sandra and Ron Cole and Chairman Sean Hennessey.

With the vision, passion and plan presented today we can truly see this great state becoming the Empire state once again.

Below you'll find the release from today's event.

ALBANY, NY (01/14/2011)(readMedia)-- Declaring New York State at a crucial crossroads, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today traveled to Watertown to present the action plan outlined in his recent State of the State Address. Governor Cuomo wants to fundamentally transform New York State's government and economy by getting the state's fiscal house in order, radically redesigning our governmental structures and operations, and restoring integrity and performance to state government. Governor Cuomo noted that the decisions we make now will impact our state for decades to come.

"To fix Albany, it is essential that we work together and make sure that communities in the North Country, like Watertown, are part of the process," Governor Cuomo said. "The challenges that exist in Watertown ripple across the state and this is where we must start to identify solutions and put our state on the right track."

Governor Cuomo spoke to hundreds of New Yorkers at the Jefferson County Community College. The Governor said he would open up government to the public and work in partnership with all stakeholders to address the serious fiscal challenges facing New York State and its local governments.

In that spirit, the Governor unveiled a new Web site, www.NYcitizenscampaign.com, where the public is invited to communicate ideas, tips, and concerns directly with their government.

In light of the enormous fiscal challenges facing New York, Governor Cuomo's agenda relies on rethinking core government operations and economic development strategies to provide better results and to maximize resources.

Governor Cuomo outlined the following initiatives as part of his message:

• Emergency Fiscal Plan: Governor Cuomo outlined an Emergency Financial Plan that closes the $10 billion deficit in the 2011-12 budget without raising taxes or borrowing. The plan called for imposing a one-year salary freeze on the vast majority of public employees whose contracts are up for renegotiation as of April 1; holding the line on taxes; and imposing a state spending cap limiting spending growth to the rate of inflation.

• Rightsizing Government: Saying that redesigning New York State government is essential to rebuilding the state's economy, Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order creating the Spending and Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission to make state government more accountable and efficient by reducing the number of agencies, authorities, and commissions by 20 percent. The SAGE Commission is directed to submit to the Governor a rightsizing plan to reduce the number of agencies by May 1st of this year. Under additional legislation proposed by the Governor, the Governor would then submit the rightsizing plan to the Legislature for action with the plan going in to effect, unless the Legislature acted within 30 days to reject it. Director of Agency Redesign and Efficiency Paul Francis will serve as Co-Chair with the Governor appointing one or more additional Co-Chairs.

• Redesigning the Medicaid program: Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order aimed at redesigning New York State's costly Medicaid program. The order calls for the creation of a new Medicaid Redesign Team to find ways to save money within the Medicaid program for the Governor's upcoming state budget proposal for the 2011-12 Fiscal Year. Based on the nationally recognized model used in Wisconsin that involved bringing stakeholders together to find efficiencies and cost savings within the Medicaid program, the team includes leaders from the healthcare industry, the Governor's office, the legislative bodies, and other business, labor, and consumer advocates. Jason Helgerson, whom the Governor appointed to serve as New York State Medicaid Director and created the Wisconsin model, will be the Team's Executive Director.

Under the Governor's order, the Team's work is underway and must submit its first report with findings and recommendations to the Governor by March 1 for consideration in the budget process.

• Providing Mandate Relief: Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order creating the "Mandate Relief Redesign Team" ("Team") to review unfunded and underfunded mandates imposed by the New York State government on school districts, local governments, and other local taxing districts. The Team, chaired by Senior Advisor to the Governor Larry Schwartz, includes representatives from private industry, education, labor, and government and look for ways to reduce the costs of mandated programs, identify mandates that are ineffective and outdated, and determine how school districts and local governments can have greater ability to control expenses. The Team's work is underway and it will submit a first set of recommendations to the Governor by March 1, 2011 for consideration in the Fiscal Year 2011-12 budget process. The Team will continue its review until the end of Fiscal Year 2011-12.

• Redesigning Local Governments: Governor Cuomo is creating a program to reward local governments that save money by rightsizing. The Citizen Re-Organization Empowerment Grants will provide up to $100,000 to cover all or part of the costs of merger and dissolutions studies.

• Redesigning Education: Noting that New York is first in spending but 34th in results, Governor Cuomo proposed restructuring a portion of our education aid to create incentives that reward school districts for improving student performance and implementing management efficiency policies.

• Transforming the ethical environment in Government: Governor Cuomo's "Clean Up Albany" agenda would institute campaign finance reforms including a system of public financing for elections, limits on contribution levels, creating an independent redistricting commission, creating independent monitoring and enforcement of ethics laws, and requiring full disclosure of outside income and clients. Governor Cuomo also proposed to outlaw "pay to play" to limit the impact of special interests, strip pensions for public officials convicted of a felony for abusing the public trust, and improve government performance and transparency through technology.

Transforming New York's Economy:

Governor Cuomo said, "Business built New York, and we are declaring that New York is once again open for business."

Governor Cuomo said that restoring the state's historically thriving private sector will require holding the line on taxes and working to lower taxes in the future. His economic development agenda seeks to help government to be a job facilitator through the following initiatives:

• Creating regional Economic Development Councils: Noting that those working at the local level know their area economies best, he will create regional economic development councils to work with state agencies to allocate resources. To ensure that state agencies and the councils are working to create jobs, Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy will lead these councils, whose members will be drawn from the private sector, local governments, state agencies, and academic institutions.

• Fixing the recently-enacted Excelsior Tax Credit Program: Governor Cuomo proposed to revise the recently enacted Excelsior Tax Credit Program to produce better results for New Yorkers. His proposals would restructure the value and length of the tax credit to provide greater incentives for job creation; restructure incentives for improving properties; pay credits as job-creation milestones are met rather than at the end of the proposal; expand research and development tax credits; and streamline the application and approval process.

• Create a permanent Power for Jobs Program: To help keep manufacturers in New York State, Governor Cuomo introduced a permanent Power for Jobs program to provide predictability and stability of supply with long-term contracts, and incorporate efficiency incentives to reward improvements.

• Enacting Property Tax Relief: Governor Cuomo's property tax cap will set the cap at the rate of inflation or two percent, whichever is less; prohibit any property tax levy above the cap unless endorsed by both by the local governing board and a 60 percent majority of the people during an election; and provide only limited exceptions such as extraordinary legal or capital expenditures.

Making New York the Progressive Capital of the Nation

Governor Cuomo seeks to reclaim New York's status as the progressive leader in the nation in the following ways:

• Better protecting consumers and investors: A newly-formed Department of Financial Regulation will merge the Insurance Department, Banking Department, and the Consumer Protection Board to better regulate modern financial services organizations. A primary mission will be to stand up for consumers, protect them from predatory lending and unlawful foreclosure practices, and provide access to good, honest, and capable financial services at competitive rates.

• A cleaner, greener environment: Governor Cuomo will create the "NY Cleaner, Greener Communities Program" to provide competitive grants that will encourage communities to develop regional sustainable growth strategies in housing, transportation, emissions control, and energy efficiency. The program will emphasize revitalizing urban areas through smart growth, creating green jobs, building green infrastructure including roof and rain gardens, and strengthening environmental justice and protection.

• Expanding Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) support: Of the 1.9 million business entities operating in New York State, more than 50 percent are owned by women or minorities. The vast majority of these companies are small businesses and a critical driver of the New York State economy. To ensure that MWBEs have the opportunity to earn their fair share of the state's business, Governor Cuomo directed state agencies to double the current MWBE participation goal from 10 to 20 percent, ease bonding restrictions that they will face, and expand the Owner-Controlled Insurance Program model to improve opportunities for small businesses.

• Juvenile Justice Reorganization: With a goal of reducing wasteful spending, Governor Cuomo will undertake an immediate reorganization of the state's youth detention facilities with the goal of consolidation, while providing current staff the priority for relocation to other facilities, retraining, and/or reemployment opportunities. To avoid keeping facilities open that have few or no children, he proposed a repeal of the requirement mandating a 12-month notice requirement to close facilities.

• Expanding fresh food into urban centers: To help revitalize urban areas and develop markets for New York farmers, Governor Cuomo will seek ways to expand the presence of locally-grown food markets in urban areas. This will include working to revitalize the Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market in the Bronx, which supplies a large portion of the produce for New York City's and the region's food consumption, and creating a "Share NY Food" Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that develops partnerships with farmers and residents to expand access and resources and make fresh food available to consumers in urban areas.

• Providing for marriage equality for all New Yorkers: To end discrimination against same-sex couples who wish to get married, Governor Cuomo called for the passage of legislation legalizing marriage for same-sex couples, as has been done in many states and other countries.

• Protect Reproductive Rights: To protect a woman's right to choose options in the face of an unplanned or problematic pregnancy, Governor Cuomo will fight for passage of reproductive rights legislation to protect the fundamental right of reproductive freedom and a woman's right to make private health care decisions.

President Obama speaks at the memorial for the victims of the Arizona shooting

2011-01-13T07:35:00.001-05:00

Live at 5 with Glenn Curry and Chairman Hennessey

2011-01-07T06:51:00.003-05:00

There was a fair amount of cross over on the Live at 5 show yesterday. Chairman Hennessey was in the studio promoting his 4th Season of his radio show "Echoes of Ireland" (Every Sunday at 1pm on 1240 WATN) but with the good news about former Senator Darrel Aubertine it was hard to stay on track in relation to the upcoming season. You can listen into the show by clicking HERE

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES ADMINISTRATION NOMINATION

2011-01-06T23:12:00.001-05:00

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today
announced the following nominations
to senior positions within
the state government

Mr. Aubertine recently served as State Senator of the 48th Senate District in Central and Northern New York, which is comprised of Oswego, Jefferson and part of St. Lawrence counties. He served as chair of both the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Rural Resources Commission, and as the ranking majority member and vice chair of the Energy & Telecommunications Committee. Before joining the Senate in 2008, Mr. Aubertine represented the 118th Assembly district in the New York State Assembly for five years, where he served as the chair of the Commission on State-Local Relations. From 1996-2001, he was a member of the Jefferson County Legislature and was elected to chair in 1998. Mr. Aubertine's career in government began in 1994, when he served as a member of the Cape Vincent Town Council.

Since 1971, Mr. Aubertine has owned and operated the sixth-generation heritage Triple-A Farm in Cape Vincent, for which he purchased a plot of land while still in high school. Mr. Aubertine has been a member of numerous cooperatives and organizations, including the Cape Vincent Milk Producers, Allied and Eastern, Agway, St. Lawrence County Farm Bureau, the New York State Farm Bureau, and the Dairy Herd Improvement Association.

"Darrel's experience and expertise in agriculture is unparalleled," Governor Cuomo said. "He fought for years on behalf of farmers in the state legislature and delivered real results. New York's agricultural community will thrive with Darrel at the helm of this critical department, and I thank him for his service."

Dean Norton, President of the New York Farm Bureau, said, "We are pleased that Governor Cuomo has selected an individual who has long-standing connections to agriculture and our farm families. Darrel Aubertine has strong roots in the agricultural community and has proven to be a staunch ally through the years. New York Farm Bureau's almost 30,000 members look forward to working with Governor Cuomo and Mr. Aubertine to serve and strengthen agriculture."

Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, said, "The North Country has enjoyed Darrel Aubertine's leadership for years on agriculture issues, and now the entire state will benefit from his knowledge and vision. Not only is he an experienced farmer, but he has a very strong command of the issues confronting New York's producers and the opportunities for bolstering agriculture as a key part of a stronger state economy. On top of that, his years in local government and then the State Legislature will help him to effectively turn his knowledge and vision into effective new policies and initiatives. Governor Cuomo has made an excellent choice for agriculture and economic development across our state."

David J. Skorton, President of Cornell University, said, "We congratulate the governor and Mr. Aubertine on this nomination. As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, he has already demonstrated his commitment to the success of Upstate's largest industry. Under Darrel's leadership we look forward to continuing Cornell's partnership to support and enhance the food and agriculture industry in New York State."

Owens Urges Passage of Counternarcotics Strategy Bill

2011-01-06T22:28:00.001-05:00

If you or someone you know is a member of the Armed Forces whose service was involuntarily extended because of a stop-loss order, I would like to make sure you read this article from the Watertown Daily Times, reporting that the deadline has once again been extended.

Friday, March 4th, is the final day for veterans who have experienced this stop-loss order to apply for their due pay. The program compensates eligible veterans with $500 for each month served under stop-loss orders. Veterans who qualify for this program can apply online at www.defense.gov/stoploss.

If you would like to receive regular updates from my office, please sign up for my e-newsletter.

As your representative in Washington, I believe it is critical to provide the opportunities and compensation promised to American soldiers and their families when they enlisted. Please help me deliver this reminder to as many eligible veterans as possible and forward this email to anyone you believe would be interested.

Again, if you would like to sign up for regular updates from my office, you can do so by clicking here.

Thank you for reading. If you have further concerns about this or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me. My door is always open.

Sincerely,
Bill

This is a Great Day for the North Country

2011-01-06T22:14:00.003-05:00

Senator Darrel Aubertine

Named

Commissioner of Agriculture

of New York State

“I’m certainly pleased to have this opportunity to continue serving and be a part of Governor Cuomo’s administration," said Darrel J. Aubertine. "I look forward to working with our new governor, continuing my relationships with members of the agricultural community and getting to work again on behalf of our state’s number one industry.”