Senator Seward Pledges Support to Protect Youth From Tobacco Marketing

Advancing Tobacco Free Communities staff Deyanira Cisneros and Linda Wegner met with New York State Senator James Seward in Schoharie recently to discuss tobacco use issues and tobacco-free initiatives.



Despite comprehensive smoke-free policies, high federal and state taxes and powerful media campaigns, tobacco remains the primary cause of preventable death in New York State, claiming between 26,000 and 28,200 lives annually. Senator Seward serves on the New York State Senate Health Committee. He was dismayed to learn that the more tobacco marketing kids see, the more likely they are to smoke. He pledged his support of protecting youth from tobacco marketing in stores.

Seward Congratulates New York's Top Seniors

ALBANY, 05/11/15 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) recently congratulated New York State’s top senior citizens as part of the New York State Office for the Aging 2015 Senior Citizens Day Celebration in Albany.

From left, Senator James L. Seward with
Schoharie County citizen honoree Ruth Bradt.  

“Our senior citizens are vital community members who offer a great perspective on so many topics,” said Senator Seward.   “The extremely active seniors honored today fulfill significant roles – serving on local municipal boards, teaching our young people about community engagement, and contributing positively to our future.” 

Along with honoring the local honorees the senate also adopted a resolution (J.1809) proclaiming May 5, 2015 as Senior Citizens Awareness Day in the State of New York.  The resolution reads in part:

WHEREAS, The more than three million residents of New York State  60 years of age and older bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the increasingly  active  roles  they  play  in  today's society; their past contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and valuable asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and

WHEREAS, These senior citizens have contributed to the State by building and helping preserve the customs, traditions and ideals of the many ethnic groups that make up the mosaic of New York State.

“I also have to give credit to the local county office for the aging staff members that work so hard on a daily basis providing crucial services to area senior citizens and advocating for their needs,” Seward added.

Both Sheila Serbay (Otsego County, Oneonta) and Ruth Bradt (Schoharie County, Howes Cavern) attended the recognition event in Albany.  The complete list of honorees from Senator Seward’s district includes:

Cortland County                     Michael McGuire, Cortland;

Delaware County                    Tom Hynes, Roxbury;

Otsego County                        Norma Ralph, Worcester;

Otsego County                        Sheila Serbay, Oneonta;

Schoharie County                   Ruth Bradt, Howes Cavern;

Tompkins County                   Ted Sobel, Brooktondale;

“These honorees exemplify the great commitment, experience, and care that so many other senior citizens bring to their communities.  We would be lost without their expertise and I am truly impressed with their great accomplishments,” Seward concluded.

Seward Pays Tribute to Local "Woman of Distinction"

ALBANY, 05/05/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today honored Patricia Kennedy of Oneonta as the 2015  Senate “Woman of Distinction” from the 51st senate district at the 18th annual senate Women of Distinction ceremony at the Capitol.

“Over the years, I have been fortunate to highlight a number of inspirational, trailblazing leaders through the senate’s Women of Distinction program, and this year is no different,” said Senator Seward.  “Patricia Kennedy has been a driving force in the care of developmentally disabled individuals and her compassion for their well-being and innovative ideas have changed lives for the better.” 

Senator James L. Seward with 2015 New York State Senate
Women of Distinction honoree Patricia Kennedy of Oneonta.

Patricia Kennedy serves as chief executive officer at Springbrook, a not-for-profit, state-licensed organization serving over 850 people with developmental disabilities from across New York State and beyond.   The Otsego County based facility employs more than 1,200 individuals and is a recognized leader in its field.

2015 Senate Woman of Distinction honoree Patricia Kennedy said, “I am grateful for this award and to all the people, past and present, who support me and Springbrook, including my family, friends, and coworkers.”

Kennedy has received many accolades for her work including being named the 2005 New York State Developmental Disabilities Council Administrator of the Year.  Under Kennedy’s leadership, Springbrook has expanded services greatly to include residential, educational, therapeutic, and community support options that span a person’s lifetime.

“Patricia Kennedy’s contributions are wide ranging and touch many lives.  The personal, one-on-one relationship she has with each and every individual at Springbrook can simply not be quantified, and because of her compassion, families know their loved ones are in good hands.  Further, she is a driving force in our regional economy – once again making a positive difference in the lives of so many.  Patricia embodies the meaning of a true ‘Woman of Distinction’ for all of her inspiring and continuing contributions,” added Seward.

Along with honoring the 2015 Women of Distinction the senate also adopted a special resolution (J.1927) congratulating the honorees.

The senate's "Woman of Distinction" program was created in 1998 to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers.

 Previous winners in the annual event have included leading women from the worlds of business, academics and civic life, as well as those who have performed heroic or selfless acts, made significant discoveries or provided examples of personal excellence against difficult odds.

Seward: Turn on Natural Gas in Cobleskill

ONEONTA, 04/27/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) is urging the New York State Department of Public Service to act quickly on a request from New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) to extend natural gas service within the Village of Cobleskill.

“Affordable energy can be a true game-changer when it comes to attracting new businesses and jobs to our region,” said Senator Seward.  “By extending a natural gas line within downtown Cobleskill, current employers and new businesses, along with residential customers, will all benefit.”

Due to a quirk in NYSEG’s franchise, a portion of the village’s center, including the theater and the developing Bull’s Head Inn, is without access to natural gas.  NYSEG is seeking to extend its line to the un-served village center.

In a letter to NYS Department of Public Service Secretary Kathleen Burgess, Senator Seward also expressed the importance of a quick approval, “Further, I am asking that the case be placed on an expedited timetable so that construction of facilities as contemplated in the application can be coordinated with a pending state Department of Transportation street project within the village and the subject area.  Timely approval would avoid the unnecessary and costly reconstruction of newly installed road improvements planned for the 2015 DOT project.  Therefore, time is of the essence.”

The NYSEG extension would connect to an existing gas main.  If approval is received by July or early August, NYSEG will be able to work in conjunction with a planned road widening project. 

According to NYSEG, there are approximately 25 potential customers along the proposed gas main extension route.  Company officials expect to connect 12 residential and 3 commercial customers during the first year.

“Downtown Cobleskill has so much to offer, great shops and restaurants, a diverse population, and a welcoming atmosphere.  Extending natural gas to Main Street and Park Place will further enhance the marketability of the area and pay dividends for years to come.” Seward concluded.

Seward Greets Future Leaders of Schoharie County at Capitol

ALBANY, 03/24/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) and Assemblyman Pete Lopez (R/C/I-Schoharie) today welcomed students with the Schoharie County 4-H legislative intern program to Albany.

“Touring the state Capitol and meeting with legislators provides students with a real working knowledge of how state government operates,” said Senator Seward.  “As a past member of 4-H, I am proud to see the program’s traditions continuing with today’s students through this unique program.”

Senator Seward (left) met with students from the Schoharie County
4-H legislative intern program on the “Million Dollar” Staircase.

High school seniors from Cobleskill-Richmondville, Gilboa-Conesville, Middleburgh, Schoharie, and Sharon Springs toured the state Capitol learning about state history and observing the inner workings of state government.

Students in the legislative intern program meet monthly to learn about county and state government through hands-on experiences like the Albany tour.  Several alumni of the program have gone on to successful careers in the public sector.

“Public service is vital to the future growth and success of our local communities.  I look forward to seeing these students go on to serve in the public arena as elected officials, volunteers, or in other public posts,” Seward concluded.

Seward Welcomes Schoharie County FFA Members to Capitol

ALBANY, 03/02/15 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I–Oneonta) on Monday met at his Capitol office with students from Schoharie County chapters of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). 

Front row from left to right - A.J. Fletcher, Theresa Cater, Kyle Cornwell, Mathilda Scott, Kathryn Cipperly, Emma Rose Wegner, Senator Seward.  Back row – Linda Wegner, Debbie Fletcher.

“Agriculture is our state’s number one industry and in order to preserve and advance this time-honored tradition, we need programs like the FFA,” said Senator Seward.  “The students not only learn about traditional farming, but engineering, science, and business as well.  Their personal stories demonstrate the need for ongoing state support that will bolster this valuable education program.”

The students detailed how they started in farming and their future interest in agriculture.  They also discussed the need for agricultural education in public schools.

Senator Seward is a long-standing member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and last year helped pass several portions of the senate’s “Young Farmers NY” initiative.  The program is intended to encourage young farmers to take over from the previous generation of farmers by easing some of the hurdles family farms in New York State are facing.

Seward Meets With Schoharie County Students

ALBANY, 02/26/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) met this week with high school students from Reality Check – Schoharie County.

“Reality Check is an effective program that educates both on the dangers of smoking to individuals and the high health cost incurred by all,” said Seward.  “It is especially encouraging to meet with young people who are engaged and working toward a cause they feel passionate about.”

Senator Seward welcomes Reality Check students to Albany.  From left, front row – Ashley Fancher, Sheridan Smith, Madi Yung, Senator Seward.  Middle row- Emily Skowfoe, Taylor Marshall, Kathleen Hannamann, Ethan Keidong.  Back row – Gabby DeRocher, Emily Tuck-Fydenkevez, Middleburgh Reality Check Program Coordinator C.J. Smith.

The students discussed recent field studies they have conducted to gauge the use of tobacco advertising at retail locations.  They also detailed the health and financial benefits of smoking cessation and tobacco control programs conducted by the New York State Department of Health.

New York State Department of Health statistics show:

• Among high school students, smoking prevalence has dropped significantly between 2000 and 2014 from 27.1 percent to 7.3 percent, a 73.1 percent decrease;
• Among middle school students, smoking prevalence has dropped significantly between 2000 and 2014 from 10.2 percent to 1.2 percent, an 88.2 percent decrease;
• Every year, tobacco-related health care costs New Yorkers $10.4 billion, of which Medicaid covers $3.3 billion;
• Lost productivity from smoking costs New York State more than $6 billion annually.

Reality Check is an anti-smoking movement sponsored by the New York State Department of Health which alerts teens to tobacco company marketing strategies and promotes teens as decision makers in their own lives, as well as role models in their communities.

Governor Signs Bill Memorializing Highway After Fallen Soldier

A portion of New York State Highway 44/55 in Ulster County will be renamed in honor of United States Army Sergeant Shawn Michael Farrell II under legislation signed into law Thursday.  The legislation (S.7824) was sponsored by Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) and pays tribute to the young soldier killed on April 28th in Afghanistan.

“Every man and woman who dons a United States military uniform sacrifices for our nation and our way of life,” said Senator Seward.  “Sergeant Shawn Michael Farrell II made the ultimate sacrifice and we owe it to him and his family to keep his memory alive.  I appreciate Governor Cuomo joining in swiftly signing this legislation to honor Sergeant Farrell’s bravery, courage, and unwavering allegiance to his country and his fellow soldiers.” 

Sgt. Shawn M. Farrell II, 24, of Accord, New York, died April 28, in Nejrab District, Kapisa province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire.  He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.

Senator Seward’s bill designates the portion of New York State Route 44/55 from the intersection of New York State Route 209 in Wawarsing to the intersection of New York State Route 299 in Gardiner as the “Sergeant Shawn Farrell II Memorial Highway”.

“It is especially fitting that this bill is signed into law as we mark our nation’s Independence Day.  With so many Americans traveling along memorial highways to visit parks and other monuments,  I hope everyone takes note of the names attached to our historic landmarks and says thank you for all our servicemen and women have done to protect our freedoms and way of life,” Seward concluded.

Senator Seward posthumously awarded Sergeant Farrell with the state senate’s Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate, in recognition of his sacrifice and service to his country.  Senator Seward also sponsored a special senate resolution (J.4858) in tribute to Sergeant Farrell.

Seward Delivers $2 Million for SUNY Cobleskill Energy Savings Project

ONEONTA, 06/27/14 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced that $2 million in capital funding he secured will be used for SUNY Cobleskill’s energy savings project. 

“SUNY Cobleskill offers innovative student programs on a campus that is continually evolving to meet changing needs,” said Senator Seward.  “This funding will help the school go even further by backing new green energy improvements that will lead to a more efficient, environmentally friendly campus – saving money and our natural resources.”

More than 26-percent of the support New York State currently provides to SUNY Cobleskill annually is consumed in utility costs.  Both Executive Order 88 and Build Smart NY require the campus to reduce energy consumption and, create an energy master plan and operate more efficiently.

“Renewable energy, clean technology, and green jobs are our future.  However, there are costs to start down the path and it is important that the State of New York help institutions like SUNY Cobleskill make this transition,” Seward added.   

The capital funding obtained by Senator Seward, included in a 2014 senate resolution, will help the college meet the ‘green goals’ by supporting SUNY Cobleskill’s Energy Savings Project which will include:

• Campus Wide Metering – Metering will quickly alert campus personnel to systemic problems that drive up utility costs by providing diagnostic ability to find where energy is being wasted. ($525,000);

• Energy Master Plan – The plan will include comprehensive energy audits of campus facilities the will be used to establish baseline energy use, propose, measures for decreasing energy use, and serve as the basis to develop an energy master plan. ($125,000);

• Priority Energy Projects – To include alternative energy/natural gas solutions for existing buildings that operate with a mix of fuel oil and electricity, plus priority projects as indentified in the Energy Master Plan. ($1,340,000).

SUNY Cobleskill Acting President Dr. Debra H. Thatcher said, “SUNY Cobleskill is grateful to Senator Seward for his advocacy on behalf of the campus. These energy projects will allow SUNY Cobleskill to install cutting edge technologies and be better stewards of state funds by shifting expenditures from utility costs to academics and student support.”

“New York is a leader when it comes to green projects which is good news for our future sustainability.  SUNY Cobleskill’s core academic programs are built on environmental excellence and this state funding will help advance the principles that are already part of the college’s foundation,”  Seward concluded.

Lawmakers Offer Bills Seeking "Peace Officer" Status for Schoharie Tac-Force Members

ALBANY, 06/16/14 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) announced earlier this week senate approval of a bill he sponsors granting peace officer status to officers and members of the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Tactical and Rescue Force.  Senator Seward’s bill (S.7720) was the result of a dialogue  between the Schoharie County Sheriff, the Tac-Force, and Schoharie County’s legislative team.

“The Schoharie County Tac-Force is a critical component of the sheriff’s department, filling voids and providing support in a host of situations,” said Senator Seward.  “The men and women who make up this specialized unit are highly trained and help meet emergency preparedness needs.”

Currently, Schoharie County Tac-Force members are only officially defined as “peace officers” when preparing for or responding to an emergency situation.  Senator Seward’s legislation will provide them with peace officer status while working at public festivities, parades, fairs, and other similar events, “pursuant to their special duties.”

“The Schoharie County Sheriff’s Department relies on the Tac-Force to provide essential services, and to keep taxpayer costs in check.  Elevating Tac-Force members to full peace officer status is an appropriate action and fits with the duties and responsibilities these men and women already perform on a regular basis,”  Senator Seward added.

The Schoharie County Sheriff’s Tactical and Rescue Force (Tac-Force) is a volunteer component of the sheriff’s department which provides security during public events, crowd control, search and rescue, traffic control, and assistance to road patrol deputies when needed.

Senator Seward has been a consistent supporter of the Schoharie County Tac-Force, securing a $25,000 state grant for the unit in 2013 to help purchase communications equipment, bullet proof vests, and uniforms. 

Companion legislation (A.9842A) sponsored by Assemblyman Pete Lopez has been introduced in the state assembly.

Seward Announces Grant Funds for Local Libraries

ONEONTA, 06/13/14 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) announced last week that community libraries throughout the 51st senatorial district have been awarded a total of over $685,000 in public library construction grant funds. 

The Community Library in Cobleskill received $40,462 in funding to replace roofing on the western half of the building and to add a ramp and door for improved accessibility. It was the only public library in Schoharie County to receive funds this fiscal year. 

"Our libraries are community hubs, hosting countless activities that enrich lives young and old," Seward said.“Libraries are also some of the most historic landmarks we have and they are often in need of costly technological and accessibility upgrades that must be accomplished while still maintaining their traditional character.”

Public library construction grants help local libraries and library systems to build new libraries, create additions, update electrical wiring to accommodate computer technology, meet standards of energy efficiency, renovate facilities to provide full accessibility to library users with disabilities, and provide meeting rooms to accommodate community needs.  New furniture, shelving, and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space.

“Electronic lending has skyrocketed and many people utilize the Internet at their local library to job search or catch up on news from around the globe.  It is vital that libraries are able to keep up with changing needs,” Seward added.

New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading.  More than 48 percent of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30 percent are more than three decades old.

Senator Seward is a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries and a consistent advocate for libraries.  He has routinely received high marks from the New Yorkers for Better Libraries for his support of libraries.

“Assisting libraries with state funds takes the burden off local taxpayers, while preserving and improving these valuable resources for generations to come,” Seward concluded.

The grants are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2013 state budget.

Seward Leads Opposition to Microstamping in State Senate Codes Committee

ALBANY, 06/13/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) this week was joined by fellow senators in voicing strong opposition to gun control legislation (S.68A/A.3244A) requiring the microstamping of ammunition.

“Microstamping is a flawed technology, easily defeated by criminals, that would only cost law abiding citizens while forcing hefty new expenses on firearms manufacturers like Remington Arms,”said Senator Seward.  “This bill came to the senate floor for a vote in 2010 when New York City Democrats controlled the agenda and I rallied opposition to defeat it.  This year, the gun control bill will not see the light of day.

“Those who support this bill seem to forget – criminals don’t follow the law.  Microstamping would not help police track down lawbreakers who obtain guns illegally, out of state, or file or switch a weapon’s firing pin, all common practices among criminals,” Seward added. 

A majority of the members on the New York State Senate Codes Committee, where the bill has been referred, have added their voices to Senator Seward’s opposition, effectively blocking the proposed legislation.

The measure, if enacted, would effectively end the manufacture of firearms in New York and sales in New York as gun makers would not produce “New York only” weapons for citizens or the police.

Senate Codes Committee Chairman Senator Michael Nozzolio and committee members Senators Phil Boyle, John DeFrancisco, John Flanagan, Patrick Gallivan, Joe Griffo, Andrew Lanza, and Tom O’Mara have all publicly declared their objections to the measure. They were also joined by Senators Cathy Young, Greg Ball, Tom Libous, James Seward, John Bonacic, Patty Ritchie, Kathy Marchione, Bill Larkin, Betty Little, Joe Robach, George Maziarz, Hugh Farley and Mike Ranzenhofer.

After recent anti Second Amendment moves in the state assembly, state senate Democrats are now pushing efforts to move the microstamping bill sponsored by Senator Peralta.

“Here they go again, in an extreme attempt to turn law abiding citizens into criminals, rather than tackling the real criminals. We must unite, in both the senate and throughout the state, to stop this extreme and costly effort. There is not a shred of credible evidence that proves the technology actually works. We will work together to protect the Second Amendment,” they said in a joint statement.

County GOP Backs Lopez, Seward

The Schoharie County Republican Committee voted unanimously Wednesday night to nominate Assemblyman Peter Lopez and State Senator James Seward for re-election in their respective campaigns. There was no opposition and the nominations were confirmed by voice vote. 

Town of Middleburgh Councilwoman Sue Makely nominated Mr. Lopez, while former Town of Cobleskill Councilman Ryan McAllister nominated Mr. Seward. Both nominations were quickly seconded and the Secretary was instructed to close the polls and make one vote for the nominees. 

Schoharie County Vice-Chairman Chris Tague oversaw the proceedings in Chairman Lewis Wilson's place. Both Mr. Lopez and Mr. Seward stressed the importance of this fall's statewide elections, while Mr. Tague reminded committee members that there will be a handful of local elections as well. 

Seward Congratulates New York's Top Seniors

ALBANY, 05/12/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) recently congratulated New York State’s top senior citizens as part of the New York State Office for the Aging 2014 Senior Citizens Day Celebration in Albany.

“Our senior citizens are vital, instrumental members of our communities,” said Senator Seward.   “The extremely active seniors honored today fulfill significant roles – volunteering with local ambulance companies, managing area food pantries, and holding elected office.” 

Along with honoring the local honorees the senate also adopted a resolution (J.4811) proclaiming May 6, 2014 as Senior Citizens Awareness Day in the State of New York.  The resolution reads in part:

WHEREAS, The more than three million residents of New York State  60 years of age and older bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the increasingly  active  roles  they  play  in  today's society; their past contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and valuable asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and

WHEREAS, These senior citizens have  contributed  to  the  State  by building  and helping preserve the customs, traditions and ideals of the many ethnic groups that make up the mosaic of New York State.

“I also have to give credit to the local county office for the aging staff members that work so hard on a daily basis providing crucial services to area senior citizens and advocating for their needs,” Seward added.

The senior citizens from Senator Seward’s district honored are:

Chenango County                   Gladys Benjamin, New Berlin

Cortland County                     Sister Kathleen Heffron, Cincinnatus

Delaware County                    Frank Bachler, Meredith

Otsego County                        Ken Dreis, Richfield Springs

Otsego County                        Ellen St. John, Cooperstown

Schoharie County                   Edwin Guntert, Middleburgh

Schoharie County                   Deanna Urrey, Schoharie

Tompkins County                   Robert Spaulding, Ithaca

Ulster County                         Donald DuBois, Saugerties

“Each of these senior citizens is special, but it gives me added pleasure to recognize Donald DuBois of Ulster County who was named the senior citizen of the year.  Donald’s longstanding commitment to helping others, his thoughtful teachings that foster new ideas, and his sustained efforts to bring out the best in others are well documented and warrant him being named New York State Senior Citizen of the Year,” Seward concluded.

Seward Pays Tribute to Fallen Ulster County Soldier

ACCORD, 05/08/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) Thursday presented the family of Sergeant Shawn Farrell II with the state senate’s Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate.

“The Liberty Medal is conferred on a select few, those who have distinguished themselves by meritorious action against hostile odds.  Sergeant Shawn Farrell II was that type of individual,” said Senator Seward.  “He served with courage, bravery and valor, and made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of his country.”

The Liberty Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate, recognizing those who were willing to sacrifice their lives, or did so, in defense of America and the cause of freedom and world peace.

“Shawn’s unwavering allegiance to his country and his fellow soldiers cannot be overstated.  A true American hero, he fully embodied the values and spirit of this prestigious decoration,” concluded Seward.

Sgt. Shawn M. Farrell II, 24, of Accord, New York, died April 28, in Nejrab District, Kapisa province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire.  He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.

Senator Seward also sponsored a special senate resolution (J.4858) honoring Sergeant Shawn Farrell II.  The complete resolution, and Senator Seward’s comments on the floor of the New York State Senate can be seen on-line here. 

Seward to Host Training For Lifesaving Heroin Overdose Medication

ONEONTA, 05/01/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) announced Wednesday that he will be hosting a free heroin/opioid overdose prevention training class on Wednesday, May 7th at the FoxCare Center in Oneonta.

“A key aspect in the short term battle against heroin and opioid abuse is preventing overdose deaths,” said Senator Seward.  “Training more individuals to administer the overdose reversal medicine Naxolone or Narcan will save lives, that’s why I am sponsoring this event and will be among those taking the class on May 7^th .”

Narcan is a prescription medicine which can be administered nasally and can revive someone who is overdosing.  Currently, in order to obtain this life-saving medication, you must complete a brief training class.

Senator Seward will be partnering with Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties, Inc., and Otsego County Addiction Recovery Services to conduct a free training class that meets New York State Department of Health requirements.  Participants will receive a certificate of completion and an emergency resuscitation kit that includes Narcan.  

Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties, Inc., Executive Director Jeanette Tolson said, “Offering public trainings about preventing overdose from opioids is a critical step in combating this complicated problem.  A community effort bringing together individuals in recovery and their families, friends and allies is essential in long term solution development.”

Otsego County Chemical Dependency Program Manager Justin Thalheimer said, “Narcan is already saving lives and it is a matter of time before it saves a life here if it has not already.  Senator Seward’s assistance in highlighting this emergency treatment is a significant step in educating the public.” 

Senator Seward is a member of the Joint Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction.  He recently hosted a roundtable discussion to solicit input from local experts on the rise in use of heroin and other opioids.  Similar forums are being held across the state, and the task force will use the findings to help develop legislation that will be advanced during this legislative session.

“A comprehensive approach is needed to combat the rise in heroin use, which has reached epidemic proportions.  Better education programs, improved insurance coverage for treatment, avenues to help recovering addicts find a job, and stronger criminal penalties for heroin dealers are all under consideration,” added Seward.

The rise in heroin use and the deadly effects of the drug are well documented.  A 2012 federal survey on drug use and health reported that the number of people who said they used heroin in the past 12 months rose from 373,000 people in 2007 to 669,000 people in 2012.

The heroin/opioid overdose prevention class will take place on Wednesday, May 7^th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Wellness Conference Room, FoxCare Center in Oneonta.  The training is free and open to the public.  Space is limited and pre-registration is strongly recommended online at www.senatorjimseward.com or by calling (607) 432-5524. 

MOSA Dissolution Signed Into Law

ALBANY, 04/11/14 – Dissolution of the Montgomery, Otsego, Schoharie Solid Waste Authority has New York State approval under legislation (S.6181/A.8406) signed into law today.  The legislation was sponsored by Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) and follows a home rule request from the three member counties and the authority.

“The service agreement governing the authority is set to expire at the end of the month, and all three member counties have done their due diligence to plan for their solid waste disposal needs in a post-MOSA world,” said Senator Seward.  “The state legislation follows a similar home rule request to establish the authority 25 years ago.”

Along with formally ending the solid waste authority, the new law also includes a plan for the distribution of the authority’s assets and liabilities among the three member counties.

The Montgomery Otsego Schoharie Solid Waste Authority (MOSA) was formed in 1988 to handle solid waste and recycling needs of the three member counties.  The service agreement governing the authority is scheduled to expire on April 30, 2014.

As the Schoharie News reported last month, the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors have already approved Casella Resource Solutions to operate the county's waste transfer station in Cobleskill to provide continued service for local residents. The details of that contract were not revealed at the time. 

Seward Propels Budget Funding to Reopen Worcester I-88 Rest Stop

ALBANY, 03/30/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today announced that the agreed upon 2014-15 state budget includes, at his insistence, funding to reopen the NYSDOT rest area along I-88 eastbound between exits 18 and 19 in Worcester.

“I denounced the NYSDOT decision to close this rest area four years ago, and have been working ever since to reverse this affront to public safety,” said Senator Seward.  “Finally, we will be able to tear down the barricades and reopen this service facility, critical to the motoring public.”

In 2010, the New York State Department of Transportation closed six rest areas on interstate highways in what was touted as a temporary measure.  To date, none have reopened.

“When the closures were first announced, I voiced my concern, particularly for the safety of truck drivers who make their living and support their families traveling our highways.  Since that time a host of accidents involving tractor trailers, including one with a fatality, have occurred near the Worcester rest stop.  No doubt some of these crashes could have been avoided if a safe haven was open,”Seward added.

Senator Seward also advocated for budget funds to reopen the I-88 Wells Bridge rest stop (westbound between exits 11 and 12) which was also closed in 2010.

“While the Wells Bridge rest stop was not specifically funded in this state budget agreement, I will continue to advocate for its reopening as well.  In this day and age, when so much attention is focused on ‘texting zones’ and similar measures, we need to enhance highway safety not reduce it,” Seward added.

NYSDOT personnel have  already started to coordinate plans to refurbish and prepare the Worcester rest area for public use.  A formal opening date will be announced shortly.