New York State Assembly

Over the last week, I was profoundly moved by the actions of heroism from first responders in our country as they assisted fellow Americans facing extreme adversity and tragedy. In every devastating scene from Boston and Texas, first responders are in the midst of chaos saving lives in their communities.

As the son of a retired firefighter, I know how important the fire service is to our community and communities across the Finger Lakes area. Volunteer recruitment in New York State is on the decline, which puts our families at greater risk. In order to reverse this trend, we need brave individuals to take this opportunity to learn about what it takes to volunteer.

RECRUITNY - A CALL TO SERVICE

The good news is that hundreds of volunteer fire departments across New York, including several in the Finger Lakes area, are taking steps to encourage members of their communities to answer the call of volunteer service. On Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 I strongly urge each and every one of you to visit your local volunteer fire department and participate in the Firemen's Association of the State of New York's (FASNY) RecruitNY initiative, a program designed to encourage citizens to visit, support and join their local volunteer fire departments.

FASNY's RecruitNY event will highlight the duties and rewards that come with being a volunteer firefighter and raise public awareness about the need for volunteers. At the events, volunteer fire department members will discuss what it takes to be a volunteer, answer questions and let visitors know how to get involved in fire fighting.

Are you interested in joining the ranks of these citizen heroes? Learn more about why your fellow New Yorkers participate in the volunteer fire service by watching the exciting and inspirational FASNY Video titled 'Fire in Me:' http://youtu.be/nw3jmh2Llvk and find out more about volunteering at http://www.fireinyou.org/.

OPEN HOUSES APRIL 27 AND APRIL 28

You can take the first step toward answering the call to serve as a volunteer firefighter by attending a RecruitNY event. In Ontario County, the East Bloomfield - Holcomb Fire Department, Farmington Fire Department, Oaks Corners Fire Department and Port Gibson Fire Department are participating. Their doors will be open on April 27 and they are eager to speak with you about volunteer firefighter opportunities in your community.

• The East Bloomfield - Holcomb Fire Department is located at 105 E. Main Street, Bloomfield. The telephone number is (585) 657-7422 and you can find them on the web at http://www.eastbloomfieldfiredept.org/.

• The Farmington Fire Department is located at 1225 Hook Road, Farmington. The telephone number is 585-924-3631 and you can find them on the web at http://www.farmingtonfd.org/.

• The Oaks Corners Fire Department is located at 607 Cross Road, Phelps. The phone number is 315-789-8876 and you can find them on the web.

• The Port Gibson Fire Department is located at 2939 Greig Street, Port Gibson. The phone number is 315-331-1028 and you can find them on the web.

SUPPORTING OUR BRAVE VOLUNTEERS

There are approximately 89,000 volunteer firefighters in New York, all of whom make a vital contribution to the safety and welfare of state residents. An estimated 95 percent of all state firefighters participate on a volunteer basis. In addition, there are over 33,000 volunteer emergency medical technicians in the state.

These brave volunteers need our support in Albany. I have joined members of my Assembly Minority Conference in sponsoring the Omnibus Emergency Services Volunteer Incentive Act (A.4781), which would support first responders and encourage all New Yorkers to volunteer in their communities. For example, this legislation would increase the personal income tax deduction after four or more years of service for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. In addition, I have also introduced legislation (A.1552) that would expand the existing health coverage provided under the Volunteer Firefighters' Benefit Law. We must protect the health and well-being of our firefighters - they risk their lives to serve others and selflessly donate their time and talent to their communities.

I encourage everyone interested in serving his or her community through volunteer fire service to stop by a local RecruitNY event. Serving as a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding opportunity to make a difference and be one of the brave local heroes who put their lives on the line to protect us when an urgent situation arises.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the families affected by the tragic events in Boston and Texas. It is during these trying times that I am reminded of the true greatness of the American people and their everlasting spirit.

What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.