New York State Assembly

There's nothing quite like celebrating the holidays in the Finger Lakes. This is the special time of year when we look forward to enjoying festive holiday traditions and spending time with friends and family. Amid the hustle and bustle of wrapping presents and preparing food, we can all take a moment to reconnect and truly take pleasure in one another's company.

DEMONSTRATE THE SPIRIT OF GIVING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Christmas has a longstanding reputation as a season of giving in the Finger Lakes. I want to offer my sincere appreciation to all of those who participated in our "Holiday Drive For The Troops." Together with Senator Mike Nozzolio and my Assembly colleagues Bob Oaks, Gary Finch and Phil Palmesano, we collected hundreds of items that will be sent overseas to the brave men and women serving our country.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of meeting with several groups of volunteers who work together to support our community. Our local Blue Star Mothers are dedicated to supporting the troops, and volunteers from 4-H organizations and the Geneva Boys and Girls Clubs of America are focused on supporting our children. I am also inspired by the folks that have worked hard to create, reinvigorate and support community treasures like the Farmington Quaker Meetinghouse and the Sampson Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Thank you to everyone who donates time to these and other local causes.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Families who step up to take care of the most vulnerable right here in our neighborhoods every day are local heroes. Whether they feed our neighbors in soup kitchens or tutor students in their spare time, these volunteers embody the community spirit that makes the Finger Lakes a unique community. Thank you so much for your service. During this season of giving, please explore how you can help a local charity or volunteer program.

• The Canandaigua VA Medical Center is always looking for support, which can come in a variety of forms. You can help veterans by donating time or through a financial gift. For more information visit the website at http://www.canandaigua.va.gov/giving/index.asp
• The Victor Farmington Food Cupboard is run on 100% volunteer efforts, and the hard work and generous donations of those involved make a difference in the community. Learn about the services and volunteer opportunities at their Web site.
• For more than 40 years, Happiness House has provided educational and health services to children and families in the Finger Lakes Region. Its programs serve more than 1,000 children, families and neighbors across four counties. Learn more at http://www.happinesshouse.org/#null
• The Salvation Army carries a proud tradition of service to the less fortunate, and is a fixture during the holidays seeking help for its charitable programs and activities. For information on how to contribute, visit their Web site.

The spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in the Finger Lakes all year, but especially during the holidays. I hope all of you have a joyous and safe holiday season. Once again, thank you to all the volunteers who put the needs of others before their own, making our community one-of-a-kind.

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 email me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.