Weekly E-Mail Blast

This week, the Assembly voted to continue its history of justice for all New Yorkers with the passage of GENDA, which I proudly supported. This bill bans discrimination against LGBT New Yorkers based on their gender identity or expression, and it marks a significant step forward in providing equal rights and protections under the law.

On Wednesday, my first bill passed in the Assembly: a five-year extension of the state commission on the restoration of the State Capitol. I commend the Governor for expediting the remarkable restoration of the Capitol its original grandeur.

Below are more community highlights and upcoming events that may be of interest:

  • Tonight (Friday, May 3), Stage 1 Gallery (46 N. Swan St., Albany) will host an evening reception, presenting artwork created by students in the Albany City School District. The students’ work will be part of a gallery exhibit entitled, “Seeing Green: Environmentally Conscious Art,” which also includes environmentally-themed work from five local artists.
  • This Saturday, May 4 is Family Day at the Garden at Myers Middle School. A bit of light carpentry, loosening soil, and otherwise getting hands dirty are all on the agenda. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • On Sunday, the second annual Delmar Duathlon will take place at Elm Avenue Park starting at 8 a.m. The race includes a running for two miles, biking for ten miles, and running for another two miles. Proceeds benefit the YMCA’s Reach Out for Youth program. More information can be found here.
  • Congratulations to John McIntyre and the team at Spotlight Newspapers in Delmar with the opening of your new offices at 343 Delaware Avenue. Check out photos from the grand opening here.
  • The Neighborhood Resource Center held its 2013 Outstanding Neighborhood Service Awards this week, honoring several individuals such as SEFCU CEO Michael Castellana, the SNUG Program, the Orlo School of Hair Design and Cosmetology, Albany City Auditor Leif Engstrom, and neighborhood advocates, Joanne Morton and Debra Schramek. Congratulations to all the winners!

Please join me for next two Community Coffees on Friday, May 17 at the Hudson River Coffee House and Friday, May 31, at Brueggers Bagels at Hannaford Plazaon Central Avenue. Both events run from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and are a helpful way for me to connect with you in your respective neighborhoods.