E-Mail Newsletter – October 4, 2013

Thousands of infants and toddlers with disabilities receive the early intervention services they need to live normal, fulfilling lives. These services range from highly specialized therapies, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, to parent training, counseling and much more, all provided by professionals skilled in early intervention. That’s why I’m proud to join Senator Cecilia Tkaczyk on a bill that aims on mandating the state to provide timely payment of claims to the early intervention service providers -- requiring the state to share the upfront cost, with the state or its fiscal agent collecting payments from insurers quarterly to reimburse the locality and the state. Earlier this week, Governor Cuomo vetoed the M/C Salary Commission bill, which would have created a panel to review compensation for managerial or confidential state employees, who haven’t seen a pay raise since 2009. Maintaining a skilled, qualified workforce is key to running an effective state government and I will advocate that the governor reconsider establishing a panel in the future, as we have many M/C employees who have families here in the 109th. Here are a few activities and events in the 109th that may be of interest: + Domestic Violence Month is October and Albany County is hosting a number of events to commemorate this month. The Albany County District Attorney’s office is teaming up the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence in hosting events to bring awareness of domestic violence. More information can be found here. + The second annual Guilderland Community Fest will be held at Tawasentha Park on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy great food, music, pony rides, and kids' activities including a rock-climbing wall, martial arts exhibit, bounce house, and much more. + Bethlehem Historian Susan Leath has put together an exhibit about Bethlehem history at the Bethlehem Public Library. The display features then and now panels of Delmar, Slingerlands, South Bethlehem, Selkirk and Cedar Hill. Historic Bethlehem is on display at the Bethlehem Public Library from now through Oct. 31 and can be viewed during regular library hours. + Three candidates are seeking two available seats on the Albany school board in the general election on Nov. 5. The League of Women Voters has scheduled a candidates forum for Wednesday, Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. at Albany High School. The forum will provide an opportunity to meet the candidates and hear each of their platforms. If you have any upcoming events or happenings in your neighborhood, let my office know by sending us a note. As always, for the latest about my office’s happenings or for upcoming events, please visit my office online, on Facebook, and on Twitter. Sincerely ---
Pat
Patricia A. Fahy
Member of Assembly
109th District