In these difficult economic times, I know how important it is to stimulate business development and create jobs in Yonkers. Nearly 95 percent of all Yonkers companies are small businesses, and the Assembly has passed legislation to assist them by:

• Making it easier for small businesses to receive loans through the Small Business Regional Revolving Loan Program.

• Providing zero-or-low-interest loans for energy efficiency projects.

• Creating the micro-business outreach center to provide a resource for small businesses.

Yonkers Raceway is the largest source of revenue and employment in our city, and I have worked hard to ensure its success. Last year, a law I had long championed allowing our city to receive a direct portion of revenue from the raceway, was signed by the governor. I also delivered state funding to the Empire City Racino for marketing, which will help attract more customers and increase tourism in our area.