December is a magical month. Homes and towns transform into Christmas wonderlands with their lights illuminating the early dark days. This is a month filled with an array of cultural festivities. Families unite in celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah and other holidays. There is something special about gathering generations to sit around the dining table for a feast. Every year I grow more appreciative of the moments and time spent with family and the joy of the holiday season. 

The snow has made its appearance gracefully, adorning our district with some of the finest destinations for winter activities. It feels like each year the snow gets pushed out and the warmer days feel like spring. When the snow does pay a visit, riders are standing by, geared up to enjoy a northern favorite pastime: snowmobiling. 

This past weekend, I was invited to The Lewis County Area Snowmobile Association’s Snowmobile Safety Kickoff Event at the Constableville Fire Hall. It was an honor to be included with the snowmobile community, area officials and first responders to speak on the sport. I shared a story about a snowmobile experience I had where I was forced to use the kill switch. That experience made me appreciate the importance of being prepared when faced with harm. 

Snowmobiling is a great asset to the district, and it’s always a pleasure to watch riders blaze through the snow while I make my drive down to Albany. The availability of well-maintained trails is largely due to the invaluable efforts of volunteers. It is crucial to adhere to the strictest safety procedures when participating in winter activities. We express our gratitude to the snowmobile clubs and volunteers for their ongoing commitment to safeguarding our community and caring for our trails.

As we continue the season of giving, don’t forget to give back to yourself. Take the final days of December to ground yourself and recuperate. Despite the obstacles thrown at our state this year and our differences, we are ultimately united by our shared home, New York. Common sense will prevail and reveal the instability of one-party rule. I plan to continue visiting events districtwide and listening to you. The legislative session will begin on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, and I will be making my way back to Albany. This is the holiday season of giving, and I want to give our families a better New York. 

Please feel free to reach out to my office at 1-315-493-3909 or email me at blankenbushk@nyassembly.gov.