News from Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb
Assembly Office:
933 Legislative Office Building • Albany, NY 12248 • (518) 455-3751
District Offices:
607 West Washington Street • Suite 2 • Geneva, NY 14456 • (315) 781-2030
E-mail:

For Release: IMMEDIATELY, December 30, 2016
Contact: Mike Fraser, (518) 455-3751
Let 2017 Be A Year Of Hope, Helpfulness And Happiness
Column from Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua)

New Year's Day, in many ways, represents a clean slate- a fresh start. While it is, practically speaking, merely the changing over from one year to another, it means much more in the hearts and minds of many who will be celebrating. It is a time of thoughtfulness, reflection and goal-setting. It is a chance to hit the reset button and begin the new year with a renewed sense of optimism. Even if only symbolic, the beginning of a new year represents a great opportunity to renew our ambitions and refocus ourselves. I hope you will join me in preparing for 2017 with a sense of hope, helpfulness and happiness.

WE CAN OVERCOME OUR OBSTACLES TOGETHER

It is difficult to truly know the struggles of our neighbors. For some, the day-to-day obstacles they face may not be apparent to even close friends and family. For many, their challenges are difficult to express to others. I ask that 2017 be a year of compassion. Let us be especially mindful of those struggling with poverty, addiction, disability, loss and other hardships. One of the greatest strengths of New York's many wonderful communities is the amazing charity and goodwill of those who live here. I have no doubt the upcoming year will be filled with kindness and generosity; communication and compromise.

As a Legislative Leader, one of the most important things I do is listen to the concerns of those I represent in the Finger Lakes Region and around New York. I promise to fight for the things that are important to all of you and fight for legislation that will improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Together, we will face all of New York's many challenges head-on, grow and prosper in the upcoming year.

CELEBRATE 2017 RESPONSIBLY

New Year's Eve celebrations are a great way to bond over what we've shared this past year and what we hope to achieve in the next. But, we must be sure to do so responsibly. Parties often go long into the night, so please, wherever you choose to celebrate, do so safely. Be sure to plan ahead for transportation and accommodations and know your limits.

There is much to celebrate in the upcoming year. New York's future is bright, with a world of possibilities ahead. Have a happy and healthy New Year; I look forward to working to make it a great one.

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.