There are numerous examples of how we have demonstrated a collective generosity and kept the spirit of Christmas alive. I have had the pleasure of participating in two incredible community-based efforts to give back, the seventh annual “Tithe My Shoes” drive and the Stockings for Veterans collection in support of our veterans celebrating Christmas in the hospital.

This year’s “Tithe My Shoes” event will help provide 20,000 pairs of shoes to those in need thanks to the efforts of organizer Mudd Murphy, former mayor of Central Square and executive director of the Oswego County Conferences of Mayors, and Ralph Rotella, owner of Discount Shoe Repair in Syracuse, who fixes up the shoes and donates them to the Rescue Mission. The community also responded in a big way this year as we were able to fill stockings with personal care items for more than 135 veterans spending Christmas in the VA Medical Center in Syracuse.  

These are just a few of the many ways we have come together this season. Surely, there are countless others. I, for one, am thankful for all the generosity and goodwill I have seen in my community, and I am hopeful we continue taking care of each other as we push through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To that end, on behalf of my family and colleagues in the Assembly Minority Conference, I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season. Stay warm and enjoy the holiday in whichever way you choose to celebrate. I look forward to getting back to work on the other side of the break; our Conference is hopeful for a productive and prosperous 2021.