Fighting Heroin Abuse in Central New York

As we’ve been hearing in the news lately, heroin abuse is on the rise here in Central New York. In order to combat this growing problem, I and the other members of the Senate Joint Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction released a report this week summarizing the findings of statewide forums held to examine the issues surrounding the increase in drug abuse, addiction, and drug-related crimes in New York. The report includes a comprehensive package of bills recommended for action this legislative session. They target the prevention, treatment, and enforcement issues raised during testimony from dozens of experts, parents, and concerned New Yorkers. More information and the full list of bills are available on my website.

Physical and Financial Fitness Fair for Seniors

A presentation for seniors in recognition of the 9^th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day will be held on Wednesday, June 11, at the Syracuse Moose Lodge, 1121 Milton Ave., from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. No registration is necessary. Topics will include:

• Elder Abuse in our Community
• Important Facts about Powers of Attorney
• Fall Prevention through the Step Up to Stop Falls Program
• Scams in our Community
• Estate Planning Ideas

 In addition, participants will hear a survivor share her story, learn some new exercises to stay in good health, and get a medication review from a pharmacist.

For more information, visit the Vera House website or contact Jenny Hicks, Vera House project coordinator, at 425-0818 or jhicks@verahouse.org.

Discount Available for State Campgrounds

The Early Summer Camping Special for 112 state campgrounds across New York offers $5 per night off regular rates through June 26 for campers making reservations using the promo code EARLYCAMP14.  The deal covers New York State Parks- and Department of Environmental Conservation-operated campgrounds in nearly every region.

New on the State Parks website are 360-degree campground virtual tours, which provide visitors a firsthand look at selected campgrounds. Additional tours of state parks and many DEC campgrounds will be added to the website this season.

To act on the Early Summer Camping Special, reservations can be made online or by phone at 800-456-CAMP.