Seward Hails New Ag Commissioner

ALBANY, 2/27/07 -- On the floor of the state senate, state Senator James L. Seward praised the qualifications of area resident Patrick Hooker to serve as commissioner of the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. Hooker is a resident of the Town of Columbia in Seward's district, and he was confirmed by the state senate today. Earlier, Seward spoke in favor of Hooker in hearings held by the Senate Agriculture and Finance Committees.

"Pat Hooker knows agriculture and he knows the key players in agriculture policy throughout the state," Seward said. "As someone with a farm, he knows firsthand the challenges faced by those in agriculture and by virtue of his experience he is equipped to provide insights and suggest solutions to those very challenges. Commissioner Hooker will be accessible and will work with diligence to serve the agriculture community.

"Voting for Pat Hooker in two committees and on the floor of the senate for his confirmation was a delight because I know he will do well. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I look forward to working with him."

Seward and Hooker hosted an agriculture forum in Cortland last week.

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