As Americans watched last week's horrific events unfold in Boston, we all witnessed countless acts of courage and selflessness. 

• We saw first responders, medical personnel, and law enforcement acting with great strength and real compassion during a time of crisis. 
• We saw neighbors helping neighbors.
• We saw "ordinary" people doing truly extraordinary things.
   

In responding to acts of terror, natural disasters, fires or medical emergencies -- our nation has a long and proud tradition of stepping-up during times of crisis.   

I encourage you to consider becoming a part this proud tradition -- by volunteering to join your local fire department.       

Unfortunately, in recent years many communities across New York have seen a decline in the number of volunteers joining local departments and emergency squads. With this in mind, many volunteer departments are hosting open houses this weekend to help recruit new volunteers. 

As part of an initiative called Recruit NY, these open houses will provide information about free training programs, responsibilities and what a typical day-in-the-life of a volunteer firefighter involves. You will also learn about some of the benefits you can receive from volunteering, like tax breaks offered by the state and some local communities.

Just visit the Recruit NY website  to find an Open House at a volunteer fire department near you.

For generations, our community has been blessed with courageous volunteer firefighters -- selfless men and women who save lives and deliver care, comfort and support when tragedy strikes.    

This weekend provides a great opportunity to become a part of this proud tradition.