As we are experiencing increasingly bitter cold temperatures earlier than usual, it is ever important to stay vigilant in protecting yourself and your family from the frigid weather.  Below are the top ten cold weather safety tips from the American Red Cross:

1.  Layer up! Wear layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent losing your body heat.

2.  Don't forget your furry friends. Bring pets indoors. If they can't come inside, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.

State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I – Schenectady) announced measures that will continue to help New Yorkers battling heroin and opioid addiction, ensure access to benefits that help veterans and infants, protect consumers, and increase government transparency are among the new laws that take effect January 2017. Other changes being enacted in the new year include several road safety measures, new and extended tax cuts, and a number of consumer assistance laws that will assist New Yorkers when they are at the grocery store, buying and insuring property, or dealing with a car accident.

Dear Friends:

I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

As you know, the new year will bring major changes for me personally as my tenure in the State Senate will end on December 31st. 

It has been a tremendous honor to represent the people of Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Saratoga and Schenectady counties over the years. 

I continue to be very blessed and humbled by all the support, kindness and assistance I’ve received from people and organizations throughout the region.