To the Editor:

For all of my life, Upstate New York has been home -- a place filled with people who work hard, strive to make our region a better place and look out for each other.

People -- like you -- who give me the motivation each and every day to work as your state senator to improve Central and Northern New York. I am incredibly humbled that once again, I will have the opportunity serve you and represent the 48th Senate District in Albany.

Throughout my three terms in office, I have been proud to stand up for changes that have helped our region become a better place to live and work.

From helping to create jobs by cutting taxes and red tape to supporting key industries, like agriculture, and fighting for record funding for our schools, we have accomplished much in recent years, but our work is far from over.

As we prepare to begin the 2017 Legislative Session I am looking forward to continuing to build on the progress we have made in an effort to create more, and better, opportunities for people across Central and Northern New York.

I want to thank you for the support you have shown me this year and in past years, which has allowed me to be part of putting our region on a path to a brighter future. I am grateful for your placing your trust in me and look forward to again being your voice in Albany.

Patty Ritchie

48th District State Senator, R-Heuvelton