The election season is long gone, the transitions are well underway, and the swearing-in ceremonies have taken place -- now we're about to get right to work on the 2011 legislative session.

Governor Andrew Cuomo will deliver his first State of the State message to the Legislature on Wednesday, January 5th.  This annual speech represents the traditional kickoff to each and every legislative session, and I'm eager to join my colleagues in the Senate and the Assembly to begin addressing the very difficult and serious challenges facing our state this year.

Here at the beginning of my first term, then, I'll take this opportunity to encourage your interest and participation in New York government throughout the 2011 session.  I always look forward to hearing from you.