Allegany County, NY (September 2, 2011)
The Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce held its first Legislative Breakfast sponsored by Houghton College this morning on the college campus. The morning began with breakfast at the Reinhold Campus Center with opening remarks from Brian Loucks, the Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce President and a welcome address and prayer from Houghton College President Shirley Mullen. A panel discussion followed, moderated by Bob VanWicklin, Vice President for Advancement at Houghton College, addressing opportunities and challenges facing Allegany County businesses and residents. The panelists were Melissa Fratello, Western New York Director representing U.S. Senator Kirstin Gillibrand; Tom Reed, U.S. Congressman; Catharine Young, New York State Senator; Dan Burling, New York State Assemblyman; Joe Giglio, New York State Assemblyman; and Curt Crandall, Chair of the Allegany County Board of Legislators. Discussed were such issues as economic development, hydrofracking, health care, issues surrounding small businesses, unemployment and health insurance. When asked what Allegany County residents could do to contribute to the success of the work these dignitaries advocate on behalf of Allegany County there was a unanimous answer; involvement and communication. The residents of Allegany County were urged by these public officials to make themselves aware of what they are voting on and give feedback as to what is important on a local level.