Latest Media Releases from Brian Higgins

Statement by Congressman Higgins on Howard Zemsky�s Appointment as Chair of the NFTA

2012-05-15T20:57:25Z

Congressman Brian Higgins released the following statement in response to the State’s appointment of Howard Zemsky to serve as Chairman of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA):

“Howard Zemsky is a true Buffalo believer. His record demonstrates a keen ability to foresee the possibilities and break through barriers to get things done.

“Howard is an economic development leader with roots that remain strongly connected to the neighborhood. The Larkin District exemplifies his inspired vision and deep understanding and inclusion of the community’s needs.

“The appointment of Howard as Chair of the NFTA is the right choice at the right time as we work to free the NFTA from the waterfront business and help the agency concentrate on its core mission.”

Statement by Congressman Higgins on Sabres Organization Contribution to Canalside

2012-05-15T18:13:38Z

“Hockey great Wayne Gretzky once said, ‘a good hockey player plays where the puck is…a great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.’ This is yet another example of Terry Pegula’s commitment to not just our team’s future but our community’s future.

“Thanks to the hard work of Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and Buffalo Place, Canalside is certainly a place where, more and more, private investors and the public want to be.

“This community is extremely grateful for the Sabres organization’s generous donation which will improve the Sabres’ front lawn and Western New York’s transforming waterfront.”

Statement from Congressman Brian Higgins on DOT Street Sign Regulations

2012-05-15T16:05:42Z

“I was pleased to hear that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has officially eliminated regulations relating to street sign lettering and reflectivity that would have required local municipalities to replace signs,” said Congressman Higgins. “This process would have been costly and would have diverted transportation funding in already stretched thin budgets away from other more needed infrastructure improvements. Instead of wasting our time and energy on unnecessary bureaucratic mandates, let’s make economic development and job creation a priority in our local communities.”

Timeline:

In a letter to the Federal Highway Administration dated November 9, 2010, Congressman Higgins questioned the new rules writing, “Since we are in a time where communities across Western New York and the country are struggling to balance their budgets, I was extremely disturbed to see that the Federal Highway Administration would add an additional mandate on these cash-strapped communities, forcing them to upgrade signs.”

On November 30, 2010 Congressman Higgins noted the reopening of the public comment period on the sign regulations and encouraged the public to weigh in.

Congressman Higgins officially filed his own opinion on the matter with a letter sent to the Federal Highway Administration on January 11, 2011 stating, “Amid this extremely difficult fiscal situation, local jurisdictions are justifiably sensitive to any new regulations and compliance deadlines that will increase the cost of transportation and infrastructure obligations, potentially diverting resources from critical priorities. As you continue to evaluate these regulations, I would urge you to please consider the financial situation of these communities. We can all agree that the safety of our roads for all citizens is imperatives, but the implementation of these regulations should also carefully consider their fiscal impact.”

In August 2011, Congressman Higgins applauded the Department of Transportation for their plans to lift this mandate.

Higgins, State Leaders Want NFTA�s 58 Year Hold on Outer Harbor Land to End

2012-05-11T16:23:39Z

Congressman Brian Higgins, New York State Assemblyman Sean Ryan and other local leaders laid out a plan that would once and for all take the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) out of the waterfront business.

In a letter to NFTA Commissioners Higgins wrote, “It is undeniable that this public land has remained in the wrong public hands for too long…The land is not poised to serve its highest and best use…Is clear that NFTA must relinquish its waterfront holdings finally and forever.”

"The NFTA needs to get back to their core mission of public transportation, and I have been encouraged by the NFTA's recent actions in that regard," said Assemblyman Ryan. "The time has come for the NFTA to get out of the business of owning waterfront land and follow this plan to transfer ownership to ECHDC. Preserving public access to these important public assets must be the guiding principle going forward, and ECHDC is the best entity to develop this property going forward."

“This proposal will accomplish the dual goals of sparking further waterfront redevelopment while ensuring local transportation needs are met,” said Senator Kennedy. “Western New York wants progress now. Coming together behind this common-sense solution will allow us to take the next step forward to provide Western New Yorkers with the waterfront they deserve and the transportation services they need. A redeveloped waterfront and comprehensive transit systems are critical to our regional economic future – this plan will help us achieve those aims.”

More than $125 million in infrastructure investments along the Outer Harbor in recent years, including construction of the new Parkway, is drawing more people and activity to this portion of Buffalo's waterfront. However, nearly six decades of control of hundreds of acres of prime Outer Harbor land by a public authority that has transportation, not waterfront development, as its core mission has resulted in minimal investments historically and left the fate of this property in limbo.

Since the formation of the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC), Buffalo's inner harbor has seen incredible progress drawing more than 500,000 people to the Commercial Slip. Public investment is delivering the first private sector interest and activity on Buffalo’s waterfront – over $80 million in private investment to date.

Over the last several weeks leaders have been working to develop and gain support for a bold plan to change the course of Buffalo’s waterfront and fight decades of inertia along the Outer Harbor.

Under the proposal:

Over 384 acres of property currently under control of the NFTA will be transferred to the ECHDC for $1 by October of 2012.
Upon transfer, ECHDC will invest more than $11 million in improvements into the site including: restaurant expansion; clean-up and greening of the land; creation of a sand beach at Gallagher Beach; breakwall rehab including bike and pedestrian path extension, decorative lighting and benches; as well as dredging of the waterway.
Revenue from economic activity generated at the Small Boat Harbor and other portions of the property will be redirected for future Outer Harbor site enhancements.

“Agencies and leaders have the opportunity to come together to do what’s right for our city and our waterfront,” added Higgins. “Releasing the NFTA’s 58 year hold on Outer Harbor property allows the transit agency to refocus on its mission to move people and puts waterfront development in the hands of the accomplished waterfront agency. We are just beginning to see the promise our waterfront holds, this is the next logical step in the process.”

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Proposal to Transfer NFTA Outer Harbor Land to ECHDC

Public infrastructure is a public responsibility; public access must remain in the public domain. These guiding principles are visibly realized by the more than $125M investment by various levels of government in Buffalo’s Outer Harbor in the past six years, most notably the Outer Harbor Parkway. This significant public investment must be protected and promoted to its highest and best use.

Proposal: NFTA Transfer all Outer Harbor Properties to ECHDC

Parties agree that as the responsible agency for waterfront development, ECHDC is the logical choice to take controlling interest of the NFTA Outer Harbor Land – including 120 acre Lakeside Meadows Greenfield (formerly the Pier), 60 acre Terminals A/B, 204 acre Small Boat Harbor/Gallagher Beach by October, 2012
Determine most effective, efficient way to transfer ownership for $1.
ECHDC identifies/secures necessary resources to complete transfer and implement infrastructure improvements
NFTA relinquishes any financial claim to revenues generated from this property
ECHDC will agree, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to indemnify and hold the NFTA harmless from and against any and all environmental concerns.
Upon transfer, ECHDC will immediately direct resources to priority infrastructure projects:
- $4M Harbor Breakwall Rehabilitation - address erosion, extend bike path and sidewalk onto the break wall along with lighting, park benches and addition of four observation decks.
- $3M Dredging – est. 115,000 cy (cubic yards) to be removed and disposed
- $2M Restaurant expansion/upgrades to address demand and increase profitability
- $500K Full Scale Sand Beach development at Gallagher Beach
- $2M Clean-up, grading, import fill and top soil, install lawn cover and seed mix along 120 acre Outer Harbor Park (Lakeside Meadows Greenfield)
This work will be guided by 2008 Buffalo Outer Harbor/Lakeside Meadows Greenfield Project MOU, recommendations from the Buffalo Harbor BOA (Brownfield Opportunity Area) and the experience of the BUDC (Buffalo Urban Development Corporation) and its subsidiary, BBRC (Buffalo Brownfield Restoration Corporation) in environmental cleanup and reclaimed land for development.
Support all efforts to increase revenue potential at Small Boat Harbor through increased slip rentals, bike rentals, concessions and restaurant expansion.
Parties agree that revenue from the economic activity generated at the Small Boat Harbor will be directed for Outer Harbor site improvements and enhancements of the public’s access to the water’s edge; including new and/or expanded restaurant facilities.
Work to identify/secure additional funding with potential eligible sources including but not limited to – Federal, NYS, County, City, Niagara Greenway Commission – for example:
- Ohio Street Infrastructure Improvements $8M for design/construction – a reconstruction of this dynamic street to strengthen the multi-modal connections’ between Inner and Outer Harbor developments offers an ideal opportunity for the City of Buffalo’s stated interest in using capital resources and public works experience
- Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund Standing Committee – $2M available for eligible projects annually; Greenway Ecological Fund Standing Committee has $1M annually to award

Statement by Congressman Brian Higgins on the Announcement that William Street Mail Processing Facility Will Remain Open

2012-05-11T00:12:39Z

“The announcement from the Postmaster General that the William Street Mail Processing Facility will remain open for at least three more years is welcome news. I am pleased that the United States Postal Service has listened to our arguments and recognized that their original closure plan was ill-conceived. This reversal highlights the importance of speaking out and challenging the federal bureaucracy and shows what can be achieved by joining together and using our voices to fight for what’s right. We will continue to make the case – in Western New York and across the nation – for why William Street Mail Processing Facility should be held up as a national model and kept off the closure list for good.”

Higgins and Ryan Call on Thruway Authority to Keep Grand Island E-ZPass Center Open

2012-05-10T13:50:02Z

Congressman Brian Higgins and New York State Assemblyman Sean Ryan are calling on the New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA) to reconsider plans to close its existing E-ZPass Walk-In Center on Grand Island.

“What we have on Grand Island is a very unique situation where residents have no choice but to pay the tolls as they travel to and from their homes,” said Congressman Higgins. “If the Thruway Authority wants to remove the tolls at Grand Island we would certainly reconsider our position on this consolidation plan, but if they are going to continue to collect tolls at this crossing in Western New York then they should provide residents here with equal access to the services they provide in other portions of the state.”

"Unfortunately, Grand Island residents and those using the Grand Island bridges continue to have to pay tolls, and so long as those tolls are in place, an E-ZPass service center should remain open," said Assemblyman Ryan. "Grand Island residents should still continue to have an easily accessible E-ZPass service center, and the Thruway Authority needs to rethink this decision."

On May 8, the NYSTA announced that the Grand Island E-ZPass Walk-in Center is among three facilities in upstate New York that will go out of service on June 8. The NYSTA continues to maintain four Walk-In Centers in downstate New York.

In the month of February alone, more than 1.66 million vehicles crossed the North and South Grand Island Bridges combined. The Grand Island bridges saw a greater than 10% increase in vehicle trips over the last year – the highest increase in the state. In addition, according to the February NYSTA report, an E-ZPass is used on more than 68% of the trips.

Below is a copy of the letter sent by local leaders to the Thruway Authority:

May 10, 2012

The Honorable Howard Milstein, Board Chair

The Honorable Thomas J. Madison, Jr., Executive Director

New York State Thruway Authority

200 Southern Blvd.

PO Box 189

Albany, NY 12201-0189

RE: PROPOSED CLOSURE OF EZ-PASS WALK-IN CENTER ON GRAND ISLAND, NY

Dear Messrs. Milstein & Madison:

We write to express our deep concern about the proposed closure of the EZ-Pass Walk-In Center located at 2293 Grand Island Boulevard in Grand Island, NY. Given that this closure will leave no dedicated Walk-In Centers anywhere in upstate New York, and will place Grand Island, a uniquely situated town as it relates to tolls unlike any other due to it’s geography, we urge you to reconsider this decision, and at the very least delay the closure so that the residents of Grand Island may have a greater say in the decision.

As you know, Grand Island is that most unique of geographic entities in which there is no option for vehicular traffic but for the two bridges, north and south, that feed vehicular traffic onto and off of the island. We are concerned that NYSTA’s decision to close the sole stand-alone Walk-In Center that services Western New York is a decision that will result in substantially diminished services to the residents of this very unique town.

It appears that it is NYSTA’s belief that the decision to close the Walk-In Center is sufficiently mitigated in two areas: 1) that access to the internet and to the EZ-Pass website allows local residents sufficient ability to address their needs; and 2) that local residents may be sufficiently serviced by EZ-Pass “On the Go” locations in retail establishments located throughout the state. Respectfully, because the circumstances for Grand Island residents and businesses are so unique, it is our belief that these mitigations are insufficient.

Grand Island’s unique place as a residential and commercial governmental entity serviced by the Thruway has always gone noticed by NYSTA itself. NYSTA has taken note of the unique nature of the town by providing substantially discounted tolls to residents, business owners and frequent travelers to the Island. It is because of this unique nature that we believe that the idea of closing the only Walk-In Center staffed by trained NYSTA personnel should be revisited.

NYSTA’s own statistics bear out the increased use of EZ-Pass on the Grand Island bridges. Year to year analysis from 2011 to 2012 show a double-digit increase in traffic on both bridges, with EZ Pass revenue on both bridges seeing a slight increase. The message continues to get through to residents and business owners to use the service. With usage and revenue both on the rise, this is not the time to reduce access to customer service – particularly to a community who when crossing the town limits of Grand Island must utilize NYSTA resources.

Leaving the entirety of upstate New York without an EZ Pass Walk-In Center is also problematic. While limiting these centers only to downstate communities would raise concerns for any upstate community, it is doubly of concern to residents in Western New York – upstate’s largest metropolitan area – and the home to this very specifically unique town whose residents are forced to pay tolls to return to their homes after their workdays.

Accordingly, we are asking that the NYSTA board reconsider the decision to close the Grand Island Walk-In Center. At minimum, we ask that the decision be delayed so that the residents of Grand Island may have a greater say in this decision. We understand the need for government – and particularly for public authorities – to continue efforts to reduce costs. But it is essential that the public – be they workers, business owners, senior citizens or anyone else – have access to basic services.

We eagerly await your reply, and thank you in advance for your kind consideration of the foregoing.

Sincerely,

Brian Higgins

MEMBER OF CONGRESS

Sean Ryan

MEMBER OF ASSEMBLY

Higgins Organizes Meeting with �Save the Michaels of the World� and Federal Officials

2012-05-09T16:48:23Z

This week families touched by tragedy associated with the growing prescription drug epidemic are joining Congressman Brian Higgins and others in Washington, DC to hear about national efforts to fight the prescription drug epidemic and call for action.

“The data is strong but when the families tell their stories the need to address the growing prescription drug problem becomes even more compelling,” said Congressman Higgins. “The technology is available to make sure doctors and pharmacists have better and complete information on which prescriptions patients are receiving. We will be working closely and aggressively with the families to help fight for widespread electronic medical record implementation that provides real time information to help prevent addiction and abuse of prescription drugs.”

In a meeting arranged by Congressman Higgins, families involved with the “Save the Michaels of the World” group sat with officials from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to discuss the federal government’s efforts in attacking prescription drug abuse. The forum provided an opportunity to determine ways that HHS can work with Save the Michael of the World to achieve common goals.

“We are extremely thankful to Congressman Higgins for assembling key folks handling federal prescription drug policy, and providing us the opportunity to deliver our stories on a national level,” said Avi Israel, the father of Michael David Israel. “There were certainly tears in the room and we think it is a critical eye-opener that ties the human urgency to the legislative process.”

(To access video click above or go to: http://youtu.be/QEY6tf1gNW4)

Congressman Higgins also spoke out about the issue in the Capitol. Below is the text of the Congressman’s speech on the House Floor:

Mr. Speaker, in a devastating trend the Centers for Disease Control is calling a public health epidemic, prescription drug death rates in the United States have more than tripled since 1990. In a strange twist of fate, addictive prescription painkillers are killing our children, causing a lifetime of pain for grief stricken families.

This week the parents of Michael David Israel join other parents on Capitol Hill to call for changes to prevent these tragedies.

The Centers for Disease Control is recommending the implementation of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs, State-run electronic databases used to track the dispensing of controlled drugs to patients. States must move urgently to implement this technology and the federal government should support this common-sense transition to electronic medical records. Avi and Julie Israel and other parents in Washington this week have shown amazing strength despite unthinkable sorrow. Their pain will never be relieved but we have an obligation to move quickly to “Save the Michaels of the World.”

The total number of opioid pain relief prescriptions has skyrocketed over the past 20 years from just 76 million in 1991 to 210 million in 2010. Unintentional Drug Overdose due to Opioids is greater than the overdose rate due to heroin and cocaine, combined.

Congressman Brian Higgins is cosponsoring the ID MEDS Act, HR 4292, legislation to establish a nationwide interoperable prescription drug monitoring program that provides real time information to doctors and pharmacists to prevent drugs from getting into the wrong hands. Higgins also joined the Congressional Prescription Drug Abuse Caucus and committed to continue to work with “Save the Michaels of the World” and others on legislative proposals to achieve their goals.

Higgins Applauds U.S. Army Corps Plans to Speed Up Action to Protect Great Lakes

2012-05-08T18:27:22Z

Congressman Brian Higgins applauded today’s announcement that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will provide Congress and the public the opportunity to identify a potential permanent Asian carp solution by next year, much earlier than initially expected.

The Army Corps is currently conducting a Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study (GLMRIS). Completion of the feasibility study was not anticipated until 2015. In February, Congressman Brian Higgins and other members of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force sent a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers calling on the agency to expedite the timeline for action.

“Swift action is welcome and warranted,” said Higgins. “The threat to our Great Lakes is too great and delays too costly to our environmental and economic future.”

Congressman Higgins’ district borders Lake Erie. He has been a staunch advocate for protection of the water and investments on the waterfront, most recently cosponsoring the Stop Invasive Species Act (H.R. 4406) sponsored by Rep. Louise Slaughter.

In 2008, the Brookings Institution released a report which concluded that Great Lakes Restoration efforts have the potential to create jobs, development, and increased property values that generate between 600 million and 1.1 billion dollars in the Buffalo region alone. The Great Lakes represent the largest surface source of fresh water on this planet.

Congressman Higgins to Host Grant Workshop for Local Firefighters

2012-05-08T15:35:28Z

Congressman Brian Higgins invites local firefighters to an upcoming Firefighters Grant Program Workshop in Western New York. The workshop will be held on Monday May 14th at 7:00 P.M. at the Cheektowaga Central High School Cafeteria at 3600 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14225.

A Department of Homeland Security official will be on hand to provide information about the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The workshop will help potential applicants understand the purpose of the FY 2012 AFG Program, changes since FY 2011, funding priorities, award evaluation, and a brief description other AFG funding opportunities.

The AFG program provides competitive grants to fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations to improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, and to establish or expand fire prevention programs throughout the United States. All applications are submitted to DHS and go through a non-partisan, merit based review ranked by factors established by a panel of fire service professionals.

For more information on the fire grant program visit the federal fire grant website at: http://www.firegrantsupport.com. Please contact Jackie Schmid at Congressman Higgins’ office to confirm your attendance at 716-852-3501 at the workshop.

Higgins Announces Over $2.5 Million Innovation Challenge Grant for University at Buffalo

2012-05-08T14:59:37Z

Congressman Brian Higgins announced the University at Buffalo has been awarded a $2,570,749 health care innovation award through the federal government. University Emergency Medical Services was one of only 26 awards announced today in the first round of grants administered through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid innovation.

“Once again Western New York is demonstrating it can be an outlier in healthcare innovation,” said Congressman Brian Higgins. “I commend the doctors in the University at Buffalo’s emergency medicine department for their development of a project which shows great promise to cut costs, improve our health delivery system and make a difference in the lives and health of Western New Yorkers.”

Last November the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced plans to provide $1 billion toward innovative projects across the nation that test creative ways to deliver high quality medical care and save money. The projects, funded by the Affordable Care Act, aim to deliver better health, improved care at lower costs to people enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program.

University Emergency Medical Services, an affiliate of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University at Buffalo, intends to use the grant to place community health workers in emergency departments to identify high-risk patients and link them to primary care, social and health services, education, and health coaching.

The program will target 2300 Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who have made multiple emergency department visits. The project will also create 13 new jobs.

Reduced ER and hospital admissions and improved health outcomes are projected to create savings of approximately $6.1 million.

Higgins Kicks-Off National Nurses Week with Visiting Nursing Association of WNY

2012-05-07T19:31:48Z

Congressman Brian Higgins visited the headquarters of the Visiting Nursing Association (VNA) of Western New York to celebrate National Nurses Week and congratulate the local organization for receiving top scores in a national survey on patient satisfaction.

“From its inception, the Visiting Nursing Association of Western New York has been a trailblazer in top quality patient care,” said Congressman Higgins. “These nurses provide patients and their families with the incredible gift of compassionate homecare allowing for continued independence and delivering peace-of-mind.”

National Nurses Week is celebrated every year beginning May 6th and ending May 12th, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday, who is recognized as the founder of nursing. Congressman Higgins is also a cosponsor of a resolution commemorating National Nurses Week.

"Our primary focus is providing the highest level of quality care for our patients, allowing them to stay in the comfort of their homes in our Western New York communities,” said Judy Baumgartner, the president of the Visiting Nursing Association. “We are very proud of our results on the recent Patient Experience Survey. It is a testament to the dedication, excellence and compassion of all of our staff at VNA. Having Congressman Higgins recognize and thank our team for this achievement was a fantastic way to kick off National Nurses Week."

In the Home Health Care Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems measured by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) the VNA ranked above state and national averages. The survey is a new tool providing patients and caregivers the opportunity to compare home health agencies by looking at patient opinions. The surveys, which are updated every four months, are designed to increase transparency, create incentives for home health agencies to improve quality of care and give patients access to comparative data. The comparison tools are available to the public at: http://www.medicare.gov/. The VNA has been an early adopter to this newly mandated national survey process.

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 26 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than average for all occupations. Growth is attributed in part to a large baby boomer population who live longer and more active lives than previous generations. This increase in the need for nurses is expected in traditional hospital settings as well as non-traditional settings including physician’s offices and home healthcare services.

In 1885 Elizabeth Coe Marshall, a Buffalo teacher, founded what became the VNA when she recognized the need and collected donations to support a traveling nurse to serve the ill and indigent. The VNA was one of the very first visiting nurse charities here in the United States and over the years has grown to one of the largest home health care agencies in the nation providing a range of services for all ages and 350,000 home visits annually. Over the decades the VNA of WNY, a member of the Home Care Association of NYS, has continued to adapt to meet the latest needs and incorporate today’s technology to provide top quality patient care.

Congressman Higgins Announces Winners of Annual Student Art Competition

2012-05-06T20:48:45Z

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced the winners of the annual Congressional art competition, “An Artistic Discovery.” One piece from each Congressional district is chosen to be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the Capitol Building.

“The arts play an important role in education,” said Congressman Higgins. “This is a great opportunity to showcase the work of talented Western New York students both locally and in our nation’s Capitol.”

All artwork submitted to Congressman Higgins’ office was displayed for the public in first floor lobby at the Larkin at Exchange Building. In addition, each piece was posted in a virtual gallery on Congressman Higgins’ website and the public was invited to choose which one they liked best. Over 350 votes were tallied in the online contest.

On May 6th Congressman Higgins hosted a ceremony for teachers, students and their families where the top winners were announced. Nearly 24 students from 10 different high schools in Erie and Chautauqua Counties entered artwork. Serving as judges were Caroline Barry, a local artist and freelance writer; Jen Swan, Communication & Administration Coordinator for Arts Services Initiative of Western New York, Inc. and Leslie Zemsky, a local artist and President of the Albright Knox Art Gallery.

Below is a list of this year’s winners:

Grand Prize – To Be Displayed in Washington, DC

Malinda Rosenswie from Springville High School for her work entitled “Above it All” (Acrylic)

In describing her artwork, Malinda Rosenswie said, “I used collage methods in this piece to show the life of adolescents everywhere who have struggled to overcome any aspects of bullying. The girl in this painting represents the many ways we are working to rise above the negativity and be people who can soar over the issues of bullying instead of allowing them to define us.”

Best of Western New York :

James Scamacca from Iroquois High School for his work entitled “Buffalo City Hall” (Watercolor)

Online Gallery Winner – Voted on by the Public

Malinda Rosenswie from Springville High School for her work entitled “Above it All” (Acrylic)

Second Place:

Victoria Yargau from Lake Shore High School for her work entitled “Buffalo Rider” (Mixed Medium)

Third Place:

Lauren Jenny from Iroquois High School for her work entitled “Pucker Up” (Pencil)

All artwork can still be seen on Congressman Higgins’ Flickr page at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/repbrianhiggins/.

Prescription Drug Abuse: Progress in Albany, Washington

2012-05-04T19:24:04Z

“We’re making progress toward saving the Michaels of world, toward making a real difference in preventing prescription drug addiction,” said Avi Israel, who along with his wife Julie Israel, founded Save the Michaels of the World – a prescription drug abuse prevention and awareness group named for their son Michael, who took his own life after battling addiction to prescription painkillers.

“But we’re not there yet. We can’t let up. We need to keep fighting,” Mr. Israel added.

At a press conference Friday, the Israels and several local families, who have lost loved ones to prescription drug abuse, discussed the progress they’ve made in Albany and announced efforts to build on momentum in Washington. They were joined by federal and state lawmakers who have been leading the attack against the prescription drug abuse epidemic.

During their most recent trip to Albany, Save the Michaels of the World secured commitments from top state leaders, who indicated that action will be taken in Albany this year to prevent prescription drug abuse. Negotiations are ongoing, but Save the Michaels are building momentum for legislative action this session.

“This week, we had meetings with Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Jim Malatras, a senior policy advisor to Governor Cuomo,” said Mr. Israel. “In each of those meetings, we heard similar commitments from our state’s top leaders. They told us that action would be taken this year, that New York State would pass legislation to prevent addiction and fight the epidemic of prescription drug abuse. We were thrilled to hear them commit their support, and we are confident they will keep their word as they work out the final details. We look forward to the day the Senate and Assembly come together in agreement, and the Governor signs legislation into law.”

Earlier this year, Mr. Israel contacted Congressman Brian Higgins for assistance with scheduling Washington, D.C. meetings to help bring awareness to the issue of prescription drug abuse on a national scale. On Tuesday, May 8, Israel and fellow prescription drug abuse advocates will join Higgins in his Washington, D.C. office for a discussion with high-ranking Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) representatives on strategies for combating the prescription drug abuse epidemic nationwide. The Israels and the other families also have meetings with the entire WNY Federal Delegation as well as Representatives from California.

“Avi and Julie have shown amazing strength despite unthinkable sorrow,” said Congressman Brian Higgins. “We need a stop to the alarming prescription drug epidemic locally and nationally to save other families from tragedy. The Israels are amazing champions for this cause and I am honored to join with them as we take this fight to Washington, DC.”

The Western New York State Delegation is lining up in support of reform to prevent prescription drug abuse. Many local state lawmakers have expressed support for Attorney General Eric Schneiderman’s proposed legislation, the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) Act. Several Western New York legislators are supporting the Michael David Israel Laws, which are sponsored by Senator Tim Kennedy and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes.

“The wrath of the prescription drug abuse epidemic has been felt across the nation and here at home where so many innocent families are falling victim to painkiller addiction,” said Senator Kennedy. “Avi, Julie and all of the local family advocates have bravely served as the driving forces behind this reform movement. The State Legislature needs to listen to these grieving families and take action now to fix this broken system before another life is lost and another family has to endure their pain. As the final details of reform legislation are hammered out in Albany, we need to address the concepts we included in the Michael David Israel Laws – physician training, patient information and addiction transition, as well as the real-time reporting system proposed in I-STOP.”

“The prescription drug abuse epidemic is gripping western New York and beyond. We must take firm action to clamp down on those who supply the drugs and increase penalties on those who commit crime in pursuit of them. I look forward to meeting with the Israel family and the members of ‘Save the Michaels of the World’ in DC next week. I thank them for all they have done to push this important issue forward," said Senator Charles Schumer, who has supported funding for interstate, real-time prescription drug databases, called on the Food and Drug Administration to carefully weigh approval of highly addictive substances, and worked with the Drug Enforcement Agency to educate small pharmacies across New York about best practice to prevent hold ups and theft of oxycodone and similar drugs.

“Prescription drug abuse is a troubling epidemic affecting thousands of families across New York State, and we must take real action to address this crisis,” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “Tragic stories like that of Michael Israel's are growing far too common, as powerful, addictive prescription drugs are too easily accessed by our children. Effective regulation and monitoring can be a part of the solution, and I applaud the family of Michael Israel for bringing their advocacy efforts to Washington.”

“The number one fear every parent has is losing their child. The Israels have already had to experience this unbearable tragedy, but we can still help save thousands of Western New Yorkers before it’s too late,” said Congresswoman Kathy Hochul. “Washington needs to focus on this epidemic, which is rapidly becoming a leading cause of death among young people in this country. The prescription drug epidemic has taken far too many lives and it’s time we finally stand up and fight this addiction.”

“I'm excited about the progress that has been made in Albany and pleased at the commitments by Senator Skelos, Governor Cuomo and Assemblyman Silver that this topic is a priority for this legislative session,” said Senator George D. Maziarz. “We had an excellent discussion during meetings that I attended with Avi and Julie alongside Senator Skelos and Jim Malatras of the Governor's office, and I am confident that this drug addiction problem is at the top of their agenda. This issue is something that is not going away on its own, so we need to do all that we can to help out individuals and families such as the Israels, to stop prescription drug addiction.”

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan said, “Prescription drug abuse and addiction has become a public health crisis across the nation and – as the Israel family knows all too well – Western New York is far from immune to its consequences. I was proud to join my Senate colleagues earlier this year to pass a series of new measures targeting prescription drug abuse and the illegal prescription drug trade, but the fight must continue if we are going to save more Michaels of the World. I applaud the Israel family for their passion and their perseverance.”

“Prescription drug abuse is becoming an epidemic and it needs to be stopped,” Assemblyman Dennis Gabryszak said. “The misuse of these drugs has caused far too many tragedies in our area. I will continue to work with my colleagues to see that this important legislation regarding prescription drug abuse reform is enacted.”

Assemblyman Sean Ryan said, “It takes a great deal of courage for Avi and Julie Israel to keep up this fight, and I am proud to stand with them as they keep up the pressure to stop prescription drug abuse in New York State. It is absolutely imperative that we pass the I-STOP legislation this year, so that we can get the tools in place needed to fight this devastating problem that is affecting every corner of our state.”

Assemblyman Kevin Smardz said, “I believe there is no greater issue concerning the health of New Yorkers than the dramatic rise in prescription related fatalities and addictions and the lack of accountability that exists in preventing such crisis from growing further. This is an epidemic, not only here in Western New York, but in the Empire State and across the nation and it deserves our immediate action. We have an opportunity to born progress and reform out of tragedy and to ensure that anyone who has lost a child to the grips of addiction has not done so in vain. I will continue to stand alongside those families and do whatever I can to prevent further prescription drug abuse here at home.”

Assemblywoman Jane L. Corwin said, “While the details of the final version of legislation regarding a prescription drug database are still being negotiated, it is important to raise awareness and bring attention to the fact that prescription drug abuse is a rising epidemic, and it is very important that we combat this issue to save lives. I will continue to support, be an advocate for, and work with my colleagues in the State Assembly and Senate to pass significant legislation that will fight against the growing issue of prescription drug abuse.”

“Prescription drug abuse is a scourge on every community across the state that knows no bounds of age, gender or any demographics,” said Assemblyman Ray Walter. “Save the Michaels of the World is leading the fight to save lives and protect families from having to battle this devastating problem. With their impassioned advocacy, I know that we can root out prescription drug abuse once and for all, and I will work every day to see that state government does not delay in doing their part.”

Assemblyman Michael Kearns said, “It is very important to raise awareness to prevent prescription drug abuse. We need to discourage our youth from starting an addiction that will have a negative impact on their futures, families and communities."

In January of this year, Congressman Higgins and Congressman Grimm led 22 of their House of Representatives colleagues in sending a letter to New York State legislators urging them to pass Attorney General Eric Schneiderman’s proposed legislation, the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) Act. New York has long been a leader in advanced medical technology. I-STOP, a state-led program connecting doctors and pharmacists to a real-time, online database to track the prescribing and dispensing of frequently abused drugs, would help New York join the ranks of 43 other states who have modernized their approach to combating prescription drug abuse.

Last fall, Congressman Higgins and Senator Kennedy joined with Avi and Julie Israel and other Western New York advocates to bring attention to the urgent need to fight against the prescription drug epidemic. Higgins has been a vocal advocate for health information technology and electronic medical records, citing the crucial role that advancements in this field, like I-STOP, would have in reducing the incidence of prescription drug abuse. Additionally, these technologies would be a means for health professionals to better exchange patient information, avoid medical errors and encourage better outcomes.

It was at this event last fall, when Kennedy and the Israel family unveiled the Michael David Israel Laws, which include:

Patient Information Act: ensures patients are aware of addiction risks for certain narcotic prescriptions, prior to taking them.
Physician Training Law: relates to continuing medical education requirements for doctors, nurses and pharmacists – requiring training on the prevention, treatment and mitigation of addiction.
Addiction Transition Law: requires the Dept. of Health to promulgate guidelines to help physicians transition patients from high-risk substances to those with a low risk or other pain management solutions.
Controlled Substance Registry Reform Act: requires physicians and pharmacists to check a real-time, online registry for indicators of abuse or addiction prior to writing or filling a prescription.

These bills are currently in committee, awaiting a vote.

In 2009, Higgins supported the HITECH Act, which created the Beacon grant program allowing HEALTHeLINK, the Western New York Clinical Exchange, to become a national outlier in the integration of Electronic Medical Records. To date 290,000 patients in 8 Western New York counties have opted into HEALTHeLINK, which enables doctors to communicate with one another and prevent addiction and abuse before it starts. This Congress, Congressman Higgins is a cosponsor of H.R. 1925, the Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, which would provide better educational tools for health professionals and consumers, clinical guidelines for methadone use, and federal support for treatment programs.

New Courthouse Dedicated in Buffalo

2012-05-03T21:04:29Z

Federal and local leaders gathered to officially observe the grand opening of the recently completed U.S. Federal Courthouse in Buffalo.

“Sitting on the edge of Niagara Square, this magnificent, modern center of justice is symbolic of Buffalo’s storied history and the great future ahead of us,” noted Congressman Brian Higgins. “We the people of Buffalo and Western New York believe in truth and fairness, we stand tall and come together during our trials and we love this community we call home. This is another good day for Western New York.”

A program held on May 3 included: Congressman Brian Higgins, Senator Charles Schumer, WNY U.S. District Court Chief Justice William M. Skretny, U.S. General Services Regional Administrator Denise Pease, U.S. Court of Appeals Second Circuit Chief Judge Dennis Jacobs, Court of Appeals Second Circuit Justice Richard Wesley, WNY U.S. District Court Judge Richard Arcara, Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and William Pedersen of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates.

The 10-story, 261,000-square-foot glass covered structure features a curved south wall, 690 punched window openings and triangular shaped element featuring the United States Constitution etched into glass. The building achieved the Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification under the U.S. Green Building Council standards and won the 2011 Award for Design and Manufacturing Excellence from the Architectural Precast Association. It will be home to the U.S. District Court, Court of Appeals, U.S. Probation, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Attorney and GSA.

For years the Buffalo Courthouse project sat at the top of a list of federal priority projects but failed to receive funding. After entering Congress, Higgins championed the project speaking directly with the Chair of the Transportation Committee, testifying before the House Budget Committee asking for inclusion of the remaining $46.7 million in funding needed for the Buffalo Courthouse in the Budget Resolution, and in 2007 pushing for passage of a resolution that specifically gave the General Services Administration (GSA) a green light to proceed on the $137 million project in Buffalo. Buffalo was the only courthouse funded that year.

In December Congressman Higgins introduced a bill, H.R. 3556, with the unanimous and bipartisan support of the New York House delegation naming the courthouse for Robert H. Jackson, the only Western New Yorker to serve as Supreme Court Justice. The bill has been approved by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee and will soon move to the Floor for a full vote of the House of Representatives. Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand.

Higgins Announces May Congress On Your Corner Schedule for Chautauqua County

2012-05-02T15:38:24Z

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced the May schedule for his Congress on Your Corner program in Chautauqua County, which provides local residents with access to the Congressman’s office through satellite office hours at locations in the district.

“Our office is always here to help and listen but since traveling to our district office can be difficult for some, we come to neighborhoods across the county to make direct access easy and convenient for residents,” said Congressman Higgins.

Below is the Congress on Your Corner Schedule for May:

Wednesday, May 17

9-11am – Lakewood Village Hall, 20 W. Summit Street
1-3pm – Mina, Findley Lake Community Center, 2883 North Road

Friday, May 18

9-11am – Westfield Village Hall, 23 Elm Street, Eason Hall North Room
1-3pm – Mayville Community Center – Sidney B. Compton Room

Tuesday, May 22

11:30 – Noon – Westfield YWCA, 58 South Portage Street

Friday, May 25

9-11am – Forestville Fire Hall, 18 Chestnut St., Municipal Building
11:30 –Noon – Sinclairville Fire Hall, 30 Naub Street
1-3pm – Silver Creek VFW, Main Street

Congress on Your Corner provides constituents the opportunity to talk directly with someone from Congressman Higgins’ office about issues related to Social Security, the Veteran’s Administration, passports, or other federal matters. Residents are encouraged to visit a satellite site to share their concerns, questions, and ideas with a representative from Congressman Higgins’ office.

Congressman Higgins’ office has held 700 Congress on Your Corner events over the last six years including approximately 135 outreach events 2011. Last November Higgins’ also featured a specialized Congress on Your Corner at the Dunkirk Senior Center featuring information on services for veterans and seniors. Over 140 new events are scheduled for 2012.