"I learned a number of valuable lessons from my late husband Jake. One of the most important is this: when opportunity knocks at the door, let it in.

Yesterday, the Assembly passed legislation to settle the Akwesasne Mohawk land claim and pave the way for a casino in Sullivan County. Today, I am working with the governor’s office to establish a community protection fund. But tomorrow, the dream of a new casino and its economic benefits to Sullivan County will be lost if the state Senate fails to act.

The Senate needs to come together and do what’s best for Sullivan, Franklin and St. Lawrence counties.

The time for the Senate to act is now so we can put at least one shovel in the ground, and start bringing home the benefits of a Sullivan County casino. Jake always said put the needs of people first – so let’s get the job done."