Ithaca, N.Y. – U.S. Senator Kirsten
Gillibrand today joined community and business leaders in Ithaca for an
agriculture and economic development roundtable. The group discussed the latest
economic development efforts in the region and how they can work together to
grow and strengthen the economy for Ithaca, and all of New York.
“Creating good-paying jobs and getting our economy turned around is my number
one priority,” Senator Gillibrand said. “But taking on our challenges can’t be
done in Washington alone. It’s going to
take a comprehensive effort from the entire Ithaca community. From local
community and business leaders, to local officials and everyday families right
here in Ithaca, we all have a part in getting Ithaca, and all of New York back
on track.”
Participating in today’s roundtable with Senator Gillibrand were Ithaca Mayor
Carolyn Peterson, Ithaca College President Tom Rochon, Helene Dillard of the
Cornell Cooperative Extension, Michael Stamm of Tompkins County Area
Development, Michael Koplinka-Loehr, Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature and
others representing local community and economic development groups.
As
a working mother of two young children, Senator Gillibrand understands what
families and businesses are up against in these challenging economic times.
That’s why she is committed to working closely with local communities and
leaders to reinvigorate local economies, while putting all of New York on a
path for long-term, sustainable economic growth.
Earlier this year, Senator Gillibrand helped pass President Obama’s
economic recovery plan – which could help save and create more than 215,000
jobs in New York State alone, while laying the foundation for long-term
economic strength by making critical investments in infrastructure, renewable
energy, health care and education to prepare New York’s students for the jobs
of the future.