News from Assemblyman 130th Assembly District JOSEPH A. ERRIGO   For immediate release: June 6th, 2005 Contact: Adam Peterson (585) 334-5210 District Office: 3045 East Henrietta Rd., Henrietta, NY  14467 Albany Office: Rm 427 LOB, Albany, NY  12248

COLUMN FOR THE WEEK OF 6/06/05 BY ASSEMBLYMAN JOE ERRIGO PRESIDENT SPEAKS ON SOCIAL SECURITY, BRINGS RENEWED HOPE        President George W. Bush recently visited our region to promote his new Social Security plan. He brought with him a renewed hope for our area in a show of support that only a personal visit could give.      Reforming Social Security is one of the most controversial issues in the country. The logistics of trying to fix a broken system are astounding. How can one person change a benefit system that millions of people use and rely on, a system that so many people have planned their retirements around?      The president believes Social Security reform should protect and ensure benefits for low-income workers and people who depend on it the most. It's apparent the current system will soon help no one. There is no question that reform is needed.      Equally important to the purpose of the president's visit was the actual visit. By joining us here, the president shows us he understands and acknowledges our value as citizens of this great country. We represent the very ideals and values that we elect him to enforce and protect.      I believe the president's visit also stresses Western New York's resurgence. Our economy is beginning to grow, our job growth is the best in years, the region's unemployment rate has lowered, crime is down and our overall situation is quickly improving.      Perhaps, by working together, by sharing our concerns and comments we can come together and reform Social Security.      If you have any questions or concerns, as always, feel free to contact me by phone at (585) 334-5210 or via e-mail at errigoj@assembly.state.ny.us.   -30-