Sturdevant changes lawyers

SHERBURNE – A large green bus full of political supporters poured into Sherburne Saturday as part of a seven-county sweep of New York’s 51st Senatorial district in support of first-time candidate Don Barber.

Barber, D-Caroline, will be taking on incumbent Senator James Seward in the election in November. New York’s 51st District includes the towns of Lincklaen, Otselic, Smyrna, Sherburne, Columbus, Plymouth and North Norwich in Chenango County.

After delivering speeches in Greene, Schoharie, Herkimer and Otsego counties, Barber made a stop at the Howard Farm in Sherburne to address the Chenango County crowd before continuing to destinations in Cortland and Tompkins counties.

Town of Smyrna Supervisor James Bays introduced Barber. “Understanding local government, the needs and challenges rural residents face and the tremendous out-migration of our young people are bedrock concerns for all of us. I’m just so pleased that these are also bedrock concerns for our guest of honor,” he said.

Barber explained the key issues of his campaign, including economic development, environmental protection, health care reform, tax reform and education. After the rally, he said his biggest concern is the economy in upstate New York.

“A sustainable economy is the base for any business,” he said, adding that he hopes to create diverse, interdependent local economies focused on sustainability and the purchase of local products. The candidate also hopes to encourage green energy production.