Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. recently announced he has created a program dedicated to honoring our U.S. Military servicemen and women. According to Fuschillo, "Certificates of Appreciation" will allow area residents who know someone currently serving in the military to request a certificate that bears that person's name and display them in an effort to show support for their patriotism and heroism.

"The men and women who serve in our military forces fight everyday to protect the freedoms and liberties we cherish as Americans," said Fuschillo. "These certificates will allow family members and citizens to show their appreciation for our distinguished armed forces and the great work they are doing on our behalf. Their courage and valor in these tough times is truly a mark of distinction that makes us all very proud."

The certificates can be accessed by contacting Senator Fuschillo's office at 546-4100, and providing the appropriate information. Fuschillo will send a personalized "Certificate of Appreciation" that can be displayed to honor someone you know currently serving in our military.

Senator Fuschillo, announced recently that the Senate has passed a bill that he co-sponsored that would strengthen the punishments for parole violators. According to the senator, a person who commits a felony while on parole would have to serve out the maximum sentence for the original felony and the minimum for the new felony prior to being eligible for parole again.

"Parolees are privileged by an early release, and abuse of that privilege should be dealt with in a serious fashion," Fuschillo said. "This will hopefully serve to keep threats to the community's well-being off the streets."

Effective this year, college tuition expenses are 75 percent deductible as a result of legislation sponsored by Senator Fuschillo. The legislation was enacted in 2001 and is being phased in over a four-year period. Beginning next year, college tuition expenses will be 100 percent deductible as the 'phasing in' process is completed. According to Fuschillo, New York State is the first state in the nation to make college tuition fully tax deductible (up to $10,000).

In addition to the college tuition deductibles, Fuschillo noted that the standard deduction for a married couple filing a joint tax return has also increased this year to $14,600, up $400 from a year ago. Taxpayers are also allowed a credit for the removal, closure, and installation of a residential fuel/oil storage tank used to provide heating for single-to-four-family residences. The removal, closure, and/or installation each provide for a $250 deductible.

"During this time of year, it is important for residents to realize what they can deduct," Fuschillo said. For further information regarding tax deductions, contact Senator Fuschillo at 546-4100.