New York State Senator Fred Akshar begins 2018 with an appearance on the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up.

The Republican starts the January 7th program by talking about the recent legislative vote to accept funding to open a drug detox facility at the former Broome Developmental Center in the Town of Dickinson and his goals to now move on to secure more funding for long-term treatment and rehabilitation programs for addicts who have completed detox.

Another big component of the program is Akshar's discussion of funding for youth programs, including "Akshar's Allstars" and Agriculture in the Classroom.  A lighter moment comes as the Afton native is teased about playing with a goat at one of the schools.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Sunday at 6 am on 99.1 The Whale.

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