“At this special time of year when we come together to celebrate Christmas we should also reflect on the fact that we have so much to be thankful for. Stocking stuffers and gifts piled high under Christmas trees are exciting, but our health and the health and happiness of our loved ones are the ultimate gifts any of us could receive.

Let’s also remember the many individuals in our communities who are in need of a helping hand. Consider the opportunity for charity giving this holiday season to help those less fortunate.

“As this year’s Festival of Lights commences, I’d like to wish all of those observing the annual Jewish holiday a happy and safe Hanukkah. Over the course of the next eight days families of Jewish faith in households around the world will light menorah candles as a traditional expression of gratitude for a victory won more than 2,000 years ago. During this time of reflection we can all renew our collective determination to overcome challenging obstacles and be reminded that positive change can and will come.”

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today released a report, “Preserving and Expanding Affordable Housing Opportunities,” that summarizes his recent series of audits of affordable housing programs and highlights recommendations for improving New York’s well-intentioned efforts.

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has experienced staff cuts and constrained funding since 2003 while its responsibilities have grown, according to a report released today by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

New York State Comptroller Thomas P.

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced his office completed audits of the Baldwinsville Public Library, City of Lockport, the Town of Saranac and West Corners Fire Department.

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced today the following audits have been issued:

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli urged New Yorkers to read the fine print on gift cards this holiday season for details about fees and expiration dates. Unused gift cards issued by New York corporations are required to be turned over to the Comptroller's office as abandoned property after five years of dormancy. In State Fiscal Year 2013-2014, $5.8 million from gift cards was turned over to the state.

New York State Comptroller Thomas P.

Springport Town Clerk Deborah Waldron pleaded guilty Wednesday in Aurelius Town Court to official misconduct and attempted computer trespass, and agreed to resign for her attempts to boost her state retirement benefits by using a town computer, State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli said.