Annual Summer Boater's Safety Press Conference Held in…

Annual Summer Boater's Safety Press Conference Held in Sylvan Beach Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, members of the Sheriff's Office Marine Patrol, Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente, NYS Police Major Philip Rougieux, Sylvan Beach Mayor Greg Horan, and Chief Rick Johnson of the Sylvan Beach Fire Department held a press conference this morning, just ahead of the Memorial Day Weekend to address boater safety, traffic safety, beach safety & local law issues, along with summer tourism events. The press conference was held at the emergency wall on the canal adjacent to the Route 13 bridge. Sheriff Maciol spoke about various boater safety issues including the importance of wearing life jackets, the zero tolerance position they take on those who operate boats while intoxicated, and the requirements regarding those who are mandated to take boater safety courses. New York State Police Major Philip Rougieux talked about the increased summer patrols that will be out keeping our roadways safe, with emphasis on DWI enforcement. "With summer fast approaching, our waterways will soon be bustling with activity from boaters who flock to Oneida County to enjoy our vast natural beauty and recreational opportunities," said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. "These visitors help drive our tourism economy by staying in our hotels, eating in our restaurants, shopping in our businesses and purchasing fuel and equipment for their boats. While we welcome this opportunity to showcase our area, safety must always be the top priority. I urge everyone using our waterways to be responsible in their recreation, and I thank Sheriff Maciol and all of the law enforcement agencies and first responders for the excellent job they do to keep people safe." Sylvan Beach Mayor Greg Horan spoke about several upcoming g fun, family events planned in Sylvan Beach over the next several weeks and Fire Chief Rick Johnson spoke about additional boater safety issues and stressed the importance of knowing the waterway and the weather forecast before you head out on the lake. Attached Photo From Left to Right: OCSO Chief Deputy Jon Owens, NYS Police Major Philip Rougieux, Sheriff Robert Maciol, OCSO Deputy Robert Snider, OCSO County Executive Anthony Picente, OCSO Sgt. Scott Kahl, Undersheriff Joe Lisi, OCSO Lt. Ronald Townsend, Sylvan Beach Mayor Greg Horan, and Sylvan Beach Fire Chief Rick Johnson.