Seeking a better way to deal with international issues that have plagued the U.S. border with Canada of late, state senators in New York have formed an international border caucus that includes 11 Americans and five Canadians.

"Over the past year we have seen an increase in problems along our shared border stemming from US efforts to ‘tax' Canadian citizens, an American fisherman pulled over by Canadian authorities, and concerns that tightened security are frightening away people crossing the border to visit our two great nations,” said state Sen. Patricia A. Ritchie, a co-chair of the committee.

The caucus includes: Co-Chairs Ritchie and Joseph A. Griffo, and New York state Sens James Alesi, Patrick M. Gallivan, Mark Grisanti, Timothy Kennedy, Betty O'C. Little, George D. Maziarz, Michael F. Nozzolio, David J. Valesky and Catharine M. Young.

Canadian members include: Canadian Co-Chair Bob Runciman and Canadian representatives Gord Brown, Steve Clark, Guy Lauzon, and Ted Hsu.

James E. Reagen, spokesman for Mrs. Ritchie, said that the group will meet once or twice a year, and the first date hasn't yet been worked out. A news conference with Mrs. Ritchie, Mr. Griffo and Mr. Runciman is scheduled for Friday at the Frederic Remington Art Museum, Ogdensburg.

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