I'm having a difficult day today - not feeling well - so I am simply passing this on (from my email) as is...
"Nancy --
A few weeks ago, President Obama asked you to share your personal story about how the health care crisis has affected you and the ones you love. Hundreds of thousands of stories poured in from every corner of the country. The President and I have read through many of them ourselves -- and now I'm encouraging you to do so as well.
Read these powerful, personal stories from people in your area and around the country...
And after you do, please forward this note on to as many people as you can.
For folks who don't yet understand why health care reform is such an urgent priority, these stories make the case far better than any statistics ever could.
For those who support health care reform but haven't yet found the time to join our campaign, these stories provide more motivation than any speech any politician could ever give.
So please read these stories, pass this note on to everyone in your address book, and help us show everyone in America why fixing our broken health care system is a necessity that just can't wait:
http://healthcare.barackobama.com/stories [Direct link available in sidebar>]
Thank you,
Vice President Joe Biden"
info@barackobama.com
Friday, June 26, 2009
Procol Harum Whiter Shade of Pale... Billy Joel Its All About Soul... You Tube Videos... Taking a Break...
["Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade Of Pale"; as submitted to You Tube by eaglerocktv
June 19, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8jJ1ORIOes]
["It's All About Soul (Billy Joel) Music Video"; as submitted to You Tube by tikitrav on
July 04, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBxkHRukM6M]
June 19, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8jJ1ORIOes]
["It's All About Soul (Billy Joel) Music Video"; as submitted to You Tube by tikitrav on
July 04, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBxkHRukM6M]
Thursday, June 25, 2009
KAPA Update... Email from FOPA Board Member Lisa Alt... Response... You Tube Videos on Cyberspace Laws... Privacy Issues... Email Privacy Issues
["The Law in Cyberspace"; as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6empekMld0]
["Privacy Issues";
as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJeuJtduwCw]
["Who Owns Your E-mail?"; as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUoP5WytUWA]
FROM My (Bob Smith and Nancy Smith)... Email...
From Lisa Alt, FOPA Board Member:
"Hi Commissioners,
I've attached copies of the lease agreement between
FOPA and the seven21 media center. This email contains
pages 1-6. The next email will have the remaining
pages. Sorry they got scanned upside down.
These are considered private documents and I am asking
that you not share this with anyone outside of the
Commission.
When is the meeting scheduled? Any word?
thanks,
Lisa L Alt"
My Response:
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2009 11:10 AM
From: jsmith37@hvc.rr.com
To: lisalalt@hotmail.com, cjfe@hvc.rr.com,
mercedesross@aol.com,
MsGeriB@aol.com, shelzanne@aol.com,
marchetti813@verizon.net,
oost48@yahoo.com,
MAYOR@CI.KINGSTON.NY.US,
corpcounsel@kingston-ny.gov
Subject: Re: copy of Lease agreement / From Nancy Smith
on behalf of KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith
"To FOPA Board Member, Lisa Alt,
You are well aware (Bob has been forthright about this
at meetings) that I handle the computer communications
- emails - etc.) for Bob. Thus, I will not download
these "private" attachments (Nor do I suggest that any
of the others [receiving] this email do so); but would
ask you, on Bob's behalf, to bring a copy of same
(as you said at the last meeting, copies can be made at
City Hall for no cost) to the next meeting - which is
a KAPA workshop that is being held on Tuesday, June
30th, 2009 - 7PM - Conference Room 1 - Kingston City Hall.
By the way, since you left the last KAPA meeting early,
when and where is the next FOPA meeting? I would like
to put the notice up on my blogsite, and I'm sure Bob
and the other KAPA Commissioners would appreciate the
information.
Nancy Smith"
["Privacy Issues";
as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJeuJtduwCw]
["Who Owns Your E-mail?"; as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUoP5WytUWA]
FROM My (Bob Smith and Nancy Smith)... Email...
From Lisa Alt, FOPA Board Member:
"Hi Commissioners,
I've attached copies of the lease agreement between
FOPA and the seven21 media center. This email contains
pages 1-6. The next email will have the remaining
pages. Sorry they got scanned upside down.
These are considered private documents and I am asking
that you not share this with anyone outside of the
Commission.
When is the meeting scheduled? Any word?
thanks,
Lisa L Alt"
My Response:
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2009 11:10 AM
From: jsmith37@hvc.rr.com
To: lisalalt@hotmail.com, cjfe@hvc.rr.com,
mercedesross@aol.com,
MsGeriB@aol.com, shelzanne@aol.com,
marchetti813@verizon.net,
oost48@yahoo.com,
MAYOR@CI.KINGSTON.NY.US,
corpcounsel@kingston-ny.gov
Subject: Re: copy of Lease agreement / From Nancy Smith
on behalf of KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith
"To FOPA Board Member, Lisa Alt,
You are well aware (Bob has been forthright about this
at meetings) that I handle the computer communications
- emails - etc.) for Bob. Thus, I will not download
these "private" attachments (Nor do I suggest that any
of the others [receiving] this email do so); but would
ask you, on Bob's behalf, to bring a copy of same
(as you said at the last meeting, copies can be made at
City Hall for no cost) to the next meeting - which is
a KAPA workshop that is being held on Tuesday, June
30th, 2009 - 7PM - Conference Room 1 - Kingston City Hall.
By the way, since you left the last KAPA meeting early,
when and where is the next FOPA meeting? I would like
to put the notice up on my blogsite, and I'm sure Bob
and the other KAPA Commissioners would appreciate the
information.
Nancy Smith"
KAPA Meeting Notes June 23 2009 Part II
[Temporary KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner Bob Smith at "Make-a-Difference Day"; Photo by N.S.]As committed to, here is the second round of meeting notes. Please scroll down for the intro, basics, lead in, part I...
KAPA Commissioner, Shelly Zimbler, gave a verbal secretary report (accepted) - starting with the fact that three KAPA Commissioners had resigned in the last few months, including Colin Evans, Tim Morrison and Lisa Alt [All three FOPA members / the entire FOPA Board...].
Shelly Zimbler also spoke about a meeting that had been attended by five KAPA Commissioners - with Kingston City Mayor James Sottille. It was reported that the Mayor had a voucher made out ($400) for KAPA - for the specific purpose of youth programming - and that Mayor Sottille indicated that he (through the formal process / City of Kingston) might contribute $5,000 to KAPA - if Nicky Worner (sp? / Town of Ulster) did the same. [The issue of matching funds or reasonable contributions (in regard to the smaller townships) from the other municipalities involved in KAPA has come up numerous times; I'm not going into the history of all of that...]
Shelly Zimbler indicated that Mayor Sottile had also offered to help access a truck and volunteers in order to help out during KAPA's projected move into a new facility [a contract (there are unanswered question regarding this...) has reputedly been signed - via FOPA - with what has been termed the 7-21 building or Ellenbogen (sp?) building (The former home of RNN?) - for use as a KAPA studio] ---
But in terms of all of the above --- Mayor James Sottile (here you have it :) had also asked for more financial [presumably regarding KAPA and FOPA] transparency.
[Friends of Public Access (FOPA) has subsequently - via Susan Holt (U.C. Executive Heins office) - been identified as a registered Non-Profit organization in the State of N.Y. However, no other information on FOPA was accessible (via a quick check by Ms. Holt) regarding FOPA; and, as has been noted previously, the members of FOPA (I have witnessed this and so have others) appear to evade answering direct questions (sometimes this is done by talking around the issue, sometimes by leaving a meeting early, etc.) regarding FOPA specifics; and at least one FOPA board member (see the next set of notes...) has made the claim that FOPA does not have to comply (?) with open meeting laws, etc.]
Commissioner and Temporary KAPA Chair, Bob Smith - gave the budget report for KAPA - which amounted to zip... as KAPA has no bank account or funds at its own disposal [Everything (in terms of money) is being handled [?????] by FOPA...]
[The last proposed (and admittedly idealistic) budget that the KAPA Commission has on file was made out by Bob Smith (acting as group treasurer / working in collusion with KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti) - with a copy submitted to (to the best of my knowlege) the members of the KAPA Commission, FOPA (if it was then in existance as such) members, the Safety and Cable Commission, the Kingston City Common Council members and Mayor Sottile.]
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti asked if FOPA could help out with the budget report - as KAPA needs to know where they stand - what funds they are working with - etc. There was (at this point) no answer given [Perhaps (?????) because this was to be addressed later?]
Shelly Zimbler noted that Henry Ellenbogen (sp?) - the newly appointed KAPA Commissioner (not present) was (he is associated with the contracted usage of the Ellenbogen building, etc.) willing to help train and certify people (on the equipment) - and that this was a "bonus."
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith's KAPA Treasurer report (KAPA balance on file: $0 / all funds are in a FOPA account, and KAPA reputedly needs "permission" and "approval" - to access these...) was accepted as given.
-------------------------------------------------
With that, I guess there is going to be a KAPA Meeting Notes Part III, so please stay tuned...
These meeting tend to go on (sometimes) for hours; there is rarely (hardly ever) a quorum present; very little ever seems to be agreed upon or accomplished during the meetings...; and it might appear to some other people (as it does to me...) that "all is not right" (in regard to the relationship between KAPA and FOPA...) "with the world")]
-----------------------------------------------
Once again, I refer you to a video clip [see producer specifics in the related post below and/or on the source blog] that covered a portion of this meeting...
This video clip, titled, "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event" is up on the "Kingston News Blog" at (please copy and paste this in the address bar):
http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Chaos and Confusion... KAPA and FOPA Times Ten... Passing on Info from Gov Paterson... Kudos and Comments... Some Local...
"On Tuesday, June 23, 2009, Manhattan Institute senior fellow and City Journal senior editor Steven Malanga was on WNBC News talking about how much the dysfunction and chaos in the NY State Senate i..."
["Steven Malanga on WNBC News"; as submitted to You Tube by ManhattanInstitute on June 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm-tZxNBuEU]
The following, from "Governor Paterson Continues to Call for Extraordinary Sessions of the Senate". has been copied and pasted (from my email) / edited slightly / and condensed (There were many other statements included in the original) for placement here:
"Dear New Yorker,
Yesterday afternoon, Governor Paterson again told the New York State Senate to stop playing games and get back to work on the people’s business.
“They have clearly forgotten who they serve," said Governor Paterson. "There are 19 million people in this state whose healthcare and education and public safety depend on our action. It’s time to get back to work. They should stay here every day – Saturdays, Sundays, July 4, and every other time, until they remember that they work for the people of New York and not for themselves...”
[---------------------------------------------------]
"Here is what other leaders statewide [bold print mine] have been saying in support of Governor Paterson’s call for continued extraordinary sessions of the New York State Senate:
Statement from Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for NY...
“The Partnership for New York City strongly supports Governor Paterson’s call for a special session of the State Legislature to deal with priority issues on a bipartisan basis. We urge the Republican and Democratic conferences to break the political deadlock and resume work on crucial legislation including Mayoral control of New York City public schools and the tax bills and extenders necessary for state and local government to function. Ongoing legislative inaction on these key issues threatens New York’s status as a business capital.”
Statement from Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director, New York Conference of Mayors...
“The time has come to put an end to the gridlock that has crippled the New York State Senate. Numerous bills are not being addressed which, if left to languish, will directly harm New York’s local governments and their taxpayers. The longer the stalemate goes on, the more uncertain local officials become about the stability of their budgets and the future of their communities. NYCOM commends Governor Paterson for his leadership in attempting to facilitate a resolution to this impasse. Now it is up to the members, as public servants, to settle their differences and do what they were elected to do – act in the best interest of all New Yorkers.”
Statement from Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez: “Amid all of the confusion and chaos in the State Senate, Governor Paterson has showed determined leadership and presented a clear message that we must set aside petty politics and put the needs of the people of New York first. He recognizes that through chaos can come opportunity, and we must use this moment to refocus on the issues that matter most to the people of New York...”
Statement from County Executive Mike Hein, County of Ulster: "My concerns are for the property tax payers of Ulster County and all of New York State. I want to commend Governor Paterson for calling the State Senate back into session. In these challenging times, it is essential the people’s work be completed and an important step is taken towards restoring public faith in State Government..."
Statement from Kenneth Adams, President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State... “Extension of the state’s Power for Jobs programs is crucial to hundreds of employers, and hundreds of thousands of workers across New York. This program helps energy-intensive businesses stay competitive, in the face of high in-state power costs. We appreciate Gov. David Paterson making this extension a priority. The Business Council urges the Senate to pass this extension before it sunsets...”
Statement from Tom Hoffay, Alderman, City of Kingston: “I am very supportive of Governor Patterson's decision to call a special session of the NYS Senate, in an attempt to end this dreadful stalemate in state government. The Governor's initiative is a welcome change from the State Senate's partisan and frivolous bickering over the past few weeks. With so many important and challenging decisions to be made, the Senate's inactivity has been shameful...”
Statement from President of NARAL Pro-Choice New York Kelli Conlin: “Yesterday, Governor David Paterson, long considered to be a supporter of women’s issues, announced that he ‘will call the Senate into session every day until the people's business is discharged.’
"NARAL Pro-Choice New York, on behalf of the women of our state, calls upon the Governor to live up to his commitment to these issues and place the Reproductive Health Act – landmark legislation to codify Roe v Wade in New York State – on the Senate’s agenda. We likewise call upon the Senators to live up to their commitments and affirm women’s health and rights by passing this bill.
"Before the coup threw the Senate into disarray, the Reproductive Health Act (which has the support of 75% of New Yorkers across all party lines and demographics) was scheduled for a June 10 Senate vote. NARAL Pro-Choice New York had commitments from 34 senators, across party lines, to pass a clean bill. But, as we all know, an ill-advised power play two days earlier derailed the Reproductive Health Act, along with the state’s other pending legislation.
"With this Extraordinary Session the Governor and the Senate now have an extraordinary window of opportunity to stand up for the women who helped elect them by standing up for women’s health and rights -- an issue that is most assuredly the ‘people’s business.’
"Let's make sure the Reproductive Health Act is not among the casualties of this fiasco...”
Statement from James M. Stewart, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region: "Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Governor Paterson to add Reproductive Health Act to the Senate’s agenda
"As a reproductive health care provider, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Gov. David Paterson and the New York State Senate to ensure the consistent delivery of women’s reproductive health care in New York State by advancing the Reproductive Health Act (RHA) this session. RHA will codify Roe v. Wade by updating New York’s 1970 reproductive health laws.
'The Governor has been clear in his stance that protecting women’s health is a priority for New York State,' said Jim Stewart, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region. 'We urge him to take action by putting the RHA on the Senate’s agenda this week, and we call on the Senate to pass it into law.'
"There is bi-partisan support for RHA, and the Senate’s derailment should not change that. 'Approximately three-quarters of NewYork voters support RHA—those same voters who elected our Senators to perform their jobs for the good of the people of New York State,' said Stewart. 'They haven’t done that in several weeks, and it is time they get back to work.'
"Nearly 85 percent of New York voters say they want the State to play an active role in protecting and strengthening reproductive health care. Passing the Reproductive Health Act answers this call."
Statement from Moises Perez, Executive Director Alianza Dominicana: "We commend and Support Governor David A. Paterson for his leadership in convening a special session to remind senate members to get back to work and also to remember that their mission is to serve the Tax payers of NYS.
Statement from Rosita M. Romero, Executive Director, Dominican Women Development Center: "We support Governor Paterson- It’s about time that senate members put their political differences aside and get busy addressing our real needs as taxpayers.”
Statement from Ron Thiele, Executive Director, Stanley Center for the Arts...
“As head of a not-for-profit that enjoys a productive partnership with New York State, I applaud your leadership as Governor to engage the legislature and its full capacity to serve its powerful partnership with every citizen and organization and business in New York State.”
Statement from Philip Banks, Jr., President, One Hundred Black Men, Inc...
“As President of One Hundred Black Men NY, I find it appalling that politics are ruling the day in the State Senate while the business of the New York goes unattended. I applaud Governor Paterson’s leadership in bringing our legislative body back to serving the interests of the people...”
Statement from Randy Wolken, President of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY): “On behalf of New York State's manufacturing community, it is essential for the Legislature to act before June 30 to extend the Power For Jobs and Energy Cost Saving Benefit Program. During such troubling economic times, it is critical to protect our businesses in any way possible. I would like to thank Governor Paterson for his recognition of the time sensitivity and critical nature of this program, and making the passage of the extension his number one priority...”
Statement from Nick Lugo, President of the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: "As business men and women we are in full support of our Governor, David A. Paterson, to restore Albany and give the people of NYS confidence that he understands that in these difficult times we need to stimulate the economy and get back to business. Legislators stop wasting taxpayers' money…"
... Statement from Walt Dixie, Founder, Alliance Network: "I am expressing the following comments regarding Governor Paterson’s decision to call a special session of the state senate today at 3:00 pm. In the midst of economic downturn, uncertainty, and an overwhelming need to build community capacity, it is utterly ridiculous that the NY State Senate has put the business and decisions that impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers on hold while they engage in a bitter and fruitless power struggle. I am happy that the governor has taken a stand and asserted his authority to bring the Senate to order. Governor Paterson deserves much credit for taking on the plethora of challenges that face New Yorkers head on. Thereby, I can only hope that this pointless bickering will be put aside and that the Senate will recognize that they were elected to work to enhance societal welfare and not to advance their own agenda.”
Statement from Lillian Rodriguez Lopez, President of the Hispanic Federation...
“New York State is at a critical juncture for many important budget and legislative actions. Governor Paterson’s goal to continue to move the state forward requires action by the State Senate following the example already set by Speaker Silver and the members of the Assembly. There are many issues that remain to be addressed in addition to those recently articulated by the Governor. “
Statement from Ron Soloway, Managing Director, UJA Federation of New York...
"We applaud Governor Paterson for calling a special session of the State Senate so that pending legislation benefiting the poor and vulnerable can be enacted. These include such crucial items as Timothy’s Law (mental health parity), an extension of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (special education), an extension of legislation that will insure that non profit organizations providing essential services on behalf of state government can have their contracts processed in a timely manner, and many others."
Statement from William Rapfogel, CEO of the Metropolitan Council of Jewish Poverty... "So much needs to be done to help the state grapple with the economic crisis that the Governor has demonstrated critical leadership in calling this special session."
Statement from Lucille McEwen, President, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI): “The Governor has exercised leadership and has called for the Special Session of the legislature. The Senators must take up the critical business of the people in these trying times. The business of the people has been delayed for too long and critical legislation that impacts all New Yorkers should be addressed. We may all suffer if order is not restored to the chaos in Albany...”
Statement from Zenaida Mendez, Founder National Dominican Women's Caucus...
“Someone said: ‘A leader has two important characteristics: first, s/he knows where she/he is going; second, s/he is able to persuade people to go with her.’ Governor Paterson today can count on the people of the State of New York to follow him re-engaging the men and women elected to represent us in doing what we are paying them with our tax dollar to do...”
- The Office of Governor Paterson"
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov)
New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224...
Copyright 2009 New York State. All rights reserved.
Respectfully Passed on by,
NS
["Steven Malanga on WNBC News"; as submitted to You Tube by ManhattanInstitute on June 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm-tZxNBuEU]
The following, from "Governor Paterson Continues to Call for Extraordinary Sessions of the Senate". has been copied and pasted (from my email) / edited slightly / and condensed (There were many other statements included in the original) for placement here:
"Dear New Yorker,
Yesterday afternoon, Governor Paterson again told the New York State Senate to stop playing games and get back to work on the people’s business.
“They have clearly forgotten who they serve," said Governor Paterson. "There are 19 million people in this state whose healthcare and education and public safety depend on our action. It’s time to get back to work. They should stay here every day – Saturdays, Sundays, July 4, and every other time, until they remember that they work for the people of New York and not for themselves...”
[---------------------------------------------------]
"Here is what other leaders statewide [bold print mine] have been saying in support of Governor Paterson’s call for continued extraordinary sessions of the New York State Senate:
Statement from Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for NY...
“The Partnership for New York City strongly supports Governor Paterson’s call for a special session of the State Legislature to deal with priority issues on a bipartisan basis. We urge the Republican and Democratic conferences to break the political deadlock and resume work on crucial legislation including Mayoral control of New York City public schools and the tax bills and extenders necessary for state and local government to function. Ongoing legislative inaction on these key issues threatens New York’s status as a business capital.”
Statement from Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director, New York Conference of Mayors...
“The time has come to put an end to the gridlock that has crippled the New York State Senate. Numerous bills are not being addressed which, if left to languish, will directly harm New York’s local governments and their taxpayers. The longer the stalemate goes on, the more uncertain local officials become about the stability of their budgets and the future of their communities. NYCOM commends Governor Paterson for his leadership in attempting to facilitate a resolution to this impasse. Now it is up to the members, as public servants, to settle their differences and do what they were elected to do – act in the best interest of all New Yorkers.”
Statement from Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez: “Amid all of the confusion and chaos in the State Senate, Governor Paterson has showed determined leadership and presented a clear message that we must set aside petty politics and put the needs of the people of New York first. He recognizes that through chaos can come opportunity, and we must use this moment to refocus on the issues that matter most to the people of New York...”
Statement from County Executive Mike Hein, County of Ulster: "My concerns are for the property tax payers of Ulster County and all of New York State. I want to commend Governor Paterson for calling the State Senate back into session. In these challenging times, it is essential the people’s work be completed and an important step is taken towards restoring public faith in State Government..."
Statement from Kenneth Adams, President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State... “Extension of the state’s Power for Jobs programs is crucial to hundreds of employers, and hundreds of thousands of workers across New York. This program helps energy-intensive businesses stay competitive, in the face of high in-state power costs. We appreciate Gov. David Paterson making this extension a priority. The Business Council urges the Senate to pass this extension before it sunsets...”
Statement from Tom Hoffay, Alderman, City of Kingston: “I am very supportive of Governor Patterson's decision to call a special session of the NYS Senate, in an attempt to end this dreadful stalemate in state government. The Governor's initiative is a welcome change from the State Senate's partisan and frivolous bickering over the past few weeks. With so many important and challenging decisions to be made, the Senate's inactivity has been shameful...”
Statement from President of NARAL Pro-Choice New York Kelli Conlin: “Yesterday, Governor David Paterson, long considered to be a supporter of women’s issues, announced that he ‘will call the Senate into session every day until the people's business is discharged.’
"NARAL Pro-Choice New York, on behalf of the women of our state, calls upon the Governor to live up to his commitment to these issues and place the Reproductive Health Act – landmark legislation to codify Roe v Wade in New York State – on the Senate’s agenda. We likewise call upon the Senators to live up to their commitments and affirm women’s health and rights by passing this bill.
"Before the coup threw the Senate into disarray, the Reproductive Health Act (which has the support of 75% of New Yorkers across all party lines and demographics) was scheduled for a June 10 Senate vote. NARAL Pro-Choice New York had commitments from 34 senators, across party lines, to pass a clean bill. But, as we all know, an ill-advised power play two days earlier derailed the Reproductive Health Act, along with the state’s other pending legislation.
"With this Extraordinary Session the Governor and the Senate now have an extraordinary window of opportunity to stand up for the women who helped elect them by standing up for women’s health and rights -- an issue that is most assuredly the ‘people’s business.’
"Let's make sure the Reproductive Health Act is not among the casualties of this fiasco...”
Statement from James M. Stewart, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region: "Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Governor Paterson to add Reproductive Health Act to the Senate’s agenda
"As a reproductive health care provider, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Gov. David Paterson and the New York State Senate to ensure the consistent delivery of women’s reproductive health care in New York State by advancing the Reproductive Health Act (RHA) this session. RHA will codify Roe v. Wade by updating New York’s 1970 reproductive health laws.
'The Governor has been clear in his stance that protecting women’s health is a priority for New York State,' said Jim Stewart, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region. 'We urge him to take action by putting the RHA on the Senate’s agenda this week, and we call on the Senate to pass it into law.'
"There is bi-partisan support for RHA, and the Senate’s derailment should not change that. 'Approximately three-quarters of NewYork voters support RHA—those same voters who elected our Senators to perform their jobs for the good of the people of New York State,' said Stewart. 'They haven’t done that in several weeks, and it is time they get back to work.'
"Nearly 85 percent of New York voters say they want the State to play an active role in protecting and strengthening reproductive health care. Passing the Reproductive Health Act answers this call."
Statement from Moises Perez, Executive Director Alianza Dominicana: "We commend and Support Governor David A. Paterson for his leadership in convening a special session to remind senate members to get back to work and also to remember that their mission is to serve the Tax payers of NYS.
Statement from Rosita M. Romero, Executive Director, Dominican Women Development Center: "We support Governor Paterson- It’s about time that senate members put their political differences aside and get busy addressing our real needs as taxpayers.”
Statement from Ron Thiele, Executive Director, Stanley Center for the Arts...
“As head of a not-for-profit that enjoys a productive partnership with New York State, I applaud your leadership as Governor to engage the legislature and its full capacity to serve its powerful partnership with every citizen and organization and business in New York State.”
Statement from Philip Banks, Jr., President, One Hundred Black Men, Inc...
“As President of One Hundred Black Men NY, I find it appalling that politics are ruling the day in the State Senate while the business of the New York goes unattended. I applaud Governor Paterson’s leadership in bringing our legislative body back to serving the interests of the people...”
Statement from Randy Wolken, President of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY): “On behalf of New York State's manufacturing community, it is essential for the Legislature to act before June 30 to extend the Power For Jobs and Energy Cost Saving Benefit Program. During such troubling economic times, it is critical to protect our businesses in any way possible. I would like to thank Governor Paterson for his recognition of the time sensitivity and critical nature of this program, and making the passage of the extension his number one priority...”
Statement from Nick Lugo, President of the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: "As business men and women we are in full support of our Governor, David A. Paterson, to restore Albany and give the people of NYS confidence that he understands that in these difficult times we need to stimulate the economy and get back to business. Legislators stop wasting taxpayers' money…"
... Statement from Walt Dixie, Founder, Alliance Network: "I am expressing the following comments regarding Governor Paterson’s decision to call a special session of the state senate today at 3:00 pm. In the midst of economic downturn, uncertainty, and an overwhelming need to build community capacity, it is utterly ridiculous that the NY State Senate has put the business and decisions that impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers on hold while they engage in a bitter and fruitless power struggle. I am happy that the governor has taken a stand and asserted his authority to bring the Senate to order. Governor Paterson deserves much credit for taking on the plethora of challenges that face New Yorkers head on. Thereby, I can only hope that this pointless bickering will be put aside and that the Senate will recognize that they were elected to work to enhance societal welfare and not to advance their own agenda.”
Statement from Lillian Rodriguez Lopez, President of the Hispanic Federation...
“New York State is at a critical juncture for many important budget and legislative actions. Governor Paterson’s goal to continue to move the state forward requires action by the State Senate following the example already set by Speaker Silver and the members of the Assembly. There are many issues that remain to be addressed in addition to those recently articulated by the Governor. “
Statement from Ron Soloway, Managing Director, UJA Federation of New York...
"We applaud Governor Paterson for calling a special session of the State Senate so that pending legislation benefiting the poor and vulnerable can be enacted. These include such crucial items as Timothy’s Law (mental health parity), an extension of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (special education), an extension of legislation that will insure that non profit organizations providing essential services on behalf of state government can have their contracts processed in a timely manner, and many others."
Statement from William Rapfogel, CEO of the Metropolitan Council of Jewish Poverty... "So much needs to be done to help the state grapple with the economic crisis that the Governor has demonstrated critical leadership in calling this special session."
Statement from Lucille McEwen, President, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI): “The Governor has exercised leadership and has called for the Special Session of the legislature. The Senators must take up the critical business of the people in these trying times. The business of the people has been delayed for too long and critical legislation that impacts all New Yorkers should be addressed. We may all suffer if order is not restored to the chaos in Albany...”
Statement from Zenaida Mendez, Founder National Dominican Women's Caucus...
“Someone said: ‘A leader has two important characteristics: first, s/he knows where she/he is going; second, s/he is able to persuade people to go with her.’ Governor Paterson today can count on the people of the State of New York to follow him re-engaging the men and women elected to represent us in doing what we are paying them with our tax dollar to do...”
- The Office of Governor Paterson"
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov)
New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224...
Copyright 2009 New York State. All rights reserved.
Respectfully Passed on by,
NS
Kingston Area Public Access Meeting Notes and Commentary Part 1... Sunshine... Leslie Gore... You Tube
["Sunshine Laws 2009"; as submitted to You Tube by OhioAttorneyGeneral on March 12, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvu7X7QZExw]
Due to time considerations (I still have one completed interview to post - and another pending) the Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting Notes will be published (along with my commentary, which will be provided in brackets) in sections. I am not the groups secretary; and it would appear, at this time, that no one is officially taking down (in writing) meeting notes - so this is my (facts intact, but with personal views attached) contribution.
Individuals Present at the June 23, 2009 KAPA Commission Meeting:
KAPA Commissioners Present:
Bob Smith, Temporary Chair and Commissioner
Shelly Zimbler, Commissioner
Joe Marchetti, Commissioner
Geri Breen, Commissioner
Mercedes Ross, Commissioner
[It was relayed, at the meeting that Mayor Sottile had appointed another KAPA (Representing the City of Kingston) Commissioner, Henry Ellenbogen (sp?); Mr. Ellenbogen was not present at the KAPA meeting)]
[With this addition, KAPA has a total of six active Commissioners, with what appears to be five (Is this correct?) open Commission slots - reflecting one opening each in the Town of Kingston, Town of Hurley, Town of Marbletown, Town of Rosendale and the Town of Ulster]
Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members Present:
Colin Evans, FOPA Director, Former KAPA Commissioner
Lisa Alt, FOPA Chairperson, Former KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner
Tim Morrison, FOPA Board Member, Former KAPA Commissioner
[This represents the entire FOPA Board, which alternately describes itself as a private enterprise - best run on "business" principals - as a non-for-profit incorporated entity - and as a public entity.]
Other Individuals Present:
Theresa Washington [City of Kingston resident that has expressed a desire to be on the Commission]
Ron M (sp?) [Former KAPA Commissioner]
Chris ---------- [Interested in getting involved in KAPA / Production Background]
Art Richters: Single Payer / Universal Health Care Advocate and Community Activist that previously had a very informative show on KAPA]
Clark Richter: Community Activist, Former KAPA Producer; Regular KAPA Commission Meeting Attendee; Fellow Blogger [Please see the associated video and write up on the "The Kingston News Blog" - "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event"; http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html ]
Myself (Nancy Smith, Concerned City of Kingston Citizen; Attendee at Numerous KAPA Meetings and City of Kingston Meetings; Community Activist; Blogger]
[Please forgive me if I missed anyone or misspelled any names; if there are corrections to be made please let me know!]
--------------------------------------------------------------
First Item on the Agenda: Open Speaking...
1. I read my prepared document (see threads below) and gave a copy to the KAPA Commissioners, FOPA Board Members and other individuals in attendance.
2. Lisa Alt [FOPA] contested the idea of a quorum change and/or change in bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal Laws regarding same... [Ms. Alt would not provide a direct answer, however, as to who wrote / approved the current quorum rules or bylaws - she would only state, generically, the "Commission."]
3. Tim Morrison [FOPA] also contested the idea of a quorum change and/or a change in the bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal laws regarding same. [Tim Morrison later (still in the meeting context) advised me (us?) to look up the "General Construction Law" - which he says dictates KAPA and/or FOPA rules regarding Bylaws and/or Quorums... I did so, and after wading through a number (ahem) of how to construct buildings and such laws... came across this:
-------------------------------------------------------
Insert: "GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW"
"§41. Quorum and majority
Whenever three or more public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are charged with any public duty to be performed or exercised by them jointly or as a board or similar body, a majority of the whole number of such persons or officers, at a meeting duly held at a time fixed by law, or by any by-law duly adopted by such board or body, or at any duly adjourned meeting of such meeting, or at any meeting duly held upon reasonable notice to all of them, shall constitute a quorum and not less than a majority of the whole number may perform and exercise such power, authority or duty. For the purpose of this provision the words “whole number” shall be construed to mean the total number which the board, commission, body or other group of persons or officers would have were there no vacancies and were none of the persons or officers disqualified from acting. As amended L.1948, c.320, eff. March 21, 1948. "
Added by Me / NS - Source: [doc] GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW. §41. Quorum and majority. Whenever three or more
public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are...
schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/EB063CC7-8CB9-4FB0-B071-9442F73F4C7D/35595/GENERALCONSTRUCTIONLAW.doc – Similar pages
Bold Print Mine
----------------------------------------------------------
That said [If KAPA and/or FOPA are subject to the provisions noted above - it would appear to be a bit (61 years) out-dated...] --- Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith noted that even with all of the Commissioners present at the meeting (barring the new appointee) - KAPA - under current reputed KAPA Bylaw and Quorum requirement restraints - could (This is with all current appointees present! See the problem here!) NOT claim a quorum, hold votes on any pertinent matters or move forward on any substantial motions!
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was reputedly no quorum at the last meeting either (and this appears to be the norm...) - which explains, in part, why very little appears to get accomplished at KAPA Commission meetings! [Bringing the potential issue of a needed revision of the KAPA bylaws and/or quorum requirements - as was put forth on Commissioner Bob Smiths' Agenda and on the paper I turned in (copy below) - as well.]
------------------------------------------------------------
With that, I will end for now (There are more notes to cover) - except to state that I just received a call from U.C. Executive Michael Heins office - and that I will be following up on this issue from various (research / contacts / etc.) angles.
This is, primarily, a City of Kingston (also involving the other municipalities involved in KAPA) issue. However, it may be that Legislative changes [regarding, at the very least, this outdated and apparently - for KAPA purposes - law] might be called for.
Stay tuned...
There is also the issue as to:
1. Whether or not FOPA has the right (as they claim) to dictate duties to KAPA Commissioners and handle all KAPA monies...
2. The question as to who signed a contract between KAPA and FOPA? (Is there a signed contract? None of the current KAPA Commissioners have apparently even seen such a contract as of last night...) between KAPA and FOPA?
3. Is FOPA (which appears - in my opinion, and echoed by others - to evade any direct questions - and does not provide copies of contracts, receipts, etc. to KAPA...) helping or hurting the stated goals of KAPA?
4. Where does this go from here? [Input, suggestions, legal advisers, folks associated with other Public Access stations, etc. are more than welcome to comment!]
---------------------------------------------------------
Just for fun...
["Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows (Re-make)"; as submitted to You Tube by Snookiebutt
August 30, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVQMNM4dRAg]
Thank You,
NS
Due to time considerations (I still have one completed interview to post - and another pending) the Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting Notes will be published (along with my commentary, which will be provided in brackets) in sections. I am not the groups secretary; and it would appear, at this time, that no one is officially taking down (in writing) meeting notes - so this is my (facts intact, but with personal views attached) contribution.
Individuals Present at the June 23, 2009 KAPA Commission Meeting:
KAPA Commissioners Present:
Bob Smith, Temporary Chair and Commissioner
Shelly Zimbler, Commissioner
Joe Marchetti, Commissioner
Geri Breen, Commissioner
Mercedes Ross, Commissioner
[It was relayed, at the meeting that Mayor Sottile had appointed another KAPA (Representing the City of Kingston) Commissioner, Henry Ellenbogen (sp?); Mr. Ellenbogen was not present at the KAPA meeting)]
[With this addition, KAPA has a total of six active Commissioners, with what appears to be five (Is this correct?) open Commission slots - reflecting one opening each in the Town of Kingston, Town of Hurley, Town of Marbletown, Town of Rosendale and the Town of Ulster]
Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members Present:
Colin Evans, FOPA Director, Former KAPA Commissioner
Lisa Alt, FOPA Chairperson, Former KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner
Tim Morrison, FOPA Board Member, Former KAPA Commissioner
[This represents the entire FOPA Board, which alternately describes itself as a private enterprise - best run on "business" principals - as a non-for-profit incorporated entity - and as a public entity.]
Other Individuals Present:
Theresa Washington [City of Kingston resident that has expressed a desire to be on the Commission]
Ron M (sp?) [Former KAPA Commissioner]
Chris ---------- [Interested in getting involved in KAPA / Production Background]
Art Richters: Single Payer / Universal Health Care Advocate and Community Activist that previously had a very informative show on KAPA]
Clark Richter: Community Activist, Former KAPA Producer; Regular KAPA Commission Meeting Attendee; Fellow Blogger [Please see the associated video and write up on the "The Kingston News Blog" - "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event"; http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html ]
Myself (Nancy Smith, Concerned City of Kingston Citizen; Attendee at Numerous KAPA Meetings and City of Kingston Meetings; Community Activist; Blogger]
[Please forgive me if I missed anyone or misspelled any names; if there are corrections to be made please let me know!]
--------------------------------------------------------------
First Item on the Agenda: Open Speaking...
1. I read my prepared document (see threads below) and gave a copy to the KAPA Commissioners, FOPA Board Members and other individuals in attendance.
2. Lisa Alt [FOPA] contested the idea of a quorum change and/or change in bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal Laws regarding same... [Ms. Alt would not provide a direct answer, however, as to who wrote / approved the current quorum rules or bylaws - she would only state, generically, the "Commission."]
3. Tim Morrison [FOPA] also contested the idea of a quorum change and/or a change in the bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal laws regarding same. [Tim Morrison later (still in the meeting context) advised me (us?) to look up the "General Construction Law" - which he says dictates KAPA and/or FOPA rules regarding Bylaws and/or Quorums... I did so, and after wading through a number (ahem) of how to construct buildings and such laws... came across this:
-------------------------------------------------------
Insert: "GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW"
"§41. Quorum and majority
Whenever three or more public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are charged with any public duty to be performed or exercised by them jointly or as a board or similar body, a majority of the whole number of such persons or officers, at a meeting duly held at a time fixed by law, or by any by-law duly adopted by such board or body, or at any duly adjourned meeting of such meeting, or at any meeting duly held upon reasonable notice to all of them, shall constitute a quorum and not less than a majority of the whole number may perform and exercise such power, authority or duty. For the purpose of this provision the words “whole number” shall be construed to mean the total number which the board, commission, body or other group of persons or officers would have were there no vacancies and were none of the persons or officers disqualified from acting. As amended L.1948, c.320, eff. March 21, 1948. "
Added by Me / NS - Source: [doc] GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW. §41. Quorum and majority. Whenever three or more
public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are...
schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/EB063CC7-8CB9-4FB0-B071-9442F73F4C7D/35595/GENERALCONSTRUCTIONLAW.doc – Similar pages
Bold Print Mine
----------------------------------------------------------
That said [If KAPA and/or FOPA are subject to the provisions noted above - it would appear to be a bit (61 years) out-dated...] --- Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith noted that even with all of the Commissioners present at the meeting (barring the new appointee) - KAPA - under current reputed KAPA Bylaw and Quorum requirement restraints - could (This is with all current appointees present! See the problem here!) NOT claim a quorum, hold votes on any pertinent matters or move forward on any substantial motions!
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was reputedly no quorum at the last meeting either (and this appears to be the norm...) - which explains, in part, why very little appears to get accomplished at KAPA Commission meetings! [Bringing the potential issue of a needed revision of the KAPA bylaws and/or quorum requirements - as was put forth on Commissioner Bob Smiths' Agenda and on the paper I turned in (copy below) - as well.]
------------------------------------------------------------
With that, I will end for now (There are more notes to cover) - except to state that I just received a call from U.C. Executive Michael Heins office - and that I will be following up on this issue from various (research / contacts / etc.) angles.
This is, primarily, a City of Kingston (also involving the other municipalities involved in KAPA) issue. However, it may be that Legislative changes [regarding, at the very least, this outdated and apparently - for KAPA purposes - law] might be called for.
Stay tuned...
There is also the issue as to:
1. Whether or not FOPA has the right (as they claim) to dictate duties to KAPA Commissioners and handle all KAPA monies...
2. The question as to who signed a contract between KAPA and FOPA? (Is there a signed contract? None of the current KAPA Commissioners have apparently even seen such a contract as of last night...) between KAPA and FOPA?
3. Is FOPA (which appears - in my opinion, and echoed by others - to evade any direct questions - and does not provide copies of contracts, receipts, etc. to KAPA...) helping or hurting the stated goals of KAPA?
4. Where does this go from here? [Input, suggestions, legal advisers, folks associated with other Public Access stations, etc. are more than welcome to comment!]
---------------------------------------------------------
Just for fun...
["Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows (Re-make)"; as submitted to You Tube by Snookiebutt
August 30, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVQMNM4dRAg]
Thank You,
NS
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Obama... Transparency in Goverment... You Tube... KAPA Meeting... FOPA... Document Turned In at Tonights Meeting
["Obama: Transparency Will Be Touchstone"; as submitted to You Tube by tpmtv on January 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72g7qmeP1dE]
Notes on tonight's Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) meeting are forthcoming. For tonight, I just want to post a copy (slightly modified for placement here) of the document that I provided to the KAPA Commissioners that were present - along with the Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members that were present. Copies of this, with an explanation, have also been emailed to the Kingston City Mayor and a number of other (relevant / City and County) individuals. Copies are pending for members of the Kingston City Common Council.
Kingston Area Public Access Commission Meeting Submission - June 23, 2009
Request for Documentation / Discussion / Possible Votes...
1. This is a request for specific Information regarding budget specifics for both Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) and Friends of Public Access (FOPA) - inclusive of an accounting of any and all monies received (with sources noted) within the last year (June 2008 - June 2009); all monies spent (inclusive of copies of receipts) within that same time span; all monies (revenue) securely and definitely pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; all monies tentatively pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; current account balance information (Where are these accounts located? Under what or who's name? Are two people required to sign on to these accounts?); and projected monetary needs (line by line specifics) for July 1, 2009 through July 1, 2010.
Associated:
A. What are the past and current mailing address for KAPA (If a P.O. Box is not currently active, could the KAPA Commission vote to establish one?]
B. What are the past and current mailing addresses for FOPA; when and where have FOPA meetings been held?; have FOPA meetings been open (Who has attended other than FOPA Board members?) to the public?]
2. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to formally change the Quorum requirements [defining a quorum as 1/2 of the officially confirmed KAPA Commission members that are present at any given Commission meeting + 1] --- and change the KAPA Bylaws to reflect this change?
3. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to dissolve the relationship (in all regards) that KAPA has with FOPA? [This would require that FOPA turn over any and all funds collected for KAPA to KAPA]
4. Could these matters [Around Documentation, Potential Quorum Vote and Potential Change in the KAPA Bylaws Vote] - in Particular - be handled in an pragmatic and expedient manner (all budgetary records and addresses, etc., should be on hand...)
5. Could KAPA (or an assistant) file for the Budget records, etc. that have been requested [if these are not submitted in a timely (2 Weeks?) manner] via the Freedom of Information Act --- and/or involve legal counsel (City of Kingston) - should such be necessary?
Concerned Citizen...
-----------------------------------------------------------
As I recently noted on Alderman Madsen's blog, the "hipbone is connected to the thighbone..."
It is also true, as the Feminists of the late 1960s and 1970s used to say - that "the personal is political."
------------------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
Notes on tonight's Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) meeting are forthcoming. For tonight, I just want to post a copy (slightly modified for placement here) of the document that I provided to the KAPA Commissioners that were present - along with the Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members that were present. Copies of this, with an explanation, have also been emailed to the Kingston City Mayor and a number of other (relevant / City and County) individuals. Copies are pending for members of the Kingston City Common Council.
Kingston Area Public Access Commission Meeting Submission - June 23, 2009
Request for Documentation / Discussion / Possible Votes...
1. This is a request for specific Information regarding budget specifics for both Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) and Friends of Public Access (FOPA) - inclusive of an accounting of any and all monies received (with sources noted) within the last year (June 2008 - June 2009); all monies spent (inclusive of copies of receipts) within that same time span; all monies (revenue) securely and definitely pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; all monies tentatively pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; current account balance information (Where are these accounts located? Under what or who's name? Are two people required to sign on to these accounts?); and projected monetary needs (line by line specifics) for July 1, 2009 through July 1, 2010.
Associated:
A. What are the past and current mailing address for KAPA (If a P.O. Box is not currently active, could the KAPA Commission vote to establish one?]
B. What are the past and current mailing addresses for FOPA; when and where have FOPA meetings been held?; have FOPA meetings been open (Who has attended other than FOPA Board members?) to the public?]
2. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to formally change the Quorum requirements [defining a quorum as 1/2 of the officially confirmed KAPA Commission members that are present at any given Commission meeting + 1] --- and change the KAPA Bylaws to reflect this change?
3. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to dissolve the relationship (in all regards) that KAPA has with FOPA? [This would require that FOPA turn over any and all funds collected for KAPA to KAPA]
4. Could these matters [Around Documentation, Potential Quorum Vote and Potential Change in the KAPA Bylaws Vote] - in Particular - be handled in an pragmatic and expedient manner (all budgetary records and addresses, etc., should be on hand...)
5. Could KAPA (or an assistant) file for the Budget records, etc. that have been requested [if these are not submitted in a timely (2 Weeks?) manner] via the Freedom of Information Act --- and/or involve legal counsel (City of Kingston) - should such be necessary?
Concerned Citizen...
-----------------------------------------------------------
As I recently noted on Alderman Madsen's blog, the "hipbone is connected to the thighbone..."
It is also true, as the Feminists of the late 1960s and 1970s used to say - that "the personal is political."
------------------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
President Obama.. Transparency.. Valerie Jarrett.. Open Government.. Roberts Rules of Order.. ByLaws.. Majority Voting.. More.. You Tube
The following videos (from You Tube) are for educational / informative purposes. Please remember that the KAPA Commission meeting (still on schedule to the best of my knowlege) is being held tonight at Kingston City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, at 7PM.
["10 Questions: Transparency"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on December 17, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_c0OtZ7PUw]
["Valerie Jarrett on Open Government"; as submitted to You Tube by OpenGov on May 20, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YflNzLEHRXg]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : How to Plan a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_d6rX2wWYY]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : Bylaws for a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2T7G0w9YbM]
["Majority Voting"; as submitted to You Tube by thedrvideo on February 16, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEdhjYWdOEo]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Crash Course 2009: Parliamentary Terms I: 3"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on February 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEo9IJlO940]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Deliberative Assembly and Its Rules I: 10"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on 2/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ko7tALwo6Y4]
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
["10 Questions: Transparency"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on December 17, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_c0OtZ7PUw]
["Valerie Jarrett on Open Government"; as submitted to You Tube by OpenGov on May 20, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YflNzLEHRXg]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : How to Plan a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_d6rX2wWYY]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : Bylaws for a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2T7G0w9YbM]
["Majority Voting"; as submitted to You Tube by thedrvideo on February 16, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEdhjYWdOEo]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Crash Course 2009: Parliamentary Terms I: 3"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on February 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEo9IJlO940]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Deliberative Assembly and Its Rules I: 10"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on 2/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ko7tALwo6Y4]
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
Monday, June 22, 2009
Kingston Area Public Access Television Meeting Agenda and Update... KAPA is Seeking Participants and Donors...
"The importance of public access in Florida..." is fundamentally the same (Please watch the following You Tube video!) as the importance of public access in Kingston, New York. Please help get it back in the green --- and back on the screen --- once AGAIN!
["Why TBCN is Important"; as submitted to You Tube by TampaBayCommunityNet on June 08, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWou04Ihf0]
In the Interest of Open Government and General Information --- So That Those Who Would Like To Attend / Get Involved (as Commissioners, Producers, Volunteers, Donors, Etc.) with Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Television (Channel 23) --- I am Submitting the Following Meeting Agenda [The meeting will be in Conference Room 1 at City Hall / 7PM Tomorrow Night). [Revised somewhat for inclusion here]
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting Agenda / 6/23/2009
1. Introductions and open speaking session (three minutes per person maximum)
2. KAPA Secretary Report:
3. KAPA Budget Report:
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have a written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting (This Thursday) and the next KAPA Commission Meeting.]
4. Update on Ellenbogen (sp?) building:
5. Volunteers / Suggestions / Appointments and/or Comments from:
A. City of Kingston
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen
KAPA Commissioner / Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
B. Town of Esopus
Mercedes Ross [Revised... OK?]
C. Town of Rosendale:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
D. Town of Kingston:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
E. Town of Hurley:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
F. Town of Ulster:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
G. Town of Marbletown:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions [Sorry, I missed this initially!]
9. Revision of Bylaws on the "Formalities of a Quorum" [See Attachment (Addendum)]
10. Reports from Friends of Public Access (FOPA)
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next KAPA Commission meeting and City of Kingston Safety and Cable Committee Meeting.]
B. FOPA Secretary Report
11. Clarification of Relationship between KAPA and FOPA...
12. Other Old Business?
13. New Business?
14. Closing Commentary / Suggestions (Open / Three Minute Per Person Maximum)
15. Next (Date / Time / Location) City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting:
Thursday, City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, 7PM
16. Next (Date / Time / Location) Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
17. Next (Date / Time / Location) Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
... XXX
--------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting [Attachment] Addendum
Revision of Bylaws --- 6/23/2009
"Formalities of Quorum"
Resolution #1-2009:
In the interest of common sense and logic the KAPA Commission defines (in its bylaws) a quorum as 1+ half of the appointed and existing (serving in a particular calender month) members of the KAPA Commission. This is to help in the reasonable course of decision-making and the administration of Public Access in a timely and efficient manner.
Be It Resolved:
A quorum for KAPA is to be half plus 1 of the appointed members of the Commission serving at that time.
For Example:
The City of Kingston needs 1 more appointee [Four Commissioners are currently serving / active]
The Town of Esopus has 1 appointee.
The Towns of Kingston, Hurley, Rosendale, Kingston and Marlboro currently have no active appointees.
Thus, there are currently Five active KAPA Commissioners --- and a quorum would equal half of that number (2) plus 1 (A total of Three)
"Quasi Government Commission" defined as:
1. Quasi: "as if, as it were... just as... in the sense of... in the manner of"
2. Government: "To administer... exercise authority over... direct or guide"
3. Commission: "Body of persons assigned to perform certain duties or tasks."
--------------------------------------------------------------
Respectfully posted (Please let me know if I have misspelled any names or made any other errors...) by,
NS
["Why TBCN is Important"; as submitted to You Tube by TampaBayCommunityNet on June 08, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWou04Ihf0]
In the Interest of Open Government and General Information --- So That Those Who Would Like To Attend / Get Involved (as Commissioners, Producers, Volunteers, Donors, Etc.) with Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Television (Channel 23) --- I am Submitting the Following Meeting Agenda [The meeting will be in Conference Room 1 at City Hall / 7PM Tomorrow Night). [Revised somewhat for inclusion here]
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting Agenda / 6/23/2009
1. Introductions and open speaking session (three minutes per person maximum)
2. KAPA Secretary Report:
3. KAPA Budget Report:
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have a written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting (This Thursday) and the next KAPA Commission Meeting.]
4. Update on Ellenbogen (sp?) building:
5. Volunteers / Suggestions / Appointments and/or Comments from:
A. City of Kingston
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen
KAPA Commissioner / Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
B. Town of Esopus
Mercedes Ross [Revised... OK?]
C. Town of Rosendale:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
D. Town of Kingston:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
E. Town of Hurley:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
F. Town of Ulster:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
G. Town of Marbletown:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions [Sorry, I missed this initially!]
9. Revision of Bylaws on the "Formalities of a Quorum" [See Attachment (Addendum)]
10. Reports from Friends of Public Access (FOPA)
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next KAPA Commission meeting and City of Kingston Safety and Cable Committee Meeting.]
B. FOPA Secretary Report
11. Clarification of Relationship between KAPA and FOPA...
12. Other Old Business?
13. New Business?
14. Closing Commentary / Suggestions (Open / Three Minute Per Person Maximum)
15. Next (Date / Time / Location) City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting:
Thursday, City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, 7PM
16. Next (Date / Time / Location) Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
17. Next (Date / Time / Location) Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
... XXX
--------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting [Attachment] Addendum
Revision of Bylaws --- 6/23/2009
"Formalities of Quorum"
Resolution #1-2009:
In the interest of common sense and logic the KAPA Commission defines (in its bylaws) a quorum as 1+ half of the appointed and existing (serving in a particular calender month) members of the KAPA Commission. This is to help in the reasonable course of decision-making and the administration of Public Access in a timely and efficient manner.
Be It Resolved:
A quorum for KAPA is to be half plus 1 of the appointed members of the Commission serving at that time.
For Example:
The City of Kingston needs 1 more appointee [Four Commissioners are currently serving / active]
The Town of Esopus has 1 appointee.
The Towns of Kingston, Hurley, Rosendale, Kingston and Marlboro currently have no active appointees.
Thus, there are currently Five active KAPA Commissioners --- and a quorum would equal half of that number (2) plus 1 (A total of Three)
"Quasi Government Commission" defined as:
1. Quasi: "as if, as it were... just as... in the sense of... in the manner of"
2. Government: "To administer... exercise authority over... direct or guide"
3. Commission: "Body of persons assigned to perform certain duties or tasks."
--------------------------------------------------------------
Respectfully posted (Please let me know if I have misspelled any names or made any other errors...) by,
NS
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Freewrite... Cats in the Cradle... You Tube... Video from The White House Blog and You Tube... President Barack Obama... Responsible Fatherhood
Most of us are familiar with the following song - and life is so very, very busy and complex that one sometimes wonders - "how can I possibly be 'all things to all people?'"
The answer - the hard answer - is, of course, that we can't...
But making time for our children - in particular, during their young and vulnerable years - should (whenever humanly possible) be on the top of our priority list...
Personally - I think implementing a 30-hour work week (considered full-time with benefits) would be helpful in this regard - now that life is sooooooo complex - with so many professionals needing to stay on top of things (during their alleged "off" time) in the computer world (the news, Facebook, Twitter, blogs and such...) -
Which might mean (as a side benefit) more F/T (30 hr. work weeks) jobs for more people!
Whatever the case - parenting [there are also childcare (Affordable? Quality?) considerations; the need for fun and affordable family outlets, etc.) is a serious, serious, serious - and too often seriously undervalued (in regards to mothers and fathers) F/T job...
Which might sound a little "tacky" - put that way - to some...
But a wise man once said, "Love is Work"...
And mistakes, once made (I know something about this...) can-not always (no matter how hard one might try) be undone.
How many of us think... "I wish I knew then... what I know now?"
How can we encourage the next generation (this could be a personal and political question - regarding family-friendly legislation and policies...) to avoid the mistakes that we (Please remember the tale about "glass houses"...) have made?
["Harry Chapin - Cats in the cradle and silver spoon music video"; as submitted to You Tube by Rakin2008 on October 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un2EfjEJAOA]
From the White House Blog:
["The White House - Blog Post - Responsible Fatherhood"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVJXrJhzrcQ&feature=player_embedded]
Happy Fathers Day to All!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
The answer - the hard answer - is, of course, that we can't...
But making time for our children - in particular, during their young and vulnerable years - should (whenever humanly possible) be on the top of our priority list...
Personally - I think implementing a 30-hour work week (considered full-time with benefits) would be helpful in this regard - now that life is sooooooo complex - with so many professionals needing to stay on top of things (during their alleged "off" time) in the computer world (the news, Facebook, Twitter, blogs and such...) -
Which might mean (as a side benefit) more F/T (30 hr. work weeks) jobs for more people!
Whatever the case - parenting [there are also childcare (Affordable? Quality?) considerations; the need for fun and affordable family outlets, etc.) is a serious, serious, serious - and too often seriously undervalued (in regards to mothers and fathers) F/T job...
Which might sound a little "tacky" - put that way - to some...
But a wise man once said, "Love is Work"...
And mistakes, once made (I know something about this...) can-not always (no matter how hard one might try) be undone.
How many of us think... "I wish I knew then... what I know now?"
How can we encourage the next generation (this could be a personal and political question - regarding family-friendly legislation and policies...) to avoid the mistakes that we (Please remember the tale about "glass houses"...) have made?
["Harry Chapin - Cats in the cradle and silver spoon music video"; as submitted to You Tube by Rakin2008 on October 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un2EfjEJAOA]
From the White House Blog:
["The White House - Blog Post - Responsible Fatherhood"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVJXrJhzrcQ&feature=player_embedded]
Happy Fathers Day to All!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
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