["Alice Walker reads Sojourner Truth"; as submitted to You Tube by arnove on 1/28/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsjdLL3MrKk]
A few things...
1. We often read about Sojournor Truth and celebrate her as part of our local history, so it was really neat to come upon the above video --- which is presented here NOT because I agree with every word spoken (a rendition by Alice Walker) --- but because she dared (oh yes indeed...) to speak!
2. Happy Independence Day!
3. I wanted to let folks know that Ward 5 residents are welcome to send me their concerns for posting here. I generally attend City Council meetings - and when I do I could pass some of these concerns on.
There is some Ward specific information posted down below already - and there are some videos posted that are (I believe) pertinent to some resident concerns regarding the proliferation (or so it seems) of "scary" dogs (Does this relate to a perceived need for protection? Gang activity?... Are dogs that are trained to intimidate and/or attack the new "weapon?") in the City.
These concerns (noted above) have been expressed by some folks on the KingstonCitizens.org group - and by myself and a couple of my neighbors in Ward 5 as well...
On top of that, it looks as if there is going to be a Ward 5 meeting (if all goes well) at Monkey Joes sometime in August. Are folks up for that? Do you think a Monday - Wed - or Friday (I'm thinking around 6:30PM - and trying to avoid dates when I might be at other meetings...) works best?
Jen Fuentes is the person that approached me about this meeting - and it needs to fit into her schedule (She would be the main speaker / wants to hear your concerns) as well.
--------------------------------------------
4. I wanted to let you know that there are two articles in today's "Daily Freeman" that are worth a serious "look-see"...
a. "Democracy on a Curve" (Will Durst; P. A4) [Can this guy write or what?]
b. "Are Democrats Ready for Their Big Opportunity" (Bill Press; Tribune Media Services; P. A4) [Al Franken is in... a shift in the Senate has occurred...]
---------------------------------------------
All of that said...
If you want me to post any of your Ward 5 concerns [please pass this on to folks that don't have computers and get their input as well] - you can either post them here - and/or send me an email at wingedbirdinflight@live.com
I will pull these (please keep them general, no personal attacks will be published) together and I will (as they come in) put them in a list in the sidebar >>>
Truth, Peace, Love and Humane Justice,
N.S.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Dog Days in the City of Kingston... Response to Postings on KingstonCitizens.org... You Tube Videos
After reading some of the postings from KingstonCitizens.org - which added to some concerns that I have already - I decided to post (for informational purposes) the following:
["My Weapon Is a Dog, Part-1/6"; as submitted to You Tube by TheDocumentaries on June 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BvtnEDjW7I]
["My Weapon Is a Dog, Part-2/6"; as submitted by TheDocumentaries
on June 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meCkO_MAi-0]
The following may not happen often (I don't know what the stats are) - but I'd say once is enough is too much...
["Little boy, pit bull, 1000 stitches"; as submitted to You Tube by zupf on April 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csvVg-c9Vtg]
NS
["My Weapon Is a Dog, Part-1/6"; as submitted to You Tube by TheDocumentaries on June 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BvtnEDjW7I]
["My Weapon Is a Dog, Part-2/6"; as submitted by TheDocumentaries
on June 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meCkO_MAi-0]
The following may not happen often (I don't know what the stats are) - but I'd say once is enough is too much...
["Little boy, pit bull, 1000 stitches"; as submitted to You Tube by zupf on April 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csvVg-c9Vtg]
NS
Moving Out in Droves... Thoughts...
[Photo by BF / Utilized with Permission]I'm not doing real well of late; and I apologize, openly, for any meetings I have missed (Ms. Provenzano) - commitments (Kathy / City of Kingston) I have had to cancel - and phone calls (Cahills office) that have not been returned.
I do what I can where I can, but the stress of the current socio-economic situation - the multitude of perceived (or real) threats that I (I'm not alone in this) deal with - and the weight of "What is the use?" all huddle together and get the best of me sometimes...
In yesterdays and todays "Daily Freeman" there are articles (starting on the front page of both) regarding people leaving the City of Kingston (and some other smaller cities, as well?) at what are apparently uncomfortably high rates.
Why might that be?
Of course, the property tax increase is at issue...
The fact that there is very little employment (that pays enough to sustain an apartment, mortgage, food, utilities, insurance, etc.) here is at issue...
The fact that the crime rate once again "appears" to be climbing (Is it going to be worse this Summer?) is a likely issue...
Housing prices, etc., etc. are undoubtedly issues...
But I think there is more to it even than that...
Including (my opinion):
Some unaddressed or inadequately addressed (here and there) corruption issues; and...
A refusal (I've been saying this for at least two years now...) to examine (and address) the root causes of the problems (You can't just chase problems from neighborhood to neighborhood and expect things to get better... You can't just toss out candy at a parade...) that exist.
Along with the fact that newcomers into the quasi-political arena in the City of Kingston appear to be operating on enthusiasm and best guesses - rather than informed knowledge --- a lot of the time; as apparently, although Kingston has more than its share of lawyers (including its own Corporate Council) --- not one of them is available to answer (for no fee) pertinent (whatever the situation may be) questions...
"We the people" - to some degree or another - generally know what the "US Constitution" and "Bill of Rights" have to say.... But I think a lot of us are wondering where and when these are really being honored?????
For example, what exactly is our Human Rights Commission doing? [You are welcome to comment here!] Maybe the FOPA and KAPA issue is one that those Commissioners (What do they do?) should check out?
There are some brilliant people (although some of these have left, as well...) in this City - many of whom skirt the outskirts of politics either by choice and/or by someone else's (a best guess...) design (?)
What happened to the spirit of this City - the integrity of this City?
Has it been taxed out and/or snuffed out?
Frankly, I'm feeling more than a little of both - and considering a move (I'm sure this will make some of the "snuffers" happy) - out of town, sight and mind - myself.
To someplace where one can walk out the door without the fear of being mugged or raped or attacked by someone's 200 pound sharp toothed big-jawed "pet"...
To someplace where one can sit in ones yard without the fear of ditto...
To someplace where dread doesn't hide in the coffee grounds, making your first sip of the day bitter...
As you choke down the latest news of chaos here - chaos there - chaos everywhere...
I have always (in my way, which is generally through writing) been an advocate for the poor (which is bound up in my own history) --- but it "does" seem like this City has gone too far in coddling / providing for (in the sense of ENABLING...) the poor
--- and has not gone nearly far enough in recognizing and responding to the issues of its working class citizens, middle class citizens and aging population.
As far as the youth go?
Yes, there are some great - fun and healthy - programs out there for them - and I applaud these efforts! But would one actually expect them to stay here? Do you think parents and grandparents - many of whom now stand to loose everything they have worked for - are encouraging their youth to stay here?
One adult child that I have left the City of Kingston a couple of years ago - and he is the ONLY adult child that I have who was able to find a good paying job - where he is treated with respect - that he actually enjoys!
Are the other two children any less intelligent? NO. Are they hard workers (each in their own way)? Absolutely. Can they get a solid grip (meaning a "living wage") here in the City of Kingston? Absolutely not.
Is some of this an issue throughout New York State? My oldest brother says yes (and has a whole lot more, unprintable, to say on the topic...).
Why is that?
Why is it that Texas did so well under Bush/Cheney... and New York (am I misreading things here, do you think?) really got the "shaft?"
It is my opinion that it will take time - if even possible - to recover from the mess left by the last Presidential Administration...
And a whole lot of effort --- one every one's part --- as well.
Can we - are we able to - stand up to all of this (stress on top of stress on top of stress) without cracking? I'm starting to SERIOUSLY wonder...
I once read something to the effect that if you put a frog in warm water and turn up the heat ever so slowly... the frog will not even know that it is being boiled to death...
Think about it.
Find a way to turn down the heat.
Look for root causes.
Weed the garden.
Nurture what is healthy.
After all, if you don't take care from the very start, a garden (at least in the sense that one has planned it out) will not grow - or provide the nurturing environment intended...
Truth, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Pixar... For the birds... You Tube
["For the birds"; PIXAR; as submitted to You Tube by alej223 on 1/12/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJzQiemCIuY]
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Workshop... Heart - Even It Up... You Tube
Public Notice:
There is a Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Workshop tonight (Open to the Public): Tuesday, June 30 - 7PM - Conference Room 1 - Kingston City Hall
Just for fun:
["Heart - Even It Up (HQ)"; as submitted to You Tube by hijinx078
on October 10, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpSsr6C1TIY]
NS
There is a Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Workshop tonight (Open to the Public): Tuesday, June 30 - 7PM - Conference Room 1 - Kingston City Hall
Just for fun:
["Heart - Even It Up (HQ)"; as submitted to You Tube by hijinx078
on October 10, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpSsr6C1TIY]
NS
Monday, June 29, 2009
KAPA Meeting Notes from June 23 XXX... Lionel Richie Dancing on the Ceiling... Kenny Loggins I'm Alright Caddyshack Gopher beginning...
My apologies for the delay on this. I had to go out today and look (whether I'll be able to handle it or not...) for PAID employment - plus I'm in a legal dispute with a company that I published some books with... and busy (in that regard) preparing for the next stage...
Whatever. Life is (Even the spell check isn't working today!) TOUGH.
["Lionel Richie - Dancing On The Ceiling"; as submitted to You Tube by danatthebridge on 7/26/07; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdQDXs75Ulo]
Here are the remainder of the KAPA meeting notes from the June 23, 2009 Commission meeting. Please see below for prior entries.
Joe Marchetti gave an update on the Ellenbogen building / contract. Henry Ellenbogen (a new KAPA Commissioner?) reputedly said that KAPA could start operations there [Seven 21 Media Center building] within a week or two. Henry Ellenbogen reputedly requested a meeting with the KAPA Commissioners, U.C. Executive Mike Hein, Maurice Hinchey and Kevin Cahill. It was stated that all FOPA Board Members and KAPA Commissioners should be (no date was set as of yet) there. [I think it would be good to have Mayor Sottile there, as well.]
It was also stated that a contract has reputedly been signed (and that it is approximately two months old at this point) - and that no rent (these funds would apparently have to come through FOPA?) had been received (as per contractual agreement) as of yet.
One or more of the KAPA Commissioners - and the Temporary KAPA Chairperson Bob Smith asked FOPA Chairperson Lisa Alt for a copy of the contract with the Ellenbogens - and Lisa Alt stated that she had no copies on hand / that she only had one hard copy. Bob Smith (KAPA) asked Lisa (FOPA) to make and give copies of this contract to the KAPA Commissioners.
Joe Marchetti mentioned something about the Ellenbogen contract and tax issues - but I did not totally catch nor understand this - so I won't write it up...
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen asked for earlier notifications regarding meetings.
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross asked Lisa Alt (FOPA) for more clarification about the Ellenbogen contract... [Big Issue / No Real Answers Given / Copies of Contract Pending?]
Other than that, the KAPA Commissioners discussed finding individuals to fill vacant Commission slots...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith said a voucher ($400) from the Mayor (for children's programming) was pending...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that he had left messages for Nicky Worner (sp? - Town of Ulster) - but had not yet recieved a response.
After which, the proposed revision of the KAPA Bylaws regarding what constitutes a quorum was discussed...
1. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated his resolution on the topic as had been put forth on the Agenda.
2. Legal questions were raised by some KAPA Commissioners and FOPA Representatives. [This could not go to any kind of vote because legal clarification is needed - and there was no "as written" (and as per ususal) quorum.
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith made the point that even at this meeting - with all of the (active / confirmed) KAPA Commissioners present (except the new elect) - a vote could not be held on anything (typical) due to the way the Bylaws regarding a quorum are currently written. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that without having the ability (for the most part) to vote on pertinent issues - the KAPA Commission had just been "shoveling smoke" for the past couple of years.
FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison gave his opinion that the KAPA Commission [KINGSTON Area Public Access...] should entirely break away from any dealings with the City of Kingston - and that FOPA should handle all KAPA business...
The financial report, from FOPA - given by Lisa Alt - was along [I might not have this perfect / there were no documents presented] these lines:
Current Balance: $1,527.55 [Not inclusive of monies from Walter Mawwell (?????)]
It was stated that the current KAPA P.O. Box (Lisa Alt, FOPA, had both keys)] was
# 3613. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith asked Lisa Alt to give these keys to KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti and a second KAPA Commissioner.
Asked (by someone) about FOPA - as an organization - it was explained (by Lisa, Tim and/or Colin) that the three of them were the "Incorporators of Record" - and that the organization (right word?) had been legally formed (with Lisa Alt as spearhead?) in March of 2006.
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti asked how KAPA was to access / utilize FOPA monies for KAPA business - and if FOPA would continue to be a "fundraising branch" for KAPA... [Apparently KAPA has no checking account of its own... and KAPA is not allowed to access funds from FOPA (say, to pay the rent?) without "permission"]
According to FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison, if I heard this right, FOPA does not belong "to" KAPA - and FOPA is not accountable "to" KAPA...
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross stated that this did not seem right...
Lisa Alt (FOPA), Shelly Zimbler (KAPA) and Joe Marchetti (KAPA) spoke about not wanting FOPA and KAPA to have a conflicted relationship [although, from observation, this seems to be the case - and has been for a while!]
FOPA was alternatively described as a not-for-profit 401-K (Do I have the latter written right?) - a private corporation and an open organization. There are three FOPA Board Members (period) - and (apparently) all FOPA meetings (to this point) have been held [this is seen as there right, which may (?) be the case] privately...
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler asked if he could - if he so chose - join FOPA...
Commissioner Zimbler was (if I understood this right) informed that this was not the way FOPA "was structured".
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross stated that she was there on behalf of her municipality - and it was her understanding that she (I'm rewording this accordingly) worked for her Municipality and KAPA - rather than FOPA. KAPA Commissioner Ross asked how the transition from KAPA (and City of Kingston / other municipality) controls --- to FOPA control had occurred. KAPA Commissioner Ross stated that she was not comfortable with the FOPA / KAPA situation as put forth.
FOPA Board Member Colin Evans said that FOPA did not have to go along with what the KAPA Commission (or Commissioners) wanted - especially in regard to legal contracts. Colin Evans (FOPA) stated that FOPA did not want to be (if problems occurred) legally "liable" for KAPA...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that there seemed to be a "divide between KAPA and FOPA".
FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison apparently (I did not see this) brought a document - and handed this out (I'm not clear on this... more later) to the KAPA Commissioners. FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison stated that FOPA had just entered a contract (re the 7-21 Media Center) - and that the monies were not currently available to follow up / honor the agreement... FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison complained [iyiyi...] about a lack of documentation by KAPA...
In that vein, FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison requested that the KAPA Commissioners do some analysis and document some plans...
At which time KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith asked exactly what FOPA's "Fundraising Arm" was... [Answer: FOPA Board Members, Lisa Alt, Tim Morrison and Colin Evans...]
[A lot of answers to questions aren't recorded here specifically because none were given specifically.]
It was stated that only one of the three FOPA Board Members actually signed on the contract with the 7-21 Media Center / Ellenbogen building.
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler spoke of the need for fundraising...
[And the mess (my opinion - and I am NOT going to record all of this - in this kind of detail - again!) went on...
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross again stated that she did not understand why KAPA should be accountable to FOPA. KAPA Commissioner Ross stated that she felt she was accountable to her municipality in regard to Kingston Area Public Access television (via the KAPA Commission) - period.
A lot of other "stuff" (of the same or a similar nature...) was tossed about (as per ususal...) - and the KAPA Commissioners appeared to determine that having a copy of said contract (7-21 Media Center / Ellenbogen building) "in hand" was a priority issue.
There was also something said about the receipt (via FOPA?) of a grant from Walter Maxwell... [This was not included (although mentioned) in the budget report total that was given by FOPA Board Member Lisa Alt... all in all making one wonder why the rent for the 7-21 Media Center is reputedly two months (???) in arrears (without KAPA even utilizing the studio space) already...]
Theresa Washington, a KAPA Commission hopeful, also spoke on the need for more transparency and documentation from FOPA (and in general?). Ms. Washington utilized the example of how the school budget is layed out for everyone to see...
FOPA Commissioner Tim Morrison stated that a yearly FOPA report (all that is required of them?) had been submitted in January.
----------------------
In the open speaking session at the end of the meeting, there was some anger and angst (including my own) in the room. The highlights:
FOPA Boardmember Colin Evans stated that as Director of FOPA he didn't want to sign / engage in anything for which FOPA (or he personally?) could be held accountable. He also expressed concern re. revenues (including some monies that were reputedly coming from other municipalities) not coming through.
A bunch of folks spoke about just wanting to see KAPA get back "on the air."
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that it was very clear that KAPA had no money... and that he was not clear as to where FOPA (budget reports, etc.) stands...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated (to this effect...) that the lack of documentation / unanswered questions re. FOPA and KAPA could lead to the "appearance of improprietry" (and problems for the station) --- even if (as might be the case) no such "impropriety" existed...
----------------------------------------
Other than that [This is about as comprehensive as its going to be... Geesh!]
(1) A KAPA workshop, as noted, was set for Tuesday night (tomorrow night) as listed in sidebar [7PM City Hall, Conference Room One, Open to the Public]
(2) FOPA did not set (at this meeting) a date or place for their next FOPA meeting (Lisa Alt left this meeting early) - and apparently (?!?) the FOPA members (those that spoke on the issue) don't feel that FOPA has to open its meetings or reveal its documents (This could be true... What do I know?] to the KAPA Commission and/or the general public.
-----------------------------------------
That is all folks. If you note any errors (I have corrected some already...) please let me know and I will check it out / make corrections as (upon investigation) called for.
-----------------------------------------
Stress (I hope...) Reliever:
["I'm Alright - Kenny Loggins - Caddyshack Gopher beginning"; as submitted to You Tube by jaredthomas13 on 3/19/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFGpgt4EC3I]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
Whatever. Life is (Even the spell check isn't working today!) TOUGH.
["Lionel Richie - Dancing On The Ceiling"; as submitted to You Tube by danatthebridge on 7/26/07; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdQDXs75Ulo]
Here are the remainder of the KAPA meeting notes from the June 23, 2009 Commission meeting. Please see below for prior entries.
Joe Marchetti gave an update on the Ellenbogen building / contract. Henry Ellenbogen (a new KAPA Commissioner?) reputedly said that KAPA could start operations there [Seven 21 Media Center building] within a week or two. Henry Ellenbogen reputedly requested a meeting with the KAPA Commissioners, U.C. Executive Mike Hein, Maurice Hinchey and Kevin Cahill. It was stated that all FOPA Board Members and KAPA Commissioners should be (no date was set as of yet) there. [I think it would be good to have Mayor Sottile there, as well.]
It was also stated that a contract has reputedly been signed (and that it is approximately two months old at this point) - and that no rent (these funds would apparently have to come through FOPA?) had been received (as per contractual agreement) as of yet.
One or more of the KAPA Commissioners - and the Temporary KAPA Chairperson Bob Smith asked FOPA Chairperson Lisa Alt for a copy of the contract with the Ellenbogens - and Lisa Alt stated that she had no copies on hand / that she only had one hard copy. Bob Smith (KAPA) asked Lisa (FOPA) to make and give copies of this contract to the KAPA Commissioners.
Joe Marchetti mentioned something about the Ellenbogen contract and tax issues - but I did not totally catch nor understand this - so I won't write it up...
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen asked for earlier notifications regarding meetings.
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross asked Lisa Alt (FOPA) for more clarification about the Ellenbogen contract... [Big Issue / No Real Answers Given / Copies of Contract Pending?]
Other than that, the KAPA Commissioners discussed finding individuals to fill vacant Commission slots...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith said a voucher ($400) from the Mayor (for children's programming) was pending...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that he had left messages for Nicky Worner (sp? - Town of Ulster) - but had not yet recieved a response.
After which, the proposed revision of the KAPA Bylaws regarding what constitutes a quorum was discussed...
1. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated his resolution on the topic as had been put forth on the Agenda.
2. Legal questions were raised by some KAPA Commissioners and FOPA Representatives. [This could not go to any kind of vote because legal clarification is needed - and there was no "as written" (and as per ususal) quorum.
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith made the point that even at this meeting - with all of the (active / confirmed) KAPA Commissioners present (except the new elect) - a vote could not be held on anything (typical) due to the way the Bylaws regarding a quorum are currently written. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that without having the ability (for the most part) to vote on pertinent issues - the KAPA Commission had just been "shoveling smoke" for the past couple of years.
FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison gave his opinion that the KAPA Commission [KINGSTON Area Public Access...] should entirely break away from any dealings with the City of Kingston - and that FOPA should handle all KAPA business...
The financial report, from FOPA - given by Lisa Alt - was along [I might not have this perfect / there were no documents presented] these lines:
Current Balance: $1,527.55 [Not inclusive of monies from Walter Mawwell (?????)]
It was stated that the current KAPA P.O. Box (Lisa Alt, FOPA, had both keys)] was
# 3613. KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith asked Lisa Alt to give these keys to KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti and a second KAPA Commissioner.
Asked (by someone) about FOPA - as an organization - it was explained (by Lisa, Tim and/or Colin) that the three of them were the "Incorporators of Record" - and that the organization (right word?) had been legally formed (with Lisa Alt as spearhead?) in March of 2006.
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti asked how KAPA was to access / utilize FOPA monies for KAPA business - and if FOPA would continue to be a "fundraising branch" for KAPA... [Apparently KAPA has no checking account of its own... and KAPA is not allowed to access funds from FOPA (say, to pay the rent?) without "permission"]
According to FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison, if I heard this right, FOPA does not belong "to" KAPA - and FOPA is not accountable "to" KAPA...
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross stated that this did not seem right...
Lisa Alt (FOPA), Shelly Zimbler (KAPA) and Joe Marchetti (KAPA) spoke about not wanting FOPA and KAPA to have a conflicted relationship [although, from observation, this seems to be the case - and has been for a while!]
FOPA was alternatively described as a not-for-profit 401-K (Do I have the latter written right?) - a private corporation and an open organization. There are three FOPA Board Members (period) - and (apparently) all FOPA meetings (to this point) have been held [this is seen as there right, which may (?) be the case] privately...
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler asked if he could - if he so chose - join FOPA...
Commissioner Zimbler was (if I understood this right) informed that this was not the way FOPA "was structured".
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross stated that she was there on behalf of her municipality - and it was her understanding that she (I'm rewording this accordingly) worked for her Municipality and KAPA - rather than FOPA. KAPA Commissioner Ross asked how the transition from KAPA (and City of Kingston / other municipality) controls --- to FOPA control had occurred. KAPA Commissioner Ross stated that she was not comfortable with the FOPA / KAPA situation as put forth.
FOPA Board Member Colin Evans said that FOPA did not have to go along with what the KAPA Commission (or Commissioners) wanted - especially in regard to legal contracts. Colin Evans (FOPA) stated that FOPA did not want to be (if problems occurred) legally "liable" for KAPA...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that there seemed to be a "divide between KAPA and FOPA".
FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison apparently (I did not see this) brought a document - and handed this out (I'm not clear on this... more later) to the KAPA Commissioners. FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison stated that FOPA had just entered a contract (re the 7-21 Media Center) - and that the monies were not currently available to follow up / honor the agreement... FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison complained [iyiyi...] about a lack of documentation by KAPA...
In that vein, FOPA Board Member Tim Morrison requested that the KAPA Commissioners do some analysis and document some plans...
At which time KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith asked exactly what FOPA's "Fundraising Arm" was... [Answer: FOPA Board Members, Lisa Alt, Tim Morrison and Colin Evans...]
[A lot of answers to questions aren't recorded here specifically because none were given specifically.]
It was stated that only one of the three FOPA Board Members actually signed on the contract with the 7-21 Media Center / Ellenbogen building.
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler spoke of the need for fundraising...
[And the mess (my opinion - and I am NOT going to record all of this - in this kind of detail - again!) went on...
KAPA Commissioner Mercedes Ross again stated that she did not understand why KAPA should be accountable to FOPA. KAPA Commissioner Ross stated that she felt she was accountable to her municipality in regard to Kingston Area Public Access television (via the KAPA Commission) - period.
A lot of other "stuff" (of the same or a similar nature...) was tossed about (as per ususal...) - and the KAPA Commissioners appeared to determine that having a copy of said contract (7-21 Media Center / Ellenbogen building) "in hand" was a priority issue.
There was also something said about the receipt (via FOPA?) of a grant from Walter Maxwell... [This was not included (although mentioned) in the budget report total that was given by FOPA Board Member Lisa Alt... all in all making one wonder why the rent for the 7-21 Media Center is reputedly two months (???) in arrears (without KAPA even utilizing the studio space) already...]
Theresa Washington, a KAPA Commission hopeful, also spoke on the need for more transparency and documentation from FOPA (and in general?). Ms. Washington utilized the example of how the school budget is layed out for everyone to see...
FOPA Commissioner Tim Morrison stated that a yearly FOPA report (all that is required of them?) had been submitted in January.
----------------------
In the open speaking session at the end of the meeting, there was some anger and angst (including my own) in the room. The highlights:
FOPA Boardmember Colin Evans stated that as Director of FOPA he didn't want to sign / engage in anything for which FOPA (or he personally?) could be held accountable. He also expressed concern re. revenues (including some monies that were reputedly coming from other municipalities) not coming through.
A bunch of folks spoke about just wanting to see KAPA get back "on the air."
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated that it was very clear that KAPA had no money... and that he was not clear as to where FOPA (budget reports, etc.) stands...
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith stated (to this effect...) that the lack of documentation / unanswered questions re. FOPA and KAPA could lead to the "appearance of improprietry" (and problems for the station) --- even if (as might be the case) no such "impropriety" existed...
----------------------------------------
Other than that [This is about as comprehensive as its going to be... Geesh!]
(1) A KAPA workshop, as noted, was set for Tuesday night (tomorrow night) as listed in sidebar [7PM City Hall, Conference Room One, Open to the Public]
(2) FOPA did not set (at this meeting) a date or place for their next FOPA meeting (Lisa Alt left this meeting early) - and apparently (?!?) the FOPA members (those that spoke on the issue) don't feel that FOPA has to open its meetings or reveal its documents (This could be true... What do I know?] to the KAPA Commission and/or the general public.
-----------------------------------------
That is all folks. If you note any errors (I have corrected some already...) please let me know and I will check it out / make corrections as (upon investigation) called for.
-----------------------------------------
Stress (I hope...) Reliever:
["I'm Alright - Kenny Loggins - Caddyshack Gopher beginning"; as submitted to You Tube by jaredthomas13 on 3/19/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFGpgt4EC3I]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
KAPA Notes... WindUp Pending... Ward 5 Advisory... Natural Gas Lines... Construction... Fireworks... Gardening... Signs... More
The following video provides important information (I had to do a quick search) on "Natural Gas Pipeline Safety" - with relevant contact numbers for additional info. I hope the DPW is up-to-date on their training regarding this... It might be that we could use a few more visible signs (with all of the Construction and gardening projects going on....) around natural gas line locations in the City of Kingston...
["Natural Gas Pipeline Safety"; as submitted to You Tube by NWEUtility on June 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSf2pakfYw4]
I will try - before this day is out - to finish the KAPA notes from the last Commission meeting - with a reminder to you and me (I may or may not attend) that KAPA's next scheduled meeting (a workshop) is (unless something changes) tomorrow night, 7PM, Kingston City Hall, Conference Rm. 1 (and it is open to the public).
I also have some other information that I want to get posted on here - but it is tough to keep up with myself (lol!) - even when my mood bounces back up to "you CAN do this!"
Today: The rest of the KAPA notes, for sure...
Pending: Interview with a wonderful lady!
-----------------------------------------------
Notice for Ward 5: With all of the construction going on, please be aware that construction (especially sewer construction) runs the risk of hitting a natural gas line (I just read this in a pamphlet) - so please keep your attention peeled for any noxious smells or other signs of a gas leak...
And please... whoever is setting off firecrackers or fireworks (last night) over in that vicinity... keep this (if you are a neighbor, could you clue them in) in mind?
I'm not real familiar with the laws around the firecrackers, fireworks or whatever... but I do know I'm invested in NOT having my neighborhood blow up! [Note - it is also good to be careful - in regard to natural gas lines - when digging gardens, planting trees and such!]
Please take note of the fact (Ward 5 / those traveling through) that there are a number of children riding scooters - and puppies running about - in the YMCA Park / Summer Street [a narrow street that sometimes has a lot of cars parked on it - and currently (due to the construction nearby) even more...] area. So please use care driving (particularly backing out of driveways or where visibility is otherwise compromised (a Ward issue?)] in the Summer Street / YMCA area!
-------------------------------------------------
I actually thought I had zapped (tucked it into drafts) the post below... so it was funny to get on here and see it - not only published, but in bigger video format than usual...
And, since it is there - and it made me laugh - I'm going to leave it there (I sure need a laugh) - even though my motivation for the first video posting was sarcasm and anger (These guys deserve multimillion dollar book deals?????) - my poem betrayed one of my very down evenings - and both of the videos contain (Now I can write, for both, "viewer discretion advised") curse words...
That said - a laugh is a laugh - and it is good that I can still laugh at myself (my own mistakes) sometimes!
Thanks! (This has been revised / edited somewhat)...
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
["Natural Gas Pipeline Safety"; as submitted to You Tube by NWEUtility on June 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSf2pakfYw4]
I will try - before this day is out - to finish the KAPA notes from the last Commission meeting - with a reminder to you and me (I may or may not attend) that KAPA's next scheduled meeting (a workshop) is (unless something changes) tomorrow night, 7PM, Kingston City Hall, Conference Rm. 1 (and it is open to the public).
I also have some other information that I want to get posted on here - but it is tough to keep up with myself (lol!) - even when my mood bounces back up to "you CAN do this!"
Today: The rest of the KAPA notes, for sure...
Pending: Interview with a wonderful lady!
-----------------------------------------------
Notice for Ward 5: With all of the construction going on, please be aware that construction (especially sewer construction) runs the risk of hitting a natural gas line (I just read this in a pamphlet) - so please keep your attention peeled for any noxious smells or other signs of a gas leak...
And please... whoever is setting off firecrackers or fireworks (last night) over in that vicinity... keep this (if you are a neighbor, could you clue them in) in mind?
I'm not real familiar with the laws around the firecrackers, fireworks or whatever... but I do know I'm invested in NOT having my neighborhood blow up! [Note - it is also good to be careful - in regard to natural gas lines - when digging gardens, planting trees and such!]
Please take note of the fact (Ward 5 / those traveling through) that there are a number of children riding scooters - and puppies running about - in the YMCA Park / Summer Street [a narrow street that sometimes has a lot of cars parked on it - and currently (due to the construction nearby) even more...] area. So please use care driving (particularly backing out of driveways or where visibility is otherwise compromised (a Ward issue?)] in the Summer Street / YMCA area!
-------------------------------------------------
I actually thought I had zapped (tucked it into drafts) the post below... so it was funny to get on here and see it - not only published, but in bigger video format than usual...
And, since it is there - and it made me laugh - I'm going to leave it there (I sure need a laugh) - even though my motivation for the first video posting was sarcasm and anger (These guys deserve multimillion dollar book deals?????) - my poem betrayed one of my very down evenings - and both of the videos contain (Now I can write, for both, "viewer discretion advised") curse words...
That said - a laugh is a laugh - and it is good that I can still laugh at myself (my own mistakes) sometimes!
Thanks! (This has been revised / edited somewhat)...
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Whatever... You Tube Videos and Poem... Muddling Through...
Plugging this (shrunk it!) in here now (6/29): "Viewer Discretion Advised / Some Cursewords and (in my opinion, regarding Obama...) Distasteful (at best) Commentary... Please note that I am not in control of the attached adds... What I choose to promote (for free) is generally provided in the sidebar or in a link that I post within a thread!:
["Cheney Seeks Multimillion Book Deal"; as submitted to You Tube by travisandjonathan on May 31, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKJYPgX9_ek]
I'm just a poet really,
A silly clown undone...
Heart breaking for the victims
Of a world that shelters none
From too much wind or rain or pain
Or even too much sun...
I'm just a child really,
Inside this aging soul...
Learning all there is to learn
As memory unfolds...
The truth a tiny whisper
Wiped out by
All the screams...
Daisies plucked
Love out of luck...
Left dying...
By the stream...
Can you tell me...
Can you tell me...
What does it all mean?
I'm just another person,
On this road to
Heaven or Hell...
Or someplace
In between the lines
Of a shattered shell...
'Tis really hard to tell...
[It's too bad "Humpty" fell...
And eggs are fragile...]
I'm just a poet really,
A silly clown undone...
Still working on a dream
Or two...
Still trying to have fun...
Whilst wondering just how often
Whitman sat down and cried?
Angelou thought of giving up?
Sexton thought of suicide...
Poetry not a child's tryst
The truth always taboo...
Perhaps I should try looking
For Cinderella's shoe?
When will we stop this game, "Pretend..."
Let truthsayers speak their minds
Take the shackles off
Our wrists...
Open up our minds?
We are worth so much more
Than this...
Have so much potential
To "be"
Why is it then...
Why is it then...
We still cannot break free?
I am just a child really
Inside this aging soul...
Cracked and broken
Scrambled
Boiled...
Life sure takes a toll...
But the clown remains
And the jester too...
And music helps me
Muddle through...
Early in the morning
On "nights" like this
When nothing makes sense...
At all.
----------------------------------------------------
Viewer Discretion (Curse Words) Advised:
["Ricky Gervais - Humpty Dumpty from politics"; JonnyRaz99
July 06, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYytaZ06Hco]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
["Cheney Seeks Multimillion Book Deal"; as submitted to You Tube by travisandjonathan on May 31, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKJYPgX9_ek]
I'm just a poet really,
A silly clown undone...
Heart breaking for the victims
Of a world that shelters none
From too much wind or rain or pain
Or even too much sun...
I'm just a child really,
Inside this aging soul...
Learning all there is to learn
As memory unfolds...
The truth a tiny whisper
Wiped out by
All the screams...
Daisies plucked
Love out of luck...
Left dying...
By the stream...
Can you tell me...
Can you tell me...
What does it all mean?
I'm just another person,
On this road to
Heaven or Hell...
Or someplace
In between the lines
Of a shattered shell...
'Tis really hard to tell...
[It's too bad "Humpty" fell...
And eggs are fragile...]
I'm just a poet really,
A silly clown undone...
Still working on a dream
Or two...
Still trying to have fun...
Whilst wondering just how often
Whitman sat down and cried?
Angelou thought of giving up?
Sexton thought of suicide...
Poetry not a child's tryst
The truth always taboo...
Perhaps I should try looking
For Cinderella's shoe?
When will we stop this game, "Pretend..."
Let truthsayers speak their minds
Take the shackles off
Our wrists...
Open up our minds?
We are worth so much more
Than this...
Have so much potential
To "be"
Why is it then...
Why is it then...
We still cannot break free?
I am just a child really
Inside this aging soul...
Cracked and broken
Scrambled
Boiled...
Life sure takes a toll...
But the clown remains
And the jester too...
And music helps me
Muddle through...
Early in the morning
On "nights" like this
When nothing makes sense...
At all.
----------------------------------------------------
Viewer Discretion (Curse Words) Advised:
["Ricky Gervais - Humpty Dumpty from politics"; JonnyRaz99
July 06, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYytaZ06Hco]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
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