This blog is an offshoot of my previous blog, Spreading Our Wings... http://www.spreadingourwings.blogspot.com.
As before, this blog is personal and political... serious and sometimes silly...
My goal is to relay what I deem to be important information, express some of my viewpoints, engage in some online creativity - and find out (please comment appropriately) what others are thinking, as well!
[Photo Passed On By My Mother...; Beautiful, Isn't It?]
I had the privilege of spending more time with my mother this past few months - and I have remembered a bunch of "cool" things...
With one result of these contacts being a renewed appreciation of the country --- and the natural beauty (sometimes one has to seek it out) that surrounds us...
I only "just" learned that one of Mom's favorite singers is John Denver - so as we celebrate our troops (both of my brothers served in the U.S. Military) --- let us not forget to honor the parents of our troops (I remember how tough it was on my brothers and my mom...) - as well.
For you Mom [In Memory of Bob (West Point / Germany) and In Honor of (Yo Bro!) Richard (1960s Korea)]
["John Denver - Annie´s Song"; as submitted to You Tube by Isauria on September 14, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkGS263lGsQ]
["New Media Across Government"; as submitted to You Tube by USGovernment on May 20, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPBqEdjYw-E]
"NYS Senator Jeff Kein Proposses Legislation that would allow state residents to receive free e-mail alerts of status changes for level 2 and level 3 sex offenders in their communities..."
"NYSSen.JeffKleinSexOffenderE-mailUpdateBill"; as submitted to You Tube by nysenateuncut on May 19, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NETTnN71IkI]
[Beautiful Photo Passed On By A Family Member (Thank You!)]
I can't help but look around the city that I live in and note the signs of hope and the signs of despair - so sometimes a photograph of something innocent and beautiful can offer a moment of peace amidst the chaos of my "tending towards worry" brain...
Like many others, I am planting flowers and vines and... (I'm not there "yet") vegetables - many of these from seeds - some of which one can purchase at the dollar store in a deal of "buy one pack and get three or four (memory dip) packs (a pretty nifty deal!) free."
Why am I planting all of this when I am someone that has only ventured into the realm of a few daffodils and tulips in the past?
To stay sane in a world that seems (at least some of the time) to be spinning out of control... To deal with the stress that is keeping pace with this boat (The waters are a bit choppy!) of hope and despair... To get in touch with the earth... get grounded... and honestly, at some level, because I NEED the beauty of flowers around me this year... and some part of me is afraid that these vegetables [If I can even "birth" (lol) a vegetable...] might be (one of these days) all that we have available to eat...
Which does not mean this is a self-pity post, because certainly there are many folks in tougher positions that I am / we are...
What it is, I hope, is a reality-based post... as I talk to my neighbors and we share our concerns... as I take a look around and wonder "what comes next?" "Are things going to get better?" Or... "worse?"
I'm glad to report that some form of Credit Card reform has been passed by the Senate, and sad to report that I don't think it was nearly (by far) enough... [My opinion, yours may differ...]
I'm glad to report that the Obama Administration is taking Health Care Reform seriously, but afraid that they intend to use Medicare as their "script" for all (Am I wrong? I hope I'm wrong) - and I personally think (sorry folks) that Medicare is a messed up system that will NOT meet Obama's stated goals (as I understand them) or the American people's medical [for example, dental should be in there too!] needs...
I'm glad to report that corruption seems to be tackled more frequently... and alarmed (still) by the types of reports (child abuse, violence, etc.) that are coming out in the news...
["Credit Card Outrage"; as submitted by SenatorSanders on May 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INmxtVB0dg4]
Passing This On (Modified Somewhat for Inclusion Here) / Received from D. Mintz, MoveOn.Org Political Action on 6/14/09:
"... Have you ever looked at your credit card statement and realized your interest rate was twice what it was the month before? Or wondered why you're getting charged a late fee when you paid your bill on time?
Credit card companies are notorious for back-handed maneuvers like these. And they've been doing this for so long, it almost feels hopeless to protest...
But now, the Senate is considering a strong bill to outlaw some of their most egregious abuses... But the bill isn't moving, and too many senators are scared to take truly bold action against the banks...
If enough of us speak out together quickly, we can make sure Congress knows we expect them to protect voters, not banks...
... As long as the banks are the ones writing the rules, we'll continue to have a system that's good for them and bad for everyone else...
Since the early 1980s, the government has gotten rid of more and more regulations at the banks' urging. Entire industries have sprung up built on misleading people and taking advantage of them...
Now that we've seen the disastrous consequences of that deregulation, we have to act.
The House bill passed by a big margin, but the Senate bill, sponsored by Senator Chris Dodd, is significantly tougher on the banks. If we don't pass strong reform now—in this moment of anger at the industry's wild abuses—we may not get the chance again. That's why we need to speak out right away to make sure the banks can't block or water down these necessary reforms."
To read more and/or sign the associated petition (for a "strong Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights...) - go to (copy and paste in the address bar):
The commentary (spell-corrected & slightly revised here) that I (along with signing the petition) sent along:
"What a lot of credit card companies and associated lending institutions are doing to the American people seems downright criminal.
Please take action so that
1) the American public gets a fair shake;
2) the American public gets clear and concise information about the economic contracts they might choose to enter into;
3) credit card companies and associated lending institutions are no longer allowed to alter economic contracts in an underhanded and exploitative manner;
4) credit card companies and associated lending institutions are forbidden to harass the American public via home phones or cell phones(including hang-up calls, multiple messages, etc)- which can lead to counter-productive [stress]; and...
5) what we are left with are "win-win" honest contracts that both borrowers and lenders can benefit from in a dignified integral manner.
In addition, if any of this could be made retrospective... (Is some restitution to the victims of unfair practices in order?) THAT would be WONDERFUL..."
["Obama: Photos Not "Sensational," Would "Inflame Anti-America"; as submitted by tpmtv on May 13, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-Y0c--VgAo]
"The news is buzzing that Dick Cheney would welcome a commission to investigate Bush-era torture - but we need to make it clear that a mere investigation is not enough. What we need is a prosecution.
The buzz intensifed on May 10, when Cheney told CBS' Bob Schieffer that he hopes for a public discussion of the CIA memos on torture - or, as he refers to it, "enhanced interrogation techniques."
Only after a thorough investigation by a U.S. attorney will we know for sure whether and to what extent Cheney broke the law and besmirched the Constitution while serving in the Bush administration. And if he did break the law, he deserves to be prosecuted and sent to prison..."
"I just took action to tell Attorney General Holder to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Cheney and -- pending the outcome of that investigation -- to prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law. I hope you will, too.
Please have a look and take action...
http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/prosecute_cheney/?r_by=4005-1963986-KmllRXx&rc=confemail [Copy and Paste in Address Bar]
Thanks!"
NS [The wording in this letter was provided by Credo Action; bold print mine]
["Senator Gillibrand "listens" to WNYers"; as submitted to You Tube by WIVBTV on May 04, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PqPpEBiS4Y]
["Commentary on President Obama's Health Care Announcement"; as submitted to You Tube by DemRapidResponse on May 11, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5M69OzncSA]
["On Hardball, Miss California Vs. Gay Marriage"; as submitted to You Tube by keithmsnbcer on May 12, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghwlzfNj9rY]
["Corbin Bleu - Celebrate You - Official Music Video"; as submitted to You Tube by hollywoodrecords on February 06, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF848tAENQg]
["Wanda Sykes... at White House Correspondents' Dinner Part 1"; as submitted to You Tube by firedoglake on May 09, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3ewEkcc2Yw]
["{Part 2} Wanda Sykes @ White House Correspondents Dinner"; as submitted by NewsPoliticsNews on May 09, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdkEHIjsXQI]
Passing This On From the Center for Disease Control and Prevention [cdc@service.govdelivery.com] / Received by email on 5/08/09]:
"... The ongoing outbreak of novel influenza A (H1N1) continues to expand in the United States. CDC expects that more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths from this outbreak will occur over the coming days and weeks.
CDC continues to take aggressive action to respond to the expanding outbreak. CDC’s response goals are to reduce spread and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by this emergency.
CDC is issuing updated interim guidance daily in response to the rapidly evolving situation.
Antiviral Guidance...
CDC has issued guidance for health care providers on the use of antiviral medications during the current outbreak. The priority use for influenza antiviral drugs is to treat severe influenza illness and people who are at high risk of serious influenza-related conditions.
School Guidance...
At this time, CDC recommends the primary means to reduce spread of influenza in schools focus on early identification of ill students and staff, staying home when sick, and good cough etiquette and frequent hand washing. Decisions about school closure should be at the discretion of local authorities based on local considerations. (See the School Guidance.)
Increased Testing...
CDC has developed a PCR diagnostic test kit to detect this novel H1N1 virus and has now distributed test kits to all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The test kits are being shipped internationally as well. This will allow states and other countries to test for this new virus. This increase in testing capacity is likely to result in an increase in the number of reported confirmed cases in this country, which should provide a more accurate picture of the burden of disease in the United States.
U.S. Human Cases of H1N1 Flu Infection
As of 11 AM ET on May 8, 2009, CDC has confirmed 1639 human cases and 2 deaths in 1 state:
["Sam Waterston on ABC News On-Line on Fair Elections Now Act"; as submitted to You Tube by publicampaign on April 08, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biYQ8i2HOKI]
Re. the "Fair Elections Now Act" [Passing This On...]
"Groups accept Obama rules - for 1 night" (By KENNETH P. VOGEL & CHRIS FRATES | 4/20/09 7:24 PM EDT):
"The DCCC and DSCC agree to forego lobbyist and PAC cash in order to land Obama as the keynote speaker... The two major Democratic congressional fundraising committees agreed to forego lobbyist and political action committee cash at a June fundraiser in order to land President Barack Obama as the keynote speaker...
During the campaign, Obama used his pledge to assert he wasn’t beholden to the special interests he derided as controlling Washington... And sources involved in setting up the arrangement between the White House and the DSCC and DCCC said the groups decided not accept money from lobbyists and PACs anytime Obama is involved in a fundraising effort out of deference to his campaign trail pledge.
'Our understanding is that the president's restrictions will apply to any of his direct fundraising,' said a Democratic aide familiar with the arrangement... That’s in contrast to the arrangement Obama dictated to the Democratic National Committee, which will not accept lobbyist or PAC contributions as long as Obama’s at the helm of the party.
Nonetheless, the one-night restriction could turn out to be a big concession for the DCCC and the DSCC. They typically reap lots of money from lobbyists and PACs seeking to cozy up to sitting members of Congress, who control the fate of legislation upon which their livelihoods and those of their clients often depend.
In January and February, the period covered by their most recent electronically available filings, the DCCC raised $990,000 from PACs and $4.8 million from individuals – a tally that includes contributions from lobbyists. The DSCC, meanwhile, had raised $2.6 million from PACs and $2.7 million from individuals.
One Democratic Party source said the White House had dictated the conditions of Obama’s appearance at the joint congressional fundraiser in June. And a Democratic operative familiar with the pre-conditions predicted the restrictions wouldn’t impact the haul at the event.
Whether it affects the groups’ bottom line or not, the arrangement is just window dressing, asserted Ken Spain, spokesman for the DCCC’s rival, the National Republican Congressional Committee.
'It’s a one night conversion. It is the height of hypocrisy for President Obama to headline a dinner for the very same campaign committees that oppose his position of refusing lobbyist donations,' Spain said. 'This was a lose-lose situation for them. Both the DCCC and the DSCC were forced to decide between incurring a major P.R. hit and undercutting the president’s anti-lobbyist platform or cutting off a significant money source.'
Obama has been consistent on the issue, said DNC spokesman Brad Woodhouse.
'If he’s going to be involved in a fundraiser, he’s going to maintain the restrictions that he had for his own campaign and that he has for the DNC – that he not raise PAC or lobbyist money,' Woodhouse said.
Obama in February rejected an invitation to headline a fundraiser thrown by the Democratic Governors Association, which - as a so-called 527 organization –is outside the reach of many federal election laws, allowing it to reap huge donations exceeding federal limits from not only PACs and lobbyists, but also from corporations, which are barred from contributing to federal campaigns" ["Groups accept Obama rules - for 1 night"; Kenneth P. Vogel and Chris Frates; POLITICO.com; http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0409/21478.html]
The Options Presented On Site Include: Email... Recommend... Share...
"During his campaign, President Obama set a standard of not accepting donations from registered lobbyists or Political Action Committees (PACs). While somewhat symbolic, he did so to let the public know he was serious about tackling the undue influence of money in politics. 'I’ve sent a strong signal in this campaign by refusing the contributions of registered federal lobbyists and PACs...They do not fund my campaign...And they will not drown out the voices of the American people when I’m President of the United States,' Obama said in June of 2008.
Upon becoming the Democratic nominee, Obama convinced the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to follow his lead and not take donations from PACs and registered lobbyists as well... The two other Democratic fundraising committees, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), did not take that same pledge until now, but only for the one night when President Obama will appear at a gala fundraising event on June 18th.
In a recent letter to the Democratic campaign committees, Change Congress asks these groups to keep the ban in place without exception:
'For 364 days a year, your rules would allow members of Congress to leave a hearing about regulating Wall Street and then walk straight to the DSCC and DCCC offices to ‘dial for dollars’ from Wall Street lobbyists who want more bailout money and less accountability to taxpayers. Most Americans would find that conflict of interest repulsive.
'We call on you to ban PAC and lobbyist contributions 365 days a year, just as President Obama did.'
The letter is signed by a number of activists and bloggers, including Nick Nyhart, president and CEO of Public Campaign; David Donnelly, national campaigns director of Public Campaign Action Fund, David Arkush, director of Public Citizen's Congress Watch; and Lisa Gilbert, democracy advocate at US PIRG.
The letter has made a splash in the media. A number of news outlets, including The Huffington Post and Politico, have covered this letter. The New York Times blog rightly points out, 'Part of the goal here is to restore and expand public campaign financing in elections.'" [This was sent by Nick Nyhart of the Public Campaign Action Fund]
To sign the letter go to (Copy and Paste): http://www.stopfakereform.com
2.
"The Fair Elections Now Act is gaining traction. Since the introduction of the legislation a month ago, a slew of new co-sponsors from the House of Representatives have signed onto the bill. In total there are now 22 House sponsors and co-sponsors. We are encouraged by this progress, but we still need your help... Please take a few moments to call and ask your member, Rep. Maurice Hinchey, at (202) 225-6335, to join the list of sponsors of the Fair Elections Now Act!" [This was sent by Nick Nyhart of the Public Campaign Action Fund]
["Reaction: Who should fill Souter's seat?"; as submitted to You Tube by UPIVideo on May 01, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpSePWyuoxw]
From Today's Emails:
"President Obama will soon nominate a new Supreme Court justice now that Justice David Souter has announced his retirement from the Court... Please [sign our petition] urging him to name another woman like Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who is a proven advocate for equality and fair treatment under the Constitution... Ginsburg said she can't help but wonder what people think when they visit the Court and see only one woman out of the nine justices. 'There I am all alone, and it doesn't look right,' said Ginsburg, noting that women bring a life experience to the court that men can't... Please help balance the scales of justice by nominating a woman who stands for equality and justice to join Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court. Encourage your friends to sign, too -- NOW will hand deliver every 10,000 signatures to the White House." [This was sent by the National Organization for Women Action Center]
As the debate about torture rages on in Washington — with calls for investigations of the Bush administration — here’s a perhaps surprising nugget about how Americans view torture of suspected terrorists.
Turns out the more often people go to church, the more likely they are to support torture — that’s according to a new survey by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.
The poll finds that of more than half of Americans who attend church services at least once a week, 54 percent say the use of torture is often or sometimes justified.
Only 42 percent of people who seldom or never go to church agree…
Evangelical Protestants are the religious group most likely to agree; while people unaffiliated with any religious group are least likely to support torture.
Of course evangelicals were a major voting bloc courted by President Bush both times he ran for office; and former Bush officials continue to speak out now about how the harsh techniques yielded critical information that helped keep this country safe. But it’s ironic that the faithful are more supportive of torture, isn’t it?
Overall, Pew found 49 percent of Americans say torture is at least “sometimes” justified; while 47 percent say it rarely or never is. Republicans are more likely to support the actions than Democrats; while a majority of Independents believe that torture is sometimes justified.
Here’s my question to you: Why is it that the more often Americans go to church, the more likely they are to support torture of suspected terrorists?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?"
Go to CNNPolitics.com's "Cafferty File" at: http://caffertyfile.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/01/why-are-frequent-churchgoers-more-likely-to-support-torture/#more-5638
"Quick quiz: You're a powerful government lawyer who gives the legal go-ahead for a secret U.S. torture program.
Do you:
a) Lose your license to practice law b) Go to jail c) Win a lifetime appointment to one of the highest courts in the land
In the case of Jay Bybee, the answer is "c." Bybee, the lawyer responsible for many of the worst Bush-era torture memos, is currently serving on the prestigious 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, thanks to his old boss, George W. Bush.
That's just not right.
Jay Bybee showed no respect for our laws and isn't fit to be a federal judge. Can you sign our petition to Congress calling for the impeachment of Jay Bybee?
... The petition says: 'Jay Bybee, the man behind the torture memos, is unfit to be a federal judge. Congress should impeach him.
President Obama said last night that torture 'corrodes the character of a country.' He's right. Jay Bybee, who violated the law by coming up with a 'legal' rationale for waterboarding and other acts of torture, isn't qualified to hold a position charged with upholding our Constitution.
The outcry for his impeachment is growing; leading progressive in Congress are demanding answers,1 and 20,000 Americans have called for Bybee's impeachment [2] As The New York Times said: 'Mr. Bybee is unfit for a job that requires legal judgment and a respect for the Constitution. Congress should impeach him.' [3]
The calls to impeach Bybee are getting noticed—but Congress hasn't acted yet, and might not, unless we ramp up the call for accountability. There's a real chance Bybee will be held accountable, but only if we show Congress that if they lead, we'll support them.
1. "Pressure grows to impeach Bybee over 'torture memos,'" The Times of London, April 29, 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51375&id=16033-4553635-CSsEUTx&t=5
2. "Podesta Calls For Bybee Impeachment On CNN, Delivers Your Petitions To Congress," Think Progress, April 26, 2009 http://thinkprogress.org/2009/04/26/podesta-impeach-bybee/
3. "The Torturers' Manifesto," The New York Times, April 18, 2009 http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/19/opinion/19sun1.html?_r=1
["Barack Obama pisses off James Dobson"; submitted to You Tube by AntiConformist911 on June 30, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b52aT2chS-o]
Reverend Pat Robertson, who reputedly filled former President George Bush Jr.'s legal cabinet with religious (or pseudo-religious?) prodigies apparently said (MSNBC Contessa Brewer) - when the last Presidential election (potential candidates, etc) was still being tossed to and fro - that he would endorse Rudy Giuliani for president...
Now Reverend Pat Robertson is apparently (based on recently viewed You Tube videos) "toasting" Barack Obama as being Mr. Wonderful... and continuing on (Reverend Robertson) with his evangelising and "predictions" - as oodles of money (more than likely...) continues to stick to his behind like flies stick to those gooey icky things my mother used to hang around the house...
What is up with this stuff, folks?
We are moving closer, or so it would appear, to holding some of the members of the former Bush Jr. Administration responsible for what appears to be "less than ethical" (ahem) behavior...
But is anyone looking at these [Dobson, Robertson, others of the same ilk (I've got some particular folks in mind here - NOT all folks that are religious...)] guys?
Did you know that Reverend Pat Robertson, who once (possibly more than once) ran for President, reputedly received $14 MILLION dollars of YOUR tax money (prior to or during 2007) "to provide faith based service here and abroad?" (Michelle Goldberg, "The Rise of the Christian Nation"; "Freethought Today"; 3/2007; P. 10)?
Do you remember him raving and ranting about gays and Chavez?
Are you aware of the money this man allegedly exploited from the African people under the guise of evangelism? [Data can be provided...] --- or that Robertson's personal jet reputedly crashed when en route to a gambling casino?
What do you think (this is for the genuinely religious and/or spiritual - and those who are neither...) about this chameleon aspect of some of these mega-buck preachers? Do you think - as I do - that some of them should "maybe" be under some serious investigation (possibly for illegal donations, lobbying, etc.) too?
Whatever the case (I do hope I get some responses...) - I'm going to end this with a couple of quotes:
["Ron Paul Gets Unexpected Hillary Clinton Response"; as submitted to You Tube by votepaulkucinich2012 on April 29, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzjuJ2MG9jM]
Received via Email from NOW Media Relations
"Statement of NOW President Kim Gandy
President Barack Obama's first 100 days have brought real change for women.
Obama swiftly signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, repealed the Global Gag Rule, restored international family planning aid and acted to rescind Bush's harmful health care refusal rule. He also signed the reauthorization of the State Children's Health Insurance Program with important provisions for immigrant children, and created the White House Council on Women on Girls.
The administration has been responsive to advocates' concerns, including provisions in the economic recovery plan that will put women as well as men back to work. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis are particularly excellent advocates for women, and there are many women in important administration posts, though far from gender parity.
In just 100 days President Obama has begun reversing the extensive damage done to women's rights these last eight years, giving us an idea of what is possible with enlightened leadership. I look forward to many more victories for women and girls in the coming days and years."
Connecticut rally (at Wal-Mart) for Paid Sick Days:
["April 1st - Working Families rally for paid sick days"; as submitted to You Tube by luciusvideo on April 01, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBSWbjfLIfU]
From my email:
"It's scary. It's confusing. And we all want to do what health experts and government officials say will keep us safe.
But as the 'swine flu' claims more lives in Mexico, and the number of cases in the United States climbs, a lot of us can't do what officials recommend without losing a paycheck or a job.
'This is a serious event… If you have a fever and you're sick or your children are sick, don’t go to work and don't go to school.' That’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends.
It's good advice…until you consider that nearly half of private sector workers in the United States don't have a single paid sick day. It's even worse for low wage workers. And nearly 100 million workers don’t have a paid sick day they can use to care for a sick child.
We need paid sick days.
The Healthy Families Act would provide up to seven paid sick days a year so workers can take care of themselves or a sick family member. This modest bill will be introduced in Congress in May — and it needs the support of all Senate and House Members.
It's time to stop letting scare tactics by organized business interests block the progress we need...
Email your members of Congress today. Ask them to support the Healthy Families Act.
Let's give all workers a minimum standard of paid sick days.
Sincerely,
Debra L. Ness, President"
Source: National Partnership for Women & Families (info@nationalpartnership.org)
----------------------------------------------
For New York State You Would Send Your Emails to:
Senator Charles 'Chuck' E. Schumer Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Representative Maurice D. Hinchey
Direct Links are available through the http://www.spreadingourwings4.blogspot.com blog site
["NY Clergy Ask Legislators to Support Fair Share"; as submitted by FairTaxReform on March 26, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19aPAAH7MOE]
This video is posted with some inner conflict... for though it is great to see / hear some NY State Clergy speak out on behalf of tax reforms that would benefit (it appears) the poor... there are other members of the Clergy that don't appear to be too awfully concerned one way or the other... and some members of the clergy that make one wonder, as the song (by Three Non-Blonds) goes, "What's Up?"
Some churches are extremely "elegant" - to say the least - with some here in the City owning properties (with religious tax exemption status) over the 1 Million Dollar mark...
Should these churches (This would require legislative changes and such, to be sure) be taxed? Should these churches be taxed after they hit a certain monetary (often reflected in their property holdings) value?
Should the amount of people a church serves and how often and how "freely" minister to the community be a part of determining (along with the churches cumulative assets) whether a church (or other religious institution) is allowed full religious non-profit tax exemption, partial religious non-profit tax-exemption - or none?
There are certainly churches in the City of Kingston that are reaching out to the people, freely (or at very low cost) providing space for a lot of needed programs and otherwise staying involved in the community...
But there are also some churches in the City of Kingston that appear to be a bit exclusive... and there are some church properties - still on the City's religious tax exemption rolls (and the taxpayer's backs) that are actually sitting (some of this is big $$$$$ folks...) empty.
Which is an issue, along with the "good works" of some religious bodies (Thank you.) --- that I believe deserves a little "look see" around here...
What got me going on this sort of topic again?
Not the video, per se... Although it does strike me as ironic that the folks portrayed are speaking in beautiful "empty" churches about how "everyone" needs to chip in - in regard to taxes - during this economic crisis...
Instead, I was more provoked by a small article in Friday's "Daily Freeman" (DF) - titled, "New York Minister's Pay Package Causes Stir" (Associated Press; DF; 4/24/09; P. B5)
Quote:
"NEW YORK... The chairman of Manhattan's Riverside Church Council is defending the incoming senior minister's $600,000-plus salary package. Billy Jones says the Rev. Brad Braxton's pay package is comparable to those at similar-size congregations... It includes a $250,000 annual salary and $11,500 living allowance. It also covers housekeeping, entertainment, travel and personal development. And there's an annual payment into a fund for home purchase..."
Say "what?"
I don't expect ministers and such to live in hovels - but isn't the above a little beyond the beyond????? With the probable (although not absolute) factor of receiving religious tax-exempt status (in regard to income, housing, other?) as well...
Which leads me around to another topic I used to address more often... That being the necessity of (and, in many cases, the continued violation of) "separation of church and state."
Why?
Because this reveals that in at least some instances, religious folks that also engage in politics are quite likely (this is not an absolute) to have a serious TAX advantage over the regular politically minded guy or gal... who is more apt, in these cases, to have trouble (of course, other factors come into this, as well, like an already captive audience...) raising campaign funds - and/or to have their reputations smeared because they (trying to feed their family and campaign / run for office....) fell behind on their taxes at some point during their lifetime...
Fair is fair - and I think all of this deserves some serious scrutiny.
["Swine flu cases grow in number"; as submitted to You Tube by wavy on April 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c5hQhpzm2Q]
From: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (cdc@service.govdelivery.com) Sent: Sat 4/25/09 7:46 PM To: wingedbirdinflight@live.com
"CDC Swine Flu Investigation Continues: 11 Confirmed Cases in U.S."
"...As of April 25 at 7:30 PM ET, CDC has confirmed 11 human cases of swine flu in the United States: seven in California, two in Texas, and two in Kansas. CDC continues to investigate other suspected cases. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the infection and whether additional people have been infected with similar swine influenza viruses.
CDC is working very closely with state and local officials in California, Texas, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization. On April 24th, CDC deployed 7 epidemiologists to San Diego County, California and Imperial County, California and 1 senior medical officer to Texas to provide guidance and technical support for the ongoing epidemiologic field investigations. CDC has also deployed to Mexico 1 medical officer and 1 senior expert who are part of a global team that is responding to the outbreak of respiratory illnesses in Mexico.
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. There are many things you can to do to prevent getting and spreading influenza. Visit the CDC Swine Flu website [ http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ ]to learn more..." [A Direct Link Will Be Placed in the Sidebar.]
["Swine Flu Deaths Spur Global Epidemic Fears"; as submitted to You Tube by AssociatedPress on April 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGLtVelSNgI]
"WHO declares international concern over swine flu" by Frank Jordans, Associated Press [Published - Apr 25 2009 03:56PM EST]
"... The World Health Organization warned countries around the world Saturday to be on alert for any unusual flu outbreaks after a unique new swine flu virus was implicated in possibly dozens of human deaths in North America.
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said the outbreak in Mexico and the United States constituted a 'public health emergency of international concern.'
The decision means countries around the world will be asked to step up reporting and surveillance of the disease, which she said had 'pandemic potential' because it is an animal virus strain infecting people. But the agency cannot at this stage say 'whether or not it will indeed cause a pandemic,' she added.
Chan made the decision to declare public health emergency of international concern after consulting with influenza experts from around the world. The emergency committee was called together Saturday for the first time since it was created in 2007.
In theory, WHO could now recommend travel advisories, trade restrictions or border closures, none of which would be binding. So far it has refrained from doing so.
The agency also held off raising its pandemic alert level, citing the need for more information.
Earlier, Chan told reporters that 'it would be prudent for health officials within countries to be alert to outbreaks of influenza-like illness or pneumonia, especially if these occur in months outside the usual peak influenza season.'
'Another important signal is excess cases of severe or fatal flu-like illness in groups other than young children and the elderly, who are usually at highest risk during normal seasonal flu,' she said.
Several Latin American and Asian countries have already started surveillance or screening at airports and other points of entry.
At least 62 people have died from severe pneumonia caused by a flu-like illness in Mexico, WHO says. Some of those who died are confirmed to have a unique flu type that is a combination of bird, pig and human viruses. The virus is genetically identical to one found in California.
U.S. authorities said eight people were infected with swine flu in California and Texas, and all recovered.
So far, no other countries have reported suspicious cases, according to WHO.
But the French government said suspected cases are likely to occur in the coming days because of global air travel. A French government crisis group began operating Saturday. The government has already closed the French school in Mexico City and provided French citizens there with detailed instructions on precautions.
Chilean authorities ordered a sanitary alert that included airport screening of passengers arriving from Mexico. No cases of the disease have been reported so far in the country, Deputy Health Minister Jeanette Vega said, but those showing symptoms will be sent to a hospital for tests.
In Peru, authorities will monitor travelers arriving from Mexico and the U.S. and people with flu-like symptoms will be evaluated by health teams, Peru's Health Ministry said.
Brazil will 'intensify its health surveillance in all points of entry into the country,' the Health Ministry's National Health Surveillance Agency said in a statement. Measures will also be put in place to inspect cargo and luggage, and to clean and disinfect aircraft and ships at ports of entry.
Some Asian nations enforced checks Saturday on passengers from Mexico.
Japan's biggest international airport stepped up health surveillance, while the Philippines said it may quarantine passengers with fevers who have been to Mexico. Health authorities in Thailand and Hong Kong said they were closely monitoring the situation.
Asia has fresh memories of an outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, which hit countries across the region and severely crippled global air travel.
Indonesia, China, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries have also seen a number of human deaths from H5N1 bird flu, the virus that researchers have until now fingered as the most likely cause of a future pandemic.
The Dutch government's Institute for Public Health and Environment has advised any traveler who returned from Mexico since April 17 and develops a fever over 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (38.5 Celsius) within four days of arriving in the Netherlands to stay at home.
The Polish Foreign Ministry has issued a statement that recommends that Poles postpone any travel plans to regions where the outbreak has occurred until it is totally contained.
The Stockholm-based European Center for Disease Prevention and Control said earlier Saturday it shared the concerns about the swine flu cases and stood ready to lend support in any way possible."
Associated Press Writer Maria Cheng in London, and AP writers around the world contributed to this report.
Beautifuly music / tulips video accompanied by Barbara Streisands song, "The Way We Were"...
["Tulips, Tulips, Tulips"; as submitted to You Tube by judibug007 on February 26, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IQz5-oiUEg]
Quote for Today:
“...The genius of the Constitution rests not in any static meaning it might have had in a world that is dead and gone, but in the adaptibility of its great principles to cope with current problems and current needs... If we are to be as a shining city upon a hill, it will be because of our ceaseless pursuit of the constitutional ideal of human dignity."
William J. Brennan (born 4/25/1906) in a 1985 speech that rebutted "the desire of then-Attorney General Edwin Meese to 'resurrect the original meaning of constitutional provisions'" [news@ffrf.org]
[Photo of Jean Jacobs and 9th Ward Alderman Mike Madsen at the Obama Inauguration Party (Former Muddy Cup / Kingston)]
Three things:
My husband and I attended a fundraiser for 9th Ward Alderman Mike Madsen last night - and we found it to be a classy event with good company, good food and high hopes! Mike is a City Alderman plus - in our opinion - as he reaches out to - and serves the people in the City of Kingston in a number of ways - both Ward specific and (via his blog, his constant pursuit of knowledge, etc) in a larger sense of the word. Our thanks go out to Mike (politics, professionalism, integrity, warmth and kindness can all come together in one package) and to all of those that helped put on this inspiring event!
["Welcome to Congress, YouTube"; as submitted to You Tube by househub on January 11, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avch-fRFmbw ]
Some notable politicians (mostly local) at last night's event were U.C. Comptroller E. Aurerbach (sp?); U.C. Legislature D. Donaldson, U.C. Legislature J. Provenzano, K.C. Alderman T. Hoffay, K.C. Alderwoman S. Whitlock, a former Senatorial candidate (with more to come?)- and a bunch of others (local and statewide) whose names I don't fully know and/or don't trust myself to spell correctly! All in all (Why not come out and get to know some of these people better?) it was a great turnout!
["Ghostbusters Cartoon Intro"; as submitted to You Tube by mikey2455 on October 25, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xfwz2TRGss]
My old blog is now booked as http://www.spreadingourwings4.blogspot.com [The "4" is new]
This blog (where all future updates will be) is named "Flying Towards the Sun" but booked as http://www.flingingtowardsthesun.blogspot.com [Note the "flinging" / I guess I was having a bad WWW day!]
I apologize for any confusion this has caused. In this case the changes were NOT intentional, so I'll have to lay the blame (lol) on a "ghost in the machine."
If you note any errors here please let me know and I will promptly correct them!
["Great Spirit Prayer - Douglas Spotted Eagle - Native American"; as submitted to You Tube by katydidscorner on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dkP_vWEXHo]
As we teach our children well, the wells of life will be replenished...
["Mentally Ill Veterans Sent Back To War"; as submitted to You Tube by WCVBtv on November 12, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPNCrvKo7eU]
2. Lest we forget... [Graphic / Viewer Discretion Advised]
["cia torture in iraq tv3 nz"; as submitted by riverdean7 on December 13, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThyCwhjRXhg]
From 2008:
1. A student's report on the Geneva Convention...
["The Third Geneva Convention"; as submitted to You Tube by flybirdxz on March 16, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpJmLYf9yDc]
2. War and PTSD:
["War Veterans Suffer from PTSD"; as submitted to You Tube by NYPost on July 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0DMNpYa3dg]
3. Moving Along...
["Politics: MSNBC First 100 Days Edition"; as submitted to You Tube by TheNewYorkTimes on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbJsD7DBuM]
From 2009
Senator Sheldon and Rachel Maddow...
["Sheldon Applauds Obama for Releasing Torture Memos on MSNBCs Rachel Maddow Show"; as submitted to You Tube by SenatorWhitehouse on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo8zwqzt1pA]
["Doris Kearns Goodwin: What we can learn from past presidents"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on October 10, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgGmnHHlIXo]
["Barry Schwartz: The paradox of choice"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on January 16, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO6XEQIsCoM]
["Accountability for torture - Rachel Maddow pt 1"; submitted to You Tube by cheneywatch on April 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTQq9Ub-yNc]
["Reba McEntire-Fancy"; as submitted to You Tube by TOPaBOY on December 17, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_K6Y-YGZUec]
Soon to be Released...
["This One's For The Girls - Live In Concert"; as posted on You Tube by martinamcbride on April 08, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9nVoQpB7cE]
Passing This On (From My Email):
"DAILY WOMEN'S HEALTH POLICY REPORT...
OPINION | Abstinence-Only Sex Education Fails Teens, Texas Rep. Says in Opinion Piece [April 14, 2009]
The abstinence-only approach to sex education currently used in Texas schools and other states across the country "isn't working," Texas state Rep. Joaquin Castro (D), vice chair of the Texas House Committee on Higher Education, writes in a San Antonio Express-News opinion piece. Texas has the third highest teen birth rate in the nation -- 50% higher than the national average -- he notes, adding that increases across all "races and ethnicities ... demonstrate that the current lack of sexual health curriculum in our schools is seriously harming all of our children." Texas taxpayers spent $1 billion on teenage pregnancies and an estimated $15.1 billion over a 13-year period, according to a 2004 study by the National Campaign To Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, Castro writes.
"Despite these costs, 94% of students in Texas receive abstinence-only sexual education and, to date, more than $1 billion in federal funding has been spent on abstinence-only education," he adds. Texas ranks No. 1 in the amount of federal funding for "abstinence-only education dollars in the country -- more than $18 million" -- he writes. According to Castro, teens "need to know that we want them to stay in school and graduate, foster healthy communication with their peers and their parents, cultivate healthy living skills such as goal-setting and responsible decision-making about sexual health, and to leave parenting to later in life when they are emotionally and financially prepared." He adds that the Education Works Act (H.B 741) "will ensure that teens learn about abstinence, healthy relationships and appropriate birth control methods so that they can protect themselves from an unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted [infections] when they do become sexually active -- whether that is at age 16, 18 or 25."
A comprehensive sex education curriculum that gives medically accurate information to teens is needed because "[w]e can't continue failing teens by keeping important and lifesaving information about contraception from them," Castro writes. He concludes that "a curriculum based solely on abstinence and birth control failure rates isn't keeping Texas teens from becoming sexually active nor does it help avoid pregnancies or" STIs, adding that it "only makes it more difficult for teens to make healthy and informed life choices" (Castro, San Antonio Express-News, 4/9)" (National Partnership for Women & Families; http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/News2?abbr=daily2_&page=NewsArticle&id=16451&security=1201&news_iv_ctrl=-1
["Popeye - I Yam What I Yam - Robin Williams Shelley Duvall"; as submitted to You Tube by essexboi1993 on June 30, 2007; www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8TRoMSG-5I]
Every nobody is somebody. Every word spoken leaves many words unsaid. Every life that turns bitter is a pill all will have to swallow. Every lie told is a facet of shame that burdens all - not just the carrier - of mankind.
I am nobody, but somebody. "I am... what I am" - with a right to be, think, feel and form opinions - and to speak and write about the truth as I see it...
Like "Popeye" in a bar (minus spinach) - this blog (and my others) is where I "pull my punches" - "take my stand" - "am what I am."
'Tis a sad world that we live in today.
Full of conflicting messages...
Full of people attempting (in a variety of ways) to "sell" their fix or tricks...
Traumatic events occurring by the bucket load...
The less fortunate among us trying to "make it" - far too often - in any way they can...
The more fortunate among us trying - far too often - to make a profit off the exploitation (ignoring or pretending not to see the heartache and anguish that this creates) of others...
Every "system" (from the family to the government) - as Bob Dylan put it - "broken."
One must wonder; even the most hopeful among us, I would think...
What will the outcome of this ongoing "mess" be?
Will the collective consciousness of activism, recently inspired in some, be enough to pull us through?
Or is it really all about, as the saying goes, "the 'hokey pokey'"?
Are even the "players" being "played?"
Who is one to trust?
Is a crowd in a bar, loud and obnoxious at times... somehow more integral than a crowd in a boardroom?
"I am what I am."
Imperfect yet perfectionistic. Self-deprecating yet full of pride. Intelligent but impotent. One tiny bird in a mighty big sky...
You might like what I write and present here. You might not.
You might like what I have been able to accomplish in this lifetime. You might not.
But when you look in the mirror, please gaze at your own reflection...
Because when it comes to honesty, I'm pretty high up on the list - which is probably at least part of "why" I don't climb any ladders of influence or prosperity in this (the only one I'm familiar with) society...
Which is a "pretty sad statement...
Don't ya' think?
["Bob Marley - Redemption Song"; as submitted to You Tube by QueenRocker89 on August 24, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yXRGdZdonM]
["Rik Flynn of UlsterCorps on Community Service"; as submitted to You Tube by ulstercorps on March 15, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1J8aP6L-bg]
In the following write-up, on UlsterCorps and "volunteerism," a lot of organizations were ommitted due to space constraints and/or because my point HERE is to demonstrate (this blog write-up represents MY opinion, yours might differ) that a lot of purported "volunteer opportunities" could and should (?) be PAID POSITIONS - which could help (Do ya think?) our local economic situation (in terms of paid employment / the overall state of the economy) immensely!
Why are some organizations, some of which receive mega-bucks (through grants and such) not putting in budget-line requests to PAY for the number of PAID employees that they need? Do "you" think there is something "wrong" with this picture?
The following represents snippets that I "pulled out" of the overall listing (source noted down below) --- because a lot of these "volunteer" job titles sure sound like JOBS (I would include anything over 10 hours a week maximum, along with anything that requires extensive education, training or special expertise - in this category) to me...
At the end of this list are a couple of organizations seeking volunteers that seem (these two organizations) to have a much more rational [a few hours a week max) - fair - and/or viable (the last one has a reciprocal component) concept of just what volunteerism is (again, my opinion) meant to be...
Check out the following [note the items in bold (my doing)] and tell me what you think:
"AFFORDABLE/TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
FAMILY’s Midway of Kingston & Ellenville...
Volunteers needed for projects including painting all kids’ rooms and offices, gardening/landscaping in the spring, driving kids to laundry services, grocery shopping, job opportunities, medical appointments, etc. tutoring, both college level and high school, any extra curricular activities in the community, like movies, meals, theater, parks, swimming, etc...
Family Inn...
Needs fill-ins for weekends, evenings, and overnights. Possibly a 20-hour part-time overnight position 2 overnights a week...
EDUCATION/ARTS
Ulster Literacy Association Tutor Training Workshop...
The ULA student waiting list has reached 100! This means all these folks are waiting patiently to meet a tutor and get started on building their reading, writing and conversational skills. We really need volunteers and have two new trainings scheduled:
Over 3 Saturdays, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 8:30-3:30 on all dates. Tuesdays & Thursdays May 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, 6:00-9:00PM on all dates...
Workshop train adult volunteers to work in a one-to-one tutoring situation with adults who want to improve their reading and writing skills. There is a fee (You pay a "fee" for the "privilege" of volunteering?) of $20.00 to cover the cost of material and handouts. This is due at the time you sign up for a specific workshop.
Volunteers also needed to cover the front desk, handle the phone, and other office tasks...
UCCAC, Inc. Early Head Start/Head Start is searching for volunteers throughout Ulster County. The Kingston Childrens Learning Center... is especially in need of volunteers for the classroom...
United Way Ulster County - Volunteer Opportunities...
Loaned Executives, Employee Campaign Managers, Community Fund Volunteers Loaned Executives serve as United Way ambassadors to local businesses. In this capacity they: Teach employees and employers about United Way programs and services Assist Employee Campaign Managers to set United Way campaign goals and plan campaign strategy Coordinate United Way presentations Distribute United Way materials Employee Campaign Managers (ECM’s) are volunteers within companies that work closely with Loaned Executives to present information about the United Way to their fellow employees. Community Fund Volunteers are responsible for reviewing requests for funding, and then making recommendations to the Board of Directors of the United Way of Ulster County...
Center for Creative Education... Kingston Location... Stone Ridge Location...
The mission of the Center for Creative Education is to create a better world by nurturing and empowering youth and community through the arts. The Kingston center offers a dance and percussion studio, homework and tutoring center, and a computer music lab that is being developed in collaboration with the Kingston School District’s Department of Fine Arts and Enrichment. Volunteers needed for office help, clean-up, and event assistance.
Hudson River Maritme Museum...
Year round & seasonal volunteers needed - Museum Admission and Gift Shop Clerks, Docent, Computer Specialist, Grant Administrator...
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Family of Woodstock - Ways to Volunteer
Volunteer training program for work on 24 Hour Hotline. 3-hour shifts. Days, eves, weekends. Also Food Closet, Holiday programs...
HITS season begins May 20th. Volunteers needed to staff our Spectator gates during our Horse Shows (???). All proceeds from the gate go directly to Family of Woodstock. More info...
Bilingual Volunteers Needed at FAMILY’s ACMS...
Salvador Altamirano-Segura, program director of Family’s Adult Case Management Services (ACMS), has recently asked for volunteers to help enroll Spanish speaking clients in the Food Stamps Program. As a community based organization, we are able to submit client applications electronically from our sites. He is looking for volunteers to help with his Spanish speaking clients...[Wouldn't this be a great part time or full time job for Those with BiLingual (special) Skills?]
Additional Volunteer Opportunities at Family GREEN ENERGY/SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainable Hudson Valley...
Volunteers needed to help SHV with communications and outreach, research support, office help or fundraising... Database manager — data entry and database setup, Excel knowledge required (approx 3 hours/ week, can do from your location) Graphic designer — design print and web materials, work closely with highly skilled design director (one project or a stream of them — lots to do)Outreach volunteers — staff SHV information tables with material on all our programs (flexible, lots of evenings & weekends possible)Media monitors — if you are an avid reader of specialized media related to sustainability or the Hudson Valley, let us know and send us relevant clippings to feed our information-hunger
Hudson Valley Materials Exchange... HVME is in desperate need of volunteers to help us finish our move. Help moving materials, painting inside of storage trailers, outreach and fundraising are needed. our most immediate need is help moving materials and painting.
HEALTH SERVICES...
American Red Cross, Ulster County Chapter - Volunteer Opportunities... Disaster Response Team Member, General Office Support, Health & Safety Volunteer Instructors, Leadership Committee Volunteers, Volunteer Administration Specialist, Volunteer Intake Specialist, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist.
Health Alliance - Benedictine Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
Hospice, Inc...
Volunteers needed for office work, delivery of medications, provide respite care, etc...
Health Alliance - Kingston Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
New Paltz Rescue Squad...
The Rescue Squad is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization that provides our community with professional, pre-hospital emergency care. Volunteers needed as ambulance drivers, EMTs and paramedics...
Ulster-Greene ARC
Volunteers needed to assist developmentally disabled adults with social activities and companionship...
LEGAL SERVICES
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ulster County Looking for volunteer advocates. Volunteers are assigned by Family Court to advocate for children in foster care. Advocates work with child and family...
Much more equitable - fair and impressive (in terms of the way in which I understand "volunteerism" - in my opinion:
1.
Gardiner Library Station Sq/Gardiner 255-1255 Volunteers for the following library jobs would be greatly appreciated. The time frames below are suggestions. Putting plastic covers on new books - One hour monthly Deleting outdated magazines from system - One hour monthly Looking through newspapers and clipping articles about the library - One hour monthly Circulation Desk Help Workers at the circulation desk are always welcome. We especially need help in the evening hours. You can come every week or once a month. You decide what works for you! http://www.rcls.org/gar/
2.
Woodstock Time Bank PO Box 783, Woodstock, NY 12498 845-679-4211, woodstocktimeexchange@hotmail.com http://www.timebanks.org/ For every hour you spend doing something for someone in your community, you earn one Time Dollar. Then you have a Time Dollar to spend on having someone do something for you. To join: visit http://community.timebanks.org, click on Find a Timebank, scroll down to Woodstock Timebank, click Join!
["Save Big Money on Your Property Taxes: Fight Your Assessment"; as submitted to You Tube by sequenceinc on December 18, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxw6GB0gv68]
For Some Wisdom and Direction in These Trying Times, Check Out [These Links Will Be Placed in the Sidebar]:
"The best and worst states for taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/Advice/TheBestAndWorstStatesForTaxes.aspx
"The best and worst state for gas, cigarettes, beer and sales taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/best-and-worst-taxes-by-state.aspx
The Muse Myth and Other Musing about Writing
-
Anyone who believes the drunk author fallacy that alcohol fuels great
writing is just a drunk looking for an excuse to drink. Hemingway was a
mentally il...
Liberty Metals Group Review
-
Liberty Metals Group is a company that sells precious metals products. But
according to Yelp and their Better Business Bureau page, they've gone out
of b...
Ebook Download User Guide Manual For Windows 10
-
Ebook Download User Guide Manual For Windows 10
When one is encountered to the issues, several choose to seek the
inspirations and amusement by reading. Ar...
Please find our events on Facebook
-
For our current initiatives and events, check us out on Facebook or join
our mailing list. This site is outdated and currently under redevelopment.
Coming ...
The Voters Have a Right to Know
-
The Ulster Town Board is holding a special meeting this Tuesday to decide
whether to grant FOIL requests to release a police dash cam video of a
traffic st...
Congratulations to Nobel Laureate Richard Thaler!
-
It should surprise no one, and delight everyone, that Richard Thaler has
won this year’s Nobel in economics. Congratulations! Thaler is a big reason
I pe...
Adjust contrast of a pdf free
-
Closer to the eye of the shooter, this is because Preview is quite
literally applying a filter to each individual page of the PDF you are
saving. the proce...
This is not good for Children
-
The Texas Legislature has a bill in front of it that would allow not only
faith-based adoption agencies but all others to refuse to allow Jewish,
Muslim or...
Election 2015
-
Is it me, or is this like the third year running that while trying to find
election results all we get from the UC Board of Elections page is this?
For hou...
BROADWAY TREES
-
So, who is responsible for the maintenance of the trees along our Broadway
corridor?
Oh, thats right. We have a tree commission don't we?
...
Ulster County 2015 Tax Lien Foreclosure Report
-
We are once again at that time of year when the County is faced with the
unenviable task of auctioning off properties to meet tax obligations. It is
not on...
Memorial Day 2013
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IMHO, the best way to remember and honor our fallen men & women in uniform
is to practice democracy. The concepts of "liberty and justice for all"
means fo...
Ellis Island - Baggage and Dormitory Building
-
View of one of the many dorm areas which comprise the bulk of the Baggage
and Dormitory building; during its peak, this area would have held as many
beds...
Gov. Christie to Keynote GOP Convention
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Gov. Chris Christie will keynote this year's GOP convention. While I am
supporting Barack Obama and hope very much so he is reelected in November,
I en...
A Bit of a Twist
-
Events in town recently have been much like the past winter's snowfalls,
'few & far between', but like politics, less is often more. In the case of
the Tow...
Proposed New York Senate and Assembly Districts
-
Well folks the State as done it. I present to you links for both the New
York State Assembly Districts and New York State Senate Districts.
Ulster County ...
We're back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-
*Are you tired of Blaber, MoJo, Cahill, Clark and the rest of the bloggers
of Ulster County? Well back by popular demand your Fishbowl is here again!*
*St...
Kevin Cahill Remembers Dietrich Werner
-
Dietrich's wife, Gayle is asking that in lieu of flowers for Dietrich, that
donations be made in his name to the Century House.
Below is a link where donat...
Czars to oversee Czars
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*The problem with talking about things is that sometimes you give people
ideas that they may never have thought of. Like when you are talking to
kids abo...
Did You Know?
-
Did You Know? Kingston Community Radio has an archive of past shows, which
can be found on the website here. The most recent show features county
executive...
Stop the smear of Schneer
-
This was in the Kingston Times 9/30/09
Stop the smear of Schneer
Less than 24 hours after Judge Deborah Schneer won confirmation as our next
Ulster County ...
Top Ten Things Overhead at the Board of Elections
-
10. Acceptance? I need to file what? Nobody told me about that.
9. I didn't know that petitions had to be filed by July 16.
8. I don't have enough signatu...
[Photo Passed On By My Mother...; Beautiful, Isn't It?]
