Upcoming Meetings and Events... WTWM... SUSN... Input Welcome...

City of Kingston Backdrop

On the Wall in the Council Chambers

Kingston City Hall

Photo by NS

A number of upcoming meeting announcements - upcoming Holiday events - and more [occurring in the City of Kingston, but not necessarily directly or even indirectly officially attached to official City business]  - have been posted in the sidebar >>>>>

Amongst these are:

An organizational meeting to garner ideas about addressing the sporadic violence in MidTown...

A Public Hearing on the "Save Them Now" proposal (as recently / see below / addressed...) [This one is at City Hall...]

And two early January meetings that I am hosting - in accordance with White House regulations - regarding Community employment issues...

Your imput here - particularly around community safety and employment issues - is welcome and encouraged!

For now...

Consider how you can...

"Walk Tall Without Malice"
(WTWM)...

And...

Ask yourself...

"What will it take to...

 'Save US Now'"?
(SUSN)

Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,

NS

Prison Early Release Issue... You Tube Videos... Local Violence Prevention Efforts... Save US Now...

Something to Think About...

["Prison early release programs are back"; as submitted to You Tube by WTNH on December 04, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaKylUCK_9Y]

["Judge Rules That Early Release Prison Program Is Illegal"; as submitted to You Tube by 27newsfirst on May 01, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c39liG1jtzw]

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On the Local Front:

Having talked with a couple of the people, from different generations - who appear to be "in the know" - the word is that the "Black" (Please give me the word of your choice...) community, for the most part, does not appreciate being referred to as "colored"; and thus, some of them have an inherent issue (from the get-go) with the "National Alliance for the Advancement of 'Colored' People" (NAACP) - one of the organizations (I don't know if there are any other organizations with their name in the hat, as of yet...) that is apparently going to add their input to the "Stop the Violence" (midtown)  organizational meeting.

This leads me to believe that the people in the target community should be asked if there is an empowerment term (for those in this community that feel disempowered and threatened by the violence in their community (whether they be black, white, Hispanic or other) that might work [I have thought of WTWM (Corrected / Duh...  I screwed up my own acronym!)  and/or  "Walk Tall Without Malice" (I consider this a copyright notice.)] for them?

Other thoughts that occur, regarding this upcoming organizational meeting - include the following proposed priorities:

1.  How do we best protect and positively engage the children in the community?
2.  How do we identify the strengths in the community and capitalize on these?
3.  How do we identify the problem areas and a solution to the gang (Is PTSD an issue?) situation?
4.  How do we get the individuals that are interested and willing (Perhaps this should be the first priority?) involved in (via Community Groups, attending City meetings, etc.) the political process?

I've been told that the Church is very influential in the mid-City, and that is (in my opinion) a positive thing - as long as a non-violent empowerment theme is associated - and the necessary (in my opinion) separation of church and state factors are in place.

I do not know where any of this stands.  It is another question, perhaps, to address to the population itself.

Some KPD officers are (as I understand it) remaining at the High School under the 2010 Budget - and I consider this (along with the videocameras) a positive.

However, it would seem to me that these KPD (another correction; I guess you can tell the stress is getting to me as well...) officers could use a little help in regard to touching on the issues that are periodically (at least) wreaking havoc in Mid-Town - and that it might bode the school (and the students well) to let organizations --- such as the U.C. Crime Victims Assistance Program, those that employ certified Domestic Violence Education and Awareness Educators, those that employ Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselors and those that employ qualified Gang Awareness Educators (etc.) --- come in.

This used to be one facet of the Youth Empowerment Series (YES) Program that I was associated with when I worked for the YWCA --- and it was incredibly difficult, at times, to get permission (these services were free of charge to the schools...) to go into the schools - so I hope a new push could be implemented in that (YES!) direction...

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Save US Now!

Other than that, the fact that the "Save Them Now" program is once again trying to set up an expanded [they already have some sort of facility uptown...] temporary housing facility / job training facility for former jail inmates and/or prison inmates (?) - in the City of Kingston [the last attempt was in a residential area; this attempt involves a building in a commercial area just off Broadway] - has me a little "bugged out."

And I wonder how many citizens, in the City of Kingston, would be into forming a group called "Save US Now! (SUSN) - another term I'll claim the copyright to! 

And I AM serious!

There is some sort of facility uptown already...
Broadway does not need anymore "potential" problems than it already has...
The area might be commercial, but it is the main drag in the City of Kingston with lots of walkers, including school children...

It is my opinion that these types of programs should go INTO the jails and prisons - if they aren't (and I believe they are...) already there!  [Don't we hear (I know I have) about folks in jail and/or prison having support-group meetings (AA/NA/Other) in-house?  Getting their GED whilst there?  Receiving vocational training?  Etc?????]  Why do they need additional services [This whole society is "transitioning" folks!] when they get out?

See, a lot of US folks out here - that haven't ever found ourselves [We are probably doing something right...  Right?]  sitting in a jail or prison cell - are getting a "little" upset with the number of sex offenders, rapists, etc that are already situated all over our city - putting children and women (in particular) at heightened risk - most of whom (yes, I know, all ex-cons are not offenders of this sort...) are living on our tax dollars AND receiving better medical benefits [via Medicaid and/or associated programs] than we are!

Save US Now!

Save US Now! --- From this constant drain on the system --- this constant strain of being surrounded by potential preditors --- this constant onslaught of (excuse me, sorry...) Bullsh*%!

A much better use for a building in Kingston's COMMERCIAL district?

Hey! 

How about a Business?????

How about a Factory?????

How about SAFE and AFFORDABLE Child Care Facility (fingerprinting and record check for employees required...) that would enable some of the folks in Mid-Town (and other areas of the city) to get and maintain a job?

How about a facility [Anyone want to chip in funds - on the books - for such a project?] for Save US Now [SUSN]?

Sure, some of this is "tongue in cheek"...

I'm human.  I'm not perfect.  I'm limited in what I can personally do...

But my ideas are worth something - as are everyone elses - and as the old Helen Reddy song said (so very well...) - mine is "wisdom born of pain", and I'll "roar" (or at least post my ideas) - if and when I can - when such appears (to me) to be called for!

[According to the article in today's Sunday Freeman there will be Public Hearing on the Save Them Now proposal on 12/14/09 - at City Hall - at 6PM; which will be followed up by a meeting (regarding this issue) of the Planning Board.]

Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,

NS

Sources: 

"Post-prison Program sets sight on Mid-town Kingston building..." - "The Daily Freeman News Serving the Hudson Valley since 1871(DailyFreeman.com)": http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/12/06/news/doc4b1b3e579dd99598381651.txt

"Kingston police officers will stay in schools" - "The Daily Freeman News Serving the Hudson Valley since 1871(DailyFreeman.com)": http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/12/06/news/doc4b1b409d2665c646739475.txt

Maya Angelou... Still I Rise... You Tube Video

I like to provide an array of information here, from a wide range of sources; and poets have always inspired me.

[ "Maya Angelou - Still I Rise"; as submitted to You Tube by PennyMarieSwallow91 on June 24, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4FLuo2oyhI ]

Sigmund Freud once said (to this effect/possibly not exact): "Anywhere I go, I find a poet has been there before me."

So, as I contemplate what I might be able to bring to the table - in regard to stopping the violence in Midtown - I contemplate both my own soul - and the souls of others - as they have expressed "same."
 
Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,
 
NS

Photos from the Last City Council Meeting... Best Wishes to Mike Madsen... Learning How to Use a New Formatting Tool... Bear With Me...

Photos from the last City Council Meeting.

The Mayor's 2010 Budget - With Some Modifications - Has Since Been Passed [Common Council Vote 7/2] --- and signed by Mayor Sottile ["Sottile signs Kingston budget"; "The Daily Freeman News Serving the Hudson Valley since 1871(DailyFreeman.com)"; http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/12/05/news/doc4b19f0fa75859133790438.txt ]

Best Wishes to Alderman Madsen ! 

[Moving on to the 2010 UC Legislature District 6]

Wierd Photo Effect... Violent Sex Offender... Have You Checked the Registry Lately...

I took this photo outside a registered sex offenders residence [He may or may not still reside there] - editing the house itself [probably not appropriate to post here...] out of the picture - and focusing in on the [Glare?  Shadow?  (Smiley face?????)]. 

Now, if I were superstitious -  what do you suppose this wierd photography effect [a violent sexual predator lives in - or lived in - this residence] might  be "saying" (so to speak) to me?

[Some folks I care about recently moved to this neighborhood --- I did a check on the NYS Sex Offender Registry --- and walla ---  ARE THEY EVERYWHERE? (Innocent enough looking place; but then, that's how it goes...  Eh?)]

NS

Cahill Grant... Separation of Church and State... No Chapter 9 Bankruptcy... My Thoughts... Your Thoughts... Oh What a Wicked Web...

[Photo by NS]

Excuse me, but...

The City of Kingston is apparently existing on borrowed money [a huge bond, actually]...

Some City of Kingston representatives are seriously considering a Chapter Nine Bankruptcy - which will - as I understand it - reduce all of our services to the very basics [police, fire, sanitation, basic needs, safety needs...] and bring in [if I understand this right] a State audit...

And --- I pick up today's "Daily Freeman" [online link provided below] to discover that Assemblyman Kevin Cahill has secured a $2.15 million dollar grant to renovate [one building, to reputedly employ 25 "permanent staff members", serve 50 children, provide basketball and other sports facilities for Catholic youth, host a food pantry, and provide offices for Catholic Charities - at the old St. Peter's School?

2.15 Million Dollars!?!

For ONE building [which is going to be duplicating (in essense) a lot of other services (religious and non) that are already in place...] in a City [... in a state? ... in a nation?] that is facing potential bankruptcy?

What - might I ask - is UP with THAT? [My blog... my opinions...]

The organizations involved - apparently benefiting (in some manner) from collaborating on this project and receiving this grant - include:

1. The Catholic Archdiocese of New York
2. St. Mary's Parish
3. St. Peter's Parish
4. The Catholic Youth Organization (C.Y.O); and...
5. Agri-Business Child Development

To what ends?

The Catholic Archdiocese of New York seems to be doing quite well for itself [in terms of money, power and influence...] already.

St. Mary's Parish appears to be doing quite well for itself (comparative to a lot of other religious and non-religious organizations locally) already.

St. Peter's Parish [if this even made logical sense...] is [in my opinion] in a very bad location for this type of project / renovation.

The CYO apparently serves only Catholic youth - providing (in the US) mainly prayer, missionary and sports programs for young Catholics that have --- according to the writeup in "Wikipedia" --- been (this, in regard to the sports programs) deemed: "so competitive that CYO has been jokingly described as 'Crush Your Opponents'" ["Catholic Youth Organization"; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Youth_Organization; 12/3/09]

Agri-Business Child Development apparently only provides early education services [inclusive of Migrant & Agricultural Workers Programs and Seasonal Head Start Programs] to children [aged 6 weeks to school age] to families that meet the following eligibility criteria:

a. They must be the children of migrant, seasonal and/or agricultural / farm workers

b. They must also meet certain finalial eligibility requirements; and...

c. They must meet a host of other eligibility criteria - narrowing the field of potentialities considerably... along with [I would say...] duplicating services that the City and/or County already has in place... [http://www.agri-business.org/whoweare.html; http://www.agri-business.org/missionvisionvalues.html; http://www.agri-business.org/eligibilitycriteria.html]

----------------------------------------------------

A nearly bankrupt city...

A 2.15 Million Dollar Grant for the renovation [etc] of one building that will apparently be serving a very select population that is already being served [and/or certainly could be served...] by other community organizations [that have no "religious missionary" ends in mind...].

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And --- might there be some other potential problems in this mix?

Former President George W. Bush Jr. - via executive order [12/12/02] - granted some special privileges to religious orders; including:

The right to discriminate - in regard to religion - when hiring employees.

Carey Construction of Kingston [Did bids go out on this? Do grants of this nature require taking the lowest bid out of a number of bids? Is there religious discrimination in regard to hiring in this mix? [Carey Construction apparently did the restoration work on City Hall (Why not City Employees?) as well...] has [back to Carey Construction...] apparently already been named the "prime contractor" for the local [St. Peters...] renovation...

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No more Bush Jr.

Right?

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But the Congressional Budget Office [in the early 1990s] estimated that "the cost to the government of Faith-Based-related programs" [The above reflects a mix, but an off-balance mix, to be sure...] would topple over the $13 Billion mark by 2011.

["Bush Orders Faith-Based Initiative Forward... Faith-based groups can hire based in religion"; Dateline: 12/13/02; Longley, Robert; About.com US Government Info; http://usgovinfo.about.com/library/weekly/aa121302.HRM?P=1]

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In July 2008, President Barack Obama (via Executive Order) modified and extended the Office of Faith Based Initiatives - renaming it the "Faith-Based Community Service Plan" and/or the "White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships" - with modifications that included the following:

1. Secular Community Service Organizations were to be granted equal chances [in tandem with Faith-Based Programs] to obtain grants.

2. Stronger prohibitions were put in place prohibiting "faith-based organizations" from utilizing their programs for proselytizing or religious instruction

3. Prohibitions against discrimination in regard to potential and/or in facto program participants were put in place.

4. "'Best practices' benchmarks and a periodic evaluation of every such program based on "same" were put in place.

5. A $500 Million Dollar (per year) plan "for a summer literacy program... for one million children from low-income families each year" - was added on.

[Deborah White, About.com; "Barack Obama's Faith-Based Community Service Plan"; http://jsliberals.about.com/od/faithinpubliclife/a/ObamaFthBsd.html; 12/3/09]

---------------------------------------------------

Now, what does all of that mean in looking at the current fiscal situation and the faith-based and secular organizations in our City?

What does this say about this $2.15 Mil. Grant for the renovation, etc. of St. Peters?

----------------------------------------------------

For me it means that I have moved my position --- from someone that was starting to think [after attending a lot of related City / Municipality / Citizen-based meetings; listening, with an open mind to all parties involved; staying up to date on the news; engaging in note taking and my own (at times extensive) research --- that the Chapter 9 Bankruptcy option might be the best way for the City of Kingston to go [in regard to the 2010 Budget Crisis] --- to someone that is 100% AGAINST the idea of the City of Kingston filing for a Chapter 9 Bankruptcy!

----------------------------------------------------

Why?

Because the deck appears to be stacked any way you look at it...

The rules we live by certainly don't appear to be fair and equitable... [But could be WORSE!]

Safety, infrastructure, education and the maintanence of our basic human rights are (for me) priority issues...

And - after reading about this grant?????

I believe we must maintain our secular government options and services AT ALL COSTS - so as not to leave the door open so wide that our education and service programs --- are allowed to become monopolized by any religious body (s) or organization (s) in this City!

---------------------------------------------------

It is stated, in Barack Obama's "Faith-Based Community Service and Literacy Plan" that any organization that receives Federal grant monies from "same" can only "use taxpayer dollars on secular programs and initiatives" - that these organizations cannot discriminate in hiring or in providing services - and that these organizations cannot "use federal funds to proselytize or provide religious sectarian instruction" [Deborah White, About.com; "Barack Obama's Faith-Based Community Service Plan"; http://jsliberals.about.com/od/faithinpubliclife/a/ObamaFthBsd.html; 12/3/09].

--------------------------------------------------

To wrap up...

Take a look at the state that the City of Kingston is in.

Take a look at the state that the State of New York is in.

Take a look at the state that the United States of America is in.

Take a look at what "separation of church and state" ["US Constitution" and "Bill of Rights" is (or should be?) all about...

And ask yourself if the following individuals - appointed in Feb 2009 by President Barack Obama to the "White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships" - reflect the necessary diversity - at the highest (not to mention local issues...) levels (?) --- or whether this White House Office has continued to take us all down a track that could lead --- if unchecked at the local, state and federal levels --- to a total societal breakdown and a religious [Do you like your human rights? Your freedom of choice? Your ability to express your opinions? Your ability to participate in a Democracy? The freedom to choose your own faith (or non) and practice same?] dictatorship...

-----------------------------------------------

Members (when first initiated; these were initially one year terms) of the "White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships" Council:

A. Representing Religious Bodies:

1. Joshua DuBois [Advisor to the President; Campaign Director of Religious Affairs; Former Associate Pastor]

2. Father Larry J. Snyder [Catholic Charities USA (President); Alexandria, West Virginia.

3. Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie [African Methodist Episcopal Church (Presiding Bishop /
13th Episcopal District); Knoxville, TN]

4. Dr. Frank S. Page [Southern Baptist Convention (President Emeritus); Taylors, SC]

5. Dr. William J. Shaw [National Baptist Convention, USA (President); Philadelphia, PA]

6. Reverend Otis Moss Jr. [Olivet Institutional Baptist Church (Pastor Emeritus); Cleveland, Ohio]

7. Reverend Jim Wallis [Sojourners (President and Executive Director); Washington DC]

8. Pastor Joel C. Hunter ["Senior Pastor, Northland, a Church Distributed); Lakeland FL]

9. Rabbi David N. Saperstein [Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and "noted" [Without bias?] "church/state expert" (Director and Counsel of...); Washington, DC]

10. Eboo S. Patel [Interfaith Youth Corps (Founder and Executive Director); Chicago, IL]

11. Melissa Rogers [Wake Forest School of Divinity Center for Religion and Public Affairs and [Without bias?] "expert on church/state issues"; Winston-Salem, NC]

12. Richard Steams [World Vision (President); Bellevue, Washington]http://www.worldvision.org/content.nsf/getinvolved/church-faith

--------------------------------------------

B. Representing Secular and/or Intermediary Bodies:

1. Judith N. Vredenburgh [Big Brothers / Big Sisters of America (President and Chief Executive Officer); Philadelphia, PA]

2. Fred Davie [Public/Private Ventures, a "secular non-profit intermediary" (President); New York, New York]

3. Dr. Arturo Chaez [Mexican-American Cultural Center (President and CEO); San Antonio, TX]

4. Diane Baillargeon [Seedco, "a secular national operating intermediary" (President / CEO); New York, New York]

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See, it sure looks to me (from the onset) like the game plan of this White House Office [I still "love" Obama (in the best sense of the word) --- but I think he needs to "step up to the plate" in some areas...) was 12 organizations representing religious bodies --- versus 4 organizations with alleged secular and/or intermediary missions [headed up by persons whose faith alliance (if any) is currently un-known].

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Whatever the case [Let it be known that I am not anti-religious or opposed to any particular body of faith...] --- it is my opinion that:

1. The Federal, State and Local Government should be providing ample funds for our infrastructure, our safety, our children's education and our (multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, multi-faith and non-religious) citizens - with no special interests [religious or non] taking center stage - PERIOD.

2. This 2.15 Million Grant secured by Assemblyman Cahill [always associated with some ever-elusive "Friends of Public Access" (FOPA) mega-grant, as well...] for the renovation etc. of St. Peters is way out of line to begin with - and is especially so in light of the City, County, State and Federal fiscal crisis! And...

3. To return to where I started...

That the City of Kingston (a secular municipality that has bodies of faith associated with it) should NOT file for Chapter 9 Bankruptcy when this would potentially give all of the money and power in this City to the Catholic (and/or other faith bodies, whom I do not have this degree of data on...) Church!

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Sources:

"Daily Freeman" Article: http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/12/03/news/doc4b1743808aa49059359163.txt

"St Peters Cahill Grant to breathe new life into former St. Peter’s School"; http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/2009/December09/03/StPeters_conv-03Dec09.html

Others are as noted in the writeup...

And many other sources exist (although none perhaps as great as those within your own heart, mind and soul...) as well.

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As always, feel free to correct me (I will check your input out) -- and or update me (ditto).

NS

Update...

[Photo by BF; Utilized with Permission]

Long day. Late night. Lots of newsy items I'd like to post...

But, I'm going to stick to this:

1. The only major issue (amongst the City Council Members themselves) at Tuesday night's City Council meeting already hit the papers (the "Daily Freeman" / the leaf pick-up issue...) - which I also addressed already - in a silly way perhaps - below.

2. The Kingston Uptown Residents Alliance (KURA) representatives that spoke during the open session were notably impressive [Some of you might have taken the KURA survey?] --- as were the other individuals that showed up to speak.

3. I brought my own ideas [nothing that will help with this Budget, but that might be applicable in regards to the future...) "to the table" as well - and I took some photos that will hopefully make it onto this site (with more details) tomorrow...

4. But - I've got to try and prioritize my personal life while I'm at it - so I have to return to doing "what I can, when I can, where I can" - and pat myself on the back for contributing more on behalf of my fellow citizens and my country (one more voice is one more voice) than I have ever done before.

I made a promise to myself at the beginning of 2009 - and I have kept that promise.

I have been my own experiment - in a sense - and a fairly successful one [You will hear more about this in January 2010] - at that.

Am a ducking out now? Absolutely not.

Do I need to moderate things and get my life back into some semblance of balance? Absolutely yes.

For those of you who have followed my blogs from the beginning - or know more about me via other sources - you know that I'm a small-town girl [birthed to generational farm families and generational poverty plus...] that wandered into the woods pretty deep - dealt with my share of wolves in granny gear - and survived some odds that that left me [although I prefer the word eccentric...] a bit odd...

That said, please remember, if you will (I've seen this on bumper stickers and such) that "Not all who wander are lost..."

Some of us do find our way back to ourselves [even if it is with all of our "warts" (so to speak) intact...] --- which is the only place (the self) where integrity [a dedication to the truth, even when the truth is excrutiatingly painful...] can be born.

More tomorrow.

Peace,

NS

Common Council Meeting [Correction Made]... Goats.... You Tube Video... Thoughts from the Sidelines... YES Mayor Sottile...

["Need a Lawnmower? How 'bout a Goat?"; as submitted to You tube by AssociatedPress on
May 19, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP8m4HbyzhI]

I don't know what the City Code might be when it comes to goats; or for sure, that goats eat dead leaves - but when I heard that a [Correction: $100 fine (much better than $500, but still too high in my opinion...)] might be imposed, starting next year, on folks that don't bag their leaves - goats (I have a vivid imagination...) started to look like a good topic to google!

Bonus points if goats "do" eat leaves:

1. Baby goats are adorable & kids love them

2. Goats don't belch (to my knowledge) any nasty carbon pollutants into the atmosphere

3. The cost per goat rental (as noted in the video above) appears to be pretty low, and...

4. The goats could be kept (when not busy mowing lawns, devouring leaves and composting lawns) in a petting zoo --- along with some other cute little creatures --- which would draw families and children in [to feed them extra nutritious treats?] when they [the goats and the families...] are off duty.

A [Correction: $100 (much better than $500, but still too high in my opinion...)] fine for not bagging your leaves?????

Don't you think that might be another link in the line of links that sends grandma or grandpa [perhaps they broke a hip? have a medical emergency?] over the edge?

Small stuff... Big stuff...

Thinking outside the Rubik cube...

I LIKE goats (I had one as a child) - and I think the YMCA park [Could the City or County buy this?] could use a regular mower or two or (lol, lol, lol) even [changed to 100]!

And of course, there would be free flood water (at least periodically)too [See other posts about the unresolved flooding issue near the YMCA park...] - as long as (but of course) the flood-water is as safe for goats to drink as it must be (ahem...????) for our "kids" to play in...

Herein ("methinks") exists an educational opportunity [Bring in Cornell Cooperative Extension?] and some potential P/T jobs for youth - or anyone for that matter - that would like to see the YMCA park [one potential location, only utilized for youth programs occasionally, from what I can see...] get some serious, productive, consistent [a petting zoo plus...] use.

Do goats eat dead leaves?

I don't remember; but I suspect so [Our goat ate pretty much anything...]

So why not line a park [Other folks probably have location ideas of their own...] with some beautiful trees (very reasonable if folks join up with the Arbor Day Foundation...); fill it up with goats and sheep and other nifty little critters; provide an affordable and kinda fun service to the members of the community that want to utilize it; collect some revenue at the petting zoo gate (and via lawn and leaf munchers/composters); create some p/t positions [regular care, pooper scoopers, gate-keepers, etc] for a few folks [to be paid for via its own revenue stream] AND create a win-win-win for the citizens of Kingston --- with the added benefit of another tourism draw...

Some other potentialities that could blossom from all of this?

Add a concession stand? [Fresh Fruit (Orchard Trees?); Fruit Juice? Ice cream? Hot Chocolate?]

Egg Hunts? Holiday shows?

Lessons in the humane treatment of animals?

Horticulture [trees] lessons?

Your ideas here...?

Crazy thoughts? Maybe.

But we could also (perhaps?) sell those nasty leaf sucker machines - eliminate one source of pollution - save on the gas (or whatever) costs that keep these beasts (of metal) running - save on the labor costs associated with running them - AND save on leaf sucker machine maintenance and storage expenses...

A [Correction: $100 fine (Much better than $500, but still too high in my opinion...)] for not bagging leaves?

"Me-thinks" there might be some more serious violations in this City [like illegal dumping...] courting fines [What about some hefty fines for sex offenders that violate probation and/or parole conditions???] of that nature.

Don't you?

Just thoughts.

More on last nights City Council meeting [The leaf-bagging issue was sent back to the Laws and Rules committee...) later.

NS

Addendum: Some associated [taking away from and/or adding to my thoughts above...] links [please copy and paste in the address bar] I came up with:

"How much does it cost for a goat" - "Yahoo Answers": http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080506083722AAVBbok

"Cost of raising a goat": http://www.goats4h.com/Goat-costs.html

"Goats and more Goats The Goat Pages": http://www.goats4h.com/Goats.html

"Man charged with violating order of protection four times over weekend"; http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/2009/December09/02/Rinzler_arr-02Dec09.html

[Why not charge someone like this a $500 fine (I'll stay with that figure here!) - payable to the victim [or half to victim the other half to a competent Domestic Violence Prevention, Education and Intervention Program] - for every time he violates his order of protection?]

Addendum II:

Yes! Mayor Sottile IS looking to recoup (from the FBI) the $80,000 that the City had to put out due to the costs (to the City of Kingston) of the "Turner rally"!

I had thought about this possibility and discussed it with my husband - but it frankly felt too complicated and "hot" for me [Thank you Mayor Sottile!] to bring up...

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Source of Corrections: "City lawmakers nix leaf-bagging"; Paul Kirby; "Daily Freeman"; 12/2/09; P. A3.

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Source of information regarding Mayor Sottile - Turner / FBI Issue: "Sottile wants $80,000 from FBI to cover cost of 2005 Turner rally"; Paul Kirby; "Daily Freeman"; 12/2/09; Pp. A1 and A6.

Cheney's Potential Book Deal... You Tube Video... Viewer Discretion Advised... Tonight's City Council Meeting... Adventures in Chip's Land...

["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 going loop-de-loop [I have my reasons (sorry about the ads, which I neither endorse or oppose) for posting the video (albeit outdated and not my usual style) above] in a number of different directions - but I'm here to remind you [Like my latest song?] of tonight's [Tuesday, 12/1/09] City Council meeting - 7:30 PM [I had the time wrong below] - at City Hall.

Other than that, I loaded up my Chips Entertainment Services and Sales Merchants site [see sidebar for link] this am... and I took some other steps that have me a little bedazzled in regard to potentialities...

So, I am going to keep it [Bet ya' thought I couldn't do it, huh?] brief...

Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,

NS

[Oh yeah (lol, here I am already...): There is an organizational meeting ["Stop the Violence" in Midtown...] on December 10th - 6PM - at the Everette Hodge Center. This is being pulled together by a couple of City Alderman, the NAACP and some Community Activists --- and more information, including a contact number (I believe they would like people to sign up) - is available at KingstonCitizens.org (Ward 4)]

Zip Ih Dee Do Dah... Oh My... Tonights Budget Meeting and Caucus... Tomorrow Nights Common Council Meeting

["Hoarding Nuts" (Photo by NS); Just for Laughs...]

I am admittedly "all over the place" right now, but I should be back on track (or tracks lol) after the Holiday Season and the Budget (whatever the outcome) is passed...

As is, I do have some sales promo stuff up on site right now [below and sidebar] to scrape together Christmas funds...

And yet, I've gotten so involved in the local political scene that it would be pretty difficult to drop the ball (so to speak) now.



That said, please note that according to todays "Daily Freeman" there is a "Budget Review" meeting at City Hall tonight [11/30/09; Conference Rm. 1 / 5:30PM] --- which will be followed up by a Common Council Caucus at 7PM.

And tomorrow night is the Common Council Meeting [City Hall; Council Chambers; 7PM] --- at which, if I understand it right --- the Common Council will be voting on the Mayor's proposed 2010 Budget [Please see the Kingston Progressive blog site (link in sidebar) for more specific information about this.]

Other than that, please bear with me as I "morph" [Silly word, isn't it?] --- in whatever direction I need to - in order to meet [I'm not doing real good at this...] my own [some of these are intricately entwined with my sense of social conscience...] and my family's [as best I can...] needs.

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Some links [totally off topic...] to [if you so choose] copy, paste, click and think about:

"Almost no vacancy" - "The Daily Freeman News Serving the Hudson Valley since 1871" ; DailyFreeman.com : http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/11/30/news/doc4b131fd4543d9365775077.txt

"Welcome to MichaelMoore.com": http://www.michaelmoore.com/

"Mike & Friends Blog"; MichaelMoore.com; http://www.michaelmoore.com/words/mike-friends-blog/

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How do you feel about President Barack Obama (a Michael Moore topic at the links above...] sending additional American troops into Afghanistan?

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Truth, Love, Peace, Equality, Humane Justice and (lol / squeak... / iyiyi!) the Holidays...

NS

Happy Holidays... Chips Crafts and Local Photos Sale... Book and Phonograph Sales... Chips Entertainment... A Necessary Break from Politics...

Happy Holidays!

[Merry Christmas!]

Crafts by Chips [These earrings (Chips Light and Happy Earrings) are not safe or suitable for children younger than 10 [$10 includes gift box, sales tax, shipping and handling]

[Great Gift for Teens and the Young at Heart!]

[Great Gift for Teens and the Young at Heart!]

Photos by NS or BS - 8 by 10 color available unframed for $15; 8 by 10 in nice frame available for $25 [Price includes sales tax, shipping and handling]

[Clinton Statue; Uptown Kingston Park]

[From Uptown Health Care Reform Rally 2009]

["Thank You Maurice Hinchey"; Uptown Health Care Reform Rally 2009]

[Public Hearing on the Mayor's Proposed 2010 Budget]

[City of Kingston Photo Fall 2009]

[Personal Favorite]

[Chips Magic Show; "Aye Pirate..."]

[Riding Fun; Forsythe Park Fall Festival 2009]

[Domestic Violence Clotheline Project 2009]

[Domestic Violence Awareness Event Fall 2009]

[Creativity on the Roundout]

[Dance Troop; Independence Day Celebration on the Roundout]

[Make A Difference Day 2009]

[Bug...; Kingston Point Park]

[Boat; Hudson River Day 2009]

[Photo for Sale; Book (Old "Jack in the Beanstalk") Also for Sale...]

[Vase of Love]

["Peek-a-Boo!"]

[Photo Created / Utilized for Local Inauguration Party; MuddyCup Jan 2009]

A number of the other photos on this site are available for purchase as well. Please direct all inquiries [Crafts and Photos] to wingedbirdinflight@live.com

$2 from every earring and photo sale will go towards buying Christmas grab-bag gifts for children [to age 10] in midtown [Ward 4] Kingston.

Thank You,

NS

Note: These photos will be transfered to my Merchant Site [See the link in the sidebar] as soon as possible. Other sale items [my own book - antique and/or rare children's books - antique and/or rare phonograph albums (more such items will be added here or on the Merchants site, as well...) are noted in the sidebar.

Information on Chips party hosting, DJ/Karaoke services, childrens parties, clown gift delivery and more [all of this is under construction...] is [or will be...] available on the Merchant site [This information consists mainly of photos at the moment; please inquire regarding specifics at wingedbirdinflight@live.com]

On a Lighter Note... One Love... Blue... You Tube

["Blue- One love with lyrics"; as submitted to You Tube by Memmwy on July 01, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYJwltQQxQU]

You Tube Video Bliltz... Lots to Think About... Gangs... Bill Maher... Bugliosi on GWBush... Nifty Video on Child Discipline

Very Graphic at Times... Viewer Discretion Advised:

["On the Front Line: Gangs, Guns & Violence Part 1"; as submitted to You Tube by CutlineFilms on February 19, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChN4QvbbpFM]

Maher [Coming to a Theatre (UPAC) Near You!] on the Pharmaceutical Industry:

["Bill Maher - Big Pharma"; as submitted to You Tube by AwakeningMinds on July 03, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_vxr98bbRY]

Vincent Bugliosi on G. W. Bush... [What do you think? (Controversial / Viewer Discretion Advised]

["Prosecution of George w. Bush..."; as submitted to You Tube by commonagenet; November 23, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUNuhN5TQmk]

A Beautiful Video on Child Rearing / Discipline:

["Discipline that works!"; as submitted to You Tube by ParentsPartner on August 11, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o47FXeibqQM]

Love is My Religion... by Z. Marley... YouTube... Stopping the Violence... KIngstonCitizens.org... More...

["Ziggy Marley White House: Love Is My Religion"; as submitted to You Tube by ziggymarleycom on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I66MrIHu39g]

[This is the first time I heard (or saw) the video above. I think it is awesome!]

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However, in tune with my life and history - not so different afterall - I chose Bruce Springsteen's song - "For You" - to top my music list today. Why? Because, in a sense, it is a song that helped save my life in the past - and it carries a similar (to the above) message - "It's your heart that holds your fate."

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone. Mine was nice - and I hope yours was too. But the Holidays are a mixed bag for many people. Depression generally (from the stats I've read) go up. And this year the Holidays may bring challenges (social, financial, emotional, physical) that hold the potential for taking some folks over and/or beyond the "tipping point" (not my term, but I forget the source).

What do I mean by that?

Hang tight. Take it a "day at a time." Talk to people. Reach out for help (of whatever type) if you need it. And - feel free - here on site - to "talk" to me...

I'm reasonably comfortable (though it is a day to day struggle) in my own life now - worse off than many... better off than some... just another passenger, so to speak, on this train...

But I've been homeless in this lifetime. I have gone without food for myself and my children. I have lived at the bottom of the pecking order. I have entertained thoughts of suicide at different points in my life. And, I have even stood - at one point - in front of a loaded gun begging the person to shoot...

So, though I'm not exactly "whistling Dixie" [Or (lol) singing Pink Floyd's "Just Another Brick in the Wall..."] at this point - I am on the upside of down, more often than not - and if I can safely help another person find their way to their own heart ("It's your heart that holds your fate...") - I will certainly (at least via this blog) try.

A gentleman in Ward 4 (in association with the NAACP) - along with Alderman Whitlock, Alderman Madsen and Jeanne Edwards - is planning a rally (or something of the sort) geared towards addressing the violence --- "stopping" the violence --- in Midtown Kingston. Please see Kingston.Citizens.org (Ward 4) [There is a contact number there] for more information about this --- and add your ideas --- here or there --- to the mix.

I have never spent much time on this blog addressing the violence in the city. I know it is there. I fear it. And I grieve for the children - youth - families that are caught up in it.

Been there. Done that.

And through all of the violence I have witnessed, experienced and/or read about (I have done loads of research on this topic...) --- the message I have is this:

Nothing...
Nothing positive at all...
Ever comes out of violence!

Being the "bully in the schoolyard" so to speak... leads to nothing but eventual alienation, reform schools, jails and (this is if you follow it through to its maximum...) prisons or an early (sometimes violent) injury, institutionalization or death.

Being the chronic victim of such bullies is apt to lead to a stance of "learned helplessness" (basic psychological term) - fears, phobias, post-traumatic-stress disorder, addictions - and sometimes - much (including transitioning to the bully mode) worse...

What is the anger in Midtown [I certainly have my ideas, but lets hear yours) about?

What is a typical day in Midtown like - for a mother, a father, a teenager, a child?

What needs are being met? What needs aren't being met? Would a public forum (a safe public forum) - and being able to lend your thoughts, feelings and "voices" to the mix help?

Check out the posting on KingstonCitizens.org

Think [if these issues apply to you...] of someone that you love - someone that loves you - and reach out for help...

Put down your drugs [Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are free...]...

Unfurl your fists (They might well end up broken anyway...)

Get rid of your weapons (Carry an alarm - a cell phone with emergency numbers programmed in... walk tall without malice...)

And I guarantee (yes indeed...) that your life (although life is never without its dangers, stress, grief and pain) will be better for it! [There is also the potential for faith (however one might define it), healing, accomplishment and joy!)]

Ask yourself: How can I contribute to my community? How can I make things better? Can I do one small thing - just one small thing - with those questions in mind - today?

It is not "us against them" [whatever this might symbolize to the reader] --- "them against us" [ditto] --- or anything of the sort.

I believe we have reached a point where we will all learn how to swim (like a school of fish...) --- or we will all (like a lead ball...) sink.

Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,

NS

Happy Thanksgiving....

[Photo by NS]

Notes on the Proposed Budget... Happy Thanksgiving... How About Some Lights...

[Photo (by NS) of the Crowd at the Independence Day (Roundout Waterfront) Celebration]

Times are tough and Budgets are being belabored in households, committee rooms and courthouses throughout the land - leaving many of us a-tumble in a variety of ways - trying to figure out how to keep home, the Holidays, the community, our city, our state and our country afloat.

I promised some notes from the last Finance and Economic Development Committee Meeting (with a focus on the Mayor's 2010 Proposed Budget) that I attended - and I'm here to (as best I can, from an unofficial perspective) deliver.

The "Daily Freeman" covered some of this, but of course; and the "Kingston Times" surely will, as well --- but sometimes a few gems and/or passions get left out [This is surely true of my reports, as well...] of these "official" reports --- and sometimes [since we don't get to see any official "minutes" from these meetings] --- another perspective (my opinion certainly creeps in here and there, so take this as an layman's editorial) is good to have.

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At the Monday night (11/23/09) Finance and Economic Development [focus on the Mayor's proposed 2010 Budget] Committee Meeting [I believe there has been another one since] Kingston City Aldermen [most were present] and Union Reps pretty much had the "floor".

It sounded, to me, like the Kingston Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Rep (and/or associates) had met with Mayor Sottile and City Comptroller John Tuey in order to work towards some possible agreements and / or concessions [This PBA Rep was professional and respectful in his (remaining firmly set against any layoffs) presentation at the Committee Meeting - but nothing had been voted on by the Union membership yet] --- and this situation "might have" [?????] deteriorated since.

The Fire Department was also represented - but I'm less clear on this issue [I believe it was Mr. Tiano that mainly spoke on this topic] than the others --- a situation that is complicated by the fact that the City and the Fire Department apparently have a case in the Courts [having to do with the Mayor's retirement incentive program and disagreements/problems that have arisen around "same"] now. [As an aside, it appears as if the KPD and the KFD are looking at ways that they might be able to utilize a combined (no attached figures were available yet) dispatch center.]

The CSEA Union Rep that took the floor at the Committee meeting seemed pretty rigid (in my perspective) about the possibility of the CSEA entertaining any concessions [He stated that he "had nothing to bring to the table..."] - and it sounded to me [I admittedly missed some of the intricacies here] as if the Council was to get back to them (the CSEA) about some issues by (a tenative date?) 12/10/09.

As far as "juicier" stuff (lol) --- Alderman Shirley Whitlock [Ward 4] asked the CSEA Rep how he could "live with" himself. To which he responded (probably not exact, but close...): "You spent all summer long arguing over a streetlight...!"

After which [Alderman Whitlock was very upset (and voiced this) on behalf of Kingston Citizens that are not perhaps as privleged as some of the others...] the CSEA Union Rep stated (in a roundabout way) that he was not without empathy - that he had been through his own tough personal, professional and economic situations - but that (in synopsis) "it is what it is."

[Alderman Whitlock also had words with someone from the sidelines [who started the discussion...] that challenged her [Ms Whitlock] to give up her pay. Alderman Whitlock responded (in synopsis) that if anyone wanted her measley eight thousand dollars (The Aldermen are not paid enough for what they do, in my opinion!) they could have it...]

Committee Chair / Alderman Landi reminded everyone that the City of Kingston payroll is floating on a 2.5 Million Dollar bond [I take it this is similar to borrowed money (????? / Please correct me if I am wrong!)] at the moment - that time is of the essense - and that a Chapter 9 bankruptcy might [if the budgetary concerns cannot be worked out to everyone's satisfaction) be in the offing...

Alderman Landi also noted (synopsis) that a "rescue" by the state wasn't looking too likely, due to the financial condition of the state itself [See the Governor Paterson video below for more on this...].

Alderman Landi had done some research on the Chapter 9 Bankruptcy topic - and had handouts for the rest of the Aldermen --- but Alderman DiBella [Ward 5] refused her copy - stating that (synopsis) the idea of the City of Kingston filing for a Chapter 9 Bankruptcy was "shameful" - and that she wanted to proceed with a focus on potential "solutions".

Much more was said; there were some "heated" moments. But it was good (in my opinion) to see both Alderman Whitlock and Alderman DiBella (this does not signify my agreement or disagreement with anything that was said) take a vocal stand.

A potential meeting - to be held over Thanksgiving weekend was discussed [?????] - but since the Common Council President - Alderman-at-Large James Noble Jr. - was not present; apparently this could not be (at the meeting) put in place. [Any updates on this?]

Other upcoming meetings on the proposed budget [I will try (What is up with the City of Kingston Municipal Calender?) to stay up to date on any changes [due to the Holidays] are noted in the sidebar >>>>>

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All of that said, I want to state here that I can't always catch names - whether this be due to a hearing problem - my anxiety problem - or whatever --- and I apologize for that. I'm on a "learning curve" (self-imposed) so-to-speak - so please [I turn in my ideas to the Committee Chair, and encourage others to do the same...] bear with me.

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Enjoy your Holidays!

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BTW, if you aren't using those Holiday lights in the attic or cellar anymore (I find decorating to get tougher as I get older...) - why not consider checking them out for safety (or have someone else do so) and donating them to any businesses on Broadway [or homes] that would like to participate in a collective colorful boost?

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Time to make the salad!

NS

Addendum: As always, if any errors or noted, please let me know and the appropriate corrections will be made. Also - please feel free to share your thoughts and opinions!

Frown or Clown... Up or Down... Governor Paterson... NYS Budget Issues... You Tube... Shoulders Back... Head Up... Music Helps...

This may not be the best of times - and I might not have the type of equipment [Mine is good for small to medium venues] that I would like to have - but I am trying to get my clown / entertainment business back on the move [for a profit / as I can handle it] again. There is no better time (in my opinion) for some light hearted fun than now - and the more I fight depression (which I do...) the more I try (at least on my better days) to fight (this has to do with my sense of spirituality) for the light...

I can generally do clown and/or magic shows - in public venues [I'm not open to private parties at this time] - for 20 to 45 minutes [children love this]. I can do gift deliveries [in my clown outfit] in the Kingston area. And - with my husband's and son's help [both excellent singers] - and advance booking - I can host a pretty darn good [small to medium / up to 100 people] DJ / Karaoke / Dance [for any type of occasion] party.

I will also be trying my hand at designing and creating some sales-worthy craft items [with a focus on earrings for the moment] - and these will soon be posted [for sale] in the sidebar.

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Other than that [an unusual post for me] --- I will still be doing what I can as far as keeping up on local events, etc --- and more notes on the City 2010 Budget issues [I did attend the meeting last night] are pending. Please note that there are other meetings scheduled regarding this matter [including the one TONIGHT] - as well.

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For now I think maybe it is important to post the following video:

["Governor David Paterson"; as posted by NYSExecChamberTV on November 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZ4m53C3Cyk]

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Shoulders back. Chin up. Music helps...

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One of my husband's best songs:

Louis Armstrong "What a Wonderful World"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtPF9M3nIHs

One of my son's best songs:

Enrique Iglesias- "Hero..."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owTmJrtD7g8

One of my best songs?
Probably (lol) the Hokey Pokey! [Although I do a lot of other songs, including "Angel" [in the sidebar>>>] - as well.

So... if you are interested in hiring a clown (and/or Karaoke host and company) --- please let me [wingedbirdinflight@live.com] know! [Photography and/or the videotaping of your event - via Shutterbug Photos - along with instructions on how to set up your own blog - is also available]

Peace, Love, Truth, Equality and Humane Justice,

NS

Lol, lol, lol... Maybe like the bumper sticker, t-shirt, etc. says... "It really 'is' all about the 'Hokey Pokey!'"

Jan 2009 through 11/23/09... Flickr Slide Show Review... Local KC and UC Events and Activists... More

[A photo (by NS) from earlier this year, as businesses started to close shop, one after another - for one reason or another - in the City of Kingston...]

Nov 23, 2009 Update:

In Jan 2009, when I hosted - with MoveOn.org (in association with some other groups, as well) - the Barack Obama Inauguration party at the Muddy Cup [which closed shortly after (I attempted to get a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to reopen it as a Community gathering / event / no booze family oriented party facility, and I was turned down)] - I was full of zest and zeal and hope; having been, like many others, totally disillusioned (to say the least) by the antics [some of which I consider outright crimes against the people of this nation...] of some members of the Bush Jr. [including former President George Bush Jr., himself; whom I consider one of the worst home-grown terrorists of this decade) Administration.

I didn't know a great deal about the intricate workings of politics, at that point; but I had gathered a great deal of history and facts [I am one to take my research to the max] during the writing of my three main published works [Please send any inquiries regarding these directly to my email or PO Box].

I had always considered myself - to that point [Jan 2009] an agoraphobic activist; or, if you like - an oxymoron in the flesh --- with my heart and conscience urging me to get "out there..." --- and my mind and body (in all of its symptomology...) screaming "No, No, No!"

Slowly, I started --- with the Inauguration Party being the first biggy (other than some public speaking and activism around child safety issues...) --- to get involved in politics --- at various levels and in coalition with a number of activism oriented groups...

Putting the books (quite different from what I write here; published in 2007) behind me (for the most part) --- and staying up to date (as best I could and can) on local, State and National news.

I attended (generally, with my husband) City Council Meetings, Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meetings, and some other City meetings (Finance; Cable; Laws and Rules; Human Rights Commission; Etc.) - to learn. But I began, over the course of time, to voice my opinions (albeit with a pounding heart) --- and I slowly, oh so slowly - built up a degree of understanding, empathy (for all parties involved) and [Our whole socio-economic-political system - is, in my opinion - a mess...] a flickering of self-esteem, self-confidence, a sense (not so good...) of heightened danger, and --- as I swim in a tank of catfish, goldfish and sharks (finding that sometimes one masquerades as the other..) --- courage.

I got to know people - wonderful people, for the most part - although I rarely get real close [this relates to my personal history] to anyone. Probably, in the interim, becoming - for some - a "bone of contention"; and for others, a welcome [I know at least some people appreciate what I have to say, whether it is on this blog or elsewhere] sight.

Did I ever intend to get so involved in politics at the local level?

No.

Do I feel I have something to give in that area?

Yes.

Have I become obsessed with it all?

Perhaps...

Does everyone involved in politics become so?

I wonder...

Have I seen citizen activism grow and blossom locally and elsewhere - with others, perhaps like myself, getting involved for the first time?

Absolutely.

Is this a good thing - bringing with it a more diverse range of thoughts, opinions, ideas and suggestions?

I think so.

Has this come at a high cost [physically, mentally, financially, socially) to some of us? [Many of whom can't afford to adequately meet (in regards to quality, accessibility, affordability) our own medical (this no doubt covers a wide range, and mental health needs don't get mentioned often enough...) needs.]

I can answer that to the affirmative --- and I'm sure some others can too.

Whatever the case, I want to thank all of the individuals portrayed in the Flickr photo slide show below - for being there - for caring enough (when such is the case) to be there - for trying to find solutions - and for allowing my presence and my camera (sometimes) at events.

I also wanted to add some more ideas about current budget issues here (K-NY) --- but I have decided to do that in a separate post [Stay tuned...] above.

[Photos (Primarily by NS) from K-NY and UC-NY Meetings and Events Jan 2009 - Nov 2009; http://www.flickr.com/photos/withazap/sets/72157622722915259/show/]

If you would like your photo removed from this slide show [all photos were taken with permission (at the time) and/or at "public" events] - please let me know.

There are other new posts / issues touched upon below...

Peace, Love, Truth and Humane Justice,

NS