Good Morning... Notice... "Z-TRIP - Obama Mix (part 4 of 6)" You Tube Video....

[Photo by BF]

Good Morning!

I wanted to let folks know that I am in the process of developing a MySpace site, and that I might have accidentally mailed (lol) a MySpace invite to everyone on my mailing list [both personal and official; still under development...] - which "might" look pretty strange (lol) to some folks and/or (in particular) organizations.

Thus, if you got a personal invite to my MySpace (also still under development...) - and "want" to check it out, please do...

But, if you got an invite and thought to yourself, "this woman is crazy!" [a word I prefer is "eccentric" (lol)] - please know that I was working on this very late at night - that I'm on a rapid technological learning curve - and that I extend my sincere apologies!

That said...

This
is
a
countdown (Day 2)
staged
backwards...

["Z-TRIP - Obama Mix (part 4 of 6)"; Posted on You Tube on 10/08/09 by intrepidexplorer2008]

Awesome, isn't it?

And this is a sweet silly image to greet a new (hopefully good!) day...

["Sleeping Dragon"; Photo by NS]

Peace, Love and Humane Justice,

NS

"Z-TRIP - Obama Mix (part 6 of 6)" You Tube Video

"Z-TRIP - Obama Mix (part 6 of 6)" You Tube Video

This
is
a
countdown
staged
backwards...

Starting with a pre-election pro-Obama video that some of you might have missed:

["Z-TRIP - Obama Mix (part 6 of 6)" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPd5Numj9Eg; as submitted to You Tube by intrepidexplorer on 10/08/08]

Nifty, isn't it?

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

Don't miss the Obama Inaugural Party on 1/20/09 at the Kingston (NY) Muddy Cup (516 Broadway). It is going to be a "hoot!"

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

NS

Opinion Piece... Local and National News...

[Photo by BF]

1. Folks should definitely check out (as able) their (make sure these are open to the public) meetings [It is a learning experience!] - such as:

a. Jan. 15: City of Kingston Laws & Rules Public Hearing [City Hall; 7PM]

b. Jan. 20: City of Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals [City Hall; 7:30PM]

c. Jan. 21: City of Kingston Finance and Economic Development Committee [City Hall; 6:30 PM]

d. Jan. 22: City of Kingston Police Commission [City Hall; 4PM]

e. Jan. 22: City of Kingston Public Safety/General Government/Public Access Meeting [City Hall; 7PM]

f. Feb. 4: Ulster County Planning Board Meeting [UC Office Building, Surrogate's Court; 244 Fair Street, Kingston (7:30PM)]

[This information came from this week's "Kingston Times." Folks should also consult the Monday "Daily Freeman" meeting list and/or call City Hall (or the appropriate contact) to confirm certain meeting dates, locations and times!]

2. The former UC Sheriff's Deputy that (whilst on duty!) reputedly sexually assaulted a 17-yr-old girl should definitely have to serve jail time! [See "Ex-deputy guilty of sex shakedown"; "Kingston Times" (KT); P. 2]

3. Folks should definitely call their local representatives and/or U.C. County Legislatures --- express their feelings --- and/or request a public meeting --- about the potential placement (or non-placement, for the safety of our children!) of convicted sex offenders... [See (A) "Distance boundaries... Ulster legislators are divided over limits on sex offenders"; Hugh Reynolds; KT; 1/15/09; P. 14; (B) "Legislators spar over sex offender law"; Robert Ford; "Ulster County Press"; 1/14/2009; P. A4, and/or; (C) "Predator law could spur state action..."; Patricia Doxey; DF; 1/15/09; P. A1 and A6]

4. Folks should definitely be upset about the fact that impeached Governor, Rod Blagojevich (Illinois) "will preside briefly over the chamber that will hold his political life in its hands..." [See "Blagojevich to preside over body that will try him"; Associated Press (AP); DF; 1/14/09; P B1]

5. Folks should definitely be upset that outgoing President George Bush Jr. and outgoing Vice President "Dick" Cheney are reputedly scheduled to receive approximately $200,000 and $132,000 (respectively) in their first year of retirement - whilst incoming President Barack Obama and incoming Vice President Joe Biden are left to deal with the social, economic and political "hurricane" (Do you have a "better" word?) that Bush Jr. and Cheney (with a little help from some of their "friends") created...! [See "Comfortable pensions await Bush, Cheney..."; AP; DF; 1/16/09; P. B3]

[Note: The opinions state here are mine. You are welcome to (appropriately) express your own! Please let me know if there are any factual errors in this report - and I will promptly make corrections... Thank You.]

N.S.

Passing It On... Gleaned From An Email Received from Julie McQuain, Pres., UCDW

[Photo by BF]

The "Daily Freeman" (DF) printed a "front page story" about the fact that Ulster County Democratic Women (UCDW) would like to see a "female... succeed Clinton in Senate." To read the DF article, go to:

http://www.freemanonline.com/articles/2009/01/16/news/doc49701730d6185705544206.txt"

To respond to the poll question, "Is it important to you that a woman be chosen to succeed Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Senate?" --- go to:

http://www.freemanonline.com/news/

To recommend that a woman becomes "the next Senator from NY..." - and "make your suggestion" go to:

www.UCDW.org

To see a letter - as mailed from Julie McQuain, President of UCDW - to Gov. David Patersn (1/14/09) - go to:

http://demwomenny.blogspot.com/

These links will also be made available in the sidebar >>>

Thank you,

N.S.

Local Service Opportunities [Jan. 19, 2009] in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

[Peace...; Photo by NS]

If it's broke, let's fix it!

Info. gleaned from following an email link I received today: "USA Service Find Results Kingston Area": Please follow the following link (i hope this works...) to discover opportunities for service on Jan. 19, 2009 in the Kingston, NY area: http://www.usaservice.org/page/event/search_results?country=US&event_type%5B%5D=2&zip_radius%5B1%5D=15&zip_radius%5B0%5D=12401&orderby=zip_radius&radius_unit=miles&limit=100 [Also available in sidebar>>>]

This is also a great link from which to glean general info for general volunteer opportunities in the area!

Thanks!

N.S.

Having a Little Bit of Fun... Creative Photography

[Total Coincidence - That's Obama behind that Sled!; Photo by NS]

No grumbling, as hinted at earlier! I think I'll save that until tomorrow...

Instead, I'm thrilled because I finally got a few of my own photos developed and modified, and I can put some of my own works (in that regard) up here!

[Mouse in the House!; Photo by NS]

I do photos (Anyone remember (Ahem) "Gargoyle Associates?") that are very different from BFs...

Mostly just for fun - but some (even if by accident) turn out pretty cool, silly or - as in the next case, really "neat" ---

[The Wonder of It All...; Photo by NS]

Had enough?

One more...

[Party Like It's Barack Obama's Inauguration!; Photo by NS]

Have a Good Night All!

N.S.

Good Morning... Photos... Info.... Press Release

[Photo (Artistic Rendering Of...) by BF]

[Photo (Artistic Rendering Of...) by BF]

[Photo (Artistic Rendering Of...) by BF]



I have been loading some of BF's (a very talented and humble guy) photos - and I wanted to share a few of them with you this morning!


Plus, I've been exploring the Web regarding local organizations, prominent blogs and websites, etc. - so please let me know (I did a quick review before posting links >>>) if you find anything offensive and/or particularly interesting amongst this mix.

For the Press Release about Obama Inauguration Party, please scroll down a bit...

Have a Great Day!

[I think I might be back a little later to grumble (about some local social / political stuff...] a bit later!

N.S.

Thank You... "Madagascar I like to move music video"... You Tube

["Madagascar I like to move music video"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x3W6hutEj8; as Submitted to YOU TUBE by SgtGaruru on
July 14, 2007]

I just wanted to post a brief note to thank the many kind and generous people that I have come in contact with since beginning this party-planning for the Obama Inauguration party at the Muddy Cup.

Some folks associated with the Obama-Biden Transition Team are busy, busy, busy --- and very gracious!

The folks at the Kingston Muddy Cup have been very open to working with me.

Some folks associated with Ulster County Democratic Women ha been very receptive / kind.

A woman associated with Hudson Valley for Obama has freely offered advice and assistance.

One of the local Aldermen has committed to coming --- and another has given a sincere (I believe!) maybe...

A couple of folks higher up on the political chain have also promised to stop by if they are able (This is, as you might guess, a very busy night for politicians!)...

A local journalist / activist has agreed to say a few words.

A number of newspapers and radio stations have accepted my Press Release promptly - and the Kingston "Daily Freeman" already posted (just a day or so after I sent it) one brief.

I have a couple of good karaoke singers lined up already!

And I could go on and on...

But! To keep this kinda' short (Perhaps I'll be able to give a full, although general listing, after the event!) - for now I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you...

And put in a plug to keep this momentum going (for many of us, against some pretty tough odds!) right on through this new (hopefully to bring a number of positive changes) year!

With a Renewed Respect for a Whole Lot of Folks in the local and larger community!

N.S.

Official News Release Obama Inauguration Party...

[Photo/Flyer by NS]

"City of Kingston Progressives Gather to Celebrate Obama's Inauguration"

Notice: The following News Release contains wording specific to the the Inauguration Party being addressed, along with some wording provided by MoveOn.org Civic Action:

MoveOn.org Civic Action Member, Nancy Smith [Also the Proprietor of ChipsN'Dips Entertainment and Sales] is collaborating with some other members of MoveOn.org Civic Action ["Democracy in Action"] - some community politicians and activists (across Party lines) - and some other enthusiasts / helpers / volunteers - to host a local (City of Kingston / State of NY) Inaugural Bash to celebrate Barack Obama's swearing in...!

Barack Obama's Inauguration is a historic event - and bears a dream and a HOPE (during these very difficult times) of better days ahead!

This event is FREE [wi. coffee, snacks and such available for purchase] - includes a FUN mix of entertainment - and will be part of "more than 2,500 bashes happening all over the country" - bringing "together... millions of Americans that helped to achieve this victory."

[Photo by BF]

Open Mike Poetry Reading: Upbeat Poems: Social / Economic / Political / Dream and/or HOPE Theme Please [5 Minute Limit Per Reader]

Karaoke Participants: Remember: We Want to HAVE FUN!

Inauguration Party Details:

Who:

YOU (?) [Smile]; Some Local Members of MoveOn.org and/or Other Community Organizations; Some Local Politicians and/or Political Activists; Some "Unsung Local Heroes" (Suggestions Welcomed!); Some Poets (Economical / Political / Social Dream Theme Please...); Some Karaoke Singers (Upbeat and Hopeful Please...); Some Younger Folks; Some Older Folks; and... Anyone else [ALL are welcome at this party!] that WANTS to Come!

What:

Inaugural Bash to Celebrate Barack Obama's Swearing In

Where:

Mid-Town Kingston Muddy Cup: 516 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401

When:

Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 7:30PM

Cost:

FREE [With coffee, snacks and such available for purchase at the counter]

Note:

"These parties will be co-sponsored by a broad spectrum of progressive groups, including TrueMajority, Living Liberally, Credo Action, and
the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees."

For More Information, Email Nancy at wingedbirdinflight@live.com

Revised Poem... The Wisdom of the Willow

[Photo by BF (Not a Willow :)]

I revised one of my earlier poems, and I like it better this way - so I figured (cold depressing day here...) I would re-post it:

THE WISDOM OF THE WILLOW

When who you are
Is not enough
The road is long
The journey tough
A candle flame
Too often snuffed
A lid upon its cover...

You said you were my brother (?)

But forget that little sister
Has dreams too...

And is, in fact
As capable as you...

For although a willow tree
Might bend
It has strong roots
And always tends...

To spring back strong
Even when its boughs

Are laden with the weight
Of life...
The winter snow
The darkest nights

The sun a dream...
The sun a dream...

Even trees must keep
Believing...

Cold Weather Advisory... Tips

[Photo by BF]

Some Things [Heating Assistance and/or Weatherization Programs with Application in the City of Kingston Area] That You Might Need to Check Into --- by Calling Central Hudson, the Office of the Aging, Community Action, Family and/or Some Other Local Assistance Program (Most, or all of these, are income-level dependent):

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

Powerful Opportunity Program

The Good Neighbor Fund

Empower New York

Weatherization Program

Remember, intense cold, especially for the very young and the very old, can be truly dangerous - as can the improper use of kerosene heaters, generators, kitchen stoves and such - and one needs to be careful walking, biking and driving on this snow and ice, as well!

[If there are any errors in this report, please let me know and I will correct them as soon as possible]

Wishing You Warmth!

N.S.

"The Times, They Are a Changing..." [Some info to check out...]

[Photo by BF]

If you get a chance - and are so inclined - check out (The bold emphasis is mine):

(1) A video related to Barack Obama's speech on the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan" [Obama's economic plan reputedly includes "rebuilding infrastructure, expanding renewable energy capacity, and overhauling health care and education" [John D. Podesta, Co-Chair / Obama-Biden Transition Project (quoted from an email I received today)] at: http://change.gov/plan

(2) The newsroom blog at: http://change.gov/newsroom/blog/

(3) An article titled: "Gay NH bishop to offer prayer at inaugural event..." ---[Quote: "The first openly gay Episcopal bishop will offer a prayer at the Lincoln Memorial at an inaugural event for President-elect Barack Obama..." [1/12/09; Associated Press (AP); http://www.rr.com/view/content/story.cfm?storyId=6550061&view=NEWS&sSect=LP1-T2VGEN&trProv=NE_AP_9]; and...

(4) An article titled: "Minister chosen for inaugural prayer service..." --- [Quote: "The Rev. Sharon Watkins... [A Woman!] will deliver the sermon at the National Prayer Service that caps the inauguration activities of Barack Obama" [1/11/09; AP; http://www.rr.com/view/content/story.cfm?storyId=6545478&view=NEWS&sSect=LP1-T2VGEN&trProv=NE_AP_9]

These links will also be made available in the sidebar.

N.S.

Passing it On: Message from Michelle Obama [National Day of Service]

--- "Michelle Obama - USAService.org"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AeNgjXPZkrM; Submitted by "inauguration" on January 09,2009

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

Passing it on: Letter I received from Michelle Obama [Monday, January 12, 2009 1:56 PM]

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

"Nancy --

One week from today, on January 19th, Barack and I will join thousands of people all across the country for an extraordinary day of service.

I recorded a short video to tell you more about this important effort. Please take a minute to watch it and sign up to host or attend a service event near you...

Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are committing to renew America together, one community at a time.

Whatever service activity you organize or take part in -- cleaning up a park, giving blood, volunteering at a homeless shelter, or mentoring an at-risk youth -- you can help start this important journey. But this is about more than just a single day of service, it's the beginning of ongoing commitment to your community.

Monday, January 19th, is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. King taught us to live a life of service, and he led by example. He once said:

"If you want to be important -- wonderful. If you want to be recognized -- wonderful. If you want to be great -- wonderful. But, recognize that he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. That's a new definition of greatness."

Barack and I will be volunteering in Washington, D.C., our new home. I hope you'll join us by taking part in this national call to service in your community:

http://www.USAservice.org/calltoservice

It will take ordinary citizens working together with a common purpose to get this country back on track. This national day of service is an important first step in our continuing commitment.

Now is the time to remind all Americans what ordinary people can accomplish when we stand together.

Thank you,

Michelle

P.S. -- If you are already planning to be in Washington, D.C. for the Inauguration, text SERVE to 56333 to receive information about service opportunities in the nation's capital. Or you can learn more here:

http://www.USAservice.org/calltoserviceDC"

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

Michelle's video address - "USA Service... Your Call to Service" can be accessed at: http://usaservice.org/page/content/calltoservice/

I will make these links available in the sidebar>>>

Thank You,

N.S.

"Bill Maher And Barack Obama" You Tube Video [Barack Obama on Faith and Politics]

["Bill Maher And Barack Obama"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh8i_FzHVTU; Contributed to You Tube by ElPadreAmaru on January 08, 2009]

More Info on Inauguration Party at Muddy Cup

[Photo by BF]

As this New Year unfolds, and I personally follow through on a "few" resolutions, I wanted to take a step back to the concept of "We the People..." - and make sure I let folks know that this Obama Party that I have scheduled is for EVERYONE and ANYONE that wants to attend.

A few people are being personally invited to come and say a few words - but there will be open mike (poetry only) time, as well as some karaoke time - and the true focus of the event is a celebration of this historic moment!

Times are tough for a lot of us, and I don't think anyone is telling us anything different. But there is hope associated with the "changing of the guard" - and there are a whole lot of tulips (lol) scheduled to start blooming around here, come Spring!

If you know of any City of Kingston residents that you consider "unsung heroes" - and would like to hear them say a few words at this event, please send me an email (with a contact of some sort) at wingedbirdinflight@live.com --- so that I can contact them.

This could be a local political activist - a poet that you know - a single mother or father striving to keep things together - someone associated with a human service organization that you respect - your very own Mom, Dad, Brother, Sister, etc. - or YOU!

Thank You,

N.S.

Inaugural Celebration... Party Announcement

Just a reminder...

[Inauguration Party at Kingston Muddy Cup, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009, 7:30PM-10PM!]

I will be placing them here periodically...

Please let me know if you would like to put a poster [these vary] in your place of business!

Contact: wingedbirdinflight@live.com

Thank You,

N.S.

Condolences... Sex Offender Issue... Fair Pay Act... Business Update... Poem

[Photo by BF]

1) From a quick trip through the local blogs I am aware that Mayor Sottile's father passed away --- and I would like to add (to the voice of others) my sincere condolences to Mr. Sottile and the rest of the Sottile family.

[Photo by BF]

2) I haven't read today's Kingston "Daily Freeman" [KDF] yet, but there was an article in Saturday's "Freeman" that I wanted (and negated) to comment upon --- that happens to be linked to a HOT issue that brought a lot of Kingston City residents through the doors of City Hall in 2008.

For apparently, there has been a re-birth (although not exactly of the same nature) of the "what to do with sex offenders" issue --- as relected in a quote [See "Sex Offender Law Would Restrict Residency"; Mid-Hudson News Network; KDF; 1/10/09; P. A3] that reads like this:

"'Would you rather have a sex offender that you know is living next door to you, or have a sex offender and drive him underground... and you don't know where he is?'" (UC Leg. Frank Dart, D-Kingston).

[I am going to reword this and put up an onsite poll on this matter --- because here we go (a lot of us have strong feelings and opinions on this issue) again!]

[Photo by BF]

3) Also very important, in my view, is the progress of the "Fair Pay Act" --- but rather than cover it here, I would urge concerned folks to check out the "DemWomen Brewing Change" blog link in the sidebar (scroll down) for more information on:

"Fair Pay Act Passes in House... Now its the Senate's turn to finally do the right thing so that women are paid fairly, and there is a workable process for challenges to unfair pay..."

There is a direct link on the DemWomen... site through which folks can contact some of their representatives on this VERY IMPORTANT (Why is expecting "fair pay" for women apparently so very hard (ahem) to understand?] issue!

[Photo by N.S.]

4) Although I have set up temporary site at Merchants Circle to address my fledgling home-based business [see side-bar] - a more permanent business website is still pending - the business (as far as product sales and purchases) is not expected to be fully operational until Spring - and I want to make it clear that this is a small home-based business, with email inquiries and consults [wingedbirdinflight@live.com] preferred - to be followed up by scheduled appointments (ONLY) when appropriate / agreed upon. [Note: The entertainment aspect of ChipsN'Dips has been in place for a few years, mostly operating on a volunteer and small children's parties basis. ChipsN'Dips in the entertainment context, has participated in some local parades and community events, in conjunction with the AOH (St. Patricks Day parades); the Lion's Club (Lion's Club Expos); the Rosendale Festival; and other such organizations / venues].

[Photo by B.F.]

5. I will leave you this am with a poem (rough draft) that I wrote yesterday [This fits somewhat with the "Fair Pay Act" theme]...

"The Wisdom of the Willow"

When who you are
Is not enough
The road is long
The journey tough
A candle flame
Too often snuffed
A lid upon its cover...

You said you were my brother (?)

But forget that little sister
Has dreams too...

And is, in fact, as capable as you..

For though a willow
Might bend
It has strong roots
And tends to spring back
Even when its fruits

Are invisible to
The light of day...

Trust me, trust me
When I say...

That although the eagle
Can fly alone...
'Tis only with
A heart of stone

The sky above
The earth below

Do not snuff out
The light...
[We have our gifts
and our rights!]
Of woman.

N.S.

Question for the Public and the Local "Powers That Be..."

[Photo by BF]

I read in this week's "Kingston Times" ["New year,new jobs"; P. 3] that the Kingston City Council formed an "Auditing Committee" [Aldermen Teetsel, Madsen, Landi, Polacco and Hoffay) the beginning of this year...

And I would like to pose this question:

Would it be possible to list, on the "General Bills" section of the Kingston Common Council Meeting agendas, not only the vendor and amount - but the type of vendor, type of service rendered - and (where just a name is listed) that person's title and type of service rendered - as well?

People's names reveal nothing to the general public about the type of service rendered...

Some organizational names, such as "Cook, Tucker, Netter & Cloonan" (a law firm?) reveal nothing to the public about the type of service rendered [This was a $13,235.79 item on the Jan. 2009 agenda]

And some items, even if somewhat revealing by the nature of the organizational name, such as "Matt Pozorski Sculptureworks" ($3,750.00 on the Jan 2009 agenda) are baffling (at least without further information) as to what their pragmatic application might be - to the benefit of the City of Kingston - during these extremely difficult economic times.

To phrase that differently [and this is NOT to imply any implication of wrongdoing on the part of the City Council or any of the people or organizations listed as vendors on the Jan. 2009 Kingston City Council Agenda!]...

Who exactly are [I'll stick to a few of the more obscure (to the average Kingston citizen) bigger money items here...]:

Core BTs Inc.? [Jan 2009 Agenda; $1,280.00]

The "Dietz Commission"? [Jan 2009 Agenda; $74,500.00]

HDR/LMS? [Jan 2009 Agenda; $3,019.10]

Malcolm Pirnie Inc.? [Jan 2009 Agenda; $3,315.04]?

I am certainly aware that most organizations have their acronyms. In fact, the National Organization of Mental Health (or some such organization) has a source-book full of them...

But when it comes to City business - the expenditure of taxpayer monies - I really think the public needs things spelled out more explicitly --- that we need to know exactly who (or what organization) these monies are going to --- and for what purpose?

There is NO offense implied here. I am simply putting out my view on this matter, hoping that (as appropriate) the public, the new "Auditing Committee", the Mayor, the new County Comptroller and the new County Executive will give this some serious thought.

[If any errors have been made here, please let me know and I will post corrections immediately]

[General feedback is welcome and appreciated.]

N.S.

Old Record Albums...

[Photo by NS]

Yesterday my mother dropped off some old albums for me to list (for sale) on site.

The following is just a partial [Most are 33 1/3 RPM] list:

A Series of "Showboat" (78 R.P.M.) Reference Recordings (Old Radio Show) [National Broadcasting Company; 1937]

Gene Autry's Western Classics (Columbia Records; 1947; Set)

"Yes Indeed!" (Name of Album) [RCA Victor Records; Undated]

Don Ho Greatest Hits (Anyone Remember "Tiny Bubbles?" [Reprise Records; Undated)

"Dancing in the Moonlight"; David MacDowell and his Society Orchestra (Audition Records; Undated)

Andy Griffith and Dolores Gray in "Destry Rides Again...." [Original Cast Album] [Decca Records; Undated; 1st World Premier in 1959 (Schubert Theatre)

The Best of Tex Williams; Premier Albums; Undated]

The Wonderful King Family; Columbia Records; Undated]

Tennessee Ernie Ford: "Hymns" [Capitol Records; Signed; Undated]

Skating Time; Ken Griffin... [Columbia Records; Undated]

Bobbi Martin [Remember "Have You Ever Been Lonely?") [Decca Records; 1970]

Roy Clark's Greatest Hits - Volume 1 [ABC Records; 1975]

BlueGrass Banjo Hootenanny (Ed Cassady and the Georgia Corn Stompers) [Coronet Records; Undated]

22 Favorite Waltzes With the Mom and Dads [Remember the "Tennessee Waltz?"] [GNP/ Crescendo; 1976]

"To You Sweetheart, Aloha" (Andy Williams) [Cadence Records; Undated]

Firestone 5 Star Fiesta [Dean Martin; Jackie Gleason; Nat "King" Cole; Kay Starr; Guy Lombardo] [John H. Begley Ass.; Undated]

Inquiries to wingedbirdinflight@live.com

N.

Inaugural Party at Kingston Muddy Cup... Jackson Brown "For Everyman" You Tube

[Jackson Browne - "For Everyman"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qr-hqAjdNrU; Submitted by "stampbeugel" on June 03, 2007]

I have lined up to host, in collusion with the MoveOn Civic Action League, an Inaugural Party at the Kingston Muddy Cup. Here are the details of the event:

Inaugural Bash

Tuesday, 20 Jan 2009, 7:30 PM

Midtown Kingston Muddy Cup
516 Broadway
Kingston, NY 12401

Announcement, as submitted to MoveOn...

"This will be an informal Inauguration Party where folks can gather, share ideas and even, if they choose (This is to add a unique twist!) say a few words, read some poetry (open mike / pertinent to the occasion) or sing (just for fun!) a few Karaoke songs. The Muddy Cup is a great venue for such an event. Some local political figures and activists will get a personal invite. And the press... is definitely welcome! The focus will truly be a celebration! Let's have some FUN!"

There is no fee for this event, but one can purchase coffee / snacks at the counter.

Please help spread the word and come be part of this historic celebration!

N.S.

KAPA Fundraising and Award Ceremony Event Announcement

[Photo by BF]

My husband, Kingston Area Public Access [KAPA] Commissioner, R.S., just returned home from a meeting with information about an upcoming KAPA fundraising event. Here is (modified slightly to omit personal information and, in one case [] to put in an alternative spelling) the announcement:

"Public Access Awards and Fundraising Gala

February 21, 2009 at Keegan Ales
Doors open at 7pm... Awards begin at 8pm
Music provided by Sonando begins at 9pm
[Hors d'oeuvres] by Downtown Cafe
Advance Ticket Sales Only! Sorry, no refunds...
$40.00 / Ticket"

Note: the KAPA Commissioners are selling tickets and can access more information [You may submit inquiries for me to pass on through this site, as well) --- so why not save up your pennies and come out (Shake off those winter blues!) for a good party and a good cause? [KAPA / Channel 23 is YOUR local television channel!]

There is an attached raffle opportunity on the tickets, as well.

N.

News Bits and Photo Tricks... Riding the Wave...

[Photo by B.F.]

I don't know about anyone else, but I needed to see something bright and hopeful --- and this photo is right "up there" with seeing the photo of the President Bush Jr.; three former presidents (Clinton, Carter and Bush Sr.); and the president-elect (Obama) on the front page of today's Kingston "Daily Freeman" (P. A1) --- every one of them (even if it hurt!) smiling...

A smile that we all must HOPE (Is Obama working some "magic" here?) speaks of HOPE --- and NOT of superficial and ultimately meaningless (We need some big SINCERE smiles here folks!) facades...

Because the winds of misfortune are blowing...

[Photo by B.F.]

Pretty darn strong for some of us...

And something, somewhere, really needs to give... [in a productive, positive manner!]

[Photo by BF; (Yo B... who IS that guy on the sign?????]

That said, I want to send kudos to Police Chief Gerald Keller and the rest of the local crime-busters (lol) for bringing down (according to a report in today's "Daily Freeman" - PP. A1 & A6) the "serious crime" numbers in the area - with a special thanks to Chief Keller and members of the KPD for (according to the same paper; P. A6) working with a local non-profit agency (Family) to steer "high-risk" youth towards appropriate programs and services!

Because prevention, where "high-risk" youth are concerned, is KEY in my opinion --- with appropriate intervention (counseling, support, etc) being the next best step (when a youth is already making some self-destructive and/or outwardly-destructive choices) along the road that we all must travel... from raging adolescent hormones and identity struggles... to some semblance (oh how I try!) of maturity!

[Photo by BF]

Still (on the subject of serious crimes...) --- I DO have to ask this:

WHY is it that the physical and sexual abuse of children is NOT considered (by the FBI) a SERIOUS crime?????

This is an issue addressed in a couple of the books that I wrote, and truly... inquiring minds WANT TO KNOW...

What (This is a serious question I am putting "out there.) would one have to do (suggestions please?) to remedy this situation?????

[Photo by BF]

And, whilst I am on the topic of serious questions...

Did anyone catch the fact (today's "Daily Freeman", P. A3) that in some cases, the county (UC) is making $95 dollars a day "per inmate" off boarding folks from other counties in the U.C. jail?

This is cool... yeah? Big bucks...

BUT... $95 a day = $665 a week = $34,580 a year...

Which, I have to admit, makes me squirm a little bit! Especially when one considers the fact that a lot of these same folks (the inmates) are out of the workforce, missing child support payments, etc., etc. etc.

Am I glad that something positive (money for the county) is coming out of the whole jail (ahem) fiasco?

Yep.

But when you look at the whole situation - a "little bit" objectively - don't ya' think there has GOT to be a better (for everyone concerned!) way????? [No, I am NOT talking about an Arizona chain-gang!]

[Photo by BF]

How about we put them to work - at minimum wage HUMANE jobs (like moving this community towards going GREEN...) - so that those that need to (speaking of the inmates) CAN pay their child support and/or CAN put money away for housing when they are released?

Just a thought...

I would love (on any or all of these topics) to hear your thoughts, as well! 'Cause this tunnel we are ALL in...

[Photo by BF]

Is going to take a lot of brainstorming... if any and/or all of us are going to make it out (What is the "light at the end of the tunnel?) the other side!

Peace, Love and Humane Justice,

N.

On Site Revisions... Polls

[Photo by B.F.]

It has been a while since I have blogged, and I have found it necessary to revise a few things this time around. Thus, for now I have taken down the polls and revised a couple of other items.

I will get "back in the groove." Please be patient. Is anyone else out there finding this to be a particularly difficult winter... year?????

Thanks for reading,

N.

Inaugural Parties... Inspirational Quotes

[Photo by B.F.]

According to MoveOn Civic Org., there is an inaugural party on Tues, January 20 (starting at 8PM) at Backstage Studios in uptown Kingston.

I have also put in an inquiry with a contact at the Kingston Muddy Cup, as to the possibility of hosting an inaugural celebration event (Same night / around the same time) there.

I will keep you posted on the latter, which might (if approved / workable) be more accessible to some of those that live along the Broadway corridor.

Other than that, I thought I would post a couple of neat inspirational quotes that I came across today:

1. "I am only one; but still I am one; I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do the something I can do" (Helen Keller).

2. "In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock" (Thomas Jefferson).

3. "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be" (Abraham Lincoln).

4. "Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul... And sings the time without words... and never stops... at all" (Emily Dickinson).

BTW, I apologize for the time on my earlier posts being "off". I think I have remedied the problem.

Peace and Good Will Towards All,

N.S.

Some May 31, 1932 Headlines and News Snippets (Wow) from the "Kingston Daily Freeman"

[Photo by B.F.]

1. "President Hoover Advocates Sales Tax... Reduction of Governmental Expenses and Adequate Relief Measures Also Stressed" (P. 1) [Sound Familiar?]

2. "Senate Enacts Bill To Further Increase Income Tax Rates" (P. 1)[Sound familiar?]

3. "J.R. Garfield to Draft G.O.P. Plans" (P.1). Quote: "He (Garfield)... parried all questions on the controversial issues, such as prohibition, with nothing more than a smile" (P. 1)

4. "Governor Roosevelt Speaker at Washington Celebration... Delivered Address at City's Bicentennial Celebration of Birth of Washington..." (PP 1 & 11)["Then" Governor Roosevelt spoke before thousands at Forsythe Park, and the event was followed up by a parade and other events... The City's Mayor, at the time, was Eugene B. Carey.]

5. "Hitler Demands New Elections, President Ponders Over Cabinet" (P. 1) [This was during THAT era...]

Kinda "Awesome" and "Freaky" --- Eh?

N.

City Council Meeting Jan 09

[Photo by B.F.]

Tonight's local City Council meeting was the shortest City Council meeting I have ever attended, with just one gentleman speaking during the open forum - and a short, professionally handled agenda. Some good news (I think) is (1) that a resolution was passed to transfer a parcel of property to Youth Build and (2) Alderman Senor (Kudos) was on top of a minor paperwork glitch (minor, but important "stuff!"), which was amended in session.

Other than that, I tried to find some apropos political humor on You Tube when I got home... but, either I've slipped off the funny-bone track or some of the "stuff" out there lately is a bit vile...

There was one "almost" pick, called "Go Tell it in Accounting" (to the tune of "Go Tell it on the Mountain") - but I passed on it because I wasn't sure what some of the acronyms and such stood for - and ya' can't be too careful with this blogger stuff!

Anyhoot...

Wishing everyone safe travels and warm homes to come back to tonight...

Can April and May come too soon?

N.

"Al Franken to be Named Senate Winner in Minnesota" You Tube

Submitted to You Tube by SwimmingPolarBear on January 04, 2009.

Catskill Mountain Medicine Woman...

[Photo by BF]

Riding the roller coaster of mood swings, big time, I woke up this morning with poetry in my head...

Which IS how it is for me sometimes... weird though that might seem.

So, since I'm blogging (for better or worse) again, I'll treat you (or bore you) with this morning's (a work in progress) "gem."

Catskill Mountain Medicine Woman... [Early 20th Century]
..... A Tribute to my Grandmother

Grandma somehow knew
That a feather mattress
Tucked in the midst of chaos
Could be a little fluff
Of Heaven
Here on earth...

Surrounded as she was
By chickens on the outside
Mounds of newspapers on the inside
And ten times ten of cats
Country fat
Inside and out

And often
Crying...

Grandma somehow knew
In the midst of it all
That words matter
As much
As ginseng
Spider webs
And dandelion wine...

Even as she drifted on a cloud
Perhaps plucked
By her own hand...

Never having found a God
Nor church
That brought
Her comfort

On those cold nights
Of alone-ness
When the wind was sharp, and
The woodpile
Running low...

Grandma somehow knew
That we all try
And we all cry

For mother's milk
Though a cow's would do...

Until Grandpa smothered
From the weight of it all...
And the barn became
An battered image of
Despair...


Where is reason?
Where is rhyme?


As the passage of time
Planted a trailer
Where wonder
Once lived...

With blackberry bushes
Mountain laurel
And shame...


Where is loss?
Where is gain?


In those fields of eternity
Where grandma and grandpa
First kissed...
Birthed a vast brood
Of children...
Added me to this list...

Or tapestry of Whitman's
Shadow...
As he roamed
The "open road..."

Yes Grandma, I know...

Some spirts lead the way...
Some fall behind.

[Postscript: The collective greed of civilization touches every one of us
with a little fluff Of Heaven and a little taste of Hell...

I'm glad Grandma found a soft place to lay down...]

N.S.

FYI: "Child Poverty in America"... Children's Defense Fund Founder, Marian Wright Edelman... You Tube

Submitted to You Tube by FORA Tv in November 2008; Complete video: http://fora.tv/2008/10/27/M...

Question for Today... "Declaration of the Rights of the Child" (Old Document / United Nations)

[Photo / Creative Imagery by B.F.]

As I attempt to learn some new software programs and get craaaazy... I thought I would take a break and post something positive. This document might have changed since I got a copy of it in my college days, but here (fundamentally) it is:

"Declaration of the Rights of the Child" (United Nations)

"Every child in the world has rights!

1. Every child has the right to be strong and healthy in mind and body

2. Every child has the right to have a name and a country.

3. Every child has the right to have enough food to eat, a place to live, and a doctor's care.

4. Every child who is handicapped has the right to special treatment and care.

5. Every child has the right to grow up in a family feeling safe, loved and understood.

6. Every child has the right to go to school and to play.

7. Every child has the right to be protected from cruelty or unfair treatment.

8. Every child has the right to grow up without fear and hatred, and with love, peace, and friendship all around.

Children are wonderful gifts. As with all gifts, there is a responsibility involved in keeping that gift safe and at its best. Parents and all adults are accountable and must be sure that a child's freedom and privileges are always respected While we are telling children how grateful we are for their many many special ways, we also need to consider the rights of the child that belong to them. These rights are obvious and should be given without any conditions."

Question for Today:

How are WE doing in this department?

Peace, Love and Humane Justice,

N.