["The Law in Cyberspace"; as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6empekMld0]
["Privacy Issues";
as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJeuJtduwCw]
["Who Owns Your E-mail?"; as submitted to You Tube by bentleyuniversity on April 14, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUoP5WytUWA]
FROM My (Bob Smith and Nancy Smith)... Email...
From Lisa Alt, FOPA Board Member:
"Hi Commissioners,
I've attached copies of the lease agreement between
FOPA and the seven21 media center. This email contains
pages 1-6. The next email will have the remaining
pages. Sorry they got scanned upside down.
These are considered private documents and I am asking
that you not share this with anyone outside of the
Commission.
When is the meeting scheduled? Any word?
thanks,
Lisa L Alt"
My Response:
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2009 11:10 AM
From: jsmith37@hvc.rr.com
To: lisalalt@hotmail.com, cjfe@hvc.rr.com,
mercedesross@aol.com,
MsGeriB@aol.com, shelzanne@aol.com,
marchetti813@verizon.net,
oost48@yahoo.com,
MAYOR@CI.KINGSTON.NY.US,
corpcounsel@kingston-ny.gov
Subject: Re: copy of Lease agreement / From Nancy Smith
on behalf of KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith
"To FOPA Board Member, Lisa Alt,
You are well aware (Bob has been forthright about this
at meetings) that I handle the computer communications
- emails - etc.) for Bob. Thus, I will not download
these "private" attachments (Nor do I suggest that any
of the others [receiving] this email do so); but would
ask you, on Bob's behalf, to bring a copy of same
(as you said at the last meeting, copies can be made at
City Hall for no cost) to the next meeting - which is
a KAPA workshop that is being held on Tuesday, June
30th, 2009 - 7PM - Conference Room 1 - Kingston City Hall.
By the way, since you left the last KAPA meeting early,
when and where is the next FOPA meeting? I would like
to put the notice up on my blogsite, and I'm sure Bob
and the other KAPA Commissioners would appreciate the
information.
Nancy Smith"
Thursday, June 25, 2009
KAPA Meeting Notes June 23 2009 Part II
[Temporary KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner Bob Smith at "Make-a-Difference Day"; Photo by N.S.]As committed to, here is the second round of meeting notes. Please scroll down for the intro, basics, lead in, part I...
KAPA Commissioner, Shelly Zimbler, gave a verbal secretary report (accepted) - starting with the fact that three KAPA Commissioners had resigned in the last few months, including Colin Evans, Tim Morrison and Lisa Alt [All three FOPA members / the entire FOPA Board...].
Shelly Zimbler also spoke about a meeting that had been attended by five KAPA Commissioners - with Kingston City Mayor James Sottille. It was reported that the Mayor had a voucher made out ($400) for KAPA - for the specific purpose of youth programming - and that Mayor Sottille indicated that he (through the formal process / City of Kingston) might contribute $5,000 to KAPA - if Nicky Worner (sp? / Town of Ulster) did the same. [The issue of matching funds or reasonable contributions (in regard to the smaller townships) from the other municipalities involved in KAPA has come up numerous times; I'm not going into the history of all of that...]
Shelly Zimbler indicated that Mayor Sottile had also offered to help access a truck and volunteers in order to help out during KAPA's projected move into a new facility [a contract (there are unanswered question regarding this...) has reputedly been signed - via FOPA - with what has been termed the 7-21 building or Ellenbogen (sp?) building (The former home of RNN?) - for use as a KAPA studio] ---
But in terms of all of the above --- Mayor James Sottile (here you have it :) had also asked for more financial [presumably regarding KAPA and FOPA] transparency.
[Friends of Public Access (FOPA) has subsequently - via Susan Holt (U.C. Executive Heins office) - been identified as a registered Non-Profit organization in the State of N.Y. However, no other information on FOPA was accessible (via a quick check by Ms. Holt) regarding FOPA; and, as has been noted previously, the members of FOPA (I have witnessed this and so have others) appear to evade answering direct questions (sometimes this is done by talking around the issue, sometimes by leaving a meeting early, etc.) regarding FOPA specifics; and at least one FOPA board member (see the next set of notes...) has made the claim that FOPA does not have to comply (?) with open meeting laws, etc.]
Commissioner and Temporary KAPA Chair, Bob Smith - gave the budget report for KAPA - which amounted to zip... as KAPA has no bank account or funds at its own disposal [Everything (in terms of money) is being handled [?????] by FOPA...]
[The last proposed (and admittedly idealistic) budget that the KAPA Commission has on file was made out by Bob Smith (acting as group treasurer / working in collusion with KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti) - with a copy submitted to (to the best of my knowlege) the members of the KAPA Commission, FOPA (if it was then in existance as such) members, the Safety and Cable Commission, the Kingston City Common Council members and Mayor Sottile.]
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti asked if FOPA could help out with the budget report - as KAPA needs to know where they stand - what funds they are working with - etc. There was (at this point) no answer given [Perhaps (?????) because this was to be addressed later?]
Shelly Zimbler noted that Henry Ellenbogen (sp?) - the newly appointed KAPA Commissioner (not present) was (he is associated with the contracted usage of the Ellenbogen building, etc.) willing to help train and certify people (on the equipment) - and that this was a "bonus."
KAPA Commissioner Bob Smith's KAPA Treasurer report (KAPA balance on file: $0 / all funds are in a FOPA account, and KAPA reputedly needs "permission" and "approval" - to access these...) was accepted as given.
-------------------------------------------------
With that, I guess there is going to be a KAPA Meeting Notes Part III, so please stay tuned...
These meeting tend to go on (sometimes) for hours; there is rarely (hardly ever) a quorum present; very little ever seems to be agreed upon or accomplished during the meetings...; and it might appear to some other people (as it does to me...) that "all is not right" (in regard to the relationship between KAPA and FOPA...) "with the world")]
-----------------------------------------------
Once again, I refer you to a video clip [see producer specifics in the related post below and/or on the source blog] that covered a portion of this meeting...
This video clip, titled, "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event" is up on the "Kingston News Blog" at (please copy and paste this in the address bar):
http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Chaos and Confusion... KAPA and FOPA Times Ten... Passing on Info from Gov Paterson... Kudos and Comments... Some Local...
"On Tuesday, June 23, 2009, Manhattan Institute senior fellow and City Journal senior editor Steven Malanga was on WNBC News talking about how much the dysfunction and chaos in the NY State Senate i..."
["Steven Malanga on WNBC News"; as submitted to You Tube by ManhattanInstitute on June 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm-tZxNBuEU]
The following, from "Governor Paterson Continues to Call for Extraordinary Sessions of the Senate". has been copied and pasted (from my email) / edited slightly / and condensed (There were many other statements included in the original) for placement here:
"Dear New Yorker,
Yesterday afternoon, Governor Paterson again told the New York State Senate to stop playing games and get back to work on the people’s business.
“They have clearly forgotten who they serve," said Governor Paterson. "There are 19 million people in this state whose healthcare and education and public safety depend on our action. It’s time to get back to work. They should stay here every day – Saturdays, Sundays, July 4, and every other time, until they remember that they work for the people of New York and not for themselves...”
[---------------------------------------------------]
"Here is what other leaders statewide [bold print mine] have been saying in support of Governor Paterson’s call for continued extraordinary sessions of the New York State Senate:
Statement from Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for NY...
“The Partnership for New York City strongly supports Governor Paterson’s call for a special session of the State Legislature to deal with priority issues on a bipartisan basis. We urge the Republican and Democratic conferences to break the political deadlock and resume work on crucial legislation including Mayoral control of New York City public schools and the tax bills and extenders necessary for state and local government to function. Ongoing legislative inaction on these key issues threatens New York’s status as a business capital.”
Statement from Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director, New York Conference of Mayors...
“The time has come to put an end to the gridlock that has crippled the New York State Senate. Numerous bills are not being addressed which, if left to languish, will directly harm New York’s local governments and their taxpayers. The longer the stalemate goes on, the more uncertain local officials become about the stability of their budgets and the future of their communities. NYCOM commends Governor Paterson for his leadership in attempting to facilitate a resolution to this impasse. Now it is up to the members, as public servants, to settle their differences and do what they were elected to do – act in the best interest of all New Yorkers.”
Statement from Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez: “Amid all of the confusion and chaos in the State Senate, Governor Paterson has showed determined leadership and presented a clear message that we must set aside petty politics and put the needs of the people of New York first. He recognizes that through chaos can come opportunity, and we must use this moment to refocus on the issues that matter most to the people of New York...”
Statement from County Executive Mike Hein, County of Ulster: "My concerns are for the property tax payers of Ulster County and all of New York State. I want to commend Governor Paterson for calling the State Senate back into session. In these challenging times, it is essential the people’s work be completed and an important step is taken towards restoring public faith in State Government..."
Statement from Kenneth Adams, President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State... “Extension of the state’s Power for Jobs programs is crucial to hundreds of employers, and hundreds of thousands of workers across New York. This program helps energy-intensive businesses stay competitive, in the face of high in-state power costs. We appreciate Gov. David Paterson making this extension a priority. The Business Council urges the Senate to pass this extension before it sunsets...”
Statement from Tom Hoffay, Alderman, City of Kingston: “I am very supportive of Governor Patterson's decision to call a special session of the NYS Senate, in an attempt to end this dreadful stalemate in state government. The Governor's initiative is a welcome change from the State Senate's partisan and frivolous bickering over the past few weeks. With so many important and challenging decisions to be made, the Senate's inactivity has been shameful...”
Statement from President of NARAL Pro-Choice New York Kelli Conlin: “Yesterday, Governor David Paterson, long considered to be a supporter of women’s issues, announced that he ‘will call the Senate into session every day until the people's business is discharged.’
"NARAL Pro-Choice New York, on behalf of the women of our state, calls upon the Governor to live up to his commitment to these issues and place the Reproductive Health Act – landmark legislation to codify Roe v Wade in New York State – on the Senate’s agenda. We likewise call upon the Senators to live up to their commitments and affirm women’s health and rights by passing this bill.
"Before the coup threw the Senate into disarray, the Reproductive Health Act (which has the support of 75% of New Yorkers across all party lines and demographics) was scheduled for a June 10 Senate vote. NARAL Pro-Choice New York had commitments from 34 senators, across party lines, to pass a clean bill. But, as we all know, an ill-advised power play two days earlier derailed the Reproductive Health Act, along with the state’s other pending legislation.
"With this Extraordinary Session the Governor and the Senate now have an extraordinary window of opportunity to stand up for the women who helped elect them by standing up for women’s health and rights -- an issue that is most assuredly the ‘people’s business.’
"Let's make sure the Reproductive Health Act is not among the casualties of this fiasco...”
Statement from James M. Stewart, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region: "Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Governor Paterson to add Reproductive Health Act to the Senate’s agenda
"As a reproductive health care provider, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Gov. David Paterson and the New York State Senate to ensure the consistent delivery of women’s reproductive health care in New York State by advancing the Reproductive Health Act (RHA) this session. RHA will codify Roe v. Wade by updating New York’s 1970 reproductive health laws.
'The Governor has been clear in his stance that protecting women’s health is a priority for New York State,' said Jim Stewart, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region. 'We urge him to take action by putting the RHA on the Senate’s agenda this week, and we call on the Senate to pass it into law.'
"There is bi-partisan support for RHA, and the Senate’s derailment should not change that. 'Approximately three-quarters of NewYork voters support RHA—those same voters who elected our Senators to perform their jobs for the good of the people of New York State,' said Stewart. 'They haven’t done that in several weeks, and it is time they get back to work.'
"Nearly 85 percent of New York voters say they want the State to play an active role in protecting and strengthening reproductive health care. Passing the Reproductive Health Act answers this call."
Statement from Moises Perez, Executive Director Alianza Dominicana: "We commend and Support Governor David A. Paterson for his leadership in convening a special session to remind senate members to get back to work and also to remember that their mission is to serve the Tax payers of NYS.
Statement from Rosita M. Romero, Executive Director, Dominican Women Development Center: "We support Governor Paterson- It’s about time that senate members put their political differences aside and get busy addressing our real needs as taxpayers.”
Statement from Ron Thiele, Executive Director, Stanley Center for the Arts...
“As head of a not-for-profit that enjoys a productive partnership with New York State, I applaud your leadership as Governor to engage the legislature and its full capacity to serve its powerful partnership with every citizen and organization and business in New York State.”
Statement from Philip Banks, Jr., President, One Hundred Black Men, Inc...
“As President of One Hundred Black Men NY, I find it appalling that politics are ruling the day in the State Senate while the business of the New York goes unattended. I applaud Governor Paterson’s leadership in bringing our legislative body back to serving the interests of the people...”
Statement from Randy Wolken, President of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY): “On behalf of New York State's manufacturing community, it is essential for the Legislature to act before June 30 to extend the Power For Jobs and Energy Cost Saving Benefit Program. During such troubling economic times, it is critical to protect our businesses in any way possible. I would like to thank Governor Paterson for his recognition of the time sensitivity and critical nature of this program, and making the passage of the extension his number one priority...”
Statement from Nick Lugo, President of the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: "As business men and women we are in full support of our Governor, David A. Paterson, to restore Albany and give the people of NYS confidence that he understands that in these difficult times we need to stimulate the economy and get back to business. Legislators stop wasting taxpayers' money…"
... Statement from Walt Dixie, Founder, Alliance Network: "I am expressing the following comments regarding Governor Paterson’s decision to call a special session of the state senate today at 3:00 pm. In the midst of economic downturn, uncertainty, and an overwhelming need to build community capacity, it is utterly ridiculous that the NY State Senate has put the business and decisions that impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers on hold while they engage in a bitter and fruitless power struggle. I am happy that the governor has taken a stand and asserted his authority to bring the Senate to order. Governor Paterson deserves much credit for taking on the plethora of challenges that face New Yorkers head on. Thereby, I can only hope that this pointless bickering will be put aside and that the Senate will recognize that they were elected to work to enhance societal welfare and not to advance their own agenda.”
Statement from Lillian Rodriguez Lopez, President of the Hispanic Federation...
“New York State is at a critical juncture for many important budget and legislative actions. Governor Paterson’s goal to continue to move the state forward requires action by the State Senate following the example already set by Speaker Silver and the members of the Assembly. There are many issues that remain to be addressed in addition to those recently articulated by the Governor. “
Statement from Ron Soloway, Managing Director, UJA Federation of New York...
"We applaud Governor Paterson for calling a special session of the State Senate so that pending legislation benefiting the poor and vulnerable can be enacted. These include such crucial items as Timothy’s Law (mental health parity), an extension of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (special education), an extension of legislation that will insure that non profit organizations providing essential services on behalf of state government can have their contracts processed in a timely manner, and many others."
Statement from William Rapfogel, CEO of the Metropolitan Council of Jewish Poverty... "So much needs to be done to help the state grapple with the economic crisis that the Governor has demonstrated critical leadership in calling this special session."
Statement from Lucille McEwen, President, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI): “The Governor has exercised leadership and has called for the Special Session of the legislature. The Senators must take up the critical business of the people in these trying times. The business of the people has been delayed for too long and critical legislation that impacts all New Yorkers should be addressed. We may all suffer if order is not restored to the chaos in Albany...”
Statement from Zenaida Mendez, Founder National Dominican Women's Caucus...
“Someone said: ‘A leader has two important characteristics: first, s/he knows where she/he is going; second, s/he is able to persuade people to go with her.’ Governor Paterson today can count on the people of the State of New York to follow him re-engaging the men and women elected to represent us in doing what we are paying them with our tax dollar to do...”
- The Office of Governor Paterson"
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov)
New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224...
Copyright 2009 New York State. All rights reserved.
Respectfully Passed on by,
NS
["Steven Malanga on WNBC News"; as submitted to You Tube by ManhattanInstitute on June 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm-tZxNBuEU]
The following, from "Governor Paterson Continues to Call for Extraordinary Sessions of the Senate". has been copied and pasted (from my email) / edited slightly / and condensed (There were many other statements included in the original) for placement here:
"Dear New Yorker,
Yesterday afternoon, Governor Paterson again told the New York State Senate to stop playing games and get back to work on the people’s business.
“They have clearly forgotten who they serve," said Governor Paterson. "There are 19 million people in this state whose healthcare and education and public safety depend on our action. It’s time to get back to work. They should stay here every day – Saturdays, Sundays, July 4, and every other time, until they remember that they work for the people of New York and not for themselves...”
[---------------------------------------------------]
"Here is what other leaders statewide [bold print mine] have been saying in support of Governor Paterson’s call for continued extraordinary sessions of the New York State Senate:
Statement from Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for NY...
“The Partnership for New York City strongly supports Governor Paterson’s call for a special session of the State Legislature to deal with priority issues on a bipartisan basis. We urge the Republican and Democratic conferences to break the political deadlock and resume work on crucial legislation including Mayoral control of New York City public schools and the tax bills and extenders necessary for state and local government to function. Ongoing legislative inaction on these key issues threatens New York’s status as a business capital.”
Statement from Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director, New York Conference of Mayors...
“The time has come to put an end to the gridlock that has crippled the New York State Senate. Numerous bills are not being addressed which, if left to languish, will directly harm New York’s local governments and their taxpayers. The longer the stalemate goes on, the more uncertain local officials become about the stability of their budgets and the future of their communities. NYCOM commends Governor Paterson for his leadership in attempting to facilitate a resolution to this impasse. Now it is up to the members, as public servants, to settle their differences and do what they were elected to do – act in the best interest of all New Yorkers.”
Statement from Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez: “Amid all of the confusion and chaos in the State Senate, Governor Paterson has showed determined leadership and presented a clear message that we must set aside petty politics and put the needs of the people of New York first. He recognizes that through chaos can come opportunity, and we must use this moment to refocus on the issues that matter most to the people of New York...”
Statement from County Executive Mike Hein, County of Ulster: "My concerns are for the property tax payers of Ulster County and all of New York State. I want to commend Governor Paterson for calling the State Senate back into session. In these challenging times, it is essential the people’s work be completed and an important step is taken towards restoring public faith in State Government..."
Statement from Kenneth Adams, President & CEO of The Business Council of New York State... “Extension of the state’s Power for Jobs programs is crucial to hundreds of employers, and hundreds of thousands of workers across New York. This program helps energy-intensive businesses stay competitive, in the face of high in-state power costs. We appreciate Gov. David Paterson making this extension a priority. The Business Council urges the Senate to pass this extension before it sunsets...”
Statement from Tom Hoffay, Alderman, City of Kingston: “I am very supportive of Governor Patterson's decision to call a special session of the NYS Senate, in an attempt to end this dreadful stalemate in state government. The Governor's initiative is a welcome change from the State Senate's partisan and frivolous bickering over the past few weeks. With so many important and challenging decisions to be made, the Senate's inactivity has been shameful...”
Statement from President of NARAL Pro-Choice New York Kelli Conlin: “Yesterday, Governor David Paterson, long considered to be a supporter of women’s issues, announced that he ‘will call the Senate into session every day until the people's business is discharged.’
"NARAL Pro-Choice New York, on behalf of the women of our state, calls upon the Governor to live up to his commitment to these issues and place the Reproductive Health Act – landmark legislation to codify Roe v Wade in New York State – on the Senate’s agenda. We likewise call upon the Senators to live up to their commitments and affirm women’s health and rights by passing this bill.
"Before the coup threw the Senate into disarray, the Reproductive Health Act (which has the support of 75% of New Yorkers across all party lines and demographics) was scheduled for a June 10 Senate vote. NARAL Pro-Choice New York had commitments from 34 senators, across party lines, to pass a clean bill. But, as we all know, an ill-advised power play two days earlier derailed the Reproductive Health Act, along with the state’s other pending legislation.
"With this Extraordinary Session the Governor and the Senate now have an extraordinary window of opportunity to stand up for the women who helped elect them by standing up for women’s health and rights -- an issue that is most assuredly the ‘people’s business.’
"Let's make sure the Reproductive Health Act is not among the casualties of this fiasco...”
Statement from James M. Stewart, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region: "Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Governor Paterson to add Reproductive Health Act to the Senate’s agenda
"As a reproductive health care provider, Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region calls on Gov. David Paterson and the New York State Senate to ensure the consistent delivery of women’s reproductive health care in New York State by advancing the Reproductive Health Act (RHA) this session. RHA will codify Roe v. Wade by updating New York’s 1970 reproductive health laws.
'The Governor has been clear in his stance that protecting women’s health is a priority for New York State,' said Jim Stewart, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region. 'We urge him to take action by putting the RHA on the Senate’s agenda this week, and we call on the Senate to pass it into law.'
"There is bi-partisan support for RHA, and the Senate’s derailment should not change that. 'Approximately three-quarters of NewYork voters support RHA—those same voters who elected our Senators to perform their jobs for the good of the people of New York State,' said Stewart. 'They haven’t done that in several weeks, and it is time they get back to work.'
"Nearly 85 percent of New York voters say they want the State to play an active role in protecting and strengthening reproductive health care. Passing the Reproductive Health Act answers this call."
Statement from Moises Perez, Executive Director Alianza Dominicana: "We commend and Support Governor David A. Paterson for his leadership in convening a special session to remind senate members to get back to work and also to remember that their mission is to serve the Tax payers of NYS.
Statement from Rosita M. Romero, Executive Director, Dominican Women Development Center: "We support Governor Paterson- It’s about time that senate members put their political differences aside and get busy addressing our real needs as taxpayers.”
Statement from Ron Thiele, Executive Director, Stanley Center for the Arts...
“As head of a not-for-profit that enjoys a productive partnership with New York State, I applaud your leadership as Governor to engage the legislature and its full capacity to serve its powerful partnership with every citizen and organization and business in New York State.”
Statement from Philip Banks, Jr., President, One Hundred Black Men, Inc...
“As President of One Hundred Black Men NY, I find it appalling that politics are ruling the day in the State Senate while the business of the New York goes unattended. I applaud Governor Paterson’s leadership in bringing our legislative body back to serving the interests of the people...”
Statement from Randy Wolken, President of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY): “On behalf of New York State's manufacturing community, it is essential for the Legislature to act before June 30 to extend the Power For Jobs and Energy Cost Saving Benefit Program. During such troubling economic times, it is critical to protect our businesses in any way possible. I would like to thank Governor Paterson for his recognition of the time sensitivity and critical nature of this program, and making the passage of the extension his number one priority...”
Statement from Nick Lugo, President of the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: "As business men and women we are in full support of our Governor, David A. Paterson, to restore Albany and give the people of NYS confidence that he understands that in these difficult times we need to stimulate the economy and get back to business. Legislators stop wasting taxpayers' money…"
... Statement from Walt Dixie, Founder, Alliance Network: "I am expressing the following comments regarding Governor Paterson’s decision to call a special session of the state senate today at 3:00 pm. In the midst of economic downturn, uncertainty, and an overwhelming need to build community capacity, it is utterly ridiculous that the NY State Senate has put the business and decisions that impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers on hold while they engage in a bitter and fruitless power struggle. I am happy that the governor has taken a stand and asserted his authority to bring the Senate to order. Governor Paterson deserves much credit for taking on the plethora of challenges that face New Yorkers head on. Thereby, I can only hope that this pointless bickering will be put aside and that the Senate will recognize that they were elected to work to enhance societal welfare and not to advance their own agenda.”
Statement from Lillian Rodriguez Lopez, President of the Hispanic Federation...
“New York State is at a critical juncture for many important budget and legislative actions. Governor Paterson’s goal to continue to move the state forward requires action by the State Senate following the example already set by Speaker Silver and the members of the Assembly. There are many issues that remain to be addressed in addition to those recently articulated by the Governor. “
Statement from Ron Soloway, Managing Director, UJA Federation of New York...
"We applaud Governor Paterson for calling a special session of the State Senate so that pending legislation benefiting the poor and vulnerable can be enacted. These include such crucial items as Timothy’s Law (mental health parity), an extension of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (special education), an extension of legislation that will insure that non profit organizations providing essential services on behalf of state government can have their contracts processed in a timely manner, and many others."
Statement from William Rapfogel, CEO of the Metropolitan Council of Jewish Poverty... "So much needs to be done to help the state grapple with the economic crisis that the Governor has demonstrated critical leadership in calling this special session."
Statement from Lucille McEwen, President, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI): “The Governor has exercised leadership and has called for the Special Session of the legislature. The Senators must take up the critical business of the people in these trying times. The business of the people has been delayed for too long and critical legislation that impacts all New Yorkers should be addressed. We may all suffer if order is not restored to the chaos in Albany...”
Statement from Zenaida Mendez, Founder National Dominican Women's Caucus...
“Someone said: ‘A leader has two important characteristics: first, s/he knows where she/he is going; second, s/he is able to persuade people to go with her.’ Governor Paterson today can count on the people of the State of New York to follow him re-engaging the men and women elected to represent us in doing what we are paying them with our tax dollar to do...”
- The Office of Governor Paterson"
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov)
New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224...
Copyright 2009 New York State. All rights reserved.
Respectfully Passed on by,
NS
Kingston Area Public Access Meeting Notes and Commentary Part 1... Sunshine... Leslie Gore... You Tube
["Sunshine Laws 2009"; as submitted to You Tube by OhioAttorneyGeneral on March 12, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvu7X7QZExw]
Due to time considerations (I still have one completed interview to post - and another pending) the Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting Notes will be published (along with my commentary, which will be provided in brackets) in sections. I am not the groups secretary; and it would appear, at this time, that no one is officially taking down (in writing) meeting notes - so this is my (facts intact, but with personal views attached) contribution.
Individuals Present at the June 23, 2009 KAPA Commission Meeting:
KAPA Commissioners Present:
Bob Smith, Temporary Chair and Commissioner
Shelly Zimbler, Commissioner
Joe Marchetti, Commissioner
Geri Breen, Commissioner
Mercedes Ross, Commissioner
[It was relayed, at the meeting that Mayor Sottile had appointed another KAPA (Representing the City of Kingston) Commissioner, Henry Ellenbogen (sp?); Mr. Ellenbogen was not present at the KAPA meeting)]
[With this addition, KAPA has a total of six active Commissioners, with what appears to be five (Is this correct?) open Commission slots - reflecting one opening each in the Town of Kingston, Town of Hurley, Town of Marbletown, Town of Rosendale and the Town of Ulster]
Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members Present:
Colin Evans, FOPA Director, Former KAPA Commissioner
Lisa Alt, FOPA Chairperson, Former KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner
Tim Morrison, FOPA Board Member, Former KAPA Commissioner
[This represents the entire FOPA Board, which alternately describes itself as a private enterprise - best run on "business" principals - as a non-for-profit incorporated entity - and as a public entity.]
Other Individuals Present:
Theresa Washington [City of Kingston resident that has expressed a desire to be on the Commission]
Ron M (sp?) [Former KAPA Commissioner]
Chris ---------- [Interested in getting involved in KAPA / Production Background]
Art Richters: Single Payer / Universal Health Care Advocate and Community Activist that previously had a very informative show on KAPA]
Clark Richter: Community Activist, Former KAPA Producer; Regular KAPA Commission Meeting Attendee; Fellow Blogger [Please see the associated video and write up on the "The Kingston News Blog" - "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event"; http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html ]
Myself (Nancy Smith, Concerned City of Kingston Citizen; Attendee at Numerous KAPA Meetings and City of Kingston Meetings; Community Activist; Blogger]
[Please forgive me if I missed anyone or misspelled any names; if there are corrections to be made please let me know!]
--------------------------------------------------------------
First Item on the Agenda: Open Speaking...
1. I read my prepared document (see threads below) and gave a copy to the KAPA Commissioners, FOPA Board Members and other individuals in attendance.
2. Lisa Alt [FOPA] contested the idea of a quorum change and/or change in bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal Laws regarding same... [Ms. Alt would not provide a direct answer, however, as to who wrote / approved the current quorum rules or bylaws - she would only state, generically, the "Commission."]
3. Tim Morrison [FOPA] also contested the idea of a quorum change and/or a change in the bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal laws regarding same. [Tim Morrison later (still in the meeting context) advised me (us?) to look up the "General Construction Law" - which he says dictates KAPA and/or FOPA rules regarding Bylaws and/or Quorums... I did so, and after wading through a number (ahem) of how to construct buildings and such laws... came across this:
-------------------------------------------------------
Insert: "GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW"
"§41. Quorum and majority
Whenever three or more public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are charged with any public duty to be performed or exercised by them jointly or as a board or similar body, a majority of the whole number of such persons or officers, at a meeting duly held at a time fixed by law, or by any by-law duly adopted by such board or body, or at any duly adjourned meeting of such meeting, or at any meeting duly held upon reasonable notice to all of them, shall constitute a quorum and not less than a majority of the whole number may perform and exercise such power, authority or duty. For the purpose of this provision the words “whole number” shall be construed to mean the total number which the board, commission, body or other group of persons or officers would have were there no vacancies and were none of the persons or officers disqualified from acting. As amended L.1948, c.320, eff. March 21, 1948. "
Added by Me / NS - Source: [doc] GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW. §41. Quorum and majority. Whenever three or more
public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are...
schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/EB063CC7-8CB9-4FB0-B071-9442F73F4C7D/35595/GENERALCONSTRUCTIONLAW.doc – Similar pages
Bold Print Mine
----------------------------------------------------------
That said [If KAPA and/or FOPA are subject to the provisions noted above - it would appear to be a bit (61 years) out-dated...] --- Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith noted that even with all of the Commissioners present at the meeting (barring the new appointee) - KAPA - under current reputed KAPA Bylaw and Quorum requirement restraints - could (This is with all current appointees present! See the problem here!) NOT claim a quorum, hold votes on any pertinent matters or move forward on any substantial motions!
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was reputedly no quorum at the last meeting either (and this appears to be the norm...) - which explains, in part, why very little appears to get accomplished at KAPA Commission meetings! [Bringing the potential issue of a needed revision of the KAPA bylaws and/or quorum requirements - as was put forth on Commissioner Bob Smiths' Agenda and on the paper I turned in (copy below) - as well.]
------------------------------------------------------------
With that, I will end for now (There are more notes to cover) - except to state that I just received a call from U.C. Executive Michael Heins office - and that I will be following up on this issue from various (research / contacts / etc.) angles.
This is, primarily, a City of Kingston (also involving the other municipalities involved in KAPA) issue. However, it may be that Legislative changes [regarding, at the very least, this outdated and apparently - for KAPA purposes - law] might be called for.
Stay tuned...
There is also the issue as to:
1. Whether or not FOPA has the right (as they claim) to dictate duties to KAPA Commissioners and handle all KAPA monies...
2. The question as to who signed a contract between KAPA and FOPA? (Is there a signed contract? None of the current KAPA Commissioners have apparently even seen such a contract as of last night...) between KAPA and FOPA?
3. Is FOPA (which appears - in my opinion, and echoed by others - to evade any direct questions - and does not provide copies of contracts, receipts, etc. to KAPA...) helping or hurting the stated goals of KAPA?
4. Where does this go from here? [Input, suggestions, legal advisers, folks associated with other Public Access stations, etc. are more than welcome to comment!]
---------------------------------------------------------
Just for fun...
["Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows (Re-make)"; as submitted to You Tube by Snookiebutt
August 30, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVQMNM4dRAg]
Thank You,
NS
Due to time considerations (I still have one completed interview to post - and another pending) the Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting Notes will be published (along with my commentary, which will be provided in brackets) in sections. I am not the groups secretary; and it would appear, at this time, that no one is officially taking down (in writing) meeting notes - so this is my (facts intact, but with personal views attached) contribution.
Individuals Present at the June 23, 2009 KAPA Commission Meeting:
KAPA Commissioners Present:
Bob Smith, Temporary Chair and Commissioner
Shelly Zimbler, Commissioner
Joe Marchetti, Commissioner
Geri Breen, Commissioner
Mercedes Ross, Commissioner
[It was relayed, at the meeting that Mayor Sottile had appointed another KAPA (Representing the City of Kingston) Commissioner, Henry Ellenbogen (sp?); Mr. Ellenbogen was not present at the KAPA meeting)]
[With this addition, KAPA has a total of six active Commissioners, with what appears to be five (Is this correct?) open Commission slots - reflecting one opening each in the Town of Kingston, Town of Hurley, Town of Marbletown, Town of Rosendale and the Town of Ulster]
Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members Present:
Colin Evans, FOPA Director, Former KAPA Commissioner
Lisa Alt, FOPA Chairperson, Former KAPA Chairperson and Commissioner
Tim Morrison, FOPA Board Member, Former KAPA Commissioner
[This represents the entire FOPA Board, which alternately describes itself as a private enterprise - best run on "business" principals - as a non-for-profit incorporated entity - and as a public entity.]
Other Individuals Present:
Theresa Washington [City of Kingston resident that has expressed a desire to be on the Commission]
Ron M (sp?) [Former KAPA Commissioner]
Chris ---------- [Interested in getting involved in KAPA / Production Background]
Art Richters: Single Payer / Universal Health Care Advocate and Community Activist that previously had a very informative show on KAPA]
Clark Richter: Community Activist, Former KAPA Producer; Regular KAPA Commission Meeting Attendee; Fellow Blogger [Please see the associated video and write up on the "The Kingston News Blog" - "Friends of Public Access (FOPA), Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) at Odds Over Funding on this event"; http://ucpnews.blogspot.com/2009/06/friends-of-public-access-fopa-kingston.html ]
Myself (Nancy Smith, Concerned City of Kingston Citizen; Attendee at Numerous KAPA Meetings and City of Kingston Meetings; Community Activist; Blogger]
[Please forgive me if I missed anyone or misspelled any names; if there are corrections to be made please let me know!]
--------------------------------------------------------------
First Item on the Agenda: Open Speaking...
1. I read my prepared document (see threads below) and gave a copy to the KAPA Commissioners, FOPA Board Members and other individuals in attendance.
2. Lisa Alt [FOPA] contested the idea of a quorum change and/or change in bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal Laws regarding same... [Ms. Alt would not provide a direct answer, however, as to who wrote / approved the current quorum rules or bylaws - she would only state, generically, the "Commission."]
3. Tim Morrison [FOPA] also contested the idea of a quorum change and/or a change in the bylaws regarding a quorum change - based (allegedly) on State and/or Federal laws regarding same. [Tim Morrison later (still in the meeting context) advised me (us?) to look up the "General Construction Law" - which he says dictates KAPA and/or FOPA rules regarding Bylaws and/or Quorums... I did so, and after wading through a number (ahem) of how to construct buildings and such laws... came across this:
-------------------------------------------------------
Insert: "GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW"
"§41. Quorum and majority
Whenever three or more public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are charged with any public duty to be performed or exercised by them jointly or as a board or similar body, a majority of the whole number of such persons or officers, at a meeting duly held at a time fixed by law, or by any by-law duly adopted by such board or body, or at any duly adjourned meeting of such meeting, or at any meeting duly held upon reasonable notice to all of them, shall constitute a quorum and not less than a majority of the whole number may perform and exercise such power, authority or duty. For the purpose of this provision the words “whole number” shall be construed to mean the total number which the board, commission, body or other group of persons or officers would have were there no vacancies and were none of the persons or officers disqualified from acting. As amended L.1948, c.320, eff. March 21, 1948. "
Added by Me / NS - Source: [doc] GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LAW. §41. Quorum and majority. Whenever three or more
public officers are given any power or authority, or three or more persons are...
schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/EB063CC7-8CB9-4FB0-B071-9442F73F4C7D/35595/GENERALCONSTRUCTIONLAW.doc – Similar pages
Bold Print Mine
----------------------------------------------------------
That said [If KAPA and/or FOPA are subject to the provisions noted above - it would appear to be a bit (61 years) out-dated...] --- Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith noted that even with all of the Commissioners present at the meeting (barring the new appointee) - KAPA - under current reputed KAPA Bylaw and Quorum requirement restraints - could (This is with all current appointees present! See the problem here!) NOT claim a quorum, hold votes on any pertinent matters or move forward on any substantial motions!
-----------------------------------------------------------
There was reputedly no quorum at the last meeting either (and this appears to be the norm...) - which explains, in part, why very little appears to get accomplished at KAPA Commission meetings! [Bringing the potential issue of a needed revision of the KAPA bylaws and/or quorum requirements - as was put forth on Commissioner Bob Smiths' Agenda and on the paper I turned in (copy below) - as well.]
------------------------------------------------------------
With that, I will end for now (There are more notes to cover) - except to state that I just received a call from U.C. Executive Michael Heins office - and that I will be following up on this issue from various (research / contacts / etc.) angles.
This is, primarily, a City of Kingston (also involving the other municipalities involved in KAPA) issue. However, it may be that Legislative changes [regarding, at the very least, this outdated and apparently - for KAPA purposes - law] might be called for.
Stay tuned...
There is also the issue as to:
1. Whether or not FOPA has the right (as they claim) to dictate duties to KAPA Commissioners and handle all KAPA monies...
2. The question as to who signed a contract between KAPA and FOPA? (Is there a signed contract? None of the current KAPA Commissioners have apparently even seen such a contract as of last night...) between KAPA and FOPA?
3. Is FOPA (which appears - in my opinion, and echoed by others - to evade any direct questions - and does not provide copies of contracts, receipts, etc. to KAPA...) helping or hurting the stated goals of KAPA?
4. Where does this go from here? [Input, suggestions, legal advisers, folks associated with other Public Access stations, etc. are more than welcome to comment!]
---------------------------------------------------------
Just for fun...
["Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows (Re-make)"; as submitted to You Tube by Snookiebutt
August 30, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVQMNM4dRAg]
Thank You,
NS
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Obama... Transparency in Goverment... You Tube... KAPA Meeting... FOPA... Document Turned In at Tonights Meeting
["Obama: Transparency Will Be Touchstone"; as submitted to You Tube by tpmtv on January 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72g7qmeP1dE]
Notes on tonight's Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) meeting are forthcoming. For tonight, I just want to post a copy (slightly modified for placement here) of the document that I provided to the KAPA Commissioners that were present - along with the Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members that were present. Copies of this, with an explanation, have also been emailed to the Kingston City Mayor and a number of other (relevant / City and County) individuals. Copies are pending for members of the Kingston City Common Council.
Kingston Area Public Access Commission Meeting Submission - June 23, 2009
Request for Documentation / Discussion / Possible Votes...
1. This is a request for specific Information regarding budget specifics for both Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) and Friends of Public Access (FOPA) - inclusive of an accounting of any and all monies received (with sources noted) within the last year (June 2008 - June 2009); all monies spent (inclusive of copies of receipts) within that same time span; all monies (revenue) securely and definitely pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; all monies tentatively pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; current account balance information (Where are these accounts located? Under what or who's name? Are two people required to sign on to these accounts?); and projected monetary needs (line by line specifics) for July 1, 2009 through July 1, 2010.
Associated:
A. What are the past and current mailing address for KAPA (If a P.O. Box is not currently active, could the KAPA Commission vote to establish one?]
B. What are the past and current mailing addresses for FOPA; when and where have FOPA meetings been held?; have FOPA meetings been open (Who has attended other than FOPA Board members?) to the public?]
2. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to formally change the Quorum requirements [defining a quorum as 1/2 of the officially confirmed KAPA Commission members that are present at any given Commission meeting + 1] --- and change the KAPA Bylaws to reflect this change?
3. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to dissolve the relationship (in all regards) that KAPA has with FOPA? [This would require that FOPA turn over any and all funds collected for KAPA to KAPA]
4. Could these matters [Around Documentation, Potential Quorum Vote and Potential Change in the KAPA Bylaws Vote] - in Particular - be handled in an pragmatic and expedient manner (all budgetary records and addresses, etc., should be on hand...)
5. Could KAPA (or an assistant) file for the Budget records, etc. that have been requested [if these are not submitted in a timely (2 Weeks?) manner] via the Freedom of Information Act --- and/or involve legal counsel (City of Kingston) - should such be necessary?
Concerned Citizen...
-----------------------------------------------------------
As I recently noted on Alderman Madsen's blog, the "hipbone is connected to the thighbone..."
It is also true, as the Feminists of the late 1960s and 1970s used to say - that "the personal is political."
------------------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
Notes on tonight's Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) meeting are forthcoming. For tonight, I just want to post a copy (slightly modified for placement here) of the document that I provided to the KAPA Commissioners that were present - along with the Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Members that were present. Copies of this, with an explanation, have also been emailed to the Kingston City Mayor and a number of other (relevant / City and County) individuals. Copies are pending for members of the Kingston City Common Council.
Kingston Area Public Access Commission Meeting Submission - June 23, 2009
Request for Documentation / Discussion / Possible Votes...
1. This is a request for specific Information regarding budget specifics for both Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) and Friends of Public Access (FOPA) - inclusive of an accounting of any and all monies received (with sources noted) within the last year (June 2008 - June 2009); all monies spent (inclusive of copies of receipts) within that same time span; all monies (revenue) securely and definitely pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; all monies tentatively pending for July 1, 2009 - July 1, 2010; current account balance information (Where are these accounts located? Under what or who's name? Are two people required to sign on to these accounts?); and projected monetary needs (line by line specifics) for July 1, 2009 through July 1, 2010.
Associated:
A. What are the past and current mailing address for KAPA (If a P.O. Box is not currently active, could the KAPA Commission vote to establish one?]
B. What are the past and current mailing addresses for FOPA; when and where have FOPA meetings been held?; have FOPA meetings been open (Who has attended other than FOPA Board members?) to the public?]
2. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to formally change the Quorum requirements [defining a quorum as 1/2 of the officially confirmed KAPA Commission members that are present at any given Commission meeting + 1] --- and change the KAPA Bylaws to reflect this change?
3. Discussion / Possible Vote: Would it be in the best interest of KAPA to dissolve the relationship (in all regards) that KAPA has with FOPA? [This would require that FOPA turn over any and all funds collected for KAPA to KAPA]
4. Could these matters [Around Documentation, Potential Quorum Vote and Potential Change in the KAPA Bylaws Vote] - in Particular - be handled in an pragmatic and expedient manner (all budgetary records and addresses, etc., should be on hand...)
5. Could KAPA (or an assistant) file for the Budget records, etc. that have been requested [if these are not submitted in a timely (2 Weeks?) manner] via the Freedom of Information Act --- and/or involve legal counsel (City of Kingston) - should such be necessary?
Concerned Citizen...
-----------------------------------------------------------
As I recently noted on Alderman Madsen's blog, the "hipbone is connected to the thighbone..."
It is also true, as the Feminists of the late 1960s and 1970s used to say - that "the personal is political."
------------------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
N.S.
President Obama.. Transparency.. Valerie Jarrett.. Open Government.. Roberts Rules of Order.. ByLaws.. Majority Voting.. More.. You Tube
The following videos (from You Tube) are for educational / informative purposes. Please remember that the KAPA Commission meeting (still on schedule to the best of my knowlege) is being held tonight at Kingston City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, at 7PM.
["10 Questions: Transparency"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on December 17, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_c0OtZ7PUw]
["Valerie Jarrett on Open Government"; as submitted to You Tube by OpenGov on May 20, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YflNzLEHRXg]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : How to Plan a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_d6rX2wWYY]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : Bylaws for a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2T7G0w9YbM]
["Majority Voting"; as submitted to You Tube by thedrvideo on February 16, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEdhjYWdOEo]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Crash Course 2009: Parliamentary Terms I: 3"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on February 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEo9IJlO940]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Deliberative Assembly and Its Rules I: 10"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on 2/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ko7tALwo6Y4]
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
["10 Questions: Transparency"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on December 17, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_c0OtZ7PUw]
["Valerie Jarrett on Open Government"; as submitted to You Tube by OpenGov on May 20, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YflNzLEHRXg]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : How to Plan a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_d6rX2wWYY]
["How to Form and Operate a Non-Profit Organization : Bylaws for a Non-Profit Organization"; as submitted to You Tube by expertvillage on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2T7G0w9YbM]
["Majority Voting"; as submitted to You Tube by thedrvideo on February 16, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEdhjYWdOEo]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Crash Course 2009: Parliamentary Terms I: 3"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on February 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEo9IJlO940]
["Roberts Rules of Order: Deliberative Assembly and Its Rules I: 10"; as submitted to You Tube by IMoveThat on 2/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ko7tALwo6Y4]
Respectfully submitted by,
NS
Monday, June 22, 2009
Kingston Area Public Access Television Meeting Agenda and Update... KAPA is Seeking Participants and Donors...
"The importance of public access in Florida..." is fundamentally the same (Please watch the following You Tube video!) as the importance of public access in Kingston, New York. Please help get it back in the green --- and back on the screen --- once AGAIN!
["Why TBCN is Important"; as submitted to You Tube by TampaBayCommunityNet on June 08, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWou04Ihf0]
In the Interest of Open Government and General Information --- So That Those Who Would Like To Attend / Get Involved (as Commissioners, Producers, Volunteers, Donors, Etc.) with Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Television (Channel 23) --- I am Submitting the Following Meeting Agenda [The meeting will be in Conference Room 1 at City Hall / 7PM Tomorrow Night). [Revised somewhat for inclusion here]
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting Agenda / 6/23/2009
1. Introductions and open speaking session (three minutes per person maximum)
2. KAPA Secretary Report:
3. KAPA Budget Report:
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have a written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting (This Thursday) and the next KAPA Commission Meeting.]
4. Update on Ellenbogen (sp?) building:
5. Volunteers / Suggestions / Appointments and/or Comments from:
A. City of Kingston
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen
KAPA Commissioner / Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
B. Town of Esopus
Mercedes Ross [Revised... OK?]
C. Town of Rosendale:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
D. Town of Kingston:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
E. Town of Hurley:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
F. Town of Ulster:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
G. Town of Marbletown:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions [Sorry, I missed this initially!]
9. Revision of Bylaws on the "Formalities of a Quorum" [See Attachment (Addendum)]
10. Reports from Friends of Public Access (FOPA)
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next KAPA Commission meeting and City of Kingston Safety and Cable Committee Meeting.]
B. FOPA Secretary Report
11. Clarification of Relationship between KAPA and FOPA...
12. Other Old Business?
13. New Business?
14. Closing Commentary / Suggestions (Open / Three Minute Per Person Maximum)
15. Next (Date / Time / Location) City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting:
Thursday, City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, 7PM
16. Next (Date / Time / Location) Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
17. Next (Date / Time / Location) Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
... XXX
--------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting [Attachment] Addendum
Revision of Bylaws --- 6/23/2009
"Formalities of Quorum"
Resolution #1-2009:
In the interest of common sense and logic the KAPA Commission defines (in its bylaws) a quorum as 1+ half of the appointed and existing (serving in a particular calender month) members of the KAPA Commission. This is to help in the reasonable course of decision-making and the administration of Public Access in a timely and efficient manner.
Be It Resolved:
A quorum for KAPA is to be half plus 1 of the appointed members of the Commission serving at that time.
For Example:
The City of Kingston needs 1 more appointee [Four Commissioners are currently serving / active]
The Town of Esopus has 1 appointee.
The Towns of Kingston, Hurley, Rosendale, Kingston and Marlboro currently have no active appointees.
Thus, there are currently Five active KAPA Commissioners --- and a quorum would equal half of that number (2) plus 1 (A total of Three)
"Quasi Government Commission" defined as:
1. Quasi: "as if, as it were... just as... in the sense of... in the manner of"
2. Government: "To administer... exercise authority over... direct or guide"
3. Commission: "Body of persons assigned to perform certain duties or tasks."
--------------------------------------------------------------
Respectfully posted (Please let me know if I have misspelled any names or made any other errors...) by,
NS
["Why TBCN is Important"; as submitted to You Tube by TampaBayCommunityNet on June 08, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWou04Ihf0]
In the Interest of Open Government and General Information --- So That Those Who Would Like To Attend / Get Involved (as Commissioners, Producers, Volunteers, Donors, Etc.) with Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Television (Channel 23) --- I am Submitting the Following Meeting Agenda [The meeting will be in Conference Room 1 at City Hall / 7PM Tomorrow Night). [Revised somewhat for inclusion here]
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting Agenda / 6/23/2009
1. Introductions and open speaking session (three minutes per person maximum)
2. KAPA Secretary Report:
3. KAPA Budget Report:
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have a written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting (This Thursday) and the next KAPA Commission Meeting.]
4. Update on Ellenbogen (sp?) building:
5. Volunteers / Suggestions / Appointments and/or Comments from:
A. City of Kingston
KAPA Commissioner Joe Marchetti
KAPA Commissioner Shelly Zimbler
KAPA Commissioner Geri Breen
KAPA Commissioner / Temporary Chairperson, Bob Smith
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
B. Town of Esopus
Mercedes Ross [Revised... OK?]
C. Town of Rosendale:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
D. Town of Kingston:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
E. Town of Hurley:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
F. Town of Ulster:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions
G. Town of Marbletown:
One Opening / Volunteers / Suggestions [Sorry, I missed this initially!]
9. Revision of Bylaws on the "Formalities of a Quorum" [See Attachment (Addendum)]
10. Reports from Friends of Public Access (FOPA)
A. Treasurer-Budget Report / Current Balance / Paid (Receipts) / Pending Expenditures
[Please have written budget report, receipts and copies of same available for the next KAPA Commission meeting and City of Kingston Safety and Cable Committee Meeting.]
B. FOPA Secretary Report
11. Clarification of Relationship between KAPA and FOPA...
12. Other Old Business?
13. New Business?
14. Closing Commentary / Suggestions (Open / Three Minute Per Person Maximum)
15. Next (Date / Time / Location) City of Kingston Public Safety / General Government / Cable Committee Meeting:
Thursday, City Hall, Conference Rm. 1, 7PM
16. Next (Date / Time / Location) Friends of Public Access (FOPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
17. Next (Date / Time / Location) Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Meeting:
___________________________________
... XXX
--------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA)Commission Meeting [Attachment] Addendum
Revision of Bylaws --- 6/23/2009
"Formalities of Quorum"
Resolution #1-2009:
In the interest of common sense and logic the KAPA Commission defines (in its bylaws) a quorum as 1+ half of the appointed and existing (serving in a particular calender month) members of the KAPA Commission. This is to help in the reasonable course of decision-making and the administration of Public Access in a timely and efficient manner.
Be It Resolved:
A quorum for KAPA is to be half plus 1 of the appointed members of the Commission serving at that time.
For Example:
The City of Kingston needs 1 more appointee [Four Commissioners are currently serving / active]
The Town of Esopus has 1 appointee.
The Towns of Kingston, Hurley, Rosendale, Kingston and Marlboro currently have no active appointees.
Thus, there are currently Five active KAPA Commissioners --- and a quorum would equal half of that number (2) plus 1 (A total of Three)
"Quasi Government Commission" defined as:
1. Quasi: "as if, as it were... just as... in the sense of... in the manner of"
2. Government: "To administer... exercise authority over... direct or guide"
3. Commission: "Body of persons assigned to perform certain duties or tasks."
--------------------------------------------------------------
Respectfully posted (Please let me know if I have misspelled any names or made any other errors...) by,
NS
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Freewrite... Cats in the Cradle... You Tube... Video from The White House Blog and You Tube... President Barack Obama... Responsible Fatherhood
Most of us are familiar with the following song - and life is so very, very busy and complex that one sometimes wonders - "how can I possibly be 'all things to all people?'"
The answer - the hard answer - is, of course, that we can't...
But making time for our children - in particular, during their young and vulnerable years - should (whenever humanly possible) be on the top of our priority list...
Personally - I think implementing a 30-hour work week (considered full-time with benefits) would be helpful in this regard - now that life is sooooooo complex - with so many professionals needing to stay on top of things (during their alleged "off" time) in the computer world (the news, Facebook, Twitter, blogs and such...) -
Which might mean (as a side benefit) more F/T (30 hr. work weeks) jobs for more people!
Whatever the case - parenting [there are also childcare (Affordable? Quality?) considerations; the need for fun and affordable family outlets, etc.) is a serious, serious, serious - and too often seriously undervalued (in regards to mothers and fathers) F/T job...
Which might sound a little "tacky" - put that way - to some...
But a wise man once said, "Love is Work"...
And mistakes, once made (I know something about this...) can-not always (no matter how hard one might try) be undone.
How many of us think... "I wish I knew then... what I know now?"
How can we encourage the next generation (this could be a personal and political question - regarding family-friendly legislation and policies...) to avoid the mistakes that we (Please remember the tale about "glass houses"...) have made?
["Harry Chapin - Cats in the cradle and silver spoon music video"; as submitted to You Tube by Rakin2008 on October 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un2EfjEJAOA]
From the White House Blog:
["The White House - Blog Post - Responsible Fatherhood"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVJXrJhzrcQ&feature=player_embedded]
Happy Fathers Day to All!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
The answer - the hard answer - is, of course, that we can't...
But making time for our children - in particular, during their young and vulnerable years - should (whenever humanly possible) be on the top of our priority list...
Personally - I think implementing a 30-hour work week (considered full-time with benefits) would be helpful in this regard - now that life is sooooooo complex - with so many professionals needing to stay on top of things (during their alleged "off" time) in the computer world (the news, Facebook, Twitter, blogs and such...) -
Which might mean (as a side benefit) more F/T (30 hr. work weeks) jobs for more people!
Whatever the case - parenting [there are also childcare (Affordable? Quality?) considerations; the need for fun and affordable family outlets, etc.) is a serious, serious, serious - and too often seriously undervalued (in regards to mothers and fathers) F/T job...
Which might sound a little "tacky" - put that way - to some...
But a wise man once said, "Love is Work"...
And mistakes, once made (I know something about this...) can-not always (no matter how hard one might try) be undone.
How many of us think... "I wish I knew then... what I know now?"
How can we encourage the next generation (this could be a personal and political question - regarding family-friendly legislation and policies...) to avoid the mistakes that we (Please remember the tale about "glass houses"...) have made?
["Harry Chapin - Cats in the cradle and silver spoon music video"; as submitted to You Tube by Rakin2008 on October 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un2EfjEJAOA]
From the White House Blog:
["The White House - Blog Post - Responsible Fatherhood"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVJXrJhzrcQ&feature=player_embedded]
Happy Fathers Day to All!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Lots to Think About... Financial Regulation and Reform... Health Care Reform... Maureen McGovern Song Karaoke... You Tube
["President Obama Announces Financial Regulation Reform"; as submitted to You Tube by the whitehouse on 6/17/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHpnfif8MfI]
["Faces of Health Care Reform: Cathy Miller"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on 6/17/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLZ61zKcVpE]
Although the following video is in Karaoke format - I found it nifty to read aloud, like a poem. Either way, if you feel adventurous, give it a try!
["KARAOKE - KARAOKE - Maureen McGovern - We Could Have It All"; as submitted to You Tube by KaraokeMusicChannel1; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3g4iidrOMNI]
September 01, 2007]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
["Faces of Health Care Reform: Cathy Miller"; as submitted to You Tube by BarackObamadotcom on 6/17/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLZ61zKcVpE]
Although the following video is in Karaoke format - I found it nifty to read aloud, like a poem. Either way, if you feel adventurous, give it a try!
["KARAOKE - KARAOKE - Maureen McGovern - We Could Have It All"; as submitted to You Tube by KaraokeMusicChannel1; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3g4iidrOMNI]
September 01, 2007]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Friday, June 19, 2009
Making a Difference... Bubba and the Tomato Plant...
The following photos (by NS) represent some people, events and organizations I was able to capture on film during the latter portion of "Make a Difference" Day in Mid-town Kingston. More information - particularly an interview with one amazing lady - is pending...
["Mid Town Make a Difference Day", Kingston, NY]
[Hodge Center / Hub (Plus!) for a Number of Community Events]
[Temporary KAPA Chairperson, Bob Smith (Bubba) Making "Friends" (?) with a Tomato Plant"]
["Family of Woodstock" ("Any Problem Under the Sun") Sign / "Live the Dream"]
["Family Services" / "Family Education Program"]
[Nutritional Information Booth]
[Music, Dancing, Community Education and Awareness...]
[Health Care (Other Groups were Also Present) Options!]
[Engaging 93-Year-Old Volunteer (More to Come!)]
[Awesome Dancing and Events! (Including a Bicycle Giveaway)]
[Music-Makers (Smile) Hard at Work!]
[Ah Yes, "Friends at Last!"]
Nifty Event!
Great day for the youth!
A big "Thank You" to all of the participants!
[Our tomato plants are now the residents of four local homes! Thank You!]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
["Mid Town Make a Difference Day", Kingston, NY]
[Hodge Center / Hub (Plus!) for a Number of Community Events]
[Temporary KAPA Chairperson, Bob Smith (Bubba) Making "Friends" (?) with a Tomato Plant"] 
["Family of Woodstock" ("Any Problem Under the Sun") Sign / "Live the Dream"] 
["Family Services" / "Family Education Program"]
[Nutritional Information Booth]
[Music, Dancing, Community Education and Awareness...]
[Health Care (Other Groups were Also Present) Options!]
[Engaging 93-Year-Old Volunteer (More to Come!)]
[Awesome Dancing and Events! (Including a Bicycle Giveaway)]
[Music-Makers (Smile) Hard at Work!]
[Ah Yes, "Friends at Last!"]Nifty Event!
Great day for the youth!
A big "Thank You" to all of the participants!
[Our tomato plants are now the residents of four local homes! Thank You!]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Monday, June 15, 2009
Photos of Hudson River Day... Kingston Point Beach... Childrens Playground
A Series of Photos (by NS) from June 15, 2009 [Kingston Point Beach and Playground; "Hudson River Day" Celebration]
[Kingston Point Beach / Boat Launch Area]
[Kingston Point Beach]
[Children's Slide / Kingston Point Beach (Park)]
[Fun on the Hudson]
[Giant Bug Toy Kingston Point Beach (Park)]
[Sand Piles (The children were having a blast!) / Beach Upkeep... / Beautiful Trees]
["Hudson River Day" / History on the Hudson (Near the Hudson River Maritime Museum)]
["Hudson River Day"; Crowds up on the Bridge...]
["Hudson River Day"; Bumper to Bumper in the Parking Lots...]
["Hudson River Day"; Boat Photo II]
[Kingston Point Beach Bonus; Nice!]
Hudson River Day was very nicely (what I saw of it) done - and the Kingston Point Beach and children's play area are looking very good!
Thank You,
NS
[Kingston Point Beach / Boat Launch Area]
[Kingston Point Beach]
[Children's Slide / Kingston Point Beach (Park)]
[Fun on the Hudson]
[Giant Bug Toy Kingston Point Beach (Park)]
[Sand Piles (The children were having a blast!) / Beach Upkeep... / Beautiful Trees]
["Hudson River Day" / History on the Hudson (Near the Hudson River Maritime Museum)]
["Hudson River Day"; Crowds up on the Bridge...]
["Hudson River Day"; Bumper to Bumper in the Parking Lots...]
["Hudson River Day"; Boat Photo II]
[Kingston Point Beach Bonus; Nice!]Hudson River Day was very nicely (what I saw of it) done - and the Kingston Point Beach and children's play area are looking very good!
Thank You,
NS
Sunday, June 14, 2009
My Health Care Reform Story Submission and Update... Predators and Victims... When is Enough is Enough is Too Much...
My story / commentary - as submitted through the Health Care Kickoff forum (http://www.healthreform.gov/communityreports/comments.html) and updated today. Please read (and think about) the updated items in the bold print...
"I share your three core principles, but ask that you not use Medicare as a "script" for a solution. The folks that I know, on Medicare, including myself, face a confusing number of options, paperwork that is mind boggling, sales pitches that sometimes seem to be less than honest and a number of other issues that come down to "too many hands in the bucket."
If you can't figure "it" out, you can't make good choices - and you can't get to the alleged "carrot" (this appears to be an invisible carrot) of quality, affordable - and ACCESSIBLE - care.
Having once been on Medicaid (not Family Health Plus or any of the other complicated "additives" that surround the once simple Medicaid program) - I found THAT to be a much more affordable and accessible system - and a single-payer system [Think simple!] for all (covering health, dental, vision, mental health, preventative and optional low-cost exercise programs...) would be great.
Other than that, I believe you should take a serious look at where most of the major abuses of the medical system (in terms of monies exploited, fraud, etc) - in terms of WHO the biggest (in terms of cost) "swindlers" are - and go after them! Most of the folks that I know - at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum - are truly just trying (most of them in legitimate ways) to survive.
The health care system is screwed up in a multitude of ways and I surely could tell you a story or two...
For example, how about taking a look at who is labeled crazy and who is labeled sane - who is making these determinations - and based on WHAT? [Lobbyists? Insurance Companies? Max Gross?]
Is it "crazy" for a woman to be afraid to venture out in this society? How do we make it safe for women and children in this society? Etc.
Health care is more than a "policy" (or two million and one policies with all kinds of small print...) after all.
Health care is about feeling safe. Feeling secure. Having the basic factors in place that will lead to positive self-esteem, self-care, self-respect and respect for others.
I could go on and on... But I will stop there...
Do I feel the health care system, as is (in my case, being currently on Medicare) has failed me? YES.
Do I support Obama's core principles for reform? YES.
Do I think single-payer (for all) health care and/or a socialized health care system is the probable answer? ABSOLUTELY.
My thoughts.
Thank you for all you do!
Update (6/09):
I would like to add that I am very upset about the health care situation (as I understand it) on Indian Reservations - and that I am, in fact, very disturbed about the fact (an observation) that convicted felons appear to get better health care than a lot of us that have never committed - nor been convicted of a serious crime!
I would like to refer folks (if appropriate) to one article I "just" (and I do mean "just") came across:
"PROMISES, PROMISES: Indian health care needs unmet"; Published - Jun 14 2009 09:39PM EDT; MARY CLARE JALONICK; Associated Press;
http://www.rr.com/home/home/article/rr/9000/8048944/PROMISES_PROMISES_Indian_health_care_needs_unmet/full/
I quote: "The U.S. has an obligation, based on a 1787 agreement between tribes and the government, to provide American Indians with free health care on reservations. But that promise has not been kept. About one-third more is spent per capita on health care for felons in federal prison, according to 2005 data from the health service."
When do we stop, in this country, giving more benefits (i.e., free health care, dental care, etc.) and privleges (free college education programs, etc.) to predators - whilst blaming, shaming and abandoning (via lack of services, etc) their victims?
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS / United States of America
[The above story link will be placed in the sidebar >>>]
Dedicated to My Grandchildren... Cyndi Lauper.. True Color.. Love, Beauty, Creativity and Diversity.. Cher.. This is a Different Kind of Love Song
["Cyndi Lauper - True Color (Lyrics)"; as submitted to You Tube by miuzk on 5/25/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS53zuf_X10]
[Beautiful Photo Passed on by my Mother]
[Flowers in Bloom at K.C. Hall; Photo by NS]
[Tree Down by the Kingston Plaza (Check out the Design at the Top!); Photo by NS]
["Different Kind of Love Song" (Cher); as submitted to You Tube by marinoxx93 on 8/4/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rIOd_MNGC0]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
[Beautiful Photo Passed on by my Mother]
[Flowers in Bloom at K.C. Hall; Photo by NS]
[Tree Down by the Kingston Plaza (Check out the Design at the Top!); Photo by NS]["Different Kind of Love Song" (Cher); as submitted to You Tube by marinoxx93 on 8/4/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rIOd_MNGC0]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Saturday, June 13, 2009
DARE Graduation at Chambers School... Proud Grandma... Congratulations... Thank You...
The photos from the Waterfront celebration aren't ready yet, so for tonight you get some photos from a proud grandmother! Dare I (smile) say more?
[A Proud (Sweet, Smart and Beautiful!) DARE Graduate!]
[Chambers School, KC School District; Photo by NS]
[DARE Graduation Ceremony at Chambers School I; Photo by NS]
[DARE Graduation Ceremony at Chambers School; Photo by NS]
Thank you for investing in our children and grandchildren! Thank you for investing in our future! Congratulations to all of the graduates! Keep the lessons learned close to your heart!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
[A Proud (Sweet, Smart and Beautiful!) DARE Graduate!]
[Chambers School, KC School District; Photo by NS]
[DARE Graduation Ceremony at Chambers School I; Photo by NS]
[DARE Graduation Ceremony at Chambers School; Photo by NS]Thank you for investing in our children and grandchildren! Thank you for investing in our future! Congratulations to all of the graduates! Keep the lessons learned close to your heart!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Friday, June 12, 2009
Passing This On... Gov Paterson Announces Transportation Projects... Congressional statements re "same"...
The following is longer than what I usually post, but I felt it was important to simply copy and paste this (with a minimum of editing for inclusion here) - rather than leave anything out:
"Dear New Yorker,
Governor Paterson announced the certification of an additional $94.9 million for highway and bridge improvements this afternoon. A copy of the press release is below...
- The Office of Governor Paterson
GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES $94.9 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDING FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS ACROSS THE STATE
New Projects to Enhance New York’s Highways and Bridges; Create More Than 2,200 Jobs
Governor David A. Paterson today announced the certification of an additional $94.9 million for highway and bridge improvements through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The funding will allow 43 new projects to move forward, creating an estimated 2,277 jobs across the State, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Today’s announcement brings the total number of ARRA-certified transportation projects to 217, for which the federal stimulus package will provide $617.8 million of the $777 million in total project costs.
"The ARRA funding provided for these projects will create safer roads, better bridges and a stronger infrastructure across the state," said Governor Paterson. "As we create our New Economy, it is imperative that businesses and residents have access to reliable, efficient transportation. I thank the President and the New York State Congressional Delegation, who fought to secure this critical funding. This summer New Yorkers will see crews at work in every region of New York, making lasting improvements to our State’s infrastructure.”
Some of the projects in today’s certification announcement include:
$11 million in ARRA funding for a project to resurface State roadways in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties.
Locations include:
State Route 9 in Halfmoon, Clifton Park and Malta between State Route 146 and Crescent Avenue
State Route 20 in Guilderland between State Route 146 and west of Johnston Road
State Route 155 in Colonie between Shaker High School and east of State Route 9
State Route 4 in North and East Greenbush between State Routes 43 and 151
State Route 50 in Ballston and Ballston Spa, between the southern and northern intersections with State Route 67
State Route 914D, Broadway, in Schenectady near Interstate 890 Exit 5.
Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2010.
$7.1 million in ARRA funding for a project to repair deficient bridge conditions in Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens and Richmond counties. The project will extend the service life of various bridges by performing concrete, steel, and joint repairs at locations exhibiting structural deterioration.
Locations Include:
In Bronx County, work will be done on the Bruckner Expressway, Cross Bronx Expressway and Major Deegan Expressway
In Kings County, work will be done on the Belt Parkway and Brooklyn - Queens Expressway
In New York County, work will be done on the FDR Drive and Harlem River Drive
In Queens County, work will be done on the Belt Parkway, Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Jackie Robinson Parkway, Long Island Expressway and Van Wyck Expressway
In Richmond County, work will be done on the Korean War Veterans Parkway and Staten Island Expressway.
The project will also include replacement of the Waterbury Avenue pedestrian bridge span over southbound Interstate 95.
The project is scheduled for completion in December 2011.
$6.5 million in ARRA funding for a project to resurface State Route 17 between the Chemung County Line and Sackett’s Creel in the Village of Waverly and towns of Barton and Nichols, Tioga County. This project will improve 40 miles of pavement, rehabilitate eight large culverts and upgrade guide railing. Work is expected to be completed in spring 2010.
$4.1 million in ARRA funding to replace the County Route 39 bridge over the Grasse River in the town of Louisville, St. Lawrence County. This project involves removing the historic stone arch bridge and building a new steel structure adjacent to the existing bridge. A plaque will document the history of the stone bridge and a retaining wall will be constructed using stones from the original bridge. Construction is expected to be completed in the fall of 2011.
$4 million in ARRA funding to rehabilitate the roadway pavement and make needed drainage improvements on:
County Route 67 between I-495
The Long Island Expressway
County Route 17 in the town of Islip, Suffolk County.
Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2010.
$3.6 million in ARRA funding to replace two bridges on State Route 90 in Cayuga County.
The first bridge is over Little Salmon Creek in the town of Genoa.
The second is over Paines Creek in the town of Ledyard.
The project will remove these bridges from the deficient bridge inventory. Construction is expected to be completed in 2011.
$1.8 million in ARRA funding for a project to repave a two-mile section of Townline Road in the towns of Pendleton and Wheatfield in Niagara County to address deteriorating pavement conditions. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2010
$1.4 million in ARRA funding to replace the bridge carrying Caretaker Road over the Walloomsac River in the town of Hoosick, Rensselaer County. This bridge, built in 1900, accesses a historic site, the Bennington Battlefield. Without this work, the bridge would be closed, causing inconvenience to motorists who would have to travel a lengthy detour. A bridge closure also would cause an increase in response times for local emergency service providers. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2009.
The economic recovery funds New York will receive for transportation projects must follow the same process required for distributing all federal transportation funds. The funds are allocated to projects that are selected by the 13 regional Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) across the State, which are comprised of local elected officials, local transit operators and New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) representatives. MPOs vote unanimously on projects for their Transportation Improvement Program, and the projects then are eligible to receive economic recovery funds.
Similarly, regions of New York State without MPOs are served by NYSDOT, which consults with local elected officials and selects projects for the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program. The department is working with local officials and the Governor’s Economic Recovery Cabinet to identify priority shovel-ready projects eligible for recovery funds. For more information, please visit: http://recovery.ny.gov/...
The following quotes were provided in support of the economic recovery infrastructure projects:
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer said: “This funding from the economic recovery package is much-needed and a wise investment for our State’s transportation infrastructure. These projects will help jumpstart the economy by creating and retaining jobs, and make critical upgrades to our decaying roads and bridges to make travel safer and easier. This is the best way to put federal dollars to work for New York’s economy because it will modernize infrastructure, create jobs and promote economic development.”
U.S. Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand said: “Today’s announcement by Governor Paterson that stimulus funds we passed in Congress will be used to upgrade New York’s roads and bridges is great news for the safety of our residents and for continued economic recovery in the region. More than just making needed upgrades to our State’s transportation infrastructure, the investment of these critical federal dollars will create hundreds of good paying jobs. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and our entire Congressional delegation to ensure that New York gets its fair share of federal dollars.”
NYSDOT Acting Commissioner Stanley Gee said: “The jobs retained and created by economic-recovery funding are crucial to strengthening New York State’s economy, and it has been Governor Paterson’s dedication to using these essential federal funds that has both produced and secured steady paychecks for many New Yorkers. The lifespan of Western New York’s transportation infrastructure will be extended and the safety of many highways and bridges enhanced through these important State and local projects.”
Congressman Michael Arcuri said: “This funding will be critical to towns and counties across Central New York as they continue to see recovery bill money for much needed upgrades and repairs to aging roads and bridges across the region. I join the Governor in offering my continued support to these projects and look forward to continued progress across Central New York thanks to the Recovery Bill.”
Congressman Eliot Engel said: “These roadside guardrails will make life safer for drivers and pedestrians throughout Rockland. This will be $1 million well spent, and I thank the Governor for acting to get federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects started. When we in Congress passed this legislation, this is what we wanted to happen – necessary projects quickly funded and work quickly started.”
Congressman Maurice Hinchey said: “These federal economic recovery funds will help improve public safety, enhance the quality of life for area residents, and promote economic growth. I am grateful that Governor Paterson has decided to allocate part of the State's share of economic recovery funding for these very worthwhile projects. In addition to paying for much-needed projects, these federal funds will spare local taxpayers from much of the cost.”
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney said: “I’m delighted that this $7.1 million federal investment will help repair New York City roads and bridges and create 170 jobs. This transportation funding will boost our city’s economy and benefit entire communities, not just drivers. I applaud Governor Paterson for his wise stewardship of ARRA funding, and I’m grateful to President Obama and my colleagues in the New York Congressional Delegation for helping deliver this much-needed funding for our city.”
Congressman Eric Massa said: “My primary focus is on job creation and tax relief. Because of the Recovery Package, we are now rebuilding our local roads and bridges, while at the same time putting people back to work. I voted for the Stimulus because it was projected to create and protect 7,500 jobs right here in New York’s 29th Congressional District and get our economy back on track.”
Congressman Michael E. McMahon said: “There isn’t a better place that the next phase of transportation funds from the economic recovery package could be directed than to revitalize the Korean War Veterans Parkway and southern part of the Staten Island Expressway. I applaud the Governor for directing this funding provided by the Federal government to Staten Island. Now, the persistent traffic congestion on the South Shore will be alleviated and the commute of all those who live on that side of the Island will be made easier. These funds, coupled with the earlier funds designated to rehabilitate the northern part of the Staten Island Expressway is the beginning of what will hopefully be a quicker and more pleasant commute for all Staten Islanders.”
Congressman John M. McHugh said: “Infrastructure funding is critically important in the North Country and I am very pleased that federal funding is being directed to a variety of transportation projects in the 23rd Congressional District. This funding provides the resources necessary for local communities to make much-needed improvements that will benefit local residents and businesses. I want to thank Governor Paterson for selecting these vitally needed initiatives for the North Country.”
Congressman Scott Murphy said: “This funding will provide critical improvements to our aging roads and bridges, putting shovels in the ground and people back to work while making our roads and bridges safer. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Paterson to implement the recovery funds to create jobs and turn our economy around.”
Congressman Jerrold Nadler said: “An investment in our infrastructure is an investment in our future. I’m overjoyed to support stimulus funding for our local transportation projects. In addition to the jobs that these ARRA funds will pay for, this money is desperately needed to help improve New York City’s roads and bridges. I know that the BQE and Belt Parkway in my district will be particularly well served by new maintenance and improvements funding.”
Congressman Paul Tonko said: “When we passed the Recovery Act in Congress we promised that the money would be put to work quickly to create jobs and repair our infrastructure – and that’s just what is happening. These newly certified projects will soon get underway, people will be put to work, and dollars will be spent in our local communities. In partnership with Governor Paterson and local officials, we are taking steps towards improving our roads and bridges and strengthening our economy.”
Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez said: “The State is moving quickly to put New Yorkers back to work using Economic Recovery funds. These infrastructure projects will make necessary repairs to many of our bridges, including the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, while at the same time, putting money in the pockets of working families.”
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said: “It is crucial that we invest in New York’s roads and bridges, critical components of our transportation infrastructure. These projects will not only improve transportation across the State, but will employ skilled workers and boost local economies. I commend President Obama and our Congressional Delegation for their dedication to providing the resources necessary to see these projects through.”
Senator Martin Malavé Dilan, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, said: “I want to thank Governor Paterson, our Congressional Delegation as well as the Department of Transportation for helping to secure these funds for New York State. The projects announced today will help to improve the safety and efficiency of our roads and bridges while putting hundreds of people to work. It is important that we begin these types of projects as soon as possible so we are able to carry New York State's infrastructure into the future.”
Assemblyman David Gantt, Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, said: “These projects are critical to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the roadways, railways, ports and aviation systems New Yorkers rely on. We must continue to invest in the construction, reconstruction and improvements to highways and bridges.”
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov); "Gov. Paterson Announces Transportation Projects"; The New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224.
Respectfully posted by,
NS
"Dear New Yorker,
Governor Paterson announced the certification of an additional $94.9 million for highway and bridge improvements this afternoon. A copy of the press release is below...
- The Office of Governor Paterson
GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES $94.9 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDING FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS ACROSS THE STATE
New Projects to Enhance New York’s Highways and Bridges; Create More Than 2,200 Jobs
Governor David A. Paterson today announced the certification of an additional $94.9 million for highway and bridge improvements through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The funding will allow 43 new projects to move forward, creating an estimated 2,277 jobs across the State, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Today’s announcement brings the total number of ARRA-certified transportation projects to 217, for which the federal stimulus package will provide $617.8 million of the $777 million in total project costs.
"The ARRA funding provided for these projects will create safer roads, better bridges and a stronger infrastructure across the state," said Governor Paterson. "As we create our New Economy, it is imperative that businesses and residents have access to reliable, efficient transportation. I thank the President and the New York State Congressional Delegation, who fought to secure this critical funding. This summer New Yorkers will see crews at work in every region of New York, making lasting improvements to our State’s infrastructure.”
Some of the projects in today’s certification announcement include:
$11 million in ARRA funding for a project to resurface State roadways in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties.
Locations include:
State Route 9 in Halfmoon, Clifton Park and Malta between State Route 146 and Crescent Avenue
State Route 20 in Guilderland between State Route 146 and west of Johnston Road
State Route 155 in Colonie between Shaker High School and east of State Route 9
State Route 4 in North and East Greenbush between State Routes 43 and 151
State Route 50 in Ballston and Ballston Spa, between the southern and northern intersections with State Route 67
State Route 914D, Broadway, in Schenectady near Interstate 890 Exit 5.
Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2010.
$7.1 million in ARRA funding for a project to repair deficient bridge conditions in Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens and Richmond counties. The project will extend the service life of various bridges by performing concrete, steel, and joint repairs at locations exhibiting structural deterioration.
Locations Include:
In Bronx County, work will be done on the Bruckner Expressway, Cross Bronx Expressway and Major Deegan Expressway
In Kings County, work will be done on the Belt Parkway and Brooklyn - Queens Expressway
In New York County, work will be done on the FDR Drive and Harlem River Drive
In Queens County, work will be done on the Belt Parkway, Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Jackie Robinson Parkway, Long Island Expressway and Van Wyck Expressway
In Richmond County, work will be done on the Korean War Veterans Parkway and Staten Island Expressway.
The project will also include replacement of the Waterbury Avenue pedestrian bridge span over southbound Interstate 95.
The project is scheduled for completion in December 2011.
$6.5 million in ARRA funding for a project to resurface State Route 17 between the Chemung County Line and Sackett’s Creel in the Village of Waverly and towns of Barton and Nichols, Tioga County. This project will improve 40 miles of pavement, rehabilitate eight large culverts and upgrade guide railing. Work is expected to be completed in spring 2010.
$4.1 million in ARRA funding to replace the County Route 39 bridge over the Grasse River in the town of Louisville, St. Lawrence County. This project involves removing the historic stone arch bridge and building a new steel structure adjacent to the existing bridge. A plaque will document the history of the stone bridge and a retaining wall will be constructed using stones from the original bridge. Construction is expected to be completed in the fall of 2011.
$4 million in ARRA funding to rehabilitate the roadway pavement and make needed drainage improvements on:
County Route 67 between I-495
The Long Island Expressway
County Route 17 in the town of Islip, Suffolk County.
Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2010.
$3.6 million in ARRA funding to replace two bridges on State Route 90 in Cayuga County.
The first bridge is over Little Salmon Creek in the town of Genoa.
The second is over Paines Creek in the town of Ledyard.
The project will remove these bridges from the deficient bridge inventory. Construction is expected to be completed in 2011.
$1.8 million in ARRA funding for a project to repave a two-mile section of Townline Road in the towns of Pendleton and Wheatfield in Niagara County to address deteriorating pavement conditions. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2010
$1.4 million in ARRA funding to replace the bridge carrying Caretaker Road over the Walloomsac River in the town of Hoosick, Rensselaer County. This bridge, built in 1900, accesses a historic site, the Bennington Battlefield. Without this work, the bridge would be closed, causing inconvenience to motorists who would have to travel a lengthy detour. A bridge closure also would cause an increase in response times for local emergency service providers. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2009.
The economic recovery funds New York will receive for transportation projects must follow the same process required for distributing all federal transportation funds. The funds are allocated to projects that are selected by the 13 regional Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) across the State, which are comprised of local elected officials, local transit operators and New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) representatives. MPOs vote unanimously on projects for their Transportation Improvement Program, and the projects then are eligible to receive economic recovery funds.
Similarly, regions of New York State without MPOs are served by NYSDOT, which consults with local elected officials and selects projects for the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program. The department is working with local officials and the Governor’s Economic Recovery Cabinet to identify priority shovel-ready projects eligible for recovery funds. For more information, please visit: http://recovery.ny.gov/...
The following quotes were provided in support of the economic recovery infrastructure projects:
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer said: “This funding from the economic recovery package is much-needed and a wise investment for our State’s transportation infrastructure. These projects will help jumpstart the economy by creating and retaining jobs, and make critical upgrades to our decaying roads and bridges to make travel safer and easier. This is the best way to put federal dollars to work for New York’s economy because it will modernize infrastructure, create jobs and promote economic development.”
U.S. Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand said: “Today’s announcement by Governor Paterson that stimulus funds we passed in Congress will be used to upgrade New York’s roads and bridges is great news for the safety of our residents and for continued economic recovery in the region. More than just making needed upgrades to our State’s transportation infrastructure, the investment of these critical federal dollars will create hundreds of good paying jobs. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and our entire Congressional delegation to ensure that New York gets its fair share of federal dollars.”
NYSDOT Acting Commissioner Stanley Gee said: “The jobs retained and created by economic-recovery funding are crucial to strengthening New York State’s economy, and it has been Governor Paterson’s dedication to using these essential federal funds that has both produced and secured steady paychecks for many New Yorkers. The lifespan of Western New York’s transportation infrastructure will be extended and the safety of many highways and bridges enhanced through these important State and local projects.”
Congressman Michael Arcuri said: “This funding will be critical to towns and counties across Central New York as they continue to see recovery bill money for much needed upgrades and repairs to aging roads and bridges across the region. I join the Governor in offering my continued support to these projects and look forward to continued progress across Central New York thanks to the Recovery Bill.”
Congressman Eliot Engel said: “These roadside guardrails will make life safer for drivers and pedestrians throughout Rockland. This will be $1 million well spent, and I thank the Governor for acting to get federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects started. When we in Congress passed this legislation, this is what we wanted to happen – necessary projects quickly funded and work quickly started.”
Congressman Maurice Hinchey said: “These federal economic recovery funds will help improve public safety, enhance the quality of life for area residents, and promote economic growth. I am grateful that Governor Paterson has decided to allocate part of the State's share of economic recovery funding for these very worthwhile projects. In addition to paying for much-needed projects, these federal funds will spare local taxpayers from much of the cost.”
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney said: “I’m delighted that this $7.1 million federal investment will help repair New York City roads and bridges and create 170 jobs. This transportation funding will boost our city’s economy and benefit entire communities, not just drivers. I applaud Governor Paterson for his wise stewardship of ARRA funding, and I’m grateful to President Obama and my colleagues in the New York Congressional Delegation for helping deliver this much-needed funding for our city.”
Congressman Eric Massa said: “My primary focus is on job creation and tax relief. Because of the Recovery Package, we are now rebuilding our local roads and bridges, while at the same time putting people back to work. I voted for the Stimulus because it was projected to create and protect 7,500 jobs right here in New York’s 29th Congressional District and get our economy back on track.”
Congressman Michael E. McMahon said: “There isn’t a better place that the next phase of transportation funds from the economic recovery package could be directed than to revitalize the Korean War Veterans Parkway and southern part of the Staten Island Expressway. I applaud the Governor for directing this funding provided by the Federal government to Staten Island. Now, the persistent traffic congestion on the South Shore will be alleviated and the commute of all those who live on that side of the Island will be made easier. These funds, coupled with the earlier funds designated to rehabilitate the northern part of the Staten Island Expressway is the beginning of what will hopefully be a quicker and more pleasant commute for all Staten Islanders.”
Congressman John M. McHugh said: “Infrastructure funding is critically important in the North Country and I am very pleased that federal funding is being directed to a variety of transportation projects in the 23rd Congressional District. This funding provides the resources necessary for local communities to make much-needed improvements that will benefit local residents and businesses. I want to thank Governor Paterson for selecting these vitally needed initiatives for the North Country.”
Congressman Scott Murphy said: “This funding will provide critical improvements to our aging roads and bridges, putting shovels in the ground and people back to work while making our roads and bridges safer. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Paterson to implement the recovery funds to create jobs and turn our economy around.”
Congressman Jerrold Nadler said: “An investment in our infrastructure is an investment in our future. I’m overjoyed to support stimulus funding for our local transportation projects. In addition to the jobs that these ARRA funds will pay for, this money is desperately needed to help improve New York City’s roads and bridges. I know that the BQE and Belt Parkway in my district will be particularly well served by new maintenance and improvements funding.”
Congressman Paul Tonko said: “When we passed the Recovery Act in Congress we promised that the money would be put to work quickly to create jobs and repair our infrastructure – and that’s just what is happening. These newly certified projects will soon get underway, people will be put to work, and dollars will be spent in our local communities. In partnership with Governor Paterson and local officials, we are taking steps towards improving our roads and bridges and strengthening our economy.”
Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez said: “The State is moving quickly to put New Yorkers back to work using Economic Recovery funds. These infrastructure projects will make necessary repairs to many of our bridges, including the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, while at the same time, putting money in the pockets of working families.”
Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said: “It is crucial that we invest in New York’s roads and bridges, critical components of our transportation infrastructure. These projects will not only improve transportation across the State, but will employ skilled workers and boost local economies. I commend President Obama and our Congressional Delegation for their dedication to providing the resources necessary to see these projects through.”
Senator Martin Malavé Dilan, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, said: “I want to thank Governor Paterson, our Congressional Delegation as well as the Department of Transportation for helping to secure these funds for New York State. The projects announced today will help to improve the safety and efficiency of our roads and bridges while putting hundreds of people to work. It is important that we begin these types of projects as soon as possible so we are able to carry New York State's infrastructure into the future.”
Assemblyman David Gantt, Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, said: “These projects are critical to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the roadways, railways, ports and aviation systems New Yorkers rely on. We must continue to invest in the construction, reconstruction and improvements to highways and bridges.”
From: News from the Governor's Office (news@ny.gov); "Gov. Paterson Announces Transportation Projects"; The New York State Executive Chamber, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224.
Respectfully posted by,
NS
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Rollin on the River... You Tube... Waterfront Events... Correction Associated with Previous Posting... Planting Idea for Next Year...
I picked the following video out of a host of You Tube videos featuring "Rollin' on the River" for a few different reasons:
1. I would like to honor Tina Turner (Always a WOW!) - as well! AND take the opportunity to honor a beautiful, compassionate, strong and inspirational "Tina" (LOVE YA KID!) in my own life!
2. The local "river" was doing a bit of "rolling" (and rocking) last night...; and
3. There were some interesting [One makes me growl, but you'll have to guess (lol) "who"...] attendees at this particular (check out the video) concert...
["Beyonce Honors Tina Turner"; as submitted to You Tube by pr1ncess2007 on 2/20/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXGFdLvahQQ]
My husband and I (with my camera in tow) went down to the waterfront last night to take in some of the historical (a recreation of) events taking place; after which, we took a trek over to Kingston Point beach - and returned (to the Roundout area) to spend part of the the evening at a local bar/restaurant that has Karaoke (Wed nights) and various other forms (other nights) of entertainment...
It was a great night (photos pending) overall! And I've got to say that I'm amazed how many people came out - on a somewhat gloomy (weather-wise) night - for all of these (boats coming in; bands playing; volleyball at the beach; ball-games at the field; loads of diners; some enthusiastic singers...) events...
Leading me to believe that the City of Kingston is a bit more "hopping" in some regards than I (previously) thought...
Lending some real credibility (in my eyes) to the idea that the Kingston Waterfront "could" really become a big (community wise, economic-engine wise) deal!
Thank you to all who contributed to last night's events! Thank you to those that are (obviously) taking time to seriously clean up the Kingston Point Beach (also crowded) and associated children's playground! And thank you to the gracious hosts at the Steel House - who really have (as do a bunch of other establishments in the Roundout area) a good thing going!
More (with photos) on this (The ships were awesome!) later!
-----------------------------------------------------
A ways back in the thread/positing list - when referring to a community garden idea - I discovered I made a big "oopsy"! I posted a correction there - but will do so here - as well.
"The community garden idea should say 'YMCA' (Ward 5) - not 'YWCA' (Uptown/Clinton Avenue)! My apologies!
Maybe that (lol) is why I didn't get any responses?
Perhaps next year?
The YMCA youth rec program participants might enjoy a project such as this - and there seems to be some on-site property that could (along with the general environment) use a little TLC!
It wouldn't even have to be a vegetable garden... The YMCA could order trees (real cheap) from the Arbor Day Foundation (I got ten baby trees for 10 dollars!) and use them as a teaching tool (?!?)
That sounds like a win-win-win-win [a little less mowing - a little more (not overly demanding) landscaping] - some learning and some fun for the young folks - to me!
-------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
1. I would like to honor Tina Turner (Always a WOW!) - as well! AND take the opportunity to honor a beautiful, compassionate, strong and inspirational "Tina" (LOVE YA KID!) in my own life!
2. The local "river" was doing a bit of "rolling" (and rocking) last night...; and
3. There were some interesting [One makes me growl, but you'll have to guess (lol) "who"...] attendees at this particular (check out the video) concert...
["Beyonce Honors Tina Turner"; as submitted to You Tube by pr1ncess2007 on 2/20/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXGFdLvahQQ]
My husband and I (with my camera in tow) went down to the waterfront last night to take in some of the historical (a recreation of) events taking place; after which, we took a trek over to Kingston Point beach - and returned (to the Roundout area) to spend part of the the evening at a local bar/restaurant that has Karaoke (Wed nights) and various other forms (other nights) of entertainment...
It was a great night (photos pending) overall! And I've got to say that I'm amazed how many people came out - on a somewhat gloomy (weather-wise) night - for all of these (boats coming in; bands playing; volleyball at the beach; ball-games at the field; loads of diners; some enthusiastic singers...) events...
Leading me to believe that the City of Kingston is a bit more "hopping" in some regards than I (previously) thought...
Lending some real credibility (in my eyes) to the idea that the Kingston Waterfront "could" really become a big (community wise, economic-engine wise) deal!
Thank you to all who contributed to last night's events! Thank you to those that are (obviously) taking time to seriously clean up the Kingston Point Beach (also crowded) and associated children's playground! And thank you to the gracious hosts at the Steel House - who really have (as do a bunch of other establishments in the Roundout area) a good thing going!
More (with photos) on this (The ships were awesome!) later!
-----------------------------------------------------
A ways back in the thread/positing list - when referring to a community garden idea - I discovered I made a big "oopsy"! I posted a correction there - but will do so here - as well.
"The community garden idea should say 'YMCA' (Ward 5) - not 'YWCA' (Uptown/Clinton Avenue)! My apologies!
Maybe that (lol) is why I didn't get any responses?
Perhaps next year?
The YMCA youth rec program participants might enjoy a project such as this - and there seems to be some on-site property that could (along with the general environment) use a little TLC!
It wouldn't even have to be a vegetable garden... The YMCA could order trees (real cheap) from the Arbor Day Foundation (I got ten baby trees for 10 dollars!) and use them as a teaching tool (?!?)
That sounds like a win-win-win-win [a little less mowing - a little more (not overly demanding) landscaping] - some learning and some fun for the young folks - to me!
-------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
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