"The War Is Making You Poor Act" Rep Alan Grayson... You Tube Video and Sources... "Womens Health Matters"... Link

["YouTube - 'Rep Alan Grayson Introduces the War Is Making You Poor Act'"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0_TtYQEDTo ]

"Rep. Alan Grayson The War Is Making You Poor Act"; http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rep-alan-grayson/the-war-is-making-you-poo_b_585343.html

"'h.r.5353 War Is Making You Poor Act' - U.S. Congress - OpenCongress"; http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-h5353/show ]

"The War Is Making You Poor Act"; http://readersupportednews.org/off-site-news-section/81-81/2020-the-war-is-making-you-poor-act ]

"Tell Your Member of Congress Support The War Is Making You Poor Act":  http://salsa.mydccc.org/o/30019/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=35

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

On Another "Front":

"Women's Health Matters Home Page"; http://womenshealthmattersny.org/

Post and Research Study Deleted... You Tube Video

"Trauma and Recovery: Send me a song by Celtic Woman";  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIXrDPou92o]

This video was previously associated with a research study I was going to undertake, but I got no responses - and I am moving the project idea from my "to do" list. It is a nice video (from You Tube) - anyhoot!

Safety Net Issue - Open Forum - When is Enough Enough... Opinion Piece

Opinion Piece:

I find the fact that the Ulster County (U.C.) Legislature voted down a change (a desired monetary burden shift from K-NY to the County of Ulster) in the way the Safty Net is funded - when it comes to the City of Kingston - is shocking (at best) and disgraceful (at worst). 

The inequity in the way the Safety Net (in regard to K-NY / UC-NY) is currently funded - is glaring - and how anyone [particularly our political representatives (A lot of U.C. Legislatures may be losing their positions soon, due to structural changes - so (listen up) - a position on the UC Legislature is bound to become much more competitive...!)] could "not" see "that" is beyond me.

So, now that the City of Kingston is reputedly going to sue (I'm not sure this is definite yet.) the County of Ulster --- regarding the funding of the Safety Net --- I say hurrah (!) - because it seems to me as if K-NY taxpayers have been getting fed the sludge (in many ways; this being just one...) at the bottom of  the sewage pipes (blocked, apparently, all over town, to boot!) for way too long.

1.  An inequity (again, these are my opinions...) in the way the Safety net is funded.

2.  A U.C. Department of Social Services that apparently doesn't even know the correct address of the people that it is providing services for...  [Another illegitimate price-tag thus far pushed off on K-NY taxpayers...]

3.  Property tax assessments (courtesty of GAR Associates) out of whack all over the place (as demonstrated by the number of Kingston taxpayers that sucessfully contested their property tax assessments last year, and won...)].

4.  Over 40% of K-NY properties (not-for-profits, religious and non) reputedly off (or partially off) the tax roles; and...

5.  Some questionable budgetary issues ["Sunshine" anyone?] in regard to some [my opinons; my opinions; my opinions...] of  the above [I'm specifically addressing #4]

How did the Safety Net issue get voted on so quickly - when most issues [from stop signs and street lights to bagging leaves and cats...] seem to take forever?  I thought the public was going to have a chance to submit [This (at the U.C. level...) certainly deserved an open forum!] some collective [Did I miss something?] imput (?!?)

Why wouldn't U.C. Executive Michael Hein (as reputedly suggested by the assistant K-NY Corporation Council) allow an open meeting - with the U.C. Department of Social Services Commissioner - in attendance?  Is this true?  [I would like to hear Executive Hein's response to that...]

Alderman Hayes Clement has reputedly suggested that the City of Kingston host an open forum on this issue [Kudos!] - and I, for one [I know I'm not alone on this...] would like to see this become a reality.

Surely the taxpayers in the City of Kingston have some rights? 

Or are they [K-NY taxpayers] just here [Things are seemingly very backwards of late...] to clean the parks - sweep the streets - and otherwise take over functions that are the City and / or County's [At least this is how it worked where I came from...] responsibility?

We aren't supposed to "hurt the feelings of" people that are receiving services...

Cool.

Not MY intent.

And probably NOT ["Red herring" anyone?] the intent of most concerned parties.

The thing is...

You cannot continue to chip away at a rock without that rock becoming a pile of pebbles and eventually --- DUST.

2 + 2 does not equal five.

And sooner or later the taxpayers [My "best guess..."] are going to say [ whether through the voting process; through relocation or some other means (?)] "NO MORE".

Sources:

"Kingston alderman wants public forum on welfare funding"; Paul Kirby; "Daily Freeman"; 5/23/2010; http://dailyfreeman.com/articles/2010/05/23/news/doc4bf8bb61c69b4035826766.txt

"kingston progressive 'ULSTER COUNTY SAFETY NET'":  http://kingstonprogressive.blogspot.com/2010/05/ulster-county-safety-net.html

"'Thinking twice Public Welfare Charges' Kingston Citizens":  http://kingstoncitizens.org/2010/05/22/thinking-twice-public-welfare-charges/

Previous posts (this blog) and community meetings.  For Example:  http://flingingtowardsthesun.blogspot.com/2009/12/mary-ann-parker-county-containment.html

"Stand" --- Rascal Flatts - You Tube Video

["Rascall Flatts - 'Stand' (with lyrics)"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13cgEA6TRLQ&feature=related ]

"Conspiracy of Silence..." John Decamp... "The Franklin Scandal"... Nick Bryant...

Simply giving the following [ADULTS ONLY / VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED / GRAPHIC VERBAL CONTENT] some exposure.

Do your own research.

Form your own opinions.

["Conspiracy of Silence 1of6 - Franklin Cover-Up"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDxXgG9ILQs ]

["Conspiracy of Silence 2of6 - Franklin Cover-Up"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBSSR9jeYgc&feature=related]

["Conspiracy of Silence 3of6 - Franklin Cover-Up"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejegE3huENc&feature=related]

Note: There are 3 more videos, from this source, in this series. These are available on You Tube.

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

["Nick Bryant interview 2/17/09 : The Franklin Scandal part1of4"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Cq1mtyja8Y&feature=related ]

["Nick Bryant interview 2/17/09 : The Franklin Scandal part2of4; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ruWnzGIh6c&feature=related ]

["Nick Bryant interview 2/17/09 : The Franklin Scandal part3of4"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFJ4FNrlbNg&feature=related ]

["Nick Bryant interview 2/17/09 : The Franklin Scandal part4of4"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wet_lPajHno&feature=related ]

Your thoughts on this?

"Campaign for Better Care" - Pass It On...

"Campaign for Better Care Feature Story"; http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cbc_banner&autologin=true&AddInterest=1681

Happy Anniversary... "It's All About Soul" Billy Joel You Tube Video

["It's All About Soul (Billy Joel) Music Video"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBxkHRukM6M]

What a Trip, eh?

Happy Anniversary!  I Love You! 

Me

KNY Neighborhood Watch Meeting... Interesting Links... Spring Photos... Summer Block Party?

A.  Just back from the KNY Neighborhood Watch meeting.  Impressed with the attendance - and with the fact that some of the KNY Aldermen [Jen Fuentes, Andi Turco-Levin, Hayes Clement and Tom Hoffay were (sorry if I missed anyone)] there. 

Wondering why the others weren't (?)  This is pretty [I think...] important stuff!

My PTSD issues - the degree of stress I am currently under - and my prior experience (not good) with Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) volunteerism - make me hesitant to jump into much of anything at this point.  But I am sooo grateful to the people that "are" jumping in --- and I'm staying as informed (in the meantime) as I can.

Right now the emphasis appears to be on forming and carrying out some neighborhood walks - with guidelines set at a minimum of four people and three active cell phones.

The first walk, however, will probably be much larger than that - and if I heard it right - will be on Thursday, May 27 at 7PM - starting out at G. Washington School.  [Please check in at the Watch site (there is a link in the sidebar) for more (general or specific) information.] 

If I understand it right, Watch walkers need to have their information on file - and they need to sign a liability waiver. 

Please contact the Watch, if interested --- for clarification!  They are also on Facebook at
"Facebook Kingston-NY-Neighborhood-Watch":  http://www.facebook.com/KingstonNeighborhoodWatch?ref=ts&v=wall

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

B.  A link for victims / survivors [Isn't this long overdue?] everwhere...

"'Supreme Court Rules 'Sexually Dangerous' Inmates Can Be Held Indefinitely'  NPR":  http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126883149&sc=nl&cc=ph-20100517

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

C.  My sincere apologies for the fact that I keep (sorry Jen) referring to pugs as pit bulls...  Duh!  How many times can I make that (a biggy) mistake!

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

D.  Another interesting link [This should all add up after a bit and help us taxpayers out a little, I hope...]]:

Kingston overbilled $64,000 for Safety Net Social Services":  http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/2010/May/18/King_overbill-18May10.html

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

E.  I asked Alderman Jen Fuentes about the possibility of a Summer Block party for Ward 5...  Ideas and feedback (I'd be happy to pass them on...) welcome!

Moms Rising... "Motherhood Manifesto..." Activism Opportunity...

["The Motherhood Manifesto";  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17x235VynTY;  http://www.momsrising.org/aboutmomsrising]

Some stats (received via email on May 11, 2010) from MomsRising.org.

United States of America (U.S.):

25% of families that have children under the age of six years "live in poverty."

9,000,000 [9 M] children have no health care coverage - and many more have insufficient health care coverage.

14,000,000 [14 M] children have no supervision after school is out.  Forty thousand [40,000] of the these children are Kindergartners [approximately 5 years old].

Mothers that are raising children on their own [single moms] make approximately "60 cents... 'to a man's dollar.'"

The above stat is slightly better ["73 cents..."] for mothers in the context of marital relationships.

Women that have no children make approximately "90 cents... 'to a man's dollar'".

The U.S. is one of the 20 "most competitive economies in the world" - but is the only country that "doesn't require employers to provide sick days."

According to a study at Harvard - out of "170 countries" - the U.S. is one [out of just four nations] that does not provide "any form of paid leave for new mothers."

For additional information, visit "About MomsRising":  http://www.momsrising.org/aboutmomsrising

Important Link for KNY Citizens

In case someone out there doesn't know about this site:

"Search CrimeReports.com":  http://www.crimereports.com/widget/widget.html?CRSearch=Kingston,NY

This May Not Be Honolulu... But It Seems We Might Have "Some" Things In Common... NPR Newscast... Check it Out

["Homeless, But Enjoying Hawaii On $3 A Day"; National Public Radio (NPR) Newscast; http://n.npr.org/NPRI/jN100368753_434452_434378_Z.htm ; Link Received From "NPR's Most E-Mailed Stories" (newsletters@n.npr.org) on Sun AM, 5/16/10]

Lawn Sale Update / Change... National Partnership for Women and Families... Campaign for Better Care... Links

Stock Photo

The lawn sale was pretty much a bust - and will only be on for a couple of hours [Noon-2PM] tomorrow.  It was however - GREAT - to meet and talk with Rebecca Martin.  Absolutely.  And spending time with Mom, my children and some of my grandchildren made it all worthwhile, as well.

Tomorrow only the plants will be out - so if you are interested in something else that I've listed here - please (if you choose to come) inquire.

Other than that, a You Tube video (sorry; about a year old) and a couple of pertinent links:

[ "National Partnership for Women & Families": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVkkPK0Kpgc ]

"National Partnership for Women and Families Because Actions Speak Louder Than Words":  http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/PageServer

"Campaign for Better Care":  http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cbc_index

Up to Date Note on UC Safety Net Issue... Important Link...

For some up-to-date information on the "Ulster County Safety Net" issue please visit the "Kingston Progressive" blog at:   http://kingstonprogressive.blogspot.com/2010/05/ulster-county-safety-net.html

This is an issue that I think City of Kingston taxpayers and other legitimate residents should really stay on top of. 

Just an opinion.  Thank you Mike.  Great job as per usual : )

Skateboarding Bull Dog... You Tube Video

["YouTube - Skateboarding Dog"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQzUsTFqtW0&feature=fvw ]

Happy Mothers Day...

Stock Photo

Happy Mothers Day! 

Treat yourself good...

Forgets all the could haves

Would haves

And shoulds

"You don't have to be perfect

Just 'good enough'"...

As a wise woman once told me

When the waters were rough

Take time for you too

Because that is a need...

Mothers are precious

Just like their seeds

And all will blossom

With enough love to go round

Just like fields of flowers

In the Spring.

NS

Informational Links and Activism Opportunities...

Photo by BF / Utilized with Permission

A number of interesting links that you may or may not know about:

"National Partnership For Women and Families 'Because Action Speaks Louder Than Words'":   http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/PageServer [Activism Opportunity / Petition on Site]

"Health Reform One Month Later" - "Barack Obama's MySpace Blog":  http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=184040237&blogID=533960213

"Campaign for Better Care": https://secure2.convio.net/npwf/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=389 [Activism Opportunity / Petition on Site]

"Take Action Support Faster FOIA":  http://ga3.org/campaign/fasterfoia_wyr?rk=JpvrTUEaOb3FE
[Activism Opportunity / Petition on Site]

"StopFraud.gov - Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force": 
http://www.stopfraud.gov/index.html

City of Kingston Common Council Meeting... "Summer Sizzler" V Security Cameras...

I attended the City of Kingston Common Council meeting tonight - and may do a brief report on this tomorrow- particularly regarding a letter my husband wrote (my rendition did not do it justice) in support of (as brought up by Alderman Shirley Whitlock) funding the "Summer Sizzler" (youth basketball program) v. utilizing more cameras in crime prevention efforts.

I do not necessarily support either of the above - as what I would really like to see in the City of Kingston are more undercover operations, foot patrols and bike patrols - along with the multitude of things of I have stated elsewhere on this blog...

Whatever the case, the Council voted not to amend - or attempt to amend the way these particular grant monies are to be utilized - and a suggestion (made by Alderman Ron Polacco) that $5,000 be transferred from the money the Barvadon / UPAC is to receive was shot down due to the grant's categorical restrictions.

"Victory... Criminal Investigation of Goldman Sachs..." You Tube Video

["YouTube - VICTORY! Criminal investigation of Goldman Sachs!"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRPLv7rxZnk ]

Moms Rising Video and Link - Thank You to Whoever Submitted My Name

A really cool video [follow the link] I received -  http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=tpy9aWK3Lz4PTnRj5hbijDY5MjY4NzU-&first=Nancy&last=Smith - which was probably submitted by MomsRising.org - a really cool activist organization that I belong to.

Check them out at -  "Moms Rising Breadmakers and Breadwinners Mom's a Star" - http://www.momsrising.org/  - and I think you can send a similar video (for Mother's Day) off (yes, I know it is a spoof!) to your "favorite" mom (s).

Thank you to whoever submitted my name and email address.
Equal rights.  Equal pay.  Respect.  Safety on the Streets.  Safety for our children and grandchildren.  These are all big issues!  And this is a great way [We have some major role models in this video!] to spread the word about MomsRising.org!

Opinion Piece - YMCA Park - Elizabeth Manor - Safety and Human Dignity - Problem Solving

Photo by BF / Utilized with Permission

There were more problems (a fight amongst a number of youths) near the YMCA park today - as was noted (with opinions presented) on the Ward 5 "Kingston Citizens" group --- and on the Kingston Neighborhood Watch "ClickFix" --- both of which (There are direct links to these organizations in the sidebar >>>) are wonderful tools for citizen awareness, communication and activism.

There are also more comments up on "ClickFix" about the situation (as reported) at Elizabeth Manor - which is relavent not only to Elizabeth Manor - but to other such "boarding houses".

A citizen is responsible for their property.

A parent is responsible (to a certain age) for their youth.

A not-for-profit and/or privately owned organization would logically (No?) be responsible for their property and what goes on (at the very least, in regard to children and youth that are not in the company of parents or caretakers...) on their property.

A landlord, though not to the same extent, is responsible (at least after strikes one, two and three..., one would think...) for their tenants.

If a youth is out of line, at home, in the neighborhood, at school, etc. - all sorts of interventions - from pins petitions to arrests - to the youth being sent to a youth facility - occur; sometimes inclusive of the arrest of enabling, neglectful and/or abusive parents...

Do we demand less around here from professionals?

From those who provide youth services, room and board to the needy, etc.?

It is not in anyone's best interest - not (as applies) the youths; not the residents; not the landlords; not the facility owners, operators or workers; not the neighbors; not nearby schoolyards and children; and certainly not the City of Kingston (as a whole) - to allow the situation at the YMCA and/or at Elizabeth Manor to continue "as is" [and as it has reputedly been for a long time.]

A lot of the problems with these sorts of places - locally - appears to be lack of professional oversight.

If youth are gathering on "private" (but "not for profit"?) property - one would think providing (via the facility) adult supervision would be a logical (for the youth's sake and the organizations sake) preventative and proactive stance.  [BTW, do truancy officers check out these parks?]

And - in regard to rooming houses and such?

Mentally ill chemically addicted (MICA) clients need to be (and deserve to be, for their own safety and chances for recovery...) placed in the appropriate setting.

Active alcoholics and addicts (at least those receiving Social Service money) should be required to go for treatment - housed apart from MICA clients and housed apart from those that have acquired a clean and sober history.

Newly recovering alcoholics and addicts need and deserve a sober [with professional oversight] housing environment.

And those with criminal histories "should" be receiving regular visits from (as applicable) their probation and/or parole agents on a regular basis, attending whatever programs they need, etc.

What is so difficult to understand about all of that? 

Did you ever see the show called (I think it was on "Saturday Night Live") "lowered expectations?"

This is about safety (for everyone concerned) --- and human dignity.

Why not do what needs (Why do we simply go 'round and 'round and 'round on the same issues?) to be done?

"Unmask the Fed" - Link - Petition

Photo by BF / Utilized with Permission

I found a whole nest of spiders today... 

Nasty.

Then I came across this, and found it pretty interesting:

"Unmask The Fed" -

Check out the following site  - and if you are so inclined - please sign the petition. 

http://salsa.mydccc.org/o/30019/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=26

Kingston Area Public Access... Thank You Mercedez (sp?) Ross

I heard Phil Cosme read a resignation letter from Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) Chairperson Mercedez (sp?) Ross on his KAPA show the other night - and I want to give M a shout out for no doubt working her A off - most likely investing a whole lot of time and even some of her own money - only to find out - in the end [I hope she corrects me if I'm wrong...] - that there were were and are too many walls [talk about "doublebinds") in place for any real progress (re KAPA) to occur - and that all she got for her efforts was megastress....

Which is exactly what happened (along with some other issues and unresolved questions...) when my husband (who ended up resigning as well) was the Chairperson of KAPA.

M - if you read this - I remember your enthusiasm when you came onto the KAPA "team" - and I know some additional progress WAS (against tremendous odds) made.

Thank you for all you did and tried to do.

Some of us know what a nightmare it "can" (not all the time, but organizationally...) it can be.

If you want to share here some of what you faced as KAPA Chair, you have at least four sympathetic ears here...

Peace and Best Wishes!

N

Passing on [Updated] a Thought Provoking Email About the Government / Taxation.. Sales Tax Idea.. Kudos to R. Cahill Jr.. Springsteen.. "This Land Is..." More

["YouTube - Bruce Springsteen THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND";

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yuc4BI5NWU&playnext_from=TL&videos=itne0W2_Fm4&feature=rec-LGOUT-real_rn-1r-16-HM ]

I'm certainly not aligned with the "Tea Party" folks; but my husband received this [modified for placement here] in his email today... and it surely does contain some "food for thought." 

Is all of this (or the orignal source cited) 100% legit? 

I don't know - so hold it "loosely" - do your own research (if you so choose)  - and form your own opinions...

How did we get where we are? 

What are potential peaceful solutions? 

Why are New York State taxes so very, very high? 

Would one tax - a higher sales tax perhaps [applicable to all non-food items] - equally applicable to all people, organizations, etc [even not-for-profits and religious not-for profits] be more equitable, sensible and FAIR than what we currently have going on?

It [the SINGLE sales tax idea] would certainly cut down on paperwork, red tape, governmental and institutional paperwork, mailings, personel costs, etc. - wouldn't it?

Just my thoughts.

Read on.

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

"Subject: worthwhile read about congress from A retired Orlando Sentinel reporter...

'What the heck happened -

545 people vs 300 million people...'

Charlie Reese, a retired reporter for the Orlando Sentinal has hit the nail directly on the head, defining clearly who it is that in the final analysis must assume responsibility for the judgements made that impact each one of us every day.

It's a short but good read. Worth the time. Worth remembering!

545 vs. 300,000,000

EVERY CITIZEN NEEDS TO READ THIS AND THINK ABOUT WHAT THIS JOURNALIST HAS scriptED IN THIS MESSAGE. READ IT AND THEN REALLY THINK ABOUT

OUR CURRENT POLITICAL DEBACLE.

Charley Reese has been a journalist for 49 years.

'545 PEOPLE--By Charlie Reese

Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them...

Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?

Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?

You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.

You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.

You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.

You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.

You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.

One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.

I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.

I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.

Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.

What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits..... The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.

The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.

It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.

If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.

If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red ..

If the Army & Marines are in IRAQ , it's because they want them in IRAQ

If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way.

There are no insoluble government problems.

Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.

Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.

They, and they alone, have the power..

They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses.

Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees...

We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!'

Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.

What you do with this article now that you have read it is up to you...

Be sure to read all the way to the end:

Tax his land,
Tax his bed,
Tax the table,
At which he's fed.

Tax his tractor,
Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes
Are the rule.

Tax his work,
Tax his pay,
He works for peanuts
Anyway!

Tax his cow,
Tax his goat,
Tax his pants,
Tax his coat.

Tax his ties,
Tax his shirt,
Tax his work,
Tax his dirt.

Tax his tobacco,
Tax his drink,
Tax him if he
Tries to think..

Tax his cigars,
Tax his beers,
If he cries
Tax his tears.

Tax his car,
Tax his gas,
Find other ways
To tax his ass.

Tax all he has
Then let him know
That you won't be done
Till he has no dough.

When he screams and hollers;
Then tax him some more,
Tax him till
He's good and sore.

Then tax his coffin,
Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in
Which he's laid...

Put these words
Upon his tomb,
Taxes drove me
to my doom...'

When he's gone,
Do not relax,
Its time to apply
The inheritance tax..

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax

Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Excise Taxes
Federal Income Tax

Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax

Gasoline Tax (currently 44.75 cents per gallon)
Gross Receipts Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax

Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes

Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Personal Property Tax
Property Tax

Real Estate Tax
Service Charge Tax
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Tax

Recreational Vehicle Tax
Sales Tax
School Tax
State Income Tax

State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service FeeTax
Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Taxes

Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Recurring and Nonrecurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax

Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax

Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax

STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY? Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, & our nation was the most prosperous in the world. We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.

What in the hell happened?...'"

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Any thoughts on this? 

Clarifications? 

Corrections? 

Additions?

Thoughts on my SINGLE sales tax idea?

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Postscript: 

1.  I think it would be important to know when (?) this was originally written - which I don't.

2.  When I mention an across the board sales tax v the current taxation system - I certainly see some items that I believe should be taken off that list as well [In fact, I think this sales tax should only be applied to big ticket luxury items...]

3.  In honor of my oldest brother who has said that he is going to be cremated and that there will be no viewing or funeral associated - because of the associated costs (including taxes...) - I certainly think all of THAT deserves a serious looksee...  [Yes bro, I do think it is the ultimate indignity to be charged (even post mortem?  after working your A off and paying taxes all your life...) top dollar (and/or for your children to be charged top dollar) in order to have a decent funeral, viewing and burial...)]
  
4  I'm sure more thoughts will come (Where is everyone?  I KNOW I have readers....!).  This issue is (collectively) very complex but it could potentially (I think) be very simple...

I don't think the answer is voting everyone out of office [round and round we go...] as is stated  up above - it is more about communicating and problem solving - in tandem with the above [citizen activism / taking US seriously] - NOW.

[Oh yeah --- sales tax idea aside --- I heard Richard Cahill Jr. (with whom I disagree on a number of issues...) state a brilliant (in my opinion) idea on his Kingston Area Public Access show the other night!  That is (This is not a direct quote /I'm relying on my shaky memory...) to tax any business or corporation that takes jobs out of the U.S. (all too often exploiting workers in other countries) to the MAX and give tax BREAKS to any business or corporation that does its business  (all manufacturing plants, jobs, etc.)  exclusively within U.S. boundries.]

Kudos Rich.  I certainly LIKE that one!

Historical Landmark List.. Kings Inn... TransArt... Kirkland... Questions... Links... Pondering...

Photo by BF / Utilized with Permission

If anyone else is as befuddled as I am about some of the places that are reputedly on the Historical Landmark list [i.e., the Kings Inn (?) and the building that is to house the TransArt center] here are some links that I admittedly haven't had a chance to take a close look at yet...

There has been a dialogue on the Ward 5 site about the TransArt project for those that are interested; and although my perspective might not be popular, I do think I pose some valid questions --- and I do appreciate the feedback I've gotten thus far!

I'm just a citizen / homeowner / taxpayer... nothing more and nothing less...  but I do believe in asking some tough questions now and then...  particularly with the financial situation [City, County, State, Country...] being what it is.

I once went on a retreat where one of the repeated slogans was "if nothing changes, nothing changes..."

Applicable here?

Whatever the case, here are the links:

"National Historic Landmark - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia": 
http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Historic_Landmarks

"National Register of Historical Places": 
http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/

National Register of Historical Places - NEW YORK (NY), Ulster County:
http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/ny/Ulster/state.html

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Postscript:  I haven't identified either the Kings Inn or the TransArt building project on this list [I could be missing these...  Is there another list?] --- But I did find the following interesting, and I'm wondering how up-to-date and accurate the listings are (?):

Copied and pasted from last site noted above: 

"Kirkland Hotel (added 2002 - Building - #02001323)

2 Main St., Kingston

Historic Significance: Architecture/Engineering

Architectural Style: Italianate

Area of Significance: Architecture

Period of Significance: 1875-1899

Owner: Private

Historic Function: Domestic

Historic Sub-function: Hotel

Current Function: Vacant/Not In Use"

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Hmmmmmm...

Who exactly is the "private" owner of the Kirkland?

Is the Kirkland currently (this is not what I've heard) "Vacant/Not in Use" (?)

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Chips'NDips Entertainment... Silly Stuff... Survival... Earth Day Video Pick... Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" [Wow]... You Tube... Freewrite...

I snagged some of these Chips'NDips photos [from 2009 and 2010 events] from one of my daughters sites.  She refers to me as her "cute but crazy" mom...

Which I think "might" be a compliment... but I'm not sure.

There is nothing booked for Chips...  and business has NOT been good. 

But we sure have (as a family) had some fun with it!

Now I'm planting rose bushes and trees and shrubs and flowers and herbs and lord only knows what else - like a maniac...

But I AM surviving some difficult times. 

["Michael Jackson - 'Earth song'"; as submitted to You Tube by YourMusicAndLyrics on March 4, 2008;  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gJcNBKiyMI ]

And that IS what matters... 

Right?

Great work at the YM folks (community volunteers)!  I'm planting like crazy [trying to keep up with deliveries] in my own back yard - to the point of emotional and physical exhaustion [I'm NOT kidding...] or I would come over to help. 

Extremes.  That's me.  Someday maybe I'll level out some and be [Is it really a worthy goal?] "normal"...

One can hope.

Truth, love, peace, equality and humane justice!

ME 

Congressman Maurice Hinchey at SUNY New Paltz "We the People..." --- and at the Recent UC Chamber of Commerce Event - You Tube Videos - Personal Opinions

The following two videos - accessed from You Tube - are not the videos I took of this event - and these videos [I'm just posting videos 1 and 3 from this source] are not titled in the manner I would have titled them! 

How Congressman Hincheys speech at SUNY could be construed as against "Freedom of Speech" is beyond me.... 

But everyone is allowed their perspective.

"Freedom of Speech" - in my opinion - is meant for citizens.

Not businesses, not media conglamorates, not not-for-profits, not religious bodies, not hate groups, not any other special interest grounps (such as unions) --- and certainly not for (many of these are multinational... an additional concern!) corporations.

I might return to this topic later [My perspective and some pertinent links are put forth in an entry down below] - but for now I'm just going to post the videos - which are open to one's own value judgements / opinions.

I personally feel that Conressman Hinchey has been and remains a strong advocate for the people.

["Hinchey against free speech Part 1"; "Gardiners Right"; You Tube; 4/19/2010; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYNsMFBXmAw ]

["Hinchey against free speech 3"; "Gardeners Right"; You Tube; 4/19/2010; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRFH-9lyBX4&feature=related ]

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This video was also accessed from You Tube --- and features Congressman Hinchey at a recent [April 2010] meeting of the Chamber of Commerce:

["Congressman Maurice Hinchey"; paulrakov; You Tube; 4/20/2010; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Trgq1psV5Dc ]

Please note that there are a number of links related to these topics in an entry down below.  Ignorance, as it has been said, is the worst type of poverty...

NS

Child Abuse Awareness Month... KAPA... More... Congressman Hinchey / "We the People..." at SUNY in Post Below... You Tube Videos

This is not only sexual assault awareness month, as noted in a video ("Take Back the Night") posted below --- it is also Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Thus, I wanted to post the following video:

["YouTube - Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect"; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LlYZ8_GtrM&feature=related]

Other than that, I wanted to state that the shows I saw tonight (only a few) on Kingston Area Public Access (KAPA) were impressive.  Discussions around the Safety Net issue (which is finally being investigated...); the proliferation of Not-For-Profits in the City of Kingston [over 40% of properties are reputedly (I've personally checked into this) off the tax rolls; and the proliferation of sex offenders in the City of Kingston [some in residence, as noted on the map accessible on the web ( put a check in the sex offender box at http://www.crimereports.com/widget/widget.html?CRSearch=Kingston,NY ); some reputedly in the UC Jail and/or the old Community Corrections Program facility) were particularly interesting.

These are issues that have been brought up time and time again - sometimes by one or two people [generally by MaryAnne Parker (Safety Net Issue / Child Safety Issue / other pertinent issues...) and myself (Not for Profit Issue / Child Safety / Safety Net Issue / "Culture of Poverty" (Oscar Lewis; 1966) Issue --- and sometimes (when the "dirt" hits the fan...) in larger bodies of protest --- and it is great to see these issues being taken more seriously by the "powers that be" / KAPA show producers / callers / and various [a more collective voice on all of this would be good....] City of Kingston citizens.

I also came across a video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRu8nvHMbSwon (You Tube / not able to be embedded here) --- which I found (in regard to Child Abuse Awareness Month) impressive:

I have to state (These are opinions, folks!) again [This has been stated, recently to my Alderman; and previously, in full or in part, at City Council meetings...] --- that I think the City of Kingston [in association with agencies such as the YWCA and the UC Crime Victims Assistance Program (excellent programs that should cover a wider spectrum...) should be more active in the prevention / awareness / treatment resource realm --- in regard to child abuse; sexual assault; domestic violence; gang activity; and (these amongst other things) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Those little wind catchers [check out the video / ignore the pop ups...] say a lot!

Congressman Maurice Hinchey at SUNY New Paltz... Hudson Valley Progressive Coalition... "We the People"... Info... Links... More

How come I'm not finding any coverage (yet) of Congressman Hinchey's appearance / address at  SUNY  New Paltz yesterday?  Congressman Hinchey was among a panel of experts that included John Bonifaz, the Legal Director of Voter Action and the Director of Free Speech for People; Margery F. Baker, Vice President for the American Way; and Joan D. Mandel, Ph.D. the Executive Director of Democracy Matters...

All were present to speak on a very critical (in my opinion) topic:  "We the People:  A Forum to Defend Democracy" --- with a focus on what "we" can do to fight the Supreme Court's ruling in "Citizens United v. FEC" [For more information on this please check out wakingplanet.blogspot.com and the other sources I've noted below]

The sponsors of this well-attended forum included the Hudson Valley Progressive Coalition, SUNY New Paltz, the Ulster County Move On Council, the Ulster County Democratic Committee; and Democracy Matters.  Some other groups associated with Hudson Valley Progressives, many of whom had representatives present, include:  New Paltz Women In Black; Hudson Valley for Obama; People for the American Way; New Paltz and Vicinity for Obama; Network of Spiritual Progressives; Arts for Peace; Peace & Social Progress Now; NAACP of Kingston; Hudson Valley Single Payer; Orange for Obama; and Dutchess for Obama.

Other notables were undoubtable captured on the videos I took - but the processing of "same" will take some time...

What can "we" do?

1)  Support the Fair Elections Now Act ("H.R. 1826" and "S752") [This act "provides voluntary public financing for congressional races so that candidates are beholden only to voters not corporations or special interests."]

2) Support a "Constitutional Amendment" [Congressman Hinchey is co-sponsoring "HJRes74"] to "undo the SCOTUS ruling."

3) Thank Congressman Hinchey and Senator Gillibrand for co-sponsoring "The Fair Elections Now Act."

4) Encourage Senator Schumer [202-224-3121] to support these Acts ("HJRes74"; "H.R. 1826" and "S752") as well!

5) Support the "Shareholders Protection Act" ("H.R. 4790" / House...); and... 

6) Let all of your members of Congress know that the citizens of this nation need a strong and consistant "Consumer Financial Protection Agency."

For additonal information (the forum and various organizational flyers are the source of the information I'm presenting here) --- please check out:

http://www.wakingplanet.blogspot.com/
http://www.freespeechforpeople.org/
http://www.movetoamend.org/
http://www.pfaw.org/
http://www.democracymatters.org/
http://www.hudsonvalleyprogressives.org/
http://www.artsforpeace.net/
http://www.voteraction.org/
http://www.citizen.org/
http://www.corporatepolicy.org/
http://www.amiba.net/

In, addition, if you are so inclined...

1.  Sign the petiions (others might be available, as well) at:

http://www.movetoamend.org/
http://www.freespeechforpeople.org/
http://pfaw.org/

2.  Contact your elected officials to encourage thier support of "H.R. 1826", "S.752"; "HJRes74" and [in the House...} "H.R. 4790;" and

3)  Stay tuned for some videos of the event.  [These will be posted if at all (I'm still learning) possible!]

If any errors have been made here --- or any sponsoring / involved organizations have been left out --- please let me know and corrections will be made!

Ward 4 and 5 Issues - Ward 4 Everette Hodge Exhibit - Planting Posies - Chips'NDips - Yousa...

Burned Out House In Ward 5 / Prior to Christmas 2009

Time [April 2010] to Do Something About This?

Photo 1:  Part of an Exhibit at the Everette Hodge Center Celebrating Black History Month

[I took these before vacation - sorry for the delay]

Does the "Dream" live on?

Ward 4 or Ward 5 Issue?  Time for a Solution?

Rumor has it that this road [which runs in front of the burnt out building in the first photo] may be "taken out".

True or False? 

Good idea or bad? 

Necessary?

Sunflowers

Just Plain Cute!

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This place is hopping with citizen activism of late...  but there is a lot more work to be done.

I'm overwhelmed...  but still doing what I can where I can when I can...

Any feedback on the Above?

Don't forget to check out the Chips'NDips Entertainment Site as well.  Some of the plants and such should be blooming by mid-May --- and many (I hope) in time for the Citywide Lawn Sale on June 12th!

Kingston Neighborhood Watch Meeting

I just wanted to pop in to say that the Kingston Neighborhood Watch meeting appeared to be a huge success - and that a whole bunch of people are talking about it in a positive manner!

I didn't take any photos or videos - as I wanted to pay attention - to the presentation - in full.

Really impressive!

Thank you.