Jaundiced Alderman refuses to apologize to exonerated Mayor

Alderman Richard Cahill refused to apologize to Mayor Jim Sottile after calling for his resignation alleging Sottile was guilty of Official Misconduct even though District Attorney Don Williams has stated that the Mayor's alleged actions of giving his son extra time do NOT warrant any criminal wrong doing.

Alderman Cahill your comments are outrages and over the top extreme, even the union members who have alleged Sottile broke union rules do not feel he should resign, you owe Mayor Sottile a public apology.

Final Thought : An Open Letter To Alderman Cahill

Dear Mr. Cahill.

Maybe Mr. Alderman it is you who should resign? I am not calling for your resignation but am simply asking that you think about the possibility of stepping down. You clearly have a vendetta against the Mayor and the Democrats that is making it hard to serve the people you were elected by. You have stated that your number 1 goal is the defeat of Jim Sottile more important then serving your constituents. What kind of message is that? Don't respond to this yet take a week or so and think it over, get your priorities in order... Do you want to be mayor? Do you want to slay the dems every week on TV and in the paper ? Or do you want to serve the residents of your ward that put their trust in you. Please do not try to further your political career by short handing the Ward 6 residents that elected you. You can't have it both ways either you are dedicated to your Ward or you are not. An Alderman is defined in Webster's dictionary as a member of a city legislative body governing a specific district, not Rich Cahill's stepping stone to mayor. Please take these thoughts into consideration. Thank you.

Your friend,

Jeremy Blaber

Mayor exonerated, D.A. Williams says no crime was committed

The Ulster County District Attorney's Office will not launch a criminal investigation against Kingston Mayor James Sottile over the mayor giving extra work to a summer crew that included his son. District Attorney Don Williams said yesterday Mayor Jim Sottile committed NO crime and that Alderman Lenny Walker's allegations were NOT creditable and did not warrant a criminal probe. You think? I could of told you that. I thank Don Williams for looking at the matter and making the right decision. Alderman Walker is simply on a witch hunt and it back fired on him now all the people in the City of Kingston know with out a shadow of a doubt Mayor Sottile broke no law. Thanks Lenny!!!!!!!

Mayor strikes back over mendacious charges by union boss and alderman

Mayor James Sottile struck back at accusations of favoritism and breaking contract rules by granting extra work to his son, a city employee.

Bart Robbins president of the Civil Service Employees Association and Alderman Lenny Walker have led a personal attack on Sottile through his son claiming that Jamie was granted 160 hours of extra work this summer that should of went to union employees, Sottile corrected Robins saying Jamie Sottile worked 250 hours but was only paid for 160 because he donated the other 90 hours to the city. While Sottile acknowledges seasonal workers were not allowed overtime he said his son was just given extra hours to work on the docks and lighthouse in which regular city workers do not generally do.

Alderman Walker has called for Sottile's resignation saying Sottile clearly violated a contract for the benefit of his son, and he called the mayor's actions "unethical." "He breached the contract, and that is totally wrong," Walker said. "It all comes down to the contract, and he violated it (to favor) his son. You cannot do what you want to do and have disregard for the city workers and city taxpayers."

THE FACTS:

- Jamie Sottile was hired in 1998 by Late Mayor T.R. Gallo

- Mayor Sottile has a record of being fair to all employees and would never give special treatment to anyone

- Jamie Sottile worked 250 hours in EXTRA TIME not overtime performing tasks that are generally NOT given to city union employees for over time

- Jamie Sottile was only paid for 160 extra hours of work, he donated 90 hours to the City of Kingston, the city saved 900 dollars as a result of his generosity

- Lenny Walker has announced on several occasions he is running for mayor and has been a frequent critic of the chief executive that he will most likely primary next year, in light of this on issues involving the mayor his words hold NO water and should be dismissed.

-Bart Robins is simply looking for a handout for work he has not done and is trying to exploit the situation to burglarize the tax-payers if anyone should resign he should as union president as he is making the workers he represent look bad

My take, I have thought long and hard over this and find Sottile to be the victim of a personal and political attack by both Walker and Robins, I am a strong supporter of CSEA and if there was any shady business going on I would be the first one to point it out, that is simply not the case here. Jamie who everyone describes as a hard worker, (from working with him, I know.) worked extra time that would not of been granted as over time to union workers, he donated 90 hours of that extra time saving the city 900 dollars, Walker and Robins both have agendas and are trying to attack Sottile through his son and it is wrong and sickening.

I am nothing if I am not fair and maybe I am wrong on this I will let you the public decide in my online poll look at the facts and decide for yourself :

Do you think Mayor Sottile showed favoritism or violated union rules in granting his son extra time?

Do you think Mayor Sottile showed favortism or violated union rules by granting his son extrra time? Yes No Free polls from Pollhost.com

Aspiring Late Night Political host meets King of Late Night Politics

Jeremy Blaber host of Late Night w/ Jeremy Blaber and Bill Maher host of Real Time w/ Bill Maher briefly crossed paths Friday night at the Palace theater in Albany. Blaber who was there to see Maher perform caught up with him after the show. He was very personable said Blaber. When asked what show was better Blaber conceded, although I have the number 1 show on Kingston Public Access I am not on the Maher level yet.... " He is a genius."

More bad news for Pirro: Federal Investigation over secret recording of her husband

Jeanne Pirro the republican candidate for Attorney General announced Wednesday that she was under FEDERAL INVESTIGATION over hiring NYC Police commissioner Bernard Kerik ( who pled guilty to two ethics violations which were unclassified misdemeanors in early 06) and his private firm to investigate her husband by secretly recording him to see if he was having an affair. " This is unreal said Blaber I am beyond speechless, she is running for Attorney General?? Maybe she should run for State Dog Catcher she might have a better chance. Pirro is challenging Democratic nominee and former HUD secretary Andrew Cuomo for Attorney General.

"I was a very angry woman, and I said a lot of things," Pirro said. "What matters is what I did and didn't do, and I didn't do anything here other than vent."

Pirro, who faces former federal Housing Secretary Andrew Cuomo in the attorney general's race, said she learned about the investigation when she was approached by a pair of
FBI agents outside her home. She repeatedly said this was a personal matter involving her husband and charged she was the target of "an unethical, overzealous prosecutor with a partisan agenda."

U.S. Attorney Michael J. Garcia confirmed in a statement his office was investigating but declined to offer details. But, Garcia said, "we do not take politics into account in deciding either the subject matter or timing of our investigations."

A telephone call to Albert Pirro's White Plains office was not immediately returned Wednesday.

A Cuomo spokeswoman, Wendy Katz, declined comment.

Jeanine Pirro flip flops on choice... What else has she flip flopped on?

NARAL PRO-CHOICE New York proudly endorsed Andrew Cuomo for attorney General today, NARAL passed on endorsing Jeanine Pirro after she betrayed NARAL's endorsement last year by putting her party above her own personal beliefs on choice. What else will she flip-flop on? She simply can't be trusted, I have lost all respect for her said Blaber who pointed out how Andrew Cuomo like him or hate him you know were he stands he is a straight shooter and that is what I want to see in the job of attorney general. " I would not want to be in a fox hole with Pirro he added.

Pirro's Flip Flop timeline:


August 29, 2001 Jeanine Pirro returns a 100% pro-choice signed questionnaire to NARAL Pro- Choice New York including opposition to abortion bans that fail to protect a woman's health.

September 21, 2001 NARAL Pro-Choice New York endorses Pirro's re-election as Westchester District Attorney.

Fall 2001- NARAL Pro-Choice New York conducts Get Out the Vote efforts for Pirro.

January 22, 2002 Pirro serves as keynote speaker at NARAL Pro-Choice New York luncheon, Gaining Pro-Choice Power in the Republican Party

May 2005 Pirro announces she will run for a statewide office but refuses to indicate whether it will be Attorney General or U.S. Senate.

August 8th 2005 Press reports that Pirro is set to announce that she will seek the office of United States Senate.

August 9th, 2005 Mike Long, Conservative Party Chairman is quoted in the New York Times saying, ''Partial-birth abortion and gay marriage are deal breakers for us, and without us, I don't think she can win for the Senate. No Republican has won statewide without our endorsement since 1974.''

August 9th, 2005 Pirro abandons the pro- choice movement by flipping on her former position announcing on CNN that she is now not in favor of protecting a woman's health.

August 10, 2005 Pirro states, It's the life exception that I was in favor of. New York Times

September 2006 Despite repeated contacts and request, Pirro does not provide NARAL Pro-Choice New York with an updated and completed questionnaire for her run for Attorney General.

Blaber News Person of the Week Alderman Clint Brown

This weeks person of the week is Alderman Clint Brown, Alderman Brown is just a great public servant who is dedicated to the people of the fourth ward. (which he represents on the council) Alderman Brown when not answering calls from constituents or walking the ward tackling some of the issues facing the residents of midtown, he can be found running several Neighborhood watch programs in his ward were residents can come together and express the issues of the ward with each other in hopes of improving the quality of life. '' He cares about the people it's that simple if the council was made up of 9 Clint Browns we would be in good shape said Blaber.

Alderman Brown is in his second term as Alderman of the fourth ward and is a member of the Laws and Rules Committee as well as the Community Development Committee and the general government/Public Safety Committee both of which he chairs.

Clinton looks to honor Ulster County womans right leader Sojourner Truth

Senator Hillary Clinton has introduced a bill to have a monument of Truth placed in the US Capital to honor the womans rights leader and inspirational speaker to African Americans having been freed from slavery. I think it is important that we honor Sojourner Truth for her bravery and compassion, I think this monument would be a nice tribute .

''It is past time that we honor a woman who, despite all the hardships she faced, was a tireless advocate for women's rights," said Clinton.



Sojourner Truth began her life as a slave and ended it as a celebrated anti-slavery activist. She was born into slavery in New York and was sold several times before escaping to freedom with an infant daughter in 1827. She worked as a housekeeper, lived in a religious commune, and eventually became a traveling speaker and preacher. Although she could neither read nor write, Truth was a captivating speaker: she reportedly stood nearly six feet tall and was a powerful evangelist who spoke out for women's rights and against slavery. Prompted by religious feelings, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth in 1843. Her memoir The Narrative of Sojourner Truth (as told to author Olive Gilbert) was published in 1850 and helped establish her in the public mind. The next year, at a women's rights convention in Akron, Ohio, she gave her famous speech, "Ain't I A Woman," a short but stirring challenge to the notion that men were superior to women. During the Civil War she worked to support black Union soldiers, and after the war she continued to travel and preach on spiritual topics and as an advocate for the rights of blacks and women.

Van Blarcum picks up endorsement from Ulster's top Dem

Paul Van Blarcum has received the endorsement for sheriff from Town of Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner; last week Woerner endorsed Van Blarcum praising Van Blarcum's extensive experience with the Ulster Sheriff Department making him the most qualified to be the next sheriff of Ulster County. In a light moment Paul pointed out that he has been a police officer 6 more years then Nick has been alive.

Other endorsements:

NYS Attorney General Elliot Spitzer
Ulster County Democratic Party
Ulster County Conservative Party
Ulster County Independence Party
Ulster County Deputy Sheriff's Police Benevolent Association
US Congressman Maurice Hinchey- 22nd District
NYS Assembly Member Kevin Cahill
Town of Woodstock Police PBA
City of Kingston Democratic Committee
Town of Hurley Democratic Committee
Town of Marlborough Democratic Committee
Town of New Paltz Democratic Committee
Town of Olive Democratic CommitteeTown of Rochester Democratic Committee
Town of Saugerties Democratic Committee
Town of Wawarsing Democratic Committee
Town of Woodstock Democratic Committee
City of Kingston Mayor James Sottile
Town of Shandaken Police Benevolent Association
New York State Union of Police Associations(NYSUPA)
CWA Communication Workers of America 1105
(Parent Union of the Ulster County Sheriff's Office Corrections Officers and Civilian Staff)
CSEA Ulster County Local 856 -Ulster County and Upper Hudson Valley Labor Council
County Majority Leader Jeanettee Provanvano
County Majority Whip Rob Parete
Leonard Distel - Ulster County Legislator
Mary Sheeley - Ulster County Legislator
Joseph Stoeckeler, Jr. - Ulster County Legislator
Donald Gregorius - Ulster County Legislator
Peter Kraft - Ulster County Legislator
Richard Parete - Ulster County Legislator
Gary Bischoff - Ulster County Legislator
Frank Dart - Ulster County Legislator
Hector Rodriguez - Ulster County Legislator
Lewis Kirschner - Ulster County Treasurer
City of Kingston Majority Leader Bill Reynolds
Alderman Lenny Walker
Alderman Clint Brown
Alderman Mike Madsen
Alderman Jennifer Ringwood
Alderman Anne Marie DiBella

Charlie landi and Amee Peterson approved to KPA board

Former Alderman Charlie Landi and Amee Peterson were unanimously approved to serve on the KPA commission last Tuesday both will represent the City of Kingston. '' This is great news, I think both of the new commissioners are extremely qualified and will do a fantastic job, I could not of asked for two better people." Both Landi and Petterson volunteered for the betterment of KPA and I really am looking forward to working with them both.

Supervisor Woerner's fundraiser a success, supporters gather at sold out ride

Town of Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner greeted a sold out crowd for a fundraiser put on by the Friends of Nick Woerner. '' 300 tickets were sold, the boat sold out. It shows that Nick has strong support, the people feel he is a great supervisor and his actions thus far are proof that the people are right."

Some notable appearances tonight: Ulster County legislators Mike Berrardi, Brian Cahill, Jeanette Provanzano and Sue Zimet who is currently running for State Senate in the 42nd district, also in attendance former Mayor John Hietzman, 4th ward Alderman Clint Brown, former Alderman Charlie Landi and Ulster County sheriff candidate Paul Van Blarcum. Nick said the Friends of Nick Woerner raised approx. 5000 after expenses. Not Bad.

Attorney General Elliot Spitzer endorses Cuomo to be successor

Elliot Spitzer endorsed Andrew Cuomo to be his successor as NYS Attorney General, Spitzer praised Cuomo calling him EXTREMELY QUALIFIED to Partner Against Powerful Interests and Stand Up to Federal Government for All New Yorkers. Elliot Spitzer has been an excellent attorney general and for him to endorse Mr. Cuomo over his opponent means a lot said Blaber, his input will weigh in on all of New Yorkers.

New York State Democratic candidate Andrew Cuomo today received the endorsement of Attorney General Eliot Spitzer. Attorney General Spitzer praised Cuomo’s outstanding record of results taking on the big fights and announced that together they will be a team bringing reforms to New York.

“I spent 8 years of my career building that office- making it stand for the principals I believe in- building an office that dedicated to public service and values the public litigation,” said Eliot Spitzer. “Protecting that office is something I care deeply about. That is why I am standing here today to endorse Andrew for Attorney General. I understand from examining his record and his career that he has what it takes to be Attorney General -- the deep commitment to public service, the litigation of public issues that sometimes put you in unpopular positions. His dedication to law enforcement, to protecting the laws of the state, to representing the governor and the people of New York makes him extremely qualified to be Attorney General. Andrew understands what it takes and has a record that demonstrates the values that will lead him to be a great Attorney General.”

“I am proud to receive the endorsement of Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, far and away one of the best Attorneys General in this state and nation’s history. I look forward to working closely with Governor Spitzer and the Democratic ticket so that we can bring honor, integrity and principle back to government. Together we will level the playing field and balance the scales of justice. Together, we will take back New York.”

Paul Van Blarcum wins Independence and Conservative lines

Democrat Paul Van Blarcum defeated challenger Kevin Costello to win both the Independent and Conservative line for the U.C. Sheriff race. The Independents and the conservatives went out and spoke they made a clear choice for who they wanted, they choose Paul Van Blarcum.

Paul who was endorsed by both the conservative party, and independent party, faced Costello in a race full of negative campaigning by the opposing side said Ed Gaddy the Conservative party vice- Chairman this proves they want a clean campaign and a candidate that will stick to the issues not write nasty letters about the process.

There is still an election in November Blaber pointed out not wanting to take anything for granted, I am happy by todays results and I hope we have similar results in November. Now that the primary is over people will start looking at the candidate and there qualifications and what they stand for, Mr. Van Blarcum will defiantly stand out his 30 + years in the U.C. Sheriff dept makes him the more qualified candidate. He knows the department, his opponent does not. Mr. Van Blarcum also has experience as an elected official Blaber pointed out having served on both the Onteora school board and as a Shandakan Councilman. If you stack the qualifications side by side there is simply no comparison.

Spitzer, Clinton, and Cuomo stomp the competition

Democratic candidates Elliot Spitzer, Andrew Cuomo, and Hillary Clinton stomped the competition today beating there opponents by a large margin. "We really stuck together today, we (democrats) were able to stand strong and the numbers speak for itself and the numbers will speak in November.

With candidates like Cuomo, Clinton and Spitzer all with proven records of leadership reform can start. We live in a state that has so much potential and we are not living up to it, we used to be the Empire State now people look at us and say what happened?

I am proud of tonights results, I am proud we stuck together and choose the best and most qualified democrats to represent us against the republicans in November.

Molinaro breezes, beats out Manning

Tivoli Mayor Marc Molinaro easily defeated incumbent Assemblyman Patrick Manning to win the republican nomination for the NYS 103rd Assembly district. " This is a big win for Mr. Molinaro and for the people of the 103rd district", I talked to Marc tonight to wish him a congratulations and I had a very positive conversation with him and I hung up with a good feeling of what is to come, he is going to do well said Blaber.

Mr. Molinaro faces democratic challenger Virginia Martin in November, but it is just a formality in a district that has never elected a democrat in it's history. This is just a case were party does not matter it is about getting in the most qualified person and that is Marc Molinaro.

A time to remember and reflect; 5 years later

Dear Friend,

Five years ago today this county faced the worst terrorist attack in it's history, thousands of innocent men, woman, and children died for no good reason when two planes were hijacked and struck the World Trade Center buildings. I never will forget that day I was at school and very confused and saddened by what happened, How could somebody do this? Why would someone want to harm us?

That day was a reminder to us all about the evil in this world, we were attacked by a group of people who wanted to hurt us because of our freedom and they wanted to pull this great country apart but instead we were able to united together as one.

Through out the year we fight and bicker about such little things that really in the scheme of things do not matter, let us take today reflect on on what happened that tragic day and honor the men and woman who died, and our service men and woman who continue to die to protect us in Iraq.

Remember we are all Kingstonians, New Yorkers, and most of all we are all Americans.


Very truly yours,

Jeremy Blaber

IMPORTANT TUESDAY IS PRIMARY DAY

Tuesday the 12th is primary day please remember to get out and vote for information about were to vote please call the Ulster County Board of Elections at 845-334-5470

Please support the following candidates:

Democratic Nomination


Elliot Spitzer for Governor

Andrew Cuomo for Attorney General

Hillary Clinton for U.S. Senate
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Independent Party

Paul Van Blarcum for Sheriff
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Conservative Party

Paul Van Blarcum for Sheriff
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Republican Party

Marc Molinaro NYS Assembly 103rd Assembly district

Vote Andrew Cuomo for AG Tuesday the 12th

Andrew Cuomo's record in HUD speaks wonders to what kind of AG he will be, former persident Bill Clinton called Cuomo's work with HUD as one of the most successful reforms of a federal agency in modern US history. On Tuesday the 12th please join me in making Andrew Cuomo the democratic nominee for attorney general he is the only candidate strong enough to beat the republicans and follow in Elliot Sptizer's footsteps. Also on Tuesday please support our other democratic candidates Elliot Spitzer, for Governor and Hillary Clinton, for U.S. Senate




Andrew Cuomo is a passionate believer in doing what's right and he is a determined leader who gets it done. His test is never soft sentiments, but hard results.
- President Bill Clinton

You have breathed new life into a once-threatened department...As a result, HUD is more ready than ever to lead American communities into the new millennium.
- Representative Richard Gephardt


I commend you and all of the hard working people at HUD as you continue down this road of reform and strive to create a Department that will be a model of reinvention in this new century.
- Vice PresidentAl Gore

[Andrew] led one of the most dramatic and successful reforms of a federal agency in modern U.S. history, with HUD going from the brink of elimination to the forefront of the struggle for justice in America .
- President Bill Clinton,January 12, 2001

When I served as director of the FBI, HUD Secretary Andrew Cuomo asked me to collaborate with him to clean up HUD. At the time HUD was notoriousfor being a $30 billion department rife with waste and fraud. Secretary Cuomo announced a Get Tough program with zero tolerance for waste, fraud and abuse. They designed and implemented a state of the art electronic financial audit and fraud detection system for HUD's 30,000 vendors. This was coupled with a new Enforcement Center headed by an FBI detailee that investigated and prosecuted any fraud. The combination of competent program administration and a new ethic of integrity made a vast difference at HUD. Andrew's experience and achievement in fighting fraud in large government programs makes him an ideal candidate to clean up mismanagement in programs like New York State 's Medicaid Program.
- Louis Freeh, Former Director of the FBI



Ulster County Democratic Chair John Parete
"Andrew Cuomo is the best candidate to be New York's next Attorney General. Andrew's leadership at HUD showed the country and New Yorkers that he is a true champion of reform. When it comes to taking on special interests, cleaning up government, and fighting for middle class and working families Andrew Cuomo will be our strongest voice."

Kingston Mayor James Sottile
"I am proud to support Andrew Cuomo for New York State Attorney General. Andrew's outstanding record of accomplishments as HUD Secretary and at the state and local levels position him to be the most effective Attorney General who will clean up New York's failing Medicaid system, fight corporate polluters, to level the playing field and make government work for all New Yorkers."


Andrew is the proud father of three daughters twins Cara & Mariah, 11, and Michaela, 8.






Please support Andrew Cuomo for Attorney General his leadership abillity makes him the most quilifed candidate to follow in the footsteps of Elliot Spizer. The primary is Tuesday the 12th. Thank You.
-Jeremy Blaber

Blaber News person of the week Mayor Jim Sottile

Mayor Jim Sottile is Blaber News's person of the week for his dedicated work to the City of Kingston and to the community in general. '' Sottile is a dedicated man who works wonders for the community, he is not a 9-5 mayor, he works 10 to 12 hours at city hall then goes to different meeting and events after that. He truly is Mayor 24/7 and is a workaholic.'' During Sottile's tenure as mayor there have been many accomplishments that he has made.....



- Housing has become accessible for all Kingstonians

- Noah Ground breaking

- New tenants in business park creating 500 NEW JOBS

- Our failing sewers are being replaced and updated

- significant Clean up of our environment, due to Kingston's industrial past

- Bond rating has improved tremendously keeping city taxes down and increasing fiscal responsibility.

- Kirkland ground breaking

- Crime Down on a consistent basis

- Opening of an additional police precinct to address crime concerns on Broadway

- aggressively perusing private industry to Kingston by offering incentives and tax-breaks

These are just a few of Sottile's many accomplishments as Mayor of this great city, we should all be proud to have someone like Jim Sottile as our mayor. His leadership and guidance have made this city something to be proud of.

Elliot Spitzer endorses Paul Van Blarcum for U.C. Sheriff

King drops out of AG race and backs Cuomo

Charlie King today dropped out of the Attorney General race and backed Andrew Cuomo saying " I know this is a race I can't win and think we need to now get behind the most qualified candidate, Andrew Cuomo is a great candidate and will be the nominee in a week and I think it is best that I get behind him now so we can start a " united justice campaign."

I applaud Mr.King for getting behind Andrew and I encourage Mr. Malloney and Mr.Green to follow his example, Andrew's outstanding record of accomplishments as HUD Secretary and at the state and local levels position him to be the most effective Attorney General who will clean up New York's failing Medicaid system, fight corporate polluters, to level the playing field and make government work for all New Yorkers.

Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner cuts town taxes

Town of Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner's combined $8.29 million general and highway budget proposal for 2007 would reduce the average homeowner's tax bill by $11 a year.

" Nick has been able to hire the necessary police to protect the towns residents, provide jobs for residents and still lower taxes said Blaber he has worked wonders for the town."

In my opinion in Woerner's first 8 months in office he has far surpassed the previous administration that was in place for several years, the Town of Ulster is lucky to have Supervisor Woerner's leadership, this tax cut is just the latest of several accomplishments Nick has achieved in a relatively short period of time. In just 8 months he has been able to drastically improve the quality of life for town residents.

Under Woerner's proposal town taxpayers would pay $5.68 per $1,000 of assessed value in 2007, down from $5.79 per $1,000, in general and highway taxes. A homeowner with a property assessed at $100,000 who paid $579 in general and highway taxes this year would pay $568 next year.


Woerner stated with the rising cost in County and School taxes town residents could use a break, "Any help the town can give its residents will benefit them" said Nick.

Alderman Reynolds proposes parking Kiosks

Majority Leader Bill Reynolds suggests the City look into installing Kiosks vs. Parking meters. It has become clear that the city is going to get rid of the current two-hour system which seems to not be working. Now it is a question of what to do should the city set up parking meters, Kiosks, or something other.

Personally I think Alderman Reynolds idea is a GREAT one, why stick parking meters all over the place in our historic city, a kiosk could be put up every 100 feet or so rather then every foot, it makes the city look sloppy.

Tivoli Mayor Marc Molinaro to appear on late Night w/ Jeremy Blaber

Tivoli Mayor and NYS Assembly Candidate Marc Molinaro will appear on Late Night w/ Jeremy Blaber this Monday to talk about his campaign for the NYS Assembly.

Mr. Molinaro who is challenging incumbent Assemblyman Patrick Manning for the Republican nomination was endorsed by Blaber earlier this month. People have asked me why did I endorse Molinaro ( who is a republican) it's simple this is a case were it is not about the party, it is about what is best for the people.

" As Mayor Mr. Molinaro has done a great job on a city level and as a Dutchess County legislator he has done a great job on a county level and there is not a doubt in my mind he will do that same great job on a state level"


Note: Marc Molinaro is the first Mayor to appear on Late Night w/ Jeremy Blaber since it's debut to KPA a little over a year and a half ago...........hint....hint..... Jimmy.

Could Rubber sidewalks be in Kingston's future?

Jeremy Blaber has officially asked Common Council President Jim Noble to have the Kingston Common council look into the possibility of using Rubber Sidewalks in the City of Kingston.

I think this would be good for the city to look into, this new rubber sidewalk technique is environmentally friendly they are made from recycled tires. It also expands and allows tree roots to grow underneath the sidewalks with out cracking unlike concrete sidewalks. Blaber also pointed out the life span of a rubber sidewalk is nearly 4 times that of a concrete one.

The idea has gained support from both sides. " I think it's a good idea" said Common council Majority Leader Bill Reynolds. "It is something I would consider" says Minority Leader Richard Cahill. Third Ward Alderman Lenny Walker and Ninth Ward Alderman Mike Madsen also expressed support for the sidewalks.

Blaber's proposal to President Noble included looking into funding to develop a " test site" for the side walks, let's find a small patch of sidewalk approx. 20 feet or so and replace it with the rubber sidewalks and see how it does said Blaber, what do we have to loose?

For more information on the rubber sidewalks go to www.rubbersidewalks.com

Kirkland breaks ground

Last Night The Kirkland ground breaking ceremony took place, a historic building which has sat vacant for decades will reopen thanks to the hard work of the Sottile administration, I thank him for his tireless efforts to make this project a reality and bring the Kirkland back to the community, I also would like to thank RUPCO and Kevin O' Conner who are restoring this great building, this is great news for Sottile this is a project that hits home with him and has been a focus on his administration, most of all this is a win for all of Kingston.


The Kirkland Hotel, located on the corner of Clinton Avenue and Main Street, will be renovated within the next year, and will offer an historic pub space with a handmade wooden bar on the ground floor, and a restaurant with seating for 85, on the first floor, and office space and apartments on the floors above.

The hotel was constructed in 1899 and served as a boarding house until 1917. In 1922, the new owners established it as a hotel and added the restaurant. The hotel accommodations were ended in 1968, and until 1983, a restaurant inhabited the building. It has been vacant since.

RUPCO Executive Director Kevin O'Connor said the building represented a great part of the city. Were making a link from 100 years ago, and not only to today and our generation, but I believe were putting in motion the chance that this building is going to be here 100 years from now, said O'Connor. We've taken some missteps and lost some buildings, but this time I think were getting it right.

Kingston Mayor James Sottile has strong family ties to the hotel. His father worked as a bartender there for 25 years. Sottile became emotional while sharing his dream come true of the renovation of this building.

It's about a community... said the mayor, trying to hold back tears. It's about a community coming together to make dreams come true. If it wasn't for the commitment of this community, our residents love for this community, this dream would not be coming true today.

Congressman Maurice Hinchey secured $1 million toward the renovations and Senator William Larkin secured $500,000 toward the $4 million renovation price tag.

Cuomo wins debate at Pace University

There was a clear winner Thursday night at Pace University as democratic hopefuls battled it out to try to convince the people who is the best candidate to face off against the republican challenger J. Pirro in November. Andrew Cuomo, Sean Patrick Maloney, and Charlie King talked about a variety issues from Medicaid fraud to health care in the end Andrew Cuomo just had better answers to the issues and is more experienced to be the Attorney General said Blaber who attended the debate, there is no doubt that all the candidates are qualified to be New York's lawyer but Andrew Cuomo sticks out as the most qualified.



The debate which lasted for a little over an hour, was interesting in the fact that it is still any mans race there was no clear favorite, while Andrew Cuomo is ahead in the polls he does not have a lead that is too comfortable and needs to continue to get his message out, Sean Maloney, and Charlie King both raised good issues that got a favorable response by the people, Mark Green on the other hand was so nasty toward Cuomo and offered no solutions or facts on three different occasions he was booed.

There were a few light moments during the lightning round were candidates are instructed to answer questions by either a yes or no answer. One of the questions, 'Was Mario Cuomo the best governor New York ever had?" Yes, that is an easy one said Andrew. Another was when candidates were asked " do you have any interest in running for governor" when Cuomo said no, Charlie King questioned if there was a lie detector available.

If there was any doubt that Andrew Cuomo is not the man to beat, when candidates were allowed to ask a question to one of there opponents they all separately choose Cuomo which shows that he is the man they feel they need to beat, this primary will be an interesting one because it is not Cuomo vs. Green with two other no name challengers, it is Cuomo vs. Green vs. King vs. Maloney.

Thank You to Sean P. Maloney for giving Blaber News tickets to the debate.

Blaber News person of the week Jamie Sottile

The head of the Mayor's task force Jamie Sottile is this weeks person of the week for his hard work and tireless efforts to make the City of Kingston run well, Jamie who has been under fire recently by certain people who choose to attack him to get to his father, frankly it is sick. The younger Sottile does an excellent job for this city on and off the clock and goes above and beyond the call of duty. If people want to attack the mayor, then go ahead but do not go through his son.

" The unofficial care taker for the city " says Alderman Robert Senor, Jamie Sottile is the type of person that will work on his day off if something needs to be done and will do so because he loves this city. I have had the privilege to work with Jamie can tell you there is no harder worker then Jamie Sottile, I can't keep up with him. He is simply a hard worker, I get nothing but compliments about Jamie and all the hard work he does.

The Mayor's task force which Jamie leads is responsible for general errands within the City of Kingston from mowing city property, cutting weeds, to picking up trash. All things that make the quality of life better for Kingstonians.

The task force is lucky to have someone like Jamie Sottile, said one Kingston resident, I watched him work one whole day at Kingston Point Beach and he really made it look nice she said.

Sottile tackles Crime with opening of police precinct on Broadway

105k that the City of Kingston will receive out of a 350k state grant "operation impact" will go towards fighting crime said Kingston Mayor Jim Sottile, who plans to use the majority of the money to open up a police precint on Broadway at the location of the current People's place which is moving to a different location.

The precinct will be manned by officers at different times of the day and night said chief Keller. This is great news said Blaber, the mayor is addressing peoples concerns, obviously Broadway is a problem and now there will be a more visible police presence there.


The police department has establish such precincts in the past, including one at the Everette Hodge Midtown Community Center on Franklin Street, Sottile felt the donated location on Broadway was a good move. " We need to be visible in MidTown, Sottile said. "We need to put officers were needed."

Serious crime for the first six months of this year is down 34 percent.

Blaber News Proudly Endorses Joe Lieberman for US Senate

Blaber News is proud to endorse Joe Lieberman for the U.S. Senate, usually Blaber News sticks to local and State Government but due to the current circumstances we have felt compelled to voice our opinion on the 3-term senator. '' I can understand that some may be turned of by some of Senator Lieberman's pro-war stances but he is a good democratic senator, period. I think the democrats really need to stick together and get behind Lieberman for the good of the party, I am sure, well I know Mr. Lamont is a great guy but I think Mr. Lieberman is the better choice for our progressive agenda.

Endorsements:



People
Former President Bill Clinton, who campaigned for Lieberman in Waterbury on 2006-07-24
U.S. Senator Chris Dodd
U.S. Senator and Minority Leader Harry Reid
CA Senator Barbara Boxer, who campaigned for Lieberman on 2006-07-24
DE Senator Joe Biden, HA Senator Daniel Inouye, CO Senator Ken Salazar, who campaigned for Lieberman on 2006-07-31
NY Senator Hillary Clinton
IL Senator Barak Obama
IN Senator Evan Bayh
NJ Senator Frank Lautenberg
DE Senator Tom Carper
CA Senator Diane Feinstein
OR Senator Mark Pryor
OR Senator Ron Wyden
NE Senator Ben Nelson
CT Representative Rosa DeLauro
CT Representative John Larson
CT Lt. Governor Kevin Sullivan
CT Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz
CT State Comptroller Nancy Wyman
CT State Treasurer Denise Nappier
Former Democratic Party Chair John Olson
Blaber News and Commentary www.jeremyblaber.com
All of Connecticut's State Democratic Legislators [104]
All Democratic CT candidates for U.S. Congress [105]
Both Democratic CT candidates for Governor [106]
Republican Congressman Christopher Shays.[107]
Civil Rights Leader and GA Congressman John Lewis who pledged to support Lieberman in the general election as well, regardless of the outcome.[108]

Organizations
The League of Conservation Voters
CT Planned Parenthood
UNITE-HERE, The Human Rights Campaign
The CT AFL-CIO, the Food and Commercial workers, the CT Teamsters, CT Letter Carriers, Firefighters, Carpenters, Communication Workers of America Locals 1103 and 1298, Connecticut's Postal Workers, American Federation of Musicians, the National Association of Government Employees and the National Association of Letter Carriers, Branch 19. [109].
Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund has endorsed Lieberman.[110][111]
AFL-CIO and affiliated labor organizations endorsed Lieberman.[112][113] However, Connecticut AFT, the second largest AFL-CIO union in Connecticut, endorsed Lamont (see below).
Planned Parenthood Federal PAC endorsed Lieberman on June 30, 2006.[114]
NARAL Pro-choice America PAC, which lobbies for reproductive rights nationally, has endorsed Lieberman.[115] However, Carolyn Treiss, head of Connecticut NARAL, supports Lamont.[116]
Human Rights Campaign, one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equal rights organizations in the United States, has endorsed Lieberman.[117]

Newspapers
The Hartford Courant, the state's largest newspaper.[118]
The Connecticut Post, the state's 3rd largest paper, serving Southern Connecticut.[119]
The Washington Post, saying that he "has been faithful to the fundamental values that most Democrats associate with their party".[120]
The New York Post.[121]
On June 14, 2006, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee chairman Charles Schumer said that the DSCC might endorse Lieberman even if he runs as an independent, if Lieberman agrees to vote for Democrat Harry Reid for majority leader if elected.

Jeremy Blaber chases off Republican Gubernatorial candidate John Faso at Ulster County Fair

Jeremy Blaber and John Faso the Republican Candidate for governor, exchanged words today over a variety of issues at the Ulster County Fair but Mr.Faso seemed to get heated when asked by Blaber " Why are you more qualified to be governor''. I asked a very simple question and he dodged the issue.


Here was the exchange:

Blaber: Mr. Faso what makes you more qualified to be governor then Elliot Spitzer?

Faso: I'm here were is Elliot?

Blaber: Mr. Spitzer had a previous commitment that kept him from coming to this event.

Faso: I am sure.

Blaber: He did, so because you are here that makes you more qualified?

Faso: No, but Elliot has no experience as a chief executive.

Blaber: what experience do you have as a chief executive?

Faso: I was a minority leader to the NYS assembly

Blaber: That has nothing to do with being a chief executive.

Faso: You can't win with you people

Faso walks away.

Blaber News embarks on paper edition

Blaber News and Commentary will embark on a weekly paper edition, the news will provide local news about Ulster County and the City of Kingston. The paper will be the first fair and balanced paper in the area. I think this is needed said Blaber, we have to much misinformation out there and no real fair and balanced reporting, Blaber News will not only provide a fair and balanced news source but it will be an outlet for everyone in the community. " I plan to go to local businesses and do stories on the everyday person, if it bleeds it leads will NOT be my philosophy. I think people are sick of that and want a real community paper.

Should Blaber News start a paper edition? Yes No Free polls from Pollhost.com

Bob Gillon appointed to KPA Board

Bob Gillon has been appointed to serve on the KPA board as a City of Kingston representative to fill out the term of Jeanne Edwards who resigned for personal reasons earlier this month. As many people know KPA is going through major changes after moving, dealing with a law suit, funding problems, contract negotiations ect.

Unfortunately though we have a commission that for the most part does not have a lot of support or active members. The KPA desperately needs dedicated people to serve, I know Mr. Gillon he is a friend of mine and there is no one I could think of more qualified to serve then him He is dedicated, reliable and cares about kpa. Bob Gillon will bring a breath of fresh air on the commission and I look forward to working with him.

City of Kingston Person of the Week Robb Kinnin

Robb Kinnin of NetStep Access Services and Calleveryone.com is this week's person of the week for his hard dedicated work to the community. Mr. Kinnin, a local business leader, helps many local companies in the City of Kingston with their Internet and telephone needs. He handles his customers in a professional manner and focuses on the importance of local service. Some of his clients include the City of Kingston and the Kingston City School District. Most recently Mr.Kinnin has installed VOIP [internet] phone service for Kingston Public Access television at NO cost. I am pleased by Robb's actions. It shows that he gives back to the community, I think I speak on behalf of the KPA when I say Thank you, kpa is on a very tight budget and every little bit of savings helps. " I wish I had 10 more Robb Kinnin's"

NetStep Access Services, the Hudson Valley's premier Internet Service Provider, has been providing Internet access, primarily to businesses and schools in the Hudson Valley since 1996.

They specialize in dial up and dedicated Internet access, LAN/WAN setup and consultations, as well as web site development/hosting and server co-location. NetStep is determined to bring you high quality Internet access, with our low user to modem ratio and the best Tech Support in the Valley. Our Local access numbers cover Dutchess, Ulster, Rockland, and Westchester Counties as well as New Jersey, Long Island and the 5 boroughs of NYC.

For more information go to www.netstep.net

Alderman Reynolds works to silence train whistles

Alderman Bill Reynolds has petitioned the Kingston Common Council to decide whether or not to buy horns that would drastically decrease the annoyance of overly loud train whistles, I personally think it is a good idea said Blaber, I get more complaints on my show about the train whistles and it is not going away if anything it seems to be getting worse, I am glad Alderman Reynolds is bringing this issue to the forefront.

Reynolds wrote that train traffic through the city probably will increase in the coming years and that the horns would be a good investment. Routinely, 40-50 freight trains operated by CSX Corp. travel through the city each day.

"Over the last few years, the problem (of loud train whistles) has only worsened, particularly after the CSX Corp. purchased Conrail," Reynolds wrote. "... For several years, my constituents, and even constituents from the neighboring Sixth Ward, have asked me if there is something, anything, we could do about the problem of excessive whistling noise."

Reynolds said the matter even has affected his own family.

"My son has been ripped out of his sleep on several occasions," the alderman said. "We all know how much sleep children need. Their health can be negatively impacted by the lack of it and so can the health of some adults."

The wayside horns, estimated to cost a total of about $360,000, would be placed at the six street-level crossings in the city. When a train approaches, the horns - pointed directly at traffic - would be activated, rendering the train whistles unnecessary.
Proponents of the horns say their sound would not carry as far as that of the train whistles, which can be heard for miles around.

Reynolds, who pledged two weeks ago that he would request borrowing money to buy the horns, added that he is "asking the Common Council to consider (the) request to bond for the funds we will need to purchase wayside horns so people young and old, for the sake of their health and safety of others, can get a better night's sleep."

Alderwoman AnnMarie DiBella, who supports Reynolds' position, said the time has come to purchase the horns.

"I think there is enough compelling reasons to convince the council that this is something that needs to be done to improve a long standing problem in the city," said DiBella, D-Ward 5.
The matter probably will go to the council's Finance/Economic Development Committee first. If it reaches the floor of the full nine-member council, six "yea" votes (a two-thirds majority) would be needed to approve borrowing any money to buy the horns.

The six-street level railroad crossings in Kingston are on Flatbush Avenue, Cemetery Road, Foxhall Avenue, Tenbroeck Avenue, Gage Street and Smith Avenue.

Kingston Public Access back on the air!

Kingston Public Access returns to the air waves after a 3 week hiatus, The station is pleased to be back said Blaber, who is vice-chairman of the Kingston Public Access commission. I think over all we made a pretty smooth transition we had a lot to do moving all the equipment to the new studio, re-hooking everything up and securing insurance which Blaber admits took a little more time then expected but pointed out that it took longer because we shopped around to get the best rate so we can save money, and have more to invest back into the station.

The new studio is located at 5 Sterling St. In the City of Kingston, I really think it is a step up from where we were there is a lot more space and has a lot more potential to be something great. I would like to give a special thanks to Alderman Bob Senor who spent over 10 hours helping the station move and setting things up so we could get back on in a timely fashion.

Any producers who have any questions about the new studio or need a key to the building are asked to e-mail kpa at kpa@hvc.rr.com for more information.

Spitzer and Suozzi square off

Last night, Attorney General Elliot Spitzer and Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi squared off in a debate at Pace University, both candidates held there own said Blaber but at the end of the night there defiantly was a clear winner, Elliot Spitzer has better idea for NY state and Mr.Suozzi choose to attack the attorney general on a number of things and I think it back fired; people do not want that type of campaign. They want someone who will stick to the issues and Mr. Spitzer did just that.



Democrats Eliot Spitzer and Tom Suozzi clashed in the first governor's campaign debate on Tuesday night. If you look at the polls, it's obvious Tom Suozzi's in trouble: almost 70 points down and he had to go on the attack tonight. He did from the very beginning.

Suozzi: "Eliot's been in office past seven and a half years in Albany and he's never really focused on government reform. Instead, he's focused on Wall Street."

Spitzer hit back, accusing Suozzi of balancing Nassau County's budget with higher taxes and criticized him for running a negative campaign.

Spitzer: "You called me King George. You said standing up to me is like fighting tyranny. Last time I checked Tom, we hadn't taxed any of your tea."

They clashed on many key issues, like gay marriage:

Spitzer: "I think same sex marriage should be legal. I will propose a bill to permit that to be the case in the state of New York."

Suozzi: "I do not agree with Eliot Spitzer and I do not support gay marriage."
Death penalty:

Suozzi: "I will always remain opposed to the death penalty on principle."

Spitzer: "In context of crimes against humanity, terrorism, death of police officers, yes I believe the death penalty is appropriate sanction."
They also disagreed on Mayor Bloomberg's praise of Con Edison CEO Kevin Burke.

Spitzer: "Do I share my good friend Mike Bloomberg's view of the CEO of Con Ed, absolutely not. I was stunned that he said it."

Suozzi: "There's no question. Con Ed should've done a better job, but I'm not going to second guess the mayor and say he was wrong."

And when asked if either candidates was interested in becoming the president of the United States, they disagreed on that too.

Spitzer: "No, I'm not."

Suozzi: "Yes, I am."

Only Tom Suozzi met with reporters after the debate. He accused Eliot Spitzer of becoming hostile backstage because Suozzi was holding a book with notes. Spitzer's campaign pointed out that having notes was against debate rules.

Suozzi needed this debate to give his campaign some exposure. The problem is: it was seen only by a handful of cable viewers.

Gore Makes environmental Appeal

CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y. (AP) -- Former Vice President Al Gore said his conscience is regularly challenged by a consumerism that contributes to the global warming he has made it his mission to reverse.

"It is so hard for those of us who want to live according to our values," Gore said Monday at the Chautauqua Institution, during the latest in a series of lectures he has given on global warming.
"We're embedded in a culture that makes it so easy to just go with the flow and support a pattern that's horribly destructive," he said. "And so we need to address this personally."

Gore first lectured on global warming at the western New York think tank in 1990. Since then, the consensus that the planet is in crisis has grown stronger, he said, and the ability to make the point is not cluttered by campaign issues like the economy and health care.

"This is by far the most serious challenge that we face or have ever faced," he said during the 90-minute appearance. "None of the other ones will matter if we don't get this right."
Later, Gore planned to sign copies of his book, "An Inconvenient Truth." The related documentary film was being shown on campus.

Dressed in a navy suit and tie and occasionally wandering from his podium, Gore showed the packed house dozens of slides to make his point that human behavior, if not changed, would destroy the planet.

He pointed to the melting of glaciers and mountain ice caps, bleaching of coral reefs, strengthening of hurricanes and record numbers of tornadoes.
Latest News

"We're playing with fire here and we have to act quickly," he said. "The good news is we can."
Flyers distributed to attendees urged them to use fluorescent light bulbs, drive less, plant a tree, recycle and avoid products with a lot of packaging to reduce carbon dioxide. Besides the 5,500 people in the auditorium, at least 200 people waited outside during his address.
Gore said he and his wife, Tipper, who was in the audience, had adopted a "carbon neutral lifestyle."

"We've fallen into this pattern of consuming more and more and more and I'm part of it, I understand," he said.

Note: This story is from the A.P.

Blaber News Endorses Marc Molinaro for NYS Assembly

Blaber News is pleased to endorse Marc Molinaro for the NYS Assembly, Mr. Molinaro has done wonders for Tivoli on a town level and a great job for Dutchess on a county level, I know that he will do a good job for the assembly on a state level said Blaber, it is not about the party (Molinaro who is a republican) he is a great public servant and I feel he will do the best job.


“I take my role as a public servant very seriously. Serving in elected office since 1994 I have dedicated myself to enthusiastic and honest public service.

Never missing a legislative meeting and working in a bi-partisan manner, I have been involved in the drafting or promotion of every major piece of legislation adopted in the last four years. From public health, to criminal justice, from land use funding to sweeping reform of our child protective services, I have attempted to represent the interests of our community while addressing the major issues facing our county.

I love public service and I love the communities I serve. As a graduate of the Red Hook school district, community volunteer and proud parent, I am invested and committed to the people I serve. I value our diversity, heritage, landscape, possibilities and potential. I will listen, learn and strive to make a difference in your life and the life of our community.

Troubled water within the GOP

Alderman Bob Senor and Alderman Al Teetsel have come under fire by Kingston Republican chairwoman Jean Jacobs for not siding with Minority Leader Rich Cahill on key issues, Jacobs specificity lashed out at Alderman Senor saying he was not a team player and fell short of calling him a poor leader " a good leader listens, Senor is going Solo" Senor is an alderman with an independent voice and has done a good job thus far. Senor and Teetsel have listened to both sides and offered solutions that is there job it is Mr. Cahill who seems to be going solo, said Blaber but I will let them fight amongst themselves.

In response, Senor said he is doing the job that his constituency wants him to do and is getting more accomplished by cooperating with the mayor's office. There was a time when the veteran alderman, almost on a daily basis, criticized Sottile as mayor and when he was Common Council president.

Senor pointed out the Common Council unanimously appointed him as acting mayor while Sottile was out of town this past weekend, something that would never have happened a few years ago.

"I would have been lucky then if they made me dog warden," Senor said.

Jacobs also criticized Senor and Teetsel for their expected attendance this Thursday on the mayor's fundraising boat cruise, the largest donation event the mayor holds all year.

"I am disturbed by that," Jacobs said.

Senor said neither man paid for cruise tickets and said his employer purchased them and he decided to go for a friendly outing.

"I have a personal life," Senor said.

Jeremy Blaber and local Kingston Developer Steve Aaron

Chief Keller sees drop in Serious Crime 34%

For the first half of 2006 Serious Crime is down 34% from last year, after rising 17% in late 05. '' This shows that the city is not going to let crime run rampant, and you have to give the credit to Chief Keller and all of the members of the Kingston Police Department. They are true professionals, who do an excellent job for this city'' said Blaber. I talked with the Chief last week and you can just tell how much he cares about the city and making it a safe place to live for the residents of this community.


What is a serious crime? Using FBI standards, the city defines serious crime as murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny and vehicle theft.

"I am pleased that (crime statistics) are down over last year, and I am cautiously optimistic that we will maintain that downward trend," Keller said. "It has gone down a substantial amount over a six-month period."

Among the new crime statistics:
* There were 13 reports of motor vehicle-related thefts during the first half of 2006, compared to 25 in the second half of 2005 and 23 in the first half of 2005.
* There were 58 burglary reports, compared to 56 and 59.
* There were 26 robbery reports, compared to 37 and 35.
* There were 18 reports of aggravated assault, compared to 19 and 15.
There also were four reported rapes during the first half of 2006, compared to seven in late 2005 and four in early 2005.
Kingston has had no reported murders or negligent manslaughters so far in 2006, and there also were none during all of 2005.

Keller could not say with certainty why serious crime has been down this year, but he noted that his department has put extra officers on the streets of Midtown - an area where criminal activity has been a problem over the years - thanks, in large part, to money provided by a state crime-fighting program called Operation Impact.

He also said his department has been successful in reducing the number of vehicle break-ins by arresting perpetrators and urging the public to keep valuable items out of view in their cars.

Shandaken Town Supervisor Robert Cross strikes town resident

Republican Town of Shandaken Supervisor Robert Cross Jr. struck a town resident Tuesday night, minutes before there scheduled meeting the resident came in barely able to walk saying " Supervisor Cross just punched me in the face." What example is this Town Leader sending? If you do not like what your constituents have to say, you have the right to knock them out? The abuse of power is unbelievable.

Cross a republican, who has been town supervisor for 2{ years, has recently faced accusations of incompetence over his handling of negotiations with New York City over details of the proposed Phoenicia sewer system. Some residents even called for his impeachment two months ago.
The supervisor has been criticized for a number of actions during his term, but none had risen to the level of Monday's altercation.

Vinci, who is small compared to Cross, said after the meeting that the fight broke out when he informed Cross of his intention to "go public" that evening and expose Cross' behavior and actions regarding a lawsuit that Vinci and other landowners had filed against Cross and the town's assessors.

Vinci later addressed the Town Board, calling Cross a liar and other names, and outlining elements of the lawsuit.

"This is why he hit me outside," Vinci said. "Because of what I'm about to say now."
Vinci then launched a scathing attack on Cross and the assessors, claiming he was a victim of extortion and strong-arm tactics during a dispute over the assessed value of 500 acres he owns in town.

KPA to re-start KPA awards

Kingston Public Access to start awards for best shows..... "kpa will start a search for a 9 member board that will decide on awards for shows on the station, the awards will cover all sorts of categories from best political show, to best musical show. One award that will remain is the T.R. Gallo award which is for the best overall show on the station, T.R. was a strong supporter of public access and I think he would be happy of what kpa has turned into."

Mayor Sottile sees City of Kingston credit rating skyrocket

The city of Kingston credit rating goes up once again during the Sottile administration this time by 2 full points going from a Baa 1 to an A rating, this is great news for The City of Kingston said Blaber this higher credit rating will allow the city to borrow money at a lower credit rating therefore lowering taxes.

Mayor Sottile's work in this effort is a great indication that he does not just settle when it comes to the city and it's residents, he worked hard to get the best rating possible and in the end his efforts paid off.

Mayor James Sottile called the new "A" rating by Standard & Poor's an indication of the improving health of city finances and said the rating will help the city get lower interest rates when it borrows money.

Earlier this year, the city was rated "Baa1" by Moody's Investor Service, two points below the Standard & Poor's rating.

Alderman Rich Cahill, accused the Mayor of ratings shopping, although such a comment does not warrant a response, I will say this Alderman Cahill has criticized every move made by Mayor Sottile yet he has offered no solutions. Mr. Cahill needs to remember that he can no longer throw snowballs from the outside, he is an alderman and held at a higher standard.

What should be done with The Carnegie Library?

The Carnegie Library has sat dormant for 30 years after it was sold to the Kingston School District, since then it has deteriorated to the point that it is now estimated that this historical landmark will cost 3 million dollars to repair, this price will only go up as time goes on and more problems occur the time to act is now. Let's not let what happened to the "old post office" happen to The Carnegie Library.

A brief history on Carnegie Library's : Carnegie libraries are libraries which were built with money donated by Scottish-American businessman Andrew Carnegie. Over 2,500 Carnegie libraries were built, including public and university libraries. Carnegie earned the nickname Patron Saint of Libraries.
Of the 2,509 libraries funded between 1883 and 1929, 1,689 were built in the United States, 660 in Britain and Ireland, 156 in Canada, and others in Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, and Fiji. Very few towns that requested a grant and agreed to his terms were refused. When the last grant was made in 1919, there were 3,500 libraries in the United States, nearly half of them paid for by Carnegie.

In the early 20th century, a Carnegie library was the most imposing structure in hundreds of small American communities from Maine to California. Contrary to the belief of many people, most of the library buildings were unique, displaying a number of different Beaux-Arts and other architectural styles, including Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Classical Revival and Spanish Colonial. Each style was chosen by the community and was typically simple and formal, welcoming patrons to enter through a prominent doorway, nearly always accessed via a staircase.

Carnegie believed in giving to the "industrious and ambitious; not those who need everything done for them, but those who, being most anxious and able to help themselves, deserve and will be benefited by help from others.

The Carnegie Library is a historical landmark in the City of Kingston, and I think it is fair too say the community wants it restored, it has been the subject of two State of the City addresses by our Late mayor T.R. Gallo, In 2002 Mayor Sottile was exploring the possibility of the City taking it back and putting it on tax-rolls and in 2003 Assemblyman Kevin Cahill was able to secure a 250k grant to stabilize the building for the school district, so while everyone is able to agree The Carnegie Library building needs to be restored there are many ideas on what should be done with it. What do you think? I am looking for public input on what should be done with The Carnegie Library, please take a second and fill out your opinion in our poll and in the viewer comments section which will be presented to the Mayor and the School Board at a city wide meeting I am organizing early next month. Your input is very much appreciated.

Blaber News Person of the Week Alderman Mike Madsen

This weeks Blaber News Person of the week is Kingston Alderman Mike Madsen for his tireless work to settle a new contract between Time Warner cable and the city of Kingston and his work with Kingston Public Access Ch.23. " Alderman Madsen has went out of his way to try to finalize this contract said Blaber he has also worked hard with K.P.A. and I think the council is privileged to have him as there Cable Committee Chairman.


Alderman Mike Madsen who chairs the Kingston Cable Committee has worked hard to finalize a contract with Time Warner cable and the City of Kingston, a contract which is 10 years over due. There have been many obstacles in the way of finalizing this contract but because of Madsen's diligent work with the rest of the members of his committee and continuing the hard work of former alderman Chris Gonyea who was very instrumental in his work in trying to get this contract signed,( he as well was chairman of the cable committee during his tenure as Alderman), a new 10-year contract will be signed next month.

Alderman Madsen is also the liaison to the KPA commission and helped with KPA's recent telethon, were he spearheaded the grave yard shift going on with producer Shawn Keizer and Chris Gonyea from 1230 to 6am. I am a night owl said Madsen and I wanted to go on and show my support for KPA and try to raise money. Alderman Madsen has been a strong supporter of having KPA develop 501 (c)3 status.