Dozens of Local Businesses Show their Overwhelming Support for Gallo at Parade

Shayne at the parade, he has assured everyone this is the last time he wears the transition glasses outdoors ;~)

 The St. Patrick's Day parade this weekend and it was a blast. A lot of hometown pride, Brian Cahill said it best on his facebook, the AOH sure knows how to bring the community together.

I also saw a lot of support from local businesses along the parade route for Shayne Gallo, businesses starting from the Academy Green to the end of the route downtown, were displaying signs in their windows supporting Gallo's candidacy. I did see a few people wearing stickers for Cahill and Polacco but the support for Gallo was overwhelming.

Wadnola Defends $800 Dinner: "They Drank More Than They Ate" ??

Interesting Article in the Shawangunk Journal this week.


FROM SHAWANGUNK JOURNAL

ULSTER COUNTY DISPATCH

Chairman Defends Dinner

By Paula Sirc

KINGSTON – Of the receipts reflecting the thousands of dollars spent annually by former director of the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency Mike Bemis on hotels, conferences and dinners, one bill, in particular, nags at Ulster County Chairman Fred Wadnola, R-Lake Katrine. The item in question is a receipt for an $800 agency staff dinner at his wife's restaurant, Fred's Place.

"I didn't even know about the party and she didn't remember it until they brought the receipt over," he said.

Memory refreshed, Wadnola said that the party was attended by all of the agency's staff, who "drank more than they ate," and was a celebration of the DEC permit that the agency had received. "That was in 2007, when I had nothing to do with the RRA," the county chairman said. "They keep crucifying Fred's Place, yet the agency had a Christmas party at another local place and spent over $900 and no one said a word."

The receipt for the dinner is dated Jan. 25, 2008, which, as reported in the Daily Freeman, was eleven days after the county's environmental committee floated the idea of Wadnola serving on the agency's board.

Nominated to the board by former Minority Leader, Glenn Noonan, Wadnola's appointment was confirmed in February 2008. It was during his tenure on the trash agency's board, he said, that they passed a resolution banning alcohol consumption.


The chairman also defended Legislator Kevin Roberts, R-Wallkill, who he appointed to chair the Government Services Committee that oversees the trash agency. The Freeman reported that in August 2009, while he was on the legislative board that oversees the agency, Roberts asked for and received a $14-per ton discount from the agency for 8.5 tons of debris from his contracting company.


Wadnola said that while he wouldn't have done what Roberts did, it was an innocent misstep and that the legislator was only "doing what contractors do — when they go to different landfills, they try to get the best price they can."

The chairman said that the focus on the RRA has been far too political and that attention should be drawn to the work that's being done right now to make the agency financially viable.

The UCRRA has been under financial scrutiny since August when Ulster County Comptroller Elliott Auerbach issued a report criticizing the lack of legislative oversight involved in the operations of the agency. The report examined some $32 million in fees, known as Net Service Fees, NSF, that the county has paid the trash agency since 1992, per an agreement between the county and the UCRRA.

The net service fee — the difference between RRA expenses and revenues — reduces the cost of services to taxpayers and keeps the agency competitive. A 1992 contract with the county requires taxpayers to pay the fee.

Wadnola believes that the agency would "wipe out" the net service fee entirely and begin to repay county taxpayers by siting a county landfill in one of the towns.

"We'd save anywhere from $4-7 million in fuel from trucking everything up to Syracuse," he said.

Noting the improvements in landfill technology since the UCRRA initially tried to site one in the early 1990's, including environmentally-friendly synthetic liners, Wadnola said, "I wouldn't have a problem with siting a landfill in the Town of Ulster — it would produce revenue for the town in terms of a community benefit and for the county and would save taxpayers millions of dollars."

Open Thread

What's going on out there, what are you hearing?

Slideshow of Shayne Gallo at Butch Guido's 30th Anniversary of Mariner's Harbor

Dutchess County Executive Molinaro? Sounds Good To Me.

I talked to the Assemblyman who sounds to me like he is running. Marc is a friend that I think would be a great County Executive and I wish him the best.

Chief Keller Retiring

Chief Jerry Keller announced on Saturday that he was retiring as Kingston Police Chief at the end of the year. I wish Chief Keller the best of luck and thank him for his service to Kingston, he's a great chief that served with integrity and kept Kingstonians safe.

I think you will see  a lot of department heads retiring at the end of the year, that's the way it goes when a new administration starts. The new Chief of police whomever it be will have big shoes to fill.

Cahill Making Another Run

Developing : I have it on good authority a big announcement will be forthcoming this evening by Rich Cahill who will be a guest on Right Time Radio on WKNY from 6-630pm. I am under the assumption he will be announcing his candidacy for Mayor of the city of Kingston.

Rich Cahill will be the first candidate on the Republican side to declare for Mayor. Kingston Alderman Ron Polacco is also expected to be gearing up for a run.

Quigley Not Running For Executive

I have now learned town of Ulster Supervisor Jim Quigley will not run for Ulster County Executive. Quigley has conceded to Republicans in the know that he recognizes that he would not be able to beat Mike Hein this November. Quigley plans on running for reelection in Ulster.

Auerbach's Audit of the RRA Part 2

“We know the County is ultimately on the hook for the Agency’s debt and for compliance with environmental laws, if the Agency is not planning for success then the County will need to plan for its failure.”

   -Ulster Comptroller Elliott Auerbach





Auerbach RRA Audit

Read audit by clicking above.

Some of the reports findings include:




Expenses are outpacing revenues by nearly 3.5% a year and at that rate by 2014 expenses will exceed income.

A majority of the Agency’s revenue contracts (21 of 37) will expire in 2012 and without intervention by 2014 the Agency’s sole revenue contract will be with Ulster County.

Capital assets have been decreasing since 2006.

As of 2009 the Agency has a total debt of $38,908,859 due through 2025.

The Agency’s debt reserve continues to trend downward after decreasing by almost $10 million since 2000.

The Comptroller’s research found no documentation of long-term operational and financial planning. “As we looked at the financial landscape of the Agency it became clear that it has been functioning on a day-to-day basis these past many years,” said Auerbach.

Congratulations to Chicago Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel!!!

Dr. Benjamin

An interesting note, I had the privilege last week of running into Dr. Jerry Benjamin, a high ranking Suny New Paltz guy, former chair of the County Legislature and the so called mastermind of the Ulster County Charter.

I went and introduced myself to Dr. Benjamin and he said yeah your the guy with the website right? I was honored just that he knew who I was, we talked for a few minutes and he went on to tell me my name Blaber means to talk..I think he thinks my last name is spelled Blabber, with two b's not one.

Anyway, Benjamin's the type of guy that is so brilliant, I had a five minute conversation with the guy and didn't know by the end of it whether he liked me or was insulting me. I have a great deal of respect for Dr. Benjamin and am a huge fan of his daughter Liz Benjamin who is the host of Capital Tonight on ch.6.. Liz is is by far the number one personality covering politics in New York State right now, at least until I start covering Albany :~)

Hats Off To Assemblyman Skartados

Hats off to Frank Skartados who ran a tight race in the 100th Assembly district, losing to Assemblyman Tom Kirwin by just 15 votes with close to 50 votes in a Democratic district thrown out.

Assemblyman Skartados did a great job and I am confident in two years we will return this great public servant back to the NYS Assembly.

Jason West for New Paltz Mayor

Today I officially withdraw my name from consideration as a candidate for mayor in the Village of New Paltz. While the office of the mayor is considered a part time position, the residents of New Paltz need a mayor that can devote full time hours to the position, I simply do not have the time. I strongly support and encourage New Paltz residents to support my good friend and the next mayor of New Paltz Jason West.

There are other reasons for my decision, there is something I have had my eye on for almost six years that may open up this year, a position I feel I do have the time to devote to and an office I have strong ties to, but we'll discuss that a later date.

RIP Detective John Falcone

Parete Lawsuit

Below is the John Parete lawsuit over redistricting. This is a good lawsuit that is designed to help make sure that the legislature does not am mend or change the lines after the commission is done drawing the lines..basically John Parete, a former Democratic Elections Commissioner is making sure that the redistricting is done impartial as stated in the charter.

When it comes to reapportionment the charter is a little vague, which is one of the reasons for the suit, Parete is asking for a Judge to offer his/her opinion on the matter. Pay close attention to paragraphs 12-16.

paretelawsuit

The Reynolds Column

Please take a look at Hugh Reynolds' Colum by clicking here.

News store here

Hugh Reynolds on the D.A. Race, Ulster Publishing 2/18

Last week’s fundraiser for Jon Sennett, a Democratic candidate for Ulster County district attorney, was more noteworthy for who was there than how many. Ticket sales, at $75 per, were less than robust — somewhere between 80 and 100.

But political clout was much in evidence... Sennett, the party’s unsuccessful candidate for DA in 2007, spent a good deal of the interregnum mending fences and securing support. It shows.

Endorsing the candidate at the fundraiser were assemblyman Kevin Cahill and county executive Mike Hein, an odd couple rarely seen on the same page or in the same room together. If Sennett can unite those factions, he’s halfway home.

Also dropping by with a grin, a handshake and a check was Independence Party chairman Len Bernardo. The Indies backed maverick Democrat Vince Bradley Jr. in the ’07 ménage a trois between Republican Holley Carnright, Sennett and Bradley. They could provide the margin of victory in this year’s election. Bernardo, who shamelessly describes himself as “a power broker,” will steer his party’s nomination to the highest bidder. That he appears at anybody’s fundraiser is no guarantee of support from the wily pol.

Bradley, only 43, is out of this year’s race, happily operating out of Poughkeepsie as the state attorney general’s Hudson Valley representative. But the “Bradley vote” is very much in play.A Kingston resident and heir to the old guard, Bradley polled 22 percent of the vote on the Independence and Conservative party lines. Sennett, with support from the Working Families Party, came in with 34.3. Carnright won the election on the Republican line with 43.5 percent. But even the best brains (?) in each party aren’t sure just what constitutes the “Bradley vote” and how to get at it.

It’s a mixed bag of independents, conservatives, Republicans and Democrats that defies easy analysis. For instance, Carnright trounced Sennett in Kingston, seat of Democratic dissension, where Dems hold a two-to-one enrollment advantage. Meanwhile, appearances to the contrary, Carnright isn’t just sitting around awaiting his fate. While publicly eschewing politics, the DA has been quietly courting support, with a particular focus on the Bradley vote and the Independence nomination.

Read more: Hudson Valley Times - The race is on

Wadnola's Arrogance

I don't know how I missed this but it's unreal. The record did a story on an issue going on in the legislature and when Wadnola was called for comment he said the following:

Wadnola responded to a call by saying he didn't wish to discuss legislative business while on vacation in the state of Florida.

REALLY MR. CHAIRMAN??!! What arrogance!

Let me just remind everyone that Fred Wadnola was paid by you, the tax payers for the month of January and not only did he not work for that month he wouldn't even respond to a reporters phone calls seeking comment from the Chairman of the legislature.

Read story by clicking here

Ulster County Legislature Fun

A few interesting observations from last nights County Legislature meeting:


Rich Gerentine is being held back in the gop, the guy is on the top of his game. Gerintine is head and shoulders above most of his gop colleges...he should at the very least be majority leader.

Gerentine who hails from the same hometown as Jersey Shore star "Snooki", came up to me and informed me: "unlike Snookie my tan is real", referring to a comment someone posted on my blog accusing Gerentine of using bronzer...I feel ridiculous even writing that last paragraph but I thought it was funny..

Majority Leader Paul Hansut took issue with me spelling his name wrong on the blog in a recent post. It's H-A-N-S-U-T, said a loud Hansut as he saw me walking into caucus but he didn't seem too upset. My apologies to the Majority Leader.

Fred Wadnola proved me right he defiantly can't take criticism! During the public comment portion of the county leg meeting last night, a man dared to criticize him for taking a five week vacation and that gentleman was told to sit down and shut up. Never in the six years I have been following local politics has this happened. Public comment is public comment, you don't stifle someones opinion because you disagree with them. The speaker got a huge applause and Legislator Dave Donaldson called Wadnola out for what he did.

Earlier in the evening Wadnola gave his state of the county speech and cleared half the room in what was a packed legislature minutes before he got up to speak...let's just say it was not a good night for Chairman Wadnola and he didn't do himself any favors.

Before boring Wadnola cleared everyone out of the legislature, County Executive Mike Hein spoke to a standing room only crowd. Some of what Hein highlighted were his accomplishments in presenting a budget that passed with a 0% tax increase, and taking on the D.E.P, and winning to protect local farmers and residents in Ulster County...his full speech will be posted later tonight.

County Executive Hein was clearly on his game and had the entire room eating of his hand about half way through his state of the county. Hein is going to breeze to reelection this November.

And, finally I give Legislator Sue Zimet a lot of credit for defending Terry Bernardo on the floor of the legislature last night. Zimet went after Wadnola, who at times refused to call on her, Zimet blasted Fred for how he treated Bernardo. Legislator Bernardo is hard working was a great chair and you promised that you would not retaliate against her said Zimet. "What you did was despicable"

I recieved the following from former town of Ulster Supervisor Nick Woerner:

Letter to Editor - Kingston Police 02-16-2011

Dear Editor:

In following the news coverage regarding the issues surrounding the Kingston Police Department Double Dipping Probe, I felt it would be prudent to point out a potential solution that may have stopped this from occurring. The Town of Ulster Police Department regulations require that officers seeking outside employment obtain the approval of the Chief of Police prior to engaging in such employment.

The request for approval is made on a form on which the officer is required to indicate the name and address of the proposed outside employer, the hours and dates the officer proposes to work and the nature of the employment. Any approval given is valid for a period of one year. The policy also provides for an appeal of a denial of approval to the Police Commission.

This policy is consistent with New York State General Municipal Law 208-d which specifically authorizes police officers to:

“engage in extra work for another employer outside his regular hours of duty for not exceeding twenty hours a week provided that such extra work does not interfere or conflict with his regular duties as a member of the force or his availability for emergency duty nor affect his physical condition to the extent that it impairs his ability to efficiently perform such duties and further provided that the type of employment shall first be approved by the appropriate police department or police commissioner.”

I would urge the members of the Common Council of the City of Kingston to consider the adoption of a policy similar to that of the Town of Ulster.

Respectfully,

Nicky B. Woerner
Former Supervisor
Town of Ulster

Sottile Steps Up To The Plate

photo by Clark Richters


I'm not interested in rehashing the Tim Matthews story, every newspaper has it and I just do not have the time or desire to write about it. I respect and like Det. Matthews and my views are partisan.

I did attend the press conference though that was held by Mayor Sottile and Tom Dinapoli. It was interesting. Read about what happened by clicking here---> DiNapoli Details Fraud.


During the press conference Mayor Sottile accepted full responsibility for what allegedly happened, when asked by a reporter whether or not he lost faith in Chief Keller over the scandal he stood up like a man and said that he was just as responsible for what happened as Jerry Keller and had full faith in the Chief's abilities moving forward. Sottile also made it clear that Keller did all the right things when this came to light, preserving evidence ect.

I am no fan of Jim Sottile but I give him a lot of credit for that, he easily could have passed the buck onto Keller and the department and he didn't. Mayor Sottile did the right thing, Chief Keller is an asset to Kingston and a damn good police chief and we are lucky to have his leadership.


Another more humorous part of the press conference that showed how scared D.A. Carnright is, was when Mayor Sottile was asked if the Matthews case had any influence on his decision not to seek reelection. Carnright who is running for reelection, thought the question was directed at him and turned white as a ghost... half the room looked at Jon Sennett who also attended the event and had a nice laugh at the District Attorney's expense...some may have been laughing with Holly but most like me, were laughing at him.

Good to see Shayne Gallo in attendance at yesterday's press conference, like the future D.A., the future mayor will have to deal with this issue and if nothing else find ways to make sure similar situations like this do not repeat themselves. Where was Hayes Clement and the other would be mayor candidates??

Blaber News Poll: Hein Crushes Quigley

If the race for county executive were held today, County Executive Mike Hein would crush his would be challenger town of Ulster Supervisor Jim Quigley according to a recent hypothetical poll on the Exec race.

The poll that more than 400 people participated in has Hein cruising over Quigley with 56% of the vote to Quigley's 43.

Jim Quigley is rumored to be running for the Republican nomination for executive and has already been in touch with town committees regarding the race. Hein is largely favored to easily win reelection in November no matter who the challenger may be.

The poll is not scientific.

Sennett Off to Great Start in Becoming the People's D.A.

Here are a few articles of interest on Jonathan Sennett's announcement for District Attorney..check them out!

Sennett Redux...Hugh Reynolds

YNN Story w Video

Daily Freeman w video

Record Online story

Now take two seconds and join Jon's Facebook Group by clicking here. When you get to the page click the "Like" button.

Come On Fred, Man Up!

waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah, I can't take a little criticism
- Chairman Fred Wadnola

Chairman Fred Wadnola has an issue with me about a blog posting I made about three weeks ago, regarding the RRA, more specifically a dinner at Fred's place that was billed to the RRA.

Instead of calling me himself, he is having his wife call all over town looking for my cell phone number so she can call and yell at me. I have gotten 4 phone calls! If it's someone that she knows likes me she says: Do you have Jeremy's number, I want to do an ad for Fred's place on the blog. If it's someone she THINKS dislikes me she admits to them them she wants to call and tell me off. If four people told me this in one day, I can't imagine how many people were called.

HERE IS MY NUMBER MR. CHAIRMAN : 718-662-9748 AND JUST DO ME A FAVOR BE A MAN AND CALL ME YOURSELF, I DON'T WANT TO TALK TO YOUR WIFE. (Dial a 1 first before the area code, Fred...he's not that tech savvy)

The funny thing about all this is that, this happened two weeks ago! Wadnola is making an issue now because he just found out due to the fact he has been on a month long vacation in Florida.

Not only should Fred man up and not have his wife fight his battles but he should also man up and return his salary for the month of January becasue he did no work.

Fred Wadnola makes about 19k as Chair of the county legislature and I will give him the benefit of the doubt he sent a few e-mails and made a few phone calls (or Chynthia did for him) relating to county buisness..so cut the county a check for $1400.00 and we'll call it even.

Jonathan Sennett Makes It Official Thursday, Be There!

Jonathan Sennett will officially announce his candidacy for Ulster County District Attorney!

WHEN: Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 12 noon

(Expected duration is 20 minutes, with coffee and snacks to follow.)

WHERE: Ulster County Courthouse steps
285 Wall Street, Kingston NY 12401

Refreshments will be served at Hudson Coffee Traders, 288 Wall St. Kingston directly across from the Courthouse following the announcement.

Sennett brings extensive criminal justice experience and a strong commitment to public integrity to the campaign for Ulster County’s top prosecutor. Rain, snow or shine, Jon Sennett will publicly take his message to the people of Ulster County and make his case that he is the right candidate for the job. Jon Sennett intends to be the people’s DA.

Please make every effort to attend this event, no excuses! Let's get 100 people there, and make Holly Carnright squirm when he looks out his office window and realizes he will only be a one term DA!

Former Alderwoman DiBella Not Making A Comeback..yet

Former Alderwoman Anne Marie DiBella will not be running for Alderman or any other office this year. A number of people have told me that the former Alderwoman was considering a run for public office this year, not the case says DiBella, "the only running I will be doing, is the Shamrock run says DiBella.

I wouldn't mind seeing Ann Marie get back in the game and maybe in the future she will run for county legislature but I guess not in 2011.

Here and There

Mayor Sottile gave his last annual mayor's address of his tenure as Kingston's Mayor. I was in New York and being it was his last address, I took advantage of the Daily Freeman's live broadcasting of it.. I guess the best way to describe it would be Jersey Shore coming on a few hours early Thursday night..it was a train wreck.

Mayor Sottile had nothing new to say, didn't hit on any real accomplishments and talked about the same thing he does every year: Someday Kingston will have a great community for the arts, build a bandstand on the waterfront and they will come...yawn.

Thanks Jimmy, now go sit quietly in the corner for the next eight months and try not to make too much noise or mess anything up more than you already have.

-----

There has been a lot of focus on the Kingston Mayor's race and I thought it would be interesting to take an early look at the common council..who's running for reelection, what candidates may run ect.

Ward 1 Andi Turco Levin, will probably win reelection if she chooses to run although that ward is just waiting to go Democratic...if Alderwoman Turco Levin runs for Alderman at Large (which she says she wont) that ward will go Democratic.

Ward 2- Tom Hoffay seems pretty safe, and I have not heard of any candidates running yet. To be honest it's not often you get a great political mind like Hoffay that loves being Alderman and puts so much time and effort into it. Kingston is lucky to have Tom running the great Second Ward.

Ward 3- Charlie Landi is in good shape to keep his seat

Ward 4 Shirley Whitlock will easily win reelection with little challenge

Ward 5 Jen Fuentes has done a good job and I don't see her losing her reelection bid..

Ward 6 Ron Polacco probably will not run for reelection. It's fair to assume he will be running for another office...I see a Democratic pick up if Dems wise up and run Elisa Ball.

Ward 7 Bill Reynolds has served with distinction for many years as Alderman of Ward 7 and I see him moving up as well. I hear Frank Dart and Bill Berardi's names as possible candidates (both are Democrats), Mike Gill may run again on the gop line but who knows.

Ward 8- Robert Senor is not running for reelection from what I hear and that leaves Ward 8 wide open. Expect three to four people eyeing that seat.

Ward 9- I wish Hayes Clement great success on his reelection ;)

Speaking of Hayes Clement, he did win the poll I had up for mayor and clearly he is running but I just think it's too soon. Nothing personal against Hayes. I liked the picture Midhudsonnews.com ran on their website, you can see Shayne Gallo behind Mayor Sottile during his address to the city...coincidence? I don't know but Shayne looked like the next Mayor if you ask me.

Rich Cahill did well on the Republican side, polls are not scientific and we'll see how that primary goes.
------------------------------------------------------------
Comptroller Elliott Auerbach will investigate the more than 170 thousand dollars that was spent in confidential money that has been used over the last four years. This money is used to pay informants, set up stings ect.


Comptroller Auerbach is right to point this out especially in light of what happened with KPD recently. How money is given out, making sure safe guards are in place and an accounting of every dollar is very important, good to see Auerbach being proactive and a great watchdog of the peoples money.


Lastly tomorrow, I will be wearing Green and Yellow and rooting for Green Bay over Pittsburgh, although it will be tough to watch either team play at Texas Stadium, instead of the Cowboys ;/

Have a great weekend.

The Race of 2011: Hein v Quigley??

Rumor is Jim Quigley is actively looking at a run for County Executive against Democrat Mike Hein this November.

The first term Supervisor will have his hands full against the very popular Mike Hein, who has done all the right things and proved himself to have a top notch pr team that even Obama would be envious of.

However, Jim Quigley has the money, credentials and a good pr machine of his own. There was a little known legislator named Ed Mangano that was considered a long shot against my friend Tom Suozzi in Nassau county last year and Mangano pulled off the upset becoming Executive.

Quigley will have to overcome the 19% tax hike he proposed his first year and the 10% hike that actually passed in the town. By comparison Mike Hein proposed and passed a budget that had a zero percent increase.

For some insight on how serious Quigley is, he already has meetings set up with town Republican committees about running.

Letter in today's Freeman on Public Integrity

Dear Editor:

The recent controversy surrounding the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency is unrelated to the botched Ulster County Law Enforcement Center project, yet the citizens of this county see again a lack of accountability by the county Legislature.

Worse yet, we see inaction by the district attorney on a matter of public integrity.In the jail debacle, the Legislature immediately conducted a thorough probe and directed the district attorney to present the case to the grand jury.

In the RRA controversy, the District Attorney’s Office is purposefully avoiding the public integrity matter and instead investigating only issues of alleged weapons possession and/or sexual harassment and misconduct.

The citizens of Ulster County deserve better and should demand more. Public integrity should be a priority for our district attorney, even if it means stepping on some political toes. While we await action from the district attorney, our Legislature should conduct an open and thorough probe. Moreover, I agree with the proposal to place administrative responsibility for the RRA in the hands of the county executive.

JON SENNETT

Snooki Snubs Schumer?

He may be New York's senior Senator, but Chuck Schumer can't capture Snooki's attention even for an instant.A video shows the "Jersey Shore" star signing autographs for fans at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., when Schumer strolls by.

A cameraman excitedly tries to get Snooki to greet the Senator, but Nicole "Snooki" Polizz pays no attention to his requests. Schumer stands there for a while, waiting for some form of acknowledgment, and then, seemingly dejected, waves and walks off.

Daily Intel offers this account of what happens next:

A flustered cameraman asks Snooki if she knows her senator just passed by, and Snooki says, "Oh, really?" in the same utterly disinterested way that people respond to "I had such a weird dream last night."

Joe Misasi

In memoriam to my great Uncle Joe Misasi, who passed away Thursday at age 94. Uncle Joe was the nicest guy you will ever met, very involved with the community and with the VFW and would do anything for anybody. I wish I would of visted him more in recent years but he lived a great life and will be missed.

Kingston Mayor's Race: Noble Strongly Looking at a Run

Sources: Alderman at Large Noble Running for Mayor

Who's Running:

(Democrats) Jim Noble, Shayne Gallo, Hayes Clement, David Donaldson

(Republicans) Ron Polacco, Rich Cahill, Andi Turco Levin, Jean Jacobs

(Dark Horses that could emerge) Nick Woerner, Chris Koenig

Jim Noble has said publicly since Sottile made the decision to call it quits that he had little interest in running for mayor. Now it looks as if Noble has changed his tune, telling people close to him that he is running for Kingston Mayor.

What about Shayne? Shayne Gallo had previously stated he would run for mayor only if Noble did not, so with Noble gearing up to enter the Kingston Mayor's race what will Gallo do? There may come a point that Gallo is in too deep and forced to move forward with the race regardless of who runs, if this happens it will benefit freshman Alderman Hayes Clement.


Hayes Clement who represents Ward 9, is a good guy and an Alderman that has shown basic competency in his ward but in no way is he going to be Kingston's next mayor. Hayes is smart and has done all the right things to quickly establish himself as a rising star in Democratic politics, going to county functions (something Gallo and Noble have not done), throwing around money and hosting events for important Democrats, and establishing himself as a businessman that has the right skills and temperament to run the city.

Fact is though, we don't know what kind of Mayor Hayes would be, he has been on the political scene for all of 10 minutes and his candidacy is really a lot of hype by the political establishment. We do know Clement is a Conservative Democrat at best, some would say he is a Democrat in name only and I would be hard pressed to find anyone to call him Progressive.

Nick Woerner and Chris Koenig are both friends of mine and I think both would be strong candidates. If either run, the race would be wide open and really anyone's for the taking.

Out of the Democratic candidates running at this time, Kingston would be well served under Shayne Gallo or Jim Noble both have the experience and best intentions for Kingston. I honestly remain undecided on the two because they are both great, although I am leaning at this time toward Shayne Gallo.


On the Republican side there is a field of five candidates or so but the nomination will go to Ron Polacco or Richard Cahill. Democrats should be able to keep the office of mayor in 2011 unless Kingston Democrats put up a candidate like Hayes Clement who could lose to either one of them.

In the next two months the race for the respective nominations for both parties will heat up and we will have a better look at who's serious and who's not. No matter what, the mayor's race is something I'm looking forward. It's the first open seat for mayor in 23 years and will be fun to watch, stay tuned.

Roberti and Hein Haters Already Making Excuses

MoJOE Roberti has a huge post on his blog crushing over his favorite guy agian!! The former county legislator says on his blog that even if a strong Republican emerges that spends 300k on the county exec race, Hein would still win by 10 points.

In short, I agree.

Roberti claims the reason why Hein is unbeatable is that he controls the local media. You know, the typical Republican talking point about any Democrat.

It has nothing to do with the fact Mike Hein delivered a budget that didn't raise taxes, has made government more accountable to the people, the numerous victories and initiatives his office has brought forward that have improved the quality of life to county residents; including his most recent victory against the DEP.

Republicans are so desperate that Paul Hansit, the Majority Leader of the county legislature, is trying to convince Robin Yess to back Ultra Liberal Sue Zimet to run against Hein and Sue is all too eager for the opportunity.

I wish Ulster Republicans would just admit that Mike Hein is a good County Executive and has done a great job showing us that under the right leadership, government can work for the people.

Mayor Poll

I took down the poll for mayor because the poll had a malfunction. For some reason 100 votes were taken away from the Democratic poll and 50 from the Republican one. The percentages did not change, so I believe that this was just a malfunction with the poll itself. I will try another poll today...it works out because a new candidate is emerging for Mayor that will change the entire dynamic of the race.

Sweeney Not Running for Reelection

For the record, I like Mike, he's always been open and accessible, and even appeared on my tv show back in the day, him and Rich Parete would also invite me on their morning radio show every once in awhile. With him representing an area where Republicans will hold seats no matter what, I wouldn't mind him being one of them.

From his blog:

My Decision

Thanks to all those that took part in my completely unscientific poll. The vote ended up being 60 (yes, run) to 9 (no, don't run).

Before I get to my decision, I wanted to touch upon the attendance records for the Ulster County Legislature. It was a much better year for attendance, which was good.

I managed to make every Legislature meeting plus every committee meeting (of the committees I belong to). Truth be told, I got credit for attending 2 committee meetings even though I was only there for about 15 minutes for each one. For one of the public hearings, I walked in about 30 seconds before the meeting was dismissed.

In fairness, it was one of those public hearings that lasts about 90 seconds... as many of the public hearings do. When no one shows up to speak, the meeting dismisses and everyone goes home. Just keeping it honest, as you deserve it from all of your elected officials.

Now, onto my decision on whether to run for another term. Let me begin by saying thank you to all that have voiced their support for me in recent weeks, via the poll, phone, facebook and emails. I even got a phone call from a man that used to live in Ulster County, but is now living in the State of Delaware.

Everyone was very supportive of me, so I say thank you.I have decided not to run for another term. While I'll leave the possibility open that I'll change my mind, I feel that 2 years is enough, at least for now. I'm looking forward to working closely with members of the Legislature to bring some positive changes in the next year.

Maybe we'll even get term limits passed? Time will tell.Thanks again for your support--and thanks for reading.

Mike

Coming this afternoon: A look at the Kingston Mayor's Race

Here and There

Keller out as Chief?

The KPD scandal involving Tim Matthews has shocked Kingston and there will be a lot more on this in the next few months when the state attorney general and comptroller release their investigation, which is expected to show the top Detective as head of security for Kingston high school was double dipping.

Rumblings at City Hall say Police Chief Jerry Keller could be forced out due to "lack of oversight." Forcing Keller to retire is a mistake, he is a great public servant, honest as the day is long and really it's not his responsibility to be the school district's book keeper. Some argue Keller is too laid back and again I disagree. The role of the police chief, requires Keller to wear several hats, in public Keller does come across like more of a politician than a police chief.

However the FBI trained Chief, is as tough as nails and does a great job running KPD and making sure the department runs smoothly and efficiently. Chief Keller should retire when he is ready on his own terms.
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John Guerin ended his week long campaign for Mayor. Mr. Guerin decided his business would take too much of a negative hit for the run. Good to hear, I like Mr. Guerin and was not looking forward to attacking him on the blog for the next six months. ;~)

Rich Parete announced he would not seek reelection for another term on the legislature. No real surprise, Rich has made it clear for some time that he wanted to retire. Rich who usually leads the ticket over his brother Rob, and Roy Hochberg (Kraft before Hochberg), would of easily kept his seat. I wish Rich Parete the best and I would suspect he stays active, even running for a higher office in the future.



Speaking of Rob Parete, it was mistakenly reported in recent attendance audit that his legislative committee attendance was as low as 10%, the real number is well over 95% and the mistake has been corrected.


Jonathan Sennett is having a fundraiser, Wednesday February 9th 530pm at Hillside Manor to kick off his campaign for Ulster County District Attorney, tickets are $75. Please attend this event and take part of an exciting campaign for the next D.A. of Ulster County.

Top Kingston Detective Suspended After NYS Comptroller Audit

Lt. Tim Matthews

UPDATE:

Lt. Matthews charged with felony Grand Larceny, the 9,000 allegedly stolen is rumored to be out of a department safe and seperate from the payroll probe.

D.A. Carnright: Gray day for all of us involved in law enforcement.

Detective Matthews remains on a leave of absence with pay.

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Sources in the KPD, tell me Deputy Chief John Wallace sent out an e-mail to officers informing them that Detective Tim Matthews, had been suspended and he would cover his cases in the immediate future. Others have told me Matthews chose to take a leave of absence and plans to resign.

This whole mess stems from an audit done by the NYS Comptroller, allegedly Matthews was claiming hours simultaneously in his capacity as a kpd officer and head of school security. The officer that I spoke with would not say how many hours were involved or a dollar amount, he would just say, "you can't be at two places at once."

Detective Matthews is a stand up guy, I will always remember when the Freeman did a piece a few years ago on the anniversary of Rickel Knox's death, Matthews was talking about having to bring the killer to these railroad tracks to show him where he left her body. This Detective has worked on every major case in Kingston and Ulster County in the last ten years and is someone I respect, this is a sad day for Kingston.

As all the details of this come out, we need to remember everything this guy has done to make Kingston a better and safer place. Ask yourself, does one transgression wipe away an entire career dedicated to public service? I stand behind Detective Matthews and ask members of the community to support him as well and give him the benefit of the doubt. The Kingston Police department has civilian police commission, I believe they handle all personal matters, residents should call in support of Lt. Matthews and go to the next commission meeting. More to follow.

Sexism, Good ol' Boy Politics and Possible Corruption Rocks Legislature

Chairman Fred Wadnola

If you challenge the King you better beat him or suffer the consequences. That is the way it goes in politics, whether you are running for School board president, county chair or speaker of the house. Honestly I don't have a problem with that, an elected official in a leadership post represents not just his constituents but his/her colleagues and needs to show strength not weakness, rules of survival.

That is not the case of what happened with the retaliation of replacing Brian Shapiro over Terry Bernardo as chair of the Government Operations and Efficiency committee. Yesterday, I got four calls from Republican legislators within two hrs of a post I did on this yesterday; I also called some people myself and it just amazes me how upset these lawmakers are and how deep this RRA nonsense runs.

First let's get some background:

1. Many members of the majority have been upset with Fred Wadnola and the leadership in the party, that is pretty clear when you have Mike Sweeney threatening to bolt the caucus and giving us accounts that people in leadership were flat out told him to shut up and sit down and than there is Laura Petit who actually said enough is enough and left the party.

2. The RRA is a mess I think what we have heard is just the tip of the iceberg on what we will find out in the coming weeks and months, including an $800 dinner the rra had a little restaurant in the town of Ulster called Fred's place, while Wadnola was on the board, among other frivolous expenses...there are major players involved and there are people in my opinion that wish this entire thing would just go away.

3. Kevin Roberts a former chairman of the RRA, is the head of the committee that oversees the RRA and has been one of it's biggest defenders. At some point last year Roberts decided that he didn't want to chair the committee anymore (which who could blame him) and Chairman Wadnola offered it to Legislator Terry Bernardo, who went to the last meeting and was introduced by Kevin Roberts at the meeting as the incoming chair.

From what I hear, members, employees, and people with close knowledge to the rra called Legislator Bernardo and confided some information to her, including audio tapes that Terry was ethically obligated to turn over to legislative attorneys. Shortly after that Chairman Wadnola (also a former rra member) and Robin Yess decided that Terry should stay were she is at as chair of the gov opper comm and Roberts would keep the rra..these people really have no shame at all!

4. Meanwhile, Fred was still upsetting certain members of his caucus and talks of replacing him were discussed, Terry Bernardo is asked and recruited to run, she never announces her candidacy or actively seeks the office. Terry instead meets with former Chairman and veteran lawmaker Rich Gerentine to try and find a way to bring everyone together. Gerintine has a talk with Wadnola and some issues get resolved..no one challenges Fred for the chairmanship and he is reelected.

5. Little did Gerentine know, Fred Wadnola decided in late December with Majority Leader Paul Hansit that they would replace Terry as chair of the government efficiencies committee but decide for obvious reasons to them, not to tell her. "Fred Wadnola wanted a little pay back and bullied leadership in to keeping their mouths shut, he wanted Terry to find out in the press" a lawmaker told me asking his name not be used.

Really this is not just about getting back at Legislator Bernardo, Bernardo was not running for chair, she was raising a red flag like Bonacic did when he had reservations about Joe Bruno, and he was right. This is about a deeper cover up with the rra and a power struggle between the old guard of the legislature, that is used to a certian way of doing buisness and the new that refuses to accept the good ol' boy politics of the past.

Several times during conversations with Legislator Bernardo, Wadnola has tried to put her and other legislators in their place, at one instance Wadnola said to Bernardo "Listen here, young lady", Really? Are you kidding me????? I wish Wadnola would say that to someone like Shirley Whitlock, who would of knocked him out. But really, How dare Fred Wadnola address anyone like that, it's completely inappropriate, demeaning and just out of line to address a colleague like that. Especially one that the Chairman might be able to learn something from.

It's going to be an interesting year and if there is anything good that came out of all of this, it is the fact that Wadnola in appointing Shapiro (a progressive Democrat) to chair a committee that is designed to oversee and come up with ways to make government more efficient, he's admitting he thinks Democrats are the most qualified to find these answers. I hope when election time comes the general public will agree and return Democrats to the majority. Which shouldn't be too difficult because I think a lot of Republicans in key districts will be without the Independence line in 20111. Hey, that's politics and if your gunna challenge the Indy chair's wife....

Wadnola Makes Shapiro Chair of Gov Oper Committee Over Bernardo

Chairman Fred Wadnola ousted Terry Bernardo as chair of the government operations committee and named Democrat Brian Shapiro as the new committee chair. Terry who considered a run for chair herself graciously backed off her run in an effort to heal her party. This is a sleazy move by Fred but is consistent with his hatred of women in positions of authority. More on this when I have more information.

Ghetto Guerin Mulls Run for Kingston Mayor

Former Assemblyman John Guerin

Full story tonight : Freeman Article here

John Guerin announced yesterday if the stars "align for him", he will run for Kingston Mayor. Mr. Guerin is a shroud guy, bright, charismatic, a little arrogant but well respected in Republican circles. His candidacy would give the Republican party a real shot at winning back the mayor's office.

In my humble opinion, I don't see Mr.Guerin running at the end of the day, his name is always thrown around as running for office, and the final result is always someone saying: John (a very wealthy Kingston businessman) just won't take the pay cut. This candidacy is brought on by Guerin wanting a little attention and giving himself an opportunity to test the waters for the office he really wants to run for, Ulster county executive.

While I think the town of Ulster resident won't run, his candidacy would be interesting. Certainly if he runs it looks like he has a clear path to the nomination, Kingston Republicans thinking of running now, know that if Guerin is in, they are pretty much out. Guerin is known to be outspoken, almost to Carl Palidino levels, right off the gate, Guerin is in the paper talking about how Midtown Kingston is one big ghetto. I am sure there are plenty of more of those great inspirational quotes to come if Guerin runs, stay tuned.

President Obama gave the best speech I have ever heard in my life last night. It was so moving and really started the healing process for the victims of Arizona. I really encourage people to watch the video. I think every American that watched across the country last night was proud of their President.

Key Bank in Kingston Robbed

The Key bank in Kingston was robbed, still no word if Mayor Sottile is blaming the police for the robbery..will keep you updated ;~)

Recent Ellenville Audit Shows Auerbach Was Right to Blow Whistle

Our hat comes off to Ulster County Coptroller Elliott Auerbach, a recent audit of the Village of Ellenville raised a few red flags on some of the financial practices of the Village by NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.

Elliott Auerbach, the Village manager at the time, blew the whistle on this whole mess, after noticing discrepancies from the village treasurer's office (the treasure is the chief fiscal officer) he reported them to the village board who did nothing about it.

The Village boards response or lack thereof promoted Auerbach to call for the NYS Comptroller's audit. Good to see that Elliott Auerbach was blowing the whistle on waste fraud and abuse long before he became the watchdog of Ulster County.

Reynolds gets it; Sennett Looking Strong to be next DA

Hugh Reynolds on the District Attorney's Race:



Republican district attorney Holley Carnright of Saugerties came into office three years ago under a cloud, inheriting the too-long-delayed and underfunded grand-jury investigation on the jail from Don Williams. Under those conditions, that Carnright produced virtually nothing was surely no surprise. But, Republicans, after activist DAs like Williams (now a county judge) and appellate judge Mike Kavanagh, probably expected more than a nine-to-five low-profile chief prosecutor who shunned so-called “political cases.”Both sides believe this office in play.

Politicians, like generals, tend to fight the last battle. It is not lost on anyone that Carnright polled 46 percent of the vote in the 2007 three-way race with Democrat Jonathan Sennett of New Paltz and now Democrat, Vince Bradley Jr. of Kingston running on the Conservative and Independence lines. Unspectacular, steady Carnright, the minority DA, is the GOP’s best hope. And that speaks volumes.

Sennett, assiduously courting Democratic support for the last three years, should be his party’s standard-bearer. The only real “outsider” three years ago, he could, with some tweaking of out-of-step leftish tendencies, be a formidable candidate in a one-on-one race this time.

Cahill Legislation Would Provide Property Tax Reform

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill (D–Kingston) introduced two pieces of legislation Thursday aimed at improving public education and lowering real property taxes for the residents of New York. His bills focus on modernizing the education system while easing, and subsequently eliminating, the burden of rising, regressive property taxes as a means of funding.

“We must take transformative actions if we are ever truly going to get a handle on the property tax crisis that is crippling our state,” said Cahill. “A property tax cap by itself will not solve the problem. We need to give our schools the tools they need to actually start cutting costs without sacrificing the quality of our children’s education.”

The 21st Century Schools Act is designed to curb school spending through shared services and consolidation by maximizing the utilization of BOCES and increase cooperative participation, using expanded regional approaches to pay for bigger ticket items like transportation, special education and health care. The measure also calls for a complete reexamination of school district lines in order to more efficiently deliver services to school districts. The legislation would create an implementation board modeled after the successful Commission on Health Care Facilities, better known as the Berger Commission. The panel would assure the goals of modernization, educational excellence, efficiency and cost reduction.

The Equity in Education Act would shift away from, and ultimately eliminate, the use of locally raised revenue, including real property taxes for the purposes of funding education. Cahill said this bill is based on the commitment that it is the state's responsibility to ensure that every child, everywhere in New York, has an equal right to a quality education regardless of where they live or the level of their family's income. The bill would phase out school property taxes and replace them with a progressive education income tax surcharge.

53% Say Sottile is doing a Good Job

Outgoing Mayor Jim Sottile gets a thumbs up on his job performance according to a recent poll on the blog. 53% say they approve of hiz honor's job performance. The poll is not scientific of course, with the Mayor's actual numbers probably in the mid 20's or so.

Chairman Wadnola, Where is the Transparency?

What up with Chairman Fred Wadnola canceling all the committee meetings for the month of January? It's suspicious with an ongoing investigation of the RRA, that Chairman Wadnola is doing this, Wadnola a former board member of the RRA, is widely expected to be criticized to say the least for his handling of this whole mess, the timing is suspect.

Putting that aside, what is the reason for canceling County business the first month of 2011, when there is so much work to be done???

I hear a month long vacation in Florida is one of the reasons..which is unacceptable, can you imagine if Mike Hein or a Democrat did that?

This does not look good, with the Republicans all but guaranteed to lose the County Executive race next year do they really want to lose the legislature without a fight too? With the GOP caucus losing members and others talking about starting their own caucus/coalition government, maybe it's a good time the legislature look at a new chair...just sayin'.

Mayor and Minority Leader Agree on Attacking KPD

Kingston Police Chief Jerry Keller

Kingston Mayor Jim Sottile and Minority Leader Andi Turco Levin agree on blaming the Kingston Police department for a recent shooting that happened at an illegal night club in Kingston's midtown.


“Three hundred (patrons) knew about this (party),” Sottile said. “I think we need to fine tune our intel operations. I think that this slipped through the cracks and I hope we don’t have any more slip through the cracks.”

Sottile added, “How is something of this magnitude done in secrecy?

“I mean, a group of 300 people can go to an illegal setting undetected,” Sottile said. “That certainly concerns me. ... Where is our intel at this organization (the police department).”

Council Minority Leader echoed Sottile's comments:

“I would have to agree with him that they should have been a lot more proactive in finding out what was going on,” Turco-Levin said.

Turco-Levin pointed out the party was announced on the Facebook page of the Newburgh-based Street Cannibals motorcycle club.


Wow! I have not heard comments that stupid and short sided in sometime.

I am glad the city of Kingston police department has the confidence of the mayor and the council Minority, way to boost the moral. The mayor really should be praising Chief Keller and Det. Matthews for arresting the people involved so swiftly not attacking them for not being proactive enough. They are not psychics they can't predict a shooting will occur.

Furthermore, Sottile has real nerve to complain about KPD not knowing what's going on, when he attempted to fire police officers and cut the force and limit their resources. Maybe if the KPD didn't have to fight to save their jobs, they could have been out preventing these crimes from occurring as hiz honor suggests.

Police Chief Jerry Keller runs a fine department that does an excellent job keeping Kingstonians and visitors to Kingston safe, the Mayor of our city should not be attacking the department and if Jim Sottile has legitimate concerns he should bring it up at the police commission meeting, (a commission that he is in charge of) not beating his chest in the Daily Freeman.

Comptroller Auerbach Sworn in for New Term

Informative Read: County Legislator Mike Sweeney

Legislator Sweeney is just the best, didn't think I would ever say that about a Conservative but during his time on the legislature, Sweeney has proven time and time again that he gets it. It's a shame he is choosing not to run for reelection but after you read what he has to go through with the County Republican party who can blame him???



Read Legislator Sweeney's latest blog by clicking this link

Here is an excerpt:


For the past several days, I have been contemplating leaving the Republican Caucus and forming a new Caucus with the idea of increasing transparency. In my past year of service, I've noticed that the Legislature is basically a "rubber stamp Legislature", meaning there is no real discussion about much--everything just passes.

I've also found that there is very little difference between the two Caucuses, which is why most votes pass unanimously, with maybe a handful of dissenters on occasion.Recently, I was very strongly urged to NOT fight for the tax cut that I fought for. That person has to understand that I am at the service of the people of Ulster County... the taxpayers, NOT the caucus.

Pictures from Governor Cuomo's Day One

This is probably my favorite shot of Andrew Cuomo ever! He looks so presidential, and look at that suit hes got on..nice!

Welcome Governor!

Andrew orders the removal of the barricades on state street, and promises more access to the second floor!

Governor Andrew Cuomo's first press conference.


Here are some picture from Governor Cuomo's swearing in today. Photos are courtesy of Dan Torres, who was a Blaber News correspondent for the day :~). I want to thank Mr.Torres who was nice enough to do me a huge favor and went and took great pictures from the inauguration, above are a few..the one of Cuomo coming down the stairs is by far my favorite picture of Andrew Cuomo. (btw- Look at John Milgrim in that photo (left side, red tie) and the one at the press conference, congrats my friend, you're in the big leagues!!!!)

The Governor's message today was great and I think he will be a very succesful Governor.

Wow, not wasting anytime...looks good to see it in print.