Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all and to all have a great night. We will see all the grandkids tomorrow! A great day in the North Country.  Then we can start looking to the New Year.  Be careful and think before you react, kindness is not a weakness but a virtue!

Journal:Lights on the River has more lights than ever

DO NOT miss the Lights on the River, it was very stunning last year and is only getting better. With a 50% increase in displays from last year it is a great time for the FAMILY and it raises money for the local food pantry.

Lights on the River

 

Journal:Rules on minority-, woman-owned businesses frustrate Ogdensburg authority

Twenty percent of business to MWBEs (minority- or woman-owned businesses enterprises) is not my idea of leveling the playing field. The amount is disproportional to the number of these businesses and gives them an unfair advantage. Many times the prices are higher and your still forced to purchase these items.

Many companies bid state contracts getting the best bang for your buck, then you introduce MWBEs and saving money is not the objective.

MWBEs

Journal:Ogdensburg raids funds to reduce tax levy increase, passes budget

Mr. Cosmo, Not a bad job by council!  Hopefully this will get us by until we can push our legislators for sales tax increase or at least pass a law giving local government the ability to increase sales tax.

3.25 percent increase.

Journal:Rape dismissal takes on political tone

This could be a career killer. 

"In court, Assistant District Attorney Amanda N. Nissen said the DA’s office had never received the case file. The judge then granted the defense motion.

What a way to lose a case, appears to be little organization along with very little litigation in District Attorney's Office by Nicole M. Duvé. Massena Police Chief Timmy J. Currier said the file was sent to the DA's office and they have proof. 

There are many victums in this outcome, mostly the 14 year old girl.

Nicole M. Duvé

Journal:Ogdensburg comptroller says council’s budget goal far-fetched

If the council is to reach the lowest tax increase as possible, hopefully below the cap, the council will need cooperation from all. City Comptroller Philip A. Cosmo has become a naysayer to the council's effort. One would think he would publicly support their position and try not to undermined or demoralize any effort by publicly speaking out against their efforts.

Ethically should Mr. Cosmo speak out against Council as an employee of the City. 

I like the idea that everything is on the table and that the sacred cows are not preserved because of their size. Whenever we talk police and fire we are scared into submission. The sheriff patrol was preserved and 95% of their time is spent transporting prisoners.

City Council is "talking the talk", time will tell if they can "walk the walk".

Journal:Remington holiday gala a volunteer effort

Time for the annual Remington Gala it will be December 8th with guaranteed fun for all. The Gala is classy event and is one of the biggest fund raisers for the Remington Museum.

There will be shopping, food, drink, music, and dancing for all. If you have not attended the Gala this should be your first year. Missed one a few years ago but I hope to see some new faces there.

Journal Gala

Journal:Ogdensburg comptroller says council’s budget goal far-fetched

It appears the council is looking for every means to stay under the 2% tax increase. Hats off to the councilors that believe that is possible.

We should be looking to our State Senator and Assemblyperson to carry the increase in sales tax. The properties owners bare the burden and at this point and it is forcing people to sell their homes and move out of NYS.

Journal taxes

Journal:New Ogdensburg Vietnam memorial commemorates St. Lawrence County’s sacrifice

Just a reminder that many men have died for our freedom.

Journal:Ogdensburg zoning map overhaul continues

What is the City's final goal?  Who will gain and who will be the losers?
This is a tough job and hopefully it will work well with the land owners in town.

Journal:Chamber declares Ogtoberfest a success

It was windy day and the Seaway Jumpers had their bouncy houses set up. The kids were going crazy, not effected by the cold and wind. Just across the way venders were displaying wine, beer, and crafts while the band played. It was a good time, I would go again. Good job to those that organized the event.

Journal Octoberfest

North Country Public Radio:GOP gains a Democrat in NYS Senate

We seen what the democrats did the last time they controlled the Senate. The majority of democrats are from NYC and have shown their bias for their area. Many of the jails were closed North of the throughway and we may see it again. Time will tell what riff will come from this but some of the Democrats North of the City are aligning themselves with the Republicans.

Hold on!

Senate on Hold

Journal:Sen. Patricia Ritchie retains the 48th district

This was an easy win for the Senator, indicating the voters are looking for tax relief and a control on unfunded mandates. Unfunded mandates, economic growth, and balancing budgets will be the next hurtle.

Mrs. Ritchie has a strong support group with her many family, friends and her staff; that started when she run for County Clerk against S. Teele, county legislator. Her supporters are sedulous and assiduous workers and they are a force to reckon with. Good job, Senator Ritchie!

Hats off to Ms. Tresidder for running a good campaign. A challenge is always good and keeps the incumbent on their toes.

Journal 48 district RITCHIE

Journal:Canton man charged five hours after release from jail

Two good things came from this arrest:
        No one was killed by this crazzy drunk
        and he is back behind bars.

Journal Discharged and Drunk

Big Vote for Tomorrow!

Everyone should get out and vote tomorrow. The balance of the country is in the hands of the voters. Voting is a right many Americans take for granted, many have died to preserve this right.

Mitt Romney    or    Barack Obama
Matt Doneny    or    Bill Ownes
Patty Ritchie    or    Amy Tresidder

I am hoping for a couple of changes this election year, but continue to support Senator Ritchie.  As a freshman senator she has done well and will be that much stronger next year.