Friday, June 28, 2013

Upstate Summer Girl

An original song and video by Annie In The Water:

These guys have oodles and oodles of talent and they are as local as you can get!  Annie In the Water are Brad Hester, Michael Lashomb, and Matt Davis.  This is the song for summer of 2013.... listen and dig it!


Thursday, June 27, 2013

Skipper "N" Clipper

Clayton New York:

Every time I see or hear "Skipper, all I can think of is Gilligan's Island...the 3 hour tour on the Minnow where the group becomes castaways on a deserted island...

Something New. Every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30,  Clayton Island Tours offers a cruise on the St. Lawrence River with appetizers from the Clipper Inn Restaurant all for a bargain price of $30 per adult.  It gets better... you can bring your own beverage, including beer or wine.



Last Nights Apps:
Salmon Mousse on Cucumbers
Pork Tenderloin with Horseradish Sauce
Shrimp with Mango Chutney in Filo Cups
Cheese/Crackers/Pepperoni
Bruschetta with Crustini's
Hummus & Chips
Boursin Stuffed Mushrooms
Spinach & Cheese Pinwheels












Last Nights Sunset




Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Deceit And Negative Controversy

The following is a commentary by David Bain, Town of Alexandria Highway Superintendent

ENOUGH! ENOUGH! ENOUGH!

I’M WRITING THIS LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF THE TOWN OF ALEXANDRIA. ENOUGH OF THIS INFORMATION CONSISTING OF LIES AND HALF TRUTHS. I'VE LIVED IN THIS TOWN MY WHOLE LIFE AND EVEN BEING INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS, I HAVE NEVER HEARD OR SEEN SUCH DECEIT AND NEGATIVE CONTROVERSY CONCERNING OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND POLITICAL CAMPAIGNING. I HAVE ALWAYS TRIED TO BE FAIR TO BOTH THE TAXPAYERS I SERVE AS WELL AS MY EMPLOYEES. I HAVE ALWAYS STOOD BEHIND MY CREWS IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. FOR THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS, THE LIES AND NEGATIVE COMMENTS BOTH ON THE INTERNET AND STREETS CONCERNING MY ELECTED POSITION, DUTIES, BENEFITS AND CHARACTER HAVE BEEN UNDER FIRE. NORMALLY I WOULD JUST LET THESE ACCUSATIONS RUN THEIR COURSE, BUT RECENTLY THEY HAVE GOTTEN COMPLETELY OUT OF HAND! 

HERE’S THE FACTS! ALL THIS NEGATIVE PUBLIC GARBAGE HAS EFFECTED MY ELECTED POSITION BOTH WITH THE PUBLIC AND THE HIGHWAY CREW. THERE ARE TWO HIGHWAY EMPLOYEES RUNNING FOR MY OFFICE, ANDY DAVIS AND JERRY DURAND. ANDY INFORMS ME THAT HIS REASON IS TO “BLOCK JERRY DURAND FROM BEING ELECTED” AS JERRY’S REASON I’M TOLD IS “BECAUSE HE WAS APPROACHED SOMETIME AGO TO RUN”. ALTHOUGH I UNDERSTAND ANY ONE MAY CHOOSE TO RUN FOR OFFICE AND I CERTAINLY HAVE NO PROBLEM WITH THAT, I REALLY FEEL THAT ANY EMPLOYEE THAT CHOOSES TO RUN AGAINST ME IS, AT THE VERY LEAST, DISRESPECTFUL WHEN I HIRED THEM AND HAVE TREATED THEM FAIR AND WITH RESPECT! BOTH OF THESE EMPLOYEES IN MY OPINION ARE GOOD EMPLOYEES AND PERFORM THEIR DAILY DUTIES VERY WELL. BECAUSE OF ALL THE DECEPTION CONCERNING THE REPUBLICAN PARTY (SOME CERTAINLY JUSTIFIED!), SOME OF MY EMPLOYEES HAVE CHOSE TO TURN AGAINST ME! I AM TOLD THEIR MAIN REASON IS BECAUSE THEY FEEL I HAVE SOME HOW LET THEM DOWN BY HAVING RETIREMENT HEALTH CARE BETTER THAN WHAT THEY RECEIVE. 

WELL HERE’S THE BREAKDOWN; UNDER “LOCAL LAW # 2” WHEN I RETIRE DEPENDING ON MY YEARS OF SERVICE AND AGE, I WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE HEALTH CARE UNDER A DIFFERENT POLICY (NOT THE EXISTING POLICY) BY THE TOWN AND MY COVERAGE WOULD CONSIST OF A SINGLE PLAN OF WHICH I WOULD CONTRIBUTE 15% AT TWENTY YEARS OF SERVICE DOWN TO 5% WITH THIRTY OR MORE YEARS OF SERVICE, AT AGE 65 IF I AM NOT STILL EMPLOYED BY THE TOWN I WILL BE UNDER MEDICARE AS MY PRIMARY COVERAGE AND UNDER A SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE THAT I MUST PURCHASE IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THE TOWN’S PERCENTAGE REIMBURSEMENT BASED AGAIN ON MY YEARS OF SERVICE. RIGHT NOW MY HEALTHCARE TOTAL COST IS $8,091.00; I CONTRIBUTE 10% AND COPAY WHATEVER THE POLICY DOESN'T COVER. THE HIGHWAY EMPLOYEES UNDER THE TEAMSTER CONTRACT RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING: FAMILY PLAN-$26,625.52 PR. YR., 2 PERSON PLAN-$19,321.64 AND SINGLE PLAN-$9,999.08. ALL THE EMPLOYEES CONTRIBUTE 10% COPAY AND PAY ANY AMOUNT NOT COVERED UNDER THE INSURANCE. AT THEIR TIME OF RETIREMENT, EACH EMPLOYEE WILL RECEIVE $450.00 TO $750.00 PER MONTH FROM THE TOWN TOWARDS THEIR PURCHASED HEALTHCARE PLAN BASED ON THEIR YEARS OF SERVICE, MIN OF 20 YEARS. EACH EMPLOYEE WILL ALSO HAVE A CHOICE OF BANKING ACCRUED HOURS OF SICK TIME TO OFFSET THEIR HEALTHCARE TO AGE 65 OR RECEIVE PAYMENT OF THEIR TOTAL ACCRUED SICK TIME AT THE TIME OF THEIR RETIREMENT. 

 IN MY OPINION I FEEL ALL FULL TIME EMPLOYEES SHOULD RECEIVE HEALTHCARE AND I KNOW THE FULL TIME EMPLOYEES HAVE NO PROBLEM CONTRIBUTING TO THEIR PLANS, BUT I CERTAINLY FEEL, AS THEY DO, THAT THE PART TIME EMPLOYEES SHOULD NOT RECEIVE THE SAME BENEFITS. UNDERSTAND THAT THE PART TIME EMPLOYEES RECEIVE THE SAME HEALTHCARE AS THE FULL TIME. I FEEL THAT ALL PART TIME EMPLOYEES SHOULD AT THE VERY LEAST, ONLY RECEIVE THE SINGLE PLAN AND OR CONTRIBUTE A HIGHER PERCENTAGE TOWARDS THEIR BENEFIT. I AM DEEPLY CONCERNED ABOUT LOCAL POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTS INVOLVING MY OFFICE AS WELL AS MY EMPLOYEES. WE HAVE ALL WORKED HARD TO PERFORM OUR DUTIES AND WITH ALL THIS POLITICAL CHAOS GOING ON, IT HAS CAUSED DISRESPECT AND DECEIT AGAINST MY ELECTED OFFICE AND OUR DEDICATED EMPLOYEES. THIS TOWNSHIP DESERVES BETTER! I AM RESPECTIVELY REQUESTING YOUR SUPPORT FOR THIS LAST TERM IN OFFICE AND A POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS OUR EMPLOYEES.

SINCERELY,
DAVID H. BAIN

Saturday, June 22, 2013

The Flame...

Summer is here, finally!  It is always nice to spend time outside.  Last night I lit some candles and my favorite lantern, maybe a little to soon..... the sun had not set yet and its light over powered the flames.  So I waited and watched.....


Thursday, June 20, 2013

Big Biker Weekend

Alexandria Bay:

Full Back Design
I know that Bikers do not have a lot or room on their rigs to take souvenirs home with them.  Always room for a T or Muscle Shirt.  I already grabbed one ....... I got this one from the New York Shirt Company located on James St.  Professional Design on a Quality Shirt..... SHARP!


Front Breast Design

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Summer Sailing ABM

Don't Miss A Thing

SAIL INTO THE ABM THIS SUMMER

CLAYTON, New York (June 19, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today its summer sailing programs for 2013.

Beginning on Tuesday, June 25, the ABM will kick-off its popular Tuesday Night Sailing & Rowing program. This free weekly event takes place June 25 through August 13 and begins at 5:30 p.m.

This program is open to the public and to those of all ages. No sailing experience is required. The ABM staff will be on hand to assist those in need of coaching or desire an experienced sailing partner.

Not interested in sailing, then give skiff rowing a try. St. Lawrence Skiff rowing is free daily at the Museum with paid admission, in addition to the Tuesday evening events.

Also, the ABM will host a wide-range of sailing courses throughout the summer including adult, junior, teen, and advanced courses. Courses run throughout July and August. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. For more information or to check availability, contact Julie Broadbent at 315-686-4104 ext 235.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. This August, the Museum will host the 49th annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running show in North America. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

Monday, June 17, 2013

Calling All Student Artists

Via Bay House Artisans Facebook page

New this season, Bay House Artisans, 21 James St., Alexandria Bay is planning a student art gallery for high school and college students from local schools. They are invited to show up to 3 pieces of their work both 2D and 3D. If their work is 2D it needs to be matted and ready for hanging. The price needs to be displayed. All works need to be approved by the Bay House Jury committee before displaying. Each piece will need identification cards including the student’s name, school name, medium, the name of the piece and price. The piece/s will be displayed throughout the season and students are invited to change out work with the approval of the jury. To receive more information and/or to drop off work for jurying contact 315-778-5968 or 315-783-5079.

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Lately I Have Been Thinking

Well lately
I look around
I am wondering what I am doing
Yeah lately
I look around
I am wondering what I am seeing
What I am doing




Saturday, June 15, 2013

Memories Of My Dad

Fathers Day Reflections:

My grandfather Walter aka The Boss started the Cummings Funeral Home longer ago than I can remember. I do remember my dad telling me what The Boss told him, that an Undertaker/Funeral Director must never ripple the waters, and be friends with everyone.  Funeral Directors  should join as many community organizations as possible and remain neutral.  Most undertakers heed this advice including my cousin, but sadly there are a few that do not....

My dad was an undertaker for several years and then WWII came along and he joined the army and became a fighter pilot.  After his tour he returned home to help with the family business.  He eventually moved on and became the GM for Pittsburgh Plate Glass located on Factory St.  My dad heeded The Bosses advice about remaining neutral until he retired in the early '80s.  It was at that time that my dad became a frequent writer of letters to the editor.

I guess if you plant tomatoes, you get tomatoes.

Happy Fathers day to my Dad and to all of his friends..... I hope you are all playing a Fathers Day round or two of golf up above....



Thursday, June 13, 2013

An Amusing Letter

The Ring Master hits the Letter to the Editor section of the Sun!

Yes I voiced an opinion at the May 8th Town Of Alexandria meeting stating that the seat had been vacant for to long and that it was getting to close to the November Election.  Therefore the seat should remain vacant so the people in this community could vote for their choice. Mr. Thomson respectfully disagreed with me and the other person that spoke up that shared my opinion.


The Poll that my critic referred to in his letter was clearly described by me as subject to error and  for entertainment purposes only.  Of the five choices on the poll, the #2 highest vote getter was: leave the seat vacant till November.  The 4 members on the board have been deadlocked, neither Beaudin and Williams, nor Sweet and Hunneyman were going to budge.  The only outcome?  Leave the seat vacant.


Not sure how my critic twisted the #2 highest vote getter into something less than #1.  He makes it sound like I was saying that our town is not #1. Which was not the case. Either way, we all had our own opinions as to what should be done with that vacant seat.  Because the Town Board was split and not willing to concede , I guess you could say that the 28 people that voted for "Leave It Vacant" won by default.


Audio From the May 8th Town Meeting Can Be Found Here

And the other critics of the circus say that nobody reads my blog.... Evidently quite a few are, otherwise why would I get elevated to warrant a Letter To The Editor...
I am moving on to my next story, some citizens are up in arms about Horse Poop and Chicken Chitz.... now there is a story I can really sink my teeth into....... stay tuned.....

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Draw Your Own Conclusions

Town Of Alexandria:

The flyer below was handed to me tonight and I asked if it was ok for me share this on my blog.  The nod was given, so go ahead and read it and give it some thought.  A word of warning.... On the back of this flyer was the  premium due for participants that are covered under the NYS Teamsters Health and Hospital funds reported for the month of April 2013.  Sensitive information was redacted, but names were listed with only the total premium due listed.  I decided not to scan the back side, my thoughts being, that my only obligation is to you is make you aware that this flyer exists.

The front of the flyer named two former town officials.  I redacted both those names....for the same reason as I stated above.  The most important part is that you read the flyer, and if it peaks your curiosity, then do what the group asks.... attend the next Town Board Meeting, tomorrow night [6/12/13] @ 6PM.

Click To Enlarge

Saturday, June 8, 2013

The Barrel Family

Alexandria Bay:

Recently, Betty and Buford Barrel stopped by for a visit.  We had such a good time together, that I suggested they bring the whole family on their next stop over.  They did.....





Friday, June 7, 2013

Citizens Of The Year- Alex Bay



Below are 3 videos from this years Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce event hosted at the Bonnie Castle Resort and Marina. I picked what I felt were the highlights.  The first video features Richard Macsherry.  Next, Vinnie Cavallario shares some of the history between the Cavallario and the Macsherry families [Hilarious].  Peter and Steven Cavallario recipients of the Folino Business of the Year Award.







Program; Click to enlarge

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Meet Rachelle, A Young Musician In Abay

Alexandria Bay:

Her name is Rachelle Johnson, and she is 13 years old and attends Alexandria Central School.  Her parents, David and Cindy asked me to video tape her musical performance that was held this past Sunday at the Reformed Church.  The church filled to capacity with family, friends and supporters.  Her father quipped, I have know idea where Rachelle gets her musical talents from, neither I or her mother have any, we just love music.

Rachelle's dad went on to say.... It is one thing to sing, and another to play the piano, but it becomes more difficult to do both at the same time.  Then take into account that Rachelle is only 13 and performing in front of this audience.

I first saw Rachelle a year ago, she and 2 of her friends were performing in front of her fathers JRECK Subs shop.  I remember thinking, gotta give them credit, it takes courage to do that.  Tonight, Rachelle performs solo, playing the piano, trumpet  and singing.  It has only been a year since I first listened to her sing and tonight I see such a dramatic change in her abilities, that it makes me wonder where she will be next year at this time.

Rachelle is trying to raise money so that she can attend Camp Electric a week long Christian Music Camp, located in Cedarville Ohio.  Her goal is $1,800, which some might say... why don't her parents just pay for it!  I see that Rachelle's parents are allowing her to learn a lesson in life by not just doling out the cash.  Her aspirations and goals will mean more to Rachelle if she works for them by performing in front of an audience.  

Rachelle will be performing again this Sunday, June 9th 7pm at the First Congregational Church in Morristown. A free will offering would be greatly appreciated. And if you can not attend?  I have a video of Rachelle that you can watch.  After watching, if you would like to contribute to Rachelle's musical future, you can contact David Johnson @ 315-783-3681.

Bloggers Note: I am a strong supporter of the visual and performing arts. Every year, as each school budget is passed, supporters of the arts always dread that one of these programs might be cut. By supporting young future artists such as Rachelle, your contributions help keep communities aware that the arts are alive and kicking and maintain a credible part in our society.


t
A Message From Rachelle
Rachelle's Next Performance


Monday, June 3, 2013

"LOVE" Of The Mourning Doves

This couple showed up in our Cedar Trees on May 29th. The female stayed in the tree while the male fetched the twigs for their nest.  The male cooed to his mate each time he left her.






Male Mourning Dove In Flight

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Did It Rain Last Night?

Alexandria Bay:

Every Spring we get a little water in our yard.  Today is mild compared to previous years.  Check out the video at the bottom of last years flood.
















Here is a video from last year:

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Video 3rd Annual Classic Car Cruise-In

Coyote Moon Vineyards:

3rd annual Classic Car Event at the Coyote Moon Vineyards, Clayton NY. Live entertainment by the BAD HUSBANDS CLUB.


BAY WARS

NOT TO LONG AGO IN A VILLAGE NOT TO FAR AWAY...........

The Knights of the Old Republican Party were challenged by the New Rebel Republicans.  Light Sabers and Blasters were drawn as tempers flared.  The Imperial Storm-Troopers were even called in to help settle the skirmish.  Nobody was hurt, although a few threatening words were exchanged.

Was this a scene from a  Lucas Star Wars Movie?  It could have been. Especially with some of the  characters that were present at this alleged event  from the other night.  Now lets see, who could be the Emperor, or Jabba, ...how about Jar Jar Binks? Something similar did happen the other night, minus all the Star Wars weapons.