Caution Falling Ice

Our Friend Frank Katuc

Alexandria Bay:

Frank Katuc, a friend to many passed away on Christmas Night, he was 62. Frank the Tank as many knew him, was a jovial man, who made everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. Frank is survived by his wife Jacqueline "Jackie" and family members including Franks four legged companion, Caesar. I will miss our many conversations and Franks friendly smile and warm greetings.

Below is a tribute video to Our Friend Frank:

Our Friend Frank from Jim Cummings on Vimeo.

Merry Christmas

Cardinals In The Frozen Food Section

Alexandria Bay:

St Francis Xavier Mass Cancelled

Redwood NY:

Fr. Doug has sent another ice storm message which cancels  the 8:30 morning Mass at St. Francis Xavier tomorrow morning.  For now, the 10 am Mass to be held at St Cyril's will be going on as scheduled.

St. Cyrils Mass Cancelation

Alexandria Bay:

Fr. Doug just called and asked me to relay a message to all of you.  Tonight's 5pm Anticipated Mass is cancelled due to the weather.  Fr. went on to say that a decision will be made later as to which masses  will be held tomorrow in the Bay and Redwood.

SNOW Snow snow

I was watching one of my favorite Christmas movies.... White Christmas.  I love the song Snow, so much that I made a video of our recent snow fall.  It stars Luna and features my son as the snow shoveler.....

SNOW Snow snow from Jim Cummings on Vimeo.

Winter Rules The Road

I have been driving I-81 for over 21 years.  I have seen people do some goofy stuff but tonight's trip home was probably the best.... ever.  I was heading North on 81 and I could see that the driving conditions were going to deteriorate quickly, as they usually do this time of year.  I call the section of 81 from the Rt. 342 exit to the Theresa/LaFargeville exit the devils triangle.  There was just enough snow in the air and on the ground to make visibility limited and road conditions slippery.

I made sure all my lights were on and then slowed down as the blowing snow made it difficult to see ahead. I wanted to be able to see ahead so that I could react and I wanted to be seen by any vehicles coming up behind me.  When I had to slow down to 45 mph I turned on my four-way flashers.

The traffic started to back up, and that is when I met Mr. Jeep Wrangler.  He was a bad a$$ with his over sized tires. I got nervous when he started goosing the gas pedal..... he probably thought this is cool, fish tailing going 50 in the middle of a long line of cautious/nervous drivers.  He was not happy with the swerves so he revved up the engine even more.

The laws of physics took over and the next thing I saw was Mr Jeep recovering from a near 180° swerve, the momentum carried his vehicle into the breakdown lane and partially off the shoulder.  I chuckled to my self..... amateur..... then I thought.... this guy could have caused quite the pile up..... maybe injuries or even worse.... fatalities.  I stopped chuckling and was thankful that the maniac was off the road.  Hopefully Mr. Jeep was using this time to reflect on his reckless behavior.  Personally I was hoping he was suffering from the shakes and a severe case of the sweats or even the wets.

The story is not over.... nope, far from it.  As I continued my travels, The traffic backed up and became more congested.  I found myself without a safe distance  between the car in front of me and the one behind me.  The person behind me kept speeding up, almost on my bumper.  I'll be damned..... if it wasn't Mr. Jeep!  God protects drunks, babies and evidently idiots.  He continued to follow me, closely, for the next several miles.  We all passed the Theresa/LaFargeville exit and just as I expected, the weather cleared and the traffic picked up speed.  I kept driving a conservative 50mph because I knew that there was going to be some drifting snow up ahead.  Mr. Jeep tried to pass me but I could hear his over sized tires losing traction and then he would slow down and drift off behind me.  This went on till the last rest stop before the Alex Bay exit.

I could hear the power of Mr. Jeeps engine as he pushed the gas pedal to the floor.  He was fish tailing as he started to pass me.  We were side by side, so I slowed down to let him get ahead of me and go on his way. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see that he was flipping me the bird.  I countered that rude gesture with the sign of the cross..... and all of a sudden Mr. Jeep was gone.... flying down the embankment into the median.... swerving and spinning. As I watched him in my side view mirror, he was making a feeble attempt to drive back up the embankment, sinking deeper into the tall grass and snow. He was now TOAST.... and I laughed and cheered.

I made it home safe and sound and it only took me an extra 17 minutes.  I am now drinking a glass of wine while Mr. Jeep is waiting.... for the tow truck and a bill for that service.  Winter Rules The Road.... slow down and pace yourself......

Donkeys and Elephants

Some in this community believe so strongly in their party, that they will fight for it, over throw it, and then call it their own. Yup those REPs are rock hard and so are their heads. There are a few like minded die hard DEMs too.   They do not get it..... the party and its candidates mean very little.... at this level.  I maintain that the party affiliations should be ignored and  each candidate should be evaluated on who they are..... 

I was asked a few weeks ago if I thought that the Town Highway Supt race was won fair and square?  Were all the absentee ballots legit?  Of course it was a fair race and all the absentee ballots were validated by the Jefferson County B.O.E.  No conspiracy, no treachery..... Davis had it for a few days and now it belongs to Durand.  

The real lesson to be learned is this.... how could a race be so close when Durand had the backing of both the Democrat and Republican parties?  While Davis rode on the  Working Families ticket, which according to the enrollment stats only has 249 party supporters out of 62,053 registered voters in Jefferson County?  Do all 249 WF party members live in the Town Of Alexandria?

I think it is very interesting that half of the voter turn out would leave the comfort zone of their party and vote for a candidate who was endorsed by a minor party.  Probably time for some to reevaluate their campaign strategies.....  riding on the coat tails of the Democrat or Republican parties is not a safe bet.... unless you like nail biters.

Bloggers Note: The opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own.  I do not accept any compensations in the form of paid advertising or donations. However, on the rare occasions  that I am out, and you want to buy me a beer I will gladly accept said beer and return that kindness and buy you whatever you may be drinking at a later date. 

Snow Puppy

Alexandria Bay:

The snow has hit the ground and so has our 5 month hold Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier LUNA.  This is her first exposure to the white stuff, and I told her there will be more to come. She seemed very happy about this and posed for a picture..... These photos are screen grabs from my flip video camera

Stats And Facts: Alexandria Town Highway Supt. Race

The results of the Republican Primary for the Alexandria Town Highway Supt. race were Durand 225 and Davis 220.  The tally of the paper ballot vote of the Town of Alexandria Democrat Caucus  Durand 21 to Davis 6 and as a result Durand gained the nod from the Dems.

Durand went into  the General Election with the support of the 2 largest political parties while Davis relied on the Working Families Party to carry him on election day.  Below is the Jefferson County Party Enrollment as of April 1 2013.

The results of the General Election before the count of the Absentee ballots was Davis[WF] 578 votes to Durand [D+R] 537 votes.

The count of the Absentee ballots swung the race in favor of Durand with 605 votes to Davis' 604.

The qualifications [as outlined by the Jeff Co BOE] to vote using an absentee ballot are listed below:

Unavoidably absent from your county or, if a resident of the city of New York absent from said city, on Election Day;
Unable to appear at the polls due to illness or disability; a patient in a Veterans’ Administration Hospital;
Detained in jail awaiting Grand Jury action or confined in prison after conviction for an offense other than a felony.

Bloggers Note:  These are the facts and I decided not to muddy them with my opinions.  After a few days, I just my share some of those with you.... and I am sure you probably just can not wait for that....

T.H.S. Race

The Fat Lady

Some Things Never Change

Typhoon Haiyan has decimated the landscape and lives of the people of the  Philippines. These people like so many others during recorded history are suffering an unfathomable pain.  Others around the world are agonizing because of tempests like Haiyan or from the miseries of war, the squalor of famine, or the torture of oppression. These unbearable pains that these souls endure suggests that Some Things Never Change.

Earlier this summer folk-rock recording artist Dave Maswick released his second CD titled "News From Here". A track on the CD "Some Things Never Change" is Dave's heartfelt response to the torment and anguish of the people that endure such pains as the people of the Philippines have undergone in the past week.  A pain that will last for months and years to come.

When Dave asked me to make this video, it was his desire to have a video made that reflected his painful realization that Some Things Never Change, an awareness that he wants to share with everyone.  I recorded this video in late August, long before Typhoon Haiyan and  have spent many weeks editing and tweaking it to the version that Dave and I are sharing with you now.



Some Things Never Change from Jim Cummings on Vimeo.

Lockheed P-38 "Lightning" WWII Fighter Pilots

We live in a digital era.  Digital photos, High Definition Videos, and Music, all of them can be archived and kept  on a thumb drive.  These "files" can be shared with anyone, anywhere in the world. But what about our parents era? 

Photo Corner Tabs

Our parents displayed their photos in frames that sat on shelves or hung on walls.  Other photos were arranged in albums kept in place with corner holders. I remember our dining room table becoming  an album assembly line.  My mother would have stacks and rows of photos arranged in "her order".  I would pick a photo out of the pile asking who is this a picture of?  She would patiently tell me who it was and the "story" that went with the photo.  But, a mothers patience soon wears thin and she would simply say, Jimmy turn the photo over and read the back, followed by: make sure you put that back where you found it.

The back of the photos contained handwritten information which satisfied my curiosity of who, where, and when. The writing styles varied, some of the photos were copies given to us from various relatives and friends. No doubt each copy of the photo's information was carefully transcribed from the master photo each time a copy was requested.

Which brings me to today.... I googled Lockheed P-38 Lightning looking for a picture of my fathers plane that he flew as a WWII Fighter Pilot. I found what I was looking for and used it as my facebook cover photo.  My son came down the stairs and said "dad, don't you have a photo of your dads actual plane"? I thought for a minute and said "yes I think there is one on a shelf, someplace.... Amazingly I found it and carefully removed the photo from the frame.  I flipped the photo over and on the back was a wealth of information.  

My son was surprised at the story that was written on the back in my fathers handwriting.  A story that I am sharing with you.  I wonder how many of you will start pulling out old photos and looking on the backs for the rest of the story....

The Back of the photo

My Dads Fighter Squadron "The Screaming Meanies"

Pre-Election Day

Village Of Alexandria Bay and Town Of Alexandria:

A few days ago I posted a blurb about Tactical Voting i.e. Bullet Voting.  Another tactic that I should have mentioned is the "Write In".  Some people will write in their own name or someone famous like Mickey Mouse or not so famous..... Walter Felterbush.  The Write In can be a very powerful tool, not so much for winning the current election but maybe a future one.  If there were enough bonafide Write In's on the Ballot, then maybe that person[s] might just make a serious attempt at running for public office the next go around.

When it comes right down to it, I know that most people are reluctant to throw their hat into the political arena.  HA!  I said that word r-e-l-u-c-t-a-n-t.  It was a word that I used to describe myself as a reluctant candidate when I ran for village trustee a couple of years ago. In an attempt to discredit my candidacy  a local bully jumped all over me for making this statement.  Being reluctant or hesitant is a sign of humility and unpretentiousness at the possibility of becoming voted in as a public servant.  Those that criticize these traits are out of touch dinosaurs that will hopefully become extinct.... soon.

Everyone needs to make a commitment to go out and vote tomorrow even though it is only a municipal election year.  And here is a shameless plug for the best Election Day Ham Dinner held at St. Cyrils Church.

Do You Have A Voting Strategy?

Some vote straight party line.  They choose their party row and shade in all the boxes from left to right.  In my opinion this is not really a strategy but more of a mindless approach to voting. Although it does have its merits when a candidate is running unopposed or 2 candidates for 2 seats.  I know of some that will leave a box blank as kind of a no vote for that person.  I have had opportunities in the past  to view the tallies of the votes in our community after the polls have closed  and I have noticed that this is done more often than some might realize.  Not sure if the difference between voter turn out and totaling the number of votes for each candidate are all no votes or voter indifference because they may not know anything about that person and just skipped them.

If you have ever intentionally skipped a candidate on a ballot.... Raise Your Hand! Good for you, this next strategy might just work for you.  How about the 3 way race for 2 seats? We have 2 of those races, one in the village for trustee and one in the town for councilperson.  Take a look at the sample ballot below....

Click to Enlarge

There are 3 candidates and the ballot tells you to vote for any 2.  In theory if you follow those directions your second choice will cancel out your first. It might be hard to understand at first but if you give it some thought over the weekend it just might make sense to you in time for Election Day. How about if you ignore the directions and just vote for 1 candidate, your absolute favorite one [and best choice]! This tactical strategy is called Bullet Voting and it is better explained HERE.  I hope you take the time to read this.....you might be very surprised at the results after the polls close.

Local Ballot [Sample]

Village of Alexandria Bay and Town Of Alexandria:
Set aside the politics of your party and vote for the "best" candidate on November 5th

Click For Larger Image

Trading In The Beast

Ten years ago I purchased a 2003 VW Jetta Wagon.  165K miles later it seemed that it was time to trade the loyal beast for a newer version.  The beast performed very well over the years and aged gracefully just recently showing signs of surface rust.

I called my friend Walt Young at FX Caprara VW and he found a perfect replacement for the beast.  Walt and I are both into making videos.  At the closing of the sales transaction, Walt pulled his video camera out and said, we are going to make a funny commercial.  So I played along.....  The following video is a collaborative piece.  I added the spooky intro, and inserted the zombie over Walt's portion of the video, and then added the cute clip of our dog Luna at the end.

Autumn Laker

Alexandria Bay:

I shot this video last night while sipping on a beer at The Pointe, Bonnie Castle Resort.  Tons of videos out there with ships passing in front of Boldt Castle.  So I tried to make this one just a little different.....

The Video Guy

Alexandria Bay:

During the last Blues In The Bay, I grabbed a few seemingly random video shots. I had them on my camera for a month before I uploaded them and then realized what I had.  Incriminating evidence!  I will admit that I am guilty of this same ruse. Pretending to video tape the cute dog or kid while secretly video taping a rather hot looking momma! It is a secret that us video guys have and it is one that I am willing to share with the world.  As a result, Walt Young has kicked me out of the Video Guy Club!  My only redemption.... buying Walt a nice bottle of Scotch... or you can go visit him at FX Caprara and buy a car from him..... tell him I sent you.......and maybe he will let me back into the Video Guy Club.....Please watch the video

Newly Ordained: Deacon Joel

The Catholic Community Of Alexandria:

Yesterday at St. Mary's Cathedral in Ogdensburg, my brother-in-law Joel Walentuk along with 12 others from North Country Parishes , were ordained as Deacons by Bishop Terry R. LaValley.  Today these 13 men begin their ministries of The Word, Alter, and Charity. Many years of hard work and sacrifice by them and their families have led up to assisting in their first Mass today, and many more to come.  Congratulations to ALL... Please watch the video and Meet Deacon Joel

CHOICES

Town Of Alexandria:

I am unpredictable.  It is one of my many quirky behaviors that I like to use..... regularly. Just because I can, and I know it annoys some people [hopefully a lot of people].  I had a visit today from 3 town workers who support Andrew Davis.  They made a special effort to come talk to me, the mad blogger.  I am not really mad, just unpredictable and crazy with no ties to anyone or any group.... Some call it being Rogue.... I like that word.......R=O=G=U=E

I had already read the political pamphlet, which caused me to think and read it more closely a second time.  I listened to what the 3 town workers had to say, but more importantly, I took notice of what was not said.  I am not going to share either with you, I am just going to say, if they come knocking on your door, take some time and listen...... closely.......

Town Of Alexandria Highway Superintendent is going to be a hard seat to win.....  Most political races on this level are won based on family name and notoriety..... which is ok, as long as they possess the credentials and the finesse to get the job done with out the drama.....

I am not endorsing one over the other..... not that anyone really cares or hangs on my opinion.  All I am encouraging you to do is to make an educated vote........

Till election day..... my door is open, and so is my choice....

Update: after posing this story, I had a visit from Andy and his wife Holly..... we had a nice visit......

Circus Updates Via E-Mail

As you have noticed, I have not been updating the blog as often as I used to. The Reason?  I have other more important obligations with my family. I know it is a hassle to check a site only to find that there are no new stories and I also know that eventually people will stop checking in.  Updates on this blog will be sporadic, so why not sign up using the email update located on the top of the left column.  

Once you have entered your email address, you will be prompted by feed burner to enter a code and then click proceed.  You will then receive an email notification to verify your email address, click on that and you are ready to receive updates It is that easy.... now you will receive an email when ever I post a new story on the Circus.  By The way, this service does not allow me access to your email information.

Alone But Not Lonely

Some think that because I go out alone, that I must be lonely.
I do not need to travel with a group to feel secure!

Others think that I should crave their friendship, because they are so cool.
Sorry but you are not "all" that!

A few think that I am the most despised person in this village because I do not agree with your business ethics.
To bad you put your energy into a contradictory venture!

Some think that my opinion does not count because I have only lived here 21 years.
How many generations does  one have to live here to have an opinion?

Most think that they are hurting me with their glares and behind the back stabbings.
To bad you feel the need to resort to High School tactics!

You are misguided if you think that my life is somehow incomplete because I am not part of your clique. Your club is not as important as you think!

You are wrong on all accounts because I have my own conscientious, goals, and values and they do not include any of yours....
I AM AN INDEPENDENT THINKER....I AM NOT A FOLLOWER OF BULLIES

Final Days Of Summer

Alexandria Bay:

Fall is approaching fast and some die hard river rats took advantage of the final days of summer doing what they love to do..... being on the St. Lawrence River. Photo courtesy of Michele Walton..... a very cool shot.

Objects Are Closer Than They Appear

302-394-9555

No, it is not Jenny's number [867-5309].  The 302-394-9555 number has shown up in my cell phone caller ID ever other day for the past 2 weeks.  No message is ever left.  I have called this number back.... there is a brief robotic message that tells me that someone will be with me, please hold on.... then the message stops.... no musac .... no propaganda.... just dead silence.  I did do a little research on this... and supposedly it is a land line number that originates in Wilmington Delaware.  Lots of people have been complaining about this number since early in 2012.  Has this number called your cell phone???  No other info is available..... ANNOYING!

Fog On The River

Alexandria Bay:

Paul Edgar took this photo early this morning:

Cool conditions by the river this morning.

Paul had this to say:  I took this picture from River Hospital. The fog coming off the river looks like a bunch of mini white tornado s up close. The Thousand Island Club is in the background "somewhere".

"THANKS"

Was the one word text message I received on my phone tonight.  Really? Really?  The sender could not have dropped the "s" and added a more sincere "you", making it Thank You?  Even when someone is upset with something I have done they just do not send me the word *@#k but they personalize it with *@#k  You! Oh well,  Thank You Very Little

DOUG "WOODstock"

October 6th.... keep this date open and come and share in a celebration of the Life Of Doug Wood.  An all day concert to benefit Sterling and Storm Wood....

Zany Outlandish and Foolish

Those are some pretty accurate descriptors of the local town politics.  You could also add stubborn, ruthless, selfish and so on.  If by chance any of the candidates are entering the political arena to make a positive change, then I applaud you.  However be aware that if the person that runs this town and village does not want you to implement those changes then all your good intentions will die "on the floor" with your motion.  I am not going to get into who he is, just go back and read that wonderful letter to the editor that is circulating around.  He only controls the weak minded and I am never going to become one of his minions.

I have been watching the local politics for several years.  The village has made some progress, along with making corrections as a result of the Comptrollers Audit.  The town on the other hand is mired with bullies, thugs and idiots.  Maybe there will be some change after the election.  But I sincerely doubt it.... not with one man operating all those puppet strings.  I would like to say that I am done with politics, but lets just say I am taking a respite from all the slime.

In Memory Of Douglas W. Wood

I will miss you Doug Wood. One of my best memories was working together on a string quartet score, for the song "Searching" off the 1st BuoyRocker CD. I basked in the glow of feeling your satisfaction and pride, that came with something you had always dreamed of accomplishing. ~ David Knapp

Doug my friend, you are where I will travel someday, ......so many memories with you. So its ok, go in peace knowing, that you have touched so many. You will always be in our lives. ~S.M.

Doug Wood taught us how to laugh and that laughter is the best medicine. ~ R.S.

In 2000 Doug was asked to write the score for the String Quartet part in this BuoyRocker song titled "Searching".  Doug spent weeks writing and developing this score and then directed Agnes McCarthy and the Trillium Quartet, something he always wanted to do.  I was asked to build a video around this song in Memory Of Doug Wood.......

BLUES IN THE BAY Labor Day Weekend

Alexandria Bay:

13th Annual Blues In The Bay, August 29th - September 2nd. Click this link for the Blues weekend Lineup.

Convenient Care @ River Hospital

Alexandria Bay:

Just before her belly flop dive at the recent Rotary Fund Raiser, I spotted Convenient Care Nurse, Marcia Graves all dressed up doing some great "PR" for this time and cost saving service.  I have used it on several occasions and I guess the best way to describe it... just like the name says.... CONVENIENT. The video of Marcia that I captured describes just what Convenient Care is all about.....

Rotary Fund Raiser "Making A Splash" 2013

Alexandria Bay:

Second Annual, Alex Bay Rotary Belly Flop/Cannon Ball fund raiser makes a big splash during the "Rockin' The Bay Music Weekend Event. Here is a sampling of the jumpers from this years fund raiser..... Johnny Spezzano did a great job as Master Of Ceremonies.... Please watch the video all the way to the end...... there are some cool still shots of the floppers in Mid-Air...

Make A Big Splash

Alexandria Bay:

Representatives from the A-Bay Rotary  were interviewed this morning on WWNY-TV.  Promoting the Big Splash Belly Flop Contest that is part of the Rockin' The Bay Weekend Event.



Here is a video from Last Years Contest

ROCKIN' THE BAY

Alexandria Bay:

Rockin' The Bay kicks off this Thursday night with live music right through Sunday afternoon.  Along with all the free bands is a wild Belly Flop contest to help raise money for the Alex Bay Rotary.  Floppers raise the money and spectators get to watch for free.  Sunday morning is the Classic Car Rally which is free to enter and free to view.

Click this link to see the dates and times for this weekend long event Sponsored by the Chamber Of Commerce.

BEWARE! Cuteness Is Infectious

That is how one of my Facebook friends described the video of our new pup, Luna.  As most of my readers know, my family was suddenly without a four pawed friend.  For over 20 years we have always had at least one dog in our lives.

But this is a new chapter in our life, it is called Loving  A Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and it started this past Thursday.  Luna is not replacing our two Goldens.  She is coming into a home that still has plenty  love for a new family member. The video below takes place over a span of a couple weeks.  It starts when we first met Luna at 4 weeks and then her first couple of days at her new home at 8 weeks.....

Choose Stability and Reliability

Village of Alexandria Bay:

STAY FOCUSED

Town Of Alexandria:

Bloggers Note: Yes,  I know I am not a Republican and have no say or vote in the Primary.  However, I believe in electing the best candidate, not the party or popular candidate.  We get enough of the popular and party candidates shoved down on throats at the Federal Level.  We do not need that here!

Parallel Parking

Kind of a home video.  My son practicing for his road test.  His mom and I thought it best to enlist the help of a family friend to give our son some pointers, someone younger than us.  It worked, our son passed his driving test today.  Here is something I did not know.  Drivers education is about a $200 discount on auto insurance, BUT if your son or daughter maintains an 82 or above average in school, then the discount is about $1000.  Which unfortunately does not say much for drivers ed.

Ninja's Against Animal Cruelty

New Chapter In

Jefferson County NY:

Ninja's Against Animal Cruelty of Jefferson County NY (NAAC) was founded to address the need for strengthening the human/animal bond in our community. It is our hope that through community involvement we can alleviate animal suffering through rescue, advocacy, education, and rehabilitation. We will explore animal cruelty laws to ensure that they are clear and precise for long term solutions. 

We believe that with some temporary assistance, many animals can remain in their current homes instead of being admitted to animal shelters. It is our hope to create programs to assist with food, supplies, transportation, foster care and support to keep families intact with their pets.

We believe in creating a low cost spay/neuter program for the people of Jefferson County for the purpose of reducing unwanted births and unfortunate deaths of animal offspring. We plan to aggressively educate about the inhumanity of puppy mills, "Backyard Breeders" and spontaneous adopting. 

We shall implement programs and provide services to promote responsible pet ownership.

This is a Facebook Closed Group, you must be invited by a member.... and yes it is worth it.....

B.H.C. Kicks Off The 2013 Pirate Days

Bill Johnston's Pirate Days
Alexandria Bay:

Bad Husbands Club kicked off the 2011 Pirate Days with the Friday night block dance. And what an awesome show that was. They are back again bigger and better than ever, this Friday August 10th from 8pm till 10pm. Check out this teaser video from 2011.

Alex Bay Chamber Link.

49th Annual Antique Boat Show & Auction

Antique Boat Museum, Clayton N.Y.

13th Annual Paddle For Betterment

Alexandria Bay:

The paddling started at 9:am this morning

The Foundation for Community Betterment is a national organization dedicated to engaging individuals of all ages in community enhancement by creating an immediate, positive impact on the lives of individuals or organizations that share our philanthropic vision, but who currently lack the means to succeed.

Corfu Couple Get Engaged At Clipper

Clipper Inn Clayton NY:

Michael and Laurie Ann are from the village of Corfu located in Genesee County in Western New York State. How they made The Clipper their destination is unknown. After making dinner reservations Michael popped the question to Laurie Ann and presented her with a huge rock.  The staff at the Clipper were quick to pick up on this momentous event and  commandeered the bill board to share their event.  Congratulations to you both...

Nick Of Time- The Band

The bands frontwoman is Lisa Forshaw, who has a voice that is both sweet and spicy. Harmonizing with Lisa  is acoustic/electric guitar player Ron Sacci [a childhood friend of mine].  Ron schooled me on music appreciation even tho to this day I can not play an instrument or carry a note.  Jim Wiley brings a blend of keyboards [with synth bass] as well as adding an unusual dimension to the sound of the band when he swoons the audience with his saxophone. Last but not least is David Donley, an eclectic percussionist that keeps the beat going with his hands more than  the traditional drummers sticks.

Nick Of Time will be performing at the Top Of The Bay this Friday night, starting at around 8:30pm .  Enjoy the sampling of the band in the videos below...

This Wednesday Concert In The Park

Alexandria Bay Chamber Of Commerce:

Concert in the Park Series July 24th from 7:pm till 8:30 at the Scenic View Park Pavilion featuring the Beautiful Wreck Trio: Jess Pierce, Dan Hammond and Dave Donley.  Bring a folding chair, some snacks and beverages and kick back and listen to some really great music with the best view on the St. Lawrence River.  Admission is FREE!

Upcoming Concerts Schedule click here!

Apollo 11 Walking On The Moon

44 Years Ago:

On July 16th 1969 Apollo 11 rockets fired and the rocket was on its way to the moon.  Four days later on July 20th the LEM landed on the moon.  Several hours later on July 21st Neil Armstrong was walking on the moon....

This is a video I made featuring the vocal talents of Phil "Crush" DuMond......

Thunder Heads - Touch Of Grey

Alexandria Bay:

The Greatful Dead say that Every Silver Lining Got A Touch Of Grey.... The Thunder Heads that traveled across Canada with the potential of producing tornado's lost their steam as they approached the Mighty St. Lawrence River.  It is what the River does.... pulverizing menacing storms such as this one.  We certainly dodged a bullet on this one.... eerie but beautiful.....

Recording Artist Dave Maswick Live In The Bay

Crush-A-Palooza, Alex Bay -

Crush-A-Palooza was an event that featured 7 very talented musicians. On June 9th, Top Of The Bay was the epicenter of some really great music.  Members from The Shadows and Double Axle played along with recording artists Emilie Cardinaux and Dave Maswick......

I will be doing more stories on that 5 hour concert, but this post features Dave Maswick.  Dave is a graduate of Potsdam Crane School of Music and taught music for a short time at Henderson Schools in the late 70's. In 1980 Dave joined the Albany based band Blotto as bass guitarist Chevrolet Blotto.  Blotto members had cool first names like Lee Harvey, Cheese, and Broadway followed by Blotto.  If you are 50 something then Blotto may sound familiar.... remember "I Wanna Be A Life Guard"?  Video Killed The Radio Star was the first video aired on MTV, Blotto's I Wanna Be A Life Guard was number 34.

In the mid 80's Dave left Blotto and joined the Stony Creek Band.  The Glen's Falls  band has been playing since the 70's and recently celebrated their 40th anniversary.  They are described as an eclectic Americana sound which mixes covers and originals and have played with Poco, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and The Charlie Daniels Band.

Although Dave still plays with the Stony Creek Band, he also has a solo career and has released two CD's. His first, All The Lies of Spain, released in 2005 and The News From Here, released this year.  His newest CD was recently reviewed by The Times Union which described Dave as "a fine, formidable songwriter with a way with melody and words."

Crush-A-Palooza organizer, Phil "Crush" DuMond kept telling me.... this guy {Dave Maswick} is the real deal when it comes to singer/songwriter/musician.  Phil was not kidding,  Check out this video I made of Dave performing his song Norveline off his first CD All The Lies Of Spain.  To think all this happened under a little tent in Alex Bay!



The next video When My Baby Come Home is also from his first CD,,,,

Her Name Was Latte` And We Loved Her

For as long as she could remember, she knew her name was Latte`.  As time went on her family called her Te`Te`. She loved the sound of both, especially when the man would call her name.   She knew his name as well as her own.... Dad. Latte` loved the lady  mom and their boy she had been told was her brother.  Latte` always suspected that they were not really her family but they certainly loved her as much as one of their own.

She wondered what happened to her sister Glory, the one that looked just like her.  Latte` remembered that she fell asleep out in the snow covered yard one day and a nice big man carried her into the car. Glory never came back.  Latte` whimpered,  hoping she would come back..... She thought  maybe one day she would see Glory again.

The snow melted and summer came.  Latte` loved to play fetch with her tennis ball.  Secretly, she really liked to tease her mom when she stole her gardening gloves. Latte` never meant to make mom mad at her, just having fun she thought.  As the days moved along, Latte` noticed that she easily got tired and could not play fetch as much as she would have liked.  Her dad seemed to notice this too.  Latte` never realized it but there was something growing in her chest, pushing against her lungs and heart.

A couple of weeks ago after a visit to the Vet, things changed for Latte`.  Her family whispered things and she could see sadness in their faces.  She did not understand what was happening, although she did know that it was becoming harder to breath.  Her meals changed and she loved the taste of the chicken and steak that she was getting mixed with her other food.  Latte` had no idea what Velveeta cheese was, all she knew was that it was better than any treat she ever had.  However, she was getting wise that there was something hidden in that cheese, maybe a bitter pill or two.  To Latte`,  the cheese was to good to worry about what might be inside.

Days went by and Latte` felt weaker and weaker.  She worried about her family,  not throwing the tennis ball for her, she thought it was good exercise for them to repeatedly pick the ball up and throw it for her.

Yesterday her brother hugged her and said good-bye and got in the car with dad, she wondered if she would see the boy again.... she loved him.  She remembered her sleeping sister Glory being put in a car, and she never came back.  Latte` started to worry about her boy.  Later her dad returned without her boy, but by now she was to weak to worry.  Instead, she just closed her eyes and dreamed of running in circles, faster and faster.....

Bloggers Note:  I don't have the heart or the energy to finish this piece, it is more therapy for me than it is a story for you.  The inevitable happened today.  Lets just say that my wife and I did what needed to be done. Latte` is pain free and running with Glory, Sienna and Bianca.  I also do not mean to imply that the loss of a pet is the same as the loss of a person.  Those of you that are pet people know that there is a special place reserved in our hearts for loving a pet.  It is a different love and therefore a different grief when a pet passes. Latte` was only 5 and the tumor was growing and severely restricting her lungs.  Many thanks to the Staff at the Watertown Animal Hospital especially  Dr. Rebecca Reynolds, who helped reassure us at this most difficult time.

I looked into Latte`s eyes and said I was sorry

Easy Listening Top Of The Bay

Alex Bay:

Hot and Humid where you are?  Not here on the St. Lawrence River.  Our river is Mother Natures Air Conditioning.  I venture as close to the river on these unbearably hot days.  One of my favorite destinations is Cavallario's  Top Of The Bay.  Refreshing beverages overlooking the river with the TI Bridge in the background, it can not be topped.  Or maybe it can....

For years the Top of the Bay has been catering to those who love music, free music, never a cover charge! Multi-genre musicians can be heard almost every afternoon and evening of the week playing on the second story outdoor patio.  Songs to please the ears and the mouth watering aromas of Clams, shrimp, pizza and the new Italian Nachos, can not be ignored.

In this post, I am featuring musician Ryan Grant,  a Friday afternoon regular.  He will be playing this Friday from 4 till 7 pm.  Ryan will be followed by Ben Wisner and Swag starting at 8.  Complete entertainment schedule can be found HERE!

The Bone Collector

Bay House Artisans, Alexandria Bay:

He is a character... I am referring to Wendell Amisimak Stalker, an Inupiat Eskimo who now resides on Rossie NY and is one of the 40 artisans that displays their work at the BHA.  Wendell is a carver of bone, ivory and baleen creating Eskimo hunting scenes, jewelry, and much more.  He is also a blues guitarist and has played with Muddy Waters and B.B. King.

He and the other artisans create an oasis of culture in our community.  Check out the video of his demonstration...


Photos

Fireworks Emergency Kit

Mother Nature may not cooperate with today's 4th of July Festivities.  The 70% chance of rain is supposed to diminish to 40% by this evening.  Just in case the weather does not break, I have a backup plan but only play this video if all else fails....

Marina Make-Over

Alexandria Bay:

The Wagoner Family Marina recently purchased Rogers Marina.  The Wagoner's have been busy giving the place a fresh look and a new name, Back Bay Marine.

Old Look

Fresh Look

Artisan Carver: Ivory, Bone, and Baleen

Bay House Artisans, Alexandria Bay:

Demonstration by Wendell Amisimak Stalker, read more by clicking Here.

Click To View Larger Image

Click to View Larger Image

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!

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

Click here for more information from Clayton Island Tours

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

LaDuchesse @ The ABM

Antique Boat Museum

Clayton NY:

Stepping Backwards In Time:

"The 106′ houseboat La Duchesse brings the gracious River lifestyle of one hundred years ago to life. Built in 1903 for hotelier George Boldt. Generously donated by the McNally family, of Wellesley Island, NY, and Chicago, IL, she opened for visitors at the Museum in July of 2005".

The video is a virtual walk through of this magnificent houseboat. But you really should visit the ABM and walk through it to feel it's history.....