Wednesday Musings & "News on The Run"

OMG...the sun is actually peeking through this morning!  Don't get too excited...weather forecast does not call for partly sunny until Saturday.  So, enjoy the sun that does peek through at us today, but look for rain at some point...maybe I should get my walk in early.

Don't forget...Open Mic at the Mountaindale Inn tonight, and every Wednesday.  Doors open at five and music starts around eightish. 

Rock Hill's new Farmers Market opens next Saturday, June 16th at its brand new location across the street from the Trading Post. 

News on The Run

Sheryl Crow has been diagnosed with a brain tumor...this incredible female vocalist has already taken on breast cancer and won.  She says this latest health scare is just another bump in the road.  Let's hope so, and our prayers are with her.  The good news is that the tumor is benign.

Walker and out of state robberbarrons steal recall election, but I reported on this last night.  We have witnessed the end of democracy here in America unless we amend the constitution to take money out of elections...especially corporate money.

Tuesday "News on The Run"

More dismal weather seems in store for us today if outside my window is any example...it is overcast and drizzling out with steely gray skies above.  The official weather is predicting rain through at least Saturday, so like it or not, get used to the showers outside...this is going to slow down progress on our Sullivan Renaissance Project over in Rock Hill...if you want to know more about the Rock Hill Volunteer Opportunities, contact Mel at (845) 807-2034.

Is your computer infected with viscous malware that could see you lose internet access come July?  After a million dollar online scam, seems as many as 300,000 computers could be, and the FBI is helping in organizing a free fix...visit here to learn more, and find links to sites where you can check your computer FOR FREE.

As a child, did you know you could be held responsible for your parents medical/nursing home costs?  It is called Filial Responsibility, and is the law in 30 states.  Though New York is not one of the states, we are all but surrounded by states that hold to this theory of law, have laws on the books holding children responsible.  Morally in most cases children should do the right thing by their parents, but don't agree with a law that makes said responsibility mandatory...as one example...what if you were raised by abusive parents?  Should you then be held responsible for their care when they grow old and feeble?

I have designer plates (YardArt), and feel those choosing to pay the extra fee are doing so to get a message out to the world about themselves, or about their beliefs and/or politics.  In Virginia a veterans plates (which he was issued four years ago) have been revoked as some Arab American groups found them to be offensive...the veteran is suing to get them back...so the question posed to our readers..."do you feel custom plates and their message should fall under our First Amendment Rights, or instead should the DMV be allowed to have the final say in what our plates can say in eight spaces?  Being someone who feels political correctness is killing America, and feeling we have had too many of our civil liberties stripped away in the name of National Security and keeping us safe, I hope the veteran wins this one.

Tuesday "News on The Run"

Open Mic Every Wednesday

WOW, what can one say about the weather in one word?  WET.  Seriously, it is rainy the proverbial cats and dogs outside, as a steady downpour washes away the grit and dust here in downtown Mountaindale NY. It is much needed, but at this rate, look for flood warnings in low laying areas of Sullivan County.  Might as well settle in and enjoy it, as the sun is not supposed to peak out until Thursday...good news is the weekend is actually looking pretty good.

In other local news here in our hamlet...Uccelli's has finished construction of a new deck for outdoor summer dining...it looks functional, if not just a tad canted, and just a bit out of place...hopefully some well positioned landscaping around it will see it blend beautifully into the quaint rustic charm of the community.  In other local news, the Wednesday night Open Mic at the Mountaindale Inn is bringing in some serious local talent.  Look for Josh and Levi to be performing this week, and almost local legend Richard most likely will be doing a set as well.

News on The Run

Romney's current stance (he does flip flop) on gay marriage has seen one of his key financial backers here in New York pull his financial support from under Mitt, and thrown it behind President Obama.  Bill White of New York-based consulting firm Constellations Group has decided he in good faith cannot back a candidate who is on the wrong side of history when it comes to Gay Marriage.  It's not the only reason I would never vote for an arrogant, spoiled, fat cat bully like Romney, but it is one of them.

Boehner will again insist on Budget Cuts as a part of lifting the debt ceiling...OK, lets start with the salaries and lucrative retirements of our elected Representatives and Senators.  How many of you know that after just five years in office a member of Congress is guaranteed healthcare insurance and $42,000 a year for life, and it rapidly increases from there.  Let's not forget their large SIX FIGURE SALARIES either.  So Boehner, since you oppose tax increases on the uber rich, and want more budget cuts, lets start with your salary...Fair Enough?

Obama calls for repeal of the Defense of Marriage act, which is a good thing, and about time.  Time for the bigots to be sent back to the pulpit, and out of politics.  In the same speech at a fundraiser, he also said he wants to pass the Dream Act...sorry, but think he is wrong about this one.  It is time for America to get tough on illegal aliens, time to make E Verify the law of the land across America.

Wednesday "News on The Run"

Looking out my window at the weather watching as rain lazily falls from the sky...it is the perfect kind of day to stay in bed, read a good book,  have tea and a snack in the middle of the afternoon.  The forecast is rain, rain and more rain through at least Saturday of this week.  The water is much needed, but seems this kind of rain for days on end always brings worry of flooding, so we will see just what the week has in store.

News of a local kind....

1.  We have new neighbors in town.  Watched them move into 47 Main Street last night. and briefly met them over at the Mountaindale Inn.  Seem like really nice folks, and always nice to see young progressive people moving into our little hamlet...wondering if they will be opening up a shop in the downstairs storefront so that we see a twofer...new neighbors, and a new business (which Mountaindale desperately needs).  Still holding my breath hoping that the rumored convenience store at the corner of Main and Post Hill is going to come into reality.

2.  Speaking about the Mountaindale Inn, don't forget that tonight is Open Mic night!  The first three have been a roaring success, with an incredible array of local talent showing up to play.  Rumor has it that Josh and Levi are going to be back again this week, as well as Richard whose energy and talent is loved by all.  Hope everyone comes out to say hello, and to enjoy some great musical talent.

Wednesday "News on The run"

Big news was Obama flying into Afghanistan.  Fact is, most of us do not care that his trip was a certain amount of political theater that has Republicans crying foul...GET OVER IT.  What I care about more is an agreement that is going to keep our American Troops in this God Forsaken hell hole through at least 2024..amazing how little that fact is being covered in the news loop.  The media also seemed to jump on the re-polish the tarnished Secret Service Bandwagon, making sure they pointed out the FINE JOB the Secret Sluts did in keeping the president safe on his trip into Afghanistan.  Of course they did...who wants a prostitute in a Burka.

The Bully on the world stage (that would be China) wants an apology from America for harboring the blind activist in our Chinese Embassy in Beijing.  If Hillary Clinton will not do it, this blog will.  FUCK YOU CHINA!  Maybe you should start respecting the basic human rights of your citizens, then there would be no need to provide aid and comfort to those seeking asylum from your harsh and neanderthal behaviors and rules.

Seems teh media is deliberately avoiding coverage of the Occupy Movements return as they start what is being called the American Spring.  Sadly, too many folks in the 99 percent seem to be asleep, or apathetic to their own plight.  There should be millions, not tens of thousands marching in the street demanding change, and that change could start by stopping Billionaires like Mitt Romney from getting elected.

Monday "News on The Run"

Spring Color

The weather today is going to be BEAUTIFUL with highs near 85...a great day to work on your base tan if you ask me.   Rest of the week is going to be a bit cooler with the key words being partly cloudy.

Carol Costello just got her facts wrong on her morning show...mention this as she was reporting about the fire at the Grandview Palace this weekend...like many, she wrongfully thought that Dirty Dancing was filmed at this once historic site.  Maybe the CNN fact checkers should give her story a going over?

For those waiting until the last minute to file your taxes...tomorrow is TAX DAY here in America.   In other tax news, the Buffett Law is being a winner for President Obama, but it is not going to go anywhere.  As a middle-class tax payer, here is a suggestion...do away with the pay day holiday on our Social Security, and raise EVERYONE'S taxes until the deficit is GONE.  Furthermore, lets rein in federal retirement benefits and salaries so they are more in line with similar jobs and benefits in the private sector.  Fact is, taxing millionaires and billionaires will not solve our deficit problems, and it is time we all realize personal sacrifices are going to have to be made.

Leave you today with a FEEL GOOD story...people pitch in as six year old raises $10,000 selling lemonade to help with his father's cancer care.

Taxes Filed and Other "News on The Run"

First, do apologize for the lack of articles this week, but unfortunately more pressing life issues have held sway here...A) TAXES...uggggg...good news is they are officially filed, though have to contest what I feel was a wrongfully given 1099 MISC form I received, and B)  been getting prepared for a presentation to the "Town of Fallsburg" Board this upcoming Monday night at 6:00 PM...see below.  Please try to attend.

On Monday, April 16th, 2012 at 6:00 I will be officially asking the "Town of Fallsburg" to pass a zoning ordinance that would BAN FRACKING.  It is my understanding that Steve Vegliante and the board are more than willing to issue a proclamation against FRACKING, but that is inadequate.  If you oppose fracking, PLEASE ATTEND this important board work session meeting and SHOW YOUR SUPPORT for a zoning ordinance that would ban fracking in our community.  Also, please pass this message along to ALL YOUR FRIENDS. If you need more information or directions please call me on my cell at (845) 346-6523

The weather...Tomorrow beautiful, Sunday crappy and raining all day, and MONDAY...FABULOUS!  Can someone bring me over a chaise lounge so I can sit in front of my building and TAN TOMORROW...we are talking bright, sunny and almost 70 degrees.  By the way, great time to get tomatoes in the ground if you want to be one of the first in downtown Mountaindale to be slicing vine ripened maters!

Main Street observations...Time Warner was out and about today, their crew putting in what appears to be brand new internet service over at Janet's Radiant Yoga studio.  Sure her clients will be happy to visit a Yoga studio with WIFI capability.

Rumor has it...and at this point, it is just RUMOR that we here in downtown Mountaindale might be getting a convenience store...more on this HUSH HUSH story as it becomes available.

For those who are wondering...the Mountaindale Inn is officially opened for the season, and the first "Open Mic" night this past Wednesday was a HUGE SUCCESS!  If you want to stay current on events at our FIRST RESTAURANT BAR in Mountaindale, join the new Facebook Group!  Tell Kelsey that Sherwood sent you!  Hope too see everyone out again this upcoming Wednesday night, and remember...at the Mountaindale Inn, there is NEVER A COVER CHARGE on Open Mic Night!

Rumor has it that we have new banners coming...find myself wondering, what happened to the Banner Design Contest?  Seeing as the winnings from the "Train Garden" project from last year that Sullivan Renaissance awarded second place to are paying for these new banners, just wondering how it is that I missed the CONTEST? Who WON? Is the new town slogan suggested by our own talented local artist, Raymon Elozua  being incorporated?...so excited to see these banners appearing around town, and of course anxiously awaiting the newly rebuilt/designed flower boxes as well.  Mountaindale in late spring when the flower boxes are out really looks quaint, and of course the hanging baskets incorporated as a part of last summers winning Renaissance Project really made Main Street POP.

New Historical Signage For Rails to Trails Corridor

With all the new businesses in town, with all the talk of more coming, find myself wondering if any other local business owners and business people would be interested in forming a "Downtown Mountaindale Business Association"?  Thinking if we could get it up and running before next February that it would be nice to apply for a Sullivan Renaissance Beautification Grant since there seems not to be a project going on this year.  Love to see Anderman Oil, Robinhood Realty , Hospitality Green and some of our other major hamlet businesses such as the Mountaindale Inn run with such a project/business group.    With the newly finished "Historical Signs" and the almost completed brochure for our "Rails to Trails" corridor, this seems like and opportune time for such a group to come into existence.

One last local news reminder!....GIRL SCOUT COOKIES are coming in supposedly this COMING WEEK!  I already have my own case ordered, but maybe I should get a second one!

Tuesday "News on The Run"

To Sullivan County...This Bridge Needs Repaired

OK, tired of brisk, lets get on with Spring time.  The sun is out, the sky is blue, but with the wind it is still a bit nippy out, the weather seeming more like a day in mid March than a spring day in April.  For the week, word of the day seems to be cloudy, so look for rain in our forecast here in downtown Mountaindale New York.

Seems that our little hamlet is about to become the travel to place for food if the scuttlebutt in town is all for real.  Mountaindale's first restaurant, Ed's Mountaindale Inn is just about to open for the season...they have been serving lunch this week as they do a shake down of the place.  For the coming summer season Ed is boasting a brand new lunch menu, and the bar restaurant is looking pretty good with a complete new coat of paint inside.  If you are looking for a really good burger and a cold beer after a round of golf, stop by and say hello.  For all our local musicians, look for the Wednesday Night Open Mic to be back up and running around the 18th of April!

Around the corner, seems that Chef Robert over at Uccelli's Restaurant also has some big plans afoot.  First up, a new 16x16 deck is going to be built so that patrons can dine outside.  His establishment will now be open six days a week, and serving brunch on Sundays, as well as a lunch menu Tuesday through Saturdays.  I've seen the menu, and there are some tasty treats waiting to be tried.  Wish he would get a beer and wine license, but if you are looking for some really good food with a Northern Italian flair, dinner at his place is worth the trip over.

In other news of a local nature...Fracking is on the "Town of Fallsburg" agenda for their April 16th work session.  I would encourage everyone OPPOSED to Fracking to show up and encourage our board to amend our zoning rules/regulations to ban fracking within the geographical footprint of our town including or small hamlet of Mountaindale.  

Drove by Skyway on my way to Ellenville, and it seems they have started the task of getting the campground up and ready for the season which opens on May 1, 2012.  There is also camping available here in our hamlet at our own Mountaindale Park, and then there is also Morningside.

Also, please join the petition drive asking Walmart to stop purchasing Monsanto's genetically altered sweet corn.  The petition can be found here.   It is also suggested that you not buy sweet corn (corn on the cob) from Walmart until such time as they assure the buying public that the corn being brought in is not grown with Monsanto's genetically altered seed.

Sunday "News on The Run"

Hurleyville Vaudeville Show Was ROARING SUCCESS!

It's Sunday here in Mountaindale, the sky overcast and threatening rain at some point in the day, though the temperatures seem comfortable.  Weather forecast calls for rain today and tomorrow with the sun finally peeking through on Tuesday.  Meanwhile, Google has changed how they display things when you do a search for weather, putting their own weather report at the top of the page, and the change is not for the better. They need to stop trying to be all things to all people, need to stop putting themselves on the top of the search pages.  It was much better when you did your search and got the top three weather links right at the top and could choose the one you wanted.

Having been raised most of my youth in the midwest, specifically in Ohio and Indiana, am a big Ohio State fan, so am very disappointed that they gave the game to Kansas last night, and will not be playing for a National Championship...barring some strange miracle in consecutive games for Kansas, look for Kentucky to be crowned National Champions.

The Trayvon Martin case is no reason to eliminate "Stand Your Ground Law"....Jesse Jackson and others are saying the Trayvon Martin case is the perfect example of why the stand your ground law should be done away with, and I disagree.  Not saying the shooting was right, not saying it was wrong...that is for the police, and maybe a jury to decide.  However, one tragic case is not reason to do away with a law that is fair and just.  IF someone is attacking someone, they should have a right to defend themselves, including if necessary the use of deadly force.  

Expecting a victim to turn and run is absurd...if a person is attacked by a person bent on committing a crime, then the criminal if shot is getting what they deserve.  A few years ago I as attacked, had my right wrist severely broken...if I had a gun that day, I would have used it, and would have felt no remorse at killing my assailant.   I spent over 14 weeks in a cast, spent months after that in physical therapy, and there are still certain emotional issues regarding that attack.  Some might disagree, but think victims, think would be victims should be allowed to use whatever force is necessary to stopped an attacker, and as one who has been attacked, it is very tempting to get a license to carry a concealed weapon, and if I lived in a "Stand Your Ground" state, not only would I carry a weapon, I would use it if I again found myself being physically attacked by a criminally minded person.

Secret early morning meetings between Newt and Romney, Mitch McConnell all but endorsing Romney on the Sunday morning talk shows, and everyone it seems suggesting it is time for both Newt and Santorum to stand down...here is my question.  Just how much MONEY are Newt and Santorum going to make after they stand down, and just what kind of BACK ROOM DEALS OF BEING WORKED OUT?  Don't kid yourselves folks...these last two remaining candidates are MAKING DEALS that will be very lucrative for both themselves and their relatives, and maybe it is time to pull the curtain aside and expose the wizard of Oz for what he is.

Sunday "News on the Run"

Today is not the day it was yesterday, though the weather outside is still almost spring like with just a bite of winter around the edges.  There is a slight chance of some flurries later in the day with temperatures dropping down to 19 degrees...the great days ahead this week will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a predicted high on Wednesday of 61 degrees...shorts any one?  Unfortunately, unless something changes, the forecast for next Saturday's Second Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade is iffy at best with both rain and snow in the picture.  Let us hope that the weatherman is wrong on that one.

Sunday "News on the Run"

In Republican News...For the Good of the Party, perhaps it is time for Newt Gingrich, and perhaps even Rick Santorum to stand down.  With a huge win in Washington state this weekend, seems that Scrooge McDuck (that would be Mitt Romney) is strengthening his claim on the mantle of Republican Presidential candidate for this fall's election.  Super Tuesday of course is going to tell everyone a lot, and we can make some predictions here at the Mountaindale After Dark blog.  If Newt loses Georgia, look for him to fall into line and suspend his campaign.  If Santorum does not win Ohio, there is a good chance he also will suspend his campaign UNLESS Newt loses Georgia.  Congressman Ron Paul...he's collecting delegates, and may just stay in till the convention so his folks have some say in the Republican Platform.

How LOW can you go...everyone knows that I love Girl Scout cookies, have ordered at least one case a year for decades now.  So imagine my shock this morning when I read on CNN that two men in Texas held up Girl Scouts, and STOLE THEIR COOKIE MONEY!  There should be a special place in hell for any one that would steal money from a Girl Scout.  The thieves got away with about $200, which the Girl Scouts involved are responsible for.   Police are investigating.

In "Who Cares News", Whitney Houston is still in the news...the reason...someone took one last picture of her in her casket.

My thought of the day...why are we spending all this money on state of the art tech toys, paying extra fees to have the fastest internet speeds if every time we want to read a news story we have to watch a 30 second commerical?

IT's FUGLY Outside, and "News on the Run"

Not often one gets to make a Leap Day post, let alone one in the middle of a snow storm.  If you are out and about in this nasty weather, please drive carefully, and get home safely as it is FUGLY out there.  The weather forecast for the next few days is not pretty, temperatures will be up and down, the snow sometimes turning into freezing rain, with the occasional bout of SUNSHINE...like I said, it is FUGLY out there.

"News on the Run"

Mr. Money Bags scored wins in both Michigan and Arizona yesterday, but both Gingrich and Santorum are doubling down heading into SUPER TUESDAY.  If Newt fails to deliver a win in Georgia look for him to be out of the running, with Santorum then hoping to stay in a bit longer hoping to pick up Gingrich's followers and thus have enough to force Romney into a brokered convention.  However, would think Vegas odds after yesterday see the smart money betting on a Obama verse Romney Presidential Election this fall...is that is the line up, my vote is going to go Obama's way.

In North Korea, like father like son...Seems that North Korea is now willing to halt nuclear activities, and stop launching missile in exchange for FOOD...now, I am not for people starving to death, but we have already danced this dance before, and North Korea's NEW LEADER has done nothing so far to show the world that he can be trusted any more than his father could be.  Verify FIRST, then start sending in food supplies.

"Today's announcement represents a modest first step in the right direction. We, of course, will be watching closely and judging North Korea's new leaders by their actions," Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday before the House Appropriations Committee.

For those of us who fondly remember watching EVERY EPISODE of the "The Monkee's", teen idol Davy Jones has passed away at 66...as a side note to this, saw him perform live in Jacksonville Florida some three decades ago...cannot believe I am that old, nor can I believe he died at such a relatively young age.  In his time he was as big, if not bigger than Whitney Houston...wonder if he will get his EIGHT DAYS of FAME on CNN now.

Last but not least...AVOID BIG BROTHER....Google is about to take away more of our privacy, but there is a fairly simply way around it.  When on YouTube, Google and other services, MAKE SURE YOU ARE NOT SIGNED IN!  That should keep the Data Whores at bay for awhile.

Sunday Weather, and "News on the Run"

Get out the winter clothes, move the cars off of Main Street here in downtown Mountaindale, and run to the store to lay in some staples...both Winter and snow are back.  Look for temperatures as low as 11 degrees outside....brrrrrrr, and we have snow in the forecast three days in a row.  It's going to be a COLD Valentine's day folks.  For more weather news, visit here.

"News on the Run"

Top news story today is the death of Whitney Houston...yes, she was beautiful, talented, possessed the  voice of an angel that covered five octaves, and her death is a tragic end to a troubled life.   Yet, we have to be honest, she threw what she had away, blew her fortune, and her star had faded long ago...yet, the media seems intent in her death to paint her as a saint, a star bigger than life that we should all be grieving...if one did not know better, you would think she is a female Michael Jackson that needs to be a deity now that she is gone.  From Fox News:

Whitney Houston, who reigned as pop music's queen until her majestic voice and regal image were ravaged by drug use, erratic behavior and a tumultuous marriage to singer Bobby Brown, died Saturday night, Fox News confirms. She was 48.

Next up...Mitt Romney had a big day yesterday of sorts, winning a straw poll, as well as the Maine Caucus with Santorum running a respectable second.  Looks as if the conservatives are finally accepting their fate...in short, they cannot find that "anybody but Romney" candidate they hunger for, Santorum a likable enough true blue conservative who unfortunately is not presidential material...not that Mitt is either.  Newt...forget about it, he really should just fade away into the night...the word TOAST comes to mind.

The big news out of CPAC was not Romney winning, but Palin shooting a warning shoot over the bow of his ship, telling him straight up, "Work harder for the Conservative Vote, or face light voter turn out in November".  Well Sarah, as someone who has no intention of voting for Romney or any other Republican Candidate you folks put up this year, I am liking your threat...guessing here no one has told you that your star is FADING?

Syria is now using human shields on their tanks, placing captured activists underneath them as they rampage through the city of Homs...meanwhile, world government are standing by watching the slaughter, wringing their hands as if there is nothing any of them can do.  More disturbing...what are Syria's neighbors doing to help?  NOTHING!  Where is Turkey, where is Saudi Arabia?  Syria is in their back yard, do they not have a moral obligation to do more than sit on the sidelines DISCUSSING the matter?  Lets balance all this...almost no news about Syria on the Sunday Morning news, but PLENTY ON WHITNEY!  Lets get our priorities straight.

Friday "News on the Run"...Anonymous Scores Another BIG ONE....Hacks FBI Call To Scotland Yard

Welcome to a beautiful Friday afternoon here in downtown Mountaindale...considering it is February, we really cannot ask for a more pleasant day outside with the temperatures near 40 and not a cloud in the sky...that is some fabulous weather.

Anonymous has scored another big win against intrusive and obstructive big government by managing to hack into a conference call between the FBI and Scotland Yard where Anonymous was the TOPIC OF DISCUSSION.   Be honest folks, it is hard not to root for these guys...they personify the fight between the one percent, and the 99 percent oppressed by them.  Not surprisingly, neither the FBI or Scotland Yard want to talk about it.   can watch the video if you like...we have embedded it for your viewing pleasure.  Listening too the call, keep in mind it is both England and American taxpayers paying for the prattle.  You would think that Scotland Yard would know better than to call members of Anonymous "a bit of an idiot" and "a pain in the bum".

Jobless rate drops to 8.3You can bet this is welcome news at the White House, though this news is not near good enough for all of those Americans who are still out of work. 

Will Iran attack the west? That would be a grave mistake on the part of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.  If push comes to shove, Allied Forces could probably level say Tehran in less than 24 hours.

Tuesday "News on the Run"

This weather just does not know what it wants to do.  From almost zero a few days ago too 43 today, and temperatures rising to as much as 45 by Friday of this week!  Hard to get acclimated to winter when it just is not staying around for more than a day or two at a time.  Which might explain the really horrid colds that seem to be going around here in downtown Mountaindale.

"News on the Run"

Top story today...poor old Millionaire Mitt Romney and his tax returns.  Must be nice to have so much money invested that you earned 42 million dollars in just two years...even nicer when all that money is taxed at just 14 percent!  Even a better bargain when you also realize he is not having too pay Social Security, Medicare, Unemployment or Workers Comp taxes on any of that money.  Figure it out folks, and with your Social Security Taxes, Medicare/Medicaid and other taxes, you are probably paying around a 30 percent tax rate, while poor old Mitt (who thinks he is ONE OF US) is paying a rate of just FOURTEEN PERCENT!...and we wonder why the rich are getting richer while more and more of us are falling out of the middle class?  Ask yourselves folks....do we really want a President of the United States who has to live on a paltry $36,000 a day after taxes?

56,000 JOB OPENINGS!  Seriously folks, these top performing companies are hiring, having on average 700 ob openings each.  So, dust off those resumes and start sending them out.  Let's see, 56,000 people without jobs get jobs...that only leaves 19 million more people needing work for everything in America to be hunkydory again.  Maybe Mitt can create some more jobs by destroying companies as a corporate raider?

Is your hair already shampooed, do you find yourself with ZERO Social Life?  If so, this is your lucky night.  You can turn on the TV, and at nine PM find wall to wall coverage on almost every channel as President Obama delivers his "State of the Union" address to the nation.  Thinking it would be nice to have the president start off with something honest like, "I'm going to level with you folks...the state of the union sucks right now, especially if you are in the middle or lower class."

Brrrrr...It is SO FREAKING COLD....and of Course, Friday "News on the Run"

Brrrr....DANG, it is seriously cold outside, especially with the howling winds blowing down Main Street, the tattered awnings outside my window fluttering in the breeze.   Not saying it is cold out, but my car doors were frozen solid...took 10 minutes to get in.    This weather will seem like a CAKE WALK by tomorrow night when it is supposed to go down to single digits...as in 2 DEGREES!  So much for that theory I was working on about a mild winter.

To my local friends (Mike, Mark, Patty and Iris) who gave me venison this year, thank you so very much.  Having two small steaks for dinner this evening, and it is ever so tasty.  Pan cooked, some capers, Bermuda onion, herbs, spices, and some Merlot...OMG...so simple, yet so very good...did I mention garlic?

A local recommendation...went over to 2 Good Guys Auto Repair the other day to get a couple of new tires and a oil change.  Great folks, great work, and the price was very reasonable as well.  Give them a call at (845) 434-4107...they do towing to (nice to know in winter)...the towing number is (845) 428-0174.

Reginald Williams

2 Good Guys Auto Repair

49 Roosevelt Ave.

Woodridge, NY 12789

Friday "News on the Run"

The big news for those of us here in New York (besides the weather) involves FRACKING.  Seems that the US EPA beat the comments submission deadline by a scant three hours, and they have quite a bit to say, much of it ANGERING THE INDUSTRY.  Seems like many of us, they do not feel some of the rules go far enough, and specifically, they are calling for LARGER setbacks for our drinking water, while the industry (big surprise) wants even smaller set backs when it comes to protecting our water.  When I ponder the industry's wishes, why does the phrase, "Take a hike" jump quickly to mind.  Could it have anything to do with the fact that I know they are LYING to us?

In his harshest attacks yet on Mitt Romney's job creation claims, Newt Gingrich LAUGHED at him today in Miami...in breaking news...When Newt Gingrich smiled, his face cracked.  In all seriousness, even though I despise Mitt Romney, sure he is having the last laugh knowing that Newt is not n the ballot in his own home state of Virginia where he has lived since becoming a perennial Washington, DC insider. 

A report that made me smile...seems that Apple, who has no clue when it comes to customer service (waving at RW), also has no problems with its supply chain (manufacturing locations) having some pretty horrid work place practices!  Maybe it is time everyone seriously considers boycotting Apple till they can get their customer service and production issues resolved in a HUMANE FASHION?

Wednesday "News on the Run"

Sorry for the absence...been dealing with a few personal problems, such as having my living look like a scene from a bad movie while a section of my ceiling is repaired and re-plastered...fun, fun, fun.  Enjoy today's weather as it starts getting ugly this evening, and Thursday through Saturday does not look very good at all with freezing rain, sleet, and all around miserableness.  All in all though, we have been pretty darn lucky so far this winter...2.5 months still to go though, and we know we will get buried in snow before too long.

Wednesday "News on the Run"

The big news is no real news at all...Mitt Romney won in New Hampshire last night, and this morning all the pundits are on the airwaves telling all the Americans in the other 48 states that our votes don't matter, that the Republican Primary is now all but over.  The real news perhaps, is that controversial candidate Ron Paul came in a very STRONG second...on too the proverbial firewall, South Carolina.

The most trending of story of the morning...seems pot is actually safer for you than cigarettes are...in fact, one CNN reporter this morning compared it to Yoga, explaining that the breathing techniques in both smoking pot and Yoga are similar.

OMG...Hostess, maker of the Twinkie, that delicious cream filled sponge cake that would still taste fresh after a nuclear explosion is in BANKRUPTCY!  A sign of the times, carrot eating, tofu nibbling, drink a veggie smoothie healthy people putting a national treasure at risk of being no more...OH WOE IS ME.  The silver lining....we can all go out and buy a few cases and stick them down in the basement knowing they will still be there ready to eat when the grand kids come over.

 

FAA needs to just butt out and let the Whooping Cranes fly...OK, the this years grounded whooping cranes are going to be allowing too finish their migration to Florida, but the FAA never should have interfered to begin with, and needs to JUST BUTT OUT and let this group take care of saving this endangered species.

There is today's episode of "News on the Run" coming to you from DOWNTOWN Mountaindale NY.  I need to go put some sockies on and get on the road....just in time for tonight's ugly weather, having an oil change and putting two new tires on the car.  Have a great day everyone.

Winter is Here, and Thursday "News on the Run"

Winter Snows Coming Folks!

OMG, winter seems to have officially arrived here in downtown Mountaindale...a walk outside is like a walk in an icebox, the temperature down around 26, seeming even colder with the brisk wind blowing.  With snow in the forecast from later today until Sunday (New Year's Day) it seems as if we are destined to see our first official snow of the season.  The weather has changed, and looks like we all need to hunker down.  For those with plans for New Year's Eve, keep an eye out on the weather, and if you are out and about be safe, and DRIVE SOMBER...it is always the right thing to do when you have a Designated Driver for the night.

Interesting factoid of the day thanks to CNN...a baby Polar Bear will nurse for its first two years of life.

Thursday "News on the Run"

Changing political winds are blowing out in Iowa...seems that Newt is no longer the choice in the "Anyone but Mitt" camp, with Rick Santorum's hard work in the state seeming to pay dividends of a sort.  This sets up a three way race between Mitt, Santorum and Ron Paul with the rest of the pack also ran's who will begin dropping out of the race with Michele Bachmann the most likely to be gone first, followed by Newt who is BROKE.  If the Iowa Caucus unfolds the way it is now looking, it is a pretty good bet in Vegas that Mitt Romney will gone on to win the Republican Nomination.

In news from the front, Oakland Police had again moved in to dismantle the newest Occupy Oakland encampment.  One has to wonder what Spring is going to bring as the weather makes it easier for those disenfranchised citizens of America to gather in LARGER GROUPS.

State of Colorado petitions DEA to reclassify marijuana.  Lets be honest here folks...Marijuana does have RECOGNIZED medicinal properties, and in fact the DEA has actually licensed two cannaboid based drugs for use.  The current DEA classification says that cannabis has no medicinal value, which is why the criminal laws for possession, use and distribution of it are so strict...the time has come to LEGALIZE marijuana for medical reasons.

Arizona School District's Mexican Studies class found to be OUT OF BOUNDS!  In the judge's decision that could cost the school system over $15 million dollars he stated the classes were being taught, "in a biased, political, and emotionally charged manner,"  Furthermore, the judge ruled against the classes saying,  "Teaching in such a manner promotes social or political activism against the white people, promotes racial resentment, and advocates ethnic solidarity, instead of treating pupils as individuals,".  It is pointed out here, that E-Verify coupled with SECURE SOUTHERN BORDERS would in time make such lawsuits moot.

The Holidays Are Upon Us...And Tuesday "News on the Run"

Just five days till Christmas, and Hanukkah (Chanukah) starts today...the Holidays are upon us, and for the most part you can feel the spirit of the season everywhere you go with people smiling more, and hello's falling off the tips of tongues with ease. Often times wish there was a way to take some of this kindness of heart and soul and spread it out more evenly throughout the year. The world would be a much better place if we could.

The weather outside is still comfortable for this time of the year, though the weather forecast for the rest of the week is looking iffy...ICE PELLETS tonight and tomorrow...ice pellets? WOW, that just does not sound good, and snow is in the forecast for both Friday and Saturday. Not what I want to hear knowing I have to drive on Friday over to Peekskill and back. The good news for children...looking like we will have a White Christmas, which as we all know is ideal weather for Santa and his sleigh.

Looking to bake two more batches of cookies here today including my Hungarian Butterhorns, so for those who love trying new recipes, look for a cookie recipe (or maybe two) later on in the day.

Tuesday "News on the Run"

For a really beautiful story, check out "Rolling with Zach", a new show on the Oprah Network. You have to love a story where the main character refuses to be defined by their disabilities, and Zach is just such a guy. This is a real feel good story.

Under "tacky rots the brain but sells, how about Redneck Wine Glasses? I am serious, and this novel idea has caught hold to the tune of $5 million dollars...I find myself wanting a set for my Tiki Bar out at camp. Hats off to Carson Home Accents for this wonderfully irreverent creation.

In not unexpected political news, seems the more Newt opens his mouth, the more he drops in the polls as Republicans remember why it was he was run out of town as Speaker of the House. Course, then there is that little matters of a Family Values party electing a man that has been married three times, leaving his first two wives in less than honorable conditions.

Forked tongued Boehner is itching for a fight on Capital Hill today...seems he wants a one year extension of Payroll Tax Holiday instead of the two months voted for in the Senate...how about this Boehner...you get the 12 months, but the forced early approval of the Pipe Line project that you forced through along party lines is stripped out of the bill in Committee?

Personal Commentary on Life...one has to love "Instant Karma". Thanks for this great song and message John Lennon.

Another Rainy Day In Mountaindale

As August rushes by, summer all too fast coming to an end, we are again in for a deluge of rain here in Mountaindale over the next few days with severe rain predicted from now through Tuesday. Not sure about anyone else, but ready for some SUNSHINE here. So, if you are planning on going out today, make sure you take your umbrella with you, and wear your rubber rain shoes if you have them.

Your Local Weather Forecast



Picture of the day...

What a Beautiful Weather Week We Had in Mountaindale

Have to love waking up to shorts weather on Valentine's Day...not sure, but think we were in the high forties here in Mountaindale on the 14th, and other than a few dips, the day time temperatures were pretty pleasant all week. I went for several walks with my camera, and thought I would share a couple of my favorite snap shots. If you have a favorite Mountaindale area photograph you would like featured here, please email it and we will be sure to share it with our readers.

Found these glasses as I crossed the bridge out of town heading up Church Street...the one below was taken off the other side of the bridge.