According to Jim

Troy September 11th Memorial Dedication and Memorial Service

2011-09-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday people worldwide will mark the Tenth Anniversary of one of the most horrific events in our Nation's history.

In Troy we will mark the anniversary by unveiling and dedicating the Troy September 11th Memorial and conducting a memorial service.

When we began to plan this memorial, just nine months ago, our purpose was clear. To construct a monument to honor the innocent lives tragically lost and to honor the response of our local Troy and Rensselaer County emergency response crews, which included the Troy Police and Fire Departments and the 42nd Infantry located in Troy.

We would like everyone to join with us on Sunday September 11th at Noon for the ceremony.

It has been an honor to be involved with this project and I am humbled by the positive response and support it has received. We are confident everyone will be pleased with the outcome.

Below is a copy of the invitation and program of events for Sunday. Also, please bring your own lawn chair, there will be no seating available. Thank you.

September 11, 2001 - From my perspective

2011-08-26T10:11:00.000-07:00

On September 11, 2001, I was attending school at West Chester University outside of Philadelphia. That fall semester I had only one class on Tuesdays, Business Finance, that concluded at 9:45 am. I was a commuter, I lived off campus. I remember vividly the two individuals who stopped and asked me as I made my way back to my car, “Are classes still in session?” I had no clue what they were referring to and answered “yes” both times.

Once I got to and started my car I learned from the radio what had just happened in New York City. As the magnitude of what I was hearing began to sink in my mind started to race. I had several family members that worked in and around the World Trade Center; I have several family members that are members of the NYPD. I started to think of them and my family in Troy NY. I had no way to contact anyone at that moment. As I raced home to my apartment, making a 30 minute trip in 15, the reports were getting worse. Reports of several unaccounted for planes still in the air with several assumed targets. We were under attack; it was the first time in my life where I felt truly vulnerable.

I listened on the radio while I drove of reports of a plane crash in Pennsylvania, reports of some form of explosion at the Pentagon, and the collapse of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. When I finally arrived at the apartment and rushed inside, the only thing I was able get on the phone for what seemed an eternity was “All circuits busy please try again later.” I turned on the TV and watched and witnessed what millions of others were. I can’t describe the feeling that overcame my body, except for total numbness. Then just as I got through to my parents and my dad answered the phone, the North Tower began to collapse. I was witnessing something that will forever be burned into my mind. I remember sitting silent, there were no words. Then it set in and all I could do was be assured that my parents, brother, and sister were safe, Melissa was safe, and I was safe. It took several hours, long hours before we knew our extended family members in New York City were all safe.

I couldn’t stop watching, emotion building up. Questioning how this happens in New York and the United States. It wasn’t long after that I made the decision that I would do whatever I could to assist in the volunteer effort. First I gave blood, donated what money I could afford, then I decided I would assist in the recovery efforts. Melissa and my family were concerned about the safety of going to NYC, but this was something I needed to do.

On Friday morning, September 14th I made the hour and a half trip to New York, dressed in my work clothing, which at the time consisted of construction boots and related clothing. I was accustomed to manual labor, at the time I worked for an electrical contractor while attending school and playing collegiate lacrosse. One memory I have of the drive is, if anyone has ever traveled Interstate 78 from PA/NJ to NYC there is a point where the hill crests and you get your first view of the Manhattan skyline, a view that I seen a hundred times, but this time it was as if I was looking at a different view.

I parked on 34th Street by the Javits Center and headed south on foot to the WTC. It wasn’t long before a rickshaw stopped and insisted on transporting me to the site. Along the way we picked up another volunteer and hundreds and hundreds of “thank you’s” and “god bless you’s” from the people that lined the West Side Highway.

We were let off at Canal St. The man who I rode with turned out to be a union carpenter and left to find his crew. I continued alone. September 14th was also the day President Bush visited the site. Security, which was already heightened, became almost impenetrable. But I was determined. After being sent to five different entry points throughout lower Manhattan, I gained access at the Stuyvesant High School check point. I was in. Volunteers gave me several sets for gloves, a box of dust masks, and a white hard hat. They wished me well and I went on my way.

I don’t think I was completely prepared for what the next 24 plus hours had in store for me visually, mentally, and physically. Unless you were able to personally witness what was happening in NYC first hand you have a different perspective of the events, one that is at a completely different end of the spectrum from those who lived it live and in person. I have never given a detailed description of what those hours onsite were like, but I will say that the moment the President left I don’t think I stopped for more than a couple hours here and there. I worked with the US Marshals constructing a wooden bridge at Vesey St and West St to cover the power and communications cables that were destroyed, I found myself working among the emergency crews that consisted of members of the NYPD, FDNY, and hundreds of others from across the United States on the ‘bucket brigades,’ and when we were relieved we brought food and water to rescue workers. No one ever stopped. Day turned to night and then night to day. We worked tirelessly. We evacuated a few times for unknown reasons, but we all returned to continue.

The afternoon of Saturday September 15th was as beautiful as the morning of the 11th. The site was quiet despite the hundreds of workers and heavy machinery, then the silence was broken by emergency sirens. These were the same sirens that sounded when we evacuated the site previously, but this time it came with an explanation. Officials feared that the Deutsche Bank Building was about to collapse. We rushed up West Street toward Stuyvesant High School and waited for the emergency to pass and when it did only emergency workers and those with union cards in their possession were allowed reentry. Hundreds of citizen volunteers were left outside the gates. Some angry, some relieved, some not knowing what to do. I remember sitting on the curb looking at the ash and concrete dust on my boots and pants, knowing more work had to be done and feeling a little bit restless and peaceful at the same time.

I am honored to have participated and assisted. When I left that afternoon I knew we as a city, state, and country would overcome what had happened. The people I met and worked side-by-side with reassured this in me. There were tears at times, moments when worked halted to honor the fallen, but the resilience and unwavering approach of every individual I met and worked with helped make a 21 year old young man realize what it is all about.

To this day the emotion and memory of this experience is as fresh and raw as when it happened. Our lives changed on September 11, 2001, mine, particularly, was changed for the better.

3rd Annual Children’s Safety Fair Scheduled for Saturday in Lansingburgh

2011-07-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

The North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch will be holding their third annual “Neighborhood Children’s Safety Day” this coming Saturday, July 9th at Powers Park in Lansingburgh prior to the first show of the Powers Park Concert Series.

Several activates are scheduled to educate children and their parents on how to live and play safely. Members of the neighborhood group will be joined by the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department, Troy Fire Departments, Whitney Young Health Services, the Troy Family YMCA, and the Hudson River Fish Out Reach Center for Environmental Health.

Over the last two years over 150 children participated in the program. The timing of this event is intended to coincide with the beginning summer vacation. The goal is to provide the children of the community one last refresher course on how to live and play safely.

This year the event will be held in conjunction with the first Powers Park Concert because the two events go hand-in-hand. The band, Four, consists of Lansingburgh teachers and draw a large crowd consisting of district students and their parents.

Each participating agency will present specific information to educate and bring awareness on how to prevent and deal with the everyday occurrences that children may encounter.

The Sheriff’s Department will be conducting the state-wide initiative - Operation SAFE CHILD, which was created to raise awareness about child safety. The program will provide photo ID cards, which contain fingerprint and biographical data, to individuals under the age of 18. The goal of this program is to record and store the fingerprints, basic biographical information and photographs of children, who are not missing, information critical to expediting the return of a missing child.
The Troy Fire Department will be educating attendees on the best fire prevention practices, how to react in the event of a fire, and how to prevent common playground injuries. Children will also enjoy the opportunity of “touring” a Troy Fire Engine.
Members of Whitney Young Heath Center’s Troy practice will be discussing the preventive dental and medical services they offer locally.
The Troy Family YMCA discussing the summer, youth & teen programs, camps and other activities offered throughout the year at their facility.
The Hudson River Fish Out Reach Center for Environmental Health will be educating everyone about how to take proper precautions while fishing the Hudson River.

For more information please contact Jim Gordon, email jgordon003@nycap.rr.com.

Who: North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch
What: 3rd Annual Neighborhood Children’s Safety Day
Where: Powers Park, Third Avenue side at 110th Street, Troy NY
When: Saturday, July 9th, 2011 4:00 - 5:30pm

Modernize Services

2011-06-30T05:28:00.000-07:00

We live in an age of cloud-based computing, where you can be in your car and reach your desktop computer. It's an age where cell phones can recharge without wires and connecting to other people and information is as much virtual as it is actual.

Troy can improve its overall level of service by more effectively employing technology to keep residents safe and maintain neighborhood quality-of-life. We have first-class municipal services from police and fire departments to code enforcement and the DPW, among others. Yet, there are several ways that we can improve them even more; some complicated, some that would need planning and investment.

First, would be for the city's website to offer a user friendly interface that expands “Action Line” reporting, requesting FOIL-able documents, and overall is a cleaner version of what exists. This can be done by acquiring a content management system, which also enables faster updating by each department head. Troy has a very active and involved community; we need to continue to encourage this. Three and a half years ago I helped co-founded the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch to assist facilitate the resolution of neighborhood quality-of- life issues. We live in a “point and click age” and we need to make it easier for people to “point-and-click” their neighborhood issues to City officials.

Next, City government can improve the way it reacts to neighborhood issues. Troy is dense city with about 14,000 property parcels. To be effective city governments need quick, accurate, and relevant information to address quality-of-life issues, including Troy. As a member of the Troy City Council, I would support adopting the approach of Everett, MA officials.

Earlier this year, they acquired handheld devices and portable printers from a company called GeoTMS. Their product includes “a complete land-management software package designed…to electronically process and track information such as applications, permits, inspections and licenses” according to a press release.

The release goes on to say “Code Enforcement…Fire and Police officers and [other municipal] officials can enter an address in the device or on the web, look at any history of violations and immediately cite or fine an offender.” In addition to these agencies, we may be able to improve the capability of the City’s Assessor office using this type of new technology.

A third, but certainly not the final way, we can use technology to improve government is to enact a city-wide email and text alert system that goes directly to the resident, free and accurately, assuming they opt into it. This isn’t new either. RPI has a text alert system for their entire campus and Watervliet has recently begun an email newsletter service. I have to believe that while perhaps more complex, we can expand these services to anyone in Troy that wants to receive them.

The internet and social networking has altered the landscape of how government needs to connect to the people. These are simple, cost effective ways to address an information gap that might exist among people that use this new technology.

Proactive government allows for a progressive and successful community. A famous quote states there is no Republican or Democrat way to pick up your garbage. However, we need buy-in from city officials that view technology as an effective solution to municipal issues.

Our City and its services will only be as effective as the tools they utilize. We need to continue engaging our residents and provide them with essential details so they can enjoy all the city has to offer. We need to enhance our communication methods while continuing to maintain our traditional ones.

My Busy Summer

2011-06-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! It’s been awhile since I last posted but I have been tremendously busy. Specifically, I have been heavily involved in several community projects: the planning the 2011 Uncle Sam Parade, recently I have been appointed as a trustee of the Lansingburgh Historical Society, working with the committee coordinating the Capital District YMCA Golf Outing, working with the members of the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch (as you can imagine “business” is picking up with summer fast approaching) and also I’ve announced my run for Troy City Council as an At-large candidate. Oh and I also celebrated my 31st birthday on May 23rd.

Yes, you read it correctly; I am running for office again and this time city-wide. I have been asked why I want to do this. I can honestly say it’s because I believe I have something to offer for the betterment of our community. We need individuals who will restore Troy government, specifically the city council, to one that is open and proactive, not reactive or obstructive. We need to establish and maintain a can-do, business friendly climate while providing our taxpayers with the highest quality service a municipal government can provide.

There is a toxic tone and too many fractured relationships that currently exist both within our government and with the residents and professionals of our community. This cannot continue to exist. Troy is currently positioned for great things. Over the past several months we have read stories and learned about the great multi-million dollar development projects happening across the city. This needs to continue and furthermore we need to be more aggressive in implementing initiatives that will decrease the cost of government, improve the quality of life for our taxpayers, and entice people and developers to Troy.

I am excited to share that our campaign committee has begun to detail how we will accomplish this. Just this past Monday, I announced the formation of a Sustainability Task Force that has begun to map out a set of initiatives that will reduce the cost our taxpayers are burdened with for waste disposal and energy consumption of our municipal properties. For example, the city of Troy expends $1.2 million dollars a year to dispose of solid waste, garbage. We will show just how implementing new recycling methods, to include composting of food and yard waste, will reduce this cost. Couple this with smart use of alternative energy sources like wind and solar for our municipal buildings to make them more efficient to operate will be less-costly than our current practice and just as important more eco-friendly. Nationwide municipalities are implementing ecologically intelligent plans its time that Troy goes Green as well. To learn more about our proposal or to get involved CLICK HERE

This is just one of the top priorities I will work hard to have enacted upon being elected to the city council. Several other goals include to continue to increase the marketability of our city as an attractive option for private and commercial investment; further develop our parks program; and most importantly, to continually enhance the safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods.

More detail will be provided as our campaign rolls along. I look forward to discussing the issues with as many residents and Troy advocates as possible. Whether it is long term initiatives such as neighborhood renewal in South Troy or everyday issues such as street cleaning or winter plowing (all of which are part of my top priorities) I want to know what is on your mind. I grew up in South Troy, my parents still reside on 2nd Street south of the Canal and I own a home with my wife, Melissa, in Lansingburgh. I have a keen understanding of what both these communities as well as those on the East Side face. I pledge that these areas will not go overlooked while I serve at the pleasure of the taxpayers of Troy. If you know who I am, you know that I have worked tirelessly with numerous community groups and people across this city with the specific goal of improving the city we all love. I look forward to being granted the opportunity to continue to do so as a city councilman.

You may follow my campaign via Facebook by “Liking” by page at www.facebook.com/gordon4troy or by visiting my campaign website, www.JimGordonForTroy.com

A busy week ahead in Troy

2011-04-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

Three items on the agenda for this week are geared to support three distinct and worthy causes happening around the Collar City.

On Thursday, April 28th the Troy Flag Day Parade Committee will be holding a fundraiser for this year’s 44th Annual Parade. Due to major cut backs at the state level the parade committee has publically stated that they may be short on funds to put this year’s parade on. I personally can relate to this as a member of the Uncle Sam Parade Committee we have been finding it tougher to raise funds to host our parade. Costs continue to increase while a constricting economy causes our donors to make tough decisions.

If you are interested, to aid in the effort to raise the money for the parade, the committee is planning a fundraiser from 5 to 8 p.m. April 28 at Revolution Hall at Brown’s Brewing Co. The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and music by John & Terry of Sound Spectrum. The fee for the event is $20 per person. The 44th annual Flag Day Parade, the largest tribute to our nation’s flag, is set for Sunday June 12.

On Troy Night Out! Friday, April 29th the Troy September 11th Memorial Committee will host a fundraiser in support of their efforts in constructing a memorial in Troy. “The World Trade Center lecture “9-11-01 Was 10 Years Ago” presented by Lester J. Millman. The Record Community Lab located at 501 Broadway, will host the event. Light refreshments will be served. The committee is asking for a $20.00 Suggested Donation (proceeds will benefit the Troy September 11th Memorial). Space is limited so if you are interested please RSVP to me Jim Gordon at 365-2270.

The World Trade Center lecture “9-11-01 Was 10 Years Ago,” by Lester J. Millman with photographs taken by Mr. Millman from the first night of 9-11-01 through the first few days of the disaster. These images are quite exclusive as they have rarely been shown before and no other photojournalists were permitted into the area. Ground Zero site was a crime scene and thus closed by the NYPD to the press.

Mr. Millman was the official photographer to Governor George E. Pataki from 1997 to the end of his term 2006. The images are public domain but not widely available. And, each image in the program was made by Lester Millman.

A lifelong photojournalist Mr. Millman has covered 3 wars, 7 U. S. Presidents over 50 terrorist attacks and countless stories of everyday life. From 1973-80 he worked in Israel for Time, Newsweek (cover), the Jerusalem Post and most major American and European publications. He has won awards from the POY in Missouri and the World Press Photo Contest, Netherlands.

Then on Saturday, April 30th the city of Troy will celebrate the citywide Earth Day celebration. Dozens of community groups and hundreds of volunteers will take to the streets of their neighborhoods cleaning up and performing a number of beautification projects. For a complete list of the citywide projects CLICK HERE.

Our group, the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch will be focusing on two projects. The first is an exterior painting project at the Lansingburgh Boys and Girls Club and the second is a beautification project at the Historic Lansingburgh Village Cemetery. We will begin our projects at 9am, if you are interested in lending a hand please contact me at 365-2270.

Lotto's subsidies for education

2011-04-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Many people, including myself, have always wondered what the financial relationship between the New York State Lottery and education is. Recently, WNYT issued a report with some interesting figures. In 2010, lottery sales totaled more than $7.8 billion! $2.6 billion of this went to fund education in NYS.

Here's how it breaks down:

For every $1 spent on the lottery, $.34 goes to education, $.58 ends up in the pockets of the lucky winners and $.06 is allocated to retail commissions.

Local District Allocations:

Troy $7,324,914.37
Albany $12,171,940.24
Schenectady $16,657,100.67
Shenendehowa $9,977,686.19
Bethlehem $5,473,766.79
Niskayuna $4,617,544.85

I reached out to WNYT for a more detailed break down of the Troy allocation, whether or not this was combined for both districts or just the Troy district. A quick look at the both districts budgets didn't simply answer the question, therefore, lets assume its combined. A little over seven million dollars is granted to our two local school districts. To put this in perspective the Troy School District's budget is approx $95 million while Lansingburgh's is approx $38 million. The local benefit is just under $150 per Troy resident, utilizing the new 2010 census number 50,129. The lottery subsidies serve its purpose but it's not the windfall that some believe it to be in "funding education."

Effective Code Enforcement is... NICE

2011-03-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

Code enforcement is one the essential services offered by our city. According to the City of Troy’s website “The Bureau of Code Enforcement administers the city's building construction, permitting and housing inspection programs. Under these programs the Bureau is responsible for the enforcement of all state and local codes as well as the city's zoning ordinance. Typical functions of the Bureau include issuance of building permits, performance of construction and housing inspections, vacant building inspections and issuance of certificates of occupancy and compliance.” In other words code enforcement keeps our city safe, clean, and orderly. As you can imagine it’s a tough task keeping an urban environment with numerous socioeconomically challenged neighborhoods. There are many reasonable influences that cause “code” issues. The list includes reasoning’s such as the current economic condition, a transient population, absentee landlords, and an aging housing stock.

The federal government through, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) facilitate the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for local municipalities. The program's purpose is the development of viable urban communities for low-and moderate income persons through the provision of the following: 1) Decent housing, 2) A suitable living environment, and 3) Economic opportunity.

The City of Troy receives approximately $2.5 million annually from HUD. These funds are allocated to numerous citywide projects that fall within a target zone. The target zone is determined by the city administration through the development of a 5 Year Action Plan. The target zone must be within HUD’s qualifying census tracts which are determined through the census and based upon income.

One of the programs that is facilitated and paid for utilizing these federal CDBG funds is called the Neighborhood Improvement through Code Enforcement program (NICE). The approach this code enforcement program takes is aimed at achieve results in a timely manner. Over a specific period of time City Code Officers, whose sole responsibility is to conduct this program, will inspect the exterior of every property within the target area. If a violation is found the property owners will be notified instantly.

Once notified of the violation the property owner has 30 days to begin the repair, cleaning, or painting work that is needed for the property to be brought up to code. Property owners who fail to respond to City notices of violation will be ticketed after 30 days, brought to Code Enforcement Court, and be fined appropriately.

There have been 10 target areas from South Troy to Lansingburgh over the past eight years. Last year, our neighborhood group worked with Mayor Tutunjian to secure the NICE program for 2nd Avenue and 5th Avenue in Lansingburgh from 116th Street to Northern Drive. Personally, I believe the effectiveness of the program speaks for itself. Below are the statistics per target area, you can draw your own conclusions, however.

From the data shown below, for the total program history, there have been 3,526 properties inspected. Initially, just 42% of them where in code compliance (1,471 properties). Within the 30 day notification period 1,055 of those 2,055 found in violation started work to be come code compliant. At the end of the day, realizing that the data is still incomplete for the 2010-11 target areas, 72% of the properties inspected within the target areas are code compliant, a 71% increase from the initial compliance properties and this number will grow as the current programs expire. These are great results that will become greater!

	Beman Park-Hillside	S. Lansingburgh - North Central
Year	2003-04	2005-06
# properties inspected	390	628
# initially comply	138	156
% comply	35%	25%
# respond or began work w/in 30 days	158	115
# court appearance notices sent	93	127
final # in comply	335	524
% final in comply	86%	83%

	5th Ave tgt blocks	South Central
Year	2005-06	2006-08
# properties inspected	44	530
# initially comply	18	291
% comply	41%	55%
# respond or began work w/in 30 days	16	134
# court appearance notices sent	10	45
final # in comply	34	477
% final in comply	77%	90%

	S. Troy Osgood	Burgh 2nd & 5th (104th -116th St.)
Year	2008-09	2008-09
# properties inspected	249	317
# initially comply	128	171
% comply	51%	54%
# respond or began work w/in 30 days	76	88
# court appearance notices sent	34	51
final # in comply	205	259
% final in comply	82%	82%

	S. Troy	North Central
Year	2009-10	2009-10
# properties inspected	511	334
# initially comply	193	156
% comply	38%	47%
# respond or began work w/in 30 days	132	107
# court appearance notices sent	113	90
final # in comply	433	263
% final in comply	85%	79%

	S. Troy Hillside	Burgh 2nd & 5th (116th St.-Northern)
Year	2010-11	2010-11
# properties inspected	261	262
# initially comply	97	123
% comply	37%	47%
# respond or began work w/in 30 days	131	98
# court appearance notices sent	33	27
final # in comply	TBD	TBD
% final in comply	TBD	TBD

Potpourri: Childhood Cancer Benefit, "Transport-a-Hero," Budget Public Hearing

2011-03-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

I wanted to spend a moment to write about three positive initiatives I recently learned about happening in our own community.

First, a neighbor of mine, Don O’Brien, is raising funds for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Don’s goal is to raise $500 that will go to benefit childhood cancer research. The funds raised and granted through St. Baldrick’s is 100% volunteer driven through people like Don. Once Don reaches his goal he will be shaving the hair from his head during a celebration at the Park Pub at Frear Park on March 27th. To learn more or to donate please click here! As of this writing Don is $96 shy of his goal!

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Secondly, the Commission on Economic Opportunity has recently launched their “Transport-a-Hero” program. Through this program local veterans will receive free transportation to their medical appointments. The transportation service is provided on an as needed basis by community volunteers. CEO is currently seeking individuals who would like to volunteer their time to transport “Our Hero’s” to these appointments. Click the image below for more information.

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Finally, this Saturday March 19th Senator Roy McDonald will be hosting a Public Hearing to discuss the 2011 New York State Budget. The hearing will be held at Knickerbacker Middle School in Lansingburgh from 10am to 12pm. This is a unique opportunity to discuss and learn about the financial situation of the state’s budget with the Senator and senate finance staff. Click the image below for more information.

Police and Schools

2011-03-07T08:42:00.000-08:00

Many thoughts and opinions circulate around this topic. When anyone questions or poses change to the “school districts” it normally sparks a fair amount of debate and rightfully so. If there is any one single item in society people hold dear to them, it’s the education and safety of their children. Everyone wants what’s best for their children; my parents did and so did yours. The recent announcement of the Troy Police Department reducing the presence of the School Resource Officers (SRO) at the schools sparked such debate. My wife and I do not have any children and I cannot speak from that perspective, but I can speak as a person who has been involved in the community, served as a member of several school/community forums, and as a graduate of the Troy School District.

When I first learned of the SRO program a number of years ago I could not believe what I was hearing. Really, you need cops to patrol Troy schools? I wondered what happened from when I graduated, which wasn’t that long ago, to now, that requires the presence of uniformed, armed, police officers. I was stunned. But as I learned more, took stock of the changing social climate in the city, and became more involved, it began to make sense. From then on I became a believer. I personally know a few of the current and previous SRO’s. I hear the examples of how their intervention has positively impacted the at-risk youth and the community as a whole through educating kids and parents, and preventing incidents. I personally support this program.

When I was first learning about SRO’s, I asked how this program was funded and what is the relationship between the school districts and the City? I was told that the City was reimbursed with grant monies for the officer’s time while they are in the schools. However, the grant had an expiration date and over the life of the grant the reimbursement monies decreased until the grant is exhausted, thereby placing the burden of the expense on the City. The grant is now exhausted and has been for a period of time. Three Troy Police Officers work, while school is in session, at Lansingburgh, Doyle, and Troy High. Many people have said to me, “How can anyone put a value on the children’s education and safety, by saying we can’t afford police in our schools?” That’s a valid question, but what about my previous question of, “What is the relationship between the school districts and the City?” What happened to the school security service and the “no nonsense” administration policies that were in place when I was in school? We pay more in school taxes every year than we pay in city and county taxes. What does or should this afford us? There are administrators in our schools that earn a great deal more than our mayor and for the most part we have no say in who governs our schools. Yes, there is an elected school board of education, but honestly what level of influence do they hold? Isn’t it fair to say that our schools are not performing at a desirable level? Doesn’t anyone see an issue with both schools districts rushing bond votes through worth tens of millions of dollars and the majority of these projects, at each school, revolve around renovation of the athletic fields, converting them to artificial turf? What happened to priorities? What happened to public accountability? If the education and safety of our city’s youth is top priority, I believe it is incumbent upon the school districts to get their house in order.

This isn’t a political issue, currently all sides are calling for reform, and Governor Cuomo is calling people to task. Just like any business you can’t fix the problem just by throwing money at it, which has been the practice far too long. We created a governmental agency, the NYS Lottery, to assist in the subsidization of the public school system. All that was created was a beast of a public entity and all that has been achieved is furthering people’s gambling addictions.

It would be a shame if these officers were removed from the schools. It would be a shame if the school districts didn’t take the bull by the horns and say, “How can we make this happen, together?” Rather than play the victim. People should be tired of school districts playing the victim, tugging at the strings of the public’s heart; all while rising our taxes by three or more percent a year on a regular basis, constantly underperforming. It’s time for them to step up to the plate, clean up their act, and act accordingly. The school administrators should be held to the same standard we hold our elected officials on the city council, our mayor, and administrators such as our police chief. Work together and resolve this issue.

Absentee Landlord and Vacant Building Management

2011-02-28T05:23:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing this wicked winter has thought us it is the importance of our city’s Absentee Landlord registration and our Vacant Building registry. As the inches upon inches of snow have continued to fall coupled with the occasional rain/ice storm many neighbors have been asking, “Who is going to clean that sidewalk?” Often referring to a building that sits vacant or one owned by a known out-of-town owner. A well facilitated registry program is the answer to the question. The data that is required to be submitted by the property owner to the city allows city officials quick access to all pertinent contact information to seek a timely remedy to an issue that may arise.

In 2008, the city adopted a Landlord Registry. This program requires all property owners who live 20 miles or more outside the city limits to register their property with the city. The property owner is required to provide all pertinent contact information for themselves and for their required property manager. The process to register is simple. Either in person or via mail the owner has to complete an application which can be found on the city’s website or at city hall. Ninety days after taking ownership of the property this application needs to be completed and on file with the city. (Note: all properties owned by out-of-town landlords must have been registered within 90 of the passing of the registry in 2008.) The application fee of $150 will be waived if the property owner registers within these 90 days. If the owner does not register, the $150 fee is required plus an additional $75 fee for each 60 day period until the property is registered. Any fees that remain unpaid during a calendar year will be added to the tax levy of the affected property. Should a property remain unregistered the city can being action against the property owner and should they be found in violation, the owner will be subject of a fine up to $500. This registry provides the city with effective means of contacting and seeking remedy to any issue that may occur at a non-owner occupied property. In the past tracking down an owner or the owner’s representative presented city officials with challenges, especially with those who reside well out of the area. Owners are required to register their property every three years.

The city’s vacant building registry has been in place for a number of years now, but recently it has been updated. To be considered vacant a building must: A. be unoccupied and not secured or not boarded in compliance with the standards set forth in the city code; B. be unoccupied and not maintained in compliance with the standards set forth in the city code; C. be posted as "Unfit for Human Habitation" by the City of Troy Bureau of Code Enforcement; D. be illegally occupied; or E. be unoccupied for a period of time over three months. Vacant buildings can pose a serious health and safety issue to their neighborhoods. If they’re not secured and maintained properly they could be a breeding ground for unsavory activity and if they’re not well maintained they could fall victim to continued vandalism and severe dilapidation. Just as the landlord registry, there is a fee schedule. The city’s desire is to have these properties occupied and valuable assets to the community. So, an aggressive fee schedule has been developed to encourage owners to occupy them in a timely manner. The first year registration fee is $250, which along with the registry application and a plan for the property must be submitted to the city within 30 days of the building be declared vacant. Each year thereafter the registration fee increases: 2nd year is $500, 3rd year is $1,000, 4th year is $1,500, 5th year and each succeeding year is $2,000. Note that vacant building fees for buildings of 5,000 square feet or greater shall be doubled.

Why are programs like this important? They compel neglectful property owners to be responsible for their properties. City officials now have the most current information for the property owners and their representatives enabling them to effectively communicate in the event of an emergency or violation. Well maintained and occupied properties improve neighborhoods, increase property values and marketability, and prevent neighborhoods from falling into despair. They help provide all of us with the quality-of-life we desire.

Specialized CDTA Service for Senior's and Special Need's Patrons

2011-02-17T07:17:00.000-08:00

Recently, I became aware of a specialized service offered through CDTA. The STAR (Special Transit Available by Request) program is a paratransit (alternative mode of flexible passenger transportation that does not follow fixed routes or schedules) service that provides origin to destination transportation for seniors and people with disabilities who are unable to ride a regular fixed-route bus. STAR is available in areas where CDTA's regular route service is provided. A reservation is required with a one way fare of $2.50 ($5.00 round trip).

This service follows the existing CDTA bus service routes and will make pick-ups and drop-offs to any location within three quarters of a mile of a CDTA fixed route on the same days and times. For example, if a CDTA bus operates Monday- Friday from 6AM - 7PM, along a specific route, STAR is available within three quarters of a mile on either side of that route during those same hours. All STAR buses are ADA compliant and the service allows for personal care attendants with proper identification to accompany the individual free of charge.

Given the guidelines of this program, Troy seniors and those with disabilities can travel the majority of the Capital Region at a low cost. Whether it be for trips to the doctor, shopping, or to visit family or friends CDTA has made their service assessable to everyone.

If you believe you or someone you know could benefit from this service contact CDTA to learn more by calling 518-482-2022 or by visiting the STAR website by clicking here.

Troy Family YMCA - Reach Out For Youth Scholarship Program

2011-02-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

Each year the Troy Family YMCA embarks on a fund drive to support their Reach Out For Youth Scholarship program. This program is supported through the donations from members of the Troy community. The money that is collected allows the YMCA to provide scholarships to children and their families across the City of Troy who otherwise would not be able to afford YMCA programs and services. Each day you will find children from South Troy, Lansingburgh, North Central, and everywhere in between enjoying swim lessons, daycare services, after-school programs, or a visit to Camp Chingachgook on Lake George. This program assists in getting the kids off the streets and into a community center where can develop core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility; values they will have forever.

I often hear from my neighbors, “We need more for the children to do.” A program like this provides that answer. Like all things it takes money. Last year the Troy YMCA collected over $150,000 which was then returned to the community in the form of scholarships for kids to enjoy the Y’s services. This is amazing stuff, but requires your help.

This is an on-going fund drive and, if you choose, you may pledge in one of several ways. The simplest is to make a one-time monetary donation of any amount. You can also sponsor the children by donating monthly. You can give a child the chance to make new friends, learn how to swim, and more with a YMCA membership for a year for just $9 a month. You can give 5 teenagers the chance to attend a three-day rally where they’ll learn leadership skills that will benefit them forever; this is just $21 a month. You can give 10 kids the chance to join a youth basketball program where they’ll develop team-building skills that will help them stay in school and be successful in life. This is just $42 a month. There are also several social fundraisers scheduled where you can donate to the program, as well.

For those of you who are still shopping for a special someone’s gift for Valentine’s Day, there will be a jewelry sale this Saturday, February 12th from 10am to 12pm at the Troy Family YMCA featuring Latebloomers Jewelry Design. All proceeds will benefit the Reach Out For Youth program. Then on Tuesday, February 22nd from 5pm to 10pm at the Recovery Room Sport Grill on Hoosick Street 15% of all customer bills will be donated to the Reach Out For Youth program. So, stop by with your family and friends to support the in YMCA in their mission.

To learn more or to donate contact Alecia Bilpuh, Membership Director, of the Troy Family YMCA at 272-5900 extension 2210 or email abilpuh@cdymca.org.

Locally, we have several great community centers that provide outstanding programming and services for our city’s youth. Those include the Lansingburgh and Troy Boys and Girls Clubs, the CYO, the Sunnyside Center, and the Ark. Each of these organizations, like the YMCA, serves a purpose in their specific communities. If you support their programming, great, please continue to do so. If you’d like to support the YMCA’s youth programming as well that’s even better. Either way, it’s the support of the youth in Troy that matters.

Report on the Issues - Part 2 UPDATED

2011-02-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

I’m still receiving a good number of responses to my “What matters post,” and the “Report on the issues” post. So much response that a part 2 of a, “report on the issues” is warranted. Again, keep the questions and comments coming for future posts.

Weekly Household Garbage Collection
Our neighborhood group fields a number of complaints regarding weekly garbage pickup. The primary complaints revolve around when individuals put their garbage out and about individuals not utilizing a secure receptacle (covered garbage can). Some people may think either one of this issues are not a big deal. Well tell your neighbor that when the wildlife (skunks, raccoons, squirrels, dogs, cats, birds, and rats) tear the bags apart in search of a meal. City ordienance states that household garbage should be placed out to the curb or in the alley after 7:00pm the night before your pick up day, or before 6:00am the day of your pick up and that garbage is to be placed in water tight wooden, plastic or metal covered containers or heavy duty plastic bags tied at the top or specially treated paper bags.

For more information or if you are unsure of your scheduled garbage day or if you have any questions concerning pick-ups, please call DPW 270-4579.

For more detail on what and what isn't considered "household" garbage click here.

For the detailed City Ordinance click here.

Parks
Troy’s parks are a major asset to our community. We are lucky to have a diversified abundance of parks city wide, each offering a different atmosphere, opportunity, and experience. A health parks program will be vital to the continued revitalization of our city, offering individuals and families with a verity of options and venues. In the past I have written about our city parks and the continued investment by the City with Park and Rec’s Department. Making and keeping our parks accessible, clean, and current should be a priority. Recently, I submitted a grant application to CDTA on behalf of the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch for bike racks for the Knickerbacker Ice Rink and Knickerbacker Pool. If chosen these two sites will receive new bike racks for the children and their families to safely store their bikes as they enjoy the countless opportunities Knickerbacker Park has to offer. Additionally, in the near future, our neighborhood group will be a part of an exciting announcement concerning a pocket park in our community.

I have blogged about of parks program in the past, Troy's Wonderful Parks, and to learn more about the city’s parks and their locations click here.

Home Incentives and Economic Development
One way to assist residents in the continuing effort of removing blight and assisting to stabilize the community is through municipal incentive programs. These programs are geared to improve the appearance of both residential and commercial properties and entice people to settle in Troy. Think of this as the city investing in itself by utilizing grant dollars from the state and federal governments along with other sources. These incentives help current residents maintain and update their properties, as well as, help to draw individuals into the city. There are different qualifications for each program, some are income based, and some are not. These are programs that everyone should know about and take full advantage of because they will not only benefit the individual, they will benefit the community as a whole.

To learn more about the city’s Housing and Home Assistance programs click here.

To learn more about the city’s Economic Development Programs and Incentives click here.

Snow Removal
This is a red hot issue at the moment. I debated whether or not to comment on this one because it’s hard to specifically point to the issue, but I thought I’d give it a try. No one can deny that this winter we have experienced a substantial amount of snowfall, of which the majority fell over short period of time. Since Christmas we have had in the neighborhood of over 45” of snow, just storm after storm. Our city DPW and DPU workers are doing their best with what resources they have to keep up with the demand, but with so much to do, snow continues to accumulate. What some people don’t realize is that Lansingburgh is plowed by the Department of Public Utilities and the remaining areas of the city are treated by the Department of Public Works. This examples just how much of a strain a simple service as plowing places on our city workforce. When you have had several significant storms in a row, as we have this year, it adds additional strain on the manpower and equipment. I believe what we are experiencing with snow plowing/removal recently is caused by a couple things. One is, simply, the amount of snow that keeps falling. The city seemingly appears to be focused on keeping up with ensuring city streets are passable. You need to manage the storm and its outcome first. Snow removal isn’t happening as quickly as people would like, but in reality the machinery is "multitasking" performing several functions. Let me example… the large dump trucks that would be utilized to haul away the snow are being utilized to plow streets or they’re dispatched to other sections of the city for removal. Every pickup truck is out plowing and salting and with a limited amount of city workers, there’s only so many hours they can personally work before a rest break is necessary.

People are quick to point out the response of other municipalities on their own streets. These muni’s, unlike Troy and maybe with the exception of Albany (who is in another class of their own), receive a certain level of assistance from their county’s highway department and from the NYS DOT. In Troy, we don’t have that benefit; the burden rests on the city manpower and equipment. Also, when we take stock in other municipalities roads are we seeing the side streets and the less traveled residential roads or just the main corridors? I agree we could do better; there are always ways to improve processes and procedures. Should Troy work out a better approach for the future? Absolutely, but at this point in time I believe we all need to be patient and do our part. Believe me I’m as frustrated as the next person. This is not an excuse or reasoning from the city, but purely my own perspective. I’m not attempting to defend or minimize. I started this post by saying it’s hard to pin point the reason(s) for our current experiences. My intent is to give you something to think about. I feel just like you when I walk outside and see my block and those that surround it, but they are just a couple of the thousands of blocks citywide. But let’s look at the bright side, the days are growing longer and we’re just days away from pitchers and catchers reporting to baseball’s spring training camps. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, you are excited about this because it signifies warm days are on the horizon.

If you want to report a sloppy street, use the See Click Fix section of the Troy Records website or call the Troy DPW.

2011 State of the City Address

2011-02-03T07:01:00.000-08:00

Putting all the political drama of recent times aside, I think you’d have to agree with me that Troy has become a better place to live, work, and invest in over the past 7 years. Each time a mayor and his administration come into office you would expect them to progressively move their municipality forward, it’s their job. Each past Mayor has and each future one will do so as well with differing levels of success. With less than 11 months remaining is his second and final term as Mayor; Harry Tutunjian can look back and honestly say, “I’ve made a difference.” Troy is truly in a better position to capitalize on its future. People may be quick to point out a few setbacks, but after all they are human, like you and I. Many tough decisions had to have been made, many where popular and some not so, but knowing the Mayor as I do I know each decision was made in the best interest of the city and its residents. You may not agree with me and I respect that, everyone is entitled to their own individual opinion.

Tonight Mayor Tutunjian will deliver his 8th and final State of the City address prior to the Regular City Council meeting. Given the significance of this year’s speech, one would assume he will outline the progress Troy has experienced over the last 7 years, while outlining his agenda for the next 11 months and how this will impact the future of the city.

The council meeting begins promptly at 7pm at the Christ Church United Methodist at 35 State Street in Downtown Troy. The Mayor's SOTC will be the first item on the agenda. I’d encourage you to come and listen, after, if you have a question or concern talk to the Mayor yourself following the meeting. Don’t rely on the media and sound bites from politicians to help frame your thoughts and opinions. This is our city and our government, participate in it.

Report on the issues -- a response to what matters most.

2011-01-28T12:23:00.000-08:00

I have received a good amount of feedback from a recent blog where I posed the simple question, “What matters most to you in Troy?” Everyone has their own thoughts and opinions on what could be done to better our city and neighborhoods. A lot of the responses I received via email and through Facebook had a lot to do with quality-of-life issues and how to solve them. Most of the issues questioned have some form of law already on the books. I’m not claiming that it’s well written, enforced, or even the solution to the problem, but rather that something does exist. First, I’d like to introduce the issue, provide a little commentary, and secondly, provide the actual law that is in place to deal with the issue for you to learn more. I have left my views of a solution out to keep the response objective.

Curfew
Until recently the city’s curfew ordinance was not strictly enforced. Last year when then Assistant Chief Tedesco became Troy Police Chief, enforcing the curfew was one of his top priorities. Since then several curfew stings have been conducted with great success. Over the past few years our neighborhood group has seen a rise in the amount of nuisance crime and vandalism on properties and vehicles. Under aged school children have been pointed as the culprits of these crimes. In January Chief Tedesco was the speaker at our neighborhood meeting. He stated that the curfew program will continue and will be targeted at areas with the most complaints. If you believe your neighborhood should be considered for Curfew enforcement let your Community Police Officer know.

To better understand the limitations of the Curfew Ordinance click here learn more.

Vacant/ Abandoned Buildings
Vacant/ abandoned buildings are a plague for most post-industrial, urban municipalities. The empty buildings are a sign of the times. A host of reasons including lack of industry and owners to occupy them add to the problem, but primarily it's due to economic conditions that they remain empty and rot. These building are both commercial and residential. As a city you can only hope that if the building becomes vacant or abandoned the current owner secures it, continues to pay their taxes, and registers in on the city’s registry. If these buildings aren’t properly cared for they become major health and safety issues for those within the neighborhood and could negatively impact the value of the neighborhood. We all can debate what we each see as the solution, but in the day-to-day operation of a city we need to rely upon strict code enforcement to react to the issue. The city’s code pointedly defines vacant/ abandoned buildings and how they’re addressed.

Click here to learn more about the definition, fee schedule, securing, etc. You’ll want to read ss.141.18 through ss.141.21

Absentee Landlords
This has been a hot button issue over the last several years. These are individuals with little or no ties to our community owning and renting property without a care of who they rent to and they don't appear too concerned about the condition of their property. A lot of the issue lies in the fact that there is too much available housing in the city and not enough renters. To minimize the damage the property owners rent just to curb the loss they are taking. This results in a lack of care for the property and the community from both the renter and the property owner. Why? Because the owner isn’t making enough money to meet expenses and in turn not reinvesting in the property causing the renter not to care either. You can take this same example and reverse it to read, the renter doesn’t care causing the property owner not to either, but either way I’m generalizing. There are a whole host of issues here. No matter how you dice it the phenomenon of absentee landlords are a tremendous drain on our quality-of-life. But remember, not all are bad, some have great records and employ great property managers.

In 2008 the city adopted an Absentee Landlord Registry, to learn more about what it is and does click here.

Litter
This is another unfortunate reality that we find most prevalent in urban environments. It happens; all we can do is our best to set an example that this behavior won’t be tolerated. It can be found in our Alleys as I have discussed previously and it can be found on our streets. Recently, the Troy Dept. of Public Works instituted a litter enforcement program, for information on this please contact the DPW at 270-4579. If you haven’t read the book Fixing Broken Windows you should. It discusses the broken window theory, which as defined by Wikipedia is “a criminological theory of the normsetting and signaling effects of urban disorder and vandalism on additional crime and anti-social behavior. The theory states that monitoring and maintaining urban environments in a well-ordered condition may prevent further vandalism as well as an escalation into more serious crime.” This concept has been implemented across the country with great success. This was the driving force behind Mayor Giuliani’s take back of the NYC streets. In laymen’s terms, if a particular area is continuously littered with trash, someone needs to ensure to keep it clean and more often than not the area will improve over time and remain in a positive state. Or you can do as I did one day and personally confront the issue, read the blog post here.

As with everything else, the city does have a Litter ordinance, to learn more about it click here.

As I said these were the most common concerns noted. I enjoyed writing this post so if you have any other concerns or comments about the “issues” please send them over. I can be contacted via email at mailto:jgordon003@nycap.rr.com

Vote for Downtown's $250,000 Opportunity

2011-01-26T14:19:00.000-08:00

It’s Wednesday, January 26th, do you know what this means?

It means you only have 5 more days to cast your vote for the Troy Downtown Collaborative’s Pepsi Refresh Grant. Why is this important? Because if the TDC’s grant finishes among the top two vote getters they will receive $250,000! With the Refresh Grant the TDC will invest in the revitalization of the Downtown by engaging the many students that call Troy home while attending our colleges.

The TDC states:

“We recognize that our small, historic post-industrial town will always have a struggling economy, unless we can tap into the talent and energy of our local student population, and grow our Downtown. Encouraging local business creates jobs and reinvests dollars into our community.”

Over the past year Pepsi has been rewarding community based groups with millions of dollars to fund betterment initiatives. In 2010, the Contemporary Arts Center in South Troy won $50,000 from the Pepsi Refresh Grant Program and in December the Uptown Initiative had a strong showing in their effort and they plan to try once again when the Pepsi program relaunches in March 2011.

Be sure to finish the month strong and vote every day. The TDC’s grant is currently sitting in 8th position, meaning it only has to move up 6 more spots to be funded.

Remember there are three simple and easy ways to vote:
1) Sign in Via Email: http://cl.ly/40Iv
2) Vote From Facebook: http://cl.ly/3zuT
3) Text 105518 to Pepsi (73774)

You can vote once per day over the next five days! Thank you for your support!

Troy's September 11th Memorial

2011-01-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

First, thank you to everyone who provided feedback on my last post, "What matters most to you about Troy." I will respond to some of your points, questions, concerns in my next post later in the week.

* * * * *

Today, the following article regarding a September 11th Memorial in the city of Troy I wrote appeared in the Troy Record. To date our coordinating committee has been actively meeting and planning. A location has been identified and design is well underway. Both these items will be announced publicly very soon. In the mean time, if you haven't read the article it's below for your enjoyment and if you would like to contribute the information to do so is below as well.

Memorial Logo Courtesy of Ralph Renna

Troy's Treasures: Building a Sept. 11 Memorial

Sept. 11, 2011 will mark the 10th anniversary of one of the most significant days in our nation’s history. The events that occurred that early September morning will shape our nation for generations to come. This day has come to be known as Patriot Day, a day of remembrance. Each year we take time to honor those who were lost in New York, Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania; with those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country in the defense of freedom.

To mark this anniversary and to provide a lasting tribute, the members of the Uncle Sam Parade Committee have invited representatives from the local veterans association, police and fire departments, and the City or Troy to join them on a coordinating committee to design, raise funds, and build a Sept. 11 Memorial in the city. The committee has received the support of Mayor Harry J. Tutunjian and is actively planning and fund raising for the memorial.

In the days that followed that fateful September day the response by the general public and our local public safety agencies was outstanding. What began as a rescue mission and soon turned into recovery required hundreds of man hours to sift through the rubble that was the World Trade Center. Almost immediately hundreds of people descended on Lower Manhattan to lend a hand to the effort. Personally, I spent nearly 30 hours over the weekend of Sept. 14 working with other civilians and the US Marshals to recreate the infrastructure that was destroyed as the towers fell. Members of all our local public safety departments jumped to action and made their way to New York City. Members of the City of Troy Police and Fire Departments, along with many local agencies answered the call and for that, a part of this memorial will be dedicated to remembering the local response.

“We will never forget,” this is the mantra repeated in tribute to the tragedy. We will never forget the innocent victims, especially those who were members of our community in Troy and Rensselaer County. We will never forget the bravery of our young men and women who when called to war unselfishly put themselves on the line to defend our country. As a community and a country we have a lot to be thankful for and remembering, honoring, and celebrating these events and these individuals is just the right thing to do because it provides us with perspective. Why should we construct a Memorial because it is our responsibility to do so. We owe it to those that sacrificed and suffered, we owe to those who will come after us to help them understand, and we owe it to ourselves. As a nation and as a state we survived and became even more united. Wasn’t the immediate response of patriotism heartwarming? It appeared that every house on every block and every car antennae had an American Flag proudly on display. We will not forget these events and the September 11tMemorial of Troy will be a proper and respectful remembrance for generations to come.

Time is of the essence with less than nine months to complete the project. The committee understands the significance of this project and is committed to achieving each milestone on schedule. To properly mark the anniversary the Parade Committee has rescheduled the 36th Annual Uncle Sam Parade to the following Sunday on Sept. 18 so that on Sept. 11, 2011 they can host a memorial dedication and service marking this 10th anniversary. Between now and then, as a community, we have a lot of work to do.

We are actively contacting various members of the community seeking your support. The committee’s goal is to primarily fund the construction of the memorial through the use of private dollars. If you would like to contribute to the memorial please mail it to: The Uncle Sam Parade Committee Sept. 11th Fund, PO Box 109, Troy, NY 12182. The Uncle Sam Parade Committee, Inc. is a non-profit corporation with federal tax-exempt status under the provisions Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. A portion of the memorial’s design will include a memorial walkway. Individuals and groups will have the opportunity to sponsor a paving brick. The pavers can be engraved in your name or in honor or tribute to a friend or loved one. More information on the walkway will be made available soon.

For up-to-date information on the Memorial join our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/troy911memorial or to learn about corporate sponsorships email us at troy911memorial@gmail.com.

Let me hear what matters most to you about Troy

2011-01-20T08:21:00.000-08:00

I routinely find myself in various venues throughout the community serving different roles while there. I started and still spend the majority of my volunteer time working on neighborhood “stuff” with a neighborhood group I helped create and organize in Lansingburgh. Everyone I come into contact with in the community has a different take on what matters mean most to them. Issues from the north may not be the same to the south, east, or west.

I’d like to open the communication channels and hear what the readers of the Troy Record and my blog have to say; let the thoughts on your mind flow. Tell me what you believe matters most in Troy, how would you get from point A to point B on the issues that our City faces today or in the future. This is one area that a lot of us continue to work hard at, getting our friends, family, and neighbors more engaged in the community they live in. Got a tip or a general comment, let me hear it. All constructive thoughts and ideas will be utilized to improve our surroundings. And please keep it constructive, no personal attacks or slander, this accomplishes nothing. If you do not feel comfortable leaving your thoughts as a comment, you may email them to me at jgordon003@nycap.rr.com.

Thanks for participating.

Friendship renewed: Friends of 112th Street Dinner

2011-01-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

I'm back and Happy New Year to everyone!

We are just little over a month away from one of the biggest fund raising events held annually in the city of Troy. The Friends of 112th Street will be holding their annual dinner party, which they have been doing since 1978.

On Saturday February 26, 2011 the committee and hundreds of community members will renew their friendship at the St. Augustine Hall. I have personally attended this event for a number of years and let me say its one most entertaining events you’ll have the opportunity to be a part of. For a $35 donation you will receive a dinner and beverages, and a show unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The committee puts on skits while roasting each other and everyone else that might appear on their radar. It is a hilariously fun time. Additionally, each year members of the community are honored for contributions and achievements they have made. The committee honors: a Man of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, Veteran Awards, and Sports Awards.

As I previously mentioned this is a fund raiser with the proceeds from the event returned to the community. The Friends of 112th Street have supported and donated to community based programs, events, and individuals who have experienced a tragic event in their lives such as being displaced by a fire.

I would encourage you to visit www.friendsof112thst.com for more information and to learn how to purchase tickets for the event. You will want to buy them soon because each year the event sells out well in advance of the party. And I’m sorry to say ladies, but only men are invited to attend the event. I didn’t make this rule up so please don’t hold anything against me. This is a great evening that serves a great purpose.

Be Safe this New Year's Eve!

2010-12-29T06:13:00.000-08:00

This isn't going to be the typical don't drink and drive, have a designated driver on New Year's Eve post. I want everyone to go out have fun and celebrate the end of what was hopefully a great 2010 and celebrate the beginning of 2011. But do it smartly. There is a program locally that takes the burden off you, the celebrator, and your family and friends, it's called the Netters Fund. The Netters Fund is a Not-for-Profit Fund that will aid in the Education and Prevention of Drunk Driving. The Fund was established by a friend of mine, Mark Balistreri, when his wife Annette “Netters” Nichols Balistreri was tragically taken by a drunk driver in 2005.

If you're going to be out an about in Troy this Friday evening/ night take full advantage of the Netters Fund "Safe Ride Program." Through this program the folks at the Netters Fund have teamed up with numerous establishments in the Capital District to offer you a safe and sober ride home. These places will proudly display the safe ride decal in their window indicating their participation (as seen on the right). All you need to do is ask the bartender about the program, they will assist you in getting a safe ride home. This is a free service, funded through sponsorships and donations from community members. So, go out have a blast, but do it smartly and locally at a "Safe Ride Program" participant.

To learn more about the Netter Fund and the "Safe Ride Program" visit www.netters.us for more information.

Also, please take a moment to listen to Troy City Councilman Dean Bodnar's comments on the importance of practicing what I'll call "Safe and Smart Celebrating."

Happy New Year to everyone, I hope 2011 is a prosperous one for you and yours.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!

2010-12-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas came a little early yesterday for over 65 children at the Whitney Young Health Center in Troy. Our 2010 Toy Drive culminated with a pizza party and a visit from Santa to help distribute the gifts. Seeing the smiles, hearing the excitement and laughter all causes me remember back to my simpler days and what the holidays meant to me as a child. I still enjoy Christmas, I look forward to the season every year, but it’s a little different now. It’s a magical time and as you grow it’s one the few memories you’ll carry with you from year-to-year. If you have the opportunity to spread a little holiday cheer in one’s day, do it, the benefits are far reaching. Always remember what it's all about.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday’s to you. Enjoy your family and partake in the holiday spirit. In closing I’d like to quote one of my favorite Christmas stories, “Welcome, Christmas, bring your cheer. Cheer to all Whos far and near. Christmas Day is in our grasp so long as we have hands to clasp. Christmas Day will always be just as long as we have we. Welcome Christmas while we stand, heart to heart and hand in hand.”

The Hard Work Pays Off: A Community Groups Review of 2010

2010-12-20T07:47:00.000-08:00

It’s amazing that once you step back from your daily grind and think what actually has been accomplished over the past year it’s actually quit refreshing how much positive has been achieved. This is the case for our neighborhood group, the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch. This past fall the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch celebrated its third anniversary of actively addressing the quality of life issues that exist within our neighborhoods. I believe it’s fair to say our group experienced a positive, constructive, and successful year once again.

Numerous issues concerning code enforcement, trash/litter, speeding, drug activity, vandalism, rowdy neighbors, and prostitution where reported, addressed, and resolved due to the diligence of our members and the exemplary work of our community police officer Chuck McDonald and our city partners.

It’s experiencing results like these that forces one to ask, “Why aren’t there more people getting involved?” Through our members reporting, our monthly guest speakers, and the special events our group participates in the spirit of “community” is growing each and every day.

Our group meets every second Tuesday of the month from 7 to 8:30pm at the Lansingburgh Boys and Girls Club. Stop by some evening and see what we are all about. On average 40 people attend to report issues, hear what is happening in the community, and to learn from our guest speakers.

Below is a list of our speakers and group events from 2010:

January: Now retired Police Chief Nick Kaiser provided an update on the TPD’s operation and a Lansingburgh neighborhood update.

February: County Executive Kathy Jimino and Randy Hall, Commissioner, Rensselaer County Department of Social Services discussed the social services offered through the county and explained the mechanics of how the department and services work.

March: Bob Aiken of the New York State Office of Real Property Services, along with the City Comptroller, City Assessor, and Mayor Harry Tutunjian gave a presentation on the process behind a reassessment and the general outcomes. Also, Deb Carey, Crime Victim Liaison from Sexual Assault & Crime Victims Assistance Program for Rensselaer County provided us information on her organization.

April: We broke the group into three smaller groups with a speaker who focused on specific issues. The speakers were: Officer Chuck McDonald focusing on crime/policing issues; Dave Sheeran focusing on code related issues, and Donna Muckle focusing on DPW issues.

Also, in April our group spearheaded Lansingburgh’s Earth Day efforts. We focused on four locations this year:

Location 1 – our main focus was on the 112th St. Kiddie Park on 4th Ave. We will be cleaning, mulching, painting, and some planting.
Location 2 – Lansingburgh Historical Society’s Melville Park
Location 3 – Powers Park
Location 4 - Uncle Sam Bike Path

May: Lansingburgh School District Superintendent George Goodwin discussed the proposed school budget and the current school/community forum that several of us were involved in. Then, recently named Troy Police Chief John Tedesco introduced himself and discussed the changes the department will be experiencing soon.

June: Bob Reiter and County Executive Kathy Jimino discussed benefits available for Veterans who reside in the county. Also, Dir. of Rensselaer County Public Safety Kelly Paslow and Deputy Dir. Mark Balistreri to discussed who receives and dispatches emergency and non-emergency calls (270-4411 and 9-1-1) and how it works.

Also, in June we conducted our 2^nd Annual Neighborhood Children’s Safety Day with Pastor Willie Bacote, the Troy Fire Department, Troy Police Department, Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department, Lansingburgh School District, Troy Family YMCA, Whitney Young’s Troy Health Center, and the Troy Bike Rescue. The purpose to educate kids how to live and play safely.

July: Maurice Padula, the Senior Consumer Fraud Representative in the Albany Attorney General’s Office discussed consumer fraud and identity theft. The presentation focused on the types of frauds and identity theft scams directed at consumers that the AG’s office is currently seeing in the Hudson Valley and ways people can better protect themselves from this activity.

Also, in July construction of Phase II of the 112^th Street Gateway Park was completed. Two years ago our group initiated the funding and construction of this new city park.

Also, in July our group performed several boulevard improvement projects. Which included trimming trees and bushes, raking and cleaning the grass areas.

August: Elaine Gerwin from the Troy based, Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) spoke about the programming and programs available to residents.

Also, in August we celebrated National Night Out with a picnic BBQ in our 112^th Street Gateway Park. NNO is a community awareness celebration that brings community groups and public safety entities together to show strength and speak out against crime and drugs.

September: Dave Dean the City of Troy’s DPW Liter/Garbage Enforcement officer explained what his role with the DPW is and how residents can best utilize the DPW. Also, a representative/Project Manager from GAR Associates, the company contracted to assist the City of Troy with the reassessment project spoke about the role their company will have in the reassessment process.

October: Marisa LaFrance, a representative from the Cornell Cooperative Extension Rensselaer County, spoke about the hazards lead-based paint poses and how you can have your home tested and properly addressed. Jim Lance from the Code Enforcement department discussed the progress of the NICE program and the results thus far.

Additionally, this meeting marked our Third Anniversary.

November: We were joined by Lynn Kopka of the Washington Park Association to discuss ways to deal with the growing feral cat issues in our community. Then, followed by an open conversation with our CPO Chuck McDonald about issues in our neighborhoods and ways to resolve them.

December: Was our annual holiday party and culmination of our 3^rd Annual Toy Drive, where we collected an approximate value of toys of $1,000 that will be distributed to the children patience of Whitney Young’s Troy Health Center.

As you can see we’ve been busy this year. Above are some of the highlights of what our group has done. There were numerous other volunteer and cleanup projects we supported along the way. With everyone’s involvement we can only realize more successes. If you’d like to learn more about our group, contact me at jgordon003@nycap.rr.com.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!

Buy Local

2010-12-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

Much has been made recently in the press regarding the financial troubles that the Troy Pioneer Food Co-Op is experiencing. But what is not being reported is the fact that businesses city-wide are feeling the same pain. This is a tough market to operate a small business in. Business owners are being tasked with making tough decisions and operating lean. The worse case scenario is they are closing a locking their doors. This has become the norm. We have lost and are on the verge of losing several businesses in the city, but why is this? Well, obviously the economy is a large part of the issue, but the second part is we as Troy residents are not diversified. There are many types of shops and restaurants from Lansingburgh to South Troy that offer something unique, but many residents are not “trying something new.” Spreading the wealth around would go a long way in helping these businesses out. It’s understandable that maybe there just isn’t enough money to go around at the moment, but if everyone tried a different local restaurant or bought some of their gifts locally this holiday season rather than venturing across the river it would make a tremendous impact.

Buying local is not a new concept. The biggest contributor to local economic success is by practicing this it. As a community we need to support our businesses, we need them. Their success directly impacts each one of us. One of the largest revenue sources for the county and city is sales tax. We, the residents, have some control in the matter. The more we purchase within our own communities, the more we contribute locally, the more we save. In effect we are re-investing in ourselves. The more we contribute locally the stronger our communities become. Our city has an outstanding selection of restaurants and shops. Take advantage of them. And if you’re looking for something that is not readily available within the city, I’m sure you can find it in Brunswick, East Greenbush, or elsewhere in the county. Again, it’s simple in concept.

When it comes time to make your next purchase or enjoy an evening out strongly consider keeping it “within the neighborhood.” The benefits are far reaching.

Horses for Courses

2010-12-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

These are the times we live in. National and international finances are very depressed… unemployment is raging… and in NYS we are worried whether or not NYRA, OTB, and our Race Courses will be operational in 2011. Does this make sense? These are gambling institutions, they pry on the weak and needy offing them a glimmer of hope to “hit it big.” I’m not trying to profile or generalize, but the proof is in the pudding. It’s unfortunate, but venture to any race course (other than splendid and glitzy Saratoga) on a weekday in January and tell me what type of clientele is sitting barking orders at his jockey/horse as it rounds the turn heading for home at Aqueduct. This state has made a very large portion of our residents addicted to gambling, and many are gambling away there last dime. Doesn’t this seem backwards?

Why should NYS taxpayers continue to foot the bill in bailing out NYRA and OTB? We all know that these organizations are staffed via patronage to the Governor, Shelly Silver, and every other NYC special interest. It would appear that these individuals couldn’t run a blow dryer let alone a state authority in charge of gambling revenues. Realistically, NYRA and OTB are bookies and I’ve never heard of a bookie (in areas where gambling and betting is legal) who regularly lose money.

Let me offer my opinion on what to do as a solution. Simply rid these authorities of corruption, disband NYRA and strictly regulate OTB and make it a free market entity. Take all NYRA’s race courses and sell them to the counties in which they operate. Honestly, it’s only those counties and their local municipalities that benefit from them. Saratoga County residents realize a tremendous tax benefit due in-part of the Race Course. Those that live in other counties wouldn’t lose out on the deal because the minimal amount of revenue received through tourism will still be there. Rather, they would benefit from the fact that the taxpayers in their counties won’t be funding the continued mismanagement of the race courses. But, before doing so, do an honest study; can these race courses be profitable? We’re told of all the NYRA tracks Saratoga is the only profitable meet. If this is true, close those that are failures. Taxpayers keep hearing that the downstate race courses need Video Lottery Terminals (VLT’s) similar to those at the Saratoga Gaming and Raceway to make money. How can this be? Stop asking “me” for money to fund a failing operation all while doing nothing about it. My wallet is not your tourniquet.

I know what I have said is not be a popular stance to take publicly. Would closure hurt the racing and horsing industry in NYS, obviously yes, but it would open people’s eyes. If these industries are necessary, then fix the problem. I firmly believe the race courses should be owned and operated by the local municipalities, not cronies out of NYC. But if better management can not be realized and closure is the only solution then adopt legislation legalizing gambling and have VLT’s throughout the state making us some money. I like the races just as much as the next guy, but at what expense? Maybe no racing will make the light bulb go “bing” in people’s minds and snap them out of their Saratoga Summer Time Romance.

FYI... Owning a Pet Comes with Certain Responsibilities

2010-11-24T07:34:00.000-08:00

I have had pets my entire life; dogs, cats, fish, birds, toads, guinea pigs, and I’m sure there have been a few other types of animals, as well. But each one of them where pets, part of the family, loved and cared for. Recently, I’ve been reading and hearing too many stories about people abusing their right to have pets, allow me to explain…

First, what is the deal with people’s attraction to breeding and rising pit bulls for fighting? Just today (November 24, 2010) there is another story in the Troy Record that reveals that the occupants of an apartment in the southern section of Lansingburgh owned 9 pit bulls that were apparently being raised for fighting. Several weeks ago there was a similar story that described how over 20 pit bulls were impounded over several days in Troy. Someone has to draw a line in the sand, strictly enforce the “Dangerous Dogs” ordinance in the City Code to bring people to justice. Hasn’t anyone learned how dangerous dogs can be if put into the hands of the wrong people? A family friend recently had their dog attacked unprovoked by a pit bull in South Troy. The dog and its owner escaped justice that day by way of the alley, but we read these stories all the time, but not just of other animals being attacked, but people, especially children. I’ll go out on a limb here and say that the majority, not all, pit bull owners in Troy own them for some sadistic reason. It’s a fetish for them, a public safety issue for us, and inhumane for the dog.

Owning a pet comes with responsibility. You have a responsibility to care and feed the animal, not to dump it in the woods or leave it behind when you move because it’s too much of a burden to care for. The commitment that comes with owning an animal is as important as any other decision you should make. Abuse and abandonment is not the answer. I’m learning more and more how this is becoming a common practice by people dealing with cats that are no longer wanted. Unfortunately, under the law cats are not afforded the same amount of protection as dogs and other animals, therefore the owners, and I’ll use that term loosely, are able to get away scot-free. There are programs and ways people can get assistance if they are experiencing financial trouble all they have to do is look and ask. I understand it can be tough when you are faced with the question of who to feed, the cat or themselves. Simply contact the Hudson-Mohawk Humane Society at 434-8128 to learn more.

At this time I’m told shelters are not accepting cats. There are just too many of them and not as many people adopting. Stray, abandoned, and feral cats are becoming an issue in our neighborhoods. Community members are finding themselves participating with programs like SCRUFF (Spaying the Capital Region's Unowned Feral Felines). The Washington Park Neighborhood Association in Troy has been conducting a Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) program called POUNCE for a number of years. TNR programs like POUNCE work with groups like SCRUFF to trap cats, have them spayed or neutered, and released back to their habitat with the goal of stabilizing the feral population. The life expectancy of a stray/feral cat is just 2 years and if they aren’t reproducing the hope is the number of cats wondering the streets and alleyways will reduce. All this comes at a cost. POUNCE is funded through donations from community members. This coming spring, our neighborhood group, the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch, hope to have a similar program up and running.

Anyway you look at the issues it’s highly disappointing and the only one that suffers ultimately is the animal who is given no choice. We need to do our part in educating and being as proactive as we can by reported abuse and finding families and homes willing to adopt.

3rd Annual Holiday Toy Drive

2010-11-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

For the third straight year the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch is spearheading a holiday toy drive that will benefit the children patients of Whitney Young Health Services Troy practice. Over the last two years the group has collect and distributed over $1,700 in toys to over 150 children.

The neighborhood group partners with Whitney Young because not only does it ensure the toys collected stay within the Lansingburgh and Troy community, but they are also ensured that the toys are gifted to the communities most desiring children. Whitney Young's Troy facility provides low to no cost medical and dental services to adults and children who find themselves in a tough spot.

What we have found from the first year we held the toy drive is that we live in a very caring community. People are well aware of the stresses some families fell this time of year. It's a magical time of year and every child should have the opportunity to enjoy and have fond memories of it.

To maximize the success of this endeavor, the group would like to extend an open invitation to anyone interested in participating in this worthy cause. The group is collecting new, unwrapped toys for children up to the age of 12. The Toy Drive will run through Tuesday, December 14th when the group will collect the donated toys during their monthly neighborhood watch meeting. The meeting is held from 7:00 to 8:30pm at the Lansingburgh Boys and Girls Club where community members will also celebrate the holiday season.

The collected gifts will then be wrapped and distributed to the children and their families by Santa Claus at Whitney Young's Troy facility the following week. Councilmen Mark McGrath and along with the Troy Republican Committee will be providing food and beverages for the children and their families as part of the celebration.

If you would like to contribute, but are unable to attend the December meeting, you are encouraged to contact jgordon003@nycap.rr.com. Thank you in advance for your support and generosity.

For more information please contact Jim Gordon, 365-2270 or email jgordon003@nycap.rr.com.

All the ads, signs, and mailers go away after tommorrow... It's Election Day!

2010-11-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me know that I like to dabble in politics from time-to-time. I have been following our local races pretty closely and would like to offer my opinion ahead of Election Day on a few of them.

First, we’ll start with our only City of Troy election this year, City Court Judge (civil court). Judge Matt Turner has seen over 100,000 cases before him while serving as our current city judge. Matt has a record of presiding with fairness, integrity, impartiality, unbiased attitude, courtesy, and promptness. In other words Matt upholds the law and does so in humane and civil manner. The city of Troy needs someone like Matt to represent us. The cases that Matt see’s everyday are based on issues that strain our quality-of-life. After 12 years as judge Matt has done what is fair and just in protecting the city and its residents. Don't just take it from me… if the recent results from this year’s Primary Election are an indicator, hundreds of residents share my point of view. Matt defeated his opponent nearly 3 to 1 in the primary for the Conservative, Independence, and Working Families party lines.

Next we’ll find our way to the cesspool that has been Albany and our state government.

In a time when everything that comes out of Albany has been the adverse to common sense leadership several individuals have done their best to speak for us, the residents of Upstate NY. Roy McDonald has set out to protect our interests and strive to move forward an Upstate Agenda. While ciaos ruled, Roy was hard working. Roy knows the formula. His experience is one of proven results in lowering and eliminating taxes, positive economic development that has created hundreds of jobs and strengthened countless Upstate communities. If you have ever ventured north toward Saratoga you will see the results of Roy’s vision, hard work, and bi-partisan leadership. For almost 2 years now we have been denied similar continued growth in our region because Albany finds itself ruled by a Downstate agenda. Roy’s campaign has been one based on facts, experience, and solutions. Roy’s opponent’s has been filled with deception and outright lies. We do not need business as usual in Albany, we need real leaders with proven results.

One aspect, regardless of political persuasion, that has to upset the constituents of some of the state senate and assembly districts are the way by which they are laid out. Usually, you’ll find a large portion of a district to include the majority of the incumbent’s votes (party persuasion) and a small portion of a district to include a very minor percentage of votes. This is the case for the 108^th Assembly seat. A small portion of Troy’s council district’s 1, 2, and 3 fall within the 108^th. With this being the case what we have experienced is a serious lack in representation by the sitting assemblyman. I would go as far to ask, “Does Tim Gordon know where Lansingburgh is?” The majority of his time, effort, and pork stay’s in Albany County where his votes are. But this is a minor complaint when you analyze Tim’s record. Tim has been a “yes” vote on tax increase after tax increase as he continues to support Shelly Silver and his downstate agenda. In my opinion Mr. Gordon has been lying to and fleecing the public for far too long. Tim is not an independent, he takes his orders from the assembly dem’s and his current and past campaigns have been financed by them, isn’t this a conflict? This charade has gone on for too long. We need enthusiasm, we need a common sense plan, we need someone with an understanding of what the residents and small businesses of Upstate really need… We need a resident of Rensselaer County in Albany to fairly and accurately represent us… we need Steve McLaughlin in the state assembly!

To recap:

Troy City Court Judge: Matthew Turner

NYS Senate 43^rd District: Roy McDonald

NYS Assembly 108^th District: Steve McLaughlin

Other races…

US Congress 21^st District: Ted Danz

NYS Assembly 106^th District: Ron Canesteri

Finally, there is one thing we can all agree on, taxes are too high and our government is broken. Let your voice be heard… VOTE TOMORROW! Even if the individual you cast a vote for loses every vote against their opponent demonstrates to the victorious candidate that there are people paying attention and who do not agree. Don’t just take my or anyone else's word for it research the candidates, their past, present, and plans for the the future. Visit http://troyrecord.com/news/election/ for the Records election coverage.

Stars-for-our-Troops

2010-10-08T09:23:00.001-07:00

Hello, I'm back. it's been awhile since my last post. I have been busy with several community projects with a much needed vacation to San Francisco sandwiched in between. I am currently in the process of writing a post regarding neighborhood rebirth, so look for that in the coming days.

I have recently learned about the Stars-for-our-Troops program conducted by the Ladies Auxiliary of Germania Hall of North Troy.

The ladies are collecting used American Flags to continue a program that was started by four women from Florida called the Star Project. From the collected U.S. flags that have worn out their colors and fabric, the group are cutting from them the fields of blue, then scissoring off the embroidered stars.

The stars are then inserted into a plastic bag go a star and an explanation:

"I am part of our American flag that has flown over a home in the U.S.A. I can no longer fly. The sun and winds have caused me to become tattered and torn. Please carry me as a reminder that you are not forgotten."

according to the group the flags should be approximately 5 feet by 3 feet, so that the stars are about the size of half-dollars when they are cut out.

Not only is the group requesting help in obtaining these flags, and also people (with scissors) that would be willing to share a couple of hours on the third Sunday of every month to make these packets for our troops - overseas and at home, as well as local veterans.

Flags can be brought to Germania Hall on Friday nights from 5 to 9 PM, or on the third Sunday of the month from 2 to 4 PM. The remnants of the flags will be properly processed during a flag burning ceremony.

The group would like help locating soldiers that are going to Iraq and Afghanistan so they can give some stars to them to share with others. If you have a local contact for organizations that are sending packages overseas please forward it to the Ladies Auxiliary so they can add them to the packages.

For more additional information, please contact Susan E Wells, President, Ladies Auxiliary, at 235-1558 or email TroyGermania@aol.com or visit www.troygermaniahall.com

Two Upcoming Community Benefits

2010-09-15T05:43:00.000-07:00

This Saturday the first annual Community Harvest will be held at Ross parking lots at the end of 102nd Street. The event is somewhat of a neighborhood street festival with the purpose of bringing our local community together.Several businesses partnered with members of the community to put together an afternoon of FREE entertainment and food.

Then on Saturday September 25 a benefit will be held for the O'Brien and Bush families of Lansingburgh who recently were displaced from there home due to a devastating fire.

I would encourage everyone to consider attending one or both of these events. It's events like these that build community spirit and strengthen the relationship we share with those we call neighbors.

Patriot Day

2010-09-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks the ninth anniversary of one of the most horrific tragedies in the history of our great country. Be sure to take time tomorrow to reflect and remember those who lost their lives on that September morning and each day since protecting the freedom and liberty we enjoy everyday because of their sacrifice and be sure to also celebrate what it means to be an American...

Bustling City Life in Downtown

2010-08-26T07:07:00.000-07:00

I rarely ever have the opportunity to spend time in the city during weekday working hours. I currently work outside the city, I leave home around 6:30am and return around 4:30pm. I miss out on the flurry of day-to-day city life. Last Friday, I took off from work for a little R&R with my wife, Melissa. Before we headed out for the day I had an appointment downtown in the AM. The amount of traffic and activity I found myself immersed in was incredible. People coming and going from the restaurants, office buildings, the post office.... Now, I've lived in Troy my entire life and have been apart of the downtown hustle and bustle before, but it had been awhile. For the most part my exposure to downtown Troy is nights, weekends, and special City sponsored events. The atmosphere is completely different between working hours and non-working hours. That morning there was an energy that can't be felt during off hours. Troy was alive. Store fronts were lite and the doors were open, people coming and going. Then I thought, "where do these people go between the hours of 4:30pm and 7am?" Are they all day zombies and at night they fade into the building walls? All joking aside, what will it take to have the streets busy with activity off-hours and on the weekends?

The City and Mayor Tutunjian deserve a great deal of credit for doing a great job of promoting the city and having the many municipal festivals we hold year round. Now, due to previous successes, we are experiencing major infrastructure improvements which include outside investment and private development. With the addition of Dinosaur BBQ and the revival of the Congress/Ferry Street corridor, new and unique attractions will soon be opening that include a much in demand movie theater and retail. Additionally, all the "little" projects such as the new street signals and improvements to the sidewalk corners improve the look, feel, and safety of downtown and bigger projects such as the redevelopment of Riverfront Park and the old city hall site will all add a certain something that has been missing over the recent years. Put all these projects together, with those downtown development projects that have been previously completed, and you have something special that will draw people to Troy and give them something to do, and will draw future developers and businesses because they will see that Troy is a city on the move and is a great place to live, work, and play.

Downtown has many positive things happening in and around it. It is our economic center and home to city, county, and some state governmental offices, but it also now has the Downtown Troy Business Improvement District to serve as its stewards moving into the future. A more consistent, busy city life will return, how much of it, I don't know, but for all of Troy to be successful we need a successful downtown. We are an urban city and our downtown is where the majority of our commerce will happen (tax dollars generated). Now that downtown has been stabilized and is growing positively now the attention needs to be heavily focused on our residential neighborhoods, especially areas in Lansingburgh, South Troy, and sections of Albia, and Sycaway. This will be the focus of my next blog... Neighborhood Rebirth.

The Count Down Has Begun!

2010-08-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

We are less than one month away from the 35th Annual Uncle Sam Parade and Celebration... However the festivities are set to get underway next Saturday August 21st with the Miss Uncle Sam Pageant.

This is the last call for entrants for the Miss Uncle Sam Pageant. Alta Reynolds, director of the Uncle Sam Pageant, is now accepting applications from young ladies from Rensselaer County. The pageant will be held on Saturday, August 21, 10:00am, and conducted in St. Augustine's Hall located on the corner of 114th Street and 4th Avenue in Lansingburgh.

For brochures and more information please write to: Uncle Sam Pageant, Alta Reynolds, 8 Bank Street, Troy, NY 12180 or call Alta at 274-7294. Don't miss out on being named to the Miss Uncle Sam Court during this milestone 35th Anniversary Year!

This year's parade will feature a number of new bands and participants and there is a rumor that the US Air Force may make a quick but special appearance to mark this very special year. A fun time is guaranteed for all.

The following is a list of events leading up to and including the 35th Parade:

1. Uncle Sam Jam and Power in the Park Car Show
at Powers Park on Saturday August 28 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm

2. Annual Uncle Sam Grave Side Ceremony conducted by the Veterans of Lansingburgh.
at Oakwood Cemetery Saturday September 11th beginning at 10am

3. Annual Citizen of the Year Brunch conducted by the Uncle Sam Parade Committee
at the Veterans of Lansingburgh Saturday September 11th following the Grave Side Ceremony. For tickets call me, Jim Gordon, at 365-2270.

This year we honor John Murphy the owner of Snowman ice cream of Lansingburgh as our Citizen of the Year. We will honor our Grand Marshal Mayor Harry J Tutunjian and our Humanitarian of the Year David Hamilton.

4. 35th Annual Uncle Sam Parade
5th Avenue from 125th to 106th Streets in Lansingburgh. Parade marches rain or shine.

5. Uncle Sam Celebration
at Kinickerbacker Park, live music featuring THE HOLLIES, BADFINGER, & BILLY J KRAMER and THE DAKOTAS with Blue Hand Luke in one of their final shows together and Donny "Elvis", an international food court, rides and games for the kids, and FIREWORKS! Beings at the conclusion of the parade.

Finally on a Side Note: The Parade Committee is currently conducting a ticket raffle. For a $100 chance you have the opportunity of winning a grand prize of $10,000 or one of our eight other prizes that range from $1,000 to $250.... Only 250 tickets will be sold.... if your interested or would like more information please email me at jgordon003@nycap.rr.com... All proceeds will benefit the 2010 Parade and Celebration.

National Night Out

2010-08-02T04:37:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow residents across the city will be out celebrating National Night Out (NNO). NNO is an annual celebration sponsored and created by the National Association of Town Watch and designed for community members to get out into their community and show a since of unity and create a heightened awareness for crime and drug prevention ; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch is one of the many neighborhood goups that will be celebrating the event in their community. Specifically, the NLNW will be gathering at the 112th Street Gateway Park that they were instrumental in the development of. The group work with Mayor Tutunjian to design and then build the riverfront park. While the park is currently waiting for phase two of construction the group plans to meet and do some minor park maintenance and landscaping while enjoying a bar-b-que cookout.

Additionally, the group is pleased to once again welcome Pastor Willie Bacote and the Missing Link Street Ministry. Last year the group "marched against violence" from the Harry Dahl Firehouse at 115th Street and Fifth Avenue and ended in Powers Park with a cookout.

The group is asking for plant donations to be added to the plant beds. We are also asking that you bring a friend with you. Lets use this informal setting as an opportunity to "recruit" new members for our group. Strength is in the numbers when it comes to neighborhood watch's. The more people we have scanning the street and reporting activity the greatly increase our opportunity for success.

If your free and would like to stop by our or any other groups NNO celebration, please do. For an outline of the evening events citywide, click here.

The British are coming!

2010-07-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned several times on this blog we have hired a world renown music act to help celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Uncle Sam Parade and Celebration... To further example the international harmony shared between the United States and the English we will be joined by Billy J Kramer and the Dakota's, the Hollies' Terry Sylvester (inducted into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame in 2010), and Badfinger's Joey Mulland as they present their Liverpool Invasion show. These three legendary stars will perform a show full of hits that include "Long Cool Woman," "Bus Stop," "Come and Get It," "No Matter What," "Bad to Me," and "From A Window" to name a few. This will prove to be a must see show and it's FREE!!! Prior to to this performance Donny "Elvis" will return once again this year along with Blue Hand Luke... Three acts... a day full of family fun and entertainment... Sunday September 12 following the 35th Annual Uncle Sam Parade and Celebration...

The Uncle Sam celebration is a two day event... On Saturday September 11th beginning at 10am The Veterans of Lansingburgh will conduct the Annual Uncle Sam Grave Side Ceremony in Oakwood Cemetery. This is a celebration of patriotism honoring those who serve and have served and the legacy of "Uncle" Samuel Wilson... Following the grave site ceremony the Parade Committee will host the Annual Citizen of the Year Brunch at the Veterans of Lansingburgh. Stay tuned for more information on the brunch and the 2010 honorees.

Side Note: The Parade Committee is currently conducting a ticket raffle. For a $100 chance you have the opportunity of winning a grand prize of $10,000 or one of our eight other prizes that range from $1,000 to $250.... Only 250 tickets will be sold.... if your interested or would like more information please email me at jgordon003@nycap.rr.com... All proceeds will benefit the 2010 Parade and Celebration.

Finally, last call for entrants for the Miss Uncle Sam Pageant. Alta Reynolds, director of the Uncle Sam Pageant, is now accepting applications from young ladies from Rensselaer County. The pageant will be held on Saturday, August 21, 10:00am, and conducted in St. Augustine's Hall located on the corner of 114th Street and 4th Avenue in Lansingburgh.

For brochures and more information please write to: Uncle Sam Pageant, Alta Reynolds, 8 Bank Street, Troy, NY 12180 or call Alta at 274-7294. Don't miss out on being named to the Miss Uncle Sam Court during this milestone 35th Anniversary Year!

Litter Bugs or should I say Slobs

2010-07-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

I will never understand the human race. What is it within us that makes people live and act like animals? I am speaking specifically about littering. Everyone sees it on a daily bases, people just throwing their waste on the streets. Usually it’s something small in nature, but that still doesn’t make it acceptable.

The other night I was driving up 5th Ave. near the police department substation and noticed that there was an abundance of garbage strewn about the streets. Everything from cups, wrappers, chip bags, bottles… you name it. I thought to myself, “the nerve of these people doing this right under the nose of the police department.” Some people just don’t care about the conditions that they live in let alone the conditions they make others live in.

The following night I attended the monthly city council meeting. During the public comment period several people got up and spoke about individual’s civil liberties and how they are being violated in the city of Troy. Let me preface my thoughts by saying I am not dismissing the notion that certain individual’s liberties may have been violated or not. That got me to thinking, what about my neighbors and my civil liberties? We are the ones who are trying to uphold some level of decency in our community while there is an overabundance of people who wish to crap on it. Excuse my language but this upsets me. Drive through South Troy or North Central and tell me if the majority of the people that live there care about OUR civil liberties. While there are a few people in those neighborhoods that do care and do their best to improve them by organizing weekly cleanups and even spend their own money to buy and plant flowers just for those who could care less continue to litter and kill and steal the flowers. To continue to see these things happen and hear the stories drives me insane.

This brings me to today while I was traveling up River Street and just as I was passing Flanagan Square I saw a woman throw two empty soda bottles, an assortment of wrappers, and cigarette butts out her parked car window onto the street. I pulled up alongside her and asked, “What the hell are you thinking?” She ignored me. So, I asked again, “why would you choose to do something like that?” She answered by saying, “What the “f” are you talking about?”

At this point I noticed that she was an adult woman, not a teen, just and immature adult. “Why would you throw your garbage all over the street like that,” I asked. She replied by telling me to get the “f” out of her way because she had to go into her house. I then asked, “You live here? Why couldn’t you have brought all that into the house and thrown it away?” At that point she called me a few choice words. I then gave her two options. I said, “Mam, I don’t appreciate people who treat my city as a dump. There are people who work hard to make the place we all live the best that it can be. I am asking you to put your ignorance aside and pick up what I just watched you throw out your window that happens to be in front of the house where you live and if you choose not to you’ll have to explain to the police why you choose to make all of us suffer because you choose to live like a slob.” She thought for a moment, climbed out of her car and picked up her mess and then some. I thanked her for making the right decision and continued on my merry way.

This is OUR Troy, we own it trough our hard work, sweat, and taxes. We need to stand up and fight for what’s ours and protect it, if not us who will? No one. And if that happens we’ll just waste away.

From the Pools to the Powers Park Concerts!

2010-07-09T05:24:00.000-07:00

Powers Park Concert Series

Hey guess what… the Powers Park Concert Series starts tomorrow night! That’s right… one of the most highly anticipated summer events in Lansingburgh, or should I say all of Troy returns with seven weeks of free entertainment in one of Troy’s oldest and historic parks. Vito Ciccarelli has put together another great season of entertainment that includes everything from rock to country to dance party music. This is a true family friendly event and if you haven’t been before there is no better time to start than now… Hope to see you there, shows start at 6pm and you are encouraged to bring you own lawn chair if not you’ll be sitting on the ground. For more information visit http://troyny.gov/visittroy/powersparkconcertseries.html

The 2010 Powers Park Concert Schedule
July 10 - Cryin Out Loud
July 17 - Al Bruno, Neil Diamond Tribute
July 24 -Blue Hand Luke, Classic Rock Party
July 31 - Renee’ Lussier & Branchwater, Country Night
Aug 07 - Four School, Teacher Rock
Aug 14 - Solid Smoke, Funk N Soul Night
Aug 21 - The Greyhounds, Retro Dance Party

IT'S POOL TIME

There has been a lot of hubbub lately on the news and in the papers about the delayed opening of the city pools… The South Troy and Lansingburgh pools have since been opened… But I don’t want to dwell on the he said she said; finger pointing and bickering that has surrounded this story. Instead I’d like to highlight some of the good city residents can gain from utilizing our public pools.

Most of the attention recently has been how the pools benefit the kids. Well other than the obvious, swimming (for free), they can also receive free swimming lessons, receive a free lunch on weekdays, and participate in swim clinics hosted by the Uncle Sam Swim team. But the fun can be had by adults too… The free evening swim programs offer a variety of ways to relax and enjoy the water. There are daily adult swims (no kids splashing about) and family events (probably a little less rowdy than open swim times). The pools are open every day of the week from 1pm to 5:30 pm... the evening swim programs are held weekdays only, from 6pm to 8pm.

Click here to download the City’s 2010 Summer Swim Program for more information. This is a great was to stay cool, have fun, and to enjoy the summer all for no or very little cost. So make sure you maximize your use of these facilities and remember safety first.

Riverside Steak Roast at the Boat Club

2010-06-29T07:31:00.000-07:00

One of everyone's favorite summer past times is spending time in and around water. Obviously, Upstate NY offers a variety of options for everyone; beaches, lakes, rivers, ponds, and we're not too far from the ocean. One of my favorite things to do is relax and cookout by the water and enjoy a nice boat ride. If this is something that you enjoy as well, I would encourage you to set sail and lower anchor at the Troy Motor Boat and Canoe Club this Saturday for their Annual Steak Roast.

The "Boat Club" has been in existence since 1910 and overlooks the Hudson River in Lansingburgh. Located at 763 1st Ave the Boat Club offers commercial marine dock space, a rental hall, full bar, and weekly take-out dinners. With many special events happening throughout year, the club has long been a favorite watering hole for those in and around the Capital Region and the occasional water way traveler.

The Annual Steak Roast Party is sure to be a great time. Dinner will be served at 6pm on July 3rd and is $12 per person. There will even be fireworks at dusk. Stop by anytime! For more information or to reserve your steak please call 470-2929 and for more information on the Boat Club and their upcoming events visit www.troyboatclub.com

Putting for Dough - Local Charity Golf Outings

2010-06-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

I love to golf. If possible I would play everyday of the week. I routinely travel near and far to experience all the great courses in and around our region and state. When we go away for vacation my clubs come with me. Golf has become a passion and an enjoyable past time for many individuals. But what makes it even more enjoyable is when you’re playing in one of the many benefit outings held each summer season. Benefit golf tournaments have proven to be a great way to raise money for any cause or an organization. Below are a few outings conducted by Troy organizations that are coming up and being a few are even being played at our own Frear Park. Sorry if I have overlooked your event, if I did please email me, jgordon003@nycap.rr.com, the events information and I will gladly add it to the list!

On June 25th, the “Mayors Cup Charity Classic” will be held. This year the proceeds raised through the tournament will benefit Troy’s “Hook a Kid on Golf” initiative. This initiative is an introductory program for kids ages 8-15. Kids will be introduced to the rules and etiquette of the game, as well as take part in instructional classes on driving, iron play, chipping, and putting. This is a six week program that begins July 12th at Frear Park. In addition to the funds raised through the Mayors Cup, the program also accepts sponsors to help offset the $135 cost per child fee. Visit www.Troyny.gov for more information on this tournament and the “Hook a Kid on Golf” program.
On July 11th, the 4th Annual “Big Mac” golf tournament will be conducted by the Lansingburgh Boys and Girls Club at the Fairways of Halfmoon. For 73 years the LB&GC has provided children with educational, social, and recreational activities to help prevent delinquency in the community. Services and activities offered include peer tutoring, academic support, a technology center equipped with 10 computers, a “Kids Café” open three afternoons a week, and after school snack provided twice a week. Each year operational costs continue to rise and money becomes increasingly tougher to raise. The golf tournament has become one the LB&GC’s top fundraisers and offers all those who attend a very enjoyable time. Call 235-4143 for more information on the 4th Annual “Big Mac” golf tournament.
On July 11th, the Netter’s Fund Memorial Golf Outing will be held at Frear Park. The Netter’s Fund is a not-for-profit fund that aids in the education and prevention of drunk driving. Through-out the year the Netter’s Fund and their 23 local sponsors offer the Safe Ride Program. The safe ride program offers free rides to anyone who may have had a very enjoyable evening and has no business getting behind the wheel. As a not-for-profit organization the Netter’s Fund relies on donations from the community in addition to their Safe Ride sponsors to continue offering their programs. Visit www.netters.us for more information on the Memorial Golf Outing.
On September 18th, the 14th Annual Veterans of Lansingburgh Golf Tournament will be held at Frear Park. Call 233-8656 for more information.

These are just a few of the hundreds of tournaments available this season. Generally these events are a half-day affair. Registration includes greens fees with a cart, sometimes lunch, a dinner, and an award ceremony to end the day. I find them to be well worth the money and a very enjoyable time. I would encourage you to participate in an event. You’ll have a great time supporting our local youth and community betterment programs. See out on the links!

2nd Annual Children’s Safety Fair Scheduled for Saturday in Lansingburgh

2010-06-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

The North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch will be holding their second annual “Neighborhood Children’s Safety Day” this coming Saturday, June 19th at Powers Park in Lansingburgh with the support of the Missing Link Street Ministry/ Feed-A-Kid Program and Pastor Willie Bacote during their bi-weekly flea market.

Several activates are scheduled to educate children and their parents on how to live and play safely. Members of the neighborhood group will be joined by the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department, Troy Police and Fire Departments, Whitney Young Health Services, and the Troy Family YMCA.

Last year we had over 60 children participate in the program. The timing of this event is intended to coincide with the beginning of school districts summer vacation. Our goal is to provide the children of the community one last refresher course on how to live and play safely. During the course of the summer they will be out playing, riding bikes, or in some cases, home alone and we need to do our job to ensure the kids know how to prevent an emergency from happening and understand the right steps to take in the event one does.

Each participating agency will present specific information to educate and bring awareness on how to prevent and deal with the everyday occurrences that children may encounter.

The Sheriff’s Department will be conducting the state-wide initiative - Operation SAFE CHILD, which was created to raise awareness about child safety. The program will provide photo ID cards, which contain fingerprint and biographical data, to individuals under the age of 18. The goal of this program is to record and store the fingerprints, basic biographical information and photographs of children, who are not missing, information critical to expediting the return of a missing child.
The Troy Fire Department will be educating attendees on the best fire prevention practices, how to react in the event of a fire, and how to prevent common playground injuries. Children will also enjoy the opportunity of “touring” a Troy Fire Engine.
The Troy Police Department will be conducting a bike safety program and will be distributing a limited number of bike helmets on a first come first serve basis.
Members of Whitney Young Heath Center’s Troy practice will be discussing the preventive dental and medical services they offer locally.
The Troy Family YMCA discussing the summer, youth & teen programs, camps and other activities offered throughout the year at their facility.

“Summer is here and better weather means more opportunities to get out and play. It also means kids need to be more aware of safety tips when they’re playing, like wearing a helmet when riding your bike,” said Mayor Harry Tutunjian. “Safe communities are comprised of safe kids and it’s good to see our neighborhood associations like the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch take the lead on issues like this.”

Many of the local public service agencies have outreach programs geared to educate people on specific information We have the finest public safety agencies and youth programs available locally and having them participate in this program once again will prove to be a great benefit to the children and parents of our community.

For more information please contact Jim Gordon, 365-2270 or email jgordon003@nycap.rr.com.

Who: North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch
What: 2nd Annual Neighborhood Children’s Safety Day Where: Powers Park, Third Avenue side between 110th and 111th Street, Troy NY
When: Saturday, June 19, 2010 12:00 - 1:30pm

Photos from last years Safety Day...

Curfew Crack Down

2010-06-08T05:11:00.000-07:00

Since our neighborhood group began meeting, one of the most common complaints we receive from our members is juvenile nuisance. In Lansingburgh we have see at all the time, at all hours of the evening and night, groups of kids walking up and down the boulevards and loitering on various streets. True, not every kid is causing an issue, but like anything else in life a few bad apples spoil it for the whole bunch. The last two springs and summers we have experienced a heightened level of petty crimes caused by kids. Most popular among them are vehicular vandalism and break-ins and minor property damage. Why they do these things we’ll never know, but how can we prevent it is more important question.

We have asked for a number of years now why don’t we enforce the curfew law we have on the books as a start to break this habit of kids roaming the streets at all hours of the day and night. In the past we have been given a number of reasons why this wasn’t a feasible. Last month during our regular neighborhood meeting new Chief of Police John Tedesco addressed our group as our guest speaker. Once again the question of curfew came up. Chief Tedesco, without batting an eye, said this law will be enforced. This past weekend the Troy police picked up 20 kids who were in violation of the city’s curfew law in one night. This is a great start. Many of the everyday, petty issues that the residents experience and that frustrate us the most are caused by ill guided minors. I applaud the Chief and the police department of enacting and enforcing this detail as quickly as they did. Across the board I believe we are going to see a big change in the effectiveness of the police department as summer roles on, this is not to say it wasn’t effective in the past because it was. I just think that now the next generation of improvements will be put into place and will have a great and positive impact on the quality-of-life of our neighborhoods.

However, one aspect that I feel is missing is parental accountability. That's why I am glad to learn that the curfew ordinance carries a fine and community services for repeat offenders. The first time a minor is picked up will result in a letter and the violation notice sent to the parents, but each additional offense will result in the parents facing penalties. Starting with the second violation a fine of $100 and 25 hours of community service will be "awarded." The community service will be be performed by a parent and the minor. The fines and community service continue with each violation, but for those who are repeat violators notification will also be sent to the Rensselaer County Department of Social Services or child protective services. I would imagine that for the majority of kids that would be picked up for a curfew violation will never violate again, because I could only imagine what would have happened to me if my parents were called late in the night to pick me up at the police station for doing something I shouldn’t have been doing.

Along the lines of the City’s curfew law, educate yourself and your children so they don’t get picked up for being in violation and you make that take a trip down to the police department to pick them up. The city’s curfew for those under the age of 18 begins at 10:30 pm and ends at 6 am on weekday and Sunday nights and begins at 11:30 pm on Friday and Saturday.

Tonight, Tuesday June 8 beginning at 7pm is our monthly neighborhood watch meeting at the Lansingburgh Boys and Girls Club. If you’d like to join us, our guest speakers this month are Bob Reiter and County Executive Kathy Jimino on hand to discuss benefits available for Veterans who reside in the county. Also, because there have been several questions and concerns as to who receives and dispatches emergency and non-emergency calls (270-4411 and 9-1-1) and how it works, we will have Dir. of Rensselaer County Public Safety Kelly Paslow and Deputy Dir. Mark Balistreri to discuss their service and answer questions.

2nd Annual Nancy McHugh Scholarship Fundraiser

2010-05-25T04:48:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 4, 2010 from 4:00pm until 6:00pm the 2nd Annual Nancy McHugh Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser held behind the Lansingburgh High School. The price is $13.00 per person and you will receive a 1/2 chicken dinner, baked potato, coleslaw, roll, butter, cookie and a drink. This year Giffy's Bar-B-Q will be providing the meal.

For anyone who knew Nancy you knew she had a true passion for education and students. Nancy joined as a member of the Lansingburgh school board in 1991. As a member of the Rensselaer County Legislature she served as the chairwoman of the education committee. For nearly two decades Nancy strove to positively impact the lives of the children of Lansingburgh and the school district; and she did. Following her passing, the district created a memorial scholarship to honor her legacy and to ensure Nancy’s hard work and dedication will be remembered for future generations.

The scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Lansingburgh senior.

Please RSVP by May 27th to Theresa Broderick at 233-6850 or tbroderi@lansingburgh.org. Your Bar-B-Q ticket will be waiting for you at the sign in table.

Proper Inspections Require Proper Inspectors

2010-05-24T04:52:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks I’ve read twice about a proposal that would lead to mandatory rental unit inspections in the city of Troy. These inspections, as I read, would be conducted by city firefighters. I’m not completely “sold” on the concept yet and I can’t help but question the logic behind why firefighters would be utilized to conduct these inspections.

For the past several years the Troy UFA has pleated to the city council and the Mayor to hire more fireman. Their claim is that the current staffing and coverage levels puts themselves and city residents at risk should the department receive several calls for service, substantial in nature, within a short time of each other. Honestly, I don’t know if this is a justifiable claim or not, but let’s assume for a moment that it is. The UFA has asked for 8 more firefighters, I believe. In the past I’ve heard that the cost of adding a single new fireman to the force is approximately $150,000 (includes salaries, training costs, etc.) I’ve also heard in the past that for every $100,000 of expense added to the city’s budget equates to a 1% tax increase should insufficient revenue be available to offset the increased costs. If there isn’t a sufficient level of firefighters to perform their current firefighting and EMT duties, how can the city burden them with additional duties that are completely unrelated to their specialized trade? The current force and any additional members that will be added in the future will need to be specially trained to perform these residential inspections. There is a lot of expense that will be attached to this plan. Let’s not forget that there is a union contract at play here too that details what the duties of firefighters are, how will this be impacted? And let’s not forget about the union that represents the individuals who probably are best suited to perform this inspection function, the CSEA that represents the members of the city’s Code Enforcement department. Could there be an inter-city dispute between labor unions over whose duty and responsibility it is to perform these residential inspections? Why wouldn’t or, most importantly, why isn’t code enforcement being considered as the inspection agent under this proposal? They have the training already and expansion of their department might be less costly than that of the fire department. There will be an administrative function and expense attached as well, who manages the database, code enforcement? If code enforcement were to manage it, why couldn’t they perform the inspections?

Now let’s quickly assume that that the rental unit inspection program proceeds as described at this point in time, in its infancy, and the existing workforce of firefighters now adds inspections to their daily duties. Doesn’t this now create a greater public safety risk should there be calls for service and firefighters are out inspecting residential units? I would believe so. So, this leads one to believe that additional firefighters would be a necessity, probably over and above the 8 already requested.

Public safety should always be paramount and that is why I believe the firefighters should remain focused on their specialized trade and not be lead down the wrong path by promises made by part-time politicians touting additional duties equal additional pay and equal additional staffing. I am not questioning the ability, dedication, or effectiveness of our City’s Bravest, our firefighters. I have absolute respect for what they do each day to help keep all of us safe. They have a very specific purpose just as our Code Enforcement officers do. The training and expertise of the code officers lend themselves to more effective and a more cost efficient residential inspections. Additionally, if one of the primary issues of these inspections is ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in place surely this is something that a code enforcement officer does on a daily basis.

As of late, government officials at all levels, local, state, and federal, continue to concoct grand pieces of legislation to improve or reform issues, but what they end up creating are cumbersome and confusing laws that ultimately end up cost the taxpayers more to fund than the perceived payoff. Let’s be smart here, government should be streamlining operations and reducing redundancies that are costly to taxpayers. I agree Troy needs stricter code enforcement, let’s do, but let’s do it the correct way, please… for once?

Troy's Wonderful Parks

2010-05-19T07:08:00.001-07:00

One of the most valuable assets of any city is its parks. Clean and inviting parks are essential to many aspects of neighborhood development. Some of which include improving economic growth and sustainability, reduction in crime, improving residents physical and mental health, creating a strong sense of community, and supporting overall quality of life. All these and more are important to the prosperity of any community.

The city of Troy has over 20 municipal parks from Lansingburgh to South Troy. Many of these parks are little neighborhood pocket parks that offer community members a place to relax, bar-b-que, and include play ground equipment for children to enjoy. Growing up in South Troy I spent a lot of time playing baseball and enjoying the swings at the Canal Street Park. A lot of childhood memories revolve around that park and last year when it was renovated it ensured that many more memories will be had by other children. The Mayor and city’s Department of Parks and Recreation have taken a proactive approach in keeping these parks updated, safe, and clean for residents. These parks add to the neighborhoods luster and act as a major component in improving quality of life. Last year our neighborhood group, the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch, began construction on a new riverside park on 1st Ave and 112th St. This was a vacant, underutilized, city-owned property over grown with weeds. We submitted a plan to the Mayor as part of the CDBG process. The plan was accepted and now the land is underdevelopment. Phase one was completed last spring and phase two is slated to begin at any moment and once this phase is completed the park will be ready for use. This new 112th St. Gateway Park, just as the rehabilitation of the Canal Street Park, and the recent upgrades our neighborhood group assisted with at the 112th Street Park between 4th and 5th Ave.’s, becomes the catalyst community improvement. These simple infrastructure improvements not only beautify the area but they instill a sense of community pride and spirit in people.

I have always thought that Prospect Park was the crown jewel of the city. The vistas and tranquility the park offers is second to none in the Capital Region. For a while now I felt that the park was underutilized and opportunity was passing us by. That’s way I was pleased to learn that this will be addressed soon and Mayor Tutunjian will be investing in improvements to the park adding to park equipment and by making it safer and cleaner. Prospect Park is definitely a unique piece of property; if you haven’t been there take a trip it well worth the time.

Many people travel far and wide to enjoy parks throughout our region and state, but with the unfortunate closure of many state parks maybe now residents of Troy and the greater Capital Region will re-discover the wonderful parks right here in Troy, close to home, and literally right in our back yards.

To find the closest park to your neighborhoods and for a complete list of Troy's park Click Here