LARRY WOERNER DINNER 2010: PROVENZANO

Friday night was the time, Holiday Inn was the scene. The Annual Larry Woerner Dinner was held this past weekend where we honor someone in the Democratic Party that has made tremendous impact in both the election of fellow Democrats and in progressive Legislation.

This year we celebrated the journey of Jeanette Provenzano. This doesn't mean she's done politically, but her stature within the City and County Committee made Jeanette a worthy recipient of the Woerner Award.

A good number of people showed up and made the evening that much more special. Her family, friends & coworkers got to spend an evening together while raising funds for the committee. Not a bad combination. 

You can see the attendance was diverse as was her lifetime of experience and career. We can only guess, if not the Legislature, where we may see Jeanette serving the community in the future. But at this time, she got to bask in the adoration of her friends & family.

No doubt she'll join other committeemen again this election season campaigning for Judge Larry Ball, Comptroller Elliott Auerbach and Sheriff Paul VanBlarcum. Expect to see her at your door in weeks to come.

CUOMO FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

According to the New York Times, Andrew Cuomo is way ahead in the fundraising race for this years general election. With more than $16 million in his campaign account, he finds himself as top dog in the state financially. Other reports have Paterson holding about $4 million. We are hearing less about the other contenders, some of which I have pointed out here.

It's quite the gap. If someone were to read the numbers and have to make an assumption, you could easily expect our AG to run away with the Democratic nomination for Governor this year. That is, if the Democrats want a democratic governor.

The Post says Paterson has been spending more than he's been bringing in over the last six months, in hopes to bolster his sagging approval ratings, but I don't see it working. He's also spending a heap of cash on insider handlers like PR personnel. I think he may have wasted his money there too.

Steve Levy, as I mentioned last week, still has almost $5 million. But he's turned out to be as viable a Gubernatorial candidate for the Democrats as Harold Ford is for Senate. Can you say DINO? The Times went on to highlight the $32 million that Eliot Spitzer spent in 2006. They're all going to have raise plenty more money, and fast.

You all realize, this leaves the question as to who will run for AG, Lieutenant Governor and whether Tom Dinapoli is seeking his post as Comptroller. Those options on both sides will start to reveal themselves as the spring gets closer. Meanwhile, I'm expecting all the candidates to incorporate the fundraising methods we just saw with the Haiti relief into their own campaigns.

Example: Just text CUOMO to 55505 to donate $10 to his campaign! Wouldn't that be a revolution in fundraising efforts? They'd all be doing it and you'd have to keep a list of five digit numbers handy as you walk door to door this summer. Sounds crazy, but don't expect anything less.

The last push for funds before the January deadline was still through the old fashioned method of Email, asking supporters to donate $15 by this weekend. The key point here is Email is already "Old Fashioned." Today you better be savvy in the fields of Texting, FaceBook and Twitter if you want to run for high office. I have a feeling, Andrew will be the first to utilize this revolutionary trend in communication long before the others.

You can reach me at UlsterMadness@twitter.com

ANIMAL SHELTER "BALE OUT"

The Catskill Animal Sanctuary, located on the border of Ulster and Saugerties, is in financial need just like everyone else. However this haven for abused and neglected farm animals, houses creatures we call "the voiceless victims" of the economic crisis.

So many people in Ulster County have made farm animals part of their families, but when times are tough and the threat of losing thier home or health insurance, they can no longer afford to care for these animals.

Two years ago, my friend Bettie and I rescued a domesticated Goose down by Rosita's Restaurant on the Rondout. It was frightened and limping when we finally caught her. Patrons of the bar threw stones at the friendly foul over the weekend and luckily did little harm. CAS is where we took her; Bettie and I visit the Sanctuary twice a year to check up on her.

Sanctuary director Kathy Stevens said in the Record this week:"Our waiting list of people desperate to place animals, from rabbits to draft horses, is seven pages long,"

So the Sanctuary is having what they call a "Bale Out" [yes they went there] Animals rescued by the sanctuary require hay, grain, bedding, shelter construction, caregiver salaries, medical supplies and veterinary care.

Money raised this winter through the "Bale Out" will go into an account to be used only for expenses directly related to the care of the animals. You can donate by visiting www.casanctuary.org where you can track the progress of this campaign.

Even if you don't have a needy animal or the means to donate right now, you can stop in for the winter open house on weekends. Bring the kids and witness the good work this organisation does. No dogs.

Directions: From Kingston, take 9W north through Ulster, past QuickChek and Angela Pizza until you reach Old Stage Road on your right. Follow signs. 336-8447

KEVIN CAHILL FUNDRAISER: ROSENDALE

Wow, another excellent day. What a perfect opportunity to have brunch with Kevin Cahill.

Oh, did I mention he had his brunch fundraiser this morning?

(Blaber, Brian Cahill, Rob Parete and Ed Paladino pictured left)

Yes, I just had to trek south to the town of Rosendale to experience the brunch buffet at the Bywater Bistro on Main Street.

Kevin's fundraiser was the initiative to try it out, and I strongly recommend sampling their menu. They are open 5 - 9pm weekdays.

The event was from 11am to 1pm and was well attended while I was there. Some attendees I havent seen in quite a while. It was so nice to catch up on life with a few. Included were MaryAlice Cahill. (pictured here with Alderman Tom Hoffay)

My time amongst the guests was limited though, I served as a guest on the liberal radio program on WKNY from 12:30 to 1:30. So, I sampled the treats and split early.

Here is a back patio picture stolent from their website.

Kevin's opponent was supposed to appear on another morning radio program today, but didnt show up. So I guess today was Kevin's Day...sunshine and all.

Bywater Bistro :: 419 Main St., Rosendale NY :: Dinner, Cocktails, Wine, Micro

BARN DANCE IN SAUGERTIES

Here are some pictures of the Saugerties Barn Dance Fundraiser.

The barn, owned by Mike Harkavy, is quite spectacular. The 70 to 80 guests this Saturday night contributed quite a bundle for the Saugerties Democratic party. A nice shot in the arm for the remaining political season ahead.

It was a privilage to DJ for the event and would do it again for any worthy causes that need funds in the future.

The spots on the picture of the dance floor are actually the hay dust particles that filled the air in the barn. The flash of the camera really gave the rare view of the dust particles since all the stomping on the dancefloor sure kicked up alot of it.

Im actually more concerned for my equipment than anything else.

More fun at the Soapbox Derby tomorrow.

EMPIRE STATE AIDS RIDE

Saturday afternoon, I attended a fundraiser at Armadillo, in Kingston. It was an opportunity to raise funds for the EMPIRE STATE AIDS RIDE.

The journey will be by bicycle and Richard Serringer (pictured right) is our champion rider representing Kingston.

Richard has been preparing for this event by participating in dozens of local “rides” as well as following a strict regimen at the gym.

You can't be in my shape and expect to make 5 miles without a medic.

In attendance were my friends Redmond from Hudson and PJ from W Chestnut street, (pictured left)

The AIDS ride will start at Niagara Falls and end at Battery Park in NYC. This is a chance to raise much needed funds for AIDS organizations in our area.

The space was offered by Merle and hosted by Esther Gin, seen here with Supervisor Nick Woerner.

Almost a thousand dollars was raised this afternoon, which will help Richard reach his goal of $6,000.

The trek will start August 10th and end the 16th.
You can contribute in Richard’s name by going to:
Empirestateaidsride.com – click “donate” and search Richard Serringer. All monies raised before and during the ride will be registered under his name.

Thanks again to Armadillo for the space and the great food.
The margaritas…they need no additional praise.

EMPIRE STATE AIDS RIDE :: HOME

ANNUAL MAYOR'S BOAT RIDE

Thursday’s boat ride with the Mayor was fun. Sure it was a warm evening, but the river breeze howling through the boat made it a comfortable experience.

Everyone was in good spirits, the food was good and the crowd was ready to dance on the upper deck.

This year, a portion of the money raised will go to the Children’s Home of Kingston. As reported in the Freeman, the cruise raised about $14,000, with at least $2,500 of the total earmarked for the Home. Located on Grove St in Ponkhockie, the donation will offset the cost of capital improvement projects at their campus.

I invited Larry Delarose, the NY State Senate candidate, to this years event. Sharing the spotlight with Mike Hein, Elliot Auerbach and Jim Noble as the Mayor read the list of attending notables, we all experienced a positive applause this year.

What a difference a year makes.

With pictures of happy faces on and off the boat, you get to see what you missed this year.

Many thanks to Jim, Jim, the Rip staff and those who help make this happen year after year.

Its a rare chance to mix and mingle without policy issues as the cause.

And what better place to gather than downtown Kingston on a hot summer night?

NAACP KINGSTON CHAPTER: ANNUAL DINNER

On a stormy Saturday evening in Kingston, the first annual NAACP meeting was a success. Rev Freeman and Rev Childs Sr. presented a quality forum for a fair attended but much needed meeting at Point Of Praise church on Hurley Avenue.

The crowd of about 30 attendees included Mike Hein, Chief Keller and Carroll St Rose.

Speakers from the NYS Dept of Justice and the HV Regional Director of NY Chapters stressed the imperative need for education, parenting and system modification geared toward structured free time for today’s youth and family unity as means to diminish the disparity in Black and Hispanic incarcerations.

The recidivistic nature of the culture of crime lends itself to a downward spiral in neighborhoods both economically and quality of life.

In this region, the issue of jobs plays a big roll in the rate of crime. Youth who experience employment and worthy roll models tend to stay out of the court system. Our local and state job situation isn’t helping.

The food at tonight’s gathering was donated by Adam’s Fairacre Farms in Ulster, NY.
I was impressed. Thank you Adam’s!

With the membership well over 100, the first annual dinner will be marked as a great beginning for a needed community advocacy source. I only wish more of my elected comrades took these events more seriously.

GIARDINO CHALLENGES MOLINARO

Great news! Laurette Giardino, of East Fishkill, has entered the 2008 election race to become the Democratic candidate for New York State Assembly in the 103rd district. The district is east of us in Dutchess and Columbia County, but plays a significant roll in the economic development throughout the Hudson Valley.

Ms. Giardino, a businesswoman in Dutchess County, knows how hard it is to keep small businesses afloat. Over the years she owned and operated several stores, was Assistant Controller of a manufacturing company in Westchester, and published a monthly GLBT newspaper called In The Life.

District map to the left shows the townships from City of Hudson to E Fishkill in pink. With two district offices, this one will take some extra gas to manage the peoples business.

Laurette has been active in politics for many years. In 2007 she lost her bid for E. Fishkill Town Clerk by a handful of votes.. She currently serves as co-chair of the town’s Democratic Party and is a member of the Dutchess County Dem Women's Caucus. In her run for office last year, she was the recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy grant.

She will be challenging Marc Molinaro, a Conservative Republican in his first term. With little to show for a long list of promises, Laurette plans on tapping into the new machine that has assumed power in Albany. With Paterson as Gov, a progressive Assembly and an eminent Dem majority in the state Senate, we need a business savvy woman in the 103rd.

Giardino said in the Pok Journal: "At this time, a Democrat has more chance of affecting change than a Republican. This is a good time to be in the majority. I am proud to be a Democrat because I believe in working for the people. My allegiance will be first and foremost to the residents of the 103rd. I will listen to my constituents, and will work with party leaders to do what is best for the people who live in my district."

Laurette has long championed environmental protections, women’s rights, developing alternative energy sources, improving education, and finding ways to help rescue struggling homeowners in this mortgage crisis..

Laurette told the Poughkeepsie Journal months ago: "This seat has been held by a Republican for too many years, and the results speak for themselves. People are having a harder time making ends meet than ever before. This will be a tough race, but I am committed to working hard to win it.”

Kevin Cahill serves us well in the 101st district with plenty to show for his good work in Albany. I expect well attended fundraisers coming soon from both of these fine public servants. The 101st and 103rd deserve a qualified team serving in Albany in 2008. I will keep you posted on the dates.

Contribute to Laurette Giardino's Campaign

AIDS WALK NYC - TEAM KINGSTON

The spring season is upon us once again. We thank our lucky stars that we made it through another winter as we prepare for the fun times ahead. Not so, for many residents of the Hudson Valley.

Some of us suffer from illness that robs us of our strength, dignity and the will to carry on. One of these diseases is HIV/AIDS. The epidemic continues at an alarming rate among women and in the black community. Even with the continuing increase of newly diagnosed HIV patients, NY State cuts funding in the 2008 budget. Gov Patterson ordered a 2% cut in all health services across the board. Attempts to sever these programs from the cutting process failed.

In the past week, more than 40 HIV/AIDS service organizations, anti-poverty groups, and health and human service organizations signed onto a letter urging the Governor and the leadership of the State Legislature to protect direct client services within the AIDS Institute budget.

What can we do to help? Join me this May 18th in NYC for the AIDS WALK 2008 fundraising event. Last year, my partner and I took part in the event and contributed over $270 we had collected from City Hall employees and some friends. I remember the warm thanks from those whom felt it was their privilege to donate. Overall AIDS WALK 2007 pulled in about $7 Million

With the additional cuts in state spending for AIDS research and services, I feel the opportunity to help through donations is our only way to fill the gap in funding. So, join me as I assemble Team Kingston, and show everyone that we are an active and caring community up here in the Catskills. (or donate some money) We could carpool or meet at the Rally before the walk begins.

Check out the GMHC website for more details: AIDS Walk New York

To join Team Kingston…simply Email me for info: Madsenmike@aol.com

BIG NIGHT FOR QUEENS GALLEY

A terrific show Sunday night at the Bearsville Theatre!

The fundraiser concert for Queens Galley was a huge success. Orleans, with guests Robbie Dupree and Joe Bouchard of BOC put on a great performance. Playing hits like Hot Rod Hearts, Dance With Me, Don’t Fear the Reaper and Godzilla had the audience on their feet and screamin.

I arrived around 7pm for the silent auction and mingled with Kingston and Woodstock notables including Jon Sennett, Donna Hintz, Tim Halpern, Ugly Gus and Jeremy Blaber. The afternoon show was attended by Jim & Marybeth Sottile, Maryann DeGroodt of AGI, and Hon. Karen Peters.

Diane Reeder and hubby (pictured right) and staff did an outstanding job of warming guests with their personality and culinary treats. It was interesting being served by Phil Cosme during intermission. His is a common face at the Galley which served over 6 thousand meals last month.

People, we are in a nutrition crisis. Although Queens Galley does its part, they need support fiscally and volunteer wise. On the grander scope, the number of hungry children should alarm everyone. Those of us in local government do what we can to offset what Washington is doing to this country, but you could reach out and contact neighbors whom you suspect are struggling.

Put the gas prices and Tax/Reval issues aside and make a difference a few houses away.
If you’re reading this, you’ve got a computer and cable and electric and time to waste.
Local and National politics aside, this is our immediate crisis and we should all be a part of the solution.

The Queens Galley, Kingston, NY 12401 - Home