"It must be remembered that there is nothing more difficult to plan, more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to manage, than the creation of a new system. For the initiator has the enmity of all who would profit by the preservation of the old institutions and merely lukewarm defenders in those who would gain by the new ones." Machiavelli
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Latest NewsState Senate PrimaryBy DIA, Section News
If you haven't met David Weiss yet, go check out his website. He is running against Mr. Breslin.
Unlike Mr. Breslin, he actually has been to my neighborhood, knocked on doors, and talked to people. He'll be getting my vote on Tuesday. (9 comments) Comments >> Times Union and the 21stBy DIA, Section News
The primary is a week away. The TU chimes in on the race. Of the five democrats running two used to be Republicans. Doesn't say much for the Republican brand these days.
I don't expect to post much until after the first week in November. One way or the other, things will be very different then concerning all things political. For the best information on the race in the 21st, go to The Albany Project. Have a good two months. (3 comments) Comments >> Albany ViolenceBy DIA, Section News
Two stabbings this weekend, one fatal.
ALBANY -- City police said a festering dispute that started last week ended with the fatal stabbing of a teenager outside his home early Saturday. A 21-year-old man is charged with the slaying.This area of Washington Avenue appears to be joining some of the other areas of the city in their slow decline. Seeing as this is right next to SUNYA dorms and the Albany High School, this is a big problem, in my opinion. If I recall correctly the business they mention in the article (Weigel Beverage) closed in the past year as has the pizza joint across the street, which is currently for sale. They of course sit across the street from a boarded up building right on the corner. The other stabbing was reportedly at 651 Watervliet off of Central. (8 comments) Comments >> Holiday HumorBy DIA, Section News
Apparently they still read this blog over at the TU and they decided to follow up on my convention center bit from last week. Here is their take on the mess. Whenever I read the term "convention center authority" I think "awww, they finally acknowledged that I know more about this business model than anyone else in town"...and then I catch myself and realize they are referring to the boondogglers. Here are some of the funniest lines you will read this month(funny in a "i can't believe my tax dollars are paying for that" way).
"We're just still in a holding pattern," said Gavin Donohue, who became chairman of its board after the original leader, George Leveille, resigned.Really, Gavin? Even though it may never be built, the proposed Albany Convention Center cost taxpayers more than $72,000 last month.And then the ridiculously unfunny and "I'm really not this stupid but the money is good so I say this stuff" award. "We remain solidly behind the concept of the convention center," said Executive Director Duncan Stewart. "There is still a very strong demand and market for this type of facility in the capital city of New York stateHey. He makes $113,000 a year to say that stuff. I know a lot of people who would say crazier shit than that for 6 figures a year. The market says there is NO demand for this type of facility. (See how easy that is when you aren't on the payroll). Take a look at the facts. State them. Move on. Easy. But for $113K a year you will do crazy stuff. Exhibit B: "Despite the economic uncertainty we face as a state and a nation, the market remains strong," he said. "Coming from the private sector, we're very truly aware we need to protect costs. We are very concerned we use this time efficiently.""coming from the private sector". Duncan, you're killing me. Stop it. "very concerned". Actually that is the one bit I believe. If I was getting $113K a year to do nothing I'd be very concerned that the gravy train might end, too. Poor Duncan. It is like he won a scratch off "Win for Life" ticket and after 3 years they told him "time's up". The market remains strong. Duncan apparently took his PR lessons from Bagdhad Bob. (2 comments) Comments >> RealityBy DIA, Section News
I used to think that most people didn't realize that Jerry Jennings didn't have the ability to run the city. I'm no longer convinced of that. Even his supporters will admit that he really doesn't know what he is doing, but they like him and really what harm is he doing? Now that they are facing 30% tax increases a few years in a row, I believe that sort of "he's an idiot, but he's likable" thinking has lost its appeal. The "but William Kennedy writes books that make it seem like corruption is a good thing" mentality is coming to an end. Today's TU LTE confirms my thinking in this area.
So, c'mon Mayor Jennings! Keep the party goin'. Act now, before a distasteful situation becomes an issue that will end what some say is the best and only idea you've had in many a year.The only idea you've had. From someone who says they like Alive at Five. Oh my. Someone finally spoke the brutal truth. And the TU printed it. Albany has had enough. New mayor, renewed city. Corey Ellis in DenverBy DIA, Section News
Sounds like Corey Ellis isn't just your run of the mill Common Council member. I like it. Pretty soon his detractors will be calling him "ambitious" (which to me is a compliment but to them is somehow a negative...if you don't believe me, read the NYTimes piece on how Obama is smart, disciplined, hardworking and has always been raising his goals to try to accomplish more AND that is somehow a bad thing).
Back to Ellis "I think there is going to be a return to the grass roots campaigning we saw during the primary,” said Albany Common Councilman (Ward 3) and Obama delegate Corey Ellis. Ellis, just days away from attending the Democratic National Convention in Denver, told Metroland that he planned to use the opportunity to network with delegates and Obama campaign heads from battleground states like Pennsylvania and Ohio. Ellis has been heavily involved in running Albany for Obama. Headquartered on Lexington Avenue, Albany for Obama sent local volunteers to Ohio and Pennsylvania during the Democratic primary, and the organization wants to make sure that local Democrats will be able to spend weeks leading up to the election on the ground, knocking on doors and phone banking. Learn About Your CandidatesBy DIA, Section News
The Metroland has coverage of the candidates in the 21st.
Not that anyone should care, but I'm still undecided on who to vote for, although I'm certain who to vote against. The way I see this election is that whoever wins is unlikely to have a direct impact on my life or my neighborhood by what they do in DC. The only way I see it impacting our lives here in Albany is the political clout that goes with the victor. If Brooks wins, Jennings gets a boost which he is in desperate need of because every political friend he had (Sweeney, Pataki, Bruno, Clinton) is either gone or just lost power. If Steck wins, there are a bunch of local politicians who are supporting him who get a boost, most of whom are the type who can't stand Jennings. So, I'm ok with a Steck victory. Just the fact that Jennings got up and left the meeting instead of voting on the endorsement makes Steck ok in my book. We shouldn't forget that little episode of "I only like democracy when I know I can win". Tonko winning will do the same. So, Steck or Tonko winning should be a good thing for the city of Albany, which is what I care about. Should be interesting. New Steck flyer today going after Brooks for taking lobbyist money and working for a lobbyist. I'm sure Tonko doesn't mind that one. Political Quiz: Quick, without Googling, name the Republicans in the race. I can't. (4 comments) Comments >> Paterson at the ConventionBy DIA, Section News
Good one, governor
If [McCain is] the answer, then the question must be ridiculous.
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