Time To Move On....by Ann Taylor

Thank you to everyone who has enjoyed and supported the East Greenbush Blog!  This blog was started as a tool to inform viewers of issues pertaining to East Greenbush residents and our tax dollars.  Since then other blogs have come to life and now...residents know more about their Town and their officials than they ever did before.

Time is a very precious commodity.  My time has become very limited due to work and some new activities I would like to enjoy.  I cannot devote the time to the blog that I would like to, therefore I am retiring from the blog.  I will no longer author posts.....at least for quite awhile.  This blog has been a source of enjoyment for me for the past 3 years and now it is time to move on.  Please continue to enjoy the East Greenbush Gadfly.  The "Gadflies" do an incredible job.  They devote much of their time to research EG issues and we all benefit from their work.

Thank you for reading...I have appreciated your comments and interest!

Supervisor's Report Through 6/12/12...copied and pasted

http://www.eastgreenbush.org/

From the desk of:

       Keith A. Langley, Supervisor

                               Town of East Greenbush

Over the next two months, the second of the Town’s Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation projects will be under way. This project will consist of a process known as sliplining. Sliplining is a means of rehabilitating pipeline without excavation. Essentially, the inner-diameter of a pipe is lined with polyethylene, preventing groundwater from seeping in to the sanitary sewer system. Much of the Town’s sanitary sewer infrastructure is coming of age and this is a cost-effective method of reducing inflow to the sanitary system and in turn increasing capacity at our wastewater treatment facility. This project is anticipated to begin in Sherwood Park the week of June 11th.

I’m sure that most of you have noticed that the Couse Roundabout is open and traffic is flowing smoothly through the intersection.  I believe the roundabout is a great addition to our infrastructure and will help to relieve congestion and accommodate increased traffic on the Route 4 corridor.

I am pleased to announce that Sean Mulvey has joined the Town Hall staff, assuming the responsibilities of Director of Finance.  His immediate focus will be the 2013 Town budget.

Our Town suffered a loss of a young person who will be missed by her family and this community, young and old.  There are no words to adequately express the profound sympathy we have for the family and for those who have suffered such a great loss. 

Wisconsin Recall...Walker Remains

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/06/05/polls-close-in-wisconsin-voter-turnout-reported-heavy/

OBama....The Unexplained Reality

This is a clip from the Conservative Political Action Conference 2012.  As I have said many times, I am not Republican, I am Conservative.  A friend sent this clip to me; I share it with you.  If you are a sheep of Obama's, and follow him blindly, you may not like this clip or the questions it asks or the observations it notes.  But I am a Conservative so you should not be surprised that I am posting this clip.
Ann
http://www.youtube.com/v/Z6QOscKvUjU?version=3&feature=player_detailpage

"Hope and Change"--what it REALLY means

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=zi15OtKquD0

This video says it all.

While many of us are working 2, and possibly 3 jobs, is this REALLY the "Hope and Change" Obama was preaching about?  Did those who believed in "Hope and Change" think so many people would be forced to work 2 or 3 jobs just make the bare minimum monthly expenses?  Did those who believed in "Hope and Change" think so many would fall prey to the need for food stamps?  Did those who believed in "Hope and Change" think the deficit would raise to the highest levels in history?  Did those who believed in "Hope and Change" think the unemployment rate would reach record highs?

Have to be honest...if this is "Hope and Change"......it's better to be HopeLESS and Stagnant.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

Enjoy this long weekend and please remember those who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.

If you know a veteran or someone actively serving PLEASE take the time to thank them and shake their hand for their service.  We owe these brave men and women every courtesy and show of gratitude we can.  They appreciate a simple handshake accompanied with a sincere thank you.......and it is the least we can do.

Now....a SALUTE TO THE MEN AND WOMEN THAT HAVE PROUDLY SERVED AND THOSE IN ACTIVE SERVICE......enjoy this selection of music from our branches of the military.

MARINES   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-IQ8zZhw3U

NAVY       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOxrjX5Oi38

ARMY       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtdJE1o-GDg&feature=related

ARMY VS NAVY Drumline Battle  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFRikZ2Mwao&feature=related

AIR FORCE   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOc5dSNnPL4

COAST GUARD  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIbXGMJJKuA

UPDATE East Greenbush Dirty Pollutants Make the News!

As reported on News Channel 13:


http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S2620920.shtml?cat=300

NY Commission Recommends Removal of EG Judge

http://www.scjc.state.ny.us/Determinations/S/Schilling.Diane.L.2012.05.08.DET.pdf

http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story/NY-commission-recommends-removal-of-justice/NX14vHH40ECHhwWPUCZQZg.cspx

http://www.troyrecord.com/articles/2012/05/11/news/doc4fac43671ee13824250172.txt?viewmode=default

http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Commission-Judge-fixed-speeding-ticket-3549230.php#ixzz1uUqZcewx


Links copied and pasted by Ann Taylor

Law Requiring Dog Owners to be Insured...by Ann Taylor

http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Dog-owner-coverage-mulled-3541108.php

This link is from today's edition (May 8th) of the Times Union.  Schenectady City Council members are contemplating passing a law to require dog owners to be insured.  The reason--if the dog harms someone the owner can reimburse the victim for costs incurred due to medical bills.  Per the article, the City Attorney proposed the measure.

There are many questions and concerns to sift through and discuss but, the reason for the law, in my opinion, is a good one.  It seems to be a step in the right direction that other municipalities may want to consider.  When someone's pet attacks, the owner should be held financially responsible.  The following link provides a little information regarding dog bite statistics,  http://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics.php.

There is a "not my fault" syndrome that is ridding people of accountability.  It's important to understand that when you own a dog, YOU are responsible for his behavior.  It is the owner's job to properly train your pet and keep your pet under YOUR control at all times.  For those that do not, they are responsible when their pet hurts someone.  It's good to see Schenectady dealing with this issue; they are lucky to have a proactive attorney.

Best Bicycle Guard Ever.....by Ann Taylor

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/golden-retriever-guards-owner-bicycle-then-hops-aboard-160100238.html

You cannot watch this video with giggling.  This is the cutest guard dog I have ever seen.  ENJOY!

East Greenbush Issues.....by Ann Taylor

A comment was submitted stating, "This blog has really lost its edge on East Greenbush issues."  I would like to take this opportunity to address that statement.

This blog has changed its course quite a bit.  We no longer write about the political tribulations of East Greenbush.  Our blog has expanded to include a new author, a young gentleman that enjoys writing about sports.  When he has time, he provides a post that is non-confrontational and, to sports fans, is a "breath of fresh air".  Michael and I write about social issues, entertainment, news stories, and, once in awhile, national politics.

The reason we changed our direction is simple.  There are plenty of people writing blogs about East Greenbush issues and we pride ourselves on being the very first to do so.  Some agreed with us, some disagreed.  After many months, some decided to create their own blog and we encouraged that.  It is their turn to author blogs regarding East Greenbush tax dollars and budget spending.

As much as we enjoyed penning posts about East Greenbush and informing residents of what our tax dollars were funding we have ventured down a different path.  Between new projects and the addition of a young man whose slate is clean of any political nonsense, we chose to leave the East Greenbush political blogging and budget blogging to the others.

I apologize if you find our blog "has lost its edge" but some have found the new topics offer a mental reprieve from the political banter.  In time, you may enjoy our content but for those who don't---there are other blogs devoted to East Greenbush politics; please do not hesitate to enjoy those.

Ryan Murphy Experience Blog Update

It has been almost 2 straight months now (about the length of the Charlotte Bobcats losing streak) that I have not posted anything on here. I’ve been really busy with school, as I’ve been starting, and now finishing, final projects and papers. School ends in about 2 weeks so that’s when I’ll really start blogging again. Just wanted to let all my followers know this, and I hope you still continue to read and comment as you used to.
Thank you,
Ryan J. Murphy

JON VOIGHT Video Clips....posted by Ann Taylor

If you believe all of Hollywood is backing OBAMA...THINK AGAIN.....           

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=253PiA7zIl4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJfbUxTlqMs&feature=related

Recipe for Cinnamon Bread Pudding....by Ann Taylor

I came upon a new recipe for Cinnamon Bread Pudding.  I shared it with family and gave some to friends.  My Mom always lists bread pudding when we talk about favorite desserts so when I saw this new recipe I thought I would give it a whirl.  I changed a few ingredients (the recipe calls for raisins and I substituted milk chocolate chips and added a few Hershey cinnamon chips).  Anyways....the end result was something that everyone LOVED, both friends and family.  My Mom enjoyed it so much she suggested I post the recipe on the blog so....here it is....

1 loaf of cinnamon bread cut into 1" cubes (I used Pepperidge Farm)
1/4 c Hershey cinnamon chips
1/4 c milk chocolate chips
1/3 c orange juice
1 stick melted margarine
2 c milk
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 c sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a 2 qt casserole with non-stick spray.
Combine milk chocolate chips and cinnamon chips with orange juice.  Soak for 15 minutes.
Place bread cubes in a large bowl.  Add melted margarine.  Toss to coat.
Spread buttered bread cubes on a cookie sheet and bake in oven until golden brown.  Allow to cool.
Evenly distribute cooled bread cubes in the 2-qt casserole.
Top bread cubes with soaked chips so they are evenly distributed.
In a medium bowl, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, salt and vanilla, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved and mixture is smooth.
Pour mixture over bread cubes and refrigerate 15 minutes.
Place in oven and bake until center is set.  Approximately 45minutes.
Remove from oven and cool 15 minutes before serving.  Refrigerate leftovers.  Leftovers are best served warm--microwave for a minute or so.

A Little Classroom Time....by Ann Taylor

A very cherished friend sent me the link shown below.  It is political HOWEVER, both parties and all politicians are represented as foolish....except for ONE man.  There was only one Ronald Reagan and he is still missed.  If you check out this link you will see why many of us still miss....and will always miss...Ronald Reagan....we sure could use a Ronald Reagan today!
Enjoy......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3h8O7V-WxWQ&feature=youtu.be

Loyalty....by Ann Taylor

http://widget.newsinc.com/_cfvp/playlist16x9_player.html?CID=507&WID=7877&VID=23613072&freewheel=90001&sitesection=timesunion_us_non_sty

This is a video that depicts loyalty.  Pure, blind loyalty.  For those who know me, you know loyalty is a treasured quality.  My parents taught us loyalty is one of the most important characteristics a person can have.  If you think about what loyalty means, you can understand why loyalty is considered a GOOD trait.  It means you stand by your friends when nobody else is there for them.  When someone you care about doesn't have anyone there for them--YOU are there.  It doesn't matter if it's a big problem they are dealing with or a little problem; if you're loyal you are there through thick and thin for your friends.

Loyalty to friends seems to have become a lost concept--that is very sad.  So, if you know anyone that needs a visual of what loyalty to a friend is--show them this video.  If a picture is worth a thousand words, this video is worth a billion!

HAPPY EASTER & HAPPY PASSOVER.....by Ann Taylor

Wishing everyone a wonderful Easter!  
In honor of this season, this is a link to some information regarding the origins of Easter, the Easter Bunny and the Easter Eggs.  Whether you believe it or not is entirely up to you.  In either case, enjoy this Easter weekend!
http://www.deathandtaxesmag.com/181447/easter-and-its-pagan-origins/

Wishing everyone a peaceful Passover!
In honor of the Passover season, this is a link to some information regarding the holiday.  If this is your holiday, enjoy the Passover Season!  http://www.akhlah.com/holidays/pesach/traditions.php

Happy Birthday Ma....by Ann Taylor

Happy Birthday to my Mom a.k.a "Ma".  

Dog Welcoming Soldier Home Video.....by Ann Taylor

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/trending-now/video-ecstatic-dog-welcoming-soldier-home-goes-viral-220608744.html

This is a "feel good" video.  It is so cute!  Enjoy!!!

NEW BLOG INTRODUCTION...by Ann Taylor

I would like to introduce you to a NEW EAST GREENBUSH BLOG, http://eastgreenbushgadfly.blogspot.com/.

Please peruse and share your comments with them.  You have the security of anonymity.

'The Walls of Belfast'..to be presented by Jack Conway

 Sunday April 1, 2012 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM  East Greenbush Library (Multipurpose Rm)

'The Walls of Belfast' is a multi-media presentation by Dr. Jack Conway on research conducted in Belfast, Northern Ireland during the peace process years of 1998-2000. Belfast is famous for the political wall murals that dominate the landscape in working class Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods.  This presentation includes a comprehensive look at themurals, posters, signs, graffiti and warnings placed on the walls of Belfast by militant political movements seeking to shape and explain the violence of the 'Troubles' in Northern Ireland.

 

Jack Conway is a resident of East Greenbush and a member of the Town's Board of Ethics. He has a doctorate in Anthropology from Brown University and has taught on the faculties of Skidmore College and the University of Albany among other institutions. His specialization is in the study of community politics and he has written extensively on the politics of Ireland and Northern Ireland. In Belfast, his research focused on the militant factions of both Catholic and Protestant communities as he sought to understand the conflict in Northern Ireland from the perspective of those who fought the war.

Dieting...by Ann Taylor

It's no secret that I am a slave to the cocoa bean.  LOVE chocolate (and vanilla and caramel and butterscotch and anything sweet...).  It's also no secret that everyone has a price and my price....is most any baked good or pastry.  I admit it....I am weak when it comes to baked goods...cookies, brownies, cupcakes, cakes, ice cream, etc.  Another little tidbit of information is I am also a big fan of Weight Watchers.  That program works!  I joined Weight Watchers in January 2008 and lost 50 lbs in less than 6 months.  After 1.5 months I felt good enough to add running into my daily schedule.
To this day I still run (about 3.5 miles/day) and follow Weight Watchers.  I fully admit that I am STILL easily tempted by a cookie!  At times I venture beyond my allotted daily points and fall prey to Oreo cookies.  But, I get back on track and follow my points with the program.  It is so true...when you lose weight slowly, and do it the RIGHT way, it really is much easier to keep it off.  Please don't misunderstand, there is always my "inner chubby girl" that is ever so excited to try a new cookie recipe or eat a chocolate cupcake covered in buttercream frosting.  That being said, in moderation, once in awhile it is certainly acceptable to treat yourself to a sugary and sweet pleasure.
So...my question to you....what are some diet secrets, diet plans or exercises you have found to be the most beneficial for you?

St. Patrick's Day....by Ann Taylor

With a maiden name of "Murphy" I cannot let March 17th go by without wishing everyone a very Happy St. Patrick's Day!  This day is also viewed, to some, as the unofficial start of spring...SWEET!

For those that are not Irish let me explain what St. Patrick's Day means to a child of an Irishman.  As many of you know my Dad is Irish, my Mom is Italian.  Guess which one made sure we wore green to school on St. Patrick's Day....you guessed it--MA DID!  She scoured our closets to find a green sweater, blouse, blazer. anything green.  And...to top the outfit off, my sister and I wore green shamrock earrings that Ma had made for us.  Needless to say, we were not exactly the "cool kids".  And we didn't care---we LOVED it!!!!  PLUS, Ma put a green shamrock cookie in our lunches everyday the week of St. Patrick's Day!  SO GREAT!

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

In Search of the BEST Chocolate Chip Cookie....by Ann Taylor

To anyone who knows me, this post will not come as a big surprise.  It's probably more of a surprise that I have not written it before now!

Chocolate chip cookies are the number 1 most loved cookie in the world according to "Yummy Desserts" http://your-yummy-desserts.com/tag/top-5-cookies.  That's a great little "fact" BUT, it is not specific.  Some chocolate chip cookies are better than others (all are good but some are better).

Some people love Freihofers cookies, some love Chips Ahoy, some like Famous Amos, others like Mrs. Fields, and the list goes on and on.  The pre-made dough even has subtle differences.  Some prefer Nestle, others Pillsbury, and others like Hershey.  Mr. Subb features David's brand and those are very tasty.

So..question to YOU....what is YOUR favorite chocolate chip cookie?

Bounty System....by Ryan J. Murphy

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/2012/03/bounty-system-by-ryan-j-murphy.html

Don't know what a "Bounty System" means?  Check out Ryan's link to find out!

Leaders....by Ryan J. Murphy

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/2012/03/leaders-by-ryan-j-murphy.html

Please check this link and submit comments.  It's a perspective on team leaders in sports.  Pretty interesting.

America's Tax Returns.....by Ann Taylor

http://taxfoundation.org/taxdata/show/27235.html

The above link will take you to a chart created by the Tax Foundation.  At this time of year (TAX TIME) I thought it may be an opportune time to review this information and to see who is paying what.
I hope you find this site informative.

Slam Dunkers...by Ryan J. Murphy

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/2012/02/slam-dunkers-by-ryan-j-murphy.html

Could it Be Global Warming? And Where To Go For Lunch?----by Ann Taylor

If you are someone that is worried about global warming than this is NOT the post for you...skip it, move on, you will hate it.  For the rest of you...you may enjoy it.

We have all noticed the unseasonably warm winter we are having.  I took a friend to look at cars at lunch and we were talking about the weather.  He said it was a little chilly today and I laughed because compared to what we should be encountering on February 24th this was not at all a chilly day.  When I said that, he then started laughing and agreed.  I said this is one those rare instances I hope Al Gore was right---if this is global warming then BRING IT ON!!  The two of us could not stop laughing about it.  My friend had read an article that said if the temperature rose just one degree there would be less deaths because so many people die from freezing.  My response...I bet the penguins wouldn't mind!  If you have ever seen March of the Penguins (sad movie, by the way), I bet they would have no problem with a few extra degrees while they are making that trek!  My friend and I continued laughing and then we began talking about the polar bears.  We both agreed they would probably be a tad happier with just a one degree uptick on the earth's thermostat.  Now, keep in mind, this was simply a silly and fun conversation.

On the way back, he wanted to stop and grab his lunch somewhere.  I suggested Nicky G's because we were  about to drive right past it.  He got a slice of sausage pizza.

If you were on Columbia Tpke and a friend asked where they could grab a quick lunch where would you suggest?

New York... Greatest Sports City? - By Ryan J. Murphy

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/

Weigh in with your thoughts!

Surfing by Michael Cristo

The inclusion of Ryan here has been a great addition and a welcome change with a fresh focus on new topics.  I enjoy his writing style and the fact that he can express a thought or opinion in far fewer words than I can.  It's been a nice change of pace.

With this change of direction, I've been waiting for inspiration to hit and it came from TV last night.  These days I hate the fact that I have 1000 channels to watch and it seems like there is never anything on, so perhaps like many people, I just surf and try to find something.

In surfing, I have found some of the dumbest shows that absolutely implore me to watch... and I have.  Over the weekend I found myself too curious to ignore Hillbilly Hand Fishing and watched an episode of that.  One is plenty!  Not exactly on my bucket list of things to do before I die.  At least they don't have to bleep out every other word, so it seems that oddly enough, in the most  unsophisticated of sports... they have a little class.

I think hand fishing was on Animal Planet and I was doing some work while it was on so I didn't change the channel.  The following show, was far more enticing, Gator Boys!  A couple of crazy guys who get alligators out of people's yards in Florida!  No guns or tranquilizers, these guys go in with their bare hands, dive in the water and wrestle the alligators out.  Apologize to them, kiss them on the snout and bring them to a nature preserve.  FREAKS!  It's a train wreck you can't help but watch.

Surfing took a tragic turn last night as I couldn't help but see what "Curious and Unusual Deaths" was about.  Can't believe that deserved a show or that anybody would want their story told on THAT show.  What a rotten way to be famous.  Didn't watch the whole thing, surfed over to "Saving Ronald Reagan" which was actually interesting.  However, we hit rock bottom right after that... A show that said, "Don't turn the dial, this you HAVE to see!"  No gators, no fish, no death.  A show that actually made me say, "You've got to be kidding me!"  and I had to watch.

HALF TON MOM!  And it's exactly what it says.  A lady, 29 years old, was 900 LBS!  How is THAT possible.  She had gastric bypass surgery.  How does that help?  Even if you lose 500 pounds, you're still morbidly obese and have all this extra skin!  Thank God I fell asleep before it was over and woke up to turn off the TV.

If there is something that is a don't miss, please share it.  Most prime time shows are far less interesting.  Makes Professional Bull Riding look far more sane.

Range Rover Evoque- By Ryan J. Murphy

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/

I realize that I am mainly writing about sports, but beautiful luxury cars have always fascinated me. This morning, while watching Mike and Mike in the Morning on ESPN, I saw a commercial for the new Range Rover Evoque. The new design looked very cool and sleek. I wanted to blog a little bit about it.

Range Rover’s manufacturer is Land Rover, whose parent company is Jaguar Land Rover. With just that being said, you know you’re talking about a luxury car. These types of cars are assembled in Halewood, England. The Range Rover Evoque is considered an SUV, and its concept is LRX. The LRX concept retains the nice features and off-road capabilities of a Range Rover, but is also fuel effiecient, which in this day in age is important. The interior is intended to stay true to Range Rover, and is very luxurious. It has a sun roof, and touch screen entertainment system. The Evoque has a lot of different interior choices, 12 to be exact, while wood and/or metal can be chosen. It has 12 different exterior colors as well, and has 3 contrasting roof choices. The Evoque is equipped with 4-wheel drive and a system that maximizes traction in a lot of different conditions. It can be built as a 3 or 5 door SUV. The MPG for this vehicle is 19 city, 29 highway, which is very good for an SUV, especially a luxury SUV. The starting value for the Evoque is $43,995.

I put a few interior images on the bottom of this page. To see all exterior colors, here is a link to the Evoque on cars.com:

http://www.cars.com/go/configurator/colors.jsp?makeid=26&modelid=11251&year=2012

Click the “Add Colors” tab, then select the color you’d like to view. Personally, my favorite colors on the Evoque are Firenze Red and Fiji White.

What are your thoughts on this new SUV by Land Rover?

I will not be checking the comments on this post, or any posts on Ann and Mr. Cristo's blog, therefore if you would like to directly converse with me about anything, please feel free to comment on my blog's post. A link will be put in all of my posts on this blog, to directly send you to the post on my blog.

Thanks again,

Ryan.

My Own Blog- By Ryan J. Murphy

I have created my own blog, which is strictly going to be about sports. I will continue to post on Ann and Mr. Cristo's  blog, with various other topics. I would like all the followers I could possibly have, and the more comments, the better. I love talking about sports with whomever I can, and look forward to it with all of you on my own blog.

Here is the link to my blog:

http://theryanmurphyexperience.blogspot.com/

Thank you,

Ryan

“I Will Be Taking My Talents To… Cleveland?” – By Ryan J. Murphy

During the free agency period in 2010, LeBron James decided to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and “take his talents to South Beach,” to play with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. When he made this announcement he would be joining the Heat, the loyal Cavaliers fans rioted. The fans even burned their LeBron James’ jerseys. He did a television special letting the world know of his choice to join the Heat, which really blew the entire situation out of proportion. Last season, the return to Cleveland to play the Cavaliers was much anticipated. It was the first time Cleveland fans saw LeBron in a different jersey up close. They booed him like crazy. The Heat ended up putting the hurt on the Cavs, winning the game 118-90.

Recently in an interview, James was asked about playing in Cleveland again, and said, “I think it would be great, it would be fun to play in front of these fans again. You can’t predict the future… If I decide to come back hopefully the fans will accept me.” The fans in Cleveland have mixed emotions about “King James’” comments. One very disgusted fan said, “LeBron can go to h*ll,” while others are forgiving him since it’s been a year and a half now. He signed a 6-year deal worth $110 million in 2010. So by the time James’ contract is up, I think he’ll have matured, and therefore a return to the Cavs could be possible. It’s about 4 and a half years away, and fans will most likely have gotten over his betrayal of them, and welcome him back.

Peyton Manning’s Future- By Ryan J. Murphy

So as you all probably know by now, there is a lot of drama surrounding Peyton Manning and his future. After his 3, and apparently now 4, neck surgeries, he was unable to play in this year’s NFL season. Without his presence on the field, the Indianapolis Colts fell to the NFL’s worse record, 2-14, and now have the first pick in the NFL draft. It has been stated for the past few months that the Colts will use their first pick to draft Stanford quarterback, Andrew Luck. So… the Colts have a decision to make. Do they draft Luck, and keep Manning, which will amount to around $50 million, paying 2 quarterbacks? Do they pass on drafting Andrew Luck, in hopes that Manning is 100% healthy to play next year? Peyton Manning’s doctors have deemed that he is healthy enough to play football, while others claim he can’t even grip a football. This puts the Colts in a very risky predicament. Or finally, do the Colts draft Luck, and cut their long time franchise quarterback Peyton Manning?

In my opinion, the answer is simple. Plan for the future. You have to part ways with Manning, start fresh, and build around the #1 draft pick Andrew Luck. This is the scenario that is most likely to happen, meaning Peyton Manning is without a team for the 2012 season. There are many teams in the NFL that are in dire need of an answer at the quarterback position. The 35-year-old Manning could still put in another good 3 years or so, assuming he is healthy. Manning said he’d like to retire as a Colt, but again, it’s very unlikely to happen. So… that being said, whom does he sign with in 2012? Teams like the Jets, 49ers, Seahawks, and Browns are all possibilities, but not very logical. Many New York Jets fans would love to see Manning replace current QB Mark Sanchez. This would mean we would get to see Peyton Manning and the Jets play Tom Brady and the Patriots at least twice a season. This would also mean Peyton and Eli Manning would share the big bad city, which would be quite a story, although I don’t see the Jets taking a chance on Manning, after the Brett Favre debacle a few years ago. This leaves 3 more realistic options. The Miami Dolphins, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Washington Redskins. The Dolphins just signed former Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin, to be their head coach. I believe Matt Flynn, the Packers back-up QB, will sign a contract with Miami. This leaves the Redskins and Cardinals. I think the Redskins will look at signing Flynn, but ultimately end up drafting Robert Griffin III, in the NFL draft in April. That leaves one team, the Cardinals. If Manning does join the Cardinals, he’ll find a familiar face there, because they hired Manning’s old quarterbacks coach, Frank Reich. Imagine Peyton Manning throwing the ball to Larry Fitzgerald, one of the top receivers in the NFL today. In my eyes, this is the most realistic fit for Peyton. Although I wouldn’t be surprised to see him end up in Washington or Miami, I think it’ll be with the Arizona Cardinals.

What do you think the Colts should do? Should they keep Peyton Manning? Or should they draft Andrew Luck, and cut Manning? If the Colts do cut Manning, what city do you think he’ll end up playing in during the 2012 NFL season?

Lin- Sanity compared to Tebow- Mania. – By Ryan J. Murphy

Jeremy Lin has taken the sports world by surprise in the last week and a half, breaking Shaquille O’Neil’s record of most points scored in his first 5 games in the NBA. This story is the most talked about story in sports right now, and it’s easy to see why. The Knicks as a team haven’t been this intriguing to watch for a while now. ESPN cannot stop taking about Lin-Sanity. But is all the hype about Jeremy Lin comparable to that of Tebow- Mania? I say yes, and here’s why…

Tim Tebow was arguably the best player to grace a college football field, whereas Lin wasn’t even known in college. In fact, he wasn’t even known 2 weeks ago. The hype is very similar, in that both players have become very popular very quickly, and even the general public knows who each player is. Although, when it comes to their respective sports, you can’t compare these athletes statistically. Lin is dominating, scoring points and leading the Knicks to victory, whereas Tebow has lead the Broncos to victory on numerous occasions, but looks horrendous doing it. Indeed they are both winners, but not comparable statistics wise. Jeremy Lin is a better passer than Tim Tebow (yes, I made a Tebow joke). I think the Lin story is much more comparable to that of Kurt Warner’s story, where he came from practically nothing, hit the field, and became a star. The publicity and hype that is surrounding Lin is like what Tebow got during last season, and are easily comparable, but I don’t think their individual stories as athletes can be compared.

What are your thoughts?

Numbers and a little football by Michael Cristo

I have no idea what happened to the number for the postings.  When I originally put them on it was it was a major undertaking for me because it dealt with computer coding and cutting and pasting lines of commuter text into HTML, blah blah blah that I had no idea what I was doing, have no idea how I did it and I don't not have the time to try and figure it out again right now.  I'm kind of hoping it returns as magically as they disappeared, so I apologize for the change.  It's nothing we did, I guess the blogs have a mind of their own at times.   If I can figure it out, I will get them back.  Right now, I need to go out and stock up on Twinkies and Ho Ho's!  Given their shelf lives, I should be able to buy a lifetime supply!

Out of curiosity, are there any bets on the playoffs this weekend?  Gotta be honest, I'm torn on the Green Bay/Giants game.  I was a Green Bay fan back when they were real bad during college, but find it difficult to stay a fan, (I'm an underdog man).  These days, I'm a Giant's fan.

That notwithstanding, pure talent implores routing for the Saints.  I watched Drew Brees when he broke the record and the team is simply fluid and complete.  Brees was just impressive and I don't see anyone beating them, but i understand that the 49ers has a hell of a defense, so it should be a couple of great games.

On the other side... I join a good many people in not being a Brady fan and i'd like to see the Broncos take them down.  Little too much Tebow hype for my liking, but would still like to them win.

For my money, I think a Green Bay/ Saints match up would be a better game than the Super Bowl and I'd like to see it.  Have my doubts on the Giants being able to beat the Saints, so I guess I'm pulling for the Giants, but won't be disappointed or surprised if the don't pull it off.

Other than that, don't really care about the other games.  if the Broncos beat the Pats, I'm guessing the Ravens would advance, but I really have no idea what I'm talking about.

Off to get my twinkles... never like the sno-balls.

Twinkies Falls Victim to Pension & Health Benefits.....by Ann Taylor

Check it out!!!!!  Glenn Beck agrees with me----he loves Twinkies!!!!
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/twinkies-maker-hostess-seeks-bankruptcy-132215604.html

It's sad!  It's just really, really sad!  Even TWINKIES can't escape the unrelenting rising costs of the union's pension and health care.  Per the above reference:

"In its filing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, Hostess disclosed that its biggest unsecured creditor is the Bakery & Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund, which it owes approximately $944.2 million.

Its second-largest unsecured creditor, Central States, Southeast and Southwest Areas Pension Plan is owed far less, about $11.8 million."

When Twinkies can't survive the costs (keep in mind obesity is on the rise in the United States) what are the rest of us suppose to do?  They also stated increased competition is hurting them.  They employ 19,000 and operate in 49 states.  

It's a very sad day when 19,000 people will fall prey to the union's rising pension costs and health care costs.  Sometimes there needs to be ALOT of give and take in order to save ALOT of people.  

Today---go have some Twinkies!  It's a little "bite" of Americana that we may lose due to the economy!  Enjoy it while you can.

Politics and Chimps---Have we REALLY evolved.......by Ann Taylor

I was watching a show on NatGeo last January (January 23rd to be exact).  I recalled an email discussion I had with some friends regarding the topic discussed and decided to troll through my email archive to find it.  I did and would like to share it with all of you now; the topic and discussion are as timely as ever!  The show was called Mutant Planet.  True title, real show check your cable listings if you don't believe me.  Anyways, I watched the show.  It discussed certain traits that some species have adapted to insure survival of the species.  This episode focused on The Great Rift in Africa. 

One of the species they studied was the chimpanzee.  If you know me at all you know I am all about chimpanzees; LOVE them!  So the show pulled me in further because of the chimps.  Chimpanzees have a diet similar to humans, they eat both plant and animal life.  Here is the funny part--they don't need the "animal" life to survive.  They can easily survive on plant life and be strictly herbivores.  So why do they hunt and kill some animals and eat the meat????  POLITICS!  No lie!  POLITICS!  The narrator used the word POLITICS!  When the "alpha" male hunts and kills he shares the meat with the other males that he is "friends" with to insure their support down the road!  So I ask you...have we REALLY evolved!  The most powerful chimps catch the meat and then divide it out to their friends--similar to what we do with appointed jobs isn't it????? And for me...that kind of said it all.....how involved do I truly want to be in politics if this is based on CHIMP society.  I mean, I love chimpanzees but I would like to think I am a tad more advanced than they are. 

And by the way, the other reason they hunt and kill for meat, that they really don't need--for SEX!  Yup!  After they share the meat with the males of their choice they share what is left over with females--the females remember the male shared the meat and provide "favors" later. 

Yeah-----we really advanced from our distant cousins!  

 

Enjoy your day and hopefully we each do something today that places us MUCH higher on the food chain (or at least on the brain train)!

Food or Alarm...by Ann Taylor

A few funny things happened Saturday.  Actually it wasn't a funny thing that occurred, it was everyone's reaction to it that was funny.  I will explain.

I was having lunch at Panera.  They were serving a big crowd and doing a great job.  Everyone was friendly and the food was great.  While I was sitting and enjoying my meal, an alarm sounded...and sounded....and sounded....and sounded.  The employees in the food preparation area all looked at one another and each said they didn't do it.  Mind you, this alarm is sounding loudly enough so people on the other side of the Hudson can hear it....yet not one person interrupted their meal to get up and leave, including me.  I assume everyone believed it was a false alarm but for me....well....it takes a WHOLE LOT of distraction for me to leave my meal...not even an ear piercing alarm could pry me from my food.  Then the manager began walking around and instructing customers they had to leave.  Guess what everyone's next move was----each one of us picked up our food and took it with us.  Not one of us was willing to leave our food---we simply took it and ate it out in the parking lot!  This was not a decision made collectively at a meeting or even by taking a vote.  None of us spoke, we simply reacted and we all decided the food was just way too important to leave behind.  As I left Panera (food in hand) I could not stop laughing and thought, "In many ways all people are alike!  Food comes first!"

Food or Alarm???  Guess many of us would choose food.  What's your favorite meal?

Happy New Year by Michael Cristo

I was thinking about how difficult the past couple of years have been politically, not just here in East Greenbush, but nationally and wondering where we go from here... again nationally.

It's easy to get caught up in our own firestorm of politics here, but when you read financial papers, national headlines and look at the economy from different perspectives around the country, it seems almost everywhere, except maybe north Dakota, things are not improving much.

Here in the Albany area and in limited spots around the country, there is an appearance of things moving pretty well; however, that seems to be larger projects where major capital is being invested and benefiting a relatively small segment of the population.  If you belong to one of the state unions, you felt the pain a little more this year than ever before and things are changing as we are getting to a point where we are at a breaking point with raising taxes and everyone is being forced to give a little bit.

I just watched a report that said that movie ticket sales were way down last year because the prices are too high and there are enough alternatives to seeing a movie and the public is expecting MORE out of their movie experience, meaning it has to be REALLY good to merit going to the theater.

Man, when hollywood is taking a hit we are in real trouble because it doesn't seem we produce too much else these days.  I'm not sure what 2012 has in store, but it seems that if things on a national scale don't improve soon, we are going to continue to feel the pain in our own back yard.

I'm not sure what projects are on the boards for East Greenbush, but it seems that despite all of the projects we have approved over the years, our taxes don't change much.  While I have the highest hopes for an improving economic condition, it appears that we may not have seen the worst of this economy yet.  Banks still aren't lending, people aren't spending, (and when I say people, there is a lot of BIG money still sitting on the sidelines.  Not sure what they are waiting for, but they are re-entering the market with great trepidation.)

Maybe we are truly at a point where both sides need to put the needs of the public ahead of their own personal ambition and the needs and wants of their party.  The over spending needs to stop, the excess needs to stop and at some point we need to have a greater vision for tomorrow.  The fingers crossed approach hasn't yielded much in the way of progress.  We need to be more proactive and as we have seen in East Greenbush, we the public, need to be more involved.

Government will only do what public opinion pushes them to do.  Given the opportunity you pander to special interest, they will every time, unless doing so will impact their ability to get re-elected.

Whatever the New Year has ahead, I hope it brings, good health, prosperity and good fortune to all... we sure could use it!