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Care in crosswalk
I am very conscious of the difficulty of crossing Main Street in front of the Roxy, as I often do it myself (“Inconveniencing You?”, Oct. 21-17). I do want to say, though, as a driver, that visibility there is frequently a problem, due to cars parked on Main, as well as the lousy lighting of the cross-walk area at night. I always approach the crosswalk with the assumption that I will have to stop, but always with an eye in my rear-view mirror as cars without the same anticipation approach behind me. I am surprised that there haven’t been accidents there, and would never start to cross as a pedestrian until I am sure that the cars see me and are stopping.
Crosswalks dangerous
I appeal to the Potsdam Police Dept and NY State Troopers to patrol the crosswalks. My daughter was in the crosswalk near Evan’s and White when she was missed by a few inches by an irate driver who wanted her to hurry, even though she had the right of way. Please park near a crosswalk in Potsdam and watch what happens within 15 minutes. There’s too much of this going on and there is certain to be another fatality or serious injury.
Go Girl Scouts
In this day and age, when all we hear about is how lazy and inconsiderate our youth are, one only has to read about the Girl Scouts who built the duck boxes. It may seem to be an insignificant thing, but at least these girls learned about wood ducks, and I’m pretty sure they learned something about themselves in the process. I, for one, would like to say thanks, and keep up the good work in everything you do.
Road budget underfunded
I recently attended a finance meeting with the county legislators over the county highway budget. I was very surprised as to how this process works. Our legislators have a very hard task; however, I was amazed at how easy our legislators could cut funds from the highway budget without batting an eye. I for one would like to say that cutting funds from the highway budget is not a very good idea. Perhaps if the legislators spent some time traveling around to the different crews to see just what they do maybe they would understand that the highway workforce is to small. Our roads and bridges are in very poor shape and in need of repair and maintenance. I would like to suggest to the voting public that the next time you drive on a rough road or hit a very large pothole you take in to consideration that the highway crews are doing the best they can to fix these problems however being understaffed and having very little funds there is not much they can do.
Old way cheaper
Here’s an idea. Instead of fleecing New Yorkers for another increase on license plates, and those window decals that never stick because the state government decided to go low bid on the glue that makes them stick to the windows, why not just go back to the way it was and just issue a decal that marks the renewed year and stick it to the corner of the plate? It never fell off my trailer or motor cycle. This should be done for all vehicles, even snowmobiles. I’m sure it’s cheaper, besides, who are we kidding anyway? You can’t see the reflective coating on the plates, please! We weren’t all born at night!
One-plate issue
It looks like the efforts of the St Lawrence County Clerk were squashed big time by the “powers that be” in Albany, and we will be getting new vehicle plates beginning in April 2010. The new plate is being shown on the TV news and, in my opinion, is a nice improvement over the color and design of the current plate and certainly will be an improvement on readability. It appears that New York State plans to issue two plates again for most vehicles, with exceptions. There have been times in the past that only one plate was issued. As long as the state is seeking ways to cut expenses, why isn’t someone suggesting that we go to a “one plate issue”? Doesn’t it make sense that the manufacturing expense would be cut in half; the postage expense would be cut in half; shipping expense to all motor vehicle offices in the state would be less; storage and handling of a “one plate issue” would be simplified and would work out better for all concerned. Other states have a one-plate issue that seems to be no problem for them enforcement-wise or any other way. So, Albany, if you’re looking to save money and cut expenses, think about this!
One-plate issue
It looks like the efforts of the St Lawrence County Clerk were squashed big time by the “powers that be” in Albany, and we will be getting new vehicle plates beginning in April 2010. The new plate is being shown on the TV news and, in my opinion, is a nice improvement over the color and design of the current plate and certainly will be an improvement on readability. It appears that New York State plans to issue two plates again for most vehicles, with exceptions. There have been times in the past that only one plate was issued. As long as the state is seeking ways to cut expenses, why isn’t someone suggesting that we go to a “one plate issue”? Doesn’t it make sense that the manufacturing expense would be cut in half; the postage expense would be cut in half; shipping expense to all motor vehicle offices in the state would be less; storage and handling of a “one plate issue” would be simplified and would work out better for all concerned. Other states have a one-plate issue that seems to be no problem for them enforcement-wise or any other way. So, Albany, if you’re looking to save money and cut expenses, think about this!
Votes wasted
How could anyone go to the polls and vote for Dede Scosofava when she had withdrawn? Do people live under rocks and not watch any news or listen to any radio? What a waste with her gathering some six percent of the vote in such a tight race. Know it is not over, but what a mess this has created. Smarten up folks!
Not wasted
The national news is already analyzing the more than 7,000 votes that Dede Scozzafava got that could have gotten Mr. Hoffman elected to office. Those 7,000 people rose up and said we like higher property taxes, we like ACORN, we like gay marriage, we like the direction that Obama is taking this country. Those votes were not wasted at all.
NorthCountryNow not liberal
For what it's worth, Mediamatters.org is not just a liberal blog, but a watchdog group who do keep an eye on the misinformation that comes from the conservative news agencies, websites, etc. Since most of what they put on the web is based in video and transcripts from the conservative groups they watch, I am not sure how the writer considers that opinion only. So, where NCN places it on their website is up to them. I suppose the writer didn't have any problem with Hoffman ads popping up all over the site during the recent 23rd district election.
Overnight parking
Since the college students have returned, I have found it increasingly difficult to find a parking space in any of the overnight parking lots. I live in an apartment downtown and have to leave by 7 in the morning to drive to my job in a neighboring town. Luckily, there is a local business that I know I can park at because they know me and my vehicle, but it is quite a ways away from my apartment, and having to walk so far to get to my car in the morning when I’m pressed for time to get to work is not very convenient, or very pleasant now that it’s getting colder out in the mornings. What I don’t understand is why so many spaces in the lot across from the Roxy theatre are no parking from 3 to 6 a.m. If these spots were freed up for overnight parking that would help. I would even be willing to pay for a monthly permit to park in these spaces overnight. I think that the village needs to consider this as a serious issue. There simply aren’t enough overnight parking spaces -- end of story.
You from around here?
Election Day: Just drove through Canton and saw Hoffman folks with signs and their Virginia-plated Caddy with Hoffman signs plastered all over it. Aren’t we in New York?
Thank the hunters
To the person(s) who think there are poachers, road hunters, etc., hunting around their house (“Inconsiderate Hunters,” Oct. 28-Nov. 3): First, do not call the Sheriff’s Department, call the game warden. I find it hard to believe that if there is so much illegal hunting happening, others would also be complaining and there would be an arsenal of DEC there to patrol. If the property next to you is designated legal hunting grounds, as you stated “it’s not your property,” so it’s none of your business who hunts there. If there is illegal activity, then report it, but do not criticize all hunters. Think about the good hunters do for this area by keeping the deer population down so they don’t devour your gardens and landscaping. I know three people that recently had their cars all but totaled by deer and one by a bear! So put in some ear plugs until Dec. 6 and be grateful for the 99.9% of law-abiding hunters that respect the sport and hunt for the good of providing food for their family.
Judge not
I was extremely ticked off by the mean-spirited response (“Consideration,” Nov. 4-10) to the person who couldn’t afford boots for her children (“...Didn’t Know What To Do,” Oct. 28-Nov. 3). Who gave you the right to decide who should and shouldn’t have children? Having children is a basic human need and right. Waive that right if you wish, but the very idea that having children is only for the affluent is elitist arrogance at its worst. Children really don’t need much: food, clothing and shelter and caring parents who have time for them. I find it sad that someone has to choose between garbage disposal and boots for her children and we should be supportive, not judgemental. Sure there are people who have children without giving any thought for providing for them, but you have no idea. Maybe she could afford them when she had them and then she lost her job or her husband left. Or it could be a father who is trying to provide for his family while his salary doesn’t keep up with inflation. Times are tough and sometimes children provide the only joy there is. Here’s a novel idea for you: don’t judge people you don’t know.
Technology?
Voting today in Colton, what a joke. This is the most backward system I’ve seen. Where has technology gone? It sure wasn’t used in this new system. Boy do we need help in this costly venture. Hope someone takes heed to this, and puts smarts to this outdated system. Wow, what a letdown.
NorthCountryNow too liberal?
Recently I have noticed your inclusion of mediamatters.org in "News" section of your homepage. This Extreme Liberal leaning website that is solely opinion based, belongs in your opinion section. It is obvious the folks at NCNOW are liberal leaning when you look at the overall content of the website, but by including this opinion blog in your News section you are making it all to obvious. Content from that website should be included in your Opinion Section only!
No turn on red!
I really do wonder if someone will have to die before the police in this town start ticketing people for running red lights at the Stewart’s intersection in Potsdam. I am a mother who often walks to get ice cream with my son in a stroller. We have missed being run over at least four times in the last two weeks. The lights will all be red, there is a clearly marked “no turn on red” sign and we have a walk sign at the crosswalk. We start to walk across and suddenly we are nearly flattened by a car running a red light. I see people run red lights two or three times a day in this town and I have yet to see a police officer pull anyone over for it. My friend and I were walking home after dinner tonight both of us pushing our babies in strollers when a car ran the intersection of Market and Elm. Again we had the right of way and the walk sign and were almost mowed down. I have started carrying my cell phone with me and the next time it happens I will be alerting the police.
Germy hands off!
During this time of the year, we are all concerned about the flu bugs that are going around. I have an infant son and it seems as though each time someone stops me in a public place they feel the need to touch my son’s hands and face. We all know that babies put their hands in their mouths at all possible moments. I know people do not do this to cause intentional harm, but please oh please help stop putting my son in danger.
So, no one denied?
Responding to “No One Denied” (Oct. 7-13): In June 2005 I was declared disabled by an orthopedic surgeon and neurologist. I applied for disability and it was an ongoing battle until I was awarded benefits in 2007. Did you know you have to be on disability for two years before you are eligible for Medicare? Did you know there is also a five-month waiting period once you are eligible? So for 56 months I have been without health coverage. My wife has also been declared disabled. She is not eligible for Medicaid and because she hasn’t worked in the past five years, she cannot receive Medicare. She worked and paid into the system when she was younger, but stayed home to raise our children. This is the reason I am for a national healthcare plan. We deserve better than what we are getting right now. After all, we did pay into the system which is now failing us.
Stop complaining
Wow, it’s been a while since I read the Sound Off and now I know why: open air burning “cease fire” the Gestapo? Get off your high horse. What we’re talking about here is poison, not only in your lungs but also in our children’s, and if you don’t care then go stick your head in a furnace. Senseless crime in Potsdam? Well, this is what we’ve given our children by letting them play violent video games and watch horribly violent movies. It’s okay to be mean. Teaching parents to praise kids? Yeah, and telling people they shouldn’t have kids isn’t going to help. They have them already. Parenting classes might help, but having parents they can emulate in a positive way would be much better. Unfortunately, no one needs to take responsibility for themselves anymore. It’s always someone else’s fault. That’s why someone will always be burning something they shouldn’t, hurting someone they shouldn’t, and not paying attention to the child they need to pay attention to. Stop complaining and start doing!
Burn barrels: consideration key
To the author of “...Didn’t Know What To Do” (Oct. 28-Nov. 3): I believe it is clear that the local population is divided on the issue of burn barrels. You are entitled to your opinion, as I am to mine. I am an educated member of the community, and I am aware of the negative impacts on our environment due to burning toxic products. My problem with the ban is that I, and apparently many others, only burned paper to begin with. I found your statement regarding my choice to have children very offensive and judgmental. You clearly want to make a statement and I would hate for you to be uninformed; I had my two sons before my husband was laid off from his job last fall. I’m surprised that the news of the recent recession is new to you. Many people are no longer able to afford what they once were! Mind your tongue and have some consideration of others before you make such ignorant remarks.
Teachers there to help
In response to the writer of “Homework Policy Not Fair” (Oct. 28-Nov. 3), she should know that all summative homework (like research papers) is still to be graded. (Practice homework may be graded but cannot count for more that 10% of the overall grade.) Of course, quizzes and tests will also be graded. If your child freezes on tests, you should speak to teachers about providing differentiation in testing. Maybe your child could take an oral exam or see the teacher privately for the tests. Don’t feel frustrated...the teachers are there to help. Good luck.
Thank you NNCS
I am glad the school district is considering keeping track runners off Route 56. Long over due. This has always bothered me. This is a main truck route and very dangerous. You are not allowed to park on Route 56. Why would you consider putting kids in harm’s way? The paper stated there are alternatives to this unsafe practice. Good going!
Stop for pedestrians
We are writing today to remind drivers of the pedestrians right of way. Again this morning at 7:20 a.m. our son was trying to cross in the crosswalk from Maple Street to Pine Street in Potsdam when he was not given the right of way and a woman in a mini van screamed “watch it a-- hole!” He has almost been hit several times when he has a crossing signal. Traffic coming off Pine Street has a green light when he has a walk signal, but he has the right of way! If the thought of almost hitting someone or breaking the law does not bother you maybe dealing with your insurance rates and the likely fact you will be sued does. Now, does giving a pedestrian the right of way seem a better option than not waiting the few seconds it takes for them to cross? We may even make it our business to start watching and writing down license plates of those who decide that they are in too much of a hurry to let him cross safely to get home after working all night.
Defending crosswalkers
This is a warning to anyone who decides they are in such a hurry they have to drive around my car when I’m stopped at a crosswalk. I am no longer going to sit in my car and hope you don’t hit the person I have stopped for. From now on I am going to take actions into my own hands to insure that I haven’t set someone up to get run over. The next time someone starts to turn to go by me I am going to block them with my car. One of two things will happen: you will manage to stop your car or you will run into the side of my car. Either way the person walking across doesn’t get run down so someone can save 10 seconds.
Why not public schools?
Why do private colleges in St. Lawrence County qualify for a discount in their electric bill, as the governor has announced, but the state colleges and our local public schools in St. Lawrence, Jefferson and Franklin Counties do not? How many local taxpayers will get a savings from the electric discount to these universities? I’m sure that these same taxpayers would benefit more if their local school districts received this discount on their electric rates. Why do local and state officials not see this advantage? This electric discount to these colleges will not help the local unemployment in our county. If this electric savings was applied to our local school districts, the reduced costs in the power bill might lower my local school tax for one year.
Where’s regular vaccine?
Just spent the morning on the phone trying to find regular flu shots for my family. County Public Health, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Walgreen’s, Walmart, Kinney’s, and our private physician all say they are completely out and suggest calling again around Nov. 5. I can understand the shortage and distribution problems with the H1N1 vaccine, which is new, but why the shortage of regular flu shots?
Too old for first shots
The federal government has proven itself to be incompetent in healthcare matters. (Look at the fraud in Medicare!) Now swine flu is threatening us and vaccine is not available for all who want/need it. I want the vaccine, but standing in line won’t do any good because I don’t fit the priority criteria. (I’m too old. Gee, what did Sarah Palin say?) Rationing is already upon us. I was amazed that firemen and policemen are also not priority recipients. Do we really want to give the federal government a bigger control of our healthcare?
Kindness rewarded in Gouverneur
I was on a trip with my two young children, 2 & 5. When I decided to stop at the Nice & Easy in Gouverneur. Well my 5 year-old daughter got out of the truck and held the door for my son & I. She then noticed a women getting out of her car and decided to hold the door for her. The women told her she was very nice to hold the door for her and my daughter said thank you and we went on our way. After a few minutes of walking in the store the women saw us and walked up to us and asked me if she could give my children something. Being a little leery this day and age I thought for a second and said ok. This wonderful women gave my children each 50 cents and told them that they were very good kids and to use the money at the gumball machines the next time we were at the big store. Then she looked at me and said "Thank you so much for doing such a great job raising your kids, they are wonderful." I wrote this not only to share a great story but for people to know that what you say can make a difference in a person’s life. Whoever she was she made my day a whole lot brighter, I always wonder am I doing a good job with my kids. A little kindness goes along way!!
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