Thursday, July 30, 2009
Green economics
This is from Recyclebank.com. This site has a page about other municipalities invovled with the program. This is a very possible program that our community could be a client of and with our economical condition we all can find a benifit.
Greener cities and towns make everyone happy. The more a municipality can save in landfill diversion and make money on recyclables, the more there will be to give back to the community, while giving back to the planet. Teaming up with RecycleBank is a unique opportunity to:
1. Realize significant savings from landfill diversion, while increasing revenue through commodity value of recyclables.
2. Provide households with meaningful savings with valuable RecycleBank Rewards.
3. Drive revenue and customer loyalty for local businesses participating in the RecycleBank Rewards Program.
4. Powerful reporting tools that track program results including participaition, weights, reward redemption and local economic and environmental impact.
There are some nice benefits with this concept. There are still some questions about the program but there is one other Ohio city using this venture and I'm sure they would be happy to talk about the program.
Will this help relieve some of our budgetary problems in order to curb our communities mounting debt? It may. Plus the community receives incentives to spend the rewards in our community. Its a sizable look and weight.
Shane
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
So it’s time for some reflection
Box stacked on box stacked on box of time forgotten recordings littered our family’s dining room floor. Some individual works quickly found themselves on the oak table being shuffled about and placed into unorganized treasure piles of oohs and ahs.

Classical, show tunes, holiday, country, easy, rock, folk, it was all there. Mono, stereo and high-fidelity, the plethora of melody rich diversities, infused with history at variable speeds, was placed before me. They all eagerly and patiently waited for the opportunity to once again return to entertain.

Some were covered in dust, others sprinkled with hints of mold. I thought to myself, nothing that a soft touch couldn’t handle.
Some were heavily finger printed or cardinally scratched; these unfortunate casualties were a sign of well known abuse by former masters. I quickly and attentively tried my best to aid in any prolonged suffering. So far so good, and in most cases there was nothing that a dime taped to the arm of the player couldn’t handle. Things were kosher and for most, a balance was restored.
With so much vinyl, there’s no way I could go wrong. I looked over the bounty as a farmer would his harvest.
A faint whisper of “choose me” started to come from the collection. In a very short time more and more joined in, crafting every effort to get my attention. They yelled out things like “Don’t pass me by”, “I put a spell on you”, “Love me tender” and “Delirious.”
I even heard the cry to pick Beethoven symphonies #’s 5 and 8 and the guarantee of a full spectrum of sound from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The King and I.” Pledges from the wax spun out of control.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a gathering of some waywardly LP’s. They began to shape and construct tactics of a different flair.
Fashioned in seductive and tempting artistic apparel, these arrangements pushed through the crowded table. Some entered with grace and humility, while others were more forward with their approach. These brazen individuals, without hesitation, passionately displayed their influences like a peacock proud of his plumes.

I have to admit it, I was a bit more intrigued and it did create that persuasive argument for candidacy toward a turn at the turntable.
After some time, I made my selection and maneuvered myself throughout the cardboard maze
I placed the colorful collage of vintage covers and the secrets they kept on the living room coffee table.
This small, make shift, meet and greet lounge sparked a mixture of conversations.
The crooners couldn’t help but to make their way to the open stage. I didn’t mind, it was a nice preshow and set a comfortable tone for easier dialogue between all of us.

Drink in hand; I began to mingle my way throughout the crowd, introducing myself as formally as I could. Their reception was very kind and they cheerful drew me in to have a chat.
We shared in a few good laughs. They pointed out once hidden intention and showed me novel writings like “should be played at full volume.” Grinning I continued to shuffle though the lot and familiarize myself with the ensemble.
While working my way through the clusters, I came across an old friend named Wiki Pedia. We’ve talked before and I asked about my selection of groups. Wiki couldn’t wait and jumped at the opportunity to share a vast knowledge about the artist, their careers and other fun little tidbits.
Did you know the guy, between Ringo and Lennon, on the Abbey Road cover was touring England and discovered he was in the photo when the album was released?

Or that the track listings on the back cover of the Rolling Stones, “Let it Bleed” was intended not to match the album purposely? How about Black Sabbaths debut album? It was released on Friday the 13th and all the songs were recorded “live” in three days.

I smiled at Wiki and excused myself to get another drink.
I returned a little later to find the crowd of talent itching to be a part of this lollapalooza. I looked over to Wiki and gave a nod, we were ready. I decided to go with who I knew, made my selection and approached the stage. “This was going to be good” I said as I made the appropriate settings and clicked start.
A silence came about as we all gathered in front of the stage. I took a seat next to Wiki and waited for the kick off of the concert.
A snap and crackle filled the room and soon the opening song began. A lone guitar strummed, as a violin and more instruments entered, enriching the room with their opportunity to narrate a story. Soon a well known voice sang, “Pistol shots ring out in a bar room one night. Enter Patty Valentine from the upper hall. She sees the bartender in a pool of blood, Cries out; My God they killed them all! Here comes the story of the Hurricane.” I was captivated.
As the next song turned, I looked over at Wiki and asked quietly about the folk song "Hurrican". Sinking comfortably in our seats, Wiki told me how the song came about, who was there and what had happened as the artist played his harmonica. Jokingly laughing, I said that "I recently heard the song in a popular adult swim show" and referenced the title. Wiki, face unchanged, reminded me of the significance of the song and how it conveyed throughout generations and stood the test of time. I was thankful to be able to hang out with Wiki.
The night went into the early morning. Artists came and went; their songs lingered throughout the homes hallways and stairs. The lounge was almost bare. Empty beer cans, snack wrappers and cigarette butts took over the spots that skilled, soulful poets once massed. The morning light began to peek into the homes windows; Sunday was approaching. I knew I was worn out and as I looked over toward Wiki, I saw no signs of fatigue.
Even with tired eyes and my head heavy, I had to continue on with determination and respect for my new found friends. We had to finish what we began.

The last group took to the stage and with triumphant sound; the first track shook the homes windows and laid down for future musicians, music’s 10 commandments.
The band performed with a feverish inspiration of musical bliss. Leaning over to Wiki I said, “You can’t argue at the magnitude of their talent. They will live on forever.” Wiki said nothing. I can only assume that Wiki was stunned.
The final track to this sweet night was performed by a soloist and the orchestra that accompanied him. I glanced over at Wiki and saw the signs of being tired but Wiki still wanted to share information with me.
Twelve violins, three violas, three cellos, one harp, three flutes, one clarinet, one horn, one vibraphone, one string bass, the Mike Sammes Singers and written for Julian, the soothing sounds of this lullaby swept through the home. The ensemble escorted in the morning sunlight and provided the perfect narrative toward my efforts as I prepared for bed.
Wiki’s LED continued to flicker orange, my batteries were done too. We took one last look at each and didn’t have to say a word. We both knew that we’d see each other again.
I made my way up the steps to the bedroom. The music began to ease and with a final whisper Starr, warmingly told all of us “Good night. Good night everybody. Everybody, everywhere. Good night.”
Friday, July 24, 2009
The Parties Over
You think that things would settle down a bit, but something has to happen that makes me become even grumpier and more agitated. At one time this neighborhood was peaceful and nothing seems to be out of whack but anymore it has gone pear shaped.
Look I don’t want to be that guy; I was young I did goofy stuff too, but I never caused someone unhappiness.
These youths today have other ideas as to what fun is.
Besides if they were not doing anything unlawful why did they all run away from the home?
On July 24, 2009 a party let out rather quickly. As to why, I don’t know. These youths ran throughout the neighborhood and caused some grief for their after-party. What you don't get to see is what happens after they rush past and the havoc they created for the neighbors down the street. Shameful what some of these youths decide to do without any apprehension for others property.
There is an ordinance for Canton 503.02 CURFEW FOR MINORS.
Thursday night, and between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., Friday night through
Saturday night; provided, however, that the provisions of this section shall not apply to the following:
(1) To a minor accompanied by a parent, guardian, custodian or other
adult person having custody or control of such minor;
(2) To a minor who is on an emergency errand or specific business or
activity directed or permitted by his parent, guardian or other
adult person having the care and custody of the minor;
(3) To a minor whose presence is connected with or required by some
legitimate employment, trade, profession or occupation;
(4) To a minor attending or returning, within one hour after the
conclusion thereof, from any scheduled activity by the Canton
Board of Education such as football or basketball games, or from
any other special function scheduled by any other church, school
or organization, provided that the church, school or organization
shall register the event in advance with the Chief of Police or
his designate, who shall require such information as is necessary
to implement the provisions of this section.
(Ord. 211-86. Passed 9-15-86.)
Our Neighborhoods watching you.
Look I don’t want to be that guy; I was young I did goofy stuff too, but I never caused someone unhappiness.
These youths today have other ideas as to what fun is.
Besides if they were not doing anything unlawful why did they all run away from the home?
On July 24, 2009 a party let out rather quickly. As to why, I don’t know. These youths ran throughout the neighborhood and caused some grief for their after-party. What you don't get to see is what happens after they rush past and the havoc they created for the neighbors down the street. Shameful what some of these youths decide to do without any apprehension for others property.
There is an ordinance for Canton 503.02 CURFEW FOR MINORS.
Thursday night, and between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., Friday night through
Saturday night; provided, however, that the provisions of this section shall not apply to the following:
(1) To a minor accompanied by a parent, guardian, custodian or other
adult person having custody or control of such minor;
(2) To a minor who is on an emergency errand or specific business or
activity directed or permitted by his parent, guardian or other
adult person having the care and custody of the minor;
(3) To a minor whose presence is connected with or required by some
legitimate employment, trade, profession or occupation;
(4) To a minor attending or returning, within one hour after the
conclusion thereof, from any scheduled activity by the Canton
Board of Education such as football or basketball games, or from
any other special function scheduled by any other church, school
or organization, provided that the church, school or organization
shall register the event in advance with the Chief of Police or
his designate, who shall require such information as is necessary
to implement the provisions of this section.
(Ord. 211-86. Passed 9-15-86.)
Our Neighborhoods watching you.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
I will not, NOT be anyone’s victim and neither should you!

A few weeks ago I had brought the Mrs. home from the airport. We pulled into our small driveway and I took notice of an individual staggering close to our vehicle. By the time I got the words “there’s a drunk guy” out of my mouth, he was on the passenger side banging on the window and the roof of the car.
The pupils of his eyes were the size of quarters and as he continued to spew his profanity toward us, we fumbled to call the police.
We try every effort to remove ourselves from the situation only to be blocked and victimized by another erratic behavior from this jerk.
In the end everyone was okay and the guy was taken away thanks to the great response of the CCP.
The Mrs. and I are still taken back by the event. With all the different places we have traveled around the world, this happened in our backyard for real. Not like it would be any better anywhere else. I know this to shall pass but I am a bit more jumping these days.
The point of this post is that I wanted to bring into the light a grass roots neighborhood watch program.
Of course I feel strongly about this program and will do everything in my power to aid in its success.
I do want to point out that this is not a ploy to maneuver my candidacy and yet saying that will heighten those pessimistic individuals. Regardless this is an important topic and the word needs to get out!
Dear Neighbor-
I am looking into starting a neighborhood crime watch for our block. In view of a few situations we’ve experienced on our street, I thought it would be a good idea.
The reason for the letter is that I wanted to know how many of you would be interested in attending a meeting before I would search out a meeting place. After I find a place to meet ( as close to our homes as possible), we will choose a date and time for a meeting. Mr. Knight will then provide me with fliers to mail out to all of your with that information and place an article in the Repository. The police and council member will notified of the meeting.
I feel that it is important that we watch out for our children and elderly neighbors. I think, and hope that you will too, that getting to know our neighbors will be positive thing as well.
Please contact me as to whether you would be willing to attend the meeting if it works out worth your schedule.
Email: keep24safe@aol.com
Thanks,
Nancy
Update: The first neighborhood watch meeting will be held, Wednesday August 12, 2009 at 6pm at the North Branch Library 189 25th St. Canton, Ohio, OH 44709 330.456.4356 http://www.starklibrary.org/
Thank you,
Shane
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Stark County could use your help!
It’s been awhile since my last post. I have things I want to talk about but the pot is still simmering.
I was asked to help out through the CAC with my VOTE for a potential grant for Stark County and wanted to pass along its information to you.
From the Desk of Malia Watkins of the Stark County Regional Planning Commission (SCRPC)
Good afternoon Stark County and Northeast Ohio !!
Stark County Regional Planning would like to announce that is has been chosen as a finalist for a grant given by a Northeast Ohio group called EfficientGovNow and the Fund for Our Economic Future . In total, nine projects were selected to become finalists from a pool of over 60 applicants. The residents of Northeast Ohio will decide who will get funding for these projects.
This is where Stark County needs your help!! The top three projects voted on by the public will receive funding. Please help out Stark County in this regional collaboration project. This project will map out all Storm Water Conveyance System Structures in urbanized areas in the county. Participants include Canton Township, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Nimishillen Township, Perry Township, Plain Township, Tuscarawas Township, City of Louisville, City of North Canton, City of Alliance and Stark County Commissioners. Please log on to:
http://www.efficientgovnow.org/Vote/ to cast your vote. Voting begins July 1st and ends July 31st.
You may also view a 60 second synopsis of the Storm Water Conveyance project at the following link:
http://blog.efficientgovnow.org/
Thanks for your time and your help,
Shane
I was asked to help out through the CAC with my VOTE for a potential grant for Stark County and wanted to pass along its information to you.
From the Desk of Malia Watkins of the Stark County Regional Planning Commission (SCRPC)
Good afternoon Stark County and Northeast Ohio !!
Stark County Regional Planning would like to announce that is has been chosen as a finalist for a grant given by a Northeast Ohio group called EfficientGovNow and the Fund for Our Economic Future . In total, nine projects were selected to become finalists from a pool of over 60 applicants. The residents of Northeast Ohio will decide who will get funding for these projects.
This is where Stark County needs your help!! The top three projects voted on by the public will receive funding. Please help out Stark County in this regional collaboration project. This project will map out all Storm Water Conveyance System Structures in urbanized areas in the county. Participants include Canton Township, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Nimishillen Township, Perry Township, Plain Township, Tuscarawas Township, City of Louisville, City of North Canton, City of Alliance and Stark County Commissioners. Please log on to:
http://www.efficientgovnow.org/Vote/ to cast your vote. Voting begins July 1st and ends July 31st.
You may also view a 60 second synopsis of the Storm Water Conveyance project at the following link:
http://blog.efficientgovnow.org/
Thanks for your time and your help,
Shane
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