How Presumptuous…
The story about NYRI in today’s OD was disturbing in its implications.
In response to some proposed federal legislation that would curb federal power,
“New York Regional Interconnect hit back in a news release, saying that blocking the proposed line could “put our state on a path toward slower economic growth, degraded and insecure infrastructure and loss of opportunity, jobs and local tax revenues.” “
“OUR STATE??” We don’t really know who NYRI is, though, from what little is known, they appear to be Canadian investors. Who is NYRI to speak for the state? With higher electric rates, NYRI’s proposal will be be another nail in upstate’s coffin. New York has already put itself on a path toward lost opportunity, but we don’t need outsiders to tell us how to run our household. When the situation hurts downstate enough (those who would benefit from NYRI), New Yorkers will find a solution that is fair to ALL New Yorkers. How dare a private company try to impose its will on a region.
How dare the federal government cooperate!
As most us older folks learned in school, the federal government is supposed to be limited, with most of the powers of government reserved to the states and the people. But the Congress and the courts have year-by-year expanded the role of the federal government into aspects of our lives the would make the Founding Fathers roll over in their graves.
NYRI’s statement reflects an attitude that unfortunately has been accepted by government: that private corporations know what is best for the people. Those who have the inside track with government officials can get what they want. The courts seem to have gone along with this (as in the Kelo decision).
When the general public no longer feels safe and secure in their homes, the government is not doing its job. We are fast approaching that point.
The Blogger Ranks Thin Again
After a brief awakening and some quick-fire, well-written posts, the Mohawk Valley View Blog is no more.
Blogging is time-consuming, and can interfere with other endeavors (including mundane things like paying bills, doing laundry and balancing the check book). We understand why Mrs. Mecomber has decided to close her blog.
Nonetheless, her entertaining posts and insights will be missed.
Good luck to you, Mrs. Mecomber, in whatever you do.
This is sad, not only because we will miss her posts, but because there is strength in numbers, and the numbers have decreased. Politicians tell us that people “are clamoring” for this or that — but often the impression is false, and is given to implement some private agenda. Blogs help expose what the public really feels . . . but for that to be accurate, the more bloggers the better.
Additionally, everyone has a unique perception of the events of the day. Some through specialized knowledge, their station in life, having a special interest and a willingness to do research, or just being in the right place at the right time, may have a perspective that others can benefit from. Blogging can be an outlet for that.
Hopefully more bloggers will rise from the ranks to take Mrs. Mecomber’s place. If you are blogging about Utica-Rome-Mohawk Valley news and views, Fault Lines will provide a link to help you get started with some traffic.
Join the regional conversation.
