Odds and Ends

 When my son was a toddler he went through a goggle phase.  Most photos of this era include goggles - even a nice one with his Abuela where they are both sporting a pair.  First it was swim goggles, but then as he got older he liked to mix it up with science goggles, construction goggles, and exotic sunglasses of all shapes and colors.  He also collects costumes and accessories, primarily superheros, but also knights, firefighters, military, you name it.  His entire bedroom is organized around legos and many dozens of costumes with various accessory bins of Hulk, Ironman, Captain America, and Batman gear (to name a few) to complete his looks.  As you can imagine this is very special to my son and I.

Now imagine that we form a board of like minded goggle wearing, costume aficionados, apply for nonprofit status, and approach the city for a neglected parcel to house our educational museum that will display our collections.  If we cannot have that parcel for $1.00, then the city can host our endeavor by providing for all utilities and maintenance on a building. 

I don't mean to be cynical, but I do have concerns that sometimes we miss the obvious.  Of course I like and appreciate the Volunteer Firefighters Museum and absolutely adore the Kingston Firefighters Union for all that they do to support and enhance our community, especially for our kids.   But No.  At his point we have multiple museums and cultural centers in formation, a boat building center, trolleys, etc., etc. etc.   Most of these projects are starving for cash and a few, like TransArt, has come to a standstill.  Simultaneous to the expansion in cultural and educational centers, we have watched the consolidation of our school system and hospitals in recognition that we must be more efficient; the workforce in Parks and DPW has been gutted; money is not there.  Our infrastructure and roads need serious attention.  Our schools need more skilled  Teachers and Teaching Assistants in the classroom to ensure that every child is getting the attention they need to thrive and develop.  What  my gut is telling me about the latest discussions to transfer ownership of the Volunteer Fireman's Museum is that it is not in our interest to proceed.  I just want us to do the really important stuff well.  I could be wrong...    

I'll have a full preview report of the City Democratic Convention by Tuesday.