Maurice D Hinchey at the Old Dutch Church, Kingston NY

One of the best things about moving back to my roots in Ulster County NY is the people; I’ve known many for most of my life. Last night I went to the 85^th Annual George Washington Dinner at the Old Dutch Church in Kingston. The Church is on the National Register of Historic Places and should be listed as a designated historic landmark soon. It is fitting as George while not sleeping there did stop by and the church is a magnificent structure with numerous historical ties. I was reminded of my own ties when the city historian Edwin Ford spoke and mentioned that my grandparents were the first to bring him there many years ago, Edwin is in his nineties and has a memory like a steel trap.

Our Congressman Maurice Hinchey was the key note speaker and a very popular guy around these parts. He is now serving his eighth term and serves on the House Appropriations Committee amongst other powerful positions. Perhaps to me his biggest appeal is being approachable. I asked Maurice if possibly we could run some of his photos and take from a government trip to Cuba on GoNOMAD. He graciously agreed and that was so pleasing.

Young and old, Republican and Democrat, at this dinner all are accepted and local fellowship shines. If all politics are local then I am glad to deal with my local politicians here in Ulster. If you ever get a chance to stop by Kingston take some time to wander the uptown streets with its old stone buildings and the Church, it will take you back to the days when politics were especially crucial, during the Revolution and even further back. Thanks Congressman for your accessibility.