Blog No. 263: Zohran Mamdani, Power to the People, American Bald Eagle

January 3, 2026

Zohran Mamdani
Mayor of NYC

Zohran Mamdani with his wife, artist Rama Duwaji

I'd like to invite you to listen to Zohran Mamdani's inauguration speech as he was sworn in as Mayor of New York if you haven't already. Even though I am spending more and more time up here in Maine, this week I am definitely a proud New Yorker! I've had a tough few days, but this speech put a big smile on my face...And in the words of Zohran Mamdani, "we will do something that New Yorkers do better than anyone else. We will set an example for the world."

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams also delivered a beautiful, emotional speech, which is also well worth a listen. And I would like to salute my cousin's son, David Kahn, who works for Jumaane Williams in the capacity of Community Organizer for Environmental Justice and Infrastructure. As a young person, David has a very strong moral code and has worked hard and stayed engaged over the years to promote liberty and justice for all...So proud of him!

People Have The Power

This is not the first time I've played this song but I couldn't think of a better way to start the new year than with a dose of Patti Smith singing Choir Choir Choir. Sing along at the top of your lungs to feel invigorated and empowered to continue to resist and continue the fight in 2026. Nos ganaremos..

American Bald
Eagle

Every time I see an eagle I take it as a sign of good luck and it always makes me feel privileged to be able to observe these amazing birds soaring high up in the sky. I see them more and more--often on a daily basis--and they are definitely making a comeback after near extinction. Their increasing numbers are a direct result of the power of conservation and the results of the Endangered Species Act passed in 1973.

Here are two stories from the instagram account Haunted Conspiracy, a site full of touching stories about animal rescues.

An eagle asks for help

A friendship between a horse and an Eagle

An interesting fact: The "bald" in bald eagle does not mean hairless in this case. The name derives from the Middle English word "balde" which means shining white, referring to its bright white head and tail.

Paintings of the Week

Pam Smilow Tree Tops, Detail of my Tree of Life Series pieces, each tree measurimg 60” x 22” mixed media on paper

Charity of the Week:
ACLU

Book of the Week

About The Author

New York City based contemporary artist, Pam Smilow, began writing the creative lifestyle blog “things we love” in an effort to foster a sense of community during times of isolation and reflection. To read more about her and her art, visit her website and check out the essay written by Frank Matheis entitled The Sophisticated Innocence of Pam Smilow.

Source: old-age-young-at-heart-chorus-mark-nepo-no...