Re:[Mpls] Re: Nicollet Island Part Three
There's an element of location envy that's been in the Nicollet Island residential mix for longer than even De LaSalle can assert. Col. King had his mansion where De LaSalle now stands and cared for his prize livestock where we now enjoy the Farmstead Rose Garden, perhaps arriving via King's Highway aka Dupont Ave. S. William Eastman had his mansion where the De LaSalle football field is now located. He also built Eastman Flats (torn down for DeLaSalle's building and parking lot that faces Hennepin Ave.) and the Grove St. Flats that are still extant, renovated, on the National Register of Historic Places, and home to folks who paid handsomely at market rates for their respective parts of this condominium. People of more modest means settled on the North Tip of the Island, beginning with a farmhouse of sorts built in 1863, as I recall. Still there, renovated, part of the residential cooperative ensemble. There are pictures from the Civil War years that show Nicollet St. as a raw cut in the earth and the South Tip with a field under cultivation where the Park Board has put in a surface parking lot for the adjacent private enterprises. During the heyday of milling expansion, Franklin Steele attempted a flour mill whose millrace tunnel construction led to a collapse of the limestone riverbed and a thirty-year effort by the Army Corp of Engineers to stabilize St. Anthony Falls. Also during this time after the Civil War, a limestone suspension bridge was built from the Island to Bridge Square on the downtown side of the river, the lumbering years brought Boom Island its name, and the gandy dancers who built our railroads recreated themselves in a red light district that kept the original farmhouse company on the back of the Island. The other houses on the North Tip, still there, renovated, etc., now recognized as a unique ensemble of 19th-century residential architectural styles, were built in the 1880s or thereabouts and housed middle- and working-class families whose children attended school where Carlson Store Equipment Manufacturing Company operated and where there is now some of that precious open space on the North Tip that helps gives the Island its credence as a regional park. I used to find clay marbles in the ground when I had one of the community garden plots in the vicinity during the 1970s. The Island is something of an antiquarian's paradise because the North Tip community survived World War I and the flu pandemic, the Great Depression - bootlegging days on the island, I'm told - a fresh influx of families as everywhere in the 1950s, and some folks on the fringe of society in the 1960s. A fascinating place to this day and still there to be experienced by the general public because of herculean efforts in the 1970s and 1980s to keep this gentle ambiance a part of Minneapolis' and St. Anthony's historical legacy. Fred Markus, Ward 6, Phillips West REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Nicollet Island Part Four
Robert Lilligren wrote to Mpls Issues a while back describing how he likes to stop by Nicollet Island as a place of spiritual substance. Well he might, given his Native American heritage. I don't think it's accidental, parenthetically, that religious folks of a contemplative bent built an edifice that looks out over Lake Calhoun or that first the Unitarians and later the French immigrants established Our Lady of Lourdes church to look out over St. Anthony Falls. We are a busy people, we Americans, and we have few enough opportunities to grasp the majesty of the Mississippi as it passes through our settlements on a natural scale far surpassing mere human activity. From Boom Island to the James J. Hill limestone railroad bridge, with Nicollet Island squarely in media res (in the middle of the place, literally), we have achieved remarkable recognition of the centrality of this physical geography. Not to be taken lightly because here lies the heartbeat of our city. Minneapolis would not have come to be were it not for this riverine environment. I submit that Minneapolis has turned its collective attention to the Mississippi in many major ways over the past forty years. I am intensely pleased that we have been able to keep the essential qualities of the riverfront available to all and this is a great statement of egalitarian reality. The early movers and shakers accepted the value of heterogeneous settlement on the Island while sketching out far grander visions for parks and lakes and a greenbelt surrounding the city. No one paid much heed as multi-story walkups proliferated along the downtown side of the river, spilling over onto Hennepin Ave. and the East Bank; and here today, gone tomorrow, the Gateway Project in the 1960s and subsequent radical transformations of the Island settlement area swept away buildings and people alike, leaving something of a tabula rasa, a blank slate, on which we have been crafting our awareness of our past and our preparations for our future. No small task and something compelling enough to warrant slow, reflective, thoughtful process. Fred Markus, Ward 6, Phillips West REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Stewart/Mpls
Mayoral Candidate Don Johnson gives creative proposals on his website: http://donjohnsonmayor.org/ The Observer reports on Johnson's campaign: The Don Johnson mayoral campaign continues to churn out material. The latest salvo promises that a Johnson administration would reduce taxes, pollution and greenhouse gasses and build renewable energy with state and federal funds that would not only produce thousands of kilowatts of free, clean electricity and not only produce thousands of jobs, but most importantly stop the flow of billions of dollars out of our city and state by reducing our overuse of fossil and nuclear fuels. ( http://www.mplsobserver.com/ballotbox.php ) I think Johnson is right on target. If we look at Minneapolis as an energyscape, we see that we ignore ways of producing clean energy here while growing more dependant on environmentally dirty and economically oppressive energy sources. If we do the right thing in terms of environment, we will also create jobs and more business in a future-oriented industry. Energy independence begins at home. Don Johnson -- check out his website -- offers some real ideas about how we might face the future with creativity to create a vital city in a rapidly changing world. -- pedaling for peace and ecojustice from Lynnhurst -- Gary Hoover REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] (no subject)
I still ask; which was never answered, all that was explained is a spin the bottle of what endorsement a republican should get, in the 9th ward?? what has Dave Shegstad done for anyone in 9th ward?? And I can count, theres not hundreds of signs Gina Palandri 9th ward -- Using Opera's revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/mail/ REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] DeLaSalle Alumni
Wizard: I'm going to stop posting on this...after I respond to your comment :) Neither side is going to change their position, and I've just become too frustrated with those opposed to building the field changing their tactics and arguments daily from: (1) its bad for the island and the park should remain an open space (a good argument, one I disagree with but hey, I hear ya) to (2) any park commissioner that votes for this plan is voting for patronage, special interests and cronyism...i.e. they are corrupt (personal attacks with no support or basis save that a few of the Commissioners have or have had personal ties to DLS); to (3) separation of church and state (it was argued a lng time ago and now resurfaces with no explanation as to how this would constitute an endorsement or establishment.) As far as the separation of church and state, its absolutely ridiculous. No one could argue that the reciprocal use agreement constitutes an endorsement of the Catholic faith by the Park Board...its preposterous. The mere fact that a religious institution is involved in a land-use agreement with a local government entity in NO way brings it in violation of the Constitution! A few weeks back someone said that if the Park Board was really looking out for Nicollet Island they'd have found a way to get rid of DLS...no DLS supporter retorted with an argument that such a move would prohibit the free practice of religion. The separation of church and state is thrown around too loosely with little or no idea of what it actually means and its careless to do so in this case as well...it's easy to throw out as it will likely frighten and confuse a few folks but you know and I know that its irrelevant to this discussion. As I noted, I think there are many many reasons to be for this plan to build a playing field. But I understand as well that there are ideologies and reasons which would take a different view. I've heard many rational arguments for not building the field, I simply disagree... I can understand wanting to keep an open space in the City...I get that. I personally went to school at DLS and think of that open space as an unattractive railroad right-of-way, nothing special...but I dont quarrel with those who see value in it. However, patronage, special interests and cronyism and violations of church/state, the argument can do without. It has devolved from the merits...(I think I remember Rep. Kahn discussing census statistics and whether the parkboard could actually use a stadium)...now its personal attacks against Commissioners and inferring or outright claiming that anyone who votes for the plan is corrupt. Kind regards, Anthony Thompson Standish DLS '96 -- Political sense of conflict of mission as it relates to the MPRB's interest: Though we be deep in the heart of Denial, MN, the park board still proposes to give away a chunk of land to a religious institution in a country that makes a lotta noise about the righteousness of the separation of church and state. I doubt there could be a clearer instance of offending that principle around at the moment. Ecological conflict of interest: From the position of the MPRB, the ecobest they can do is to say a pox on both the islanders and the school. This is park land, this is a very delicate piece of land, this is a part of MN history for eons (probably since the glaciers), and both the residents and the school can keep their grubby mitts off it! It already has more pressure than it should have to endure. Head races and tail races that no longer operate, miles of defunct tunnel, a lock and dam, a hydropower plant, a restaurant, a school, a hulking replacement bridge, a small bridge, a railroad bridge, and a foot bridge, and whatever else. It's a little island with a tough history and an already tough job to do. REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Re: Nicollet Island Part Three
Fredric Markus wrote: During the heyday of milling expansion, Franklin Steele attempted a flour mill whose millrace tunnel construction led to a collapse of the limestone riverbed and a thirty-year effort by the Army Corp of Engineers to stabilize St. Anthony Falls. Now, Fred, yer brain cells aren't firing today. It was Eastman's tunnel that collapsed the falls. WMarks Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Nicollet Island priveleged residents
J. Free wrote: I've heard this point raised by a few different posters here, and I wonder what I'm missing. I have several friends who reside on the Island, and it never occurred to me that they were in any way, any more privileged, than anyone else who exercises a modicum of social responsibility. Many of them are more than a wee bit concerned about how this issue is playing itself out, and how the proposed use of land there will interfere with the safe, eco-friendly community they have worked hard to try and maintain. Can someone please explain to me why this reference keeps coming up in this discussion? Barry says: Are we folks who live on Nicollet Island lucky to live there? You bet - it's wonderful! But John Derus and some others who are pushing for the DeLaSalle athletic complex, instead of engaging in a rational discussion about what is really a Park and land use issue, have bashed the neighbors instead, calling us a gated community, implying that we don't pay taxes (we do - a lot, on land we don't own) and that we got something for nothing. I signed my land lease in 1991 - paying $500 to lease the land for about 92 years. Sounds like a sweet deal, doesn't it? At the time, the Park Board estimated the value of the lot at $20,000 - probably about right. In 1991, the East Bank didn't have all the swish condos it has now, it had a couple of residential towers, depressed retail and mostly abandoned, polluted industrial properties. The Island itself was a recovering slum, having recently been completely condemned by the Park Board, the houses were either falling down or in the process of being restored - so $20,000 was about right. In order to qualify for the deal, I had to restore my house at my own expense - up to Historical Preservation Commission standards. It cost about $200,000 - my contractor estimated that it would have cost $30 - 40K less to build the house new rather than restore it (again - sounds cheap in today's housing market, but at the time it was a big stretch). I have a copy of a letter written in the 70's from Charlie Nelson of the Historical Society, saying my house was too battered to be saved, couldn't be economically restored and should be torn down. Fortunately, it wasn't. I was the second person selected to restore my house, the first backed out after getiing estimates from contractors. Phyllis Kahn was also the second person selected to restore her house - the first backed out for the same reason. In the second lottery for her house, Phyllis and Don Kahn were the ONLY applicant. Friends told us all we were nuts. So, what seems in hindsight like a great deal was a very iffy deal at the time - we had to pay more than market value to fix up houses that nobody wanted on land we didn't own. Sure the houses are worth a lot more now, but he lease provides that if we sell, we have to split the profits with the Park Board and the MCDA. The 20 structures on the Island north of the tracks are actually 44 housing units - many are dulexes or 4-plexes. 22 of the units are affordable cooperative housing units. There are also 2 condo building south of the tracks (Grove Street Flats and West Island). We are just a regular neighborhood in what is now a very neat place. So while we are indeed lucky to live there, bashing Island residents as freeloaders is the shabby tactic of those who can't justify a bad proposal on its questionable merits and are trying to divert attention from a serious discussion of the real issues. Barry Clegg Nicollet Island __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Shegstad sought endorsement of all 4 major parties?
Dan McGrath stated: Dave Shegstad is, as mentioned, endorsed by the 5th CD Republicans. He sought the endorsement of all 4 major political parties in Minneapolis, which includes the Republicans, the DFL, the Greens, and the Independence Party. This is a curious statement. Does Mr. Shegstad (whom I have never met) have no core values that would align him with one party or the other? Why would he seek endorsement of parties other than the one he aligns with? Or, if he is an independent, why is he seeking the endorsement from ANY party? I can think of no one else who, when denied endorsement from the Dems would go to the Repubs for endorsement, or vice versa. I know when Natalie Johnson Lee did not get endorsed by the Dems in 2001, she went to the Green Party for endorsement, but they at least have similar stands on many topics. But going to all four parties? How can you shop yourself to those who adhere to the Republican platform, then go off and shop yourself to the Dems? That's not being honest with someone - yourself, to start with. Let's see: Today when I talk to the Rs, I'm prolife; but tomorrow when I talk to the Ds, I'm prochoice? Today I'm for the war, but tomorrow I'm against it? Today I'm for tax cuts, but tomorrow I'm a tax and spender? Yikes. How is any voter supposed to know what this man believes in and how he might act if elected? Linda Higgins Old Highland, fifth ward REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] DeLaSalle Alumni
Pat Bohn wrote: As a Northsider, I might add that the school board members didn't vote to close schools that any of their children attend or the schools in the neighborhoods where most of them live. [...] what school board members shouldn't do is somehow make those schools and neighborhoods more important or deserving then any others. Why not? Why on earth would someone with the power to keep his or her child's school open not vote that way? Elected officials have their own self-interests and will operate on them. It is unrealistic to expect otherwise. Our challenge is to show them how their self-interest aligns with ours so that we can work together. This doesn't happen on every issue but it happens more often than we think. If I don't want my child's school closed, I must convince the school board that it is in their self-interest to keep it open. Appealing to goodwill or some abstract sense of right is not effective. Of course, another option is to run for office as well and vote in our own self-interest. Self-interest isn't selfish. A shrewd politician and a committed citizen will always look for ways that his or her self-interest aligns with others on either side of the aisle. I believe one of the fundamental reasons that our political system has broken down into partisan deadlock is that we don't really understand this anymore. David Greene The Wedge REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Shegstad Endorsements
While I did not participate in the Green Party endorsement process (hopefully someone who did will back me up), I disagree with the characterization that Dave Bicking beat Shegstad to the application as though the GP will endorse anyone. In fact, I can't imagine the 5CDGP endorsing someone who's main political issue seems to be a smoking ban repeal (that would directly contravene a platform plank) and who had sought and received the endorsement of the R party. aaron klemz cooper +++ Aaron Klemz, Minneapolis, Minnesota [EMAIL PROTECTED] +++ Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] DeLaSalle Alumni
On Tue, August 9, 2005 9:58 am, [EMAIL PROTECTED] said: Wizard: I'm going to stop posting on this...after I respond to your comment :) Neither side is going to change their position, and I've just become too frustrated with those opposed to building the field changing their tactics and arguments daily from: (1) its bad for the island and the park should remain an open space (a good argument, one I disagree with but hey, I hear ya) to (2) any park commissioner that votes for this plan is voting for patronage, special interests and cronyism...i.e. they are corrupt (personal attacks with no support or basis save that a few of the Commissioners have or have had personal ties to DLS); to (3) separation of church and state (it was argued a lng time ago and now resurfaces with no explanation as to how this would constitute an endorsement or establishment.) People can reach a common conclusion for multiple reasons. 2 + 2 = 4, 3 + 1 = 4, and so on. Now, I haven't followed the debate very closely, but the more I read about this, the more I find myself agreeing with positions 1 and 2, above. First, I just can't wrap my head around why the Park Board would be interested in helping a high school to build an astroturfed stadium on such a unique area of Minneapolis. (I am more than willing to be educated on the proposal. It doesn't make sense to me, but I have an open mind.) I can understand the need for recreational facilities in general, but I don't see any need for a stadium of that sort at that location -- unless it's to benefit one particular group of constituents. That brings up the second issue, which is that the Park Board appears to have a majority that favors backroom deals and application of park resources to favored friends and constituents. I think you saw that in the peculiar selection of Jon Gurban. I think you saw that in the outrageous attempt to limit free speech on park property. I even think you see that in Marie Hauser's campaign lit, which (if I remember correctly) boasts of planting more trees in the Eighth Ward than any other ward. So the fact that the proponents of this plan have ties to DLS and are vague on the details is bound to raise much more skepticism than if another government body had taken up the issue. I think that the combination of (1) a peculiar proposal; and (2) a park board majority with severe credibility problems adds up to a lot of the suspicion of this deal. Mike Skoglund // Bancroft // Non-DLS Grad. REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
Corporations may have the right of free speech, but they do not get to vote and should not have undue influence on the rights of those who do. For those interested, Minnesota Statues further clarifies the signage issue below: 211B.15 Subd. 11. * Messages on premises.* It is not a violation of this section for a corporation selling products or services to the public to post on its public premises messages that promote participation in precinct caucuses, voter registration, or elections if the messages are not controlled by or operated for the advantage of a candidate, political party, or committee. When you read this in conjunction with 211B.15 Subdivisions, 1 and 2 it essentially means that corporations can display general get out the vote signs such as Please Vote, but cannot support any particular issue, party or candidate. This is a widespread problem not just in Minneapolis, but throughout our state. Our chief elections official, Secretary of State Kiffmeyer, has done nothing to stop this abuse of power. Russ Peterson St. Michael REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
I have stated once before and will state again, not all commercial sites in a neighborhood are owned or operated by corporations. I will ask again Does this law apply to sole proprietorships? Could someone on this list with a law degree determine what businesses fall within Subdivision 211B.15? If it doesn't then it is perfectly legal for a bar, corner store, liquor store, non-chain restaurant or other business to hang a political sign for their candidate of choice. This isn't the first election where this issue has been raised. Barb Lickness Whittier Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. -- Margaret Mead REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
Barbara Lickness wrote: I have stated once before and will state again, not all commercial sites in a neighborhood are owned or operated by corporations. ] Who cares? It would cost a blue fortune to police the stupid signs, the city has one guy assigned to signs, signs don't vote, and until they become more amusing by gigabytes, I think the darn things are nigh on to worthless. Plus, there's never any place to put them when the silly season is over. They languish, they catch dust, the cat knocks them down, and finally one pokes you in a soft spot and out they go to the landfill or the burner. Now for something completely different. This is a plea to listers who garden. Where is the best place to buy good, not too spendy lesser bulbs--snowdrops, muscari, winter aconite, hooped petticoats, some narcissi--all the tiny, early bulbs? I'm looking for a city-yard-sized bulk buy on these little puppies. BONUS (Yayzeau, I've been googling and it's screwed up the little gray cells): google, she says, recommending grey cell damage to others, www.bloomingbulb.com and check out the Lenten Rose. Quelle treat for the eyes. Outrageously expensive, but that's what dreams are made of, ain't they? Please contact me off list about the bulbs. Thanks, WizardMarks, Central Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
Barbara is absolutely correct. Most retail businesses are sole proprietorships or partnerships, neither of which fall under the corporate rubric for purposes of campaign finance regulation. Retailers who allow campaign signs in their windows are more likely single owners who have an ax to grind and would otherwise be considered rather dumb for taking sides in a political contest. Talk about turning off 30% to 50% of your customer base. In St. Paul, back in the ancient days - 1993 - Landmark Brewery posted campaigns signs for Dave Thune all around its very corporate digs along West 7th Street. For all the complaining we did about this apparently illegal contribution, not a dent was made. After all, Thune was an incumbent ward heeler. The signs stayed, the powers silent. Then again, most corporations don't care if their caught red-handed. Andy Driscoll Saint Paul -- The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men. Plato Everything secret degenerates, even the administration of justice; nothing is safe that does not show how it can bear discussion and publicity. Lord Acton From: Barbara Lickness [EMAIL PROTECTED] I have stated once before and will state again, not all commercial sites in a neighborhood are owned or operated by corporations. I will ask again Does this law apply to sole proprietorships? Could someone on this list with a law degree determine what businesses fall within Subdivision 211B.15? If it doesn't then it is perfectly legal for a bar, corner store, liquor store, non-chain restaurant or other business to hang a political sign for their candidate of choice. This isn't the first election where this issue has been raised. Barb Lickness Whittier REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
Ouch. I meant, don't care if THEY'RE caught red-handed. This from an English user. Andy Driscoll Saint Paul From: Andy Driscoll [EMAIL PROTECTED] Barbara is absolutely correct. Most retail businesses are sole proprietorships or partnerships, neither of which fall under the corporate rubric for purposes of campaign finance regulation. Retailers who allow campaign signs in their windows are more likely single owners who have an ax to grind and would otherwise be considered rather dumb for taking sides in a political contest. Talk about turning off 30% to 50% of your customer base. In St. Paul, back in the ancient days - 1993 - Landmark Brewery posted campaigns signs for Dave Thune all around its very corporate digs along West 7th Street. For all the complaining we did about this apparently illegal contribution, not a dent was made. After all, Thune was an incumbent ward heeler. The signs stayed, the powers silent. Then again, most corporations don't care if their caught red-handed. Andy Driscoll Saint Paul REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
I have a feeling that even if people challenged yard signs in businesses that they could go to court and win. It seems to me that it would end up being a violation of free speech... even if it is a corporation. I'm no expert... I just have a feeling that's how it would end up. Matthew Philip The Wedge REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] A Savage Strib article
I was very disappointed in the article below. There was no mention of the boos that Harry garnered from the 10th Ward Caucus. Nor was there mention of how few votes he received at either event. This article clearly wasn't written by someone that was neither at the City Convention nor at the Ward Caucus. I respect that the Mr. Savages are putting in a lot of hard work, but this article made them seem like viable candidates and... well... that's quite unlikely. It seems an article focused on important issues in these races, or at least viable candidates, could have better served the public. From Today's Star Tribune: A noble twist to the Savage political campaign Rochelle Olson Star Tribune Published August 9, 2005 The Savages want to be turned loose in Minneapolis City Hall. Harry Savage, whose chants of Run with the Harry Savage got the DFL city convention rocking last spring, is running for the Ward 10 City Council seat. His father, Gerald Savage, is running for mayor -- at his son's behest. He talked me into it. He really put the pressure on, Gerald Savage said. Harry Savage said, My dad's always been boisterous about things going on. The Savages are both talkers with a lot of energy and strong opinions. Father and son say Hennepin County's proposal for a Twins stadium spurred their political activism. Both oppose the plan to finance a ballpark largely through a countywide sales-tax increase and have testified publicly against it. Gerald Savage calls stadium subsidies immoral. We're sure shaking up the neighborhood, said Harry Savage, who recently graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in classics. Harry Savage works part time selling clothes at Marshall Field's and lives with his dad and mom, Gail, in the family's attentively restored house in the heart of Uptown. Harry Savage, who ultimately would like to work in public relations, said he was fond of the image of a father-son team seeking public office. But the two aren't political clones. Harry is a 23-year-old DFLer. Gerald is a 57-year-old independent. Harry wants to allow smoking in bars because he said small business owners are hurting under the new ban. Gerald disagrees. I don't like going into a restaurant where they've got smoke, he said. The son is concerned about buildings that are too tall. His father is all for tall buildings, saying developers need them to profit as they renovate aging housing stock. But Gerald Savage's real passion appears to be trains and transit. Instead of spending on ballparks, he would invest money in a transit system that included subways. He points to New York's and Chicago's systems as models of city building. A train system would spur private investment and revitalize the city, Gerald Savage said. At the DFL city convention in May, Harry Savage unsuccessfully sought the party's endorsement for mayor. He railed single-mindedly against stadium subsidies even when he was asked to respond to questions on other topics. Addressing the crowd, he energized DFLers packed into the Augsburg College gym with his chant, Run with the Harry Savage. Beyond ballpark Besides opposing the ballpark, Harry Savage's other positions include lowering taxes; cracking down on crime Giuliani-style, referring to the former New York mayor, and banning the conversion of rental properties to condominiums. Harry Savage is among a crowded field of candidates hoping to succeed Council Member Dan Niziolek, who isn't seeking reelection. Savage said he is starting his third round of door-knocking the entire ward, a critical campaign tactic. Tight race The 10th Ward contest has a number of candidates capable of emerging from the Sept. 13 primary. The top two vote recipients will advance to a November runoff. The other contenders are Allan Bernard, Tom Moore, Gay Noble, Scott Persons and Ralph Remington. The Savage son thinks he has a legitimate chance to advance, but is also philosophical. Referencing former President Abraham Lincoln's political losses, he said: You have to lose a few before you win. The senior Savage is also realistic about his own chances. I'm not actively campaigning. I'm campaigning for him, Gerald Savage said, gesturing toward his son while sitting at the family's dining room table. I probably have no chance at all. He's got a shot. The Savages say with some campaign bravado that despite their lack of experience, they offer an alternative. Read what the other guys say. It's fluff, Gerald Savage said. Harry Savage added, They haven't said anything. Rochelle Olson is at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Matthew Philip 10-1 The Wedge REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious
[Mpls] SHEGSTAD...glbt issues?
And lets call Shegstad and see how he feels on GLBT issueswould he feel one way one day...one way another day...do I hear the word flip flop?? G.Palandri 9th Ward and very happy with my current councilperson. -- Using Opera's revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/mail/ REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Re: Shegstad sought endorsement of all 4 major parties?
Dan McGrath stated: Dave Shegstad is, as mentioned, endorsed by the 5th CD Republicans. He sought the endorsement of all 4 major political parties in Minneapolis, which includes the Republicans, the DFL, the Greens, and the Independence Party. I have to wonder just what he did to 'seek endorsement' of the DFL party. The Minutes of the DFL 9th Ward Convention (online at http://www.scc.net/~t-bonham/MPLS2005W09.HTM) don't mention him as running for the endorsement. In fact, they specifically say that the chair called for nominations 4 times before closing nominations, with only Gary Schiff nominated. Seems like if you are seeking the DFL endorsement, the minimum you would do is place your name in nomination for the endorsement. At the very least, that gets you a half-hour to make a speech answer questions to a group of highly active political activists. And Mr. Shegstad did not have any literature distributed at the 9th Ward Precinct Caucuses, like a whole lot of candidates for various offices did. Nor did he get the list of delegates to the Convention to mail anything to them asking for their endorsement. So I can't see that he did anything at all to 'seek the endorsement' of the DFL party. Can he explain to us how he 'sought endorsement'? Tim Bonham, Ward 12, Standish-Ericsson REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] viable Savage, Ward 10
but this article made them seem like viable candidates. How is any Ward Ten candidate more viable than Mr. Savage? Harry has been doing a lot of door knocking and leaflet-dropping in the Ward. His leaflets/flyers come out against the ballpark and against the condo-ization of the Ward, two sentiments that find favor with many and probably the majority of the Ward (but not myself). No other candidate, in my opinion, is a relatively strong candidate. Most of us lack City Hall experience, and those with experience lack, in my opinion, charisma and vision (or at least the ability to communicate it). You can find past primary stats on the city's web page. It looks to me that, with six candidates running to win this seat, it will take about a thousand votes to get through the primary - maybe even less (and that's if a whopping 25% of already-registered voters bother to vote.). I've talked to a couple of dozen Savage supporters myself, just in my precinct and one precinct adjacent to it - they like his flyers, and they think his Giuliani-style crackdown idea is a real riot, to put it one way. Sure, Harry was booed at the DFL convention, but how many voters does an all-day, city convention truly influence, especially when there is no endorsement? Thank God for the community papers (and radio), who have been covering us all pretty even-handedly. And the Strib is profiling EVERY municipal candidate, no matter how viable, both online (appearing soon) and in their pre-election supplement. That's a plus for democracy, I believe. We (well, many of us) complain when candidates are shut-out of coverage and debates per viability at the national/federal level (believe me, having backed Nader back in '96, and Kucinich in '04), so why not err on the side of inclusion at the municipal level? - Tom Moore Wedge Neighborhood Ward Ten Candidate, City Council www.candidatemoore.blogspot.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] 9th Ward Signs
Crazy! The law says that corporations or LLCs cant put up a sign to advocate on behalf of a candidate. My read of the statute leads me to believe that sole proprietors can still put up signs. But the law also OKs taking city money, putting out a Ward 9 (or City) Newsletter with your picture on the cover? I think I read somewhere that Rybak was paying some percent of the printing costs...did Schiff ever do the same? Anthony Thompson Standish (Soon to be former Ward 9 resident) REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Re: Mpls Digest, Vol 20, Issue 19 Re: Nicollet Island
Let me add a few comments on the separation of Church and State issue. This is from a conversation that Patrick Scully (An Island resident and the force behind Patrick's Cabaret) had with Brother Michael Collins (principal of DeLaSalle). Remember this is supposed to be a public space, under the ultimate control of a public entity as MN state bonding $$ were used to purchase the park land involved. Patrick asked what would happen if a group wanted to use this space for an Abortion Rights or a GLBT event. Brother Michael said that permission would have to come from the Archdiocese. It is true he was just answering off the top of his head, but it doesn't sound like appropriate park board policy to me. Phyllis Kahn State Rep 59B REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Neighbors Working With Neighbors
Join us to help create a stronger community in working together to keep our neighborhoods safe, and peaceful. We also would like you to thank Pastor Curtis, and members of his congregation, who put themselves out there all summer on Saturdays with barbeques. It is a safer corner when they are out. Water will be provided, but there will be charge for food. Date: August 13th Time: 4:00-5:00 p.m. Place: Corner of 38th and Chicago Ave S (Parking Lot) Zak Metoyer, Dennis Tifft, Terry Yzaguirre 8th Ward Candidates Terry Yzaguirre 8th Ward Candidate Powderhorn Park REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
RE: [Mpls] A Savage Strib article
Re: The post below: I can assure you that Rochelle Olson was at the city convention, because I was with her (and other newsies) until the bitter, protracted end. I can't speak to the ward convention, but the implication here is that Rochelle doesn't understand city politics or attend city events. This is pure hogwash. As a nominal competitor, I'm constantly struggling to attend as many events as Rochelle, and usually impressed by her determined reporting. In fact, it's doubtful you could find another reporter in town more attentive to city politics (though some may be on equal footing). Finally, my perspective here is strictly professional, not at all personal. My take is that it's a human interest piece that uses city politics as an entry point. That said, it's clear where both candidates stand on several issues. It may not be the story you want to see about Ward 10, but rest assured, it was written by an informed reporter. G.R. Anderson Jr. News Editor City Pages 612.372.3720 [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] on behalf of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tue 8/9/2005 1:42 PM To: mpls@mnforum.org Subject: [Mpls] A Savage Strib article I was very disappointed in the article below. There was no mention of the boos that Harry garnered from the 10th Ward Caucus. Nor was there mention of how few votes he received at either event. This article clearly wasn't written by someone that was neither at the City Convention nor at the Ward Caucus. I respect that the Mr. Savages are putting in a lot of hard work, but this article made them seem like viable candidates and... well... that's quite unlikely. It seems an article focused on important issues in these races, or at least viable candidates, could have better served the public. Matthew Philip 10-1 The Wedge REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] A Savage Strib article
Anybody who wishes to see how viable Harry Savage's campaign is, or any other 10th Ward candidate's campaign, should go to the Uptown area DFL meetup at Gigi's Cafe (36th Street and Bryant) at 7 P.M. Many, if not most, of the 10th Ward candidates will probably be there to speak with residents. Harry Savage is a regular attendee. -- Nathan Hunstad Minneapolis, MN PGP DH/DSS public key -- http://www.angelfire.com/mn/freakpower/nhpubkey.txt Do you Gonzo?! http://www.angelfire.com/mn/freakpower REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Pawlenty Scolds Minneapolis on DWI Memo
Governor Pawlenty is none to happy with a city memo that suggests lenient treatment of DWI offenders. The story with the Pawlenty sound bite was on WCCO-TV this evening. Here is a quote from a story on the CCO web site at wcco.com. In an internal memo obtained by WCCO-TV, a top city attorney said drivers who blow a .10 or less should be given a careless driving or other appropriate misdemeanor. That recommendation applies if it is the offender's first DWI, there was not an accident and the driver cooperates with sobriety tests, the memo said. Bill Dooley Kenny REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Pawlenty Scolds Minneapolis on DWI Memo - What a hypocrit
I am outraged that Governor Pawlenty has never seen fit to using the media to complain far and loud about how the Hennepin County Judges routinely abdicate from the minimum required sentencing guidelines established by the State of Minnesota when they are dealing with violent criminals and inner-city drug dealers. He has stood by silently while this travesty has been allowed to continue for years. So has the legislature, including the entire Minneapolis delegation. Last night I attended the Community Issues meeting of my neighborhood. A fabulous and hard working police Lt. attended the meeting to give a presentation on crime in Whittier. I am not giving her name because I don't want any flack to fall back on her for her honest assessment. She gave a long dissertation of what the Community Response Team is responsible for in any given day. The list went way beyond my sense of reason but hey that's irrelevant. At the conclusion of her presentation she asked the audience for their help. She asked that we plead with the Hennepin County Judges to stop letting the criminals back out on the street on a routine basis and to put pressure on them to send some of these criminals to prison. She said that it is the same 5-10% of the criminals that are committing most of the crimes. She said her officers are arresting them over and over and over again. She gave pointed examples of violent crimes that occur ed which may have been prevented if that criminal had been incarcerated in the first place. She said if her officers were not continually bogged down in arresting the same people all the time the entire police force could do with way less officers. Ya know, the people like Terry McMasters and others that have multiple arrests on their record and are allowed to continue terrorizing communities like mine. You would think our mayor and city council members would want to jump on that fact. If th e city could save money in the police budget by documenting how much we are paying to arrest the same people over and over and over again maybe seeing some dollar signs might hit home with some of these judges. I am not talking about misdemeanor crimes here. I am talking felonies. We saw how quickly people started to pay attention when the crystal meth became a problem in suburban and rural communities. The legislators were ready to change the law to ensure the crystal meth criminals went to jail at the expense of the crack heads. Because we all know crack is largely an inner-city crime and who cares about the inner-city? They were even getting help in their quest from a legislator in North Minneapolis. I get a little sick of the double standard. What's not o.k. in Stillwater is just fine in Whittier or Phillips or Jordan or Hawthorne. Barb Lickness Whittier Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. -- Margaret Mead REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Church State?
I really feel icky responding to this. Like I've been dragged in the mud. But this is really sad. I think this is a red herring, and perhaps even a bit of a canard. I was there. Patrick Scully only asked about an abortion rights rally. He never mentioned any sort of GLBT event or concerns. Brother Michael in turn asked him how often there are pro-choice rallys on athletic fields. Nikki Carlson, Linden Hills Pro-choice, DeLaSalle parent, and GLBT parent Phyllis Kahn wrote: Let me add a few comments on the separation of Church and State issue. This is from a conversation that Patrick Scully (An Island resident and the force behind Patrick's Cabaret) had with Brother Michael Collins (principal of DeLaSalle). Remember this is supposed to be a public space, under the ultimate control of a public entity as MN state bonding $$ were used to purchase the park land involved. Patrick asked what would happen if a group wanted to use this space for an Abortion Rights or a GLBT event. Brother Michael said that permission would have to come from the Archdiocese. It is true he was just answering off the top of his head, but it doesn't sound like appropriate park board policy to me. REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Pawlenty Scolds Minneapolis on DWI Memo - What a hypocrit
Atta girl Barb.. Remember this without crime we would be able to downsize the police department and the number of judges hearing criminal cases. I'll bet there are no drug dealers or gang-related shooting outside our judges front doors. I was told by a female sergeant that the criminals are back on the street before the ink on a police report is dry. The issue is not just the judges it is the city and county attorneys too. Here you have attorneys who offer plea agreements in drug cases and take disorderly conducts to trial, wasting our dollars. Let's not forget that Clemons/Flowers trial that the city shelled out over $70,000.00(According to the Spokesman-Recorder) only to have a jury say not guilty and that the case should have never gone to trial. How about the drug dealer guy who said the police used a plunger on him, which I never believed. Where is he? The city got so sidetracked by his lie that they seem to have forgotten he is a drug dealer who has wrecked havoc on the community. If you are going to get mad, you have to include every one who has power to make change in drug and gang cases. The judge, in most cases, accept the plea agreements from the city and county attorney. I spoke with a Judge years ago, when most of you will recall the HOTSPOTS and CODEFOR, which preceded STOP, was implemented. The only group not at the table were judges. Meth, Crack, Cocaine, Heroin.I don't care what the drug is and where it is being served there should be mandatory sentencing in those cases. But that will not ever happen. What happened to the two Minneapolis City Attorneys busted in the drug raid? Their evidence was thrown out by a judge the last I heard. Things that make you go Hmm. Michelle Hill Cleveland REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] viable Savage, Ward 10
Harry, also had people stand up for him after his first speech. If he was in 12..I would vote for him since I favor someone who can speak their mind, have a bit of color and takes a stand on issues...no secrets there! I believe he would be a hard worker; he is as bright as any in office today and seems to have the passion. Anyone who has tossed their hat into the ring and paid the money should be respected as a viable candidate...like them or not. Go Harry! dorie gallagher/nokomis Sure, Harry was booed at the DFL convention, but how many voters does an all-day, city convention truly influence, especially when there is no endorsement... - Tom Moore Wedge Neighborhood Ward Ten Candidate, City Council www.candidatemoore.blogspot.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] DeLasalle and process issues
In my mind this whole controversy over DeLaSalle boils down to process and management. If we look back on what has happened so far, we can see that it was not only poorly planned and executed, but was manhandled by the Park Board. At the core of the Park Boards problems is the lack of controls and process that would have avoided this kind of situation. 1) Planning We are not following any kind of master planning strategy. As a result our Park Board does not have a long term vision and bounces from project to project without looking at the impact on future park development, city development goals and future financial requirements. We are not implement policy in a systematic, comprehensive or thorough way leading toward defined goals. Planning provides clear criteria for land use and explicit justifications for decisions. A planned process eliminates many arbitrary or capricious decisions and provides a context that can demonstrate the effectiveness, fairness or appropriateness of land use decisions. 2) Financial controls We do not have a firm grasp on what money is coming in and where it is going. The Park Board has been unable or unwilling to publish a comprehensive budget that thoroughly accounts for spending on particular parks or by district needs. We simply do not have the data necessary to properly analyze or critique spending decisions. Park Board spending priorities are difficult to determine. We do not know if fiscal controls are truly in poor shape or if resources are simply being mis allocated, the information provided for public scrutiny is not detailed enough to know. Some money has simply 'disappeared'. 3) Projects, Contracts and Contract Negotiations. Projects and development schemes are negotiated in isolation, without the knowledge or consent of some Park Board commissioners. Projects are put forward without a proper vetting process. Projects sometimes seem to be started by ronin management, organized behind closed doors and implement under the radar. From the outside this all has a smarmy appearance. To make matters worse projects have been negotiated and deals were sealed that the Park Board is not fully authorized to make, or without proper indemnification leading to a wide variety of avoidable legal and financial liabilities. Civil Service hiring rules have been ignored or not fully followed and employment contracts have been signed without proper oversight. Park resources of the highest value are being taken out of the public domain and are being contracted and leased out for returns that are below market value. Contracts have been signed with private sector vendors that allocate Park Resources to 'bring in money', but the life cycle cost for administering the contract sometimes exceeds payments, requiring taxpayers to indirectly subsidize private vendor operations. Park finances are routinely exposed to high risk financial and legal situations, without commensurate benefits for the public in general. This is a distraction and financial drain on core park services. A couple of questions quickly show the practical nature of this problem with regards to the DeLaSalle negotiations, the answers seem unclear to me: A) Who is in charge of negotiations, who is the decision maker for the Park Board? B) Does the decision maker have ultimate responsibility for vetting and directing that process and do they have full oversight authority? C) If they do not have full oversight authority and access to all contract documents and negotiation proceedings are they the actual decision maker? D) Is the real decision maker elected? E) Is the decision maker following Park Board rules, and if not, why not? F) What responsibility does the decision maker have to voters if any? G) Does the decision maker have a personal interest in this, is he obligated to be fair? 4) Core Park Services All services have suffered and are not being delivered efficiently. Dutch elm removals, Park Maintenance (swamp of the isles, decaying playground equipment etc.), youth activities and other core services are falling below what has been delivered in the past and are being delivered in a way that is not making full and efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Wasteful and redundant management is being added while park maintenance staff is being cut, placing an undue burden on existing staff and leading to deferred or incomplete maintenance of some areas. Park operations have become top heavy with too much innefficient management and too few workers and staff. Some Park Board mission priorities are shifting from providing general park services towards being an entertainment provider and facilities management group and skills like grounds keeping, horticulture and urban forestry are not being given proper respect. Park resources are being fragmented, degraded, dispersed and allowed to decay.
Re: [Mpls] DeLaSalle Alumni
Jim Bernstein said: There are a number of alternatives available for De La Salle if it wishes to have its own stadium What ARE the alternatives? We've discussed astroturf and two closed roads and a stadium or having DeLaSalle continue what they've done in the past... or busing the kids to Boom Island, Fort Snelling, etc. Someone out there has thought of one or more solutions that would work for everyone. Share the knowledge. What solutions? Madeline Douglass Kingfield REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Pawlenty Scolds Minneapolis on DWI Memo - What a hypocrit
The problems I hear being discussed strike me as *Minneapolis* problems... that is not to say that the Governor shouldn't be involved, but let me ask this: how many have actually contacted the Governor about their concerns in the neighborhood or in the city? Any takers? Minnesota is a pretty big state. If you don't tell the Governor what's going on in your neck of the woods you can't very well expect the man to come running over to your block party or calling you up if your neighbor runs a crack house. (I do know that Don Samuels has contacted him regarding violence in Jordan, and was pleased to see that he got some results. Good for Don; good for Tim) But I have a sneaking suspicion that those who are quickest to blame our city problems on the Guv are those who would be least likely to give him a real and earnest telephone call... Just trying to be fair in West Phillips, (and NOT an employee or volunteer of Governor Pawlenty) Connie Nompelis West Phillips Powderhorn --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Atta girl Barb.. Remember this without crime we would be able to downsize the police department and the number of judges hearing criminal cases. I'll bet there are no drug dealers or gang-related shooting outside our judges front doors. I was told by a female sergeant that the criminals are back on the street before the ink on a police report is dry. The issue is not just the judges it is the city and county attorneys too. Here you have attorneys who offer plea agreements in drug cases and take disorderly conducts to trial, wasting our dollars. Let's not forget that Clemons/Flowers trial that the city shelled out over $70,000.00(According to the Spokesman-Recorder) only to have a jury say not guilty and that the case should have never gone to trial. How about the drug dealer guy who said the police used a plunger on him, which I never believed. Where is he? The city got so sidetracked by his lie that they seem to have forgotten he is a drug dealer who has wrecked havoc on the community. If you are going to get mad, you have to include every one who has power to make change in drug and gang cases. The judge, in most cases, accept the plea agreements from the city and county attorney. I spoke with a Judge years ago, when most of you will recall the HOTSPOTS and CODEFOR, which preceded STOP, was implemented. The only group not at the table were judges. Meth, Crack, Cocaine, Heroin.I don't care what the drug is and where it is being served there should be mandatory sentencing in those cases. But that will not ever happen. What happened to the two Minneapolis City Attorneys busted in the drug raid? Their evidence was thrown out by a judge the last I heard. Things that make you go Hmm. Michelle Hill Cleveland REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] 8th ward candidate fora?
Perhaps it's just that it's summer, or maybe I've passed too many times on reading posts. But I'm in the dark about upcoming pre-primary candidate fora for our crowded 8th ward ballot. I had a chance to listen to the candidates last spring in the SW Journal/SS Pride forum, but came away without a clear favorite, and would like to see how the candidates have developed since then. Does anybody know the times and places? Steve Brandt Kingfield The Tail on the 8th Ward Dog REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Pawlenty Scolds Minneapolis on DWI Memo - What a hypocrit
I agree with Connie Nompelis that people should express issues with the governor, but in the case of crime in Minneapolis the Governor only needs to pick up a newspaper or watch the news to know that there is a crime, drug and gang problem in Minneapolis. It is his responsibility to know what is going on in Minnesota, and Minneapolis is a part of Minnesota. My issue is not with the governor, but with those who govern within Minneapolis. But he too bears responsibility for the safety of all in Minnesota, not just those driving drunk. I will take your advise and call the governor to ask if he knows there is a crime, gang and drug problem in Minneapolis and the residents are fed up!! Michelle Hill Cleveland REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Nicollet Island - Closing Another Street?
I phoned MPRB today, and was informed by Judd Rietkerk, Director Of Planning, that East Island Ave. would not be closed by the proposed DeLasalle project. Originally, I was confused as to exactly which portions of which streets would be closed. So, I emailed Commissioner Mason, and she forwarded my question to MPRB staff. Don Siggelkow, MPRB General Manager, replied with a note that indicated the closing of a segment of East Island Ave. Questioning this reply, I emailed again. And received a second reply from Mr Sigglekow, again indicating the closing of a segment of E. Island Ave. Then after receiving several messages from credible sources doubting this statement, I emailed Mr. Siggelkow a third time - and have not yet received a reply to this third email. And actually, since talking to Mr. Rietkerk on the phone today, I now feel comfortable that I have the answer to the street closing question. However, I must say that I am rather dismaying at being given bad information, and needlessly causing unease in a number of folks. Dave Stack Harrison/Linden Hills - This message was sent using Endymion MailMan. http://www.endymion.com/products/mailman/ REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] DeLaSalle Alumni
Madeline Douglass said: Jim Bernstein said: There are a number of alternatives available for De La Salle if it wishes to have its own stadium What ARE the alternatives? We've discussed astroturf and two closed roads and a stadium or having DeLaSalle continue what they've done in the past... or busing the kids to Boom Island, Fort Snelling, etc. Someone out there has thought of one or more solutions that would work for everyone. Share the knowledge. What solutions? Madeline Douglass Kingfield Barry says: The alternatives that have been suggested include the following: 1. Play at an existing city school field. This would mean some sort of agreement with the School Board, but they have lots of fields and it would be hard for them to turn down if DeLaSalle dangled even a little of the 2 plus million dollars they want to spend here. I asked Brother Michael at the Nicollet Island East Bank Board Meeting if they'd thought of using the Minneapolis North field - about 5 minutes away by bus. He said the neighborhood was too bad. Ouch! I lived a block away from that field for 14 years - my dogs loved running the track. 2. Play at an existing City Park field. According to the Park Board website, there are more than 10 within a few minutes by bus. They are not as improved as DeLaSalle wants - but again $2 millski goes a long way to fix up a field. 3. Parade Stadium has been suggested to DeLaSalle - even by Park Board Commissioners. 4. Webster Open School is on the list of schools to be closed. It's about 6 blocks from DeLaSalle and it has a field. It's an obvious choice. 5. Other? The neighborhood and adjacent neighborhoods have offered to work with the school to find other alternatives. DeLaSalle hasn't been interested. The above are the specific options that have been discussed. When asked at the last neighborhood-wide meeting whether any alternatives had been considered, a DeLaSalle representative reponded that they would look at other alternatives if and when they didn't get their field on Nicollet Island. I am not a DeLaSalle basher. I am glad to have the school as a neighbor and consider myself a supporter. I AM disappointed that the school has not engaged either the Park Board or the community in a serious discussion about alternatives. All of the above proposals are factual and documented. Barry Clegg Nicollet Island REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] RE: Mayoral Candidate Don Johnson....
Mayoral candidate Don Johnson had a table and was handing out flyers at Lynnhurst Park at the Neighborhood Festival the other night, along with other candidates for Mayor and City Council. I guess Don Johnson is spending about a thousand bucks on his campaign. How much are other Mayoral Candidates spending, and on what? Mr. Johnson has some good visionary ideas available at: http://donjohnsonmayor.org/ The Observer did a blurb on his campaign here: http://www.mplsobserver.com/ballotbox.php I'm curious to know what list members think of Mr. Johnson's rather visionary candidacy as compared to others. Does he raise important issues? Could Minneapolis be heading down the wrong path in terms of ecological and economic development? Could Minneapolitans choose truly ecological economic development even if we wanted to do so? Do most Minneapolitans care enough to make sustainable development an issue? -- pedaling for peace and ecojustice from Lynnhurst -- Gary Hoover REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Don Johnson
Gary Hoover wrote: The Observer reports on Johnson's campaign: The Don Johnson mayoral campaign continues to churn out material. The latest salvo promises that a Johnson administration would reduce taxes, pollution and greenhouse gasses and build renewable energy with state and federal funds that would not only produce thousands of kilowatts of free, clean electricity and not only produce thousands of jobs, but most importantly stop the flow of billions of dollars out of our city and state by reducing our overuse of fossil and nuclear fuels. ( http://www.mplsobserver.com/ballotbox.php ) I think Johnson is right on target. I You do? The Observer's report is dangerously incomplete. I'm concerned that you are so quick to endorse a candidate who is anti-immigrant, pro-sprawl and stuck in the frame that taxes are evil. Johnson puts forward untruths (most of the University stadium is privately funded), makes misleading statements (internet over the electrical grid is hardly proven technology) and lacks the vision to understand how well-planned urban development can positively impact our region. His rant about elms is simply bizarre. Johnson has a lot of ideas. Whether they are good should be seriously questioned. David Greene The Wedge REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] (no subject)
Dan quipped Setting aside the fact that Dave Shegstad has never held public office, asking neighbors, What has Dave Shegstad done for you? would reveal some pretty interesting stories. He's pretty tight-lipped about such things, but I've heard some stories from his brother, such as the elderly neighbor who needed a new roof, but didn't have the resources to have one put on her house. Dave got in his truck, picked up the materials with his own money, and put the roof on with his own sweat. Shegstad is well known around the neighborhood as good samaritan. He's volunteered to serve on advisory boards, worked as a volunteer precinct leader, mentored first-time small business owners, and helped to keep us safe with service in the National Guard, and Minneapolis Police Reserves. Sounds just like my next door neighbor-only I do not think she should run for city council...and we all do charity work. I gave all my election judge earnings to planned parenthood on ford parkway...and I mentor small business owners all the time. And I have kept the neighbor safe reporting the bad houses...I am sure we can come up with what has been done in Ward 9starting with some pretty fine coffee and a great building to look at on the corner. Gina Palandri Standish -- Using Opera's revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/mail/ REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Council to Consider Protecting Neighborhood Funds
Council to Consider Protecting Neighborhood Funds City Council president Paul Ostrow on Tuesday waded into the turbulent waters of Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) politics to clarify what he said is the city's murky handling of neighborhood organization revenues. Go to: http://www.mplsobserver.com/ -- Craig Cox Founder/Editor The Minneapolis Observer www.mplsobserver.com 612/721-0285 Support the independent media! Pick up your neighborhood newspaper! REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] [Bloomington] July/August issue of the Watchdog News available online
Hi Everyone, I finally have the latest copy of the Watchdog on the web site. At the moment it's a 12MB PDF file, but we hope to be able to reduce the file size for any of you that have not joined the high-bandwidth bandwagon. Please contact me if you cannot deal with this big version. The new web site should be ready soon with any luck and editorial approval. The new site will feature issues that have been converted to HTML for easier online viewing. Any comments about the paper can be directed to me, and I can see they are passed on, or just passed up. With the advent of the new site will come email address access to the editor, staff, advertising, etc. We are looking for comments and suggestions for the site if you have any. Some ideas that have been tossed around are Forums, Blogs, Classifieds, Email alerts, RSS feeds, Reader newsletters, Letters to the Editor, Public Comment, Ask the Webmaster, local business profiles, and a few mumbled from the back of the room that were not fully articulated. At the next meeting I am going to suggest that we consider hosting a discussion list, not unlike this one. We are not looking to compete, but rather fill a need that I have observed here. Our discussion list would encourage flaming, insulting, belittling, berating, browbeating, intimidation, name-calling, scorn, scoffing, dismissiveness, and general lack of regard for the feelings of others, respect of their viewpoints (no matter how logical or verifiable), and no semblance of professionalism. And we will allow extensive email signatures and you will finally be able to include all of the previous messages and replies every time you post. Think how much that will speed up the posting process...! My suggestion for this format is to provide what some are looking for, but also because I will not have to provide the hours of (mostly) thankless work that moderators of well-run lists like this one must put in to keep it maintained. No, the only work I will have to do is delete the occasional ad for body part enhancements or Nigerian princes looking for safe passage to the US. On second thought, I doubt anyone would notice... Thank you, Chris Nielsen, webmaster The Watchdog News http://www.Watchdog-News.com REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] RE: Mayoral Candidate Don Johnson....
From the Don Johnson for mayor website: Building ever more hi-rise housing is going to bring more congestion, crowding and pollution and encourage more immigration into our city. But, of course, foot and bicycle are better ways to move about the city. We should be encouraging or rewarding people who don't use internal combustion engines. H. Matty Lang Central Gary Hoover [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Mayoral candidate Don Johnson had a table and was handing out flyers at Lynnhurst Park at the Neighborhood Festival the other night, along with other candidates for Mayor and City Council. I guess Don Johnson is spending about a thousand bucks on his campaign. How much are other Mayoral Candidates spending, and on what? Mr. Johnson has some good visionary ideas available at: http://donjohnsonmayor.org/ The Observer did a blurb on his campaign here: http://www.mplsobserver.com/ballotbox.php I'm curious to know what list members think of Mr. Johnson's rather visionary candidacy as compared to others. Does he raise important issues? Could Minneapolis be heading down the wrong path in terms of ecological and economic development? Could Minneapolitans choose truly ecological economic development even if we wanted to do so? Do most Minneapolitans care enough to make sustainable development an issue? -- pedaling for peace and ecojustice from Lynnhurst -- Gary Hoover REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] mprb meeting minutes
Earlier today, someone mustered up the energy to create post meeting minutes for the 8/3 meeting- which is a step in the right direction. Absent from the official record are commissioners' votes (except when roll is called). http://minneapolisparks.org/documents/meetings/minutes/uploaded08-03-05Regularmarked.pdf Regards, Jason Stone Diamond Lake REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] (no subject)
Dan happens to be a very nice person and has had a business in this area for years. He has brought stability to an area that has had it's ups and downs. He has brought a service to those of us who have needed fencing. He has maintained a business that is run on honest hard work. He has been very involved within the community. He is not in my district but once again...don't discount people who have the guts to toss their hats into the ring because they feel that there are problems and they would like to help solve them. Is that not what elections are for? Better than spewing on the net. dorie gallagher/nokomis Gina quipped: I doubt it will be a very spirited race...but Dan, you can dream if you want. But lets ask the neighbors, what has Shegstad done for us?? Setting aside the fact that Dave Shegstad has never held public office, asking neighbors, What has Dave Shegstad done for you? would reveal some pretty interesting stories Dan McGrath http://www.shegstad.us REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] In Ballot Box: Hodges Confident in Race Against Park Board Prez
In Ballot Box: Hodges Confident in Race Against Park Board Prez; also Colvin Roy and the stormwater controversy Go to: http://www.mplsobserver.com/ and click on Ballot Box -- Craig Cox Founder/Editor The Minneapolis Observer www.mplsobserver.com 612/721-0285 Support the independent media! Pick up your neighborhood newspaper! REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Dorie Rae Gallagher writes: Anyone who has tossed their hat into the ring and paid the money should be respected as a viable candidate... RL: I would like to edit Ms. Gallagher's fine statement to read, Anyone who has tossed their hat into the ring and paid the money should be respected PERIOD. For me, all candidates in our municipal elections are worthy of respect regardless of their viability. These are our friends and neighbors who have stepped forward and taken risks. They've put themselves out there because they feel they have something to offer. I've been distressed lately by the lack of respect shown by some candidates and their supporters to their opponents; especially in races with lots of challengers. I urge voters to pay attention to how a candidate and their campaign treat the competition. This, I believe, is a pretty good indicator of how s/he will behave in office. It is impossible to agree with your elected representatives 100 percent of the time. When you disagree with, or challenge him/her do you want your council member to become disrespectful, argumentative and belittling? Or would you prefer him/her to participate in, or lead, a respectful and robust debate? A public debate which invites and respects the broadest viewpoints will result in an outcome where the highest number of people will see their interests represented. It's up to us, the people, to keep it respectful and keep it real. The broader public's role is to demand respectful discourse. The candidate and his/her supporters' role is to provide it. Peace, Robert Lilligren Council Member Ward 8 Candidate Ward 6 Phillips West www.voterobet.com REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] R-E-S-P-E-C-T
On Tuesday, August 9, 2005, at 11:04 PM, Robert Lilligren wrote: For me, all candidates in our municipal elections are worthy of respect regardless of their viability. These are our friends and neighbors who have stepped forward and taken risks. They've put themselves out there because they feel they have something to offer. I've been distressed lately by the lack of respect shown by some candidates and their supporters to their opponents; especially in races with lots of challengers. I urge voters to pay attention to how a candidate and their campaign treat the competition. This, I believe, is a pretty good indicator of how s/he will behave in office. THANK YOU CM Lilligren for this timely and important message. And THANKS to Arthur Himmelman for his message: On Friday, August 5, 2005, at 09:22 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I realize that this may be an unrealistic request, but I am wondering if anyone would like to try to do more of what Jon Stewart asked of CNN's Crossfire crowd: Would you analyze, discuss, and debate the substantive issues of the politics that you are discussing rather than simply attacking the political strategies and personal qualities of those that you oppose? There's not much I can add to these clear messages. Best wishes, Laura Laura Waterman Wittstock Candidate for Minneapolis Library Board of Trustees DFL and Labor endorsed Minneapolis, MN 612-387-4915 www.laurawatermanwittstock.com http://laurawatermanwittstock.blogspot.com/ Wittstock for Library Committee 913 19th Avenue SE, Mpls, 55414 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] SHEGSTAD...glbt issues?
Gina Writes: And lets call Shegstad and see how he feels on GLBT issueswould he feel one way one day...one way another day...do I hear the word flip flop?? If you really want to know, why don't you do as you suggest, and call him? If anyone has any questions about Dave, just call and ask him. his number is on his campaign website at http://www.shegstad.us. There's also an email form. It will be answered. When he says, I'll listen to you, he means it. I can't fathom where this flip-flop accusation comes from. Shegstad hasn't ever held elected office. He's not a politician (which makes him very appealing as a candidate to me). He's never even been in a position to flip-flop. I do know his character, though, and he's a person who says what he means, and does what he says. If you are suggesting that his seeking multi-party endorsements is evidence of a wishy-washy flip-flopping nature, you have misread Dave's intentions entirely. People who hold elected office have an obligation to represent all of their constituents, to hear their concerns, and act on them. It isn't about partisan politics. A constituent from the Green Party has as much right to representation as a DFLer in the ward. Many politicians don't see it that way, and are more loyal to their party than to the actual people they are supposed to represent. That's why Shegstad sought multiple endorsements. He doesn't care about party politics. He cares about his neighborhood, and his neighbors. That's where his loyalties lay. Dan McGrath Longfellow http://www.shegstad.us REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Linda Higgins: Tear Down This (your) Wall/ Diversity Good/Practice It/Shegadelic
Keith says: Dave Shegstad, whom I do not know, appears open and forthright enough about his political outlook to take it to the street and shop it around to audiences of divergent outlook. He is, apparently, not shy about sharing his opinions with those who might possibly disagree with one, or another issue that he would present to an audience. As reported by Linda H. , he is out there in DFL machine turf presenting his ideas. Perhaps some one, or another, or many, of those ideas didn't fit in with Linda H's sense of choreography; her dance with the Machine. But perhaps some others who identify as DFL, less entrenched and more mindful of the need for compromise and settlement to accomplish anything for the public good, were willing, or even pleased to listen to someone from the other side of the sandbags. Do Shop It Around, Mr. Shegstad!! Perhaps you will bring some understanding to a Machine. Some understanding of the need to cross political boundaries to enlist some open minds; and garner some support and endorsement for your ideas and beliefs. Endorsement from people, even within the DFL Party, who haven't sublimated their actual exercise of multiculturalism for political orthodoxy; and are willing to listen to other views. You will reach open minded people, in any Party, who have not placed political identity and political orthodoxy ahead of listening to those with other outlooks. Those, such as yourself, and CM Natalie Johnson Lee, are pillars of the democratic process who respectfully ask for an audience and support from diverse groups Please do not let the Machine shame you away from your quest for diversity. Keith Reitman NearNorth Linda Higgins said: Dan McGrath stated: Dave Shegstad is, as mentioned, endorsed by the 5th CD Republicans. He sought the endorsement of all 4 major political parties in Minneapolis, which includes the Republicans, the DFL, the Greens, and the Independence Party. This is a curious statement. Does Mr. Shegstad (whom I have never met) have no core values that would align him with one party or the other? Why would he seek endorsement of parties other than the one he aligns with? Or, if he is an independent, why is he seeking the endorsement from ANY party? I can think of no one else who, when denied endorsement from the Dems would go to the Repubs for endorsement, or vice versa. I know when Natalie Johnson Lee did not get endorsed by the Dems in 2001, she went to the Green Party for endorsement, but they at least have similar stands on many topics. But going to all four parties? How can you shop yourself to those who adhere to the Republican platform, then go off and shop yourself to the Dems? That's not being honest with someone - yourself, to start with. Let's see: Today when I talk to the Rs, I'm prolife; but tomorrow when I talk to the Ds, I'm prochoice? Today I'm for the war, but tomorrow I'm against it? Today I'm for tax cuts, but tomorrow I'm a tax and spender? Yikes. How is any voter supposed to know what this man believes in and how he might act if elected? Linda Higgins Old Highland, fifth ward REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
