The republican convetion to be held here in Minnesota is not that far away. Here is a great opportunity for you to help. Here is a link to the volunteer page https://jobs.quickhire.com/scripts/msp2008.exe, and you could help the convention in many ways.
You can also learn more about the convention at there home page here, http://www.msp2008.com/home.
I will have more later and am going to ask the group to interview with me as well.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
post
I should have time tomorrow to post a bit at least I hope to. If not Sunday maybe anyway. I hope to be able to do some posting this weekend, there is a lot going on.
Tim Russert gone to soon.
Meet the Press host Tim Russert died earlier today at work. Reports were he was working in his show for Sunday. He collapsed from a heart attack on the floor the NBC broadcast headquarters.
I always liked Tim Russert. I did not always agree with him but I understand more where he came from as a broadcaster and his love for his job, politics, and his family were second to none.
This is one of those things that I will always remember. I will always remember were I was and what I was doing when I first heard about his death.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
What is the City Goverment doing on the front page.
I am shocked and disappointed that they Mayor broke his promise. He said he was going to get City Government off of the front page of the paper. Yet that is all that has been on the front page.
I am really not shocked nor disappointed it shows just how inept this guy it to run our city. I was more then willing to give Mr. Ness the benefit of the doubt but he has done nothing but the same. His ideas are not a new vision like he said they would be. They are nothing but the same disguised to try to fool people.
The cuts he is introducing are insane and I will have much more on that later it may take a few days as I am busy but once it is up your will want to read it.
I am really not shocked nor disappointed it shows just how inept this guy it to run our city. I was more then willing to give Mr. Ness the benefit of the doubt but he has done nothing but the same. His ideas are not a new vision like he said they would be. They are nothing but the same disguised to try to fool people.
The cuts he is introducing are insane and I will have much more on that later it may take a few days as I am busy but once it is up your will want to read it.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Minnesota Monitor no more....
The Minnesota Monitor changed it's name and look. Check them out at http://www.minnesotaindependent.com/.
Duluth Politics pages.
Duluth Politics pages are now up and running. We have them listed just above the about us section on the blog. Top right of the page. We have a sports page and an interview and column page.
Franken kicked off his campaign.
Newly endorsed DFL candidate Al Fraken kicked off his general campaign today in Duluth. He made stop at the Labor Temple in the Wellstone room today from 2:30 to 3:30 this afternoon.
We are expecting details soon of his visit from our staff. Stay tuned for more.
We are expecting details soon of his visit from our staff. Stay tuned for more.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Some councilors don't like the idea of voting on red plan resoultion.
I am as much against the red plan as any one is however I also don't like the idea of the council voting on this issue. I agree with Harry Welty most of the time of this issue however on this one we disagree. His view point on it can be found herehttp://lincolndemocrat.com/?p=1281.
Many people use the argument that the council has voted on many things in the past that do not apply to city business. I would agree with that, councils in the past have voted on issues such as being against the war, being against president Bush ect..... however I don't believe that means you need to this council in that spot.
In many cases lets be honest when one local government steps in on another local government it makes the one getting interfere it makes them mad. Why should they have to listen to anything the council does. I know you want government to work together however it just does not happen that way most of the time. They are there own government.
I don't believe the council should take action one way or the other on the red plan. I hope the red plan is stopped but I don't believe the city council is an avenue that should be used.
Many people use the argument that the council has voted on many things in the past that do not apply to city business. I would agree with that, councils in the past have voted on issues such as being against the war, being against president Bush ect..... however I don't believe that means you need to this council in that spot.
In many cases lets be honest when one local government steps in on another local government it makes the one getting interfere it makes them mad. Why should they have to listen to anything the council does. I know you want government to work together however it just does not happen that way most of the time. They are there own government.
I don't believe the council should take action one way or the other on the red plan. I hope the red plan is stopped but I don't believe the city council is an avenue that should be used.
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Margaret Ciccone
After 31 years of service to the city of Superior Ciccone packs bags. Many of you will know the name of Margaret Ciccone when she was Mayor of the Superior. She was a victim of a recall vote. I did not always agree with her when she was the Mayor of Superior however thought the recall was out of this world. It was uncalled for.
She also held post of city clerk among others. She went back to her city clerk position after her recall as Mayor of Superior. She said her message would that you watch your government and be involved in it. Her last day on the job was Friday.
Best of luck and best wishes to her as she moves on to life after retirement.
She also held post of city clerk among others. She went back to her city clerk position after her recall as Mayor of Superior. She said her message would that you watch your government and be involved in it. Her last day on the job was Friday.
Best of luck and best wishes to her as she moves on to life after retirement.
Best news yet.
Thank you to the DFL for the endorsement of Al Franken today. The DFL endorsed there candidate today in at the State convention.
Today they chose to endorse Al Fraken to run against Norm Coleman. I was a bit shocked that there was an endorsement today. I was thinking they were going to go with no endorsement at all. With the troubles of Al Franken it almost ensures Mr. Coleman a victory. If you are unaware of the many problems that Franken has had you can view them at Minnesota Democrats Exposed, www.http://www.http//www.minnesotademocratsexposed.com/.
Today they chose to endorse Al Fraken to run against Norm Coleman. I was a bit shocked that there was an endorsement today. I was thinking they were going to go with no endorsement at all. With the troubles of Al Franken it almost ensures Mr. Coleman a victory. If you are unaware of the many problems that Franken has had you can view them at Minnesota Democrats Exposed, www.http://www.http//www.minnesotademocratsexposed.com/.
Clinton ends bid.
Hillary Clinton ended her chance to become president today. The talk had been a round for a long time as many of you know.
Here is what I find interesting. She choose to hold her endorsement of Obama on a Saturday. Why is this interesting because it is the slowest news day of the week. To me it means she did not want to end her campaign nor did she really want to endorse Obama.
More on this later. I did however want to toss out the discussion.
Here is what I find interesting. She choose to hold her endorsement of Obama on a Saturday. Why is this interesting because it is the slowest news day of the week. To me it means she did not want to end her campaign nor did she really want to endorse Obama.
More on this later. I did however want to toss out the discussion.
Talk of the Town
Today on talk of the town is city councilor Todd Fedora. Make sure you tune into webc today starting at 7 a.m.
Passing the buck.
Our Mayor Don Ness has changed his proposal for the the sewer system. This one is even more of a joke then his first plan. He is passing the buck now more then he was before. Some thing this Mayor has done sense he took office this year. Most defiantly something he did as a city councilor as well.
The new plan cuts the monthly surcharge in half from near $10.0 a month to $5.57 a month. However now the city is not going to help pay or pay for the sewer line repair at all and that will cost you a small amount of money. Just 7,500 on average, heck everyone has that much laying around right?
Once again this Mayor just passing the buck. The council does have to approve this. More to come soon.
The new plan cuts the monthly surcharge in half from near $10.0 a month to $5.57 a month. However now the city is not going to help pay or pay for the sewer line repair at all and that will cost you a small amount of money. Just 7,500 on average, heck everyone has that much laying around right?
Once again this Mayor just passing the buck. The council does have to approve this. More to come soon.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Mayor Ness and some Councilors not getting along?
Well it seems as if Mayor Ness and some councilor's don't see eye to. What are they not seeing eye to on? It would be on how to get rid of the deficit. At least how to make strides to do so.
Yet the mayor has not even announced his plan. Why all the bickering now then. The Chamber held a forum on the issue. According to the Duluth News Tribune there was some harsh words from a couple of councilors and Mayor Ness.
Ness said he’ll present solutions for how the city will address the $5 million budget deficit he “inherited” will be presented to the council Monday night, saying they will be “painful for me personally and painful for people in the community.”
This quote leads me to believe that most of his solutions will be increases in taxes also other forms of increases. I thought the Mayor wanted to cut the size of Government, wait it was a smoke screen.
When it came time for Fedora to speak, he immediately rebuked the mayor.
Nobody inherited a budget. That budget was approved,” Fedora said. “We’ve been pissing away money in the city for years, and the chickens have come home to roost.”
Councilor Fedora is correct, the budget was not inherited by this mayor. Mayor Ness is passing the buck like he always has. Mayor Ness was on the council when the budgets came up for a vote. Yes he voted in favor of them, knowing full well that there was not money.
More to come on this later.
Yet the mayor has not even announced his plan. Why all the bickering now then. The Chamber held a forum on the issue. According to the Duluth News Tribune there was some harsh words from a couple of councilors and Mayor Ness.
Ness said he’ll present solutions for how the city will address the $5 million budget deficit he “inherited” will be presented to the council Monday night, saying they will be “painful for me personally and painful for people in the community.”
This quote leads me to believe that most of his solutions will be increases in taxes also other forms of increases. I thought the Mayor wanted to cut the size of Government, wait it was a smoke screen.
When it came time for Fedora to speak, he immediately rebuked the mayor.
Nobody inherited a budget. That budget was approved,” Fedora said. “We’ve been pissing away money in the city for years, and the chickens have come home to roost.”
Councilor Fedora is correct, the budget was not inherited by this mayor. Mayor Ness is passing the buck like he always has. Mayor Ness was on the council when the budgets came up for a vote. Yes he voted in favor of them, knowing full well that there was not money.
More to come on this later.
Brandon Stahl
Duluth News Tribune staff writer Brandon Stahl has been criticized by some. Mr. Stahl covers the city politics for the paper.
Now there are times to be critical of a paper and or it's writer's. However the criticism of Mr. Stahl to me at to this point has been unwarranted. I have heard a lot of people say Brandon does not know what he is talking about. Why because of research he finds. The fact is you may not agree with the research. With that said however you can find our own facts about a story line and write about it then.
It does not need to be for a paper start a blog and write about what ever you want. Mr. Stahl does need me to defend him, I am however sick of the game of blaming some one else first before taking your own action.
I am one that wants to come up with solutions to help Duluth. I don't just want to complain. I can however complain with the best of them lol. I think that we need to move toward looking for solution on the issues that face Duluth instead of playing the pointing game and passing the buck.
Now there are times to be critical of a paper and or it's writer's. However the criticism of Mr. Stahl to me at to this point has been unwarranted. I have heard a lot of people say Brandon does not know what he is talking about. Why because of research he finds. The fact is you may not agree with the research. With that said however you can find our own facts about a story line and write about it then.
It does not need to be for a paper start a blog and write about what ever you want. Mr. Stahl does need me to defend him, I am however sick of the game of blaming some one else first before taking your own action.
I am one that wants to come up with solutions to help Duluth. I don't just want to complain. I can however complain with the best of them lol. I think that we need to move toward looking for solution on the issues that face Duluth instead of playing the pointing game and passing the buck.
MI Statewide Smoking Ban
Michigan is the latest state to take action against smoking in public places. The House and Senate remain in a deadlock on the specifics of a state-wide ban on smoking in workplaces. The Senate wants to exempt Horse Tracks, casinos and other traditional smoking locations from complying; however, bars and restaurants will be forced to comply. The House has already passed a bill with some exemptions.
The owner of the Red Mesa Restaurant in Traverse City, MI and Pearl's Restaurant in Elk Rapids, MI say non-smokers comprise 80% of business. The smoking sections are the size that non-smoking sections use to be 20 years ago. The owner is taking steps on his/her own because he/she does not believe the government should have the right to ban smoking. It should be the business owner’s decision and he/she is deciding to ban it in his/her restaurants. Smoking will still be allowed outdoors on the patio.
The owner of the Red Mesa Restaurant in Traverse City, MI and Pearl's Restaurant in Elk Rapids, MI say non-smokers comprise 80% of business. The smoking sections are the size that non-smoking sections use to be 20 years ago. The owner is taking steps on his/her own because he/she does not believe the government should have the right to ban smoking. It should be the business owner’s decision and he/she is deciding to ban it in his/her restaurants. Smoking will still be allowed outdoors on the patio.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Our family blog
If you would like know about our family you can go here. You can also see pic of both or our kids there.
www.therathefamily.blogspot.com
www.therathefamily.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Pics of baby.
Baby Christopher was born May 20th at 8:10 p.m.
The first pic is him just born in the nursery. The second is him and mommy together. The thrid pic is big sister holding him.
Red plan.
Most people know that I am against the red plan. I don't know however if there is a time or not concede that the plan is just going to get stuffed down our throats. I don't think that time has come however I also am not sure that it was time to do this either. A group is suing the city over the planning commission decision to not hold an environmental study.
Now I do think there is environmental issues in this case however I don't think the city can do much about it. The fact is the school district needs to be held responsible for this. To push try to push another form of Government into this is not right.
Now I do think there is environmental issues in this case however I don't think the city can do much about it. The fact is the school district needs to be held responsible for this. To push try to push another form of Government into this is not right.
Tom Bakk for Governor?
Tom Bakk a DFLer from Cook has filed an intent to run for Governor. Bakk said it is just an exploratory committee. Bakk said he will make a final decision at the convention. Bakk a long time senator from Cook in the northern part of the State.
Bakk is the second DFL candidate to announce his intent to run for Governor in the next election. The election is to be held in the year 2010. Should Bakk's finale decision to be to run. I think he would be a good candidate for the party. As many of you know I am not a democrat and don't support many of there candidates however Bakk is some one that maybe I could support. Bakk is a true centrist. Of course Pawlenty would have to not run and the republicans would have to put up a piss poor candidate for that to happen.
Bakk is the second DFL candidate to announce his intent to run for Governor in the next election. The election is to be held in the year 2010. Should Bakk's finale decision to be to run. I think he would be a good candidate for the party. As many of you know I am not a democrat and don't support many of there candidates however Bakk is some one that maybe I could support. Bakk is a true centrist. Of course Pawlenty would have to not run and the republicans would have to put up a piss poor candidate for that to happen.
Couple of post.
I had a couple of post that have not posted. I am hoping they will if not I will have to re post them. I had pics of baby finale and a post about Tom Bakk running for Governor.
Was it a joke?
Prank or not? You may have seen the for sale signs on the site of Duluth Central High School. A group of students did this a joke. The thing is how right could they be? http://duluthpolitics.blogspot.com/2008/04/what-is-going-to-happen-to-duluth.html
I think they are spot on. I would not be shocked one bit if Central is put up for sale and soon.
I think they are spot on. I would not be shocked one bit if Central is put up for sale and soon.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
I know......
There is a ton going on in our city right now. I wish there were more hours in a day. I don't have time to blog much now.
I however have to say did anyone see the Mayor look like he was going to cry last night when the surcharge vote failed. Then he said I hope that you who voted no take responsibility for your vote and come up with a solution. To which councilor Fedora had a great response. I toke responsibility for my vote like those before me did. Tossing the ball right back at the Mayor as the Mayor was on the council for eight years.
On a better note for our Mayor. Last night was the third open meeting he held with the public. as I said before I think this is a great idea. I however hope it is not just special interest group sending people to these open meeting times. The meetings with the Mayor take place the last Tuesday of every month starting at 5pm. You get 5 to 10 minutes to chat with Mayor about any issue you wish to.
I however have to say did anyone see the Mayor look like he was going to cry last night when the surcharge vote failed. Then he said I hope that you who voted no take responsibility for your vote and come up with a solution. To which councilor Fedora had a great response. I toke responsibility for my vote like those before me did. Tossing the ball right back at the Mayor as the Mayor was on the council for eight years.
On a better note for our Mayor. Last night was the third open meeting he held with the public. as I said before I think this is a great idea. I however hope it is not just special interest group sending people to these open meeting times. The meetings with the Mayor take place the last Tuesday of every month starting at 5pm. You get 5 to 10 minutes to chat with Mayor about any issue you wish to.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Sign of things to come?
This is from Flash who runs a blog that I love to go to. He and I don't agree most of the time this one however I think we do. Flash has a blog called centrisity you can view it at http://centrisity.blogspot.com/
Here is his post:
Smoking Victim
Grandma's Saloon and Eatery, on the West Bank's Seven Corners is closing its doors. This popular hangout has endured most everything the economy has thrown at it, but the smoking ban on top of the other factors was too much.
Brian Daugherty, Grandma's general manager, said he opted out of the lease after being "legislated out of business." He blamed a host of laws -- a 2005 bill that doesn't allow tips to be counted as part of the minimum wage, the smoking ban, the 21-year-old drinking age and lower limits on blood-alcohol levels -- for a drop in business and rising expenses.
I haven't had a cigarette in over 6 months, but that hasn't changed my view of the rights of a private business to allow the use of legal products in their establishments.
Flash
My thought is this a sign of things to come for the Grandmas chain. Will we see any effects to our Duluth restaurants? Grandmas has been a staple in Duluth for many years and I would hate to see any of there establishments go out of business because of bills passed by our State legislators
Well many other items factor into the closing the smoking ban is the biggest hit to the business many say. You may have noticed in Duluth many places are not as busy as they were before the smoking ban. I know I have noticed it. Regardless of any report done I ask you talk to owners at there own business.
I had a conversation with an owner of a chines restaurant yesterday she was pissed about the new sales tax increase to Duluth restaurants because of the DECC expansion. The first words out of her mouth were on top of the smoking ban how do they expect us to make a living?
The owner expects to take another small hit because of the sales tax increase. She said down 40% sense the smoking ban took effect. Any small hit may make them close there doors.
If a big chain can't make it how can small mom and pop restaurants make it?
Here is his post:
Smoking Victim
Grandma's Saloon and Eatery, on the West Bank's Seven Corners is closing its doors. This popular hangout has endured most everything the economy has thrown at it, but the smoking ban on top of the other factors was too much.
Brian Daugherty, Grandma's general manager, said he opted out of the lease after being "legislated out of business." He blamed a host of laws -- a 2005 bill that doesn't allow tips to be counted as part of the minimum wage, the smoking ban, the 21-year-old drinking age and lower limits on blood-alcohol levels -- for a drop in business and rising expenses.
I haven't had a cigarette in over 6 months, but that hasn't changed my view of the rights of a private business to allow the use of legal products in their establishments.
Flash
My thought is this a sign of things to come for the Grandmas chain. Will we see any effects to our Duluth restaurants? Grandmas has been a staple in Duluth for many years and I would hate to see any of there establishments go out of business because of bills passed by our State legislators
Well many other items factor into the closing the smoking ban is the biggest hit to the business many say. You may have noticed in Duluth many places are not as busy as they were before the smoking ban. I know I have noticed it. Regardless of any report done I ask you talk to owners at there own business.
I had a conversation with an owner of a chines restaurant yesterday she was pissed about the new sales tax increase to Duluth restaurants because of the DECC expansion. The first words out of her mouth were on top of the smoking ban how do they expect us to make a living?
The owner expects to take another small hit because of the sales tax increase. She said down 40% sense the smoking ban took effect. Any small hit may make them close there doors.
If a big chain can't make it how can small mom and pop restaurants make it?
Life House prom night.
The Life House an outreach program for teens and young adults is having the prom night. Many of the items were donated by a local church and also business.
This is a good opportunity for some to get dressed up and have a great night. Many of these kids would not other wise have the chance. At least that is what they say.
This is a good opportunity for some to get dressed up and have a great night. Many of these kids would not other wise have the chance. At least that is what they say.
Baby update #2
Well mommy and baby are still at the hospital. They should come home either today or tomorrow.
Baby has been freaking out in the nursery when we put him back there. It seems like he just wants to be with mommy and daddy and mostly mommy. After all mommy has the food.
Other then that not much is going at this point.
Baby has been freaking out in the nursery when we put him back there. It seems like he just wants to be with mommy and daddy and mostly mommy. After all mommy has the food.
Other then that not much is going at this point.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Dog park
As many of you know the city wants to have some areas for dogs to be unleashed. I don't think this is a good idea the city is setting them self up for major trouble.
I hate to say it but many people just are not responsible pet owners. I could point to many cases that this is the case. My uncle who is a responsible owner has seen hundreds of cases of non-responsible owners in Duluth. I have as well. The unleashed dog parks set the city up for lawsuit after lawsuit. what happens if the dog bites another dog or a child or any person. What happens if a dog gets hurt by just running around the park? What if a dog kills a child? Possible lawsuits go on and on and on.
Plus why are we talking about dog parks when the city has major issues in front of them? We need to get our priority's straight.
I hate to say it but many people just are not responsible pet owners. I could point to many cases that this is the case. My uncle who is a responsible owner has seen hundreds of cases of non-responsible owners in Duluth. I have as well. The unleashed dog parks set the city up for lawsuit after lawsuit. what happens if the dog bites another dog or a child or any person. What happens if a dog gets hurt by just running around the park? What if a dog kills a child? Possible lawsuits go on and on and on.
Plus why are we talking about dog parks when the city has major issues in front of them? We need to get our priority's straight.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Baby update #1
Baby is healthy and the nuese said she sleept well last night. He is so cute as I said I will get pics up ASAP.
Today will be busy with family and friends coming to vistit.
I know I said you may not get anything but baby updates but I do have a few other thoughts I hope to get up tonight. check back.
Today will be busy with family and friends coming to vistit.
I know I said you may not get anything but baby updates but I do have a few other thoughts I hope to get up tonight. check back.
Baby is here
As many of you know my wife and I were expecting our second child. Today my wife came in about 8am or so because her water broke. she was in labor all day then at about 7:30 this evening she had stopped progressing. The doctor said she had to have a c-section same as our first child.
The baby came at 8:10p.m. and wieghts 8lbs 13 oz and is 22 inches long. We could not be happier parents at this point.
I am at the hospital so I can't put up any pics but as soon as I can I will.
Christopher John Rathe was born at 8:10p.m.
The baby came at 8:10p.m. and wieghts 8lbs 13 oz and is 22 inches long. We could not be happier parents at this point.
I am at the hospital so I can't put up any pics but as soon as I can I will.
Christopher John Rathe was born at 8:10p.m.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
This week will be slow. And Baby info.
I am sorry about the last two weeks and not many post however with expecint a new baby that has taken my time.
In fact I am in the hospital now as my wife is in labor and we expect to hhave baby soon. You may only get baby updates the rest of this week. This weekend I am out of town.
Normal blogging will begin again next week.
In fact I am in the hospital now as my wife is in labor and we expect to hhave baby soon. You may only get baby updates the rest of this week. This weekend I am out of town.
Normal blogging will begin again next week.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Edwards backs Obama
In an effort lead by chair of the DNC Howard Dean former candidate John Edwards endorses Osama, I mean Obama.
In an effort to unite the party John Edwards endorsed Obama. The endorsement was a big one for the Obama camp as Edwards has had support from the groups that Obama has not. White women tops among them.
It will be interesting to see if this brings an end to the Clinton campaign, I don't think it will.
In an effort to unite the party John Edwards endorsed Obama. The endorsement was a big one for the Obama camp as Edwards has had support from the groups that Obama has not. White women tops among them.
It will be interesting to see if this brings an end to the Clinton campaign, I don't think it will.
more to come tonight
There has not been a lot this week but there are a couple of things I want to bring up here. Some new and some old so check back tonght.
OH BOY!!!!!
I am so excited all the the Bob Dylan Way signs are up in Duluth. That is great news because you know Duluth has nothing to worry about as long as we take care of Bob Dylan.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Street more importain then skywalk?
Duluth Mayor Don Ness said earlier this week that our streets were a bigger issue then a sky walk. He hopes that there will in the future be money for the sky walk. He said however if the sky walk was funded by the street improvement fund he could not support it.
Well I could not agree with him more. Our streets are a mess and need priority over any sky walk. In fact we need to stop using the street improvement fund for every things but streets. The city use to fix 6 miles of street a year. This year we are doing just over a mile. This is because of funding.
Well I could not agree with him more. Our streets are a mess and need priority over any sky walk. In fact we need to stop using the street improvement fund for every things but streets. The city use to fix 6 miles of street a year. This year we are doing just over a mile. This is because of funding.
Monday, May 05, 2008
No baby today.
Well the baby was not born today. The good news is my wife's issues had been resolved at least for mean time.
New baby today?
As most you know my wife and I are expecting our second child. The baby may come today. It would be a little less then three weeks before the due date. I will keep you updated.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Say What?
Barb Olsen the president of progressive action had this to say about County Attorney Ford. This was because Ford was a keynote speaker at one of there events.
“Melanie Ford has shown incredible strength and tenacity in her first 15 months in office,” Olsen commented. “We look forward to hearing from Ms. Ford about what she believes are the biggest issues facing St. Louis County today and facing her as well as the county’s top legal voice.”
The only thing that Ford has done sense winning is be on a witch hunt. That maybe what this group wanted however. Ms. Ford has been nothing but a puppet to special interest groups and last I checked that was not what the county's top legal adviser is to do.
This event already went on and it would have been interesting to hear what was said.
“Melanie Ford has shown incredible strength and tenacity in her first 15 months in office,” Olsen commented. “We look forward to hearing from Ms. Ford about what she believes are the biggest issues facing St. Louis County today and facing her as well as the county’s top legal voice.”
The only thing that Ford has done sense winning is be on a witch hunt. That maybe what this group wanted however. Ms. Ford has been nothing but a puppet to special interest groups and last I checked that was not what the county's top legal adviser is to do.
This event already went on and it would have been interesting to hear what was said.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Did the council break the law.
When I talked to an attorney today it was there thought that it is very possible the law was broke. They said at first look this seemed to be a clear cut case and the law was in fact broke. The attorney said that now the council lead by council President Reinert are looking to cover there steps.
This attorney also said it is sad because he was a democrat and thinks that those involved now are in huge trouble. His thoughts were that those involved in the weekend meeting did in fact have a plan. As far as discussion at the meeting Monday it was to make the perception that there was no set plan.
This was a discussion with an attorney I had earlier today. DP has as few things set up on this issue. Check back for more on this issue and more.
This attorney also said it is sad because he was a democrat and thinks that those involved now are in huge trouble. His thoughts were that those involved in the weekend meeting did in fact have a plan. As far as discussion at the meeting Monday it was to make the perception that there was no set plan.
This was a discussion with an attorney I had earlier today. DP has as few things set up on this issue. Check back for more on this issue and more.
DP was looking into this now the DNT has a story about it.
We here at Duluth Politics were looking into if the law had been broken by members of the Duluth City Council. As many of you know the council offer the weekend had meet about the rental property issue and what could be done about it.
As information about this was coming out issues of the open meeting law were coming up. We here at DP are investigating this but it seems the Duluth News Tribune staff has beat us to the punch. What do expect when the have a much bigger staff lol. We here at DP have three people and they have a lot. Joking a side this is a big issue.
We will continue to do the research and have more later but you can the story in todays Duluth News Tribune. www.duluthnewstribune.com
As information about this was coming out issues of the open meeting law were coming up. We here at DP are investigating this but it seems the Duluth News Tribune staff has beat us to the punch. What do expect when the have a much bigger staff lol. We here at DP have three people and they have a lot. Joking a side this is a big issue.
We will continue to do the research and have more later but you can the story in todays Duluth News Tribune. www.duluthnewstribune.com
Monday, April 28, 2008
Clinton or Obama must drop out by June.
The DNC chair Howard Dean said one one of the two candidates must drop out of the presidential race by June. He said this needs to happen because if it does not then the party will be able to unite. If they are not united they will not defeat the right man for the job John McCain. McCain is the republican nominee. McCain has had the party endorsement wrapped up for a while now.
Dean is now the chair of the democratic national committee. Dean of course is famous for a melt down and scream in the last presidential campaign. Dean did not say who should drop out of the race but it is clear who he wants to drop out of the race. He always offers Clinton's name first and it is clear that is who he wants to drop out. All you have to do is listen to him in almost any interview. Dean who was the front runner in the beginning four years ago should understand how hard it is to be a front runner. Yet it seems he does not care about what Clinton's problems are much like he had.
Dean is now the chair of the democratic national committee. Dean of course is famous for a melt down and scream in the last presidential campaign. Dean did not say who should drop out of the race but it is clear who he wants to drop out of the race. He always offers Clinton's name first and it is clear that is who he wants to drop out. All you have to do is listen to him in almost any interview. Dean who was the front runner in the beginning four years ago should understand how hard it is to be a front runner. Yet it seems he does not care about what Clinton's problems are much like he had.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Do you think gas is high enough?
I know this video has been on you tube for a bit now. I however thought it is still good to keep out there. It seems that a U.S. Senate candidate here in Minnesota supports at 10 cent gas increase.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtBHVNlk--g
It seems like this candidate who has a lot of money more then most will ever see is completely out of touch on taxes. Not just a gas tax but all taxes. He would support an increase any time he was given a chance.
A gas increase tax would not only affect Minnesota but it would hurt this whole country. It takes money out of peoples pocket. This candidates party has an agenda. The agenda is not a positive one for this State or Country. Al Franken and the DFL is not looking out for us.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtBHVNlk--g
It seems like this candidate who has a lot of money more then most will ever see is completely out of touch on taxes. Not just a gas tax but all taxes. He would support an increase any time he was given a chance.
A gas increase tax would not only affect Minnesota but it would hurt this whole country. It takes money out of peoples pocket. This candidates party has an agenda. The agenda is not a positive one for this State or Country. Al Franken and the DFL is not looking out for us.
Clinton gives Obama chance to debate with out moderators.
You may recall the whining done by Obama, his campaign and supporters about the last debate they had with Hillary Clinton. They should it was not fair to them. Why because they did not get softball question like they normally do from the media. This however was the case for both candidates.
Yet the only ones that whinnied like little babies was the Obama camp. They cried little punks that just got there ass kicked. Now Clinton has given the chance to debate with out moderators to Obama. If the cry baby team excepts this then the debate would be the candidates asking each other the questions.
Clinton who is urging for another debate before the next primary said this would clear any chance of a negative media backlash. I don't agree much with Clinton but I think this would be a great idea. I hope it happens but I don't think it will. The Obama camp does not want to debate her on any level. They are exposed when they do debate.
Yet the only ones that whinnied like little babies was the Obama camp. They cried little punks that just got there ass kicked. Now Clinton has given the chance to debate with out moderators to Obama. If the cry baby team excepts this then the debate would be the candidates asking each other the questions.
Clinton who is urging for another debate before the next primary said this would clear any chance of a negative media backlash. I don't agree much with Clinton but I think this would be a great idea. I hope it happens but I don't think it will. The Obama camp does not want to debate her on any level. They are exposed when they do debate.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Email updates
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You can rest a sure however no one else will get your email. Meaning you will not receive spam. Your email address will be provide to anyone other then the others that sign up for the updates will see your address. What others do with it is out of our control we are not liable for what others may do. Duluth Politics again will not provide your email to any other party.
Again if you would like updates please send us your email address. Email it to us at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com
If you really really wish to not be in a block email let us know and we will send it out to you personally. Not in the mass email.
You can rest a sure however no one else will get your email. Meaning you will not receive spam. Your email address will be provide to anyone other then the others that sign up for the updates will see your address. What others do with it is out of our control we are not liable for what others may do. Duluth Politics again will not provide your email to any other party.
Again if you would like updates please send us your email address. Email it to us at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com
If you really really wish to not be in a block email let us know and we will send it out to you personally. Not in the mass email.
What is going to happen to Duluth Central?
It seems that Duluth Central High School maybe saved? As many people know the newest school in Duluth is scheduled to be closed under the red plan. Many citizens and community members have voiced concern over this. If central was to stay open it would become a new middle school. It would be the middle school for the western part of town. That makes perfect sense because central is located in the middle of town.
As of now the site is listed on the short list of for possible sites for the middle school. It however does not top the list. It is listed as the second best site, mainly because it is harder to access because of the step hill it is located on said a member of the board that made the presentation to the school board. It also it a bit smaller then one other site.
The fact of the matter is this is all a bunch of BS. I have heard on more then one occasion that the school will be closed and the site will be sold. Not only will it be sold but there could already be a developer and a project planned for it. This latest is just more smoke and mirrors by the district.
The red plan is an outrageous plan that cost far to much. It also closes to many schools and does not accomplish a better education. After all I thought a better education is what our focus was, but is seems like to this school board and administration all they want to is tear the city apart.
As of now the site is listed on the short list of for possible sites for the middle school. It however does not top the list. It is listed as the second best site, mainly because it is harder to access because of the step hill it is located on said a member of the board that made the presentation to the school board. It also it a bit smaller then one other site.
The fact of the matter is this is all a bunch of BS. I have heard on more then one occasion that the school will be closed and the site will be sold. Not only will it be sold but there could already be a developer and a project planned for it. This latest is just more smoke and mirrors by the district.
The red plan is an outrageous plan that cost far to much. It also closes to many schools and does not accomplish a better education. After all I thought a better education is what our focus was, but is seems like to this school board and administration all they want to is tear the city apart.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Why is there a group against or at least sounds like they are against c-sections?
Okay this is not really political, well I guess depending on how you look at it anyway. It could be political.
I saw this post on http://www.perfectduluthday.com/ and thought well this is odd, at least to me it is.
Here is the post:
Birth Stories
ICAN of the Northland meets this Sunday, 4/27, at 3:30 p.m.Duluth Seventh-day Adventist Church3210 Decker Road (just above Piedmont)The topic is Birth Stories.
The mission of ICAN (the International Cesarean Awareness Network) is to improve maternal-child health by reducing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting VBAC.
My question is this, why is there a group against or at least seems to be against c-sections? My wife had a c-section with our daughter. It was not by chose, but she was not progressing and had very high blood pressure. The c-section however went well and as far as I know she had not problems with it. So anyway just a question does anyone have a response?
I was going to ask at perfect day but every time I clicked the comment button I got this page in stead http://templates.doteasy.com/ErrorPages/error404/.
I saw this post on http://www.perfectduluthday.com/ and thought well this is odd, at least to me it is.
Here is the post:
Birth Stories
ICAN of the Northland meets this Sunday, 4/27, at 3:30 p.m.Duluth Seventh-day Adventist Church3210 Decker Road (just above Piedmont)The topic is Birth Stories.
The mission of ICAN (the International Cesarean Awareness Network) is to improve maternal-child health by reducing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting VBAC.
My question is this, why is there a group against or at least seems to be against c-sections? My wife had a c-section with our daughter. It was not by chose, but she was not progressing and had very high blood pressure. The c-section however went well and as far as I know she had not problems with it. So anyway just a question does anyone have a response?
I was going to ask at perfect day but every time I clicked the comment button I got this page in stead http://templates.doteasy.com/ErrorPages/error404/.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Why the attack on rental property?
There has always been a discussion about rental property's in Duluth. The discussion over the last few years however has been more an attack instead of a discussion of ideas. The attack many times has come about in the wrong way I feel as well.
By the way I have lived in the district mostly affected most of my live. I have seen areas of town go from family's to rentals and I have seen many positives and negatives with the changes. As some one who grew up living in the East Hillside and then moving to the Central Hillside and back to the area I grew up I understand the events that have happened.
The discussion many years ago was how to integrate the students in to the city, now the discussion seems to be how do we get the students out of here. You hear every politician that runs for Mayor or council say we need to keep the students here, yet they don't practice what they say. When it comes to rentals and students that rent the property's.
Now the discussion has changed to an attack on both rental property and students. Today the talk revolves around what can we do to make our areas less friendly to those tiring to make a living and those going to school. Not only that but those that are on fixed incomes and those looking to start a family.
Duluth has put a limit on how many rentals can be in an area one per every 300 feet. That is about one every block or so. The thing is it does not affect the exciting rentals. There for it is a worth-less ordinance and needs to be repealed. The council also wanted to a moratorium on rentals for one year in an area of town so they could discuss what to do about the problem.
The discussion is all negative about students, party's, noise ect.... the fact is with out collage students Duluth would be in worse shape then we are. I will give you there are bad students however there are bad adults, kids and family's. I have seen more issues with families then I have students. We have focused on the student accept way to long, we need to move passed it. We need to look for real ways to solve this issue. Passing the buck is not the way to do it.
Fact is we all use rentals, Students, single mom's or dad's, seniors, middle-aged. It does not matter.
I will post some ideas I have on how to work on this issue soon. In the mean time if you want to offer your thoughts on the rental property issue go for it.
By the way I have lived in the district mostly affected most of my live. I have seen areas of town go from family's to rentals and I have seen many positives and negatives with the changes. As some one who grew up living in the East Hillside and then moving to the Central Hillside and back to the area I grew up I understand the events that have happened.
The discussion many years ago was how to integrate the students in to the city, now the discussion seems to be how do we get the students out of here. You hear every politician that runs for Mayor or council say we need to keep the students here, yet they don't practice what they say. When it comes to rentals and students that rent the property's.
Now the discussion has changed to an attack on both rental property and students. Today the talk revolves around what can we do to make our areas less friendly to those tiring to make a living and those going to school. Not only that but those that are on fixed incomes and those looking to start a family.
Duluth has put a limit on how many rentals can be in an area one per every 300 feet. That is about one every block or so. The thing is it does not affect the exciting rentals. There for it is a worth-less ordinance and needs to be repealed. The council also wanted to a moratorium on rentals for one year in an area of town so they could discuss what to do about the problem.
The discussion is all negative about students, party's, noise ect.... the fact is with out collage students Duluth would be in worse shape then we are. I will give you there are bad students however there are bad adults, kids and family's. I have seen more issues with families then I have students. We have focused on the student accept way to long, we need to move passed it. We need to look for real ways to solve this issue. Passing the buck is not the way to do it.
Fact is we all use rentals, Students, single mom's or dad's, seniors, middle-aged. It does not matter.
I will post some ideas I have on how to work on this issue soon. In the mean time if you want to offer your thoughts on the rental property issue go for it.
So much going on so little time.
Please keep checking back to the blog. Right now there is a lot on my mind and there is so much happening in Duluth and surrounding areas. There just is not enough time to post.
Just a reminder that there will always be at least two post per week. More when I can also I hope with the addition of Garbon and Mommy one that will help as well. I think we average more then two post a week more offend then not.
Just a reminder that there will always be at least two post per week. More when I can also I hope with the addition of Garbon and Mommy one that will help as well. I think we average more then two post a week more offend then not.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Wind Power Renewable Energy in Minnesota and Michigan
"They stand like giant white pinwheels on the horizon, 32 of them towering 40 stories over the flat farmland", wrote Mark Hornbeck / Detroit News Lansing Bureau. John Deere Wind Energy invested $100 million in The Harvest Wind Farm located 10 miles from Saginaw Bay in Michigan. This "Farm" has the ability to generate 52.8 megawatts of electricity when the wind is blowing. The energy generated will be used to power 15,000 homes. Gov. Granholm promises to provide 10 percent of the states power by renewable sources over the next 7 years. It is estimated that the state will increase wind powered electricity by 2,150 megawatts over the next 7 years. The power will be provided by 1,300 wind mills. This is the equivalent of 3 coal burning power plants.
Similar to Michigan, the State of Minnesota has prime land space for wind power. The North Shore of Lake Superior is mostly uninhabited. As everyone is aware, Duluth is built on a hill. In fact most of the North Shore is high, steep, rocky hills. There is already a large concentration of television, radio, and other communication towers in Duluth. Why not add a few windmills? If people are concerned about the look of a windmill, why not build them along the north shore? Winds coming off the lake are clean and stronger than winds inland.
According to Skip Pruss, Michigan Renewable Energy Advisor, there is a great potential for Windmills to be build offshore, in the waters of the Great Lakes. Funny enough, officials don't want to put windmills in Lake Michigan because of "tourism" but favor Lake Superior instead. Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario all share Lake Superior. Boating along the northern shore of Lake Superior is very limited. This is an opportunity for Minnesota, especially Duluth. Duluth has been one of the Great Lakes Primary windmill importers and exporters (yes, we still do manufacturing in America).
I advocate for Nuclear power along with cleaner coal burning plans. Coal burning plants take up less space than wind farms, provide more dependable service (you never know when the wind will blow, how strong it will blow, or how long), and the US has tons and tons and tons of coal! However, it is smart to diversify. Along with that people are pushing "green". Why not embrace it?
Similar to Michigan, the State of Minnesota has prime land space for wind power. The North Shore of Lake Superior is mostly uninhabited. As everyone is aware, Duluth is built on a hill. In fact most of the North Shore is high, steep, rocky hills. There is already a large concentration of television, radio, and other communication towers in Duluth. Why not add a few windmills? If people are concerned about the look of a windmill, why not build them along the north shore? Winds coming off the lake are clean and stronger than winds inland.
According to Skip Pruss, Michigan Renewable Energy Advisor, there is a great potential for Windmills to be build offshore, in the waters of the Great Lakes. Funny enough, officials don't want to put windmills in Lake Michigan because of "tourism" but favor Lake Superior instead. Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario all share Lake Superior. Boating along the northern shore of Lake Superior is very limited. This is an opportunity for Minnesota, especially Duluth. Duluth has been one of the Great Lakes Primary windmill importers and exporters (yes, we still do manufacturing in America).
I advocate for Nuclear power along with cleaner coal burning plans. Coal burning plants take up less space than wind farms, provide more dependable service (you never know when the wind will blow, how strong it will blow, or how long), and the US has tons and tons and tons of coal! However, it is smart to diversify. Along with that people are pushing "green". Why not embrace it?
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Republicans worse then Democrates?
A blog that I like to read had a post up yesterday were the blog host complained that the republicans are the of doom and gloom and they are the driving the country down the toilet. The blog is one of my daily reads http://centrisity.blogspot.com/.
Now Flash's blog is called centrisity and he claims to a centrists however he is far from it all you have to do is read his blog and you will get a read that his blog represents the far left. He uses there talking point.
Flash the fact is I would bet that I am more in the center they you are. I would love the opportunity to sit down and chat with Flash some day. I grew up a democrat I saw there error of there ways when I was in Jr. High School and started to change party's. Well in high school I voted for both Democrats and Republicans. I have always voted for the person over the party. In recent years however I have not voted for any Democrats on a national level.
What Flash said on his blog will be in " " and in red writing.
"Now, the Republicans are going to on one hand, campaign on more of the same, but the other, whine that Bush isn't running again and all the Dems are doing is running against someone who isn't on the ballot."
Fact of the matter is if you listen to Obama and even Clinton. all they talk about is President Bush. You and many of your friends will say that is nothing but the same. The only different is the name. That is far from True.
John McCain unlike president Bush appeals to many. People on both sides of the aisle and most importianly he appeals to the truly in depend voters. A lot of President Bush's support came from the right. McCain's will come from all over. A majority of it is going to be republicans yes. After all that is the party he is running under, he will however take a large chunk of those that are in the middle. These voters will be Democrats and Republicans that I believe represent the majority of Americans the centrist.
McCain will not represent every thing the republicans want in a candidate. He does not even represent all of what I want but he was my first chose all a long. There are many things that McCain has supported that I don't. We have all heard most of them I don't need to list them. These are also things that most of the republicans did not support and President Bush did not or would not have had he been in office at the time. NO McCain is not President Bush, No he does not represent the far right or any special interest group. This is why many like him, even thoughts that are part of the far right.
By the way I hate the use of the far right and left but that is the terms damned and used most offend. Many times a person get labeled and it is a wrong label but you can't shake it. The fact is we need to start looking at all candidates as an indavigrial and for there own stands on things. Then make up our mind on who we are going to support. I have supported the idea of getting rid of party's all together. I don't like our current system of politics and getting rid of party's would make a huge stride in improving our country.
" Following 8 years of peace and prosperity we now face war and economic tumult."
President Clinton wanted to spend 7 Billion dollars on a "star wars" defence program. Why instead of going to war in Iraq he chose to try to fund a failed defence system. Yet he knew Iraq was a threat not only to us but the world. We are a safer country and world with our Saddam. We will also be safer once things get settled in Iraq. We had every right to go to war with Iraq. Republicans are not war mongers we are realist. When every thing else fails there comes a time military action needs to be taken. Am I a huge fan of this or any war no. Any way I got a bit off topic will get back on here.
President Clinton lead us into wars as well. We have no fewer allies now then we did 8 years ago. The fact is every one wants us to be there defender yet when we take action our own country can't back the troops. The fact is troops feel let down by many U. S. citizens.
The country when lead by Clinton was in horrible economic shape. The stock market struggled. I am better off financial with President Bush then I ever was with Clinton. The tax and spend democrat took your money at least a few republicans and President Bush want to help with tax breaks and refunds. We should get refunds every year there is not reason for the money this country spends. Both the democrats and republicans are at fault for that.
That is it for now but I might have more later. You can read Flash's post here http://centrisity.blogspot.com/. The title of the post I am referring to is this,Going Down Down Down .
Now Flash's blog is called centrisity and he claims to a centrists however he is far from it all you have to do is read his blog and you will get a read that his blog represents the far left. He uses there talking point.
Flash the fact is I would bet that I am more in the center they you are. I would love the opportunity to sit down and chat with Flash some day. I grew up a democrat I saw there error of there ways when I was in Jr. High School and started to change party's. Well in high school I voted for both Democrats and Republicans. I have always voted for the person over the party. In recent years however I have not voted for any Democrats on a national level.
What Flash said on his blog will be in " " and in red writing.
"Now, the Republicans are going to on one hand, campaign on more of the same, but the other, whine that Bush isn't running again and all the Dems are doing is running against someone who isn't on the ballot."
Fact of the matter is if you listen to Obama and even Clinton. all they talk about is President Bush. You and many of your friends will say that is nothing but the same. The only different is the name. That is far from True.
John McCain unlike president Bush appeals to many. People on both sides of the aisle and most importianly he appeals to the truly in depend voters. A lot of President Bush's support came from the right. McCain's will come from all over. A majority of it is going to be republicans yes. After all that is the party he is running under, he will however take a large chunk of those that are in the middle. These voters will be Democrats and Republicans that I believe represent the majority of Americans the centrist.
McCain will not represent every thing the republicans want in a candidate. He does not even represent all of what I want but he was my first chose all a long. There are many things that McCain has supported that I don't. We have all heard most of them I don't need to list them. These are also things that most of the republicans did not support and President Bush did not or would not have had he been in office at the time. NO McCain is not President Bush, No he does not represent the far right or any special interest group. This is why many like him, even thoughts that are part of the far right.
By the way I hate the use of the far right and left but that is the terms damned and used most offend. Many times a person get labeled and it is a wrong label but you can't shake it. The fact is we need to start looking at all candidates as an indavigrial and for there own stands on things. Then make up our mind on who we are going to support. I have supported the idea of getting rid of party's all together. I don't like our current system of politics and getting rid of party's would make a huge stride in improving our country.
" Following 8 years of peace and prosperity we now face war and economic tumult."
President Clinton wanted to spend 7 Billion dollars on a "star wars" defence program. Why instead of going to war in Iraq he chose to try to fund a failed defence system. Yet he knew Iraq was a threat not only to us but the world. We are a safer country and world with our Saddam. We will also be safer once things get settled in Iraq. We had every right to go to war with Iraq. Republicans are not war mongers we are realist. When every thing else fails there comes a time military action needs to be taken. Am I a huge fan of this or any war no. Any way I got a bit off topic will get back on here.
President Clinton lead us into wars as well. We have no fewer allies now then we did 8 years ago. The fact is every one wants us to be there defender yet when we take action our own country can't back the troops. The fact is troops feel let down by many U. S. citizens.
The country when lead by Clinton was in horrible economic shape. The stock market struggled. I am better off financial with President Bush then I ever was with Clinton. The tax and spend democrat took your money at least a few republicans and President Bush want to help with tax breaks and refunds. We should get refunds every year there is not reason for the money this country spends. Both the democrats and republicans are at fault for that.
That is it for now but I might have more later. You can read Flash's post here http://centrisity.blogspot.com/. The title of the post I am referring to is this,Going Down Down Down .
Don't we pay taxes?
It seems like the City of Duluth and it's leaders at least some of them want us to pay more for our roads. One councilor is bringing up when the assessment comes to those that live on the street being fixed, they should pay more then the 25%.
Councilor Stauber said he believes that when assessed citizens should pay more then 25%. He said that some city's don't pay anything and citizens pay it all. This is a hard argument for me to follow as a citizen of Duluth. We pay so much in taxes now and get little for what we pay.
The police are underfunded and we don't have enough cops to police our streets. As crime increases. Our streets are falling apart before our eyes. Main of our streets are worse then wagon trails were. Our infrastructure is one of the oldest in the country.
We pay city taxes for what reason?
Councilor Stauber said he believes that when assessed citizens should pay more then 25%. He said that some city's don't pay anything and citizens pay it all. This is a hard argument for me to follow as a citizen of Duluth. We pay so much in taxes now and get little for what we pay.
The police are underfunded and we don't have enough cops to police our streets. As crime increases. Our streets are falling apart before our eyes. Main of our streets are worse then wagon trails were. Our infrastructure is one of the oldest in the country.
We pay city taxes for what reason?
check back tonight.
Lots going on. I will be posting tonight and maybe some this afternoon. Tonight however is blog night here. Check us out later.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Combative city.
The Duluth City Council voted to uphold the city's decision to fight a local business over it's air space last night. The vote was 7-1 with councilor Jim Stauber being the only no vote.
The city and the councilors believe that we should go to court over air space that was part of the Voyaguer motel. The city used eminent domain over a parking lot that was owned by the motel. It is now were the parking ramp sites for the SMDC 1st street building.
A court told the city they had to pay 545,600 to the owners of the voyageur motel. This let to a discussion in the city and in that lead to the vote last night. The council apparently agrees with the city officials that is should fight this ruling. The city did make an offer to the owners of just over 100,000 for the space at one time. They declined that offer as they did not feel it to be adequate to the space they would be giving up.
I tend to agree with the owners of the motel and I don't believe the city should fight the decision of the court. Yes we are in hard times but we can't allow our city to be combative to business's that want to operate here.
Our city is already known for it's hard stands against business, it at least has that perception. I think you can argue both ways on this. Yet when we chose to fight common sense decision the
city is at fault. It is clear that just over 100,000 would not be a fair compensation to the owners of the motel. They lost space with would case lose of business. The city needs to very careful when they move on projects. Yes many projects are good, however you need to look at what effects it will have on other business's that have been there for many years.
I also don't see any plus in the city fighting the ruling. It only gives a bigger black eye to the city.
The city and the councilors believe that we should go to court over air space that was part of the Voyaguer motel. The city used eminent domain over a parking lot that was owned by the motel. It is now were the parking ramp sites for the SMDC 1st street building.
A court told the city they had to pay 545,600 to the owners of the voyageur motel. This let to a discussion in the city and in that lead to the vote last night. The council apparently agrees with the city officials that is should fight this ruling. The city did make an offer to the owners of just over 100,000 for the space at one time. They declined that offer as they did not feel it to be adequate to the space they would be giving up.
I tend to agree with the owners of the motel and I don't believe the city should fight the decision of the court. Yes we are in hard times but we can't allow our city to be combative to business's that want to operate here.
Our city is already known for it's hard stands against business, it at least has that perception. I think you can argue both ways on this. Yet when we chose to fight common sense decision the
city is at fault. It is clear that just over 100,000 would not be a fair compensation to the owners of the motel. They lost space with would case lose of business. The city needs to very careful when they move on projects. Yes many projects are good, however you need to look at what effects it will have on other business's that have been there for many years.
I also don't see any plus in the city fighting the ruling. It only gives a bigger black eye to the city.
Politically correct move.
Last night Duluth City Councilor Todd Fedora made the right move. He removed his resolution asking that Henry Banks be removed from the planning commission. At least politically it was the right move. It would have been interesting to hear the debate about the issue. As I said before however I am not sure if the council should be removing or taking the act to do so.
I believe that councilor Fedora like many are upset and don't understand why Henry Banks said what he said about councilor Krause and him self. I also believe like many others that councilor Fedora believes that this should be more then just a slap on the wrist to Mr. Banks. I also agree with that.
However the council taking action to remove him from the planning commission would have been a slipper slope and I think he realized. I know that some think councilor Fedora should put this behind him. How do you do that when you are accused of something you are not. You have your own kids asking you questions about it.
I believe that councilor Fedora like many are upset and don't understand why Henry Banks said what he said about councilor Krause and him self. I also believe like many others that councilor Fedora believes that this should be more then just a slap on the wrist to Mr. Banks. I also agree with that.
However the council taking action to remove him from the planning commission would have been a slipper slope and I think he realized. I know that some think councilor Fedora should put this behind him. How do you do that when you are accused of something you are not. You have your own kids asking you questions about it.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Should the city council remove city commisners and boards.
This issue is coming about because the comments of one of the planning commissioners. Henry Banks made some comments after a council agenda meeting. Two councilors had basic questions and then Mr. Banks wrote an email to them both saying that the were racist. He also made some other comments.
Now in general I don't believe that the city council should be voting on removing board members from there positions. The board and commission post are appointed by the Mayor and then approved by the city council. In most cases there is no problem with an appointment.
Now as I said in most cases I think the council should restrain from voting on removing board and commission members. I don't think it sets a good standard because like in many cases I think your are opening the door for many questions to your self. I am not saying this would happen but it could. A councilor could have an issues with a board of commission member and they could ask to remove this person from the board.
This case however is different the issue at hand has to deal directly with two city councilors. It also could have long standing effects on the council members. I think that was the point by Mr. Banks. This case also could have an effect on the entire city council and board and commissioner members. You would hope that people would allow time to cool off before opening up an issue that could cause a problem for the city on more then one level.
At this point I am 50/50 on if the council should vote on this or not.
Now in general I don't believe that the city council should be voting on removing board members from there positions. The board and commission post are appointed by the Mayor and then approved by the city council. In most cases there is no problem with an appointment.
Now as I said in most cases I think the council should restrain from voting on removing board and commission members. I don't think it sets a good standard because like in many cases I think your are opening the door for many questions to your self. I am not saying this would happen but it could. A councilor could have an issues with a board of commission member and they could ask to remove this person from the board.
This case however is different the issue at hand has to deal directly with two city councilors. It also could have long standing effects on the council members. I think that was the point by Mr. Banks. This case also could have an effect on the entire city council and board and commissioner members. You would hope that people would allow time to cool off before opening up an issue that could cause a problem for the city on more then one level.
At this point I am 50/50 on if the council should vote on this or not.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
New poll and post
There is a new poll up . Should the council vote on removing Henry Banks from his board? I know this week post were few but I will have some up soon. I try to post at least twice a week more if I can.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
A bit more about the NIV and what the shipping industry is doing. Will it help?
This comes from the Superior Daily Telegram.
I found it interesting the story does not go into great detail but has some information about keeping the virus that Garbon brought up. This issue interest me and it should interest everyone that has a connection to the Great Lakes. This has huge inpact on our lakes and our shipping industry. What can be done. We need to learn as much as we can about this issue and try to solve it. Here is the link that Garbon gave us, http://duluthpolitics.blogspot.com/2008/04/novirhabdovirus-latest-on-invasive.html.
Is this a possible solution or at least will it help? Any thoughts on this issue?
Great Lakes shippers take steps to halt deadly fish virus spread
The Daily TelegramPublished Tuesday, April 08, 2008
DETROIT (AP) — Great Lakes shippers say they’re taking steps to keep a deadly fish virus from spreading into Lake Superior through ballast water.
The Lake Carriers’ Association said Monday the measures will reduce the threat of viral hemorrhagic septicemia entering the lake or spreading there. The virus has been found in the other Great Lakes and in some inland lakes.
The group says freighters will try to take on ballast water in deep water away from shore and will re-circulate ballast water in their tanks to chop up any fish it may contain.
Wisconsin state fisheries official Mike Staggs says the measures could help but says ballast water still could contribute to the spread of disease and exotic species.
I found it interesting the story does not go into great detail but has some information about keeping the virus that Garbon brought up. This issue interest me and it should interest everyone that has a connection to the Great Lakes. This has huge inpact on our lakes and our shipping industry. What can be done. We need to learn as much as we can about this issue and try to solve it. Here is the link that Garbon gave us, http://duluthpolitics.blogspot.com/2008/04/novirhabdovirus-latest-on-invasive.html.
Is this a possible solution or at least will it help? Any thoughts on this issue?
Great Lakes shippers take steps to halt deadly fish virus spread
The Daily TelegramPublished Tuesday, April 08, 2008
DETROIT (AP) — Great Lakes shippers say they’re taking steps to keep a deadly fish virus from spreading into Lake Superior through ballast water.
The Lake Carriers’ Association said Monday the measures will reduce the threat of viral hemorrhagic septicemia entering the lake or spreading there. The virus has been found in the other Great Lakes and in some inland lakes.
The group says freighters will try to take on ballast water in deep water away from shore and will re-circulate ballast water in their tanks to chop up any fish it may contain.
Wisconsin state fisheries official Mike Staggs says the measures could help but says ballast water still could contribute to the spread of disease and exotic species.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Leatherheads movie a disappointment!!!!!
This is from http://www.yahoo.com/ your thoughts? Did you see the move what did you think of it. I have not seen it yet.
Clooney football comedy drops ball at box officeSunday April 6 3:16 PM ET
George Clooney suffered a bruising tackle at the North American box office on Sunday as his new football comedy "Leatherheads" failed to kick the gambling drama "21" from the top spot.
"Leatherheads" took to the field in second place with estimated ticket sales of $13.5 million for the three days beginning Friday, said its distributor, Universal Pictures.
"21" logged a second weekend at No. 1 with three-day sales of $15.1 million, enjoying a stronger-than-expected hold, said Columbia Pictures.
She said the pre-release tracking looked strong in the film's target demographic of older movie-goers, a group that does not rush out to theaters on opening weekend. More than half of the audience was aged 40 and older, the studio said.
RISKY BET
Clooney, 46, directed and starred in "Leatherheads," a $58 million farce set in the early days of American professional football. He claims he also rewrote much of Duncan Brantley and Rick Reilly's script, which had been languishing for 17 years, introducing its screwball tone. But his request for credit was denied by the Writers Guild of America and he resigned from the union as a voting member in protest.
Critics have savaged the film, particularly the script. According to Rotten Tomatoes (http://www.rottentomatoes.com), a Web site that aggregates reviews, only 36 percent of top critics liked the film.
Despite his fame and fortune, Clooney is a risky box office bet. He was last in theaters with "Michael Clayton," which earned $10.4 million during its first weekend of wide release in October. The acclaimed legal thriller finished with a disappointing $49 million but did pick up seven Oscar nominations. Other films, such as "The Good German," "Intolerable Cruelty" and "Solaris," also stumbled badly.
Clooney's biggest success was with the 2001 caper "Ocean's Eleven" and its two sequels, in which he co-starred with heavyweights like Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Julia Roberts.
"Leatherheads" marks his first mainstream film as a director. His previous efforts were 2002's "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" and 2005's "Good Night, and Good Luck," which found favor with critics and discerning audiences.
His publicist did not return a message seeking comment.
After 10 days, "21" has earned $46.5 million, and should end up in the $70 million range, said Columbia, a unit of Sony Corp. It cost about $35 million to make.
"Nim's Island," released by News Corp's 20th Century Fox, met the studio's expectations. The $37 million movie, based on Wendy Orr's 2002 novel, stars Abigail Breslin as a girl who lives on a remote volcanic paradise.
Also new, at No. 5, was the horror film "The Ruins" with $7.8 million. It was produced by DreamWorks Pictures and released by Paramount Pictures, a unit of Viacom Inc.
Martin Scorsese's much-hyped Rolling Stones concert film "Shine a Light" enjoyed a solid opening in limited release, pulling in $1.5 million from 276 theaters. The movie, drawn from two New York theater shows in 2006, was released by Viacom's Paramount Classics.
(Reporting by Dean Goodman; editing by Bill Trott)
Clooney football comedy drops ball at box officeSunday April 6 3:16 PM ET
George Clooney suffered a bruising tackle at the North American box office on Sunday as his new football comedy "Leatherheads" failed to kick the gambling drama "21" from the top spot.
"Leatherheads" took to the field in second place with estimated ticket sales of $13.5 million for the three days beginning Friday, said its distributor, Universal Pictures.
"21" logged a second weekend at No. 1 with three-day sales of $15.1 million, enjoying a stronger-than-expected hold, said Columbia Pictures.
She said the pre-release tracking looked strong in the film's target demographic of older movie-goers, a group that does not rush out to theaters on opening weekend. More than half of the audience was aged 40 and older, the studio said.
RISKY BET
Clooney, 46, directed and starred in "Leatherheads," a $58 million farce set in the early days of American professional football. He claims he also rewrote much of Duncan Brantley and Rick Reilly's script, which had been languishing for 17 years, introducing its screwball tone. But his request for credit was denied by the Writers Guild of America and he resigned from the union as a voting member in protest.
Critics have savaged the film, particularly the script. According to Rotten Tomatoes (http://www.rottentomatoes.com), a Web site that aggregates reviews, only 36 percent of top critics liked the film.
Despite his fame and fortune, Clooney is a risky box office bet. He was last in theaters with "Michael Clayton," which earned $10.4 million during its first weekend of wide release in October. The acclaimed legal thriller finished with a disappointing $49 million but did pick up seven Oscar nominations. Other films, such as "The Good German," "Intolerable Cruelty" and "Solaris," also stumbled badly.
Clooney's biggest success was with the 2001 caper "Ocean's Eleven" and its two sequels, in which he co-starred with heavyweights like Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Julia Roberts.
"Leatherheads" marks his first mainstream film as a director. His previous efforts were 2002's "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" and 2005's "Good Night, and Good Luck," which found favor with critics and discerning audiences.
His publicist did not return a message seeking comment.
After 10 days, "21" has earned $46.5 million, and should end up in the $70 million range, said Columbia, a unit of Sony Corp. It cost about $35 million to make.
"Nim's Island," released by News Corp's 20th Century Fox, met the studio's expectations. The $37 million movie, based on Wendy Orr's 2002 novel, stars Abigail Breslin as a girl who lives on a remote volcanic paradise.
Also new, at No. 5, was the horror film "The Ruins" with $7.8 million. It was produced by DreamWorks Pictures and released by Paramount Pictures, a unit of Viacom Inc.
Martin Scorsese's much-hyped Rolling Stones concert film "Shine a Light" enjoyed a solid opening in limited release, pulling in $1.5 million from 276 theaters. The movie, drawn from two New York theater shows in 2006, was released by Viacom's Paramount Classics.
(Reporting by Dean Goodman; editing by Bill Trott)
Red plan or not?
I recieved this email from Harry Weltywho blogges here http://www.lincolndemocrat.com//.
If you don't agree with the red plan I would strongly urge you to email the people in this post. There are local State Representatives. You can also call and write them as well. Now is the time to take action. Here is the email. Also check out the let Duluth vote web page. There link is in the email as well.
Our chance of voting on the Red Plan is better than ever . . . if you help!
Let Duluth Vote's petition will be sidetracked to the Minnesota Attorney General for a few weeks so the School Board can ignore it a little while longer. But they can't ignore Mike Jaros' bill, HR 4127, which will force a vote on the Red Plan that counts!
Three local legislators must be contacted to co-sponsor Mike's bill. Call them. Write them. Email them. You have about two weeks. And copy the URL for this page ( http://www.letduluthvote.com/ ) and email it to all your friends. Tell them to do what this page says to do.
Tell these legislators that you want to vote on the Red Plan and tell them why.
Senator Thomas M. Bakk (DFL) District 06 email 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Capitol Building, Room 226St. Paul, MN 55155-1606Capitol office 651.296.8881 (Home 218-666-5041)
Thomas Huntley (DFL) 07A email* 585 State Office Building100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155(651) 296-2228 (Home 724-6568)E-mail: rep.thomas.huntley@house.mn
Senator Yvonne Prettner Solon DFL District 07 email75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Room G-9St. Paul, MN 55155-1606Telephone: 651.296.4188 (Home 727-3997)contact Prettner's assistant. Legislative AssistantMarnie Burau Keslermarnie.burau@senate.mn(651) 296-4188
And consider thanking Mary Murphy for joining Mike Jaros: (Mike doesn't need our email)
Mary Murphy (DFL) 06B email* 343 State Office Building100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155(651) 296-2676 (800) 890-5428 (Home 729-6399)
Also: Be sure to bring all your friends to speak or back up speakers at the next School Board meeting in Old Central at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, April 15th.
Enter here for more information about Let Duluth Vote and the Red Plan
You can find this page at: http://www.letduluthvote.com/
If you don't agree with the red plan I would strongly urge you to email the people in this post. There are local State Representatives. You can also call and write them as well. Now is the time to take action. Here is the email. Also check out the let Duluth vote web page. There link is in the email as well.
Our chance of voting on the Red Plan is better than ever . . . if you help!
Let Duluth Vote's petition will be sidetracked to the Minnesota Attorney General for a few weeks so the School Board can ignore it a little while longer. But they can't ignore Mike Jaros' bill, HR 4127, which will force a vote on the Red Plan that counts!
Three local legislators must be contacted to co-sponsor Mike's bill. Call them. Write them. Email them. You have about two weeks. And copy the URL for this page ( http://www.letduluthvote.com/ ) and email it to all your friends. Tell them to do what this page says to do.
Tell these legislators that you want to vote on the Red Plan and tell them why.
Senator Thomas M. Bakk (DFL) District 06 email 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Capitol Building, Room 226St. Paul, MN 55155-1606Capitol office 651.296.8881 (Home 218-666-5041)
Thomas Huntley (DFL) 07A email* 585 State Office Building100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155(651) 296-2228 (Home 724-6568)E-mail: rep.thomas.huntley@house.mn
Senator Yvonne Prettner Solon DFL District 07 email75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Room G-9St. Paul, MN 55155-1606Telephone: 651.296.4188 (Home 727-3997)contact Prettner's assistant. Legislative AssistantMarnie Burau Keslermarnie.burau@senate.mn(651) 296-4188
And consider thanking Mary Murphy for joining Mike Jaros: (Mike doesn't need our email)
Mary Murphy (DFL) 06B email* 343 State Office Building100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155(651) 296-2676 (800) 890-5428 (Home 729-6399)
Also: Be sure to bring all your friends to speak or back up speakers at the next School Board meeting in Old Central at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, April 15th.
Enter here for more information about Let Duluth Vote and the Red Plan
You can find this page at: http://www.letduluthvote.com/
This story stinks.
This is a story from the Duluth News Tribune, http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/articles/index.cfm?id=63888§ion=homepage. It deals with how this administrations wants to start to fix the sewer system.
I will have more on this later in fact it maybe a few days. I am going to do some research on this. I command the Mayor for looking at oppositions but I think there are more then just this one. It is very costly to both a home owner in the city and to the city it's self.
I hope that the city comes to realize that people will move out of the city if they need to. This just adds more cost to living in Duluth and to business's as well. We need to take a good look at what our chooses are.
I will have more on this later in fact it maybe a few days. I am going to do some research on this. I command the Mayor for looking at oppositions but I think there are more then just this one. It is very costly to both a home owner in the city and to the city it's self.
I hope that the city comes to realize that people will move out of the city if they need to. This just adds more cost to living in Duluth and to business's as well. We need to take a good look at what our chooses are.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Bonding Bill
I sent an email to Governor Tim Pawlenty yesterday. I asked him to veto the entire bill. Some thing he should use the line item veto. I could see that but I don't believe that will send as strong of a message to the DFL.
I am as big of a supporter as anyone to get the DECC expansion. I however am not willing to compromise values to get it. Please understand that even if the Governor did veto the entire bill we could still get the DECC expansion this year. It would be a longer process but still very possible.
The DFL tents to think that they can just disregard any warning by the Governor. He has urged them to keep it with in a specific amount yet again those chose to not do so. The bonding bill affects every Minnesota. Yes well projects maybe put at jeopardy by a veto we must understand that it needs to be done. We need responsible spending and the DFL in this case is not willing to a bit by this. In a time were Minnesota and the Country are heading toward a possible recession it is time we demand our government protect us.
I believe that a complete veto sends a much stronger message then line item veto does. I also believe it gives him the power he needs to hold there feet to the fire. Trust me when I say I believe this a lot of Minnesotans feel. Governor Pawlenty protected us last bonding season and I hope he will do it again. Now is the time to control our money.
This is what my email focused on. It went more in depth. As of now I only got the thank you for contacting our office message. Will keep you updated if I get anything back.
I am as big of a supporter as anyone to get the DECC expansion. I however am not willing to compromise values to get it. Please understand that even if the Governor did veto the entire bill we could still get the DECC expansion this year. It would be a longer process but still very possible.
The DFL tents to think that they can just disregard any warning by the Governor. He has urged them to keep it with in a specific amount yet again those chose to not do so. The bonding bill affects every Minnesota. Yes well projects maybe put at jeopardy by a veto we must understand that it needs to be done. We need responsible spending and the DFL in this case is not willing to a bit by this. In a time were Minnesota and the Country are heading toward a possible recession it is time we demand our government protect us.
I believe that a complete veto sends a much stronger message then line item veto does. I also believe it gives him the power he needs to hold there feet to the fire. Trust me when I say I believe this a lot of Minnesotans feel. Governor Pawlenty protected us last bonding season and I hope he will do it again. Now is the time to control our money.
This is what my email focused on. It went more in depth. As of now I only got the thank you for contacting our office message. Will keep you updated if I get anything back.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Lake Superior low
A report just came out that Lake Superior dropped in March. The water level dropped a full inch in March. This is not a typical drop for the month of March, it is normally does drop in March however it only drop 1/2 inch or so. The dry weather (lack of snow) sense December is the problem. Well we had the cold this we failed in the snow category.
If the lake levels keep dropping what will this do to shipping industry? Duluth and many ports re lie on there shipping season.
If the lake levels keep dropping what will this do to shipping industry? Duluth and many ports re lie on there shipping season.
New look again.
I know that I just changed the look of the blog at the beginning of the year, however some one asked that I change it. They said it was hard to follow with the lay out of it. I hope this is better for some people let me know.
Superior City Council
Yesterday was election day in Superior. Our friends across the bridge had there chance to vote on City Councilor's and that they did. There was only about 20% voter turn out, however in council races were there were challengers the voting was heavy.
The city of Superior will see a new look council much like Duluth has. As you remember in our last election we elected five new councilors. Superior last night elected four new councilors only one incumbent that had a challenger was able to hold on to there seat.
The fresh start for the City of Superior will start soon. I hope that they elected people that will bring positive change to there city. I hope it is not just a promise like I believe some of our city councilors did. They promised change and I am not sure will get that. Yes it is still early to tell but it is a gut feeling I have.
The city of Superior will see a new look council much like Duluth has. As you remember in our last election we elected five new councilors. Superior last night elected four new councilors only one incumbent that had a challenger was able to hold on to there seat.
The fresh start for the City of Superior will start soon. I hope that they elected people that will bring positive change to there city. I hope it is not just a promise like I believe some of our city councilors did. They promised change and I am not sure will get that. Yes it is still early to tell but it is a gut feeling I have.
Sky dome to close it's doors for good.
The next time that the Golf Sky Dome is deflated will be the last time. The sky dome is set to close it's doors April 18th's. This is not a late April fools joke either. The golf sky dome opened in 1998. There is already plans to replace the dome with six sand volleyball courts.
David Kolquist who owner the dome sited two reason's for the closer. The raise in cost of heating the dome and differences with city officials not allowing the dome to stay up year round. Mr. Kolquist is now looking for a buy of a ten year old dome. If you know of anyone I am sure he would like to hear from you.
I feel for Mr. Kolquist the man has been forced to take down a dome that has fast became a staple to the Hermantown and Duluth area. Many golfers used it to keep up on there game during our winter's.
I understand that the issue's with the city of Hermantown was a lesser issue then heating the place was. However as many know Duluth has many problems in dealing with officials and I think business's in Northern Minnesota face many challenges to succeed. Having to have justify your self every turn of the way to a city is not good policy. I understand that government needs to have some rules and regulations in place. My question however is who knows how to run your business better? You or the government, I think most people will say the person running the business does.
The city sited that fire codes stood in the way of leaving the dome up year round. Here is a question if there were supposed fire code issues would they not be in effect the three or four month that the dome stands? I wonder how much of this is the city thinks that dome is an eye sore. I would not buy that argument either.
I am going to try to get in touch with both Mr. Kolquist and some Hermantown officials and see if there would be willing to comment on this issue. In the mean time your thoughts welcome.
David Kolquist who owner the dome sited two reason's for the closer. The raise in cost of heating the dome and differences with city officials not allowing the dome to stay up year round. Mr. Kolquist is now looking for a buy of a ten year old dome. If you know of anyone I am sure he would like to hear from you.
I feel for Mr. Kolquist the man has been forced to take down a dome that has fast became a staple to the Hermantown and Duluth area. Many golfers used it to keep up on there game during our winter's.
I understand that the issue's with the city of Hermantown was a lesser issue then heating the place was. However as many know Duluth has many problems in dealing with officials and I think business's in Northern Minnesota face many challenges to succeed. Having to have justify your self every turn of the way to a city is not good policy. I understand that government needs to have some rules and regulations in place. My question however is who knows how to run your business better? You or the government, I think most people will say the person running the business does.
The city sited that fire codes stood in the way of leaving the dome up year round. Here is a question if there were supposed fire code issues would they not be in effect the three or four month that the dome stands? I wonder how much of this is the city thinks that dome is an eye sore. I would not buy that argument either.
I am going to try to get in touch with both Mr. Kolquist and some Hermantown officials and see if there would be willing to comment on this issue. In the mean time your thoughts welcome.
Novirhabdovirus - Latest on Invasive Species
Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS). Also know as “Egtved virus” in Europe.
By now everyone has knows about Zebra Mussels. We all know that theses are bad. They have cost many businesses a small (or rather large) chunk of change and headache. They clog pipes, wash up on the beach, and forms large clusters on just about anything.
Maybe some of you remember the Sea Lamprey. This pesky little creature attaches itself to the side of a fish and eats away until the fish dies or it gets full. Many times the fish eventually dies from its wound.
There has been the Asian Carp and a whole slew of other invasive species. The latest, and greatest, Non-indigenous species (NIS) to hit the scene is the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS).
This little devil doesn't affect the Great Lakes like Zebra Mussels do. It is a new type of NIS. It causes a viral infection in fish. Currently, there are 50 fish identified that are susceptible to this infection. The problem is "our fish" on the Great Lakes do not have immunity to this virus. Only time will tell what toll this virus will take on the Great Lakes.
So you ask your self, well what does this have to do with Duluth Politics?
Recently Michigan passed legislation regarding ballast water procedures for ships sailing in Michigan waters. Minnesota has followed up with talks of their own legislation. More to follow...
Until then, look for signs of VHS in your local paper. It's inching it’s way it's way across the Great Lakes.
By now everyone has knows about Zebra Mussels. We all know that theses are bad. They have cost many businesses a small (or rather large) chunk of change and headache. They clog pipes, wash up on the beach, and forms large clusters on just about anything.
Maybe some of you remember the Sea Lamprey. This pesky little creature attaches itself to the side of a fish and eats away until the fish dies or it gets full. Many times the fish eventually dies from its wound.
There has been the Asian Carp and a whole slew of other invasive species. The latest, and greatest, Non-indigenous species (NIS) to hit the scene is the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS).
This little devil doesn't affect the Great Lakes like Zebra Mussels do. It is a new type of NIS. It causes a viral infection in fish. Currently, there are 50 fish identified that are susceptible to this infection. The problem is "our fish" on the Great Lakes do not have immunity to this virus. Only time will tell what toll this virus will take on the Great Lakes.
So you ask your self, well what does this have to do with Duluth Politics?
Recently Michigan passed legislation regarding ballast water procedures for ships sailing in Michigan waters. Minnesota has followed up with talks of their own legislation. More to follow...
Until then, look for signs of VHS in your local paper. It's inching it’s way it's way across the Great Lakes.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Poll question.
I have a poll question up on my bowling blog, www.teamrathebowling.blogspot.com. If you want to vote go there and check it out.
The question is who would win a bowling match you have four people to chose from. You have to go there and see who they are. I also have some thoughts on a couple of bowling events that went on just a few days ago.
The question is who would win a bowling match you have four people to chose from. You have to go there and see who they are. I also have some thoughts on a couple of bowling events that went on just a few days ago.
This was a weird cloud or something.
If you did not see this head over to Perfect Day Duluth blog and look at the two shots they have up,http://www.perfectduluthday.com/. I saw the circle as just a plain circle at one time in the sky and thought it was a bit odd. I did not see the second pic some one got and then posted on PDD.
I did however notice this circle changed many times. It was one very odd occurrence. Do you have any thoughts on this? Please lets be realistic here.
I did however notice this circle changed many times. It was one very odd occurrence. Do you have any thoughts on this? Please lets be realistic here.
What is good for one project is not good for another according to one blogger.
I find it funny that John over at the cheerleader blog http://shiningreputation.com/blog/ has an issue with one project but not another. Yet when you think of it the second issue should come to question before the one he talks about.
The cheerleaders issue is with the Heritage Center. Here is the link to his posthttp://shiningreputation.com/blog/?p=41.
Well my question runs with yet another project that apprenly take it's sweet old time. My question is about an arts and music center, http://www.armorycenter.org/. I don't remeber when this project started but by looking at there recoeds it was 2002. I however thing it was even before that. The Duluth Armory sits there well nothing is going on. Unlike the Duluth Heritage Center were ground breaking and construction have started.
The other issue I have with the Armory center is that you have heard nothing about it for a number of years. Yes they have the web site but other then that nothing at all. The first couple of years they were out in the public and taking donations and being vocal. Now it is like the project is dead.
If that is the case we should move on take back control of the property and do something with the property. In stead the building sits there collapsing more and more. When and if the group does come back to the City they will ask for huge amounts of money just to get the building ready to renovate.
The cheerleaders issue is with the Heritage Center. Here is the link to his posthttp://shiningreputation.com/blog/?p=41.
Well my question runs with yet another project that apprenly take it's sweet old time. My question is about an arts and music center, http://www.armorycenter.org/. I don't remeber when this project started but by looking at there recoeds it was 2002. I however thing it was even before that. The Duluth Armory sits there well nothing is going on. Unlike the Duluth Heritage Center were ground breaking and construction have started.
The other issue I have with the Armory center is that you have heard nothing about it for a number of years. Yes they have the web site but other then that nothing at all. The first couple of years they were out in the public and taking donations and being vocal. Now it is like the project is dead.
If that is the case we should move on take back control of the property and do something with the property. In stead the building sits there collapsing more and more. When and if the group does come back to the City they will ask for huge amounts of money just to get the building ready to renovate.
Monday, March 31, 2008
This is sad all the way around.
This was a sad story all the way around. I will over my thoughts on the article and the issue tomorrow. This is the story from the Duluth News Tribune. I was a murder or a young man that was far to young and he had just returned back from Iraq.
Here is the story, http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/articles/index.cfm?id=63482§ion=homepage.
I was going to make comments in this story but decided not to that. I want thank the Duluth News Tribune, it did a great job with this story.
I do want to make a few comments about this issue, I think it is to bad this guy was able to plea bargain. I don't believe he had to take this young mans life. I think it was clear that the soldier after returning home was having some issues facing him. Mr. Sheda however was not threat to the party.
We need to give our veterans the help they need when they return home from war. We also need to understand that there is an adjustment time well they return home.
Here is the story, http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/articles/index.cfm?id=63482§ion=homepage.
I was going to make comments in this story but decided not to that. I want thank the Duluth News Tribune, it did a great job with this story.
I do want to make a few comments about this issue, I think it is to bad this guy was able to plea bargain. I don't believe he had to take this young mans life. I think it was clear that the soldier after returning home was having some issues facing him. Mr. Sheda however was not threat to the party.
We need to give our veterans the help they need when they return home from war. We also need to understand that there is an adjustment time well they return home.
Two new contibuters to the blog.
I am proud to say we have two new blogger's to this blog. I am not sure how much they will blog. Mommy one and Garbon have joined the team.
Garbon does not live in Duluth any longer but lived here most of his life. He can also offer an outside look into Duluth Politics. He also can give us in site into Michigan politics and his thoughts on the many other issues.
Mommy one will bring a women's perspective into the blog. She will bring a great perspective this blog has been missing.
Garbon does not live in Duluth any longer but lived here most of his life. He can also offer an outside look into Duluth Politics. He also can give us in site into Michigan politics and his thoughts on the many other issues.
Mommy one will bring a women's perspective into the blog. She will bring a great perspective this blog has been missing.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Huntley has at least one challnger.
Tom Huntley who has represented House District 7A for many years will face at least one challenger. His challenger is a young man by the name of Ryan Stauber. Ryan is the son of Duluth City Councilor Jim Stauber.
I am hoping to chat with Ryan this week. I want to learn more about him. Also if he agrees to I will interview him for the blog. Whether this time or later down the road. I again will be offering the chance to interview with this blog. If you would like to learn more about Ryan Stauber you can go to his web site http://www.votestauber.com/.
I am hoping to chat with Ryan this week. I want to learn more about him. Also if he agrees to I will interview him for the blog. Whether this time or later down the road. I again will be offering the chance to interview with this blog. If you would like to learn more about Ryan Stauber you can go to his web site http://www.votestauber.com/.
Nebraska no longer has the electric chair.
Last week Nebraska stopped using it's electric chair. These chose to discontinued using the chair because they said it was to inhuman and did not always work correctly. Meaning it did not always shock them to death right away.
At this time they no longer have the death penalty because they have no way or executing. The State did however retain it's death penalty law. The vote to keep the death penalty passed by just one vote.
I am a huge supporter of the death penalty. I wish the State of Minnesota had it. As far as the argument of the chair being a cruel way to go. I don't think it is, the fact is you did something so bad (murder in most cases) then you should have what ever type of the death penalty the State has. If that is an electric chair then so be it.
At this time they no longer have the death penalty because they have no way or executing. The State did however retain it's death penalty law. The vote to keep the death penalty passed by just one vote.
I am a huge supporter of the death penalty. I wish the State of Minnesota had it. As far as the argument of the chair being a cruel way to go. I don't think it is, the fact is you did something so bad (murder in most cases) then you should have what ever type of the death penalty the State has. If that is an electric chair then so be it.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Norm Coleman event.
Norm Coleman was in Duluth Wednesday to kick off his campaign. About 150 people gathered to hear the Senator. Coleman speech was about getting things done, and being optimistic about the country. You may not always agree with the way we move but everyone must be optimistic and open minded. He also said that he will work and has worked with everyone in the senate. You must be willing to give and take not just take. His likely Challenger is a person known for just taking.
Coleman said that Franken does not have a record to stand on. I in a way agree and in another way disagree. get in to that later. Coleman said I will run on my record. I will run as a proud republican. My accomplished record stands for it's self he said.
After his remarks Senator Coleman took the time to talk with everyone that wanted to. He was a treat to meet and see. I look forward to seeing him again, and getting him re-elected as Senator.
Coleman said that Franken does not have a record to stand on. I in a way agree and in another way disagree. get in to that later. Coleman said I will run on my record. I will run as a proud republican. My accomplished record stands for it's self he said.
After his remarks Senator Coleman took the time to talk with everyone that wanted to. He was a treat to meet and see. I look forward to seeing him again, and getting him re-elected as Senator.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Norm Coleman event today.
I will be at the Norm Coleman campaign kickoff today. It starts at 3pm., I will not be blogging from there but I will blog after the event.
If you can come join us today at the radission.
If you can come join us today at the radission.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
I called this one two weeks ago.
If you listened to Talk of the Town two weeks ago you know that I called this. Tracy and I were talking about the new chief administrative officer, and that is was down to three candidates. There were two from out of town and one that held a job at the County.
He asked who I thought would get the job and I said the one from Duluth. Today the Mayor announced who would take over as his right hand man. It was in fact the candidate from Duluth.
Lisa Potswald will be the new chief administrator. She will take over for interim chief administrator John Hall. I have no issue with this appointment however I was hoping he would have went out side of the Duluth area. I believe that would have brought in new blood and some one that has no perceptions about the the job.
He asked who I thought would get the job and I said the one from Duluth. Today the Mayor announced who would take over as his right hand man. It was in fact the candidate from Duluth.
Lisa Potswald will be the new chief administrator. She will take over for interim chief administrator John Hall. I have no issue with this appointment however I was hoping he would have went out side of the Duluth area. I believe that would have brought in new blood and some one that has no perceptions about the the job.
Henry Banks says sorry.
By now many of you know about the email that Henry Banks send to two Duluth City Councilors. Councilor Fedora and Krause received an email from Mr. Banks after being asked questions. The questions were being asked because Mr. Banks was looking to be confirmed to a committee.
Councilor Krause had asked a question about being on two city boards, well Councillor Fedora had questions about a pass application. This promoted Mr. Banks to send the email to the two councilors.
What are your thoughts on this issue? If you want to get more details you can read the paper today http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_action=doc&p_docid=11FA280E915F6EF8&p_docnum=1.
I do have some thoughts but don't want to be the first to comment because I don't want to dictate the way of the conversation. It is open to you start.
Here are some general questions you can think about. Does racism happen in Duluth? Does racism happen to all people? Should Mr. Banks step down from his current board? Should Fedora and Krause let it go?
You can also vote on the poll on this issue.
Councilor Krause had asked a question about being on two city boards, well Councillor Fedora had questions about a pass application. This promoted Mr. Banks to send the email to the two councilors.
What are your thoughts on this issue? If you want to get more details you can read the paper today http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_action=doc&p_docid=11FA280E915F6EF8&p_docnum=1.
I do have some thoughts but don't want to be the first to comment because I don't want to dictate the way of the conversation. It is open to you start.
Here are some general questions you can think about. Does racism happen in Duluth? Does racism happen to all people? Should Mr. Banks step down from his current board? Should Fedora and Krause let it go?
You can also vote on the poll on this issue.
Monday, March 24, 2008
What you mean another Democrat in trouble. This time a bit closer to home.
This story is in Garbon neck of the woods.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080324/ap_on_re_us/detroit_mayor
You mean another democrat in trouble. Better the the Democratic Governor will not get involved yet.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080324/ap_on_re_us/detroit_mayor
You mean another democrat in trouble. Better the the Democratic Governor will not get involved yet.
I sure am glad today is leatherhead day and other notes.
Boy am I glad that today is leatherhead day in Duluth. As many of you know two big name movie stars were in Duluth today to kick off there movie. The movie will open April 4th. Leatherheads is based loosely on the Duluth Eskimos (bulldogs) in the movie from the 1920's.
Their press conferences started at 11 a.m. today. I must have been about the only one that did not care. I am not a movie watcher. I could not tell you a single movie George Clooney or Renee Zellweger have been in.
Here is the part about it being leatherhead day in Duluth. It comes from the Duluth News Tribune. This from Duluth Mayor Don Ness to kick off the Press Conference.
Duluth Mayor Don Ness launched the 11 a.m. press conference by proclaiming March 24 as “Leatherheads’ Day” and saying he didn’t consider himself “the slickest operator in Duluth,” a line that Zellweger’s character slams Clooney with in the film.
This would have been a bigger thing if there were staying in Duluth for longer then two or three hours. The fact is they did not, it was a kick off party to announce the movie. The way the media of all types have worked this up is incredible odd to me. The fact is this had no impact on Duluth.
Now on to a few other notes. I was going to blog about Sara Jane Olson. Not sure I will other then to say she is were she belongs once again. I may or may not come back to this issue.
I will be at the Duluth City Council meeting tonight. If there is anything interesting I will pass it along.
I hope you all hade a great Easter. We spend the weekend down in St.Cloud.
Their press conferences started at 11 a.m. today. I must have been about the only one that did not care. I am not a movie watcher. I could not tell you a single movie George Clooney or Renee Zellweger have been in.
Here is the part about it being leatherhead day in Duluth. It comes from the Duluth News Tribune. This from Duluth Mayor Don Ness to kick off the Press Conference.
Duluth Mayor Don Ness launched the 11 a.m. press conference by proclaiming March 24 as “Leatherheads’ Day” and saying he didn’t consider himself “the slickest operator in Duluth,” a line that Zellweger’s character slams Clooney with in the film.
This would have been a bigger thing if there were staying in Duluth for longer then two or three hours. The fact is they did not, it was a kick off party to announce the movie. The way the media of all types have worked this up is incredible odd to me. The fact is this had no impact on Duluth.
Now on to a few other notes. I was going to blog about Sara Jane Olson. Not sure I will other then to say she is were she belongs once again. I may or may not come back to this issue.
I will be at the Duluth City Council meeting tonight. If there is anything interesting I will pass it along.
I hope you all hade a great Easter. We spend the weekend down in St.Cloud.
Disc Golf: Should this be part of the city parks?
Note: I have moved this up. If anyone would like to comment please feel free to. The commnets so far are a bit out of line so if you have not read them please read from the top and work your way down. For some reason the commends are not in order. By the way Jim thanks for the info. I will post a comment to them soon.
Disc golf courses should they be part of the Duluth Parks and Recreations?
This is a question, I know nothing about disc golf. Never played it and have not heard much about it. I wonder however if it is as popular as people say it is then why not open a private course? One not ran by the city?
These are just a couple of questions. Maybe some one can give me there thoughts and enlighten me on what the game is.
Disc golf courses should they be part of the Duluth Parks and Recreations?
This is a question, I know nothing about disc golf. Never played it and have not heard much about it. I wonder however if it is as popular as people say it is then why not open a private course? One not ran by the city?
These are just a couple of questions. Maybe some one can give me there thoughts and enlighten me on what the game is.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Duluth Citizens Blog.
It seems as if the Duluth Citizens Blog may shut down again. At least that is the threat by the new operator. He says if there is not contributions made to the site he can not afford to operate the blog any longer.
My question is why do they need money. It is fairly cheap to run a site, in some cases even free. Why the trouble? Is there legal action or something?
Anyone have any idea?
My question is why do they need money. It is fairly cheap to run a site, in some cases even free. Why the trouble? Is there legal action or something?
Anyone have any idea?
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Watch this>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMaMYL_shxc
Watch this and let me know your thoughtgs.
Just a side note people have asking me how to get a hold of me with out leaving a comment. Just email me at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com
Watch this and let me know your thoughtgs.
Just a side note people have asking me how to get a hold of me with out leaving a comment. Just email me at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com
Mayor Ness to hold public meetings .
As many of you know Well City Councilor Don Ness was running for Duluth Mayor he promised that the office would be open to all. The Mayor announced that in fact he will be holding open meetings. The meetings will take place on Tuesday nights. They will be once a month meetings.
I like this idea. I hope this is some thing he continues for his term.
The meetings will take place the last Tuesday of every month. With the first one coming March 25th. They will all start at 5p.m.
This came from the Duluth Journal web site: www.duluthjournal.com
Duluth Mayor Don Ness will hold his first ‘Mayor’s Night’ event with Duluth citizens at City Hall next Tuesday at 5 p.m. — and continuing until each person has a chance to speak with the mayor.
The meetings will be held in the Fourth Floor Reception Room, which is Room 405, and held monthly on the last Tuesday of each month.
“It’s important that the Mayor’s office is open and accessible to all Duluth citizens,” Ness said. “I can’t guarantee that every issue will be resolved or that we’ll find agreement on every issue at hand — but every person will have their chance to express themselves and know that I have heard their perspective.”
‘Mayor’s Night’ events will give citizens regular opportunities to meet with Mayor Ness and senior city staff. Citizens can come to the Reception Room to sign in. Meetings with the mayor will be on a first come-first served basis. All citizens taking part will have an opportunity to meet with the mayor, though the presence of larger numbers of citizens may mean slightly shorter meeting times.
“This event is another small step in our efforts to improve service and accountability in City Hall,” said Ness. “The important thing is to make sure everyone is heard and all legitimate concerns are placed in a system where we can act on them and follow up.”
I like this idea. I hope this is some thing he continues for his term.
The meetings will take place the last Tuesday of every month. With the first one coming March 25th. They will all start at 5p.m.
This came from the Duluth Journal web site: www.duluthjournal.com
Duluth Mayor Don Ness will hold his first ‘Mayor’s Night’ event with Duluth citizens at City Hall next Tuesday at 5 p.m. — and continuing until each person has a chance to speak with the mayor.
The meetings will be held in the Fourth Floor Reception Room, which is Room 405, and held monthly on the last Tuesday of each month.
“It’s important that the Mayor’s office is open and accessible to all Duluth citizens,” Ness said. “I can’t guarantee that every issue will be resolved or that we’ll find agreement on every issue at hand — but every person will have their chance to express themselves and know that I have heard their perspective.”
‘Mayor’s Night’ events will give citizens regular opportunities to meet with Mayor Ness and senior city staff. Citizens can come to the Reception Room to sign in. Meetings with the mayor will be on a first come-first served basis. All citizens taking part will have an opportunity to meet with the mayor, though the presence of larger numbers of citizens may mean slightly shorter meeting times.
“This event is another small step in our efforts to improve service and accountability in City Hall,” said Ness. “The important thing is to make sure everyone is heard and all legitimate concerns are placed in a system where we can act on them and follow up.”
Monday, March 17, 2008
Plug!!!
I know that I have plugged this site before but I want to do it again.
It is an outstanding site. Duluth Solutions is the site. Find them at www.duluthsolutions.com. The topics very. The point of the site is to bring people together and come up with ways of improving Duluth. You can also bring up topics of other interest as well. The site offers more then I can put into words so check them out. Plus I don't want Chris to be mad at me :) I have plugged my site there.
Hey Chris anything you want to add feel free!!
It is an outstanding site. Duluth Solutions is the site. Find them at www.duluthsolutions.com. The topics very. The point of the site is to bring people together and come up with ways of improving Duluth. You can also bring up topics of other interest as well. The site offers more then I can put into words so check them out. Plus I don't want Chris to be mad at me :) I have plugged my site there.
Hey Chris anything you want to add feel free!!
When can I expect my Federal rebate check?
This is from the Duluth News Tribune, find then online at www.duluthnewstribune.com.
The Internal Revenue Service today announced that federal tax rebates will be distributed on the basis of the last two digits of Social Security numbers beginning May 2. Payments will be completed in July.
Those who designated direct deposit of their federal tax refunds will receive the rebates that way. Those who didn’t will receive paper checks.
The only thing most people need to do to receive what’s called the economic stimulus payment is file their federal 2007 income tax returns, IRS spokeswoman Carrie Resch said.
However, some low-income workers, railroad retirees and Social Security and veterans benefits recipients who don’t normally file must do so this year to receive the rebates. The IRS is sending a mailing beginning this week with information for those people.
With few exceptions, payments will be made in this order for tax returns received and processed by April 15.
For direct deposit payments, if the last two digits of your Social Security number are:
00 – 20, payment is expected by May 2.
21 – 75, expected by May 9.
76 – 99, expected by May 16.
For paper checks:
00 – 09, the check should be in the mail by May 16.
10 – 18, in the mail by May 23.
19 – 25, in the mail by May 30.
26 – 38, in the mail by June 6.
39 – 51, in the mail by June 13.
52 – 63, in the mail by June 20.
64 – 75, in the mail by June 27.
76 – 87, in the mail by July 4.
88 – 99, in the mail by July 11.
The Internal Revenue Service today announced that federal tax rebates will be distributed on the basis of the last two digits of Social Security numbers beginning May 2. Payments will be completed in July.
Those who designated direct deposit of their federal tax refunds will receive the rebates that way. Those who didn’t will receive paper checks.
The only thing most people need to do to receive what’s called the economic stimulus payment is file their federal 2007 income tax returns, IRS spokeswoman Carrie Resch said.
However, some low-income workers, railroad retirees and Social Security and veterans benefits recipients who don’t normally file must do so this year to receive the rebates. The IRS is sending a mailing beginning this week with information for those people.
With few exceptions, payments will be made in this order for tax returns received and processed by April 15.
For direct deposit payments, if the last two digits of your Social Security number are:
00 – 20, payment is expected by May 2.
21 – 75, expected by May 9.
76 – 99, expected by May 16.
For paper checks:
00 – 09, the check should be in the mail by May 16.
10 – 18, in the mail by May 23.
19 – 25, in the mail by May 30.
26 – 38, in the mail by June 6.
39 – 51, in the mail by June 13.
52 – 63, in the mail by June 20.
64 – 75, in the mail by June 27.
76 – 87, in the mail by July 4.
88 – 99, in the mail by July 11.
Core Services.
What is a core service to you that the city should provide? I believe that the city needs to focus on emergency services, controlling crime and drug deals that go on in Duluth. I also believe that the city must work heavily on improving our roads. As many of you know Duluth roads are in deplorable shape.
This is not because of city workers, it is because of the city's choices. We have decided for far to long to not pay any attion to our streets. Now in most cases we are needing to totally re-haul a street that is fixed. I know many people don't believe that the over-lay program works. Here is the deal it would if we did not let the streets get so bad. I also think it is time that Duluth takes a look at alternate forms of street martial. Most of our streets are pavement (black top). I believe we would get better wear and longer use of our streets if we used concrete. Much like Mesabi Ave. is.
The Duluth City Council has robbed the fund that is to improve our streets for many years. We can ill-effort this to continue. Many of the new faces on our city council ran saying that our roads and infrastructure was a major focus. Now is the time to hold the feet to the fire.
I will have much more on this topic tonight and all this week. This is a huge topic facing Duluth politics right now. We all need to encourage our councilors to support core services. I have not yet said what I believe are all the core services but they will all be brought up in the post to come. What do you believe our core services are?
This is not because of city workers, it is because of the city's choices. We have decided for far to long to not pay any attion to our streets. Now in most cases we are needing to totally re-haul a street that is fixed. I know many people don't believe that the over-lay program works. Here is the deal it would if we did not let the streets get so bad. I also think it is time that Duluth takes a look at alternate forms of street martial. Most of our streets are pavement (black top). I believe we would get better wear and longer use of our streets if we used concrete. Much like Mesabi Ave. is.
The Duluth City Council has robbed the fund that is to improve our streets for many years. We can ill-effort this to continue. Many of the new faces on our city council ran saying that our roads and infrastructure was a major focus. Now is the time to hold the feet to the fire.
I will have much more on this topic tonight and all this week. This is a huge topic facing Duluth politics right now. We all need to encourage our councilors to support core services. I have not yet said what I believe are all the core services but they will all be brought up in the post to come. What do you believe our core services are?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Norm Coleman coming to Duluth part 2.
As stated before Senator Norm Coleman is coming to Duluth. This will be all part of officially kicking off his re-election campaign. His visit will be held at the Raddison Hotel in Downtown Duluth. The visit will be from 3-4 p.m.
If you would like to attend please drop me an email and let me know, www.duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com . Now would be a good time for me to mention as well that I am the coordinator for the East and Central hillside areas of Duluth for Senator Colman's re-election. If you live in this area of town please contact me if you would like to help with the campaign. The job is a volunteer position.
If you would like to attend please drop me an email and let me know, www.duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com . Now would be a good time for me to mention as well that I am the coordinator for the East and Central hillside areas of Duluth for Senator Colman's re-election. If you live in this area of town please contact me if you would like to help with the campaign. The job is a volunteer position.
Mike Ciresi Drops out of the Senate race.
The best DFL candidate in my mind dropped out of the race yesterday. I was not going to support Mr. Ciresi however I thought he was the best candidate the DFL had. I first read the news at www.minnesotademocratsexposed. Followed by a story on the www.duluthnewstribune.com site.
My first thought was, to bad. The best candidate they offer drops out because he feels he can't win the nomination. I was cheering for Mr. Ciresi to win the DFL nomination. I then expected a tight race for the guy I do support Senator Coleman. Mike offered the a common sense approach on many issues. It does not matter if you agree with him or not. He and I don't agree many times, however in the few times I have had the chance to talk with him he was very respectful.
Senator Colman had this to say about the news, "Mike Ciresi should be applauded for his willingness to get into the arena and his desire to serve. He and I both share a common path in having raised our families here and making a commitment to serving the people of Minnesota through public and community service. He would have been a formidable opponent. Laurie and I and our family extend our best wishes to Mike and Anne."
I think by Ciresi dropping out of the race it will only help the re-election Mr. Coleman. It sure is my hope anyway. I don't see a lot of the people that would have voted for Mike voting for Al Fraken. Even if Ciresi endorses him.
My first thought was, to bad. The best candidate they offer drops out because he feels he can't win the nomination. I was cheering for Mr. Ciresi to win the DFL nomination. I then expected a tight race for the guy I do support Senator Coleman. Mike offered the a common sense approach on many issues. It does not matter if you agree with him or not. He and I don't agree many times, however in the few times I have had the chance to talk with him he was very respectful.
Senator Colman had this to say about the news, "Mike Ciresi should be applauded for his willingness to get into the arena and his desire to serve. He and I both share a common path in having raised our families here and making a commitment to serving the people of Minnesota through public and community service. He would have been a formidable opponent. Laurie and I and our family extend our best wishes to Mike and Anne."
I think by Ciresi dropping out of the race it will only help the re-election Mr. Coleman. It sure is my hope anyway. I don't see a lot of the people that would have voted for Mike voting for Al Fraken. Even if Ciresi endorses him.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Well Well Well..........
All I have to say for now is this. No one is perfect nor is any party. The Democrats love to call the republicans, well here is one for you Democrats http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23561606. Talk about this why don't you?
*****UPDATE******
Here is another interesting story, http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080310/ap_on_re_us/spitzer_prostitution.
This story seems to have more legs then the Senator Craig story did and does. I am not defending senator Craig at this time but the two story's seem to go in a different direction. Well the Senator's story line is unclear as to what happened this seems to be cut and dry for N.Y. Governor.
I hope to have a full story and thoughts up soon tonight. Tell then happy reading the above story's.
*****UPDATE******
Here is another interesting story, http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080310/ap_on_re_us/spitzer_prostitution.
This story seems to have more legs then the Senator Craig story did and does. I am not defending senator Craig at this time but the two story's seem to go in a different direction. Well the Senator's story line is unclear as to what happened this seems to be cut and dry for N.Y. Governor.
I hope to have a full story and thoughts up soon tonight. Tell then happy reading the above story's.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Norm Coleman coming to Duluth
Senator Norm Coleman will be making an appearance in Duluth. It will be to officially kick off his re-election campaign. He will be in town March 26th. He will be in town late afternoon. More info to come.
Just aside note his appearance is four days after my 30th birthday, on March 22nd. It is also my best friends birthday.
Just aside note his appearance is four days after my 30th birthday, on March 22nd. It is also my best friends birthday.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Mayor Ness: How has he done the first couple of month.
Mayor elect Don Ness very quickly became the Mayor of Duluth. The move was quick and quite for the most part.
Now that he has been in office for a couple of month, I thought we would take a look at what has gone on. Let me start by saying I believe it is way to early to pass major judgement on how he is doing.
I have to say he wanted to keep city topics off the front page and out of the news. He has done a good job so far. I think that is clear by this blog not having a lot of local issues to talk about the last couple of weeks. I like that there seems to be less complain in city government at least so far. This may not stay the case. If it does not however I am not sure that this mayor would be at fault. That all remains to be seen.
The mayor at this point has not done a lot, however that must be expected. What he has done is said he would like to help out our sewer system, by using sump pumps instead of our current system. I don't have a feeling on this as of yet either way.
He has also announced that Duluth will host a new festival. Other then that with a few small other items in there not much to report.
Over all at this point I think the Mayor is doing okay. Time will tell what direction Duluth will move. I remain optimistic at this point. However that does not mean that I won;t be critical when I think I need to be. I will also give praise when deserved as well.
Now that he has been in office for a couple of month, I thought we would take a look at what has gone on. Let me start by saying I believe it is way to early to pass major judgement on how he is doing.
I have to say he wanted to keep city topics off the front page and out of the news. He has done a good job so far. I think that is clear by this blog not having a lot of local issues to talk about the last couple of weeks. I like that there seems to be less complain in city government at least so far. This may not stay the case. If it does not however I am not sure that this mayor would be at fault. That all remains to be seen.
The mayor at this point has not done a lot, however that must be expected. What he has done is said he would like to help out our sewer system, by using sump pumps instead of our current system. I don't have a feeling on this as of yet either way.
He has also announced that Duluth will host a new festival. Other then that with a few small other items in there not much to report.
Over all at this point I think the Mayor is doing okay. Time will tell what direction Duluth will move. I remain optimistic at this point. However that does not mean that I won;t be critical when I think I need to be. I will also give praise when deserved as well.
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