Long time DFL ( now retired) Staete Senator from Tower is going to support and vote for an unlikely candidate. Johnson always votes for the DFL candidates. Johnson said the this is first time if 40 years ( ten years longer then I have been alive) that he is voting for a republican.
Well the star trib article http://www.startribune.com/politics/state/29866779.html?elr=KArks:DCiU1OiP:DiiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU , does not say why he is not supporting Franken it does say that he things Coleman is the candidate to work with both sides of the aisle.
Johnson said this is the only race he is voting for a republican. He will vote for the Democrats the rest of the ticket.
More he as wellhttp://www.virginiamn.com/articles/2008/09/28/news/doc48def75a38cfc857117666.txt . DP will have any updates on this story. More on this later tonight as well.
Johnson is a well respected Democrat in Northern Minnesota and the State as whole. This endorsement is huge for Coleman.
Monday, September 29, 2008
700 billion dolllar bailout rejected.
Today the house bailed out of bailing out the lending markets. As I don't know a lot about the bill today but what I found interesting is that the bill was opposed by mostly republicans. The one thing I do know is the bill did not have much help for home owners like it should.
What lies head who knows, both the democrats and republicans said they would continue working on a bill that would work for both sides.
What lies head who knows, both the democrats and republicans said they would continue working on a bill that would work for both sides.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Duluth News Tribune rate increase.
The Duluth News Tribune will go to 75 cents starting Monday well the Sunday paper will remain $1.50. The paper has been struggling with this decision for some time now. As papers around the country continue to lose hard copy advertiser's. Also many papers have an online service. Many chose to advertise that way.
There is not only a decline in advertising dollars but there has been for a number of years a decline in reader ship of the DNT and papers across the country. As people us the computer more and more to get there news. You can read the DNT online at http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/. Many people choice to do this and get there information from many other online sites. That range from papers, to magazines and political sites.
Monday UPDATE: Today there were a lot of people complaing about the increase. Even when I explained why they did not seem to care. I wounder how many calls the DNT got today?
There is not only a decline in advertising dollars but there has been for a number of years a decline in reader ship of the DNT and papers across the country. As people us the computer more and more to get there news. You can read the DNT online at http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/. Many people choice to do this and get there information from many other online sites. That range from papers, to magazines and political sites.
Monday UPDATE: Today there were a lot of people complaing about the increase. Even when I explained why they did not seem to care. I wounder how many calls the DNT got today?
Sunday: At church
Well as many do head off to church today they may or may not have a different type of sermon. As a group is calling for pastors and ministers to comment and criticize some candidates around the country. In this case the group that called a Duluth pastor was a conservative christian group.
The pastor in Duluth thankful declined to do so, I have no idea nor does it matter if this pastor is republican or democrat. I don't thing on the pulpit. I know that many churches hold a political view. That is fine but I don't think the pulpit is the right spot to make a statement.
I hope that many pastors refuse this type of sermon today or over the next few weeks. I am more then interested to know what others think. Again it should not matter if your church is one that believes along the lines of democrat or republican the Sunday service is not the spot to make a political statement. I believe like all other people do that pastors have every right have there views.
The pastor in Duluth thankful declined to do so, I have no idea nor does it matter if this pastor is republican or democrat. I don't thing on the pulpit. I know that many churches hold a political view. That is fine but I don't think the pulpit is the right spot to make a statement.
I hope that many pastors refuse this type of sermon today or over the next few weeks. I am more then interested to know what others think. Again it should not matter if your church is one that believes along the lines of democrat or republican the Sunday service is not the spot to make a political statement. I believe like all other people do that pastors have every right have there views.
Friday, September 26, 2008
The winner is!!! Drum roll please.
No one!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I believe that no one won the first debate. Both Obama and McCain were bad. Neither one of them seemed fit to be president in that debate. Both talked over the top of each other like little kids. Both I thought were very unprofessional. I wish the moderator would have done a better job of interupting this action. We wonder why many don't vote.
Well much of this debate focused on the Iraq war (yawn). The fact is the Iraq war is a very little issue in this election. The American public in surveys say that the war falls low on the major issues facing this country. Many groups want it to be the focus but it just is not to most Americans.
Both candidates made there points on these issue however as far as I saw it there was no clear winner. It is much of what we heard all campaign. Obama continued his assault on the Military and getting out of Iraq with a set date. Well McCain does not believe in a set date to with draw.
Many pendants say McCains strong point is military issues. If you believe this then you may give Obama a very slide lead after this debate.
I believe that no one won the first debate. Both Obama and McCain were bad. Neither one of them seemed fit to be president in that debate. Both talked over the top of each other like little kids. Both I thought were very unprofessional. I wish the moderator would have done a better job of interupting this action. We wonder why many don't vote.
Well much of this debate focused on the Iraq war (yawn). The fact is the Iraq war is a very little issue in this election. The American public in surveys say that the war falls low on the major issues facing this country. Many groups want it to be the focus but it just is not to most Americans.
Both candidates made there points on these issue however as far as I saw it there was no clear winner. It is much of what we heard all campaign. Obama continued his assault on the Military and getting out of Iraq with a set date. Well McCain does not believe in a set date to with draw.
Many pendants say McCains strong point is military issues. If you believe this then you may give Obama a very slide lead after this debate.
I agree with Lori Swanson
Today the Minnesota Attorney General send out a press release. The release was about the Minnesota Power hike increase. She thinks that the increase is far to much. I agree 100%.
Yes I agree with a democrat, this is not the first time either. It may not happen a lot but it sure does happen. Now here is why I agree. At this point in time the increase is far to much. The overall increase is 45 million dollars with 2/3 of it going to residents and small business. At this time when people are struggling to make ends meet is not the right time for this increase.
The other question I have is what is the increase for? Is to provide better service? Or is it to continue the laugh able research to develop other sources of energy. Fact of the matter is we know all we need to know about other sources of energy. We don't need to be spending money on research.
Also we must understand that it will many many many years before any other energy shores hit America we re lie on what we have now far to much. An increase now makes no sense for something we won't have for at least another 30 years, at that point I will be 60 years old.
Yes I agree with a democrat, this is not the first time either. It may not happen a lot but it sure does happen. Now here is why I agree. At this point in time the increase is far to much. The overall increase is 45 million dollars with 2/3 of it going to residents and small business. At this time when people are struggling to make ends meet is not the right time for this increase.
The other question I have is what is the increase for? Is to provide better service? Or is it to continue the laugh able research to develop other sources of energy. Fact of the matter is we know all we need to know about other sources of energy. We don't need to be spending money on research.
Also we must understand that it will many many many years before any other energy shores hit America we re lie on what we have now far to much. An increase now makes no sense for something we won't have for at least another 30 years, at that point I will be 60 years old.
McCain agrees to debate.
Though I agree with McCain suspending his campiagn the other day and possile postponing the debate tonight. I think he needs to be very careful. He can not suspend his campaign again.
If he does so it would be a bad thing and look like he is just playing politics. At this point I think the two times he has suspended his campaign have been for the right desions. I also feel if he does it again he will strike out in this campaign. For me that is not good thing.
If he does so it would be a bad thing and look like he is just playing politics. At this point I think the two times he has suspended his campaign have been for the right desions. I also feel if he does it again he will strike out in this campaign. For me that is not good thing.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
John McCain suspends campaign
The republican candidate for president has suspends his campaign as of 5p.m tonight. He also asked Barack Obama to reschedule the debate that is to take place tomorrow night. Well Obama did not agree to do this.
McCain has asked to do this because of economy and what is going on he believes that we need to concentrate on the issue ahead of us. It seems that Obama is only out for him self and not this Country but that should not come a shock to anyone.
McCain has asked to do this because of economy and what is going on he believes that we need to concentrate on the issue ahead of us. It seems that Obama is only out for him self and not this Country but that should not come a shock to anyone.
Mayor Ness represents Obama.
Duluth Mayor Don Ness attend a Barack Obama rally today. Now I know I have said this before but I have also been consistent on it.
Well at the event he was introduced as Duluth Mayor now I don't thing that Don Ness should be representing the city as a whole at these type of events. As not everyone in the city will be voting for Obama. I also don't think that the Governor should have been campaigning for McCain as Governor. When these politicians are introduced it should be by name only.
Now I understand that the reason they are asked to be part of the campaigns is because of there positions. Still I believe that they should not represent the whole city or State as being introduced as Mayor or Governor ect....
Well at the event he was introduced as Duluth Mayor now I don't thing that Don Ness should be representing the city as a whole at these type of events. As not everyone in the city will be voting for Obama. I also don't think that the Governor should have been campaigning for McCain as Governor. When these politicians are introduced it should be by name only.
Now I understand that the reason they are asked to be part of the campaigns is because of there positions. Still I believe that they should not represent the whole city or State as being introduced as Mayor or Governor ect....
Budgeteer News Article: Ralph Doty
Ralph Doty wrote an article in the Budgeteer this last weekend. I have it up on interview page if you have not yet read it please do so. You can go here to do so, dpinterviewpage.blogspot.com.
If you have read it I want to know what you think of it? Leave your comments here.
I have a lot of them but right now will say this. I think he is wrong in the most part. Mr. Doty likes to go on the attack over politics.
If you have read it I want to know what you think of it? Leave your comments here.
I have a lot of them but right now will say this. I think he is wrong in the most part. Mr. Doty likes to go on the attack over politics.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Coleman and Franken.
I think it is time for Coleman to stop with the ads against Al Franken's jokes. Well I think it worked well in the beginning it seems to be costing him now. Franken has cut into the lead and almost made this a dead heat race. Something I thought would never happen.
I thought Coleman would walk away with this race hands down. I however now thing that the people are just sick of hearing about the bad jokes and the not paying taxes of done by Al Franken. Yes I believe that his jokes our rude and crude and I personally agree with the ads that Coleman has out but now is the time to talk about issues.
Right now it seems almost like the voters are sympathetic to Franken I am not sure why that is. Because at the beginning it worked well. It may be an over kill.
I think if Coleman can get back to the issues he will win hands down. Franken is hard pressed to have an idea of what do about anything. He is much like Obama voting present in major votes in the Chicago.
I thought Coleman would walk away with this race hands down. I however now thing that the people are just sick of hearing about the bad jokes and the not paying taxes of done by Al Franken. Yes I believe that his jokes our rude and crude and I personally agree with the ads that Coleman has out but now is the time to talk about issues.
Right now it seems almost like the voters are sympathetic to Franken I am not sure why that is. Because at the beginning it worked well. It may be an over kill.
I think if Coleman can get back to the issues he will win hands down. Franken is hard pressed to have an idea of what do about anything. He is much like Obama voting present in major votes in the Chicago.
Friday, September 19, 2008
In a flash!!!!!
In the blink of an eye the stock market plummeted on Monday with news of a trouble in lending fields. Then over the last two day the Market jumped back up. Like a flash the market is back up from were it ended last week and we gained more then what we lost on Monday.
Yet some think the market is in a flat linehttp://centrisity.blogspot.com/. Fact i the market has done what it does in a normal sarcoma stance.
Yet some think the market is in a flat linehttp://centrisity.blogspot.com/. Fact i the market has done what it does in a normal sarcoma stance.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Talk radio changes.
Well if you have not noticed there have been changes in the local talk radio seen. KDAL radio has changed almost all there local talk. They got ride of Joe Souchery and replaced him with the awful Rhonda Grusendorf and a former City Councilor Russ Stwart. Well Stewart's show is just getting going I think it can be a good show. I think he needs to show a bit more emotion on the air and raise and lower his voice at the right times but it will come with experience. He has little radio experience. Rhonda is on 1-3 and Stewart is on 3-5 p.m.
Also on the KDAL is a brand new show that started today and I don't remember when I heard her on. Corrinda Horton is on I believe it was 11 A.M. or so. The KDAL web site does not have there right line up on there page, plus they still have all the old on air staff still on there page. There page has always been a joke.
WDSM is the Conservative talk station of the North now it seems. There line up all day and night is those that believe in the republican agenda. Which is fine by me you get some of both on both of these stations. WDSM has local talk as well with Lew Latto from 7-9 A.M. and Brad Bennette from 9-11 A.M.
Well this leaves many people to wonder if Joe Souchery and GL will be back on Duluth radio. As the show had a huge following in the norhtland. The rumor is it will be back on it's original home of WEBC with in the next few weeks. This is just a rumor at this point.
Also on the KDAL is a brand new show that started today and I don't remember when I heard her on. Corrinda Horton is on I believe it was 11 A.M. or so. The KDAL web site does not have there right line up on there page, plus they still have all the old on air staff still on there page. There page has always been a joke.
WDSM is the Conservative talk station of the North now it seems. There line up all day and night is those that believe in the republican agenda. Which is fine by me you get some of both on both of these stations. WDSM has local talk as well with Lew Latto from 7-9 A.M. and Brad Bennette from 9-11 A.M.
Well this leaves many people to wonder if Joe Souchery and GL will be back on Duluth radio. As the show had a huge following in the norhtland. The rumor is it will be back on it's original home of WEBC with in the next few weeks. This is just a rumor at this point.
Minnesota a swing state again this year?
The last two presidential election Minnesota was in the news a lot. As we were viewed as a swing or battle ground state. Well the state both times went the way we all thought it would Democrat. However President Bush has respectable numbers in the state.
This year it looked different. It looks as if Minnesota would get little to no exposer except for the Republican convention. Even that was put on hold the first night because of hurricanes. The numbers looked like the Democrat candidate Barack Obama was going to win the state handily. Just a month ago Obama was up in Minnesota by 15% points and was polling away with the state.
Then all of a sudden yesterday the Star Tribes poll has the two in a dead heat at 45% each. This again making Minnesota a battle ground state of the final 50 days of the election. The Republican candidate John McCain has make a huge effort to cut into the lead of Obama in Minnesota and it is clearly working. McCain has picked up support over the last month in almost every voting category. Young people, , men, women vote totals are all up in the last month.
This means you will see a huge increase of advertising, grass roots efforts and even possible more visits to the fine state of Minnesota by the candidates and or there VP picks. The next 50 or so days will be very interesting for Minnesota. What will be more interesting is will Minnesota vote for a republican for the first time in many years. I believe the last republican presidential candidate that was a republican to win the state was Richard Nixon.
This year it looked different. It looks as if Minnesota would get little to no exposer except for the Republican convention. Even that was put on hold the first night because of hurricanes. The numbers looked like the Democrat candidate Barack Obama was going to win the state handily. Just a month ago Obama was up in Minnesota by 15% points and was polling away with the state.
Then all of a sudden yesterday the Star Tribes poll has the two in a dead heat at 45% each. This again making Minnesota a battle ground state of the final 50 days of the election. The Republican candidate John McCain has make a huge effort to cut into the lead of Obama in Minnesota and it is clearly working. McCain has picked up support over the last month in almost every voting category. Young people, , men, women vote totals are all up in the last month.
This means you will see a huge increase of advertising, grass roots efforts and even possible more visits to the fine state of Minnesota by the candidates and or there VP picks. The next 50 or so days will be very interesting for Minnesota. What will be more interesting is will Minnesota vote for a republican for the first time in many years. I believe the last republican presidential candidate that was a republican to win the state was Richard Nixon.
Union had there convention.
The AFL-CIO has said many times they don't think they are a political machine. If that is the case then why would have you a convention? This convention is set up just like the two major political party's conventions are set up. This years Minnesota convention was held right here in Duluth, http://www.mnaflcio.org/.
Now if you were not a political machine then again why have a convention? I guess that doing what you are suppose to do as union does not matter as long no one is watching.
I will have more later. I will also pass this information on to others.
Now if you were not a political machine then again why have a convention? I guess that doing what you are suppose to do as union does not matter as long no one is watching.
I will have more later. I will also pass this information on to others.
Today after work.
Today's after work I am hoping to be able to blog a bit. I am hoping to blog both here and on the sports page of DP.
There is not a lot political going on right now of course as always the financial troubles the city is in is a topic. The primary is behind us and the candidates that won look a head to the general election.
In sports well there is a bit going on the vikes lose, as packers rout the lions. Much more as well.
Before I can blog however I will be bringing our little boy or 4 month into the urgent care he has had a cold for some time and we just want to make sure there is not something else.
There is not a lot political going on right now of course as always the financial troubles the city is in is a topic. The primary is behind us and the candidates that won look a head to the general election.
In sports well there is a bit going on the vikes lose, as packers rout the lions. Much more as well.
Before I can blog however I will be bringing our little boy or 4 month into the urgent care he has had a cold for some time and we just want to make sure there is not something else.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Election results.
Well I thought that Roger Reinert would win the primary on Tuesday night I was surprised how handily he won the seat. I think what we are seeing is a vote against the union being so political. We started to see in the last general election with Becky Hall doing so well. Also others getting elected like Todd Fedora. Now with this vote the same thing.
Marsh Stenersen the union backed candidate only got about 36% of the vote well Reinert got about 56% of the vote. There were also two other candidate in the race that finished well off the pace getting about 2% of the vote each.
Stenersen may have also had the kiss of death backing of the incumbent Mike Jaros.. This may have been as equally a vote against Jaros and not wanting his type of leadership at the State level. Marsh came from the same mold as did Jaros. He also stands and believes to not work with the other side much like Jaros did.
Other races of interest pit Bill Kron the 3rd district county board member against Chris Dahlberg. The 32 year incumbent got barley 50% of the vote in the primary. Well a well known candidate in Chris Dahlberg who served on the city council from 1992 to 1995 received 42% of the vote.
I think this race will be very close. As Dahlberg is running a great campaign and Kron who served for 32 years has issues facing him.
Marsh Stenersen the union backed candidate only got about 36% of the vote well Reinert got about 56% of the vote. There were also two other candidate in the race that finished well off the pace getting about 2% of the vote each.
Stenersen may have also had the kiss of death backing of the incumbent Mike Jaros.. This may have been as equally a vote against Jaros and not wanting his type of leadership at the State level. Marsh came from the same mold as did Jaros. He also stands and believes to not work with the other side much like Jaros did.
Other races of interest pit Bill Kron the 3rd district county board member against Chris Dahlberg. The 32 year incumbent got barley 50% of the vote in the primary. Well a well known candidate in Chris Dahlberg who served on the city council from 1992 to 1995 received 42% of the vote.
I think this race will be very close. As Dahlberg is running a great campaign and Kron who served for 32 years has issues facing him.
Duluth Remembers 9/11
Today's event has been moved from out side at Bay front park to the Depot at the great hall. This is because of the rain.
The event futures Duluth Mayor Don Ness among others to remember the event 7years ago today.
The event futures Duluth Mayor Don Ness among others to remember the event 7years ago today.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Judge rules against the AFSCME
Today the city picked up a win in it's effort to try to balance the budget. As a result of the judgement by the St. Louis County judge it saves 40 jobs. It also makes the 21 full times jobs that were laid off yesterday permanent. At least at this point. The attorney's for the union have already said they will pro sue other angles in court.
Well I am pleased with the judges decision it still sadness me that some workers must lose there jobs. It is clear however that this is a big way to help solve the issue and set up long range planning to continue solving the budget issues facing the city.
We need to stop making sort term solutions that is in part why we are in this situation now. We must work on a long range plan and stick with it.
Well I am pleased with the judges decision it still sadness me that some workers must lose there jobs. It is clear however that this is a big way to help solve the issue and set up long range planning to continue solving the budget issues facing the city.
We need to stop making sort term solutions that is in part why we are in this situation now. We must work on a long range plan and stick with it.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
I know this is not real but it is funny and interesting. Check it out here http://www.inews3.com/topstory.php?id=48617272797c57656c7479.
I of course found it on Harry Welty's blog first, http://www.lincolndemocrat.com//
I of course found it on Harry Welty's blog first, http://www.lincolndemocrat.com//
Law suit updates will be on this post.
1:33 breaking news: The Judge says he will have a decision with 24 hours. It looks like it could come even some time today. Both sides were in court this morning. The disagreement again is if lays happen it should be part timers first then full timers if needed. That is at least the unions point of view. Well the city says most of the part timers are being keep'ed because they are in jobs that are not full time spots.
4:03 If the word comes after 5pm tonight I will have it up when I get home. I will be leaving for a while. I hope we hear something in the next hour but don't know if we will.
4:03 If the word comes after 5pm tonight I will have it up when I get home. I will be leaving for a while. I hope we hear something in the next hour but don't know if we will.
Red plan
Tonight there will be a special school board meeting. The meeting will take place at old central the central administration building. The meeting will start at 6:30 tonight.
The special meeting is about the red plan. Member Glass wants the a public vote on the red plan. He said we want to separate the construction cost from the operational cost of the plan.
This is the second time that Glass will have brought this issue sense being elected in the last election.
The special meeting is about the red plan. Member Glass wants the a public vote on the red plan. He said we want to separate the construction cost from the operational cost of the plan.
This is the second time that Glass will have brought this issue sense being elected in the last election.
As thunder storms roll into Duluth.
As we have thunder storms rolling into the city, John McCain's camp has a potential storm brewing.
It seems like the vp pick of McCain had some dirt after all. Here it is, ready it is big news. Her 17 year old daughter that is getting married is having a child. Oh no what ever do we do with our self's now? Way to go left media. Who cares?
It seems like the vp pick of McCain had some dirt after all. Here it is, ready it is big news. Her 17 year old daughter that is getting married is having a child. Oh no what ever do we do with our self's now? Way to go left media. Who cares?
Home today.
Well as I am home today. I will be following some news worthy story's in the city of Duluth. The city is being suit by the union and it's leadership. The complaint is that part timers must go before full timers.
This is being heard today by the court if anything happens I will have it for you here. Also much more to come today.
This is being heard today by the court if anything happens I will have it for you here. Also much more to come today.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
New Poll
There is a new poll up. I have not done one for a while but here it is.
Would you give 23 cents a day for a year to the city? You can vote on the right side of this page.
Would you give 23 cents a day for a year to the city? You can vote on the right side of this page.
Would you give 23 cents a day to the city?
The Duluth News Tribune has a story in today's paper about yet another plan to try to solve the city's budget problems.
One man thinks that there is 60,000 that can afford to give 23 cents a day for one year in side the city of Duluth. I point out here that there is 85 thousand that live in Duluth. That means of 20 thousand would not have to take part in this project. That is wrong if one does everyone should.
The other point is we already pay we already pay taxes that are suppose to go to services. Yet they go ever were but to what they should. They have for years. Now to ask for extra money on top of taxes is the wrong time.
One man thinks that there is 60,000 that can afford to give 23 cents a day for one year in side the city of Duluth. I point out here that there is 85 thousand that live in Duluth. That means of 20 thousand would not have to take part in this project. That is wrong if one does everyone should.
The other point is we already pay we already pay taxes that are suppose to go to services. Yet they go ever were but to what they should. They have for years. Now to ask for extra money on top of taxes is the wrong time.
Part one on budget meeting last Monday.
I wanted to post this much earlyer but have been busy. I will have much more later.
At Mondays Duluth City Council meeting there were a number of resolutions talked about. It is unfortunate that none of the resolutions were in support of the administrations plan.
At last nights council meeting there were a lot of special interest groups and others that had an invested interest in the lay offs and cuts proposed by the Mayor and his administration. Many of those in attendance at the meeting were there representing the AFL-CIO.
City councilor Greg Gilbert’s resolution does nothing to solve the issue’s facing the city. Councilor Gilbert’s plan was for the very short term and this is a longer term problem facing the city. The administrations plan will set us up for 2009 and beyond. Well we will more then likely still be facing a deficit for 09’ under the mayor’s current plan. At least it sets up for a lesser issues facing the city for the upcoming years.
At Mondays Duluth City Council meeting there were a number of resolutions talked about. It is unfortunate that none of the resolutions were in support of the administrations plan.
At last nights council meeting there were a lot of special interest groups and others that had an invested interest in the lay offs and cuts proposed by the Mayor and his administration. Many of those in attendance at the meeting were there representing the AFL-CIO.
City councilor Greg Gilbert’s resolution does nothing to solve the issue’s facing the city. Councilor Gilbert’s plan was for the very short term and this is a longer term problem facing the city. The administrations plan will set us up for 2009 and beyond. Well we will more then likely still be facing a deficit for 09’ under the mayor’s current plan. At least it sets up for a lesser issues facing the city for the upcoming years.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
If I would have known
We are out of town this weekend. We are in the cities for a wedding and just relaxing. If I would have known however I would have been posting yesterday as a lot happened. I will post when we return home later today.
Obama picks running mate.
Obama picked his running mate however many knew the choose days before the announcement. The senator picked another senator. This will be the first time sense Kennedy ran that two senator's will be on the same ticket.
Obama made a safe pick by picking Joe Biden to be his running mate. I don't think it was the right chose.
More to come later.
Obama made a safe pick by picking Joe Biden to be his running mate. I don't think it was the right chose.
More to come later.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Some councilors don't like the layoffs.
As most people councilors wish layoffs did not have to happen. I also am sad by the news of layoffs it is never a good thing. It happens in the private sector when needed it should happen in government when needed as well.
Some councilors came out against the cut backs. The interesting part to note is that those councilors that came out against the layoffs were endorsed by AFSCME during the election. The three councilor with issues are 2nd district councilor Greg Gilbert, 3rd district councilor Sharla Gardner and at large councilor Jeff Anderson both above.
I will have more on this later.
Duluth Mayor Don Ness Layoffs have to happen.
As everyone is well aware by now last Friday Duluth Mayor Don Ness said lay offs were going to have to be part of the city's plan to reduce the deficit it faces. Among the hardest hit was the Duluth parks department. 169 employees would be laid off in all from the city. Again most cuts happened to parks and rec and the library.
I am hoping to have a short interview with the Mayor. I don't know if he will agree to do one or not. We will soon find out. He is normally pretty willing to take part however.
I am hoping to have a short interview with the Mayor. I don't know if he will agree to do one or not. We will soon find out. He is normally pretty willing to take part however.
Lots of post coming tonight.
There is and has been a lot going on. I will do my best to get things going here tonight.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Blues Fest
As I brought up in an earlier post could this next year be the beging of the end for the festival? Not having any in side information I think it could be. At very least in it could be the nearing the end to be held in Duluth.
It sure sounds like the changes being made are not positive for the festival also if you listened to the press conference or read the paper the tone there was not the best either. The lose of a day and a stage instead of an increase of five or ten dollars a ticket is alarming to me. I could deal with the lose of either a day or a stage but not both at the same time.
They also have said that attendance has been down to the festival in the past number of years. Well this is for one reason and mainly only one reason. I have had hundreds of people tell me this. Their has not been a major act to the festival for years (James Brown) was the last big one. How he is blues is beyond me but you know. Festival goers need more then a beautiful place to go and see good music. It is great that they bring in these acts from the cities but when you can go and see them any weekend you wish down there what is point of paying to see them up here. It is the major reason for a decline.
More to come =.
It sure sounds like the changes being made are not positive for the festival also if you listened to the press conference or read the paper the tone there was not the best either. The lose of a day and a stage instead of an increase of five or ten dollars a ticket is alarming to me. I could deal with the lose of either a day or a stage but not both at the same time.
They also have said that attendance has been down to the festival in the past number of years. Well this is for one reason and mainly only one reason. I have had hundreds of people tell me this. Their has not been a major act to the festival for years (James Brown) was the last big one. How he is blues is beyond me but you know. Festival goers need more then a beautiful place to go and see good music. It is great that they bring in these acts from the cities but when you can go and see them any weekend you wish down there what is point of paying to see them up here. It is the major reason for a decline.
More to come =.
Chicken can do?
Gosh I am so proud that Sharla Gardner is my council person . She seems to be in favor of having chickens in city limits. She said that because of the rising cost of everything including food it makes sense. What?
Okay I understand the rising cost of food and yes, I am okay with people using the land in the city that they can use. You can grow your own food. You can do a number of things. There are also other ways to save money well shopping.
This idea of raising chickens in side city limits however makes no sense what so ever. The regulation are long and they should be. There is not enough room between houses to do this that should be a major factor but it will not be. There is a nuisance law in tact as well but what is going to qualifie for it.
Fact is the city is no place to be raising chickens if you want to do this move to a farm.
I could say much more on this but I won't, I am going to let it go. I hope it does not take up a lot of time because the city faces larger issues.
The sinking ship that is: Al Franken
Al Franken trails by 15 points in the latest polls. He has lost ground from the start of this election. It is clear that Minnesota does not want him as there senator.
To add to all the problems he is having he held an event on Friday in St. Cloud were just one veteran showed up. http://www.sctimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080809/NEWS01/108080047/1009.
He thinks he is a funny person yet what is even funnier is his campaign. You can bet from now that the Franken team will plant people at there events to make sure there are people there. Next time you hear of a big crowd at his event you need to think how many of them are plants by the Franken campaign.
To add to all the problems he is having he held an event on Friday in St. Cloud were just one veteran showed up. http://www.sctimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080809/NEWS01/108080047/1009.
He thinks he is a funny person yet what is even funnier is his campaign. You can bet from now that the Franken team will plant people at there events to make sure there are people there. Next time you hear of a big crowd at his event you need to think how many of them are plants by the Franken campaign.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
The beging of the end?
With the changes coming to next years blues fest could it be the beginning of the end? The changes are as follows so far. No Thursday start time the festival will not start tell Friday. There will also cut out a stage and go from three to just two stages. This will also effect how many acts are able to come to the event.
More on this later.
To funny!
The Duluth News Tribune has became the Duluth Blues Tribune well the big blues fest has been going on here in Duluth.
It started Thursday and ends tonight. What is kinda of funny is that I am sure people are having fun with header.
It made me laugh when I first say it because I thought of all the nay say's of the paper and thinking they are blue when they read it. I have always enjoyed the paper and yes at times have be critical of it but you can't agree with a paper or a person ect... all the time.
I however believe in general the paper does a good job and many times is wrongly criticized.
It started Thursday and ends tonight. What is kinda of funny is that I am sure people are having fun with header.
It made me laugh when I first say it because I thought of all the nay say's of the paper and thinking they are blue when they read it. I have always enjoyed the paper and yes at times have be critical of it but you can't agree with a paper or a person ect... all the time.
I however believe in general the paper does a good job and many times is wrongly criticized.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Jack Shepard interview.
The Jack Shepard interview scheduled for today will go on. He is giving me a call around 10 this morning. I hope to have it up both here and on the interview page around noon if not before.
Update 2: Jack called back and left a message. Giving me a little background of him self. You can find more out about Jack if you wish on his web site. Listed in a previous post.
update: The interview with Jack is not going to happen. He called and was not the friendliest Person so I just thought it was best to not conduct the interview. He was combative right off the bat. This is something I don't believe in. I am always fair and not combative with those that I interview. I expect the same back.
Update 2: Jack called back and left a message. Giving me a little background of him self. You can find more out about Jack if you wish on his web site. Listed in a previous post.
update: The interview with Jack is not going to happen. He called and was not the friendliest Person so I just thought it was best to not conduct the interview. He was combative right off the bat. This is something I don't believe in. I am always fair and not combative with those that I interview. I expect the same back.
Duluth Maritime Festivale.
Well it seems like it was a great event it also seems like there were some problems. The event drew more then Grandams Marithon and the Bayfront Blues fest. However just days after the festivale has ended complaints seem to be coming in.
Many of those that came had to wait in long lines and many people thought there was little to no orginzation of the event. Accouting to a story in Duluth News Tribune today. You can read the whole article at the papers web site www.duluthnewstribune.com.
I am hoping to get a hold of Gene Shaw for his take on this. I think the event was great and hope that if there were some problems they can be worked out for the next event. I was unable to get down there durning the weekend but did get there on Monday to take a look at the remainng ship. There was still a lot of people this is great for the community.
Many of those that came had to wait in long lines and many people thought there was little to no orginzation of the event. Accouting to a story in Duluth News Tribune today. You can read the whole article at the papers web site www.duluthnewstribune.com.
I am hoping to get a hold of Gene Shaw for his take on this. I think the event was great and hope that if there were some problems they can be worked out for the next event. I was unable to get down there durning the weekend but did get there on Monday to take a look at the remainng ship. There was still a lot of people this is great for the community.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Republican party to open campaign office in Duluth.
Today the republican party of Minnesota announced they will open an office in Duluth. The office will be located in the plaza shopping center next to Great Harvest Bread company. The office will open on Wednesday and be used right away as there is a call bank session that night.
Interview
I will be interviewing Jack Sheperd tomorrow morning. I am grateful that Mr. Sheperd has agreed to the interview. I have told him that I don't agree with him but that does not mean I can't be fair. I have done a number of interviews with people I don't agree with and we walk away friends most of the time.
If you have a question you would like me to ask him you can leave a comment here or email it to me at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com . As always I will have finale say on the question.
Mr Sheperd is running against Norm Coleman in the republican primary. Once the interview is complete I will post it here and on the interview page.
If you have a question you would like me to ask him you can leave a comment here or email it to me at duluthneedshelp@yahoo.com . As always I will have finale say on the question.
Mr Sheperd is running against Norm Coleman in the republican primary. Once the interview is complete I will post it here and on the interview page.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
LOL
This lady Priscilla Lord Faris is running against Al Franken for the Democrats. She has been a long time DFLer. See is not happy that Al is so far behind. In the latest polls Coleman is 15 points better the Franken. Coleman would be well better then that is this lady was there candidate.
Progressive action to host 7B forum.
One of the far left groups in Duluth will host a forum for all the 7B candidates. The forum will take place on Aug.13 5:30 to 7 pm and it will take place in city council chambers. They say that no candidate will be given the question early. Yet we all know that is not true. All six candidates have said they will be there.
As the politcal season keeps moving foward be sure we will have the coverage.
I have not been able to post as much as I would like to as of late. However that will change and you will see more posting in the next few days. Not only then but as the political season picks up we will have the coverage here for you.
I will also post on our other pages. I also hope that the others that are involved in the board will post as well.
I will also post on our other pages. I also hope that the others that are involved in the board will post as well.
It seems like the Democrats put in one of your own in the GOP party.
This guy is running against Norm Coleman in the republican party, http://www.jackshepardforsenate.com/. What a joke he will not get more then 2% of the vote.
It seems like the Democrats found one of there own that would pretend to be a republican and run against Norm. Yes I know that Norm was once a Dumocrat but then he say the light and came to the good side. Yes politician's change party's all the time but it is clear this that Jack Shepard is the farthest thing from a republican.
One of the first people he apples to on his web site is Democrats and independents he wants nothing to do with the party.
It seems like the Democrats found one of there own that would pretend to be a republican and run against Norm. Yes I know that Norm was once a Dumocrat but then he say the light and came to the good side. Yes politician's change party's all the time but it is clear this that Jack Shepard is the farthest thing from a republican.
One of the first people he apples to on his web site is Democrats and independents he wants nothing to do with the party.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Tonights huskies game
You can get live updates on the huskies on the sports page. www.dpsportspage.blogspot.com
Also more news will be posted here at least we are hoping. So check out both pages tonight.
Also more news will be posted here at least we are hoping. So check out both pages tonight.
Gas plumits 30 cents.
Gas has dropped over the last 10 days to 3.75 or 30 cents from its all time high of 4.05. It looks like gas for the mean time will continue to drop.
Leno takes on Mayor Ness.
Late night talk show host Jay Leno tells Mayor Ness how it is. Leno took the opportunity to tell the Mayor like it was in a joke. Leno used Duluth and Mayor Ness's ordinance change making people pay for some emergency services.
Leno said is that not what we pay taxes for. It most have took this to open the Mayors eyes. After the joke Mayor Ness very quickly took his ordinance off the table that was then accepted by the council.
Now I wonder if the talk show host will take issue with the police and fire doing the two jobs together. I sure hope so.
Leno said is that not what we pay taxes for. It most have took this to open the Mayors eyes. After the joke Mayor Ness very quickly took his ordinance off the table that was then accepted by the council.
Now I wonder if the talk show host will take issue with the police and fire doing the two jobs together. I sure hope so.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Talk of the Town.
I was not able to produce the show this weekend as I worked at my main job. Tracy had Brandon Stahl on talking about Burgers.
The thing that caught my attion was Roger Reinert who is running for the vacated seat of 7B Representative. Jaros is not seeking re-election this time. Reinert a Duluth City Councilor was the first to announce he was running for the seat.
I was impressed with what he said I did not agree with everything. I do however think he is the best DFL candidate at this point. If that is the way you vote.
I will have more later.
The thing that caught my attion was Roger Reinert who is running for the vacated seat of 7B Representative. Jaros is not seeking re-election this time. Reinert a Duluth City Councilor was the first to announce he was running for the seat.
I was impressed with what he said I did not agree with everything. I do however think he is the best DFL candidate at this point. If that is the way you vote.
I will have more later.
Duluth News Tribune
I thought this was kinda of funny and clever by the DNT. If you picked up a hard copy of the paper you would have seen it.
One of the front page story's were how the food shelves are having troubles keeping up with demand because of gas prices and just not enough donations. Now everyone is going to have troubles with the gas prices going up and up. Here is what I thought was clever. Right above that story they had a grocery bag with a money sign and it said over $119.00 in coupons.
Now back to the story if you can help with donations to the food shelve please do. We have a huge need for the food shelve.
One of the front page story's were how the food shelves are having troubles keeping up with demand because of gas prices and just not enough donations. Now everyone is going to have troubles with the gas prices going up and up. Here is what I thought was clever. Right above that story they had a grocery bag with a money sign and it said over $119.00 in coupons.
Now back to the story if you can help with donations to the food shelve please do. We have a huge need for the food shelve.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Gas hits four dollars a gallon.
Well it happened gas hit four dollars yesterday in Duluth. Gas went down in the morning to $3.95 but then in the afternoon took the 10 cent jump to over four dollars a gallon.
The gas stations in Duluth were doing all they could to not go to four dollars a gallon, but with a barrel of oil hitting yet another all time high they could no longer hold out. The average around the country has been around $4.17 well it had held steady in Duluth at $3.98 for some time.
The new poll will be up and have to do with gas prices.
The gas stations in Duluth were doing all they could to not go to four dollars a gallon, but with a barrel of oil hitting yet another all time high they could no longer hold out. The average around the country has been around $4.17 well it had held steady in Duluth at $3.98 for some time.
The new poll will be up and have to do with gas prices.
Tony Snow gone at the age of 53.
One of President Bush's former press secretary has died at the age of 53. Tony Snow was the third spokesman that served under the Bush administration.
Snow retired his post because of the colon cancer the cancer won out and took his life far to early. Snow was also a writer and worked for Fox news and Fox radio.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Snow family.
Snow retired his post because of the colon cancer the cancer won out and took his life far to early. Snow was also a writer and worked for Fox news and Fox radio.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Snow family.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Jesse Venture to run for Senator?
The political version of Brett Farve would be Jesse Venture. Venture a former Governor of Minnesota (unfortunately). May or may not run for Senate seat currently being held by Norm Coleman. http://www.colemanforsenate.com/
Current Senator Norm Coleman already has one challenger the democrat endorsed candidate Al Franken, http://www.colemanforsenate.com/. Franken a former talk show host on Air America and comedian has had trouble as of late. He has had many issues face him head on in his big to unseat Senator Coleman. The race however is long from over.
There could be more challengers on top of the former Governor Jesse Venture.
More to come later.
Current Senator Norm Coleman already has one challenger the democrat endorsed candidate Al Franken, http://www.colemanforsenate.com/. Franken a former talk show host on Air America and comedian has had trouble as of late. He has had many issues face him head on in his big to unseat Senator Coleman. The race however is long from over.
There could be more challengers on top of the former Governor Jesse Venture.
More to come later.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Marsh Stenersen
Marsh Stenersen was at Bayfront yesterday campaigning at Fourth Fest. Here is what I find very interesting.
His slogan is people not politics yet that is all he has done his life is politics. How can anyone expect him to work for all of 7B?
More later.
His slogan is people not politics yet that is all he has done his life is politics. How can anyone expect him to work for all of 7B?
More later.
Notes
This last week when I had time to post there was not much going on. I could have went over a bunch of old stuff that I never got a chance to go over but did not think that would be to interesting to many of you so I did not do it. As I said please be keep checking back I post when I can. I try to make at least three post a week I have not been able to lately but should be able to start again soon to do that and more.
However with that we stayed in town last night to watch the fireworks but will be leaving for a mini vacation this am and will return Tuesday. After this morning there will be nothing tell Tuesday or Wednesday.
However with that we stayed in town last night to watch the fireworks but will be leaving for a mini vacation this am and will return Tuesday. After this morning there will be nothing tell Tuesday or Wednesday.
Monday, June 30, 2008
The Herbie book.
I had heard rumor of a Herb Bergson book for some time. Yesterday the Duluth News Tribune confirmed this in a story they did about Bergson.
The book is two talk about being mayor of two city's Superior and Duluth. It seems that the first number of chapters were easy for Bergson to write but now it has slowed down. He is apparently take his time on the last years of his Duluth Mayor part of the book. This is because of the contrivers he faced along with tough issues that faced the city. Also expected in the book is why he fired Mark Winson the way he did and the Drunk driving charge he received well Duluth Mayor.
I am not sure I would ever by a book about this man however I am sure many people would. Bergson is an interesting person that is for sure.
The book is two talk about being mayor of two city's Superior and Duluth. It seems that the first number of chapters were easy for Bergson to write but now it has slowed down. He is apparently take his time on the last years of his Duluth Mayor part of the book. This is because of the contrivers he faced along with tough issues that faced the city. Also expected in the book is why he fired Mark Winson the way he did and the Drunk driving charge he received well Duluth Mayor.
I am not sure I would ever by a book about this man however I am sure many people would. Bergson is an interesting person that is for sure.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
The experince.
Well it seems like the Norshore is in the news again. This time police are asking that the city revokes it's liquor linces.
The police are alleging that they have made 49 calls to the place in question sense September. The allegations include drug sales, drug use, thefts, fights and vulgar sex acts.
Now it is clear that the city never wanted the Norshore to be come a gentleman's club. That was made very clear at the beginning by many. I have never been to the place but I was also not against it opening. After all it is a private building and as long as the business is legal they do what they want with any building. A gentleman's club is legal. It may not be my type of thing but that does not mean they can't operate.
Jim Gradishar is the president of the Norshore Experience and he said he is willing to work with the city on the issues.
Mr. Gradishar attorney said this and I agree with him in part.
“It took a federal court injunction to get this establishment open, and it’s clear that the city has never been comfortable with that injunction and is obviously trying to trump up anything it can to get the place closed down,’’ Tigue said.
To me this quote from police chief Gordon Ramsey only ensures what the attorney is saying.
“Our law enforcement efforts are based on what the community desires,’’ Ramsay said. “If you talk to businesses on that block and in that surrounding area, it’s obvious there’s a problem there. Look at our calls for service in that area.’’
More to come later. Some info is from the Duluth News Tribune, www.duluthnewstribune.com
The police are alleging that they have made 49 calls to the place in question sense September. The allegations include drug sales, drug use, thefts, fights and vulgar sex acts.
Now it is clear that the city never wanted the Norshore to be come a gentleman's club. That was made very clear at the beginning by many. I have never been to the place but I was also not against it opening. After all it is a private building and as long as the business is legal they do what they want with any building. A gentleman's club is legal. It may not be my type of thing but that does not mean they can't operate.
Jim Gradishar is the president of the Norshore Experience and he said he is willing to work with the city on the issues.
Mr. Gradishar attorney said this and I agree with him in part.
“It took a federal court injunction to get this establishment open, and it’s clear that the city has never been comfortable with that injunction and is obviously trying to trump up anything it can to get the place closed down,’’ Tigue said.
To me this quote from police chief Gordon Ramsey only ensures what the attorney is saying.
“Our law enforcement efforts are based on what the community desires,’’ Ramsay said. “If you talk to businesses on that block and in that surrounding area, it’s obvious there’s a problem there. Look at our calls for service in that area.’’
More to come later. Some info is from the Duluth News Tribune, www.duluthnewstribune.com
Notes- Still here.
I have gotten a number of emails the last couple of weeks asking if I was still going to post. Simple answer yes. I have not had the time to post as much as I would like to. I am working a ton right now. I am working 80 hour work weeks give or take an hour either way. Therefor leaving little time to post. I will however post when I can.
There has been a lot going on and I have to a lot to say so I hope to be doing post here today and tomorrow night for sure.
Grandmas marathon is offer, I will have more on that on the sports page later as well. The Huskies finely snap there losing steak and start a winning streak. Also will be on the sports page later.
Coming up here later, the lose of a fire truck? The cut that mayor is asking for and my thoughts and more.
Stay tuned!!!!
There has been a lot going on and I have to a lot to say so I hope to be doing post here today and tomorrow night for sure.
Grandmas marathon is offer, I will have more on that on the sports page later as well. The Huskies finely snap there losing steak and start a winning streak. Also will be on the sports page later.
Coming up here later, the lose of a fire truck? The cut that mayor is asking for and my thoughts and more.
Stay tuned!!!!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Play front park.
I am glad that the park will be staying at Bayfront park in Duluth. Some city officials and residents wanted to move the park. It would have been a shame to not have a park at Bay front.
The park will see some much needed upgrades. The park is getting old and needs to be updated but I hope they don't go to the all plastic like so many parks are now. The wood sets the park a side and fits in well with the setting of the rest of the area.
The park will see some much needed upgrades. The park is getting old and needs to be updated but I hope they don't go to the all plastic like so many parks are now. The wood sets the park a side and fits in well with the setting of the rest of the area.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
sports page.
The sports page has some new story on it. check it out by clicking on the sports page link. The Huskies are tops on the list.
Walgreens looking into Kenwood site.
I have a lot to say about this but for now go to www.duluthnewstribune.com to read about it. I am on the way out the door. More very soon.
We are watching
Below is a statement from the we are watching groups web page. http://watchingslc.blogspot.com/.
We Welcome Contributors!
If you'd like to contribute to the blog, you can comment on posts that exist, or, write a quick email to WeAreWatching@northernmnnews.com and we'll quickly add you to the list of approved commentators.We welcome you and we want your views.
That is unless you disagree with. Have you ever noticed that it is one site that does not like to discuss the issues. I have always been more then willing to allow all view points on this blog. Some just don't.
We Welcome Contributors!
If you'd like to contribute to the blog, you can comment on posts that exist, or, write a quick email to WeAreWatching@northernmnnews.com and we'll quickly add you to the list of approved commentators.We welcome you and we want your views.
That is unless you disagree with. Have you ever noticed that it is one site that does not like to discuss the issues. I have always been more then willing to allow all view points on this blog. Some just don't.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
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.
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.
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.
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