[Mpls] Surviving and Deffending Myself against the Local Drug Dealers on 6th St 23rd Av N
HI This is being written after an evening that should have been spent chairing the CRIME PREVENTION FAMILY SAFETY COMMITTEE for the HAWTHORNE Area Community Council. Instead I spent it in my home hoping that nothing else would happen tonight. On my way home I dared to drive down 6th Street in front of my house, after turning the corner and waiting for a drug deal to be completed. The dealer had not cleared the street before I proceeded. He Accused me of trying to hit him and proceeded to come after my car, I simply drove around the block to go into my Garage. In doing this I noticed the dealer running thru the yards next to mine. So I went over 2 blocks to avoid him. After turning the next corner I noticed a car stopped in the middle of the street. As I approached out of the alley came the dug dealer a Large stick or part of a branch in his hand, as he started to throw it at me from less than foot away my cell phone made connection with 911. At the same time I am trying to back away from the dealer, but there is now a car behind me and I can't go far. Finally the car in front moves and so can I. The dealer is running assuming that I will head for my driveway and SAFETY of my Garage, he has picked up a chunk of cement and is waiting for me by my Garage LUCKILY I am watching. I did not turn into the alley and my Driveway or I would not be typing this to you tonight. Well last week the Chief of Police CANCELLED a meeting with me that had been scheduled TWO MONTHS AGO because there is no need to meet with the Public and discuss concerns and or Problems as we see them. This was after he said yes lets sit down and discuss this. DO you suppose he would have shown if I had been Killed by this Drug DEALER TONIGHT. I guess he showed a few weeks ago after someone was shot next door Buying drugs and died down the block. Well RT the last time I talked to you was right before this person was shot. Is that what it's going to take to get response again. I hope not. Your Police Chief certainly seems to think that is the only time that he should be dealing with the public. After all My Police staff was certainly working with me tonight, even from home and their child's soccer game. Yes HACC did have a Crime Prevention Family Safety Committee Meeting last night now, I made sure of that after I was able to return to my house. Sorry if this was kind scattered. Joan Thom Hawthorne REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Death: William Sayles Jr., 79, was father of former Minneapolis mayor
Posted on Tue, Jul. 12, 2005 William Sayles Jr., 79, was father of former Minneapolis mayor Pioneer Press William Wellford Bill Sayles Jr., the father of former Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton and the first African-American auto salesman in St. Paul, died Thursday. He was 79. Sayles was born in St. Paul and, like his father, was very active in the Rondo neighborhood, the historic center of the city's black community until it was razed for the construction of Interstate 94. In later years, he became youth director and commander of American Legion Post 425 and worked closely with Maxfield Elementary School to promote civic pride and academic excellence. He was teaching them about civic pride and patriotism and doing homework, Sayles Belton said. Sayles remained active in Legion activities until about six months ago, Sayles Belton said. He died at the VA Medical Center at Fort Snelling after battling a number of health problems. He served in the Navy during World War II and then returned to work at Midway Ford, first as a mechanic and later as the city's first African-American car salesman. We were quite fortunate as young girls because every new model that came out, we got to ride in because he brought those fancy cars home, Sayles Belton said. Sayles later went to work for Wheelabrator and retired in 1991. Sayles Belton recalled her father as a man who enjoyed talking to people. My father was a storyteller, she said. He loved telling stories. He told stories about the war, about growing up in St. Paul, about interesting characters he had met and about his five daughters. The other four became a nurse, a teacher, an electrical engineer and an accountant, Sayles Belton said. He was quite proud of our careers, she said. Sayles is survived by daughters Talayah Bayne, Renee Sayles, Sharon Sayles Belton, Sheila Arrington and Sandra Henry; sisters Elenora Sayles, Marcella Marzitelli, Ayesha Ecmaan-Sayles and Binta Colley; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A celebration of Sayles' life will take place at noon Wednesday at St. Peter's AME Church, 401 E. 41st St., in Minneapolis, with visitation at 11 a.m. Burial is at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Shawn Lewis, Minnetonka -- ___ Sign-up for Ads Free at Mail.com http://promo.mail.com/adsfreejump.htm REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Shoefiti
This is the biggest Urban Myth...Seems pretty stupid to devote so much time and energy into shoefiti David Brady Downtown REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Surviving and Deffending Myself against the Local Drug Dealers on 6th St 23rd Av N
What happened to the other people in this community to allow a woman to be repeatedly assaulted in public by a criminal? Someone should have intervened with force. If the story Joan tells is accurate she was being assaulted by a criminal using possibly deadly weapons and force against her. A large stick and a chunk of cement. A police officer in similar circumstance would have been justified in shooting the assailant. I can assure readers that anytime I witness a woman being threatened by someone with a stick or chunk of concrete someone is truly in grave danger. Someone should have beaten that jerk within an inch of his life while subduing him for the police. A person acting in such a manner should be hunted down like the mad dog he is. Is it any wonder that police morale is so low? Police officers must feel the shame that they do not have sufficient numbers to protect women and children in our City. Such open attacks are arrogant thumbing of the nose at the police department. Police officers truely do care, and word of such acts must cut good police officers to the bone with outrage. To bad the City's politicians do not share that moral outrage with the officers. Has our City fallen so low that women must go armed to enter their own house or garage? When will the Mayor take seriously this situation? If he can not, or will not address this problem, then when will he call in the County and State to provide the adequate public safety Minneapolis deserves? Even one instance of a woman being so openly attacked while attempting to enter her house should be taken as an emergency situation. Perhaps the County needs to discuss intervening in Minneapolis if the Mayor and Council will not provide adequate funding for adequate numbers of police! Must people like Joan apply for permits to carry pistols to protect themselves while entering their own garages, because the City of Minneapolis cares so little for women in poor neighborhoods? Well, off to work while still fuming with moral outrage and shame that in Minneapolis the politicians, who I helped to get elected, care so little for those in poor neighborhoods. Jim Graham, Ventura Village REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Library Board Candidate Forums
The Friends of the Minneapolis Public Library are hosting 10 forums for Library Board candidates, beginning next week and stretching through most of August. The schedule is as follows: 1. July 21, 6:30 - 8 @ Franklin Community Library 2. July 23, 2 - 3:30 @ Washburn Community Library 3. July 27, 6:30 - 8 @ Northeast Community Library 4. July 28, 6:30 - 8 @ Nokomis Community Library 5. August 1, 6:30 - 8 @ Southeast Community Library 6. August 4, 6:30 - 8 @ Linden Hills Community Library 7. August 8, 6:30 - 8 at Pierre Bottineau Community Library 8. August 11, 6:30 - 8 @ Sumner Community Library 9. August 16, 6:30 - 8 @ Hosmer Community Library 10. August 20, 2 - 3:30 @ Walker Community Library Addresses for specific libraries are available at www.mplib.org http://www.mplib.org/ . We would appreciate whatever people on this list can do to help promote these forums within your communities/networks. Between continuing budget reductions, major capital projects, and on-going threats on personal privacy and the free expression of ideas, there is a critical slate of issues for the next Library Board to address. We hope these forums are informative for both community members and the candidates themselves. We also encourage citizens concerned about library issues to NOT limit library issues to library board candidates this summer and fall. The Mayor, City Council and Board of Estimates Taxation all make critical decisions regarding library funding, and candidates for all of those offices should be asked how library services rank as a city priority, and how they would help improve our library system. Visit the links off http://www.friendsofmpl.org/Friends_advocacy2005.html to learn more. Colin Hamilton Executive Director The Friends of the Minneapolis Public Library [EMAIL PROTECTED] 612/630-6172 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Skyway News to become Downtown Journal
Here's the official press release - feel free to send questions/ comments to me, or to the list if appropriate, or to Janis if you like. For Immediate Release For information, contact: Janis Hall, Co-Publisher Skyway News Minnesota Premier Publications, Inc. 612-825-9205 Skyway News to evolve into Downtown Journal: Minneapolis’ downtown newspaper Minneapolis, Minnesota July 11, 2005 – Minnesota Premier Publications, Inc., announced today that its publication, Skyway News, the 35-year-old downtown weekly newspaper, will be reflagged as Downtown Journal in September. The new name reflects the changing mix of workers and residents downtown in Minneapolis, and better positions it as Minneapolis’ downtown newspaper. “Downtown Journal symbolizes the evolution that’s been going on since we bought Skyway News in 2001 — covering not just the skyways, but booming areas like the Mill District, Loring Park, North Loop, Elliot Park and the Mississippi riverfront,” editor David Brauer said. “We’re proud that we’ve become a highly credible news source, and the new name underscores another goal: helping everyone who lives and works here enjoy downtown to the fullest.” Skyway News has tracked the downtown’s growth, from fewer than 10,000 residents a few years ago to 30,000 now and perhaps 50,000 in the next decade. Said co-publisher Janis Hall, “We’re building on the history of Skyway News, which has served downtown workers and businesses for more than 30 years. And, we’re expanding to serve a broader mix of people and activity to cover, as our tagline states, Your Life Downtown.” Skyway News will share front-page flag space with Downtown Journal until September, when Downtown Journal takes the front page position and Skyway News becomes a label for business and work content. Minnesota Premier Publications, Inc. is the parent company and publisher of Skyway News, Southwest Journal, Minnesota Parent and Minnesota Good Age. With the recent acquisition of Good Age from the Wilder Foundation, and more than 20 years of experience in publishing and reporting, Minnesota Premier Publications’ family of publications cover the range of demographic segments in the Twin Cities marketplace. ### David Brauer KingfieldREMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] re: shoefitti
Well maybe, given my name and all, I'm biased, but why are these shoes such a problem? I think they look cool. I wish we had more shoe art in Northeast. Unfortunately the map doesn't quite extend far enough north to pinpoint the one location with many many times the number of suspended shoes of everywhere else in the city combined--the famous shoe tree by the Washington Avenue bridge over the Mizzippi river. Seemingly hundreds of pairs of shoes dropped by U studentsand they've been there for years. Ironically, a friend of mine needed some shoes a while back and saw a pair up in that tree that looked to be in great condition and, quite possibly, the right size. When she started climbing up to get them, she was actually yelled at by a UofM security guard and told to come down and to leave the shoes alone! Bruce Shoemaker Holland neighborhood -- Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2005 00:12:44 -0500 From: Ed Kohler [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Mpls] Shoefiti To: mpls@mnforum.org Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Here's an update on the Shoefiti scene: One of my initial comments on this Shoefiti thread was about why it's so much easier to get shoes taken down in Longfellow vs. other areas of the city. That didn't receive any comments so far, but to me is one of the more interesting things I've noticed. In the last couple weeks, Google launched Google Earth, which among other things, allows individuals to upload data points onto maps. I think it helps put things in perspective. Here's an image of Minneapolis from approximately France to the Mississippi (W to E) and Franklin to Hwy 62 (N to S) with Shoefiti plotted. http://www.4factors.com/pics/graffiti/shoefiti-july05.jpg Each marker is time stamped with when I first spotted the shoes. Blue markers represent shoes that have been removed, while yellow markers represent shoes still hanging. Notice anything different about the locations of blue vs. yellow? By the way, there is one blue dot somewhat hidden on 5th Ave S. It represents a pair that used to hang over the Greenway trail, so probably the least confrontational location for a pair of shoes in that neighborhood. It was reported at same exact time as the other March 28, 2005 shoes. It's been mentioned that shoes can end up on lines for various reasons, and none are particularly clear. I decided to sketch out a few rough reasons why they may end up on the lines. Keep in mind that I'm no psychologist. The following theories where thrown together based on my own experiences, conversations on this forum, and common graffiti motivations based on some online research: 1. Drug Dealing How used: Used to let drug buyers know drugs can be purchased in the area. Where found: Combination of visible and discrete location. Found along main drags signaling buyers to turn. Found at intersections to, and mid-block within alleys near drug houses. 2. Prostitution How used: Used to let Johns know prostitutes are in area. Where found: Parking lots, vacant lots, and other pickup spots. 3. Notoriety How used: Thrown over lines commonly passed by friends. Where found: Highly visible areas, including busy intersections, over major streets/highways. 4. Hazing How used: Mild practical joke played on friend. Where found: Likely at common ground of affinity group, such as next to sports field. 5. Memorial How used: Shoes of someone who has passed away are hung from power line to pay tribute to the dead. Where found: Near home of person who died, or near site where death occurred. 6. Marking Attack / Killing How used: Shoes of victim of attack or murder. Where found: Site of killing, or near residence of victim. Any comments / questions on the above would be appreciated. Returning to my original questions: I'm looking for ideas on: 1. How to get the shoes down 2. How to get Xcel to respond with the same regularity I've seen in Longfellow 3. Who's truly responsible for what's hanging from the power lines? What's the process for dealing with them? 4. Does anyone know of a more efficient process for getting the shoes down? Still looking for answers there. Is it possible that some of the shoes are not on Xcel property, but Time Warner's lines? I don't know the difference, but is it possible that Xcel would drive out to a location based on a ticket they've received, then leave once determining that the shoes are 3 feet below the lines they're responsible for, and not follow up with a call explaining this? - Ed Kohler Shoeless in Cooper REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html
[Mpls] Baseball, Hotdogs, Apple Pie and E-Democracy
RSVP TODAY! Come one, come all to the E-Democracy.org Saint Paul Saints baseball and tailgating fundraiser! It's a great opportunity to celebrate and support E-Democracy.org and help show our international visitors (attending the International E-Democracy Symposium) a piece of Americana. The party will include a general admission ticket to the game and tailgating with brats, chips, pop, and a treat. We may have to include a giant Jello salad for the visitors. If you haven't been to a Saints game, we want you to know that it's not just for baseball lovers. There's a kids area in the park, you can get a massage from Sister Rosalind, and there are lots of mid-inning activities on and off the field. When: July 25 - evening (tailgate at 5:00; game at 7:00) Where: Saints Stadium on Energy Park Drive in St Paul Cost: $15 for 1 ticket; $25 for 2; $30 for a family up to 4 (after that please add $5 per kid) Please send an check in advance to Minnesota E- Democracy E-Democracy Saints Event c/o Ann Treacy, 1841 Fairmount Avenue, St Paul MN 55105. To reserve a spot please RSVP to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Let us know how many tickets you'd like and if you have a special request (like vegetarian not dog) or a special Jello desert you want to share. If you can let us know by Tuesday, July 12 that would help; we'd love to order most of the tickets then. What's this about an international symposium? On July 26-27, Minneapolis will be hosting an International Symposium on Local E-Democracy http://dowire.org/localedem and our gathering would double as the pre-conference event. Hope to see you there - don't forget your sunglasses! Best wishes, Tim Erickson E-Democracy.Org St. Paul, MN 651-643-0722 REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] ' North Star'
Citrus Punch It is unimaginable to envision Samuels as a 'North Star'- he who is STILL enthralled with his 'mulatto / Big House ' grandparents and derisive of his'field slave' grandmother, We don't know much about her, grandfather never spoke about her, we think she must have been a field slave. He would have never left the plantation and the big house / after all- this is where they saw piano lessons being taught, and books being read , .! Our advantage ( family) that we enjoyed over the other folk in our village is a direct result of my grandfathers being the last of the mulatto slaves who lived in the big house ( D.Samuels) The True North Star proclaimed - You gon be free or dead, cause dead Negroes don't tell no tales ! Jeanne Harris / Near North, 5th Ward jh REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] ' North Star'
Crimney. Can't we move on? This seems like a real misrepresentation of what Samuels meant. I don't live in the 5th, but as a city resident, watching this play out is depressing. We can't seem to get to the point of what these elected representatives have done, and how their work in City Hall indicates what they will do. Instead, it's a hall of racial mirrors with words being twisting to make candidates appear like insensitive monsters, rather than people. Personally, I think it stinks and I wish it would stop. David Brauer Kingfield On Jul 12, 2005, at 10:02 AM, jeanneharris wrote: Citrus Punch It is unimaginable to envision Samuels as a 'North Star'- he who is STILL enthralled with his 'mulatto / Big House ' grandparents and derisive of his'field slave' grandmother, We don't know much about her, grandfather never spoke about her, we think she must have been a field slave. He would have never left the plantation and the big house / after all- this is where they saw piano lessons being taught, and books being read , .! Our advantage ( family) that we enjoyed over the other folk in our village is a direct result of my grandfathers being the last of the mulatto slaves who lived in the big house ( D.Samuels) The True North Star proclaimed - You gon be free or dead, cause dead Negroes don't tell no tales ! Jeanne Harris / Near North, 5th Ward jh REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e- democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/ discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] ' North Star'
I 2nd David Brauer's thoughts. Let the candidates stand on their merits. Whether someone's anncestors were house slaves, or field workers, or corporate executives should have no bearing on this election. dennis plante lind-bohanon REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] re: shoefitti
The shoes are as ubiquitous as the drug dealing in many parts of Phillips, and I guess I am inclined to associate them as well. It's really one of the many indicators of state of the neighborhood, like grafitti, trash or boarded buildings. Shoes all over the wires say that something is going on. Connie Nompelis West Phillips Powderhorn --- Bruce Shoemaker [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well maybe, given my name and all, I'm biased, but why are these shoes such a problem? I think they look cool. I wish we had more shoe art in Northeast. Unfortunately the map doesn't quite extend far enough north to pinpoint the one location with many many times the number of suspended shoes of everywhere else in the city combined--the famous shoe tree by the Washington Avenue bridge over the Mizzippi river. Seemingly hundreds of pairs of shoes dropped by U studentsand they've been there for years. Ironically, a friend of mine needed some shoes a while back and saw a pair up in that tree that looked to be in great condition and, quite possibly, the right size. When she started climbing up to get them, she was actually yelled at by a UofM security guard and told to come down and to leave the shoes alone! Bruce Shoemaker Holland neighborhood -- Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2005 00:12:44 -0500 From: Ed Kohler [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Mpls] Shoefiti To: mpls@mnforum.org Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Here's an update on the Shoefiti scene: One of my initial comments on this Shoefiti thread was about why it's so much easier to get shoes taken down in Longfellow vs. other areas of the city. That didn't receive any comments so far, but to me is one of the more interesting things I've noticed. In the last couple weeks, Google launched Google Earth, which among other things, allows individuals to upload data points onto maps. I think it helps put things in perspective. Here's an image of Minneapolis from approximately France to the Mississippi (W to E) and Franklin to Hwy 62 (N to S) with Shoefiti plotted. http://www.4factors.com/pics/graffiti/shoefiti-july05.jpg Each marker is time stamped with when I first spotted the shoes. Blue markers represent shoes that have been removed, while yellow markers represent shoes still hanging. Notice anything different about the locations of blue vs. yellow? By the way, there is one blue dot somewhat hidden on 5th Ave S. It represents a pair that used to hang over the Greenway trail, so probably the least confrontational location for a pair of shoes in that neighborhood. It was reported at same exact time as the other March 28, 2005 shoes. It's been mentioned that shoes can end up on lines for various reasons, and none are particularly clear. I decided to sketch out a few rough reasons why they may end up on the lines. Keep in mind that I'm no psychologist. The following theories where thrown together based on my own experiences, conversations on this forum, and common graffiti motivations based on some online research: 1. Drug Dealing How used: Used to let drug buyers know drugs can be purchased in the area. Where found: Combination of visible and discrete location. Found along main drags signaling buyers to turn. Found at intersections to, and mid-block within alleys near drug houses. 2. Prostitution How used: Used to let Johns know prostitutes are in area. Where found: Parking lots, vacant lots, and other pickup spots. 3. Notoriety How used: Thrown over lines commonly passed by friends. Where found: Highly visible areas, including busy intersections, over major streets/highways. 4. Hazing How used: Mild practical joke played on friend. Where found: Likely at common ground of affinity group, such as next to sports field. 5. Memorial How used: Shoes of someone who has passed away are hung from power line to pay tribute to the dead. Where found: Near home of person who died, or near site where death occurred. 6. Marking Attack / Killing How used: Shoes of victim of attack or murder. Where found: Site of killing, or near residence of victim. Any comments / questions on the above would be appreciated. Returning to my original questions: I'm looking for ideas on: 1. How to get the shoes down 2. How to get Xcel to respond with the same regularity I've seen in Longfellow 3. Who's truly responsible for what's hanging from the power lines? What's the process for dealing with them? 4. Does anyone know of a more efficient process for getting the shoes down? Still looking for answers there. Is it possible that some of the shoes are not on Xcel property, but Time Warner's lines? I don't know the difference, but is it possible that Xcel would drive out to a location based on a ticket they've
Re: [Mpls] re: shoefitti
The shoes are as ubiquitous as the drug dealing in many parts of Phillips, and I guess I am inclined to associate them as well. It's really one of the many indicators of state of the neighborhood, like grafitti, trash or boarded buildings. Shoes all over the wires say that something is going on. Connie Nompelis Phillips Powderhorn --- Bruce Shoemaker [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well maybe, given my name and all, I'm biased, but why are these shoes such a problem? I think they look cool. I wish we had more shoe art in Northeast. Unfortunately the map doesn't quite extend far enough north to pinpoint the one location with many many times the number of suspended shoes of everywhere else in the city combined--the famous shoe tree by the Washington Avenue bridge over the Mizzippi river. Seemingly hundreds of pairs of shoes dropped by U studentsand they've been there for years. Ironically, a friend of mine needed some shoes a while back and saw a pair up in that tree that looked to be in great condition and, quite possibly, the right size. When she started climbing up to get them, she was actually yelled at by a UofM security guard and told to come down and to leave the shoes alone! Bruce Shoemaker Holland neighborhood -- Date: Tue, 12 Jul 2005 00:12:44 -0500 From: Ed Kohler [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Mpls] Shoefiti To: mpls@mnforum.org Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Here's an update on the Shoefiti scene: One of my initial comments on this Shoefiti thread was about why it's so much easier to get shoes taken down in Longfellow vs. other areas of the city. That didn't receive any comments so far, but to me is one of the more interesting things I've noticed. In the last couple weeks, Google launched Google Earth, which among other things, allows individuals to upload data points onto maps. I think it helps put things in perspective. Here's an image of Minneapolis from approximately France to the Mississippi (W to E) and Franklin to Hwy 62 (N to S) with Shoefiti plotted. http://www.4factors.com/pics/graffiti/shoefiti-july05.jpg Each marker is time stamped with when I first spotted the shoes. Blue markers represent shoes that have been removed, while yellow markers represent shoes still hanging. Notice anything different about the locations of blue vs. yellow? By the way, there is one blue dot somewhat hidden on 5th Ave S. It represents a pair that used to hang over the Greenway trail, so probably the least confrontational location for a pair of shoes in that neighborhood. It was reported at same exact time as the other March 28, 2005 shoes. It's been mentioned that shoes can end up on lines for various reasons, and none are particularly clear. I decided to sketch out a few rough reasons why they may end up on the lines. Keep in mind that I'm no psychologist. The following theories where thrown together based on my own experiences, conversations on this forum, and common graffiti motivations based on some online research: 1. Drug Dealing How used: Used to let drug buyers know drugs can be purchased in the area. Where found: Combination of visible and discrete location. Found along main drags signaling buyers to turn. Found at intersections to, and mid-block within alleys near drug houses. 2. Prostitution How used: Used to let Johns know prostitutes are in area. Where found: Parking lots, vacant lots, and other pickup spots. 3. Notoriety How used: Thrown over lines commonly passed by friends. Where found: Highly visible areas, including busy intersections, over major streets/highways. 4. Hazing How used: Mild practical joke played on friend. Where found: Likely at common ground of affinity group, such as next to sports field. 5. Memorial How used: Shoes of someone who has passed away are hung from power line to pay tribute to the dead. Where found: Near home of person who died, or near site where death occurred. 6. Marking Attack / Killing How used: Shoes of victim of attack or murder. Where found: Site of killing, or near residence of victim. Any comments / questions on the above would be appreciated. Returning to my original questions: I'm looking for ideas on: 1. How to get the shoes down 2. How to get Xcel to respond with the same regularity I've seen in Longfellow 3. Who's truly responsible for what's hanging from the power lines? What's the process for dealing with them? 4. Does anyone know of a more efficient process for getting the shoes down? Still looking for answers there. Is it possible that some of the shoes are not on Xcel property, but Time Warner's lines? I don't know the difference, but is it possible that Xcel would drive out to a location based on a ticket they've received,
[Mpls] FW: Fundraising Event for Mike Hohmann, independent candidate for 13th Ward City Council
Forwarded to list members. -Original Message- From: Mike Hohmann [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2005 11:10 AM To: Mike Hohmann Subject: Fundraising Event for Mike Hohmann, independent candidate for 13th Ward City Council Supporters of Mike Hohmann for 13th Ward City Council invite you to a 'fundraiser/silent auction' on Friday, July 15th, at 4999 France Ave. So., Suite 235 (above Caribou) from 5:30-9 p.m.-- that's in the Fulton neighborhood. Join Mike and his supporters for some patio fun, refreshments and conversation. Check out the more than 40 silent auction items ranging from custom jewelry designed by local artisans, to a 128 piece Stanley tool set, a 'coffee lovers' gift pack, Minnesota Orchestra tickets, embroidered silk pillow cases, books, DVDs and a whole lot more. Auction winners will be announced at 8 p.m. Donations accepted and volunteer sign ups are welcome. Park in surface lot behind the building (NE corner of 50th France) or in the underground ramp, and take elevator/stairs to 2nd floor. Follow the signs and the crowd. As the only independent candidate in the 13th Ward race, Mike will be working for city residents, taxpayers and voters-- not special interests. He accepts endorsements only from individuals-- no political party or special interest endorsements are sought or accepted. And, he only takes contributions from individuals, no organized special interest or PAC money. -- Paid for by Hohmann for City Council Campaign Committee, 3109 W. 50th St., #341, Mpls., MN 55410 - Steve Redelsperger, Treasurer -- http://www.mikeforcitycouncil.org[EMAIL PROTECTED] --30-- REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] North Star
Citrus Punch Please forgive me / I inadvertently neglected to cite the source of my comments re: Don Samuels - and why I doubt that he would embrace the mantle North Star ! Please see : INSIGHT NEWS: Wringing Advantage From Slavery Legacy by Don Samuels, 3rd Ward Minneapolis City Council, dated May 23,2005. One final quote My grandfather passed his quarter ( land) on to my own father, along with the trajectory of advantages that land culture and ' good hair' brought. Amen, Jeanne Harris, Near North / 5th Ward REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Mpls2005 - Election wiki open at E-Democracy.Org
This is a very nice feature. Glad to have a resource so I can try to keep track of all these candidates! I did some exploring from the Election wiki and made some interesting discoveries. First, why do both 8th Ward candidates Elizabeth Glidden and Marie Hauser claim endorsements from MN NOW PAC and the MN Women's Political Caucus? Were there duel-endorsements and they are both pretending it's just them? You can see what I mean at http://www.elizabethglidden.com/ and http://www.mariehauser.org/ (scroll down). Marie's website also has links on the left side that the casual visitor might interpret as endorsements, including the Minnesota DFL and the Minnesota Women's Campaign Fund. But maybe I'm being too nit-picky... Other interesting discoveries, Tom Moore (Ward 10, Blue-Green Alliance) was the only candidate I've seen to put his medical physical stats on his website to show he's healthy enouch to serve four years. The Firefighter Union endorsement seems to be the most consistently highlighted endorsement among Council candidates--Lisa McDonald (Ward 13, independent) has a big picture in front of a fire truck (http://www.lisamcdonald.org/endorsements.html) Some candidates only list their personal websites that don't seem to have anything to do with their campaign, like Robert Halfhill (Ward 7, Green) who seems to focus more on foreign policy and voter fraud issues on his site. But at least Halfhill has a website. The other two candidates in that Ward (CM Lisa Goodman and Terrell Brown have no listed websites). Lots of folks like mentioning or picturing LRT on their websites and literature, even those with wards not at all near LRT. Meg Forney (Park Board at large, DFL) seems to have the cheeziest (in a good way) website (http://www.megforney.org/). Natalie Johnson Lee (Ward 5, Green) has one of the most bare-bones, but to-the-point website (http://www.nataliejohnsonlee.com/). (Who needs fancy flash animation anyways?) All three mayoral websites seem pretty good, by having lots of information about how they see the issue (though McLaughlin's site was down the most recent time I checked). R.T. needs to update his Recent News section soon. My 2 cents. Derek Burrows Reise Longfellow, Mpls We ask all campaigns and election news and information sites to link to this page (or the main Minneapolis Issues Forum page at http://e-democracy.org/mpls ). Now that candidates have filed for office, please jump in and remove candidates that have dropped out and add the new ones! http://e-democracy.org/wiki/Minneapolis_election_2005_candidates Thanks, Steven Clift E-Democracy.Org __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] ' North Star'
I agree with David. Furthermore, when I read some of this stuff I can't help wonder if this 'supporter' reflects the feelings of their candidate. Fortunatel y, in this case, I know both candidates and do not think either one would tolerate most of the things being said in this discussion. However, I think it is something we should all take into consideration. It's the old 'birds of a feather' syndrome. The candidates might want to advise their supporters to keep the race bashing out of the campaign. Last time I heard, both candidates agreed to run a civil, issued based campaign. Anne McCandless Jordan REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
RE: [Mpls] ' North Star'
I am saddened that some would like to make the election in the new 5th ward about whether CM Samuels came from a properly discrimminated-against background or not culturally. It appears some would rather argue whether he properly acknowledged his field-slave grandmother (whom he never knew), rather than debate the merits of what the two candidates have actually done for residents in the 5th ward. What are the attendance records of committee meetings for the 2 candidates (with abscences excused of coruse for ward business)? What new initiatives have they Actually championed and brought to fruition in the ward? How much actual out-reach has each candidate done to ALL the consituents in their ward? Where do they stand on the Important issues like livability? Are they attempting to bring about improvements from within the system, or just making statements that are politically beneficial? dennis plante lind-bohanon REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
RE: [Mpls] Surviving and Deffending Myself against the Local Drug Dealers on 6th St 23rd Av N
While I liked the noble sentiments of Jim Graham, the situation in some areas of Northside are beyond what a noble man can handle. As a member of a Northside neighborhood organization, it feels important that I be aware of what's happening up here, so I occasionally take these little side trips down a street here or there to see what is going on. The other night, I was returning late from dinner with a friend and decided to drive through McKinley. There were large groups of identically dressed youth (white t-shirt, black pants) in a number of locations. Sometimes as many as 15-20. Some roaming the streets. Others congregating outside houses. It felt very threatening, and I was grateful that none approached my car. I am someone who is not easily scared, but I can tell you that some of the streets on Northside feel mighty dangerous after dark. Bryant Avenue and 6th Street are the two I've experienced recently, particularly between 22nd and 37th. I agree that something needs to be done and, at the same time, also realize that there is no law against folks standing together or dressing alike. Joan, I'm sorry you had that experience. And I'm very glad you had your cell phone with you! Dottie Titus Jordan REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] PEACE Games
LET THE GAMES BEGIN! PEACE GAMES BEGIN THIS MONTH Estimated 1,500 Minneapolis young people, ages 9-18, to participate in sports, dance, spoken word, art, music At a time when the homicide rate in Minneapolis is up by 50 percent, the PEACE Foundation has launched a community-wide initiative to prevent violence. The keystone to their PEACE Summer is the upcoming PEACE Games, which begin on July 30th. The PEACE Games will run for two weeks and give an estimated 1,500 young people opportunities to participate in sports, dance, and spoken word. Competitions begin on Monday, August 1st. The Games will conclude Sunday, August 13th with competition finals and an evening artistic showcase. The purpose of the Games is to bring Minneapolis and surrounding communities together with the Northside to prevent violence this summer. A stipend leadership team of fifteen at-risk youth from the Northside has been created to help run the games. These fifteen part-time five week positions will offer an opportunity for youth to build their leadership skills and participate meaningfully in positive community activity. The PEACE Foundation hopes to seek additional opportunities after the Games for this group of fifteen youth. This component was initiated in collaboration with Urban Youth Conservation, an emerging organization of ex-gang members who are working together to reach out to youth currently at-risk for gang and drug trade involvement. Looking ahead five or ten years, I can see the Games as a collaborative force that will help turn the tide against violence and apathy among young people in our community, said Sondra Samuels, PEACE Foundation President. The PEACE Games are offering at-risk youth on the Northside what they need to choose a different life the opportunity to be part of something positive, said Jimmy Stanback, Urban Youth Conservation member. Highlights of the Games include: Blast Off! Festival Opening Ceremony Saturday, July 30th, 1 4 pm at North Commons Park (family and youth festival) Showcase at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden/Walker Art Center Thursday, August 11th, 1 4pm cultural festival; 5 8pm art showcase Youth Street Party Friday, August 12th, 7-10pm, North Commons Event Finals, Track Field Day, Wrestling Tournament Saturday, August 13th, 9am to 4pm, locations: North Commons, North High PEACE Tour Kick Off Saturday, August 13th, 7 8:30pm, North High Worship Festival Sunday, August 14th, 4 6pm, Outdoor worship service sponsored by Sanctuary Covenant, Farview Park All community events are open to the public and are an opportunity for groups and individuals from throughout the Twin Cities to come to North Minneapolis and participate in the Games. Competing teams representing their Minneapolis neighborhoods will participate in five sports, as well as spoken word, dance and visual art. The sports will include: Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Track Field, and wrestling. A PEACE Village located at North Commons will be open for youth involvement from Monday, August 1 through Friday, August 5, between the hours of 1-4pm and 5-8pm. Forums, workshops, and activities are planned for individuals and groups of youth to participate. Minneapolis Park and Recreation centers, youth serving organizations and congregations will sponsor the teams. The PEACE Games are the work of the PEACE Foundation, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, and the Walker Art Center. The General Mills Foundation, North Memorial Medical Center and Hennepin County are major sponsors of the Games to date. PEACE Games started in 1957 in Flint, Michigan and Ontario, Canada as youth participated in an amateur athletic weekend to promote fellowship and cultural understanding between two cities and countries. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board first held its PEACE Games in 2003, in partnership with 12 agencies, which included a wide array of activities such as cultural art, games, sports, music, dance, and food representing diversity in our city. Although the Games are now a two-week competition, the essence of the initial Park Board event will be preserved at the PEACE Games Showcase held on Thursday, August 11th at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden/Walker Art Center. Games Partners Minneapolis Park Recreation Board Walker Art Center Plymouth Christian Youth Center Minneapolis Police Department Youth Coordinating Board University of Minnesota Yo! The Movement Whats Up? Twin Cities Million Moms March Minneapolis Council of Churches Sanctuary Covenant Church of the Open Door Hospitality House Jerry Gambles Boys Girls Club Teens Rock the Mic 5 Oceans Design Games Sponsors North Memorial Medical Center General Mills Foundation Northway Community Trust Hennepin County Kemps American Iron Minnesota Twins Opus Sisters of Visitation West Broadway Business Association Minneapolis Downtown Council ? - www.citypeace.org Kevin Reich Games Chair
[Mpls] What has happened to politics?
I'm not sure if David will bounce this as not being Minneapolis specific, but I will try to make it so. Over the weekend on Channel 2's Point of View there was a fascinating documentary on the 2002 Mayor's race in Newark, NJ. Done by an independent journalist, it followed the race between Corey Booker, a Democratic, African American, articulate Stanford educated,Rhodes scholar Council Member who moved into low income housing to show solidarity with his constituents. He appeared to be cut out of the same cloth as Barak Obama. He was running against a Democratic African American, sixteen year incumbent (with 16 years as a Council Member before that) named Sharpe James. He was surrounded with an entourage that only wanted to shut the independent press out. The reason I emphasized the ethnicity of the two candidates is because the contest ultimately devolved into Who is more black? Unfortunately I see a parallel in the Shoefiti thread that has been going on here for awhile. Sharpe James, the Newark incumbent, made fun of the education Corey Booker had received, called him a Jew, gay, a Republican, and any other derisive term he thought would gain him votes. He used City employees such as the Police and Fire to tear down Booker signs and used the Inspections Department to close down establishments where Booker fundraisers were held. He threatened companies that had City contracts to back him or else. He lied to the press about how much money Booker had raised (each raised over $3 million while James claimed that Booker had $10 million in Republican money) and glossed over the fact that he had raised the Mayor's pay to $200,000 a year. The filmmaker pointed out that Mr. James had two vacation homes, a 40 foot yacht and a Rolls Royce. (Now you don't get that on $200,000 a year I don't think.) I hope to heaven that we never fall to such depths in Minneapolis, but I don't like where it is trending. When we have a Council race where the main topic is where someone's ancesters came from or what they did, we have moved far afield from the politics and government I worked for and supported all my life. Can't we talk about issues? What are we going to do about these pensions that seem out of control, the development process that seems to reward a few, a criminal element that appears to rule the streets? And don't give me platitudes, give me concrete, creative ideas. I want government to do good for people, to help those who can't help themselves, to prevent the toughs from preying on the weak, to move everyone to higher levels. Okay, you want to know who the Newark election came out? Well, election machines had a way of not working in the areas where Corey Booker was strong and you guessed it, Sharpe James is still in office. Corey Booker says he will run again in 2006. I will contribute to that campaign. Jan Del Calzo Lynnhurst REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Fw: [Mpls] ' North Star'
Sent this earlier and it came back...see someone thought the same thing! - Original Message - From: Dorie Rae Gallagher [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2005 6:53 PM Subject: Re: [Mpls] ' North Star' Has anyone seen the documentary on the mayoral race in Newark NJ, that has been on Channel 2/17 between Booker and James. Take the time to see how dirty politics can get...great film. Anyone wishing to cut another candidate to shreds... really should put out the information...Are you working on the opposing candidates campaign. Does your candidate know /okayed this type of reactionaries. Are you telling the truth from first hand experience or from what he said, she said, they said, and we said and none of it was true?! Then...sometimes, you just don't like someone...that's when you really need to stick to the issues. Dorie Gallagher/Nokomis REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Peebles rounds out team with St. Paul, Minnetonka officials
Calls hiring of St. Paul's Von Sheppard to supervise north-side schools the coup of the century. Craig Hintz of Minnetonka will supervise southwest schools. Any scouting reports? From the indefatigable Steve Brandt: http://www.startribune.com/stories/462/5503634.html David Brauer List manager REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Skyway News to become Downtown Journal
This reminds me of the name change from Minneapolis/St. Paul Citybusiness to The Business Journal. The first was kinda perky, the second a pragmatic yawn...although the articles are good, if a bit Republican in attitude. Skyway News - Downtown Journalwell I guess the new name is more accurate and communicates that it's covering news in and around downtown...but it's still kinda bland, sort of generic, not as eclectic and thought provoking as the articles are... Perhaps it really doesn't matter what it's called, as long as the content continues to be as good as it is... But since climate on the list here is getting a little intense and scary... like the tempsperhaps a little fun is in order. Downtown Journal really needs a slogan, or masthead limmerick, maybe a logo??? something that truly word-a-fies the spirit of Minneapolis...like the New York Times' All the news that's fit to print...? Any ideas? Madeline Douglass Kingfield REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[mpls] MPRB meeting 7-6-2005 part 2 of ?
Planning Committee Part 2 Commissioner Mason ( who isn't on this committee) asks to speak to the issue as it is in her district and she has received many calls. She mentions that there was a lot of misinformation floating around and that much needs to be clarified She then reads 5 points from a letter that Steve ( Friends?) wrote to GM Schmidt and asks him to speak to the points. GM Schmidt's replies 1) The ski trail will be moved 20 feet further from the fence but will still be within the buffer 2) The area was cleared of buck-thorn and the ski trail is not for biking 3) Plantings have been started ($2000 worth) but they will take time to grow and fill the area 4) The MPRB agrees with the keeping the rest of the substantial buffer area 5) The Friends of the Wildflower Garden will be notified of any and all other projects in the area in the future Commissioner Mason then suggests that the Friends, the Loppet folks and MOCA all be part of the discussions of the new trail overlay plan as all groups have demonstrated through previous contributions to the MPRB system that they wish to preserve and protect the parks. Commissioner Hauser ( who is on the committee) presents this idea as a substitute motion that the staff should develop a preferred trail overlay and include representatives from the Friends of the Wildflower Garden, the Minneapolis Loppet and MOCA in the discussions. Public Input on the Wildflower Garden begins (again at 1 1/2 minutes per person) 1. Steve Pundt, President Friends of the Wildflower Garden, The Friends are concerned about the type of use allowed in the buffer, and is concerned about invasive species within the fence. 2. Pam Winer (sp?) , VP of Friends and attending as a Bryn Mawr representative. The Bryn Mawr Neighborhood Association has pass a resolution the supports the buffer zone around the Garden/ Bird Sanctuary. BMNA would also like to have been informed of what was going on as the Garden falls within their boundaries. 3. Peter McKinney President of Minneapolis Off-road Cycling Association (MOCA) He supports multi-use and applauds the recommendation for the planning team for the trail overlay. Cyclists are not destructive users and has found that real cycling trails prevent the use of non-approved trails. 4. Bill ?, Nordic Ski Group brings up three points 1) access... Theodore Wirth promoted use of the parks and the wildflower garden is closed in the winter when the skiers would be present outside the fence. 2) health of the forest ... XC skiers treasure the forest and are not destructive users 3) Health of the population... XC skiing promotes fitness and the connection to nature. If any action is taken XC Skiing should be promoted 5. Bill O'Rielly trail steward to the new Wirth cycling system. The cyclists are on the side of preserving the park and believe that by having planned cycling trails the system will have fewer unplanned trails and thus less erosion and damage to the park. 6. Constance Pepin has no trouble with XC skiing but the Loppet trail is for Skate Skiing which is more harmful and should not be allowed 7. Maya Ellison as a teacher brings many to Eloise Butler. City kids are unfamiliar with nature ( jokes about kids looking for bears at Theo Wirth) and stresses that other than the parks nature is a 100 mile bus trip away. She also mentions a book called Nature Deficit Disorder. 8. Jenny Harrington: Attended the walking tour of the site and felt that the previous use of the park could be compared to a library, where as opening the buffer to other uses would make it more like a fitness center. 9. Sally Hunt of the Friends and Bryn Mawr, would like another site to be found for the Loppet trail 10. Al Sedgewick, as a 78 year young XC skier does not feel his use of the loppet trail would be considered high impact. The trail is generally used by skiers such as himself and that the elite skiers use it for 2 days and that can not be too damaging. 11. Eric Garrets State Rep for the Minnesota Mountain Bike Association. Points out that the demo cycling project in With Park cost the MPRB $0. That the trails are 18 inches wide as well as built to be sustainable and that families use these trails. They would also not need to come near the fence. 12. Joe Schmidt, is a XC skier and feels the trail where it is will be too hilly and icy for the average skier. 13. Sean Shealy, MOCA trail steward, he is opposed to banning bikes and would like to have the MPRB wait until the Wirth cycling project has been around for a while to see the proof of their claims for low impact and sustainable trails. He would like a chance to participate in the new trail overlay committee and would like to see the XC skiers use more sustainable trails. 14. Scott Thayer, President of MN Off-road Cyclists (MORC). 1/2 of the state membership show addresses in Minneapolis and the group
[Mpls] Stormwater Utility Fee
I work on water quality issues and have followed, with interest, the stormwater utliity fee. The following is from a summary prepared for council members and forwarded to my neighborhood group from my council member. From the Engineering Dept. Disputes: As of July 1st we had received 674 disputes on individual accounts. Of these 541 (80%) have been approved. 75 (11%) have been denied 58 (8%) are in process at this time. Volume; 64 disputes received in March, 285 received in April, 130 received in May and 195 received in June. 674 disputes represent .04 % of approx. 102000 accounts. Through July 1st the billing office had received 228 requests for credit applications. I found it interesting that the fund will expectedly absorb $ 1 million in rebates for water quality/ quantity credits. Thanks, Scott Vreeland Seward REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[Mpls] Aquatennial volunteering
Interested in volunteering your time for the Aquatennial? Please reply to this message. We need help with the: - CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade on Wed., the 20th - Target Fireworks show on Sat., the 23rd, and - Star Tribune Beach Bash on Sun., the 24th, it includes the Xcel Sand Castle Competition Kemps Milk Carton Boat Races Volunteer your time for a few hours, get the all-important Aquatennial t-shirt, and invites to fireworks volunteer area and the August Volunteer Party at Minnehaha Park. Teens and adults welcome. Thanks Charlie Casserly, Aquatennial volunteer coordinator REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
[mpls] MPRB meeting 7-6-2005 part 1 of ?
5:00pm Commissioner Fine calls the Planning Committee to order ( and the 5 + hour ordeal begins in the standing room only packed boardroom) GM of Operations Mike Schmidt mentions that the XC ski trails were not suppose to create trouble but sometime there are unintended consequences. Mary Lyn Pulsher of the staff gives a lengthy presentation on the history of the Wild Flower Garden and presents the staff recommendation that reaffirms the 1964 buffer zone policy (Xerxes AV to Wirth PKWY, Glenwood AV to Wayzata BLVD ). The plan is to keep and restore natural areas and promote low impact uses, no bike trails, on or off road. They would also like better trail planning including better signs. Restoring some of the area to the original Oak Savannah is also part fo the plan. ( This does not address the new XC ski trails for the Loppet that were created last winter). She showed quite a few before and after pictures. Liz's Note Apparently new XC ski trails were created last winter to create a better route( less steep, wider and not on asphalt ) for the Loppet and also provide a link to local schools. One trail comes particularly close to the fence around the Wild Flower Garden within the buffer zone. This spring the buckthorn was removed and some heavier equipment left tracks after going inside the fence to eliminate some diseased and dead trees. Though the fence was replaced and the buckthorn area was replanted with native non invasive species the area looks clear cut. Commissioner Hauser starts the questions asking if there are non built trails of which there are many and asks if this policy would deny MOCA (Minneapolis Off-road Cycling Association) access to the area. Per Mary Lyn they would have access to the west side of Wirth Park only. Commissioner Erwin does not feel that cycling is high impact and there is some discussion over biker remaining on designated trails or not and the impact. Commissioner Young asks if the Friends of the Wildflower Garden were invited to the public meetings ( and mentions the myriad of e-mail she has received on this issue)? 900 cards were sent out and at least 60 were to members Liz's Note... This will be the first of many discussions about people being notified... a word to all Minneapolitans... WATCH FOR POSTCARDS FROM THE MPRB!!! At this point Commissioner Dziedzic makes a substitute motion that the staff meet with the Wildflower folks and the Loppet folks and find a compromise The time is now 5:30 pm and time for the public hearing on the St. Anthony Parkway bike trail plan First a 5 minute discussion breaks out among commissioners about time limits as so many people have signed up to speak and it is decided that 1 and 1/2 minutes per speaker will be alloted... Commissioner Dziedzic states he will make a motion for more meetings later... 1. Don Pflaum, city planner and Minneapolis Bike Advisory Board member... for the plan 2. Dan and Jody Hoffman, They would like to see a Master Plan for the completed Grand Rounds before the project should even begin ( the bike trail would cross their yard using the current plan) 3. Liz Wielinski let's just say I lost my temper ( see cable repeats for red-faced tirade) because the majority of the folks signed up to speak and mostly against had not been to any of the previous public meetings held for the purpose of discussing this plan and were unhappy because the planned route would cross in front of their property ( on MPRB land ). They kept saying they were never notified, the MPRB budget does not allow for hand engraved invitiations, ( see above note ) but they were here this evening after Commissioner Dziedzic in order to be inclusive hand delivered flyers to their doors prior to the meeting ( did you do the same for the residents of Nicollet Island regarding DeLaSalle and the athletic field Commissioner). 4. Mr. Gould address along the route... opposed 5. Jon Monahan opposed 6. Tracy Weinstein opposed 7. Andrew Vold opposed 8. Pastor Dodd of the Mount Carmel Lutheren Church ( the most affected property, who had the sense to attend meetings and even arranged for extra meetings with the staff ) not opposed and willing to host further discussions at the church. 9. Matt McMerchy trail is needless... opposed 10. Doug Tanner opposed 11. Lars Olson ( the only neighbor besides myself that went on the trail ride portion of the public meetings to see the route) supports the plan 12. Jim ?? plan is fraught with safety issues opposed 13. Wayne Kafra opposed 14. Joel Bruckner serious concers opposed 15. Al Stansbury opposed 16. Peter Hucksman would like a bike trail but not willing to give up land in his front yard that he thought he owned ( better talk to your title company, you may be able to sue) 17. Archie Thomas opposed 18. Lorraine Rogers opposed Public hearing is now closed ( had to split part 1 as it was too
[mpls] MPRB meeting 7-6-2005 part 1 1/2of ?
So sorry but 1 was too big so I had to split it 6:10 pm OPEN TIME ( okay... does anyone know what part of the agenda we are at, no wonder the cable viewers get confused ) Laura Stonebarker: Appeals to the MPRB to ban smoking in the fenced in areas of the wading pools and on the tot lots ( after an incident of a child stepping on a smoldering butt and being burnt) Stephanie Gozum and her son 6 year old Gabriel ( Liz was in the hall and so her notes were forwarded to me ) Hi, I'm the mother of a 6 year old boy... Gabriel. I am here to give him a voice... As a child's voice often goes unheard. The wilderness area on Nicollet Island proposed for demolition is very important to Gabriel. Gabriel loves everything about nature found in that park prairie land... my son and i go on nature walks daily... snake hunting, catching crickets, exploring and mapping the prairie land. Gabriel knows more about snakes, crickets, spiders, wildflowers, and toads than most adults... Why?? Because he observes, feels, hears, he experiences nature in the park sanctuary... passion and inspiration exploring nature... inspiring him to go home and watch national Geographic instead of cartoons... inspiring him to read and learn... to identify the bug he saw.. to find out what garter snakes eat... to learn about the differences in reptiles and amphibians... passion to learn. Nature in downtown Minneapolis... parkland... where else can you go to experience nature in its unadulterated form downtown? I argue no where in downtown Minneapolis. Park land.. My son Gabriel knows every inch of this area... Ask hi about: Snake rock... and the baby garter family that lives there Cricket fields Baby toads Red foxes Bunny families.. and where heir homes are the spiders.. wolf spiders... garden spiders The birds... goldfinches, nuthatches, redwing blackbirds, finches, mourning doves, killdeers, blue birds that live on the insects in the fields The leafhoppers.. the very unique animals, insects, and wildflowers that are found on the island... wild catnip and the purple, yellow, pink, lavender, orange, white wildflowers... Stunning A few days ago Gabriel and I were walking to snake rock. It was just before a summer storm when the air was changing and fragrant with a bouquet, the fields blowing wildflowers in full bloom like a watercolorist palate. Gabriel and I just stood and breathed in the air... I said to him, Gabriel: just look how beautiful this is... Gabriel's reply, Mom. of course it is... it's God's creation... and he made it perfect. God loves all his creatures. Wisdom.. from a 6 year old child in it's purest form... My son, a city boy, nature lover... If you want to provide something for the inner-city kids... provide them the opportunity to experience nature... Teach them to respect and preserve God's creations... and put the Astroturf stadium somewhere other than on park land. do it for the kids... All the city kids... ( there was a rumor that Gabriel had one of his many collected snakes in his backpack for show-n-tell ) Edna Brazaitis : Shows a copy of the Nicollet Island Master Plan from the 1990's. There is no football field shown in this rendition and there were representatives from DeLaSalle on the planning committee at the time. ( A copy is available at Pierre Bottineau Library ) Steve Rosenberg: Discussed how unique Nicollet Island is and that many residents of the coop make less than 50% of the Metro Median Income. Tammy Wong: Ms Wong a single mother and small business woman was there to support having a field close to the school for the kids that attend that can not be driven to practice because their parents are working etc... Kate Carlson: Gave statistics on the student body of DeLaSalle 30% students of color, 30% from single parent families, 1/2 get need based financial aid. Nikki Carlson: (Kate's mom) Claims the mission and goals of the MPRB are consistent with those of DeLaSalle in both wanting to form public and private partnerships Ethan Lassiter: Wants the DeLaSalle field so that there are more fields in the city as there are many in the suburbs. Linda Lincoln reading a letter from her husband ( who is very involved with Minneapolis soccer leagues ) He would like to keep Nicollet Island as is and any claims that Minneapolis is suffering from a shortage of soccer fields is false. He schedules many leagues and tournaments in the city and never has had an issue with a shortage of fields. Christine Viken : $65,477 is the amount the Van Dusen mansion paid in property taxes last year. By building a competing event center on Lake Calhoun the MPRB would be giving a competitor that would not be contributing towards the tax base an unfair advantage. Any enterprise can seem profitable if you eliminate costs that its competitors must absorb. What comes next after this event center? The
[mpls] MPRB meeting 7-6-2005 part 3 of ?
Planning Committee Continued Commissioner Hauser thanks everyone for attending and agrees that a new master plan is needed Commissioner Erwin asks that in planning the the staff consider moving the trail away from the fence, increase planting in the buffer, work with all 3 groups, consolidate and make better trails to keep folks on them, and states that all the groups will be great helpers and to work together. all the others toss in their 2 cents worth and the substitute motion is passed. 8:00 pm and back to the regular meeting for a presentation Paul Hokeness, District manager for the Lakes district makes a special presentation to Dottie Speidel a long time activist for arts in the parks at Loring Park who has just donated a very fine piano for use in the center. Ms. Speidel ( who has been patiently waiting for a while) states that they turn out this evening demonstrates the love people have for their parks. Next DM Hokeness introduces Diane Moe, who has been hired as the Cultural Arts Director for Loring Park. Ms Moe is rejoining the MPRB staff. She announces that on Wednesday July 18th at noon they will be starting the Music in Loring Park series Commissioner Berry Graves mentions the positive comments she is getting from MacPhail about the new program at Loring and Commissioner Mason asks if Ms. Moe will also be managing the Sculpture Garden as she saw some reference to it in her materials. DM Hokeness says she will eventually be handling the Sculpture Garden as it is considered her fields like the more traditional fields at the other park centers. 8:10 and we are back to Planning again Tim Brown lead staff on the St. Anthony Parkway bike trail master plan and Greg Ingraham (outside consultant) give a presentation on the proposed trail , part of which will be repair and upgrades to the 30 year old existing trail and part of which will be a continuation of the trail from Ulysses ST NE to Stinson BLVD (this is the controversial section ). The trail is then planned to be extended in another project south along Stinson to 18th where it will connect with a planned city trail and also a trail along an old RR grade that goes diagonally through the region. A power point presentation shows how the plan would be done and if the trail is kept off of the street it will go along the parkway on what many citizens consider to be their front yards ( though the MPRB actually owns the land). Tim stresses that the plan is in the loop for funding ( Federal matching dollars ) and too many delays will put the project off indefinitely. Commissioner Dziedzic wants to change the plan to satisfy the neighbors and feels that another meeting will take care of the problem and makes a motion to do that Commissioner Olson asks if the plan can just redo the existing stretch up to Ulysses and stop ( not the way the grant is worded ) There is some discussion over whether delays will mess up the funding and if the dollars will be available again in the future to which no one can make a guarantee. Director of Planning Reitkirk also mentions the fact that the schedule for the matching dollars on the MPRB front would also be an issue. Tim stresses that the plan could be passed and then the trail could be altered during the construction phase to meet the neighborhood requirements and that it is MPRB property but that Met Council Approval is needed soon to keep the project on track. Commissioner Dziedzic then complains about the notification process (see Scott Vreeland's post about what the proper procedure should have been ). Commissioner Berry Graves mentions that if they vote to make the trail narrow they should remember the death that led to the wider trail decision years ago. Commissioner Erwin makes a friendly amendment to Commissioner Dziedzic's motion that another community meeting be held and then come back to the board at the August 3rd meeting. THE MEETING FOR ALL INTERESTED PARTIES WILL BE AT COLUMBIA MANOR, 3300 CENTRAL AV NE, TUESDAY JULY 19TH AT 6:30 PM per Commissioner Dziedzic who was kind enough to provide me with the information when I called later in the week. Scott Brink from the City of St. Louis Park gives a presentation on the trail connector they would like to build on MPRB property to join together some bike trails. Commissioner Dziedzic asks about their notification process motion to approve passes. Planning finally adjourns at 9:00 pm Stay tuned for the Legislative Committee and the report from Rice, Pederson and Campo lobbyists Liz Wielinski Columbia Park REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html
[Mpls] Re: Mpls2005 - Election wiki open at E-Democracy.Org
First, why do both 8th Ward candidates Elizabeth Glidden and Marie Hauser claim endorsements from MN NOW PAC and the MN Women's Political Caucus? Were there duel-endorsements and they are both pretending it's just them? Yes, MnNOW did dual (not duel) endorsements. Both candidates were rated A by MnNOW, and the organization specifically states that this rating allows a candidate to say they were endorsed by MnNOW and use their name in campaigning. (MnNOW 'rates' candidates for how well they follow the organizations' principals; they do not do endorsement contests pitting them against each other.) You can find this out easily by looking: http://www.mnnow.org/PAC/pac_candidate_ratings_2005.htm Tim Bonham, Ward 12, Standish-Ericsson REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
Re: [Mpls] Surviving and Deffending Myself against the Local DrugDealers on 6th St 23rd Av N
Actually Dottie (and other readers) I am still mad and fuming about what Joan described. I am outraged that such animals are allowed to openly prey upon the women in Minneapolis. I am also outraged that our present politicians have allowed this culture of crime to rule the streets anywhere in MY city. It is not just a city I live in, it is MY City. A great city that should be better than that. Dottie described sentiments as Noble, to which when read, I must admit I snorted. The sad thing is that there was a time such sentiments were not considered noble at all, just one's everyday duty. Unfortunately, we have taught a generation of people that they should not defend themselves and others. While at the same time the court system and the dysfunctional families have taught another culture that aggressive behavior, violence, and abuse will be rewarded and almost never actually punished. The result is a far greater number of predators more willing to prey upon an even greater number of sheep. The reason we have so many aggressive drug dealers, gangbangers and violent criminals is because we ALLOW them to be here in Minneapolis. Are we quickly creating a culture of cowards unwilling to protect their communities? Are there truly no more Dog Soldiers of our communities willing to stand against evil on our streets? No that is not true, I remember standing on the street all night long to protect a family in my neighborhood who were being threatened by a drug gang. I also remember that I was not alone, Robert Cook spent those several long nights out there beside me. Were we Noble? Well maybe Robert was, but I was just mad as hell that they dared shooting at a house in MY community and possibly hitting one of MY people. The present elected politicians are not interested in dealing with such criminal sub-cultures because the people most victimized are those living in poor neighborhoods and neighborhoods with larger concentrations of color. Why? Because those people do not have the money, nor voting record, to demand it change. Those politicians, such as the Mayor and some CM's, are simply not bothered by the criminals, and as long as those criminals activities are confined to Impacted Neighborhoods they do not even bother to care. It will take those Impacted neighborhoods organizing voters and electing new political leadership before their plight is taken seriously. Until the politicians begin to do their actual sworn duty and giving Minneapolis adequate public safety, it will take people going out of their houses and fighting for their communities, and fighting for those who need help. I can not imagine people from the 1940's allowing that same thing to happen in that same neighborhood. A group of neighborhood men would have gone down and explained it to the street corner punks. So folks, either get yourselves prepared to fight the fight yourselves, or prepare to elect new leadership that is willing to provide the resources necessary to provide adequate police protection. Is it going to take a large group of Northside women going in mass to get the training and permits to carry to scare or shame the politicians into providing adequate police? Or perhaps those Northside folks should apply to the County and State for Disaster Relief because Minneapolis is apparently unable to provide for public safety itself. Maybe those communities should apply for some of those Homeland Security billions so the impacted neighborhoods of Minneapolis can hire their own Marshals. Jim Graham, Ventura Village It is always an utter folly to underestimate the lure and attraction of a great evil. The whitened bones of their victims litter the highways and byways of mankind's history. Stopped only by the few willing to pay the ultimate price and make a stand. - Toe REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
