Re: [Mpls] Minneapolis Third Ward Politics

[Shawne FitzGerald]

Margo Ashmore, publisher of North News and the Northeaster, filed for the 3rd Ward CM seat a couple of days ago.  Margo's been active in business groups and some community organizations on both sides of the river for 10-20 years.  When they started North News in the early 90's, many wondered if they would succeed - but she believed in the northside.  Her business model includes lots of grass roots organizing.

When Margo started working on Central Avenue revitalization about 10 years ago,  I was on the board of the NE CDC (in its previous version) - and she scheduled coordinating meetings at a painful 6 a.m.  I asked her why - she said that's when the bankers can make it!  The progress on Central has been wonderful - something to replicate across the city.

An old friend - we met as DFL campaign volunteers in the 1970s (this was before she became a journalist where she kept her political views to herself.)  She would be excellent!  I can't imagine a better grass roots-type rep for the 3rd Ward - and having her on the council would be a plus for all of us.

I've already volunteered to stuff envelopes this weekend.

Go Margo!

Shawne FitzGerald
Powderhorn