We may have been the first, gathering signatures to save Grove Street and preserve Nicollet Island, to actually get a Park Board permit to exercise our constitutional rights. Thirty five dollars bought us the right to set up a table at the Stone Arch festival and set out petitions. (There was also a $150 "damage deposit" - presumbaly in case we did something unconstitutional - requiring quartering of soldiers?, eliminating the right to speedy trial?, establishing a poll tax? - it's good to know your Park Board is concerned about these things). According to the Park Board, even with the permit, we weren't supposed to approach or talk to anyone unless they talked to us first (we may have to forfeit the damage deposit on that one). Our table featured a display of the Preservation Alliance's Ten Most Endangered Historic Sites in Minnesota, one of which is Nicollet Island and the Central Riverfront, primarily because of the DeLSalle project. In 2 days, we got hundreds of signatures from Island visitors and friends supporting preservation of public park land and opposing the DeLaSalle project. Thanks to all of you for your support. Park Commissioner Walt Dziedzic was at the Stone Arch festival and, when he saw we were gathering signatures, told us "Well, there are lots of Catholics in Minneapolis too." (Just to be clear, I like Catholics. I like Lutherans, Methodists, Jews, Muslims, Atheists and Druids too - I'm just reporting what MY Park Commissioner said.) Silly me - here I thought this was supposed to be about land use and sound park policy. Apparently not. Shame on Walt Dziedzic. Shame on all of us. Barry Clegg Nicollet Island REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list.
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