Re: [Mpls] Leaf Blower action meeting post
As a user of an electric leaf blower, I want to say that I use one for the following reasons: 1. My yard is heavily shaded by trees (so I have a lot of leaves). The grass under trees is fragile. A leaf blower will remove the leaves and leave the grass. Raking takes much of the grass along with the leaves. Housing Inspections has given me a warning in the past because I don't have enough grass in my yard, despite seeding it three years in a row. Raking the leaves just means another citation from Housing Inspections the following spring/summer because more than half the grass will have been raked up with the leaves. 2. The leaf blower does a better job and does it faster. 3. The electric leaf blower that I use is supposedly better for the environment than the gas models. 4. The leaf blower is also excellent for clearing snow from my driveway in the winter--up to about 3 deep fluffy snow is easily removed. Since snow shoveling is supposed to be so dangerous for those who are elderly or ill, the leaf blower is a very handy solution. I don't regard myself as elderly or ill, though. In my case, it's just a really fast way to clear the snow before I go to work. 5. As has been said here before, the electric models make a steady sound that is easier to tune out than those whose sound and volume changes constantly. I have neighbors who think it is great fun to shoot off fireworks between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. for about two weeks in the middle of the summer. Others park their cars and leave their radios running at volumes that shake the glass in my windows. This happens at all hours of the day and night. My leaf blower seems pretty innocuous compared to those. I use it about 4 to 6 times a year for perhaps 1 to 2 hours at a time max. When used for snow removal, it only takes 20 minutes. Nobody does much about the fireworks or the boom cars. Why focus on someone who is trying to take care of their property and keep the city beautiful? Dottie Titus, Jordan On Jan 6, 2005, at 12:18 AM, Dan wrote: Mike Wrote: At first, when I read this post, I thought it was some sort of joke. Then I realized: these people are serious. For crying out loud, is this some sort of real issue? I mean, they're leaf blowers. Sure, they make a little noise every now and again, but so do jackhammers, snowblowers, lawnmowers, hoopties on Lake Street, and about a hundred other things. Surely there are better things for the city council to work on. If the city council spends ANY time on this, it will be official: they will annointed Busybodies with simply not enough to do, and should be dismissed. Absolutely 100% agree. This is silly. If leaf-blowers need any regulating, it's just to prohibit their operation in the middle of the night, but noise ordinances already cover that. See how many landscaping companies will do business in Minneapolis if they can't use leaf-blowers! Dan McGrath Longfellow http://www.smokeoutgary.org REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email 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 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. Think a member has violated the rules? Email 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 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] Mpls Somali activist found guilty of immigration fraud
I find it fascinating that the government wants to work hard to deport Omar Jamal who, by all accounts, is an excellent citizen who contributes a lot to his community. At the same time, there is a move on the government's part to create ways for Mexican citizens to stay here who are here illegally and have children in school here. It makes me dizzy! There is a larger question that always lies beneath the surface of these kinds of issues: Do we punish someone for mistakes that happened years ago or do we recognize that the person has grown into a good citizen and contributor and forgive the error? This issue is especially interesting when someone is finally caught and arrested for a crime committed many, many years ago who has built a solid place in the community and contributes a lot. I guess it depends on whether we are more interested in punishment or rehabilitation. If punishment is our primary focus, then it doesn't matter how good the person is now or what they contribute to society. If rehabilitation is our aim, then it would seem that we should allow for the fact that a criminal has somehow rehabilitated him- or herself without the aid of our corrections system. Some would argue that if we forego the punishment, then other criminals may believe that they can avoid prison if they do the same thing. And that would be a terrible thing, wouldn't it? Criminals who pulled their lives together and became model citizens without society's investment of hundreds of thousands of dollars for prison expenses. In Mr. Jamal's case, do we as a community do better deporting him or keeping him here? Dottie Titus, Jordan neighborhood On Jan 9, 2005, at 12:33 AM, mike skoglund wrote: I am really confused about this. On 1/8/05 8:10 PM, Barbara Lickness [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Omar Jamal and his wife and children will be paying a VERY high price for the crimes he committed. It will deny them U.S. immigration and eventual citizenship. This situation will throw their immediate future into chaos for awhile. According to the Pioneer Press, his wife and children are U.S. Citizens, so they won't face deportation. http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/news/10594906.htm I think it is pretty obvious that gaining immigrant or citizen status in the United States is now and has always been very important to many people around the world. I think when you add to that scenario the fact that they come from a country that has been destroyed by tribal infighting, war and rebels the stakes are that much higher. If you don't gain immigration to the United States and are forced to go back to or remain in the war torn country you are trying to leave, it is unspeakably frightful. In some cases, it means you will be killed just for trying. Omar is not the first immigrant to meet this fate. See, this is what I don't get -- he had already been granted asylum by CANADA in 1991, so apparently he'd already been out of danger for seven years when he made these misstatements on his U.S. Immigration papers. If he'd already been granted asylum in a safe place, why would he lie? So he could attend college in Memphis? Or was something threatening his Canadian status? I'm having a hard time connecting the dots. [...] I think it's very sad that he will pay such a high price for choices he made when the United States was in a much different place than it is now. I feel sorry that he and his family will be deported or worse that he will be incarcerated here. It's easy for us who sit in nice warm toasty houses in one of the wealthiest countries in the world to condemn Omar for what he did, but none of us are standing in his shoes. [...] The Pioneer Press story indicates he isn't looking at jail time -- if he's deported, he would be sent to Canada. They have nice warm toasty houses there, too. Mike Skoglund // Financial District, New York // Bancroft, Minneapolis REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email 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 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. Think a member has violated the rules? Email 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 City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:mpls@mnforum.org Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at:
Re: [Mpls] Closures
It was announced on Friday, I think, that many of the cold weather activities were cancelled because it was bitterly cold. I heard on the news that Theodore Wirth Park had closed down its activities because it was deemed too cold for people to be out sledding and tubing in sub-zero weather. That might be why the warming houses were closed, because the Park Board thought it was too cold and didn't want to encourage people taking risks in the cold weather. Dottie Titus Jordan Neighborhood REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email 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 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] Politicking and the NRP
Bob Johnson wrote: However, when it came to the turnout of C-RWB voters eligible to vote for authorizing the expenditure of $1,500,000 in NRP funds about that same time, it was a very different type of democracy, a dubious democracy to be nice. Of the 6,212 C-RWB residents eligible to vote, about 60 did vote, allowing a voter turnout of 1% to be easily calculated. Most neighborhoods, I suspect, have nowhere near the turnout at local meetings that they do for a national election. It is a shame that this is true, and I believe that most, if not all, of us who work on behalf of our neighborhoods wish it were not. Even though the turnout for NRP review is small, at least it is a review by residents. I don't see how it would be better to let the city council determine where the money is spent. There are roughly 80 neighborhoods but only 13 city council members. Surely it is better to have 60 C-RWB residents making the decisions about C-RWB than having them made by the city council where only one member represents C-RWB's interests and that member also represents the interests of other neighborhoods. While turnout may not be impressive, at least the people affected are the ones who have the option of being part of the decision. The system isn't perfect. We need to work on more citizen participation. But I don't think the solution is to dismantle a system that gives the neighborhoods a voice. When people care enough, they get involved. Dorothy Titus, Jordan Neighborhood 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: Rybak Mailing, Political Junkies
Mr. Luce said: And when the Mayor's spokesperson deflects the issue by saying they welcome clarification of the law and will abide by any standard that is fairly applied to all, then my hackles go up and we must beg the question: whatever happened to the Mayor's own ethical standards? and I have to say that it is disconcerting in the least for a candidate and mayor who values clean elections and accountable government not to stand up and do the right thing when the chips are down. And what is wrong with the mayor giving himself enough time to determine whether or not his action was wrong? If any official were to respond immediately to any challenge without taking the time to check out whether or not his actions were indeed incorrect, we would have chaos. Every political machine would be throwing accusations at officials all the time just to see how far they could push them. I certainly hope the mayor will do the right thing...as soon as it is clear what the right thing is. From what I've read, I'm not sure that it is clear yet. From time to time, I get mailed literature from officials touting their achievements with their pictures. No one has challenged them. It helps me know what my officials look like. We have a long history in this country of one political party making accusations against an official and tying up that official with challenges that turn out to be false and a waste of taxpayer money and time. I think it is fair to give the mayor the time and opportunity to determine if indeed his actions were incorrect. Then he can be judged by his response to that. Dorothy Titus, Jordan neighborhood 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] Doug Grow's Mythology
Allen Graetz wrote: I wish this were the case. BUt even this is based upon the assumption that any of these children that move to a better school have parents that are involved enough in their lives to make that happen. And unfortunately in some of the neighborhoods where this occurs, there are too many parents who do not do this. We need to keep this in mind and make sure that no matter how much more public or private the education system becomes that there is a need for programs to help children who do not have parents who are capable of helping or simply do not care. That doesn't necessarily mean that the government has to provide this service, but it's needed. There are a few bad parents in this world. So it goes Ahhh, but that is the beauty of keeping kids in their neighborhood schools. Those parents who ARE willing to do something (like move their kids to another school) must get involved in their neighborhood schools instead to push for change rather than abandoning them and moving their kids. It takes the available energy for change and focuses it where it is needed. Dorothy J. Titus Jordan Neighborhood 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] Time to demolish NRP
I am new to the NRP process, but I have lived in the Jordan neighborhood for 3 years now. 18 months ago, I joined the board of directors. I joined the NRP Steering Committee about six months ago for Phase II Planning. As of February 1, I am the Executive Director for the Jordan Area Community Council, Jordan's citizen participation organization. My involvement with NRP is very limited, but I will take issue with Mr. Johnson's view of the NRP. Last month, I attended the Neighborhood Housing Services Annual Meeting (and their 25th Anniversary). Jordan used NHS (then NNHS - Northside Neighborhood Housing Services) as one of their primary funding mechanisms for housing. Jordan put about 99% of its NRP Phase I money into housing, a larger percentage than any other neighborhood in Minneapolis. At the annual meeting, NHS proudly pointed to Jordan as one of the most successful neighborhoods in terms of using its NRP dollars wisely. We invested $1.5 million dollars in revolving loan funds that have been turned over several times. The result: $5.5 million dollars of redevelopment activities have taken place in Jordan thanks to that $1.5 million invested. How many other city agencies have brought a 266% return on monies invested in a relatively short period of time (less than ten years-and most of it during a tough economic recession)? And this money continues to revolve, bringing more and more redevelopment and improvement to our neighborhood. In addition to this, we have restored some beautiful old properties, provided purchase/rehab loans to residents who could not have owned a home otherwise and made significant strides toward reducing blight in our neighborhood. The community set very high standards for redevelopment, restoration and even for home improvement. It is a beautiful example of citizens deciding what they need in their community and going for it. One of the issues for northside neighborhoods is that people have historically regard them as the poor neighborhoods. While people may pay lip service to improving the northside, there is still an unspoken sigh of relief that the problems are up there on the north side. For this reason, there is often little incentive to solve the problems. If we should solve the northside problems, where are the problems going to go. For the northside neighborhoods, community participation supported with NRP dollars have given us a way to take control of our future and work together to make it bright. Have we made mistakes? Of course, but none that would overshadow the achievements. For Jordan, NRP has been an outstanding success. Dorothy Titus Jordan neighborhood 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] A Real Minneapolis Problem
I agree with you, Michael. My car was totaled just four weeks ago by an egregious red light runner. It was in rush hour traffic at 5:30 p.m. I was traveling west on W. Broadway and intended to make a left turn onto Lyndale (to go south). It was obvious there was no way to get across the intersection with a green (there is no turn light there). So I did as taught in the 55-Alive driving class: I moved to the center of the intersection and waited for the light to turn red. It turned red, and the driver in the inner lane going east ran the red light (and yes, it was red). The driver behind him stopped. There was another car coming in the outer lane going east but she was quite a ways from the intersection. I looked up to be sure the light was red and then moved forward because the Lyndale traffic was beginning to cross Broadway and I was in the middle of the intersection. Well, that other driver didn't stop but plowed into my car. She was obviously flying to beat the light. My car had just begun to move forward from a dead stop. The damage was extensive--the front of the car was basically lying on the ground, the hood crumpled, the driver's fender jammed back so that I couldn't open the door. And she has had the nerve to have a lawyer write to my insurance company about personal injury sustained in the accident. Amazing! -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Michael Thompson Sent: Monday, February 21, 2005 10:05 PM To: Mpls list Subject: [Mpls] A Real Minneapolis Problem I know that this issue was recently debated in terms of the red light cameras proposed for the city, but I have more to say on this issue. Red light running is a serious problem in this city. Serious. I've lived in many U.S. cities, to include Portland, Madison and New York City. I've driven in Europe, Central America, and in Africa. I know drivers. And nowhere I've ever driven, anywhere, have drivers been worse for red light running than here in Minneapolis. No where. On the way home from my work downtown today I witnessed THREE!!! drivers go through red lights so egregiously, I might add, that my light was already green (yep, these were at delayed stop lights). Drivers in Africa have more respect for red lights than many drivers in Minneapolis. I mean that. Red lights are merely a suggestion to many drivers in this city. Apparently drivers stop at red lights if they feel like it or if it suits their timetable. And I'll also say this: red light running in Minneapolis is a ticking time bomb. Mark my words: it is only a matter of time before somebody is killed in this city by a red light runner. It's gonna happen as sure as anything, and we're all going to stand as a city wringing our hands. I'll be honest with this group: I'm mostly a card-carrying Libertarian, though I consider myself a big tent Libertarian which means that I'm open to reason on many issues. In my heart, I'm not a big fan of red light cameras, especially considering their use as a revenue enhancement tool. But I'd support them if the bugs, like quick yellows, are worked out. Somebody is going to die very soon, and if the cameras help keep peole from dying, let's get them going. This is a serious Minneapolis issue, folks, and one that directly impacts quality of life here. Mike Thompson Windom 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] A Resolution for Caucuses and Conventions
Are you all aware that NRP funding ends in 2009? That there are no plans to fund neighborhood redevelopment, revitalization after that? Are you aware that the people we elect this fall to the City Council and the Mayor's office will be the primary group that has a chance to change that? Next month (next week for the DFL) some of our political parties will be holding their precinct caucuses. I am not making any recommendations about who to vote for or which party to support. I would suggest, however, that people question the candidates about plans for supporting neighborhood development in the future. Question them for details and don't accept a vague, I support neighborhood involvement [or participation] I would like to offer the following as a possible resolution neighborhood residents could take to their caucuses or conventions: Whereas, NRP funding for neighborhoods ends in 2009; and Whereas, NRP funding has empowered neighborhoods and communities to make significant, successful improvements to their neighborhoods; and Whereas, the neighborhood improvements funded through NRP increase the city's tax base; Therefore, be it resolved that the _ Party supports permanently funding neighborhood revitalization through setting aside 2.5% of the property tax revenues for this purpose to be administered by the existing NRP organization and providing a minimum of $75,000 for general operating support of the neighborhood organizations currently funded by NRP. Be it further resolved that the __ Party supports the city finding additional sources of neighborhood revitalization funds in future years and that such funds be apportioned to the neighborhoods to fund revitalization and redevelopment efforts to increase neighborhood capacity and continue to grow assets that will contribute to an increasing revenue stream for the city. 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
Re: [Mpls] Stormwatergate
On Mar 2, 2005, at 10:39 PM, David Brauer wrote: Notwithstanding Jim's water-bill situation, the city said late last year that the average homeowner would pay $1.11 less each month with the new storm water charge. ~~ I have to side with Jim. I got my notice this week, too, and if the storm water replaces my sewer portion, the charge goes from $7 per month to $20, an increase in my total bill of 41%. I have a new driveway. When I bought the house, there was a huge mudhole, often up to a foot deep that filled up and eventually drained into the storm sewer because the parking area in front of the garage is sloped toward the alley (and that is true along the alley for the entire block). Putting in a driveway meant (a) my car didn't get stuck -- or swallowed up -- in the mud, and (b) instead of thick, muddy water running into the storm sewer, clear pure rainwater now runs into it. My yard does not drain to the alley, so no lawn chemicals or herbicides can find their way to the storm sewer from my lot. It seems to me that the driveway results in LESS contamination in the storm sewer. Surely rain draining over a clean asphalt driveway (there are no oil spills on my driveway) is better than a whole lot of mud draining into it. But the city must not see it that way in view of the 41% increase in my bill that I can look forward to. Dottie Titus Jordan Neighborhood 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] Equality for the Northside is a Joke!
I wish to weigh in on the issue of what North Minneapolis does and does not get from the rest of the city. What we do NOT get is empowerment. Has anyone paid attention to the recent redistricting? Ward 5 was stripped of its share of downtown and the warehouse district, the two parts of the ward with substantial revenues, and given the Jordan neighborhood. Ward 5 went from a district with a voice because it had some financial resources the city needs to a pocket of poverty. This redistricting was not about a fair and equitable distribution of voters. Further, McKinley and Hawthorne, two other deeply impacted neighborhoods, are the only two neighborhoods that now belong to Ward 3 who are west of the Mississippi. How much do they have in common with the downtown and northeast communities of Ward 3. Just how much attention do you suppose will be paid to their needs? You can talk all you want about the city's intentions, but there is a steady movement to separate and keep the northside as a convenient dumping ground for the city's problems. And the rest of the city ignores it because it is to the advantage of other parts of the city to keep the problems in North Minneapolis. Zip code 55411 contains 8% of the city's population and 40% of the Level III sex offenders. When a Level III sex offender plans to move to an affluent neighborhood, 800 people turn out and protest. Where do all those offenders who are not welcome elsewhere go? They end up on the northside. I've often wondered how the rest of the city can sleep at night. If you spread out those with a likelihood to reoffend throughout the city and county, there would be little problem keeping track of them. If a neighborhood had one or two, everyone would be keeping an eye on them and making sure their children knew who they were. When you are inundated with them, that becomes impossible. Here we have 3 and 4 living on the same block...across from an elementary school. NIMBY (not-in-my-back-yard) is the ultimate form of discrimination. There are some in city and county government who are indeed working hard to help the northside, but they have a very powerful, well oiled machine working against them. This is why NRP has been such a blessing to the impacted neighborhoods. It has given them an ability to do something for themselves, to make choices and to build what their communities need. In Phase II, because of the funding cuts, continuing that momentum has been cut short. Those who had a long-range, 20-year plan have seen their dreams of a revitalized northside cut short. With the redistricting and the further stripping of power from the northside, one has to wonder if we weren't getting a bit too uppity with our new found power and someone had to step in and put us back where [they think] we belong. 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] A Story of Courage and Service
In so much of the recent communications about the double homicide here in North Minneapolis (it happened just a block-and-a-half up the street from my house), I have read the hue and cry about what the city can and cannot do and what the city should and should not do and the questions about how we are going to pay for what is needed. Something has been missing in all of this discussion: What are YOU going to do? There is no invisible they who are going to solve this situation. As Roberta Englund said, this is not North Minneapolis' problem. It is the entire city's problem. I want to tell you about a very special woman. She's the mother of the young man who was shot Friday night. I met her Friday night as she was waiting with her family to find out if it was her son who was killed. His car was in the parking lot, and she did not see him among those who got on the police bus. She stood and waited for three hours at the corner with her family and best friend. Finally, the police told her to go home and they would contact her. They arrived shortly after she got home to tell her that it was indeed her son who was killed. She had given me her address, and I visited with her for an hour yesterday. In the midst of her grief, she showed me pictures of this young man who looked full of life. The pictures I saw, which were taken just a day or two earlier, were very different from the picture in the paper. In these pictures, he was smiling and his eyes looked bright and filled with hope. His mother told me that he was determined to get his life right this time. During his four days out of prison, he had not left the house until old friends persuaded him to go to dinner at the place where he was killed. She said he had a list on the wall in his room of all the things he had to do to get it right, and he was full of hope and positive energy and determined to build a new life. His mother has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years. She talked about what it was like living in a neighborhood where many of the neighbors watched out for each others' children, where you didn't hesitate to discipline a neighbor's child, where your child knew that she better 'fess up to a misdeed before the neighbors told you what happened. She talked about her eight children growing up here and what it was like to have their friends in. She said, You know, it doesn't really take much more to feed 16 than it does to feed 8. She told me that many of her children's friends still refer to her as Mom, and indeed when some came to offer their condolences while I was there, they did. Hers was a place of safety for neighborhood children. And she showered them with love and she did her best to instill the rules that all children need, rules of respect for others and for themselves. I saw that respect over and over yesterday in the way her family members treated each other. She also talked about some neighbors who wouldn't talk to her because she was African-American, neighbors who raised a fuss and cursed at her kids because one slipped off the sidewalk around the side of the house and stepped on the neighbor's yard. Yet this woman isn't angry. She told me that in the time it takes for her to be angry, she could find a solution. Truly, this is a wise woman, a kind and loving mother who did all that she could to raise her children the right way and who feels a deep commitment to her community. What took me totally by surprise was what she said when I was getting ready to leave. She told me that she doesn't have a lot of time because she spends about ten hours a day commuting and working. She gets home late in the evening. But, she asked, would I please find something on weekends that she could do or become involved in to help the community. She said, That's my time for running errands and such, but I want to do something for this community. I've found a new friend in my community, someone who is awesome in her courage and commitment. And I can't help asking the question: If this woman, in the midst of her grief, can still want to give back to her community, aren't there others out there who can give just a little more of yourself, of your time, of your resources, to help those in need. You see, what is most needed in North Minneapolis is a whole lot of caring and a strong willingness to help people lift themselves up out of poverty and out of crime. There are some who don't want to change, but there are ten times more who would change in a heartbeat if they had any hope of a different life. They need opportunities, they need love and they need to be seen for their strengths and helped to capitalize on them. This is something all of us can help to create. 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]
[Mpls] Police Numbers
I had the interesting experience of doing a ride-along with a police officer last Thursday. It was an eye opening experience. The calls for the 4th Precinct were constant. A few weeks ago, one officer said this precinct is down 40 officers over the past few years. He said that this is an entire shift. For those who suggest that increasing police presence isn't the answer, it seems obvious to me that decreasing police presence certainly hasn't worked either. What happens when you don't have enough police is that the priority rightfully goes on the serious crimes. Yet most criminals begin their career with the lesser crimes first, the livability crimes (truancy, loitering, selling small amounts of marijuana, prostitution). When they aren't caught for these, they go on to try more serious crimes. Think of it as a simple case of plumbing. The police are spending all their time and effort mopping up the water on the floor. There are no resources available to shut off the faucet. It is not a solvable problem as long as there is a steady flow at the input side (misdemeanor crimes). But the problem is larger than that. When they go to wring out their mops, they are provided with buckets that have tubes that feed the water right back to the source. In other words, even when they take people off the streets, the courts let them go. When there are 18- and 19- and 20-year-olds who appear before the judges with 30, 40, even 60 prior arrests in the same area for the same offense and the judge once again gives them a 30-day stayed sentence with the condition that they not commit any same or similar crimes, why should they stop? There is no deterrent. As a parent, most of us know that threatening to ground our children if they don't stop a given behavior has little effect after the 20th time we've said it but never carried it out. That is what is happening here. There have been cases where a young man is arrested twice on the same day for the same offense at a place from which he has been geographically restricted. We need a total solution here that involves all the players. We need to give our kids the best opportunities to become good, positive young adults who are involved in their community in healthy ways. We need to support the parents by providing those opportunities. In Jordan, 60% of families are single parent families. If that parent works, the kids are not going to get as much supervision as they require. If they are a two-parent family, it's likely that both parents work just to stay solvent. Next, when those young people make negative choices, there needs to be immediate and effective consequences. Those consequences may be a restorative justice option or, when that doesn't work, incarceration. We all learn by experiencing the consequences of our choices. When we shield people from the consequences of their actions, we tell them that they can do anything they want to do without any consideration for the result. We teach them short-term thinking. We also are teaching them that no one cares what they do. And perhaps that's the greatest problem of all. When you don't think anyone cares about you, you don't think much about yourself. When you don't think well of yourself, you gravitate to those people and activities where you are going to feel like you belong, where someone cares. Gangs provide that to our youth if we don't provide it first. Dottie 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] Stepped up Police Presence
I hear JSK about his concerns that we will become a police state. Is it better to become a gang state? It may sound excessive to have police checking in with people who seem to be doing innocuous things, but I remember the police reports from two summers ago when they began patrolling on bicycles and stopping bicyclists. It was unbelievable how many RIFLES, including some very high powered ones, they confiscated from bicyclists in our neighborhoods. While we tend to think of gangs as local, that is no longer the truth. I took a one-day training course on gangs last fall and learned some interesting things. Gangs today are national and they are organized like corporations with boards of directors and a very structured organization chart. Some gangs, including one active in Minnesota, has more than 35,000 members nationwide. This is why criminals who commit serious crimes here in Minneapolis are often found in Los Angeles or Chicago where some of the major gangs are headquartered. My point is that we are not up against a group of local kids who have decided to do bad things. In many cases, we are up against strong organizations who funnel money and guns into the local group and who provide protection and transportation to get people away when things get too hot. I'm also mindful of how neighbors can help. Invite younger kids in to do activities with you. Be sure their parents know and give permission. I have a big bunch of Legos at my house, and kids come in and alternate between playing with the Legos and making cookies to take them home to the family. When you reach the younger ones, you also reach the parents. Let's get walking clubs going. There are dealers and prostitutes out until 9 or 10 a.m. during warm weather. How about groups of elders who want some exercise getting together in groups of 4 to 6 to walk and, at the same time, keep an eye on their neighborhoods and provide an added level of protection for the kids waiting for the school bus. Do the same in the afternoon when the kids come home. The drug dealers show up about the time school lets out. Form neighborhood patrols. Did you know that if you walk with an official neighborhood patrol, you have extra protection by law. Assaulting a person who is identifiable as a neighborhood patrol (we wear bright red vests in Jordan) is treated the same as assaulting a police officer. Pay attention to what happens in your neighborhood. Get license numbers and call them in to your neighborhood association or, if you see them acting in a criminal manner, to 911. The other night, I could hear a car engine running outside. It was parked in front of the vacant house next door. I got my binoculars (a MUST for every homeowner here) and checked it out. I got the license number. As I watched, I eventually was able to pick up more identifying information about the car and the person inside. I didn't hide the fact that I was watching. After about 15 minutes, the car decided to leave. He may have been there legitimately (at 1 a.m.?), but if anything should come up later about something happening that night, I have the identifying information that might help. The kind of things that you are willing to do will depend on your fears, your family situation (I'm an almost-60 single woman, so I have less to lose than some), and so on. Find the level that stretches you just a bit. We build courage by challenging our fears. That doesn't mean confronting dangerous people, but it might mean looking out the window to get a description of someone or calling 911 when dealers are working on your street. If all of us stretch beyond our comfort zones, we can accomplish much. Dottie 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] A Story of Courage and Service
For Vanessa, No, I'm not running for office. I was not trying to single her out as someone with super human abilities. I was filled with admiration for her and how she is handling this tragedy, and I wanted both to put a human face on the tragedy and, hopefully, light a bit of a fire under some who talk about what others should do to solve the problem. As you said, she has been active in the community and been the kind of neighbor we all would like to have. She is committed to her community. I believe we all need to be inspired by stories like hers. I apologize, Vanessa, if I somehow offended you in writing this. I did indeed ask her permission to tell the part of her story that I told. She agreed. Dottie On Mar 8, 2005, at 10:22 AM, V.L. Freeman wrote: Hello List! Dottie Titus says: I've found a new friend in my community, someone who is awesome in her courage and commitment. And I can't help asking the question: If this woman, in the midst of her grief, can still want to give back to her community, aren't there others out there who can give just a little more of yourself, of your time, of your resources, to help those in need. Vanessa says: First of all does this mother, whom Ive known for quite some time know that you have done a report about your visit? (Are you running for office too?) Secondly, This mother has been active in the community for many years. Doing what others did not want to, taking care of others children, when they did not take care of their own children. Oh, yes, and as far as Im concerned, this mother is not new to community, the community is new to knowing and finding out about what those of us that do know her has already known for a long time, a very sweet lady, willing to give her all. Innovation, everyday entrepreneurship, and creativity are the aims of collaboration. Vanessa L. Freeman~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] Taking Care of the Least
I think that sometimes officials make decisions in an attempt to be fair or at least to keep their constituents quiet. A case in point is the recent proposal on the CDBG target map. Did any of you notice what was recommended? The basic requirement is, if I remember it correctly, that the neighborhood has to have 50% or more of its residents below a certain poverty level. I have no problem with this. It's the second criteria that is very interesting. The proposal said that the average level of substandard housing per neighborhood in Minneapolis is 3.3%. Three maps of targeted neighborhoods were proposed. All, of course, had to meet the poverty requirement first. Map #1 was all neighborhoods that had 3.3% or more substandard housing. It included 23 neighborhoods. Map #2 was all neighborhoods that had 5% or more substandard housing. It included 15 neighborhoods. Map #3 was all neighborhoods that had 10% or more substandard housing. It included 7 neighborhoods. Guess which map was recommended? You probably guess it: Map #1. This means that the Hiawatha neighborhood with, perhaps, 87 substandard houses gets in the same pool with Jordan, which has at least 267 substandard houses. From a political standpoint, Map #1 makes sense. You are sharing the money among a maximum number of neighborhoods so constituents are relatively happy. From the standpoint of solving the city's problems, Map #1 makes the least sense because it means, if the money is divided equally, that the neighborhoods in the worst category have seen the potential funds diluted by 2/3. That is, instead of being shared among 7 neighborhoods, it is shared among 23. The neighborhoods with the most substandard housing get only 1/3 of what they would if the focus was on fixing their housing first. Am I the only one who thinks it might work better to focus on those neighborhoods with 10% or more substandard housing and get them down to 5% and then focus on the 15 neighborhoods with 5% or more and get them down to 3.3%. Then spread the money out further. It is decisions like these that keep the blighted neighborhoods blighted. This is the gap that never gets closed. 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
RE: [Mpls] A little media disagreement
The stormwater rate is multipled by the number of ESUs (estimated stormwater units) that the property has been assigned. So it most definitely IS possible to have a $37 bump up in fees. In my case, my water bill was $34 a month. The city guessed that I had 2.38 ESUs (it's actually 1.17). They multiplied 2.38 x $8.57 to come up with an increase of $20.39 a month, or an increase of 60% on my water bill. Getting the city to change it is challenging. I called last month and was assured that they would correct it. They insisted, however, that I had to pay the full amount of the incorrect bill or I would be charged a penalty. They promised that I would be credited for the erroneous amount this month. This month, the bill arrived -- for the wrong amount again. And again, I willI have to pay the full amount or be penalized. I hope the city can eventually see its way, after another round of phone calls with me, to get it right. 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
RE: [Mpls] A little media disagreement
Thanks for the clarification, David, but that's not how my bill reads. It said 2.38 ESUs @ $8.72 = $20.75 and added $20.75 to my water bill on this line. Dorothy (Dottie) Titus, Executive Director Jordan Area Community Council 2507 Fremont Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55411 612-529-9267 -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of David Brauer Sent: Friday, April 15, 2005 3:21 PM To: mpls@mnforum.org Subject: Re: [Mpls] A little media disagreement On Apr 15, 2005, at 3:01 PM, Dorothy Titus wrote: The stormwater rate is multipled by the number of ESUs (estimated stormwater units) that the property has been assigned. So it most definitely IS possible to have a $37 bump up in fees. Dorothy's woes are a screw-up in administering the policy, not the policy itself. See: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/stormwater/what-we-do/ SewerStormwaterRateResolution.pdf The city bases its stormwater rate on an $8.72 ESU (it stands for Equivalent Stormwater Unit, by the way). The city gets its three new rates by multiplying the ESU. The low rate is three-quarters of an ESU: 8.72 x . 75 = $6.54 a month The basic rate is one ESU = $8.72 a month The high rate is 1.25 ESUs: 8.72 x 1.25 = $10.90 a month That's as high as the law says it can go for single-family homes. I should also mention that the thrust of my editorial (which won't be online until Monday) is the same as Nick's - the fee is too regressive. My suggestion is to create a higher rate - it's abysmal that the biggest single-family home with the most hard surface in the city would pay only 60 percent more than the smallest home with the least hard surface. I don't have a problem, though, with charging properties with lots of hard surface more for the stormwater sewer upkeep than they've previously paid. Minneapolis is supposedly a progressive city and needs to make this fee more progressive. I'm at the top rate, by the way, and should be. Good luck with the appeal. David Brauer 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 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] Stormwatergate, con't.-The Fraud and Denial Continues
I would like to tell you my experience with the city on this. I posted here right after my first bill about the fact that my water bill went up by $20+, a 60% increase. I called the city and, after some discussion, discovered that my home was shown as a duplex, something that hasn't been true for four years. The city corrected their records (at least they said they have--I won't know until my next bill). It didn't take detailed site plans, only a statement by me that I had looked up the foundation footprint on their web site and measured my garage and driveway. From this, I could tell them the total impervious surface. This is all it took. I do have ONE complaint: They would not let me correct the bill and pay the lesser charge (the city automatically assesses a penalty for not fully paying the bill). I didn't like it (and I know that for some people, paying that extra $20 would be more of a hardship than it is for me), but I paid it. What was really frustrating was to get the next bill four weeks later and to see the wrong total on it, too. When I called about this, I learned that it takes 45 days for the corrections to show up on your bill and, yes, I must pay the extra $20 a second month. I was assured that my water bill would be credited with the excess I paid, so I should get a very low water bill next time. I didn't find the city to be unreasonable. Perhaps it was because I had done my homework and already had the numbers for them, or perhaps I called early enough in this fiasco that they had not yet been inundated with calls. Whatever the reason, my experience was a relatively good one. I do think the city should look into fixing a system that penalizes people for paying the correct amount when an error is made. It should be a simple matter to credit the penalty as well as the erroneous amount when a correct is made. 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
Re: [Mpls] Doug Grow
Tim Connolly wrote: I'm shocked, shocked not to see any defense of the Mayor after he was skewered by Doug Grow. I guess most people on this list plan to hold their noses when they pull the lever. Or do we think the Mayor is truthful when he sidesteps the issue. Say what you will about the stadium but at least Peter McLaughlin has the courage to show his hand while the Mayor waffles. Dottie replies: I'm not sure the mayor was waffling. As I read his words, my impression was that it is not a simple matter. if economic times were different, then things might be different. If the economy were booming and revenues were good, I imagine that many more people would favor a new stadium. In the current times, however, it gives one pause when there is a move to commit millions of public dollars to a new stadium even as we cut tens of thousands of working poor from MinnesotaCare and close public schools. I don't call this waffling but a refreshing dose of realism. 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
RE: [Mpls] Urban Legends
Jeanne Massey wrote: By the 2020s, baby boomleters (kids of baby boomers) will be having kids and likely buying homes in big numbers (though not as big as in their parents' generation), filling in some (but not likely all) those homes built for their parents' generation. Not quite accurate. Baby boomers began life in 1946. That generation runs through 1964 (assuming a generation is 18 years). Our kids have already had their kids, for the most part. Here's a chart: GenerationBornAge 18Age 40 Baby Boomers 1946-1963 1964-1981 1986-2003 Baby Boomleters 1964-1981 1982-1999 2004-2021 Next generation 1982-1999 2000-2017 2022-2039 So the baby boomleters are more likely finished having children by 2020 and their children, in many cases, will also be about done having children. (I couldn't resist jumping into this one because my parents were both in the Army in World War II, met their and were the first American GIs married in occupied Germany. They mustered out at the end of the war, and I was born 9 months later, one of the very first baby boomers--with loads of company. When I went to kindergarten, schools were experiencing the first year of increased enrollment. I was delighted because I was one of six kindergarteners who were moved into a first grade class because there wasn't enough space in kindergarten in my elementary school in St. Paul.) 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
RE: [Mpls] Shoefiti
In response to Ed Kohler's post on trying to get Xcel to remove the shoes hanging over power lines: We have lots of those on the northside, too. My suggested solution is not to take the shoes down but for all of us to visit the thrift stores, buy pairs of shoes, tie the laces together and to throw a pair of shoes over EVERY power line crossing a street. I suspect this isn't legal, but it would make the shoe thing meaningless. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. [NOTE: I'm not really advocating that we do this, but the idea had occurred to me!] On the other hand, I've seen no new shoe locations in the past several months in my neighborhood, so I suspect that now the word is out, the shoes have already lost their purpose as a secret code about drug dealing locations. 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
RE: [Mpls] Please: Think (chatter) Globally/Antipathy and snipe-ing, Dennis
Dyna said: Agreed, it should not be the job of government to provide corporate welfare to bail out businesses that make dumb investments. In the instant case, Ms. LaVanier paid $400,000 in March 2004 for a building with a taxable market value of $284,000. This is a 8 unit building in a distressed neighborhood that probably produces $60,000 a year in rent at best. Following the usual formula of 4 times annual gross for calculating the value of distressed property, this property was worth at most $250,000. Has anyone else noticed that the city assessor placed the 2004 estimated market value of Ms. LaVanier's property at $284,000 and raised it in the 2005 esimated value to $425,000? Those must have been some windows she installed! 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
RE: [Mpls] Redistricting... taking downtown away Money, Power, Respect
Mark, There are many ways the money in a ward benefits the citizens. City Councilpersons have the ability and obligation to look out for their constituents. When Cub came to the Northside, a lot of people talked to them about how important it was that jobs be made available to Northside residents, especially since many jobs were lost when Target moved out. This has resulted in a wonderful partnership between Cub and the local neighborhoods and is giving many residents an alternative to unemployment or under-employment. Cub is also supporting activities in our neighborhoods in a variety of ways. Now look at what has happened since the 5th Ward has lost the money portion of its district. A new stadium is likely along with all the goodies it may bring, and two new upscale stores are in the works. Lofts and fancy dwellings are rapidly being developed. If this area had remained in the 5th Ward, you can be sure that the City Councilperson would have been talking to these new commercial businesses to encourage hiring employees from the 5th Ward. Partnerships would have developed that benefited the Northside neighborhoods. Hopes and dreams take off when opportunities open up. Despair and resentment result when opportunities are taken away. Beyond that, politicians pay attention to those who make contributions to their campaigns. It may not be fair, but campaign contributions are vital. This is another reason why those districts with strong financial resources are likely to be better served. Had the downtown and warehouse section of the previous 5th Ward remained intact, you can be sure that as those expensive lofts were built and inhabited, the residents would have been making it known that their ward needed more attention, more services, whatever the issue was. Because there would be a lot of well-off people who were squawking, who can afford to make campaign contributions, the city would have listened. And in fact, it will listen--but to the districts where that money will now be living. While politicians may empathize with those who cannot afford to contribute to their campaigns, they must pay attention to those with the money. This is not to say that politicians ignore the poor; many do not. But money talks. And right now, I suspect the 5th Ward has the quietest voice in town. I would love to see the numbers for the new wards. I understand that it is illegal to create voting districts that are grossly unbalanced in terms of economics. So far, I haven't seen how the numbers are for the new districts. Anyone have those? 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
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] Press Release for Feeding the Least, Increasing the Peace
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Partnering. to Increase Community Health MINNEAPOLIS, MN - 2nd Annual Feeding the Least.Increasing the Peace - Community Health Awareness Event, August 27, 2005 (10am - 6pm) at Cub Foods, 701 West Broadway, in conjunction with the 1st Anniversary Celebration for Cub Foods within the North Minneapolis neighborhood. The event is co-sponsored by General Mills, Cub Foods, MPPAT, and African American Family Services. Community health has gone unnoticed for too long. Feeding the Least.Increasing the Peace has sought to provide a venue for the community to come together and share information and resources surrounding all health related issues. Poor health is a symptom of the lack of connection to the necessary resources and support for individuals. By not having access, many residents can potentially make decisions that are not beneficial to the overall health of themselves and community. This year our community will have the fortune of having Rubin Hurricane Carter as a Keynote Speaker for the event at 3:30PM. Hurricane has been a champion within the civil rights movement and has dedicated his life to providing a beacon of hope to those whom have lost their way. Rubin Carter has spoken with former President Clinton on issues related to the death penalty, addressed the General Assembly at the United Nations, and has spoken alongside President Nelson Mandela. His insight and wisdom into the realm of health and its relationship to violence will set a foundation for an in-depth dialog amongst our residents. The event will highlight community-based organizations that are working to educate and empower residents to take better care of themselves, physically, mentally and emotionally. Activities will include: * Free food served 11:00am until 3:00pm (healthy menu) * Guest Speakers (Minnesota Supreme Court Justice, Alan Page and Minnesota Attorney General, Mike Hatch) * Youth Scholarship Presentation/Awards * Community-based education and resource booths * Senior activities * Games and prizes for youth * Live Music by RISE, sponsored by the Joe Jones Team of Coldwell Banker Burnet * Live Spoken Word * Community Health Screenings (blood pressure, HIV screening, etc.) As the need for better health care for resident's increases, several community partners have committed to working and partnering with the movement. The community partners for the event include: Jordan Area Community Council, Minneapolis Urban League, North Point Health and Wellness Center, Oasis of Love Church, Holding Forth the Word of Life Ministries, Hawthorne Area Community Council, TCF Bank and City of Minneapolis Empowerment Zone We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, August 27, 2005 at Cub Foods. Contact: Brianna Miller Feeding the Least.Increasing the Peace Contact Number: Fax Number Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 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] PROGESS ON THE EFFORT FOR MORE NORTHSIDE JOBS
Shawn, I attended the Northside Job Connection first anniversary celebration and had an opportunity to talk with some of its participants. My impression is that this is a truly innovative and solid program. Rather than referring their clients to other agencies for some or all of their needs, NJC works with each individual to be sure their needs are met, whether that need is for equipment to get a job, to find a home or to get a drivers license. The people who run the program are caring people who have done an excellent job. I think everyone in the room was deeply touched by the true stories of the participants. Dorothy (Dottie) Titus, Jordan neighborhood 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] Attempts to use NRP for political gain - an integritydeficiency
Thank you, Barb Lickness, for your comments on this. I live in the Jordan neighborhood and I have worked for the neighborhood organization for the past nine months. Prior to that, I was moved to volunteer as a board member which, I guess, would count as citizen participation. For four years, I have been the Cookie Lady in my area, inviting 4-12 children into my house every week to make cookies to take home. That doesn't show up in the statistics at all, but I think it is indeed citizen participation--at least participation in my community in ways that build community. Our neighborhood has struggled for years with how to get greater citizen participation. What do you count as participation? If you count attendance at our monthly community meeting, we have failed miserably. However, there are other measures that may be much more accurate. NRP Phase I funding for improvements, rehab and purchase affected 442 homes in Jordan, or approximately 25% of all the housing. We put up funding for extra police presence because citizens wanted more police on the streets. That affected a large segment of the neighborhood. We have been doing barbecues as an outreach method this summer and have been in touch with roughly 500 residents in that way. We held a 40th anniversary celebration in 2004 which was attended by 500-600 residents. Our outreach coordinator has talked to more than 3,000 people one-on-one in the neighborhood and found jobs for 60-70 youth or more. In all these ways, we have been highly successful. NRP Funding has allowed us to take care of basics and given us the space to be creative in finding the ways that work to connect with our residents. Attendance at meetings is the least productive way to do that. Representatives from the African American community have told me, We don't respond to flyers and attend meetings. We are looking for the one-on-one contact, the personal invitation, the opportunity to build trust. In our outreach to the Hmong residents, we have been told the same thing. So we are adapting our approach to the cultures that live here and learning new ways to hear from our residents. And one-on-one takes time when the neighborhood population numbers 9,000 and you have 3 people working in the organization. I have begun to realize how arrogant we are when we insist that everyone in a neighborhood must follow the white tradition and respond in the required fashion (get a flyer--attend a meeting) so the numbers can be counted. I have made more personal and deeper connections with folks in my neighborhood by stepping outside of that frame. Dorothy (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
Re: [MPLS] Lots of information on the upcoming Park Board races
I have read some of the posts about the Park Board's purchase of the new headquarters on West River Road in the Hawthorne neighborhood. I can understand some of the objections. However, on a purely personal and feeling-level, I must say that I really like having it here on the Northside. We have few if any real centers or headquarters here. The building is beautiful, and the landscaping and statuary is such a breath of fresh air for us here on the Northside. Every time I walk into that building, I am aware of a longing for more of that kind of enterprise and esthetic on the Northside. When I walk out to the the parking lot and see the statues, I feel a sense of peace that I don't get in many places in these neighborhoods. The Park Board also graciously makes its conference rooms available for public meetings, and we had a wonderful board retreat in their building not long after it opened. It was comfortable, nicely furnished, and we enjoyed the space immensely. So...it may have been an unwise investment (I cannot judge that). Perhaps it could have been done somewhere else in the city or county cheaper. But I like it, and I like it that something as central as the Park Board has chosen to be headquartered in one of our poorest and most impacted neighborhoods. It brings a sense of hope to me and perhaps to others. And its location near the Mississippi River feels exactly right. 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
Re: [Mpls] Justice Du Jour
Mark said: A large metro area needs user-friendly, cost-effective public transit, but to assign the word 'justice' to that goal is a very big stretch. It implies that that public transit is an entitlement, and the tax base (collective) needs to accomodate the needs in the name of 'justice'. It also suggests, I think, an underlying belief that nobody should ever be inconvenienced or have to solve problems on their own. Not being able to match bus schedules or LRT routes to your personal needs does not rise to the level of oppression. I wonder if that was the thinking in New Orleans as well. It certainly resulted in an oppressive situation for the poor who did not have cars and could not reach the buses to evacuate. But perhaps they should have thought about that inconvenience in advance and tried to solve the problem on their own by some creative means. Cities nearly always have a certain population that do not own cars either for convenience or because they cannot afford to. In my neighborhood, 21% of those in the workforce used public transportation to get to work (2000 census). 27% of the population lives below the poverty line. Public transportation is important. Certainly, it is not a right. However, since it is PUBLIC transportation, it needs to serve the public fairly. When significant geographic areas of the city have come to rely on bus service, changes in service need to take into account the impact it will have. People buy their homes or live in areas based on the amenities that are available that are important to them. It is not easy to sell your house or give up your home and find a new location where bus service matches your work schedule. And it's really hard on the kids. Here's a radical idea: We have a $.50 downtown zone fare on Metro Transit that allows people to ride the bus anywhere in downtown for a really cheap price. Why can't we have a neighborhood zone fare like that in poor areas where people must use public transportation to run local errands near their home? Is it really fair to charge downtown residents and workers $.50 for a short ride while we make those in poor neighborhoods pay $1.25 to do their grocery shopping? Dottie Titus Jordan neighborhood 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] aol
I must correct a number of errors in Mr. Halfhill's post about aol. I lived and worked in that area for 35 years. First, Dulles and Langley are 10-15 miles apart. Second, Langley does not provide a residence to the thousands of CIA employees. Most of them cannot afford to live in the area where homes cost in the millions of dollars. Robert F. Kennedy's home is/was just about a mile away from the CIA Headquarters. Most CIA employees live in the far suburbs where government salaries can still purchase a house. There are a lot of employees who commute for more than 90 minutes each way and who live in places like West Virginia; Fredericksburg, VA; and Hagerstown and Columbia, MD. The internet, in the 70s, was known as DARPAnet. DARPA was the Defense Advanced Research Projects A. ( I'm not sure what the A stood for). Members of DARPA were, besides government agencies, many Ivy League colleges. I got into computers as a programmer in the 70s, and I can remember some of us (government employees) logging onto the net to play games at the MIT site because they had the best games. I think the Universities were involved because they were helping develop this new technology that has become so useful to us today. As far as Dulles being the corporate headquarters of AOL: There is a corridor that runs from the Washington, DC, suburbs around Falls Church to Dulles Airport. It is known as the Dulles corridor, and it is the Silicon Valley of the DC area. It is filled with high tech companies, so AOL being headquartered there is no big deal. Other companies in that area with a large presence include General Electric, TRW, SRA, Lockheed-Martin, and many, many more. WorldCom was headquartered there in Herndon. In the middle of the corridor is Reston, VA, one of the first new towns created from scratch and a model for many other new towns built after that. The internet was not begun by AOL. Before AOL was Compuserve and Prodigy, all PC-based. Those of us who used Macintosh computers were very frustrated by the inattention paid to Macs. Then AOL came along. It was developed on and for Macintosh users but supported PC capabilities. Over the past 5-7 years, AOL forgot about its Macintosh roots and has moved much more strongly into the PC market. It used to be that the Mac upgrade always came out first, followed by the PC version a year or so later. Not any more. Not only did AOL forget its Mac roots. It has forgotten its USA roots. All customer service is now handled out of India, primarily New Delhi. It's why I cancelled my AOL membership after 10 years. When things went wrong, I could only speak to people in India who kept saying, No problem, but could not do anything to solve the problems I was experiencing. AOL did not create a suburb called Dulles. Those of us who lived near Dulles Airport always used that term to refer to the outer ring of suburbs such as Sterling, Herndon, Chantilly. It is a shorthand way of referring to the area, much like we refer to Northeast to mean Northeast Minneapolis. According to the article quoted, Lydia Howell did most of her research in the encyclopedia and the internet and then made some rather large assumptions, trying to find something scary to report. It's obvious she hasn't lived or worked in the area and really does not know the area at all. Dottie Titus, Jordan neighborhood 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] Progressive taxes: Income vs Wealth
Last Sunday, Greg Cavanagh had an opinion piece, Why punish the rich for good choices? in the Star Tribune. I was outraged at the way he ascribed all good attributes to the wealthy and all negative ones to the poor. I wrote the following piece in response, which was not published. It bears on the discussion of income vs. wealth, so I thought I would share it here: Mr. Cavanagh's Counterpoint Why punish the rich for good choices? is a simplistic piece of writing that divides society into two categories: (1) wealthy, well-educated, generous, hard-working people, and (2) poor, lazy, uneducated people on welfare. It has some major errors. Mr. Cavanagh says that wealthy people are less likely to take up the time of police officers, prosecutors, public defenders, judges and prison guards. Yet when wealthy people commit crimes or take advantage of the system, the magnitude and impact tends to be far greater than what the poor can accomplish. Think, for example, about Enron, WorldCom, Haliburton and others who have bilked citizens of billions of dollars in savings and retirement investments. The guy on the corner dealing drugs can't compare. The wealthy can indeed accomplish great things with their wealth, and society often benefits. At the same time, they frequently take from the very poorest for their own gain. As reported in Business Week about the 365 largest companies in the U.S.: The ratio of CEO pay to factory worker pay was 44 to 1 in 1965. In 1997, it was 326 to 1. The magnitude of this is hard to see in percentages, so let's look at real numbers: In 1965, minimum wage was $1.25 per hour and average CEO pay at these companies averaged $55 an hour. In 1997, minimum wage was up to $5.15 per hour and CEO pay at these companies averaged $1,679 an hour. In other words, the worker at the low end of the pay scale today is making a little more than 4 times what he would have made in 1965 while the CEO is making more than 30 times the salary he would have made in 1965. We have seen a huge increase in American jobs being sent overseas. We are told that it is because wage costs are lower overseas. Here's an interesting tidbit: If the pay proportion from 1965 had remained the same, today's CEO would be earning $227 an hour and the extra $1,452 per hour of CEO pay could have funded another 282 jobs at the low end of the scale. Multiply that by the 365 companies in the study, and that money would have kept almost 103,000 jobs here in the U.S. Yes, 103,000 jobs saved by just 365 CEOs getting no more than 44 times the increase in pay given to the lowest paid workers in their companies. In truth, the job savings would have been far larger because all of the jobs in between the lowest paid and the CEO have also gone up faster than the minimum wage increases. When CEO salaries climb so disproportionately to what the average worker gets, then yes, I believe taxing the wealthy at a higher level is warranted. After all, their income is going up at a much faster rate; why shouldn't their taxes? Today, the wealthy pay a much smaller percentage of their income in taxes than those at the lower end of the economic scale. Paying 10% of a $50,000,000 income is far less painful than paying 10% of $20,000 for the person trying to hang on to a home and keep up with rising property taxes (8-24% rise per year), rising fuel costs (30-50% per year) and all the new fees that have been implemented in the past few years. But then, only those of us in the middle or low end of the scale actually pay 10% of their income in taxes. For the wealthy, it is substantially less. 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
